Thursday, December 3, 2009

Blessings, Sorrows, & Coincidence


Shortly after I wrote last night about the 'spinner' pendants, we learned that my husband's uncle had passed suddenly and very unexpectedly early yesterday morning. A wonderful man with a colourful and fascinating life, 20 years in the Air Force, a WWII POW, a Viet Nam vet, a pilot, a long haul truck driver, a champion bowler, a volunteer, a driver of red mustang convertibles, a father of 6, and partner of Kathryn. A life lived all over the world.
This morning I read Erin's comment about the spinner pendants and likening them to blessing beads that you could hold in your hand and use to be mindful of those things that give you joy. Is her comment a coincidence?
This pendant is larger than I might normally make and the chain is longer so that the beads are comfortable to hold and turn in your hand. Six beads for six children, blues and purples for tranquility and harmony, green for balance, and a splash of red for strength. And a little piece of turquoise for the cycle of life. I reckon after you have lost your life partner of more than 60 years you might could use a few blessing beads. This is for Kathryn.
We'll be leaving in a day to drive to just out of Tuscon where Kathryn and most of their children live. We will do more than pay our respects to Uncle Bob, we will celebrate his life. And we will think of the joy that having Bob in our lives has brought us.
A blessing.

23 comments:

mairedodd said...

an absolutely, perfectly thoughtful and wonderful keepsake... she will love it and i am sure it will bring her solace in the days ahead... what a beautiful remembrance and affirmation... so very sorry for your loss...

SueBeads said...

So sorry about your husband's uncle - the pendant is amazing! It is just so beautiful and meaningful! You need to do more of them, when you can!

sharon said...

So sorry for all of you LeAnn. The necklace will be a reminder of the strength, and beauty, that everyone knew. It is beautiful. Have a safe trip.

Judy said...

Oh LeAnn, I am so sorry for your families loss. You made the pendant for a reason....have a safe trip.

Leslie @ Bei Mondi said...

I'm so sorry for the loss in your family. I hope this piece gives Kathryn some comfort and helps her to think back on all the wonderful times they had together.

The Joy of Nesting said...

LeAnn,

You and your family, especially your Aunt Kathryn are in my thoughts. My wish for you is to find peace, acceptance and the strength needed when a loved one soul is set free. May you find solice knowing that though they are no longer here they will live on in each one's soul.

What a most loving and comforting gift you have created for Kathryn.

Pattie ;)
Mazatlan Mx.

Mellisa said...

What sad news for your family, I'm sorry to hear about your loss. I can't think of a more touching and beautiful gift for your Aunt Kathryn.

Cristi Baxter Clothier said...

I'm very sorry for your loss, LeAnn. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

The necklace will be a wonderful gift!

sasha + max studio said...

Condolences to you and the family - your husband's Uncle Bob sounds like he lived a very amazing life and will be missed by all. The pendant is a beautiful keepsake. Vicki

stregata said...

So sorry for the loss your family is suffering. It is hard to let them go...
The blessing beads are lovely - such a thoughtful gift.
I think this size of pendant is even more beautiful than the first ones - much more powerful!
Have a safe trip and yes, celebrate his life. And yours.Hugs.

Esther said...

so sorry for all of you ... this pendant is very beautiful.

Barbara Lewis said...

LeAnn, Uncle Bob sounds like he lived a life worth celebrating! I'm so sorry for Kathryn. Sometimes I think about if I were to lose Jim and the hole it would leave would be enormous. I married at 20 and it's almost been 38 years of marriage. It's hard to imagine the loss. What a great gift you'll be presenting Kathryn ... one that she can wear near her heart.

TesoriTrovati said...

Oh Miss LeAnn! I am so saddened by that news. But your tribute here is amazing and shows your grace and heart of light. Your Aunt Kathryn will certainly find comfort in the deep meaning of these blessing beads...and I am so humbled that you liked that comment. I really do believe that things happen for a reason. Maybe the Universe was preparing you for this loss by focusing your art on blessings rather than worry and sorrow. Much peace to you and your family at this time.
"Every day may not be good, but there is something good in every day." May the comments of all your friends by your "something good" today.
Enjoy the day!
Erin

Cindy said...

LeAnn, I was saddened to stop by and read such sad news. I am sorry for your family's loss. You are such a thoughtful niece/friend to create this meaningful and special pendant. Have a safe drive.
Cindy

Unknown said...

I'm so sorry for your loss. I'm sure Kathryn will love your pendant.

Candace said...

LeAnn, I came by to catch up on your always beautiful blog and read this sad note. My condolences on the loss of this obviously beloved uncle, the loss of this history, the loss of this blessing but you know his memory will continue to bring joy and comfort.
What kindnesses you are taking your Aunt Kathryn, both literal and figurative.
I am thinking of you and yours in the days ahead.
Candace in Athens.

Beverly Herman said...

LeAnn I am very sorry for you loss. Peace be with you and your family.

Marie Cramp said...

Bless you all in your time of need. They will be together again someday, something we all have to look forward to.

Hugs

Marie

Rosanne said...

I'm so sorry to hear about your husband's Uncle passing. It's never easy to get through, but being with family in a time such as this will definitely be a help for everyone. Your Aunt is gonna love that necklace, you've put so much meaning into it. May the good Lord be with you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Love,
Rosanne

Sweet Pea said...

And to think they got married the night they met eachother. What amazing people they both are!! I enjoyed visiting you in Tucson. I think we'll all miss my Great-Grandpa.

Sweet Pea said...

Well, not married, but he did propose!! Were you there at the tree with us?

Anonymous said...

So sorry for your loss. Your necklace is a lovely, tangible reminder of your uncle and I am sure it will be treasured.

Gaea said...

Such beautiful pendants for such a sorrowful time. Im so sorry for your loss.