Thank you and other things

First of all I have to say thank you. If there is anything more overwhelming than a cancer diagnosis, it's the amount of love I've felt from the people who care about me. For that I can't thank you enough. I wrote the last post because I selfishly needed to get it out of my system. You responded in the most wonderful and generous way.

I found this, (which is an approximation of a quote by a chap called Og Mandino)...

I love the light because it shows me the way, yet I endure the darkness because it shows me the stars.

I'm not usually one for deep and meaningful quotes but that (and some others that you have sent me) have resonated. The week I was diagnosed I think I was in shock. I sat in the garden and I swear the sun was brighter, the trees were greener, the air smelled sweeter, the shout of 'Mom!' pulled more on my heartstrings than ever. I felt as though I noticed every tiny thing about life and nature, every birdsong, every bright petal on every plant. Everything was heightened. It's hard to explain, but it was as though life had suddenly turned the volume up to the max and it was deafening.

But you must know that I'm not one for moping about. The shock has subsided and life marches on in many new and exciting directions. I have a project in mind that I will work on during my treatment. I hope that you will support me with it if you can. I am working on getting it set up now and will let you know what I've been dreaming up as soon as possible.

In between times I have not been lounging around too much. I've sewn quite a lot including this assortment of clothes...


First up this jacket, which because of the heatwave I've not worn once. Part lined with this nice soft collar/lapel I think it will be quite wearable once the weather cools down a bit. It's a pattern by Sew to Grow. I've done it in a lightish-weight denim with a fine cotton lining. I found setting in the sleeves was a pain, I'm so used to sewing in sleeves flat. I'm sure if I had a bit more patience they would have turned out better. I found the shoulders quite wide on me so I did a little adjustment which perhaps altered things.


The heatwave also dictated that shorts were required. These two pairs were made from fabric in the stash and were a big hit. So much so that she and I went online and ordered this little selection. Since then two more pairs have been made in the 'bees' and 'sausage dogs'. I do love making kids' clothes. They hardly need any fabric and these are working out at about £1.50 a pair. Can't argue with that! The shorts are an Ottobre pattern and like everything I've sewn by them, went together like a dream. You can literally have a pair of these cut out, sewn, pressed and on in half an hour. Give or take, depending on your helper! 


I needed new summer trousers so have done these two. I will have to get someone to take a photo of me wearing the black pair, I could only manage an ankle shot on my own! Nicknamed my clown trousers, they are super-comfortable in this weather. Course you don't have to elasticate the ankle if you're not in the mood for walking round like a genie escaped from its bottle. Another Ottobre pattern and very fast to sew, just two different pattern pieces and a quick method for popping in the waist elastic. (I'll have to show you that at some point).


Catch up again very soon.

Love Laura
xx

Comments

  1. I’m so sorry to hear your diagnosis but pleased to hear that your wonderful positivity and love of life is still there. Like many others we have never met but Design Matters has made a huge input to my life and I really appreciate your and Linda’s generous and open teaching.
    Pleased to hear too that you have a new project in mind and can’t wait to hear about it.
    All the very best XX

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  2. I love the jacket. I've always been fond of pin striped fabric. Perhaps longing for the seersucker and gingham of my childhood? I can't get over how grown up Amelie looks with her hair up - adorable! The genie in the bottle pants are favorites of mine. They are so comfortable. The quote hit home for me. I am so excited about the prospect of a new project with you. Looking forward to hearing all about it. Our heat hit this week, so I spent yesterday printing pages with marks and today I'll start putting together some sketchbooks for myself and friends. Listen to your body and rest when needed. We are all rooting for you. Hugs.

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  3. They all look lovely. Really like the trousers. Can’t beat a slip on and lounge or potter outfit.

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  4. Great! I love the sentence: "I have a project in mind...." Can't wait to hear more about it.
    Meanwhile, keep up the good spirit.

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  5. Glad you hear you are being positive! But we all knew you would be!!! We are behind you!!

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  6. Sooooo glad to her that the darkness has ben taken over by the LIGHT! And yes, we have life altering challenges and yes, the human brain is magical and if we really just open up to the possibilities, and celebrate rather than aggravate the demons, the days will be filled with wonder! I am so very proud of you and we have never met - feeling like you are a daughter though and I am sending along a cyber HUGG!!! Bethany (Loving the sewing Laura!)

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  7. Dear Laura, I am very happy to hear that you are thinking of new projects, as it shows that you are looking positively into the future. You know, DMTV has already given me so much joy - at this point I would like to thank you from the bottom of my heart :-) Right now I'm quilting the "Stencilled Iris" that you recently put into the archive.
    Whatever you decide on therapy, I hope you get well again and can eventually live without a doctor's check-up! An advice as a long-time nurse in oncology home care: Always listen to yourself and do something good for yourself, just for you.
    Too bad we can not get to know each other at the Festival of Quilts. I decided to visit you at the exhibition this year finally and bought a flight ticket at the same time as your diagnosis ...
    In the end, I visit it anyway, but will miss you... Your topic was really amazing.
    I send you big big hugs!
    Love, Gabi

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  8. Your positivity is inspirational! Good to hear that there is a 'project in mind' too. And what beautiful clothes you have made...lucky little Amelie who looks just adorable. I think some little friends might come knocking on your door too xxx

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  9. This is such an amazing site! I really enjoyed reading the content. Thanks!

    Designer Lehenga For Kids

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  10. Laura we have just found yours and your mum's site they are wonderful. We are sure that you will stay strong throughout this challenging time.
    You are very talented. All we can say to you is on your dark days just smile that wonderful smile you have and the sun will shine through the dark clouds.xx

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