My Name is Sarah

A Call from Texas

2012-01-26T12:09:00.000-05:00

This is me waiting...

I'm about to talk to Noah's Dad...

My mom forgot to turn the speaker on at first but I was listening. Rick is going to take Noah to see Disney on Ice when he gets bigger. I think he will like it.

Forgiveness

2012-01-21T09:46:00.002-05:00

Dare to Dream

2012-01-16T23:43:00.004-05:00

Guess where we went today?

It was my mom's annual birthday treat.

This year Matt and Jessica went with us.

Maybe this will give you a clue?

Now you have to know. Disney on Ice.

This year's show was Dare to Dream. It featured Princess and the Frog...

Can you guess this one?

Cinderella!!! And Tangled.

It was an awesome show. We had a very good time.

Meet Noah and his Dad

2012-01-10T21:21:00.000-05:00

YOU must watch this. Noah is soooooooooooo cute!!!

Look Out Below

2012-01-06T15:46:00.000-05:00

We had a sale last week at the quilt shop and we sold a lot of fabric.

Look at all these empty bolts. We had a contest over on the store blog to see if people could guess how many were stacked up.

Yesterday we numbered all of them and guess what, we had a winner. Just as we were about to leave last night my mom asked me how high I could reach. So I showed her. And then I heard her scream, "Sarah don't touch it."

Too late. They all came tumbling down. Right. On. My. Head. Ouch!! But it didn't really hurt. We laughed. Then we really laughed. Until we realized my mom was trapped in the stairwell down below. And we were the only people left in the building. I had to start digging her out. Then she fell onto the empty bolts when she was trying to climb out. That's when we started laughing so hard I could hardly catch my breath.

You just never know what my mom and me are going to do next...

Bye Bye Sippy Cup

2012-01-05T00:01:00.001-05:00

Twenty years ago today...

Happy Birthday TJ

2012-01-03T00:01:00.005-05:00

Today is my big brother's birthday.

Julie had a party for him with a chocolate cake and candles.

I got to go. It was fun.

Julie is a good cook. Happy birthday TJ!!!

Happy New Year

2011-12-31T09:41:00.002-05:00

Twenty years ago today...

Brutus on My Head

2011-12-30T22:21:00.000-05:00

My mom gave me a box to open. She said it was from Aimee who works at our quilt store. So I opened it. You will never believe this...

Haaa...I LOVE it!!!! Thank you Aimee. I never had Brutus on my head before.

We Wish You A Merry Christmas...

2011-12-25T23:23:00.000-05:00

from Sarah and Bonnie...

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Christmas Morning

2011-12-25T13:06:00.000-05:00

Twenty Years Ago Today...

Christmas Eve

2011-12-24T23:28:00.000-05:00

Twenty Years Ago Today...

Dinner with my Big Brother

2011-12-23T23:49:00.000-05:00

Tonight I went to my big brother's apartment for dinner.

It is really nice. He even has a real Christmas tree.

He has a big screen tv and he let me watch the Disney channel.

Julie made dinner. It was really good. She cut up carrots for us to eat with our pizza. My favorite.

If you look really close you might see a few quilty things from our store. Well it is time for me to go home. My mom came to pick me up. TJ is doing laundry in his new washing machine.

On the way home my mom said she had somewhere she wanted to take me. We stopped in front of this house and all of a sudden the lights started dancing. It was really cool. Watch this...

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A Day in My Life

2011-12-22T00:35:00.000-05:00

So I thought I would show you what I did today.

First I had some mail waiting for me when I got to the store. I love mail.

Look at this cute card. It is from Michelle in Tempe, Arizona. She follows our blogs. Hi Michelle!!

Look at this card. "Mom," I said in my are you kidding me voice. "You never told me I could have my picture taken with Minnie and Mickey Mouse for our Christmas card." And now I am kinda mad at you.

But it is so cute I could not stay mad for long. It is from sweet Ella. She is my little friend who was really sick this year with cancer. We hate cancer. But she is doing so much better now!!!

Then I had a package waiting for me from one of our customers.

Wow!!! Look how cute this is. It even has an S for Sarah. Hey that's me. Thank you Cathi. I love it!!!

I decided I better model it so everyone can see how cute it is. I am going to put my cell phone and ipod in it. Haaa look how well it matched the outfit I picked out to wear today. It's perfect.

Then I had to go upstairs to my new desk. Do you know I have my very own desk and computer now.

I am suppose to be working. But today the rest of the office left for a holiday luncheon. So I decided I was going to watch Disney on Ice videos on You Tube instead. I am really super smart when it comes to finding videos to watch. Ok see ya later.

Greatest Teachers of All

2011-12-20T23:51:00.001-05:00

Grandpa's Tall, Not Me

2011-12-18T23:02:00.000-05:00

My little brother Matt is catching up to my Grandpa. Not me.

All Dolled Up

2011-12-14T23:30:00.000-05:00

Twenty years ago today...

I'm going to church with Grandpa.

Celebrating Ashton

2011-12-10T19:53:00.000-05:00

This is a video about Ashton. It was her shining moment where she showed the world how awesome she is.

Ashton is fighting for her life tonight. The doctors are not giving her family much hope. Prayers are needed for their strength and for a miracle. Keep fighting my friend.

From the Jar to the Card

2011-12-07T23:33:00.000-05:00

I opened a Christmas card today. It is from a really nice family.

This year they have three boys in the picture. But next year...

Katie will go from being on the jar to being on the card. That is exciting!!! And today they got some really good news. Their dossier has been delivered in Katie's country. Which means they will be traveling soon to see her.

Oh do you see the jar. Remember when I was counting money a few weeks ago. Well look at the jar already. It is almost full again. And there is more green money too. Thanks to our wonderful customers. You can help too by going to their blog and making a donation if you can.

Hoppin' Across the World

2011-12-04T20:49:00.001-05:00

A package arrived...

all the way from South Africa. Really?

Looks like it went through London too. I wonder if the new Princess saw it:)

Look at this!!! It even had to clear customs.

I wonder what is in here?

OMG!!! It has big ears. And a really cute hat.

Can you believe it!!! This bunny hopped all the way across the world. Even the ocean.

Seriously. How cute is this!!! Floppy and Hoppy. I named them.

They are going to be just perfect for our display in the front room. Want to see...

The bunnies have been sweetly stitched by Leigh-Ann & Bev in the same fabric we have. All the way over in Johannesburg, South Africa. Thank you.

First Snowfall

2011-11-30T10:51:00.000-05:00

"Surprise," my mom said. There is snow on the ground. Yikes. I had to find my boots.

Even though I have them on I do not like to get them wet. So I balance walking on the curb.

Taa daa. I made it and safely protected the cookies in my hand at the same time. What kind do you think they are?

Uhh ohh. Looks like someone is getting a speeding ticket. Over there.

When Girls Grow Up

2011-11-25T07:15:00.005-05:00

Last night my friend Stacy came over. As soon as I saw her I told her congratulations. I had been practicing that word all week.

Stacy and Adam just got engaged. I am so happy for them. I like Adam. He plays jarts with me.

Stacy showed me her ring. It is beautiful. And shinny.

And then Stacy said she wanted to ask me something.

She wants me to be a bridesmaid in her wedding!!! At first I said no. Because that is how I answer just about every question. Then we decided I would watch a few shows like Seventh Heaven and Gilmore Girls that have weddings in them to see what I need to do. Then she told me her sisters Lisa and Kelly and her friend Alex from down the street would also be bridesmaids. So I said yes.

Is this so exciting?!!! My mom cried. She was so happy for Stacy and so touched that she asked me to be in her wedding. Stacy is coming home again for Christmas and we are going to lunch.

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T00:10:00.001-05:00

TJ and me ~ 1993

Sweet Dreams Baby Iris

2011-11-21T18:34:00.000-05:00

Iris Catherine Palma

7/7/2010 ~ 11/20/2011

In our hearts forever

Hugs and prayers to your family

My BFF

2011-11-19T21:33:00.000-05:00

Twenty Years Ago Today...

Stacy and me.

Bestest friends.

Late Breaking News Flash...

He asked and she said YES!!! My BFF is getting married:) Congratulations to Stacy and Adam!!!!

Lots of Coins for Katie

2011-11-17T00:31:00.002-05:00

We have the best customers at the quilt store. Do you remember this post? We decided we wanted to help collect coins to bring Katie home. There was even a post about it on Katie's blog. She is so cute:)

It has been one month and look at this jar. It is almost over the top. It had some green money in it too. My mom already put that into a special envelope because one of them was a $50.00 bill. Can you believe it!!!

So we decided it was time to count the coins.

First I dumped them all out on the tray.

Then I started sorting the coins into piles.

Sometimes I picked them up and sometimes I moved them around with my finger.

So far there are a lot of quarters and dimes. Stay tuned for the counting part...

Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-09T23:58:00.000-05:00

Twenty Years Ago Today...

Wildwood

2011-11-06T20:34:00.000-05:00

Today was the Wildwood Quilt Show in Mentor, Ohio. I had to get up really early because we had to get the display set up before the show started.

I had a chair right next to our table. I was in charge of the calculator, the money and the bags. While I was sitting there I saw a lot of people I know. One time I nudged my mom and said, "Hey look who's here? It's Aimee." She works in our store sometimes. Then I saw Stacy's Grandma and Grandpa.

I had lunch in the private vendor's dining room. That's where all the shop owners get to eat. They had turkey subs for us to eat. I love turkey subs. I stayed in there all by myself because I know so many of the people now.

Then I went back to our booth. While I was gone they turned the fans on and it was freezing in there. So you know what I did? I whipped a quilt right off the table and wrapped it around my shoulders. Now I'm a quilt model. LOL!!! It was a very good day.

Worth Your Time

2011-11-04T23:57:00.000-04:00

Helping Heidi come Home

2011-11-03T08:11:00.010-04:00

We have a lot of fun samples in our quilt shop. People are asking all the time to buy them. So far we haven't sold any. We have been trying to figure out what to do with them once the fabric collection they are made out of is gone. Then we had a request come in asking if we had something we could offer for a craft show that would be helping to raise money to bring Heidi home.

Of course we said yes. Look how sweet Heidi is. My mom says that could be me when I was little.

So I got busy gathering up some cute items from around the store. I knew just the perfect things too.

The bibs and burb cloths made out of Kate Spain's Central Park. They have really cute animals on them. I also picked a stuffed ball and a cuddly block with a rattle inside. My mom picked some more bibs and a cute quilt made out of Sunkissed by Sweetwater.

I carefully put them all in bags to keep them clean and dry. Then I packed them into a big box.

Next I wrote a little note. I like writing notes. There is a little surprise on the back of the card. I'm not going to tell you what it is though because one day I might be sending you a note:)

If you would like to read more about the family who is adopting Heidi click here. They may also be giving more details about the craft show in the future.

Clowning Around

2011-10-31T10:51:00.000-04:00

Twenty Years Ago Today...

I was a clown for Halloween.

My mom made this costume for us.

Hey, where is my other eye?

I decided I did not like to go trick or treating. I was scared of the costumes. So I just played on my slide in the house.

I am still scared of clowns. Which means I am scared of ME!!! Happy Halloween everybody:)

A New Do

2011-10-30T23:59:00.001-04:00

I decided it was time for a hair cut. I always get nervous when they start putting my hair up in clips.

I said I wanted just a little trim.

Sometimes Marci makes me laugh.

Can you see the back? Just a little trim, right?

Voila!! What do you think?

I love it!!!

My Little Brother

2011-10-28T23:55:00.004-04:00

My little brother is fifteen today. And he is a whole foot taller than I am. Actually he is taller now than everyone in my family. Except my Grandpa Hillick. He is 6 ' 4" tall. Matt might catch up to him. We were going to go to the Olive Garden for dinner. Actually we did, but it was way too crowded. Matt just wanted to get to Game Stop to pick up a new set of head phones so he can talk to his friend in California when they are playing games. He is on that game system all the time. I guess that's what teenage boys do. Happy Birthday Matt.

Making Cake

2011-10-25T21:50:00.000-04:00

I just decided to make a cake. A chocolate cake.

Holding this mixer gives me strong muscles.

Look who's here to eat some batter.

Dad stop eating my chocolate cake.

Oh ya this is good. Really, really good.

Sibling Love

2011-10-22T20:33:00.000-04:00

Twenty Years Ago...

Down Syndrome in the Ukraine

2011-10-20T22:47:00.003-04:00

by Joyce: A quick request. If you are reading this and have adopted a child with Down syndrome from the Ukraine, will you please call me at the quilt store on Friday @ 440-684-9830. I would love to hear about your experience.

A friend of a friend of a friend, has an international house guest this week who is from the Ukraine. She is a teacher and has a son with Down syndrome. She recently started a program in her homeland for parents who are raising their child with Down syndrome. This friend thought I might be a good person to talk to since I have experience in the not-for-profit world and a daughter with Down syndrome. What she did not know is I have had the privilege of getting to know so many of you who have had experience in the Ukraine.

On a tiny side note...the woman who is hosting the dinner sent me directions to her place today. She lives in The Waterford on the coast of Lake Erie. The same building I lived in. The one John and I had our wedding reception in the party room a short twenty five years ago. I have not been been back there since August 1986. I'm thinking there's more to this plan than I know right now. I wonder if that's By Chance or By Design?

UPDATE: Thank you to everyone who tried to call and left messages. I appreciate the quick response. I had such a wonderful evening with Olena. She is an amazing woman and trail blazer for kiddos with Down syndrome in her country. I will post more soon.

The Girls on Mini Street

2011-10-13T22:13:00.001-04:00

OMG!!! I rocked out to this song one hundred million times when I was younger. Lisa and Stacy and I would dance to it all the time:)

Turns out this is Christa Collins singing. She is one of the final 32 contestants on The X Factor. Go Christa!!! I'm cheering her on to win.

Together Forever

2011-10-10T15:23:00.004-04:00

Carly Elizabeth George

1/2/02 ~ 4/23/10

Bradley Paul George

11/4/89 ~ 10/8/11

Let their lights be forever in our hearts. And our deepest thoughts for strength and uplifting presence be with Joany, Paul & Ashleigh and their extended family.

Let's Go Brutus

2011-10-06T00:47:00.000-04:00

Hey Brutus, I have something to show you.

I think you will like it.

Oh my gosh this sun is so bright.

That's better. Ok hang on we have to go for a ride.

Well Brutus...what do you think?...

The State Fair

2011-10-03T01:53:00.000-04:00

Ten Years Ago...

My Girl Scout Troop 1977 went to the Ohio State Fair.

We were going to march in the parade and I was going to carry this flag. So I had to practice.

Time for the parade to begin.

Do you see me? I was doing a really good job.

As we were rounding the bend, Mrs. Maddox pulled up beside me with the wheelchair so I could make it the rest of the way. I had been really sick that summer.

Hey no fair. Look where my mom got to ride. She had the bag with all the emergency medical equipment with her. Just in case, but we never had to use it.

After the parade we went into the arts & crafts barn and helped lead some craft activities.

We also entered our scrapbooks into the exhibit. Everyone received a ribbon.

Late that night, we got to hang out on the midway. We are looking at jewelry. Some of my friends bought some to take home.

While we were walking around the fair it started to rain really hard. We got soaked. It was fun.

Look at me. I am so wet. But I did not care. My mom let me buy this dolphin. It lite up like a flashlight.

That night I slept with it. We got to sleep in the bunk house that the people training to become State Highway patrol officers stay in. That was fun.

The next day we got to go on the fair rides. Here I am with Jessica and Kelly. I was a little scared.

Then we went on the merry-go-round. I really liked that one.

Then my friends wanted to go on this really fast one. I was scared. So my mom went with me.

But then she was screaming louder than me.

Next stop was bumper cars. I liked driving my own car.

We even went through the fun house. The floor made really funny noises.

Then we went into some barns. Look at the little baby chicks. That's the other Sarah holding one. And Nina and Jennifer.

Oh cool. A corn maze.

I can climb this corn. I know I can.

Almost to the top. Don't look down. Oh wait, it looks like I did.

Coming down was harder than going up.

Time to head back to the dorm for dinner. My friends took turns pushing me so I would not get worn out.

I love dinner time. My favorite was the hot dog and french fries.

Posing for a picture in front of the Girl scout sign.

Time for a little fun.

Looks like I'm the Congo line leader.

One final picture in front of the big red bird. The cardinal is the state bird of Ohio. That was a fun trip to the Ohio State Fair.

Coins for Katie

2011-10-01T22:01:00.000-04:00

Look what we have on our counter at the store...

a Coins for Katie jar and it is almost half full already. Katie is so cute and she is living in an orphanage right now. Her forever family is working hard to raise money to bring her home. So we thought we would help too. You can read all about her family on their blog. Our goal is to have the jar full by the end of the week. I think we can do it.

Seventy Six is a Magic Number

2011-09-28T23:56:00.003-04:00

76. Seventy six. SEVENTY SIX days. That's how long it took for the Mission iPossible team to...

reach their goal of getting iPads into the hands of the children promised them. And no matter how you celebrate. That is worth a 76 trombone salute!!! Please go leave Ken, Heather and the whole Mission iPossible team some much deserved praise!!!!!!! And then take a look at the photos coming in. Just look at the smiles and the twinkle in the eyes of the kiddos.

Kuddos and High Fives

2011-09-26T21:01:00.000-04:00

to my bff Lisa. Look at her. Doesn't she look great. She just ran in her very first marathon ever for Team OutRun Diabetes. She has been working very hard to do this. Yea Lisa!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Who Let the Dogs Out?

2011-09-25T23:14:00.000-04:00

Ruff, ruff. Who let the dogs out? Hey how about my Brownies??!!!!!

Cleveland Browns ~ 17

Miami Dolphins ~ 16

Quilts and Reece's Rainbow

2011-09-17T22:59:00.002-04:00

How grateful we are to have another story on an international website. This one is on Quilts, Inc. That's the group that hosts the big quilt convention that I went to last May in Salt Lake City and Polly, Kristen's mom went with us. You can read the story here. It talks about my quilt project for the kiddos coming home through Reece's Rainbow. So I thought I would show you what I do.

This is really the last part of making the quilt. I have to put the binding on.

I very carefully pin it.

I have to make sure the edges match up perfectly. Then I sew it on the machine.

Next I write a little note.

All done. This one is going to Kirill. We were praying for him. His adoption took a little extra time because the judge first said no. But his family did not give up and appealed the decision and then they got to go back to Russia to bring him home. You can read about the journey on their blog.

Oh wait, I think I will add a smiley face. I sure hope he likes it. I picked one with cute dogs and cats on it. The fabric is call Max & Whiskers by Basic Grey for Moda.

Guess what?

Kirill loves it!!!!

We sent two pillow cases. One for Kirill and one for his brother. Are they so cute:) The pillowcases we make in memory of Kristen Ann Kirton. One more happy day!!!

Eating Crayons

2011-09-14T00:28:00.000-04:00

Twenty Years Ago...

Lisa is here. It must be afternoon. She would come watch us after she got out of school so my dad could get some work done. When she wasn't here, I could get into a little trouble. Like...

coloring on the kitchen floor...

and eating crayons. Yuk!!! Silly me:)

Visitors From Afar

2011-09-13T00:47:00.000-04:00

We have had some rocking visitors come to see me in the store recently. First was Michelle.

Oh my gosh. She was so nice. She lives in Gilbertsville, New York but her parents live not too far from the store. When she read our story in the quilting magazine and saw our address on Mayfield, she recognized that road as the exit she gets off the freeway when she comes to visit them. She came to see me twice before she left to go back home. She had no way of knowing this, but it turns out my mom used to spend her summers in the Village of Sidney, just a short distance from where Michelle lives. She is going to come back to see us again.
.

And then I met Betty. You will never believe where she is from.

Scotland. Like Scotland. The country way over on the other side of the spinner ball. That's the globe. She has been following our blogs too. How cool is this!!! She came with her friends.

Hi Robina, Betty and Pat

Pat lives in West Salem, Ohio. I know just where that is because it is where I get off the freeway to ride the train at the outlet mall with my grandpa. One day I am going to go visit Pat. She is a hoot. A hooty, hoot, hoot:) I don't think I will be able to go visit Robina and Betty though. They live too far away. So I will just wave to them~~~~~~~~~~~~~:)

Thank you visitors.

We Will Never Forget

2011-09-11T12:01:00.000-04:00

To believe

in the promise of a better tomorrow,

and stand united in our efforts

to give a peaceful nation

to our children...

To honor

each other's differences

and cherish the richness of our history,

even as it continues to unfold

from sea to shining sea

To love

deeply our friends and family,

day by day,

and never take for granted

the privilege of calling ourselves American.

Matt, Sarah & TJ ~ September 2001

Got Netflix?

2011-09-07T01:01:00.000-04:00

"Sarah, Is that you? What are you doing down here so late?"

"Nothing Mom."

"What are you watching Sarah?"

"Nothing Mom."

"What is in your hand Sarah?"

"Nothing Mom"

"Turn the light off Mom."

"Oh my gosh Sarah. You are addicted to Netflix."

"No Mom."

"You are Sarah"

"No Mom"

"OK show me how it works..."

Make a video - it's fun, easy and free!
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OMG Brutus

2011-09-03T23:44:00.007-04:00

What is Brutus doing...

...in the ice freezer? LOL!!! I think that is the Akron Zip with him. It was really, really hot at the game. TJ and Julie were there. They were crispy by the end. I watched it with my dad on the television. It was much cooler that way.

Now I have a little trivia for all you Buckeye fans. You know the new assistant coach, Mike Vrabel? His mom was the prinipal at my high school. Yep. When my friend Stacy won an award for being my bestest friend, Mrs. Vrabel called us both up to the podium. Cool. Maybe I will see her at a game this year. Go Bucks!!!

Working Hard for My Money

2011-08-31T23:14:00.000-04:00

I've been working in my dad's office the last two days.

One of the doctor's he does billing for is retiring. So we are sending a letter to all his patients.

If you need labeling done, I'm your go to girl. I am a pro at putting labels on envelopes.

And stuffing them too. Then I seal them shut.

Last step is taking them to the post office. That's a lot of mail. I like doing office work.

Back Off Irene

2011-08-29T22:31:00.000-04:00

Nobody wants you around anymore. Plus...

I have my Mott's so now I'm really ready:) For the next few hurricanes I think.

Ready for a Hurricane

2011-08-29T12:18:00.000-04:00

Every channel on tv is talking about a hurricane. So I decided I better make a list of what I need for survival.

Chips Ahoy! check.
Cheez-It-Low fat of course - check
Baby Gold Fish - check
SpaghettiO's - just in case - check

Mom...Back to the store you must go. You forgot the Mott's Apple Juice. I have not received any money for endorsing these products although I would entertain any and all offers. Call my agent. His name is Adam Blaire.

iFaith Restored

2011-08-27T02:28:00.001-04:00

by Joyce...A few weeks back I wrote about a situation that had taken the wind out of my sails for a few days. I was simply dumbfounded that someone would go to such lengths to actively deceive a group of parents who live each day on the edge of what seems like a teeter totter. Why would someone promise iPads they knew were undeliverable to kiddos with life threatening illnesses and communication delays? Well the simple truth is, we will probably never know. And that just stinks. But not for long.

Enter a group of folks who decided to take the situation and turn it around for the better. Heather, Ken and crew formed an endeavor called Mission iPossible. Their quest is simple. They aim to get the promised iPads into the hands of the original forty families.

For the skeptics out there, let me just tell you I have met Blogzilly aka Ken Lilly. In person. Not that I'm a doubting kind of gal, but the original fraudster made us all think twice. Late one evening, with a little divine nudging, I arrived at the doorstep of the Lilly pad:) I'm here to tell you he is the real deal. He and the team are working hard behind the scenes to make sure this time, promises are kept.

I could go on and on about the man that has taken the reins of this operation, but I would never tell the story like he does, so click here and read about the kiddos who have already received their iPads. Warm fuzzies are bound to flutter into your heart.

And that is where I need your help. You see, Ken is kinda down for a day or two. He had his tonsils removed today. Not the biggest of deals, but I've followed Ken long enough to know that even a few hours away from the task of completing this mission will annoy him.

What I would love to see happen...

...the thermometer get up to $8,000 by the end of the weekend. A little happy healing gift to Ken during his recovery. More importantly, MOST IMPORTANTLY, it will help get more iPads into the hands of more kiddos. And I've personally scene enough to know what a huge difference they can make to a youngster having a difficult time of expressing him or herself. Won't you please help us.

The team has made it very easy and legitimate. An email comes to you the minute you donate and it is followed up by a really nice thank you letter. They have even partnered up with the Gwendolyn Strong Foundation so your gift will be tax-deductible.

Thank you so much for your consideration. Making a difference is what life is all about.

Soccer Sister

2011-08-20T23:55:00.000-04:00

Tonight, I officially became a Soccer Sister. My little brother had his first soccer game for our high school.

As we were walking in, they were announcing the players. Then I heard #11 Matt Ely Freshman. Hey nobody told me he made Varsity. Now I'm a Varsity Soccer Sister. I like that.

There he is #11.

He just kicked the ball. Good job Matt.

I think I'm going to take a walk to the snack shop. I know where it is because I went to high school here too. Remember...Class of 2008.

Hey Dad, want some Cheetohs. Oh I forgot to tell you. My dad played soccer for this same school when he was in high school.

This is a good place to stand. I can see the whole field. How do you like my shirt? It was from my little blogging friend Leah's Buddy Walk Team. Our school colors are brown and gold so I thought it would be perfect to wear to the game tonight.

Game's over. We lost 0-2 to Nordonia. Maybe we will win next time. Ohhh Matt is going to be in big trouble. He is walking the field without his shoes on. Mom is not going to be happy when she sees his dirty socks. LOL!!!

Beach Babes wrapped in Crabs

2011-08-19T23:14:00.003-04:00

When I arrived at work today, there were crabs on the counter...

I do remember seeing these crabs before at Quilt Market in Salt Lake City.

That was the day I met Emily Herrick. She designed this fabric collection.

A few minutes later the mailman delivered a big box. It is from Utah. Hey, I've been there.

My mom said I could open it. It is like my birthday all the time in the store.

I think it is a quilt.

A big quilt.

Wow!!! look at this. It is made with the same fabric.

Well what do you think? My mom told me a very nice lady named Lu made it. And she knows Emily. Can you believe it:)

I decided if this is a beach quilt I better take my shoes off.

And now I'm busted. Guess who just walked in? Bonnie, my music therapist.

My mom said, "Oh perfect, you're just in time to model a new apron we received." And look, a cute little dress too. I would have worn that when I was little. We look like two beach babes wrapped in crabs:)

The fabric is called Going Coastal and is now available at our store. The quilt is by Lu For The Love Designs. The Apron is by the Apron Addict. The dress is by Jam N'Jelli.

Minnie Buckeye...

2011-08-15T21:38:00.000-04:00

What do you get when you combine Minnie Mouse with Brutus Buckeye?...

The cutest little Minnie Buckeye!!! This is my little blogging friend Josie. She sent me this picture to wish me a happy birthday. She is doing a cheer for me. She lives all the way down south. Not even in Ohio. Now how cute is that!!! Thank you Josie and mom Emily.

And right after I received that email my mom brought in the snail mail. She said I am the only one she knows who gets a personalized birthday greeting from Ohio State. Hmm...I wonder why:)

Go Bucks!!!

It Was Sweet for Sure

2011-08-14T12:00:00.000-04:00

We had a Sweet Treat Extravaganza in the store to celebrate our first anniversary. My mom said we were going to share treats with our customers to thank them for supporting us.

Then something else happened. We started to receive things to help us celebrate. Like this big box from our friend Kate Spain.

It had a really, really nice note. And it was full of cool stuff. I recognized many of the designs. They are on some of our fabric.

I really liked everything. Hmm...this is a recipe organizer. I think I might just have to put all my favorite recipes in here. I could type them out on the computer.

And we got cupcakes and purple flowers from two of our bestest customers.

And a box from Moda with a letter from the president. No not that President, Mark Dunn the president of Moda fabrics. He's a cool dude.

Ahhh...and my dad came down to give me a hug and a kiss too.

Look how nice this is. It's a candle. Perfect to put in Kristen's Kitchen. Right next to her frame. We always like to have a candle glowing to remember Kristen because her Light is always shinning bright.

And look who came to visit us on Saturday. It's Vickie Eapen of Spun Sugar Quilts. She is a designer and has lots of quilts published in magazines and books. She is super nice too. It sure has been a sweet week. Thank you everyone.

Prepping for the Extravaganza

2011-08-10T23:10:00.000-04:00

So this week was my birthday. Thank you for the happy wishes. You are all so nice. And it is also the first anniversary of our quilt store. So we are having a special event. It is called Sweet Treat Extravaganza. We had a few things to do to get ready. So on Monday, my mom and I went to the Apple store...

No, not that kind of Apple store...the Apple Display store...

Where they have all kinds of things for stores to use in displays.

Like this wire rack. We need one to display patterns. Especially because they will be 50% off during our anniversary sale.

"I hope we can get this in the car mom." It's kinda big. Hey check out that motor cycle behind me. Maybe I could take that home. LOL. Ok it fit. Next stop...

No way. No. No. No. N. O. Mom...I am not going in that candy store. You know I hate the smell of candy...

Guess Who's 22 Today?

2011-08-09T08:02:00.000-04:00

Me!!! It's my birthday:)

Grandpa already surprised me with this flower. Can you see what is on it?

Haaaa Target cards!!!! My favorite birthday present.

And a big, big, big chocolate chip cookie...

Scooter Tricks with Hat

2011-08-08T12:12:00.001-04:00

Twenty Years Ago

Hat Tricks by Sarah

2011-08-07T12:08:00.000-04:00

Twenty Years Ago

Learning to Walk

2011-08-05T22:18:00.000-04:00

Twenty Years Ago...

Guess Who Got Married?

2011-08-02T23:47:00.000-04:00

Yep, you guessed it. My dad had a surprise for my mom. He was pretty excited about it. Can you tell?

We were going to go to the beach by Lake Erie where they got married the first time. But it is lightening and thundering outside. So we decided to stay right here. In the kitchen. They said all that mushy stuff like in the movies.

And then he placed the ring on her finger. It is purple!!! My mom LOVED it. It is really an anniversary ring. They have been married for twenty five years today.

This is me and my little brother Matt. We were so full of love tonight too.

Then we went out to eat. Here I am with my dad at California Pizza Kitchen. I had pizza:)

Here is mom and Matt. No TJ tonight. He is on vacation with Julie and her family in Canada. He'll be sorry he missed CPK.

The wedding cake. Red Velvet. Is that paint on the plate I want to know?

My dad decided to feed my mom a bite, so I took a picture.

Check this out. My dad is one smooth dude. He had another box with a matching necklace in it.

Haaa. Matt went to get yogurt and caught them kissing. Love birds. The end.

Sew Hooked on Sweetness

2011-07-31T11:30:00.005-04:00

A while back we wrote a post about the Hook family. They wanted to adopt a sweet little girl named Evan. While they were traveling to bring her home, I was busy sewing. You can read about it and see pictures here. Then some things happened that made us very worried about Angie & Clark being able to adopt her. In the end, everything worked out and Eva Noel Hook came home to be with her forever family. That's when I got busy again.

I wrote her a little note. It said "Welcome home Eva."

I got it all packed up and took it to the post office. Remember this post?

Now look at this sweetness...

Evan with her very own quilt. This one is really special to me because it includes some of the fabric that Kate Spain sent to me from her collection named Verna. She is so sweet I could just squeeze her right through the screen. I am so happy she likes it. Here is what her momma wrote to us...

Joyce, please tell Sarah thank you for the quilt and pillowcase!! It was such a beautiful surprise and Evan LOVES it! I told her it was hers and she'd point at it and then point at herself with a HUGE smile! She carried it around all night and is sleeping with it!! THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!!

Oh that makes my heart swell. I included a pillowcase from our One Million Pillowcase project in memory of Kristen too. Now I have to get busy making another quilt. I have a sweet little boy to send it to. And I know just the perfect fabric I am going to use.

We Wish You a Merry Christmas

2011-07-26T02:13:00.000-04:00

Sometimes I think my mom is joking. Like today, when she said we were going to put the Christmas tree up.
.

But guess what? She wasn't kidding. She just meant at the store.

I decided if we really were going to put up a tree we should be listening to Christmas music. So I put in my favorite holiday cd.

Before you know it, my mom has me holding lights. I think this is so funny. It is July.

Then she got out the box of ornaments we brought with us. Look what I found in the box. Pictures of us at Christmas time. I love looking at old photos.

Oh man, I should have known when I put in that NSync cd my mom would be singing and dancing.

I was so happy when I found this. It is an angel sitting on a spool of thread. I think it is Kristen and that made me happy.

I am going to put it right here under the tree. When I turned back around my mom had tears rolling down her face.

That made me sad too. Then she told me she was not sad, just so happy with how this is all coming together. And she was so thankful for all the people who have helped us get here. Then we were back to laughing and being just us girls.

Ok, here is a video of what we were doing to get ready for our big Christmas sale at the store...

Make an on-line slideshow at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Sewing In Action

2011-07-25T10:16:00.000-04:00

I love making pillowcases.

And sewing on the machine.

I have to take the pins out.

And now I turn it right side out. It looks like a sausage doesn't it.

Now I am taking the final pins out. Then I start all over again.

Opps, the thread came out. My mom helps me get it back in.

Starting another one. This one has a blue top.

Turning the sausage. I love this part the most.

And another one. Brown and orange.

Ok that's all for today. I made a total of six pillowcases in memory of Kristen. More tomorrow.

Brotherly Love the 2011 Way

2011-07-23T09:55:00.005-04:00

We had a really, really, really, really, really bad storm come through Cleveland around 4:30 yesterday afternoon. It got very, very dark and windy outside. I was scared. So I called my mom at the store. She told me Matt was home and to go into his room. So I did.

I took my laptop and headphones with me so I could be just like my little brother. This is what my mom found when she came home. She thought it was so cute she had to get the camera.

Here's a picture with the flash on so you can see just how alike we are. Matt's headphones are bigger than mine though. And he drinks Gatorade. I only drink Mott's apple juice. The end.

Pillowcases for Kristen

2011-07-21T08:48:00.000-04:00

I was making pillowcases yesterday. So were our customers. I think we are up to 57 right now. Thank you.

I was concentrating on cats and dogs. On fabric that is. We need more pillowcases for boys we decided. So I better get busy.

I Miss You Kristen

2011-07-20T00:01:00.009-04:00

One year ago today, my mom came into my bedroom and told me my blogging friend Kristen was in Heaven. I cried. I can't believe it has been one year already. I miss you Kristen.

Today we are making pillowcases in the store in memory of Kristen. If you don't know about our story you can click here and here to read about it.

This past May while I was at quilt market in Salt Lake City, I was able to visit Kristen's house and meet with her family.

I even got to spend some time in Kristen's bedroom. How do you like her tree? She loved that tree.

I sat in her favorite chair. That made me a little sad.

And I got to see all her favorite trinkets. Here's the thing. Kristen and I lived thousands of miles apart, but we both loved the same stuff. Like Disney, and beads, and Minnie Mouse. Do you see the picture of Kristen on the wall. She is an angel now.

After we left their house, we were driving down the road and I said, " She's here." My mom said, "Who's here Sarah?" "Kristen. She's here mom." "Ok, Sarah." "No mom, I mean it. Kristen is here. I know she is here." My mom kept her eyes on the road because there was construction. After we got out of the way, she said, "Sarah, Kristen is in heaven honey. With the angels." I said, "No mom, she is here."

When we got to the cemetery, I did not want to get out of the car. So my mom and Kristen's mom were talking together. Then I decided to get out and walk over. Polly told me all about the day they buried Kristen.

I brought something I wanted to leave next to where Kristen is resting. A purple butterfly. My mom likes purple butterflies and I thought Kristen would too. A few days earlier it was Kristen's birthday. As we were leaving I said, "Happy Birthday Kristen. I miss you. I will see you soon."

A few weeks after we left Utah, they put Kristen's picture on her heart. I think it is beautiful. I know Polly and her family will be here today. They will be very sad. Please pray for the Kirton family today.

I miss Kristen. You will always be a rock star!!!

Trust and Transparency

2011-07-18T08:08:00.000-04:00

by Joyce: As the events were unfolding regarding the iPad and money scam I wrote about a view days ago, my greatest concern was for the families that are working so hard to raise funds to bring precious children home from countries who do not embrace the extra chromosome like we do. So many of them have giant enormous hearts for these kiddos, yet need our financial assistance as international adoption is so very expensive. The easiest way for them to fund raise is through their blogs. I was so worried this one unfortunate situation would deter some from doing so.

Last night I received an email that helped me separate the difference between the two.

A legitimate organization will issue a thank you letter. In this case, they even identify the family fund my donation has been applied to.

It will contain specific information as to where I may contact them if I have any questions.

And it will contain their tax ID as well as state they are a registered 501 c 3 charity. If you would like more information regarding non profit status and ways to identify a legitimate organization, clink this link on Ellen's blog.

In my opinion, it's all about transparency. Without crystal clear disclosure, there is little to trust. And trust is so important. Unfortunately, one thoughtless person can create this mistrust. Please do not let it deter you from seeking out the organizations who are working so hard to gain your trust.

Money, Money, Money...

2011-07-16T00:32:00.000-04:00

Remember this picture...

A few of you were correct. Don't you just hate it when you're all dressed up then have to walk past the smokers hanging at the door of the building you're going into. My mom calls it the tunnel of death. It's a bad asthma attack waiting to happen. So I just whipped my jacket off and covered my nose and mouth trying not to inhale.

Once I was inside I put my jacket back on. I was downtown for an important meeting at Skylight Financial. They have a division called the Michael Carter Group. The people there specialize in working with families who have someone like me.

My mom says it is really super important to make sure all my money is handled correctly. That is why I have something called the Sarah Ely Special Needs Trust. Really smart lawyers over at Hickman & Lowder set it up for us. It will take care of all my future needs, but still allow me to collect my monthly SSI check.

After the meeting, I decided I wanted to look out the window. It was a little scary though. I inched over very carefully and then I...

looked down. Yikes, that is a big fall. It is sorta freaking me out a little bit.

That's better. Down the elevator we went to check out one of the guitars on display. This beauty cost $10,000. Wow, that is a lot of money. But it went to a really good cause, the United Way of Greater Cleveland and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

And speaking of rock and roll...look where we went for lunch.

Missing Money, Invisible iPads

2011-07-14T00:15:00.000-04:00

This is Joyce. Please allow me to begin by thanking you, our readers. I truly never expected the out pouring of support to come through so loud, clear and quickly. Please know this situation will not deter Sarah and I from blogging. Quite the contrary. We have so many amazing new things to talk about.

But for now, the truth. This blog was being used last evening by a team of folks much smarter than I am in the underworkings, innerworkings and outworkings of computers and the internet. They were searching for various IP addresses, map locations, comment patterns, etc. Why? All in the efforts to catch a predator. A viper. The devil in disguise. Unfortunately, there has been a very ugly situation playing out that many of our blogging families got caught up in.

I am going to very briefly summarize what happened. I am only doing this as a learning tool. A platform to help get a message out. I do not want comments here about who was wrong, who is to blame, or who is supporting whom. This is not the place.

Let's not forget this is Sarah's blog and she does not really understand what is going on. She was not happy that I put a frowning face up. So this next picture is for you Sarah...

Here is a quickie version...
1. Person A writes a blog about a girl.
2. He claims she is his daughter.
3. She suffers from infantile spasms.
4. She needs surgery that insurance won't cover.
5. He puts up a Chip-in widget on his blog.
6. People start giving money.
7. Ipads become popular as a tool for youngsters who need a little extra help with tasks such as speaking.
8. Person A offers a few iPads for "special needs" children who could use them.
9. Person A has a boss who is a generous kind of guy.
10. The boss decides to offer iPads to worthy families.
11. They select a handful then nice boss offers more iPads for the families as he is moved to tears by the stories he has read.
12. More worthy families send him applications with personal info.
13. Some families get emails to put money into chip-in account to help cover postage.
14. Some do. Some don't. Some ask a relative to give for them as they have little money which is why they thought this offer of iPads was so generous.
15. The kind boss offers up more iPads if chip-in reaches a certain level.
16. Chip-in reaches $29,000+.
17. Person A now claims there will be 40 iPads to give away.
18. Person A claims seven iPads are mailed.
19. A month or so goes by.
20. No families have received iPads.
21. They start searching out other families who won.
22. Pattern is starting to develop and become known to certain families this might be a scam.
23. Person A receives an email demanding certain things such as taking down the chip-in, and mail the iPads.
24. Person A uses this as a great blogging material, tells us all his family has been threatened. He has called authorities.
25. Not sure if Person A knows this but authorities are already working behind the scenes to validate the funds he has collected and his true whereabouts.
26. Many iPad "winners" start emailing about Person A. (This is where I got involved)
27. Person A blogs that his boss and he have determined that the shipping department at their company screwed up with the mailing of said iPads.
28. Emails fly between Person A and others.
29. Person A blogs that an employee in the mailing department is fired.
30. Bloggers blog and a website goes up called SNAvenger demanding more answers.
31. Person A claims if he divulges his boss or the company he works for, he will be fired and they will loose their health insurance for sick daughter.
32. Ellen at Love That Max does a post. The comments go berserk.
33. Person A after much pleading admits there are no iPads.
34. Person A offers to refund money.
35. Person A blogs that he wants to refund money, he really does, but PayPal won't let him.
36. Two bloggers, Ken and Heather, go live with a plan to attempt to truly get iPads in the hands of those families that were expecting them.
37. Person A claims he has now been fired from job.
38. Authorities are zooming in on the real identity of Person A.

It does sound like the outline of a primetime television movie, doesn't it? Unfortunately, there are many real families and businesses who were taken in with giving money. And there are forty families who were living under the impression that an Ipad was coming their way. Some even changed appointments with speech therapists in anticipation of it's arrival. One even turned down a communication board from her school district, thinking her son would be getting his iPad soon.

I will let you draw your own conclusions. Your own moral of the story.

Sad State of Affairs

2011-07-13T00:51:00.000-04:00

This is Joyce. I truly never thought the day would come when this blog would cause more stress than pleasure. Yet that day has come.

What is the most disturbing...it comes from within. Within our very own special needs community. What used to be a source of inspiration and support has become divisive. People are choosing sides, lashing out, being quick to judge. I'm not sure we will ever know for sure what truly transpired. Lies, deceit, greed. Those words never make for a good story line unless your writing a script for prime time television. I'm sure hoping there will be some true apologies, a few refunds and lots of folks stepping back to assess and learn from the scenario. I know I sure will be.

Needed: Headline Writers

2011-07-12T01:13:00.000-04:00

I need a caption for this photo. What do you see? What would you call it? What would you write?

Master of the Mail Machine

2011-07-10T12:05:00.000-04:00

I am off with an important task.

I am heading to the post office.

I have some packages to mail.

My mom says I am a master of this mail machine. I can do the whole process by myself. I have to answer some questions then I type in the zip code where the package is going.

If I've done everything correctly, a big sticker comes out to put on the box.

I have to repeat that step for every box I am mailing.

Here's my sticker for this one.

Somebody just came in. I told him, "I'll be just a minute. I have one more package to mail." He said, "Ok, no rush. Thank you."

The last package goes in the bin. That was a successful trip.

Cruisin'

2011-07-09T01:01:00.000-04:00

I am cruisin' in grand style at BJ's.

LOL. Nice ride don't you think. Man it was freezin' in that store. Next time I'm bringing my hoodie.

7.4.91

2011-07-04T15:31:00.001-04:00

Twenty Years Ago Today...

I love looking at pictures from when I was little.

This is from the fourth of July when I was almost two.

I loved waving my little flag around. I still do.

Oops. I think I hit my brother in the head. It looks like I thought it was funny, but not TJ. He is being very quiet about it. Sorry TJ. Hope you are having a good 4th of July.

I Love Music Camp

2011-07-02T23:59:00.000-04:00

We had our music camp share day.

It was so much fun.

We made a drum to play on.

And a fan when we learned about Asia.

We sang We Are the World.

And we made a musical passport.

I have so much fun with Bonnie. She is the greatest music therapist ever.

My mom was so proud of me.

Even Matt and TJ came to see me perform. I think they liked it. TJ was laughing a lot and that made me smile:)

Afterwards we went to Bob Evans for dinner. I tried sneaking some of my dad's salad but then I started choking so he knew I took a bite. I was ok though.

Want to see our music camp in action...

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Rocking Out at Camp

2011-06-29T00:30:00.002-04:00

So far we are having a great time at music, art & dance camp.

We made dream catchers with yellow yarn.

I like being with the other campers.

We have a good time making art together.

Then it's time for some music.

We created a drum circle.

Today we were using scarves to feel the rhythm.

Then we were being silly and put them on our heads.

That's when I decided I was getting married:)

I was sitting pretty quiet for a while. Then all of a sudden I just let it rip and started to bust a move.

I was showing all my best ones too.

You know, my dance moves. Everyone was cheering me on. It was exhausting.

Good thing it was time to sit down and work on our musical passports.

I love being with Bonnie. She is so much fun. And this year we have even more camp staff.

Meet Kellie, Bonnie and Amanda. You will never guess what happened on the first day. My mom dropped me off and talked to Kellie. After she left she thought Kellie reminded her of someone else we know...

...Kristen. My very favorite teacher from Cevec. I had her for two years. She directed the jewelry making program that I loved. Guess what? Kellie and Kristen are sisters. How cool is that!!!!!

My Very Own Transformer

2011-06-25T08:07:00.000-04:00

OMG!!! Look at this thing in my driveway.

I don't know what it is, but I have to go to work.

Home for lunch. Now look. It is in the front yard. The thing looks like those Transformers my brothers used to play with.

Good thing it's not sitting on TJ's flowers. He would not be happy about that after all the work he did planting them:) My mom says this is our new lawn sculpture. Does that mean it is going to stay here?

We Are the World

2011-06-20T20:50:00.001-04:00

Just learned there are still a few openings in the summer music therapy camp Sarah attends each summer. It is the week of June 27 thru July 1st. It is located in Willoughby, Ohio an eastern suburb of Cleveland and is geared toward teens and young adults. The theme this year is...

If you are interested, please call Bonnie or one of the therapists listed. I just had a brain storm after reading a friend's facebook status. Next year we should open this up for an "exchange student" to come live with us for the week and attend camp with Sarah. Other musical students get to do that, why not our young adults?

Happy Father's Day

2011-06-19T12:46:00.000-04:00

to the BEST dad in the WORLD!!!

He's #1. Yea!!!

He showers me in kisses:)

He makes me laugh.

He makes me feel so special. I LOVE you dad!!!!! Happy Father's Day:)

A Furry Newborn In the Store

2011-06-15T23:14:00.000-04:00

Today I had a visitor at the store. The youngest one yet. She is only three weeks old.

She arrived in a basket.

Then she got down on the floor for a little bit. She is so tiny. She is just starting to walk.

I liked watching her. She cries a lot. I think that means she is hungry.

Her name is Zipper. Her mommy can't be found. So our friend Bonnie is raising her.

Bonnie has to fed Zipper with this little tiny baby bottle. Inside is kitty formula. I was thinking about trying it. No...not the milk, feeding Zipper:)

So I started to pet her so she would know who I was. But guess what happened? All of a sudden my airway started closing. I started coughing. My neck started to get scratchy and then my lungs started to tighten. And I had to go upstairs. Good thing my mom keeps an emergency inhaler in the store. I needed it four times before I could start breathing again. I had to do my relaxation exercises too. And drink water. Ugh!!! Sorry Zipper. I guess we can't be best friends after all.

Be Safe Dave

2011-06-05T12:53:00.000-04:00

When I was in Utah, I went to Kristen's house. I met her sister Kim. She is so sweet. And I got to meet her husband Dave. They got married last summer. They moved their wedding up so Kristen could be there. That was so nice.

When we were visiting, Dave was telling us about going somewhere with his Army unit. He left today. Polly wrote about it on her blog.

Dave and Kim. They are so cute together.

Please pray for Dave and his unit while they are sacrificing for our freedom. I'm going to work on a box to send him if we can find out his address. Right now it is top secret. Be safe Dave.

CEVEC Graduation

2011-05-26T23:51:00.002-04:00

Very early this morning my dad dropped my off at CEVEC. I had not been there for awhile because I have been working at the fabric store. It was good to see my friends. We spent most of the day rehearsing. Then TJ picked me up and took me home so I could take a nap.

When I woke up, there was a surprise waiting for me.

Hmm...I wonder what would happen if I gave it the 'ole...

...punch one, two, three. After a short round of boxing practice, my mom said it was time to get dressed.

All the girls received a flower to wear with a pink ribbon.

This is my friend Brittany. We have known each other for a really long time. We were born just one week apart back in August 1989.

These are my friends Brittany and Courtney. They are twins. But I can always tell them apart.

Grandma and Grandpa surprised me. I did not know they were coming.

This is Mrs. Rose. She was my teacher at the apartment.

Here we come. Pomp and Circumstances played over and over again. Everyone stood up once we were all at our seats.

Here is my friend Brittany again. She gave a speech. She did a good job.

I sat in the front row. Yikes, that meant I had to be on my best behavior.

Coming out in the audience to give my mom a flower.

Time for our row to stand up. Soon I heard, "Sarah Ely. Employed at JEllen's house of fabric." Haaa, that was my cue to move.

And so I moved really fast. "Hello Mr. Ross," I said before shaking his hand.

Darn. This hat won't stay on my head. Good thing it is almost the end.

It's over. My friend Richard came up to see me before we left the stage.

Here I am with my friend Anthony.

Time for a few group shots. TJ and Julie are here. No Matt though. He is in Washington DC with his class from school.

And now one with mom in it. Usually she is the one taking pictures. Thanks Julie.

We all got a present from the principal, Mrs. Schwartz. I wonder what it is?

Nice. It is a personal grooming case. That will come in handy.

This is John Kabat. He has been so good to me. He always makes sure I have what I need to succeed. Thank you. He is retiring at the end of the year. Good luck Mr. Kabat.

OMG!!!!!!!!!! It's Mr. K. I was really mad at him earlier today. But I can't stay mad at him forever.

We are going to be best friends for life. I am so happy now.

Mrs. Henschel and me. She has been my teacher for the last two years. This year she came to visit me at the store.

My friends. Damon and the guys.

Once we got home, I could hardly walk. My dad had to help me in the house I was so tired.

Time for a cookie. A big chocolate chip cookie with milk. Then it is bedtime.

First, I have a card to open. Oh YES!!! Target cards. Thank you Grandma & Grandpa. You're the best:)

Welp, that's a wrap. Graduation Class of 2011 comes to an end. Now I really have to get to bed because I have to go to work in the morning.

You're Invited

2011-05-25T22:27:00.000-04:00

Here's a sneaky peak...

Take Two

2011-05-14T21:00:00.001-04:00

Looks like Thursday, May 12, 2011 will go down in blogger history as a day they wish to not remember. We have been patiently waiting for our missing posts to reapper. No such luck. Oddly enough the posts on our other two blogs were eventually perfectly restored, but not this one. Boo Blogger Hoo. We are working to recreate the original posts, but for now we are frantically updating the store blog from quilt market. You can follow current posts at: www.jellenshouseoffabric.blogspot.com.

A Morning Surprise

2011-05-11T11:50:00.000-04:00

When we landed in Utah, it was really dark. When we woke up, I went over to the window and saw mountains!!!

They are everywhere.

I've never seen mountains before.

I had to call my dad to tell him. He was eating lunch at home. How weird is that when it is only 10:00 here. I am having a hard time understanding this time thing.

Good thing we made this chart so we know where we are going. Ok see ya. I have to get dressed, we are meeting some friends at the mall soon.

Planes with Surprises

2011-05-10T23:28:00.001-04:00

We are off to Utah. I was a little surprised at first because my mom was going down a different road.

That is because we left from the Akron/Canton airport. It is smaller than Cleveland. I really liked it a lot. We brought my transport chair so I would not be too tired.

And we brought the bucket, just in case. We had to land in Denver.

They had a cart waiting for me to take us to the next gate. That was a surprise.

The cart was moving so fast my hair was blowing in the wind. I was waving to people like I was in a parade. That made my mom laugh. She took some video.

Check this out. While we were waiting for the next flight, my mom showed me the pictures. That was a surprise.

We were on Frontier Airlines. Do you know they have television on the plane. I watched the Disney Channel and they make chocolate chip cookies. They were warm. I loved them. That was a surprise too.

All of a sudden the pilot came on and said welcome to Salt Lake City. That flight was so short.

And then the greatest surprise of all. Polly was waiting for us with a big sign. I really liked that.

Final UTAH Details

2011-05-08T19:54:00.080-04:00

This is it. We just printed the boarding pass!!! Ok here are the meet up details. There is never going to be a time we can get everyone together plus it is suppose to rain all day. So we have come up with a menu. You can come to all the events or pick and choose to your liking. If you can, give us an idea of your plans so we can keep a look out for you. My cell is two one six, seven eight zero, five nine one six. (sorry had to do it that way for hackers). Can't wait to see everybody!!!!

Tuesday, May 10

11:30 - 1:00
Meet for lunch in the food court on level 2A

1:30 - 3:00
Meet in the lower level playarea

South Towne Center is located at 10450 South State Street, Sandy, Utah

4:30 - 6:30
Happy hour or dinner...your choice

Friday's is located at: 130 W. & 10600 South Sandy, Utah

7:00 - 8:00

Poolside Fun at our hotel

bring your swimsuits

Courtyard by Marriott is located at: 10701 S. Holiday Park Drive, Sandy, Utah

Wednesday, May 11

3:30 - 4:30

Join us at the Material Girls Quilts

a fun shop we have been following for a long time

we can't wait to see it in person

and meet Nadine, the owner

Material Girls Quilts located at: 1645 West Town Center Dr. #4 South Jordan, Utah

5:00 - 7:00

Dinner at Cafe Rio

which comes highly recommended by our Utah friends

Cafe Rio is located at: 1664 West Town Center Drive South Jordan, Utah

What a Week!!!

2011-05-07T22:43:00.000-04:00

Wow what a week, I had some visitors in the store I want you to meet. My littlest friend is Luke.

He is sooooo cute. He makes me laugh.

And he has the best smile. He just kept smiling the entire time he was here. His mommy is so nice.

Then I met Lili. We were being kinda silly.

Like girls do. She was drawing a picture for us on the chalk board with magic ink. It was good.

She is so adorable. I should have taken a picture of her socks because they were from a Princess and a Frog and they were so cool. Lili is in kindergarten and is talking so much. Wow!! Her speech is so amazing. Good work Lili.

We have had a sale going on for the past few days.

At first I wasn't so sure about it. I had to do some number crunching. Do you think I look like an accountant? LoL. But in the end...

We sold so much fabric I could not believe it. Look at all these empty bolts!! My mom says we have the best customers ever. I agree. We are so tired we are going to bed. But tomorrow we have to get up bright and early to pack for UTAH!!!!

I've Got Utah Details

2011-05-03T22:32:00.000-04:00

Details. Details. Who's got the details? OMG!!! We are leaving in less than one week and we have no details. Ok...so here is the itinerary...so far...

notice the holes? some are not such a big deal like...housing...overrated...but friends...now that is a BIG DEAL. We need to make plans. Talk to me. Utah friends please talk to me. When shall we meet? Where shall we meet? I need to see you!!!

We Have Flowers

2011-05-03T00:17:00.000-04:00

It has been a very long winter.

Finally, we have beautiful flowers in front of the store. And with flowers comes...

...pollen. What more can I say?

To Love Endlessly

2011-04-29T20:41:00.001-04:00

We had such a surprise in the store today. There is so much to share, yet sometimes it's best to let the pictures do the talking...

Magical moments with Patti and Little Miss all the way from way down south. To read more about this sweet family click here.

A Lot of Stars

2011-04-26T21:57:00.001-04:00

A few weeks ago, we asked our customers to help us make stars.

They are starting to come into the store so I am putting them up on the design wall.

They are going to be all sewed together to make quilts for wounded service men and women.

I like that idea. Do you want to see how many came in today? Click HERE.

Forever in Holland

2011-04-25T06:45:00.002-04:00

My dearest Sarah, I remember a time many years ago, when I could look at one of the first signs of spring and see simply flowers.

With their tall green leafy stems, their round pointy petals in a kaleidoscope of colors, I could stare at them for hours and still see only tulips. And then you entered my world. Your arrival rocked me to the core for a short while. My firmly grounded feet felt like they had all of a sudden encountered murky soil. With each new step, I was unsure of my future. Our future. Before I could fully embrace your existence, I had to endure a series of tests and trials. Not all of them pleasant. In fact, I still carry the pain of a few to this day. Yet, God had a plan for us Sarah. For you and me sweet girl.

I will never forget the first time another more experienced mom shared with me the poem, Welcome to Holland by Emily Perl Kingsley. It gave me a new found hope. I wasn't sure I was in agreement with the idea that I was heading to Italy, yet I sure knew I wasn't planning on hitting Holland either. I had a future mapped out. It included a Career. Money. Status. Maybe even Fame. I was headed for great things. I was sure of it. Your extra chromosome wasn't written into that plan. It took me a few months, but eventually I threw that old plan away. Truthfully, for a few years though, I hated the sight of tulips. Gradually, I grew to appreciate them and what they stood for. A different place. Still beautiful, but different.

We have been through a lot precious girl. I've held you in my arms far too many times not sure if your next breath will come. Just this afternoon as we were driving down the highway, I looked back through my rear view mirror, and wondered if your fragile body was going to recover from a desperate coughing spell. One that forced us to pull off at the next exit. I asked my God, why? Why today? Why after all these years?

Then we turned the corner and there they were. Hundreds and hundreds and hundreds of them. Scarlet and pale yellow tulips. We are in Holland Sarah. Forever in Holland. Beautiful, beautiful Holland.

If only I knew back then what I know today. That the miracle of your birth was just the beginning for me. A fresh start to a grand and glorious life. I do wish I had realized sooner, that you were sent to teach me. To allow me to see the light through your eyes. To feel your love, a love like none other. It is so pure. So precious. So unconditional. If only I had been given just a glimpse of the bright and beautiful woman you were to be. I'm learning sweetheart. I need your patience for me to truly appreciate the plan that was outlined for us. God has known all along where we are going.

Later today, we have a meeting. A discussion that will help shape the future, not just our future, but the future of others on this vast Ohio State University campus. You are a pioneer girlfriend. How very blessed I am to be invited to ride a long.

As I look over your shoulder and see the infamous Ohio Stadium, I am reminded of the times you needed to be removed from the game festivities due to breathing issues, once involving a police escort. It makes the symbolism of the tulips today even greater. You are larger than life itself Sarah. Helping to change the world. I am truly privileged to be your mom, and oh so very grateful that my plane landed in Holland.

Happy Easter

2011-04-24T03:15:00.002-04:00

Remembering Carly

2011-04-23T12:12:00.000-04:00

Carly Elizabeth George

1-2-2002 ~ 4-23-2010

We miss you sweet friend

Shhh...

2011-04-22T00:11:00.000-04:00

...it's still a little secret...but it's really, really, really, really, really good. Coming to a shop near you in September. WHAT??? Did I just say September? How can I wait that long?