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Thursday, January 07, 2021

When Words Fail.


In the aftermath of yesterday - the sun rises on a new day.

I've been lost in thoughts and tears, worry, fear, anger, betrayal, horror, unbelievable emotional pain and disbelief at the unfolding of yesterday's events in Washington DC.

I will say right now that there are folks who will storm off in protest saying "I'm not reading you anymore. This is supposed to be a quilting blog!"

Well, it's that and more. Because this is my life.

Quilting is the thread that can tie us together.

Quilting is the medium in which I throw myself when my world is in turmoil.

I quilt. In the best of times, and the worst of times.

"It's not wise to post political things!" some will say.

Maybe so.

But it's not political.  It's moral.  It's about decency, and respect.

I have not felt this way since the planes took down the twin towers on 9/11.

I feel like nothing is sacred any more.

And these are my legitimate feelings this morning.

"Then I will never support your business again!" they say. 

That's all right. Because the threat of withdrawing support isn't worth the cost of keeping silent.


I finished this quilt recently.

In between everything else.

I didn't have a name for it - but it evokes all of the feelings I have been working through since yesterday afternoon.


Nothing resolves in this pattern.

Nothing connects.


Each piece is individual - like a person with their own thoughts and feelings, just wanting to be heard.


Like quilts, we long to provide comfort in times of stress.

Or at least have others understand where we are coming from.

If I were a quilt - today I would describe myself as jagged and mismatched with raw edges showing.


Quiltville Quote of the Day -

There are things I have to remind myself of all the time.

I'm feeling rather tongue tied this morning. Words aren't coming easily. ⁣

I hope that when I look back at yesterday one year from now that some healing has happened. If not with my country and the world, within my own heart. 




354 comments:

  1. One of the things I value about the above post is that you are not putting potential earnings (aka the "I'll never buy from you again" customers) above your own mental and emotional health and well being. Your blog, your business, your rules. And as for myself, I haven't felt the terror for my country's future ever as deeply as I did yesterday. Not even on 9/11 as that came from outside our country and this came from within. You have my support, but that's not needed. You have your own support in knowing you stand true to your values. (hugs) Judy W

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    1. Amen, Judy Whitehead. "You have your own support in knowing you stand true to your values." I think that's one of the qualities about Bonnie Hunter that I appreciate most - sincere heart!

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    2. I am Canadian, but still felt the terror and fear after yesterdays events at your Capitol building. I agree that this seems worse than the 9/11 events as this action came from within your own country. The US is one of the most, if not THE most, revered countries in the world and yet people just do not value the freedoms and "perks" they have living in such a great country. The world changed yesterday... and for that I am incredibly
      sad.

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    3. Yes, Judy Whitehead, this terror that we witnessed yesterday came from within our own fellow citizens, we were opposing each other. Where as with 9/11, we united and came together as a country to recuperate, rebuild and repair. Not yesterday - there was division to tear us apart. We need to stand together or our country will not survive. Thank you Bonnie, you are the best.

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    4. Perhaps we have delayed expression of our feeling for too long a period and silence led others to think 'No one cares '. Perhaps it is time everyone stand up for this Republic because I recall learning from study of the beginning of this Republic, Benjamin Franklin replied to the inquiry "What do we have?" "You have a Republic if you can keep it." Silence is perhaps not the best way to express ourselves. Thanks for your thoughts, There are many who feel the same way. Hopefully a new dawn will bring us new hope. Stay safe and well everyone.

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  2. Hard times for us all. Keep up your good words. Love reading your blog. ❤️❤️

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  3. That quilt is a perfect description of these times! Well said! And you could say that is how it feels inside your lungs when COVID hits hard! Marilyn Marks

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  4. I agree with you Bonnie. I'm praying for this country. Bless you.

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  5. I am full of anger and rage as well. I was so blessed that my daughter held a prayer vigil last evening. It was so important for me to sit in the calm vigil for 45 minutes and allow the presence of god to help bring clarity to my thoughts.
    I will share my quote from the quilt that I made as a reaction to 911.
    God has Created a New Day
    Silver and green and gold
    Live that the sunset may find us
    Worthy its gifts to hold.
    Bless you Bonnie

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    1. Thanks for posting this-so appropriate!

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    2. Thanks for reminding me of this song of praise

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  6. Bonnie, you have every right to express your feelings. The threat to boycott your business is childish and reflects the rift currently in this country. I support you, not just because I agree with you, but because I respect your right to voice your opinion. I have enjoyed your blog and your quilting designs for many years and will continue to do so and support you however I can.

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  7. Hugs...don't apologize for how something made you feel. Never. A lot of us felt as you felt yesterday. You are kind, brave and creative. Quilt on!

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  8. ♥️♥️♥️ I agree. 100%.

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  9. My feelings echo yours.

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  10. Thank you for your words. We are living in turmoil right now.

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  11. I was going to write this long passage about those who don't deserve all that you do. Instead I want to tell you that your loyal followers Love you, like family. Don't let the bad eggs get you down! The chickens are still laying!

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  12. "When the Dust Settles." ❤
    Keep staying true to your heart.

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  13. You have always said this is a blog about your life. It includes everything and I think it is a good thing to talk about what is going on, what hurts us and maybe some healing will happen because of that. Watching from Canada was gut wrenching and unbelievable too. I am sure you will hear from more readers with positive comments over the negative ones. Hang in there!

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  14. Virtual hugs from the other side of the pond. xxx

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  15. Fracture. No apologies needed.

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    1. Great name! I was going to say Chaos.

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    2. "Shattered" is the word that immediately came to mind. As a Canadian, I feel shattered with you and for you.

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  16. I love your quilt and the turmoil within it. I understand its meaning. I feel like things are very one sided right now and we need balance. I will continue living my life, holding strong to my beliefs, and quilting soothes some of the hurts.

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  17. Thank you, my feelings exactly.

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  18. Thank you, my feelings exactly.

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  19. Love your jagged quilt. I too am with out words about yesterday.

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  20. Beautifully said Bonnie! Hugs!!!

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  21. Good for you. I started reading your blog for the quilting......but I continue to read it for your insight, humor, adventures and all you share.. those who do not agree or want to fight/argue/control what you feel/write are not worth worrying about. No one needs the added stress, now or ever.
    Keep sharing the sunrises, animals, recipes, humor, wisdom and of course QUILTS.
    MaryAnn in Oregon

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  22. Well said. I was profoundly disturbed yesterday.

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  23. I think most of us felt the same way yesterday. No apologies needed. Quilt on!

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    1. I for one second your statement hole heartily. Bonnie has the right to express her feelings as she sees fit. Doesn't change a thing of how I fee toward her and her blog. They are hers!

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  24. I think more of us share your thoughts and feelings than those who don't. Which is irrelevant anyway, as you get to post wht you like on your blog. I am behind you 100% as any right thinking American would be. I am not surprised that you are putting morality and decency above profit. You have always been a real "mensch". Would that all of our politicians do the same. Many are more concerned about getting re-relected than what is good for the country and that has, in large part, led to the insurrection we witnessed yesterday. The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men (and women) to do nothing. (JFK quoting Edmund Burke).

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  25. It was horrifying, unbelievable, gut wrenching, enraging. We ALL have to process. Thanks for sharing yours.

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  26. Bonnie, there was absolutely nothing political about your post. It was an expression of deeply felt feelings. I was very sad and upset yesterday. I was in a Zoom bible study while it was still happening yesterday afternoon and we prayed for the country. Keep your head up and know that all of us who read your blog love you. Hugs and Prayers headed your way.

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  27. Well said Bonnie...I agree 100%. How can you not mention what happened yesterday?! Yesterday was a horrific and heartbreaking day. Hugs to you!

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  28. I’m in agreement with you Bonnie. Stay true to yourself!

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  29. Well said, Bonnie. I would have gone further. I thought you were quite restrained. I was outraged and quite frightened for our democracy.

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  30. You've managed to convey some of the terror and fear I felt yesterday. We were glued to the tv which probably didn't help, but I just had to know what was happening. Keep on doing and saying what you feel.

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  31. Thank you for the courage to put this into words. I agree, this is not political. It goes much deeper. It was a sad day in these sad times.

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  32. It saddened me to see what happened yesterday in our nation's capitol but I have faith in our people, our history and our love of this nation. All will be well ... ALL will be well in time. You have the right (as does everyone) to say what they believe without fear of reprisals ... it's called freedom of speech. I pray that we all find peace and calm in our hearts. Linda

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  33. Families reach out to support one another in time of need . You, Bonnie, have treated us all like family. Thank you for sharing your life and your world with us and giving us quilters a ‘place’ to feel connected to one another. I hope our collective hugs wrap our love around you so that you will always feel safe expressing your views, your pain, your laughter and your light. Keep on sharing!!

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  34. I appreciate your post. You refuse to be bullied. Jagged and raw are valid descriptions for my feelings as well. I've always loved how scrappy quilts can unite many different elements into something beautiful. When sewn with care the whole quilt is stronger than its disparate bits and pieces. A good reminder to all.

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  35. Very well said. It was horrifying to watch how yesterday unfolded and hopefully everyone can be part of the healing.

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  36. I agree- this is your life & your blog. At the end of the day when you put your head on your pillow, it only matters that you believe that what you said and did what is right.

    What you said was about morality and decency. Because we're living in an unprecedented time, some of us need to stick our necks out and call things what they are, otherwise there won't be change. I am deeply grieved that so many truly good people have been deceived by this president. On the other hand, at his instigation, ugliness and hatred that have been hidden are now out in plain sight for us all to grapple with. I'm fervently wishing-praying- for healing for our country. That somehow we will be able to truly listen to each other and find a path to living in peace regardless of our differences.

    Sending you hugs and wishes for healing and peace. ♥️

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  37. The level of violence is shocking and very disturbing.
    Thankfully we have quilting to soothe us. I wonder how non quilters manage?
    I love your new quilt... it is vibrant with energy.

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  38. Thank you for being you

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  39. Thank you for being you.

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  40. Thanks for being honest and truthful, with everything!!! You do such an awesome job with your quilting and what you give of yourself to everyone!!! There is absolutely no reason to apologize!!!! Thank you for everything you do!!! Hugs!!!!!🥰😘

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  41. Many of us second your emotions and turmoil. Unfortunately, you have a business that places you in the public eye, with which others would choose to use as a weapon against you to silence and suppress you — much like our treacherous President has done and continues to try to do in both his business and now political life. We can only hope and pray that good prevails over evil and God blesses and watches over us all.

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  42. I agree with what you are feeling and saying. We cannot be silent if we want a democracy. The history of Germany and what happened with Hitler are to much like what has been happening. I am reminded also of Aritha Franklins song Respect today.



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  43. You owe no apologies!!! Thank you for everything you do!!! You are greatly appreciated!!!! Many Hugs!!!!🥰😘

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  44. Agree Bonnie . Thank you for being you. 💕

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  45. You express perfectly how I feel and your quilt does too!
    Thank you for writing!

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  46. Thank you. When you said it really does say it all.
    "But it's not political. It's moral. It's about decency, and respect.

    I have not felt this way since the planes took down the twin towers on 9/11.

    I feel like nothing is sacred any more.

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  47. I think that new quilt should be called Hope. It, like most of us, is broken currently. But there is always Hope. Hope will bring us together and make this country whole again. It takes many pieces to make a whole. We can do it, one stitch at a time.

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  48. Bonnie, I feel the same as you. We can have political differences but our country has gone way past that. Where’s’s the decency? Respect? And truth? We’re all going to have to stand up for the kind of moral behavior we want to save our country.

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  49. Yes that quilt is perfect for what was going on yesterday. I love the binding, is that one fabric or pieced?

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  50. You said it Beautifully!! Thank you for sharing what many of us are also feeling. Agree with you totally ...

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  51. Much of 2020 and into 2021 has been sad for me, at one level or another - months, and months of riots and nastiness, yesterday's was not the first, COVID, personal health issues, health issues and/or deaths in close friends' families.
    We may feel like it's never happened before, but our "history" tends to begin with our personal memories. While we may feel like we're surrounded by a sea of uncertainty, we're still in a better place than our predecessors were with wars, plagues, and so on. Remote working, and other ways of maintaining a life would not have been possible in years past. I have to admit I tire of being called "stupid" by extended family members and others because my core beliefs (I do not support rioting!)may differ from theirs. I may not understand how they can think the way they do, but I do not return the call of "stupid" and and tell them they don't deserve anything.
    For me, I may feel hopeless much of the time, thinking normal life will never come again, but my underlying faith gets me through, as it has through numerous times before.

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    1. You just saved me from explaining how I feel, because you captured my emotions perfectly, and I, too, have felt this way since the mobs rioted and burned cities with no intervention from authorities. I've been so sad for so long now.

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  52. I would call this quilt Desert Birds after the poem The Second Coming by William Butler Yeats.

    It recalls this lines from the poem:
    “Things fall apart; the center cannot hold.”
    https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/43290/the-second-coming

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  53. I stand with you! Yesterday was horrifying. Anyone who disagrees, belongs in prison with those arrested.

    I love your quilt and it totally represents yesterday in the USA.

    Hugs to you. May our new President bring us together somehow in the middle where we can move Democracy forward.

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  54. If you are at a loss for words just imagine how I am explaining this to my 11 year old girl kid...but I have been trying for the last 4 years...sadly it sounds like a bus load of insurrectionists came from my state...now I am off to order something I don't need from your site as a sign of support...

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  55. All decent people are appalled by the events of yesterday, brought about by the past four years and injustices reaching back years. Your blog has been a comfort these past days, particularly as the pandemic has raged. Please take comfort that sharing your days helps the rest of us get thru ours.

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  56. I think I would call the quilt broken.
    Broken is my spirit, my faith, my drive.
    Why oh why must it all be my way or the highway, everyone has an opinion and has a right to voice it. I am one that keeps silent on social media because I do not like to be a stand out. Bonnie, keep your head up and truck on.

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  57. This has long been a question of morality and humanity. Your willingness to speak out is a clear demonstration of what makes you moral and human. And we agree with your need to do so.

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  58. Agree with you Bonnie. Love your site and all you do for the quilting community. Hugs!

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  59. Well said Bonnie!
    Love that strinp quilt, will immitate :)

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  60. Bonnie I so understand where you are coming from. I sat in fear watching what was happening at the capital. I too pray there can be healing over the coming years.

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  61. I think the quilt should simply be named ‘Pandemic’ . Big hugs Bonnie. Lord knows we all need a few these days.

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  62. Amen sister. Right there with you.

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  63. I am happy to see you post how you feel. I get concerned for you when I see you struggle with the nasty people that harass and threaten you. YOu are first and foremost a kind and caring person. Then you are an awesome, talented, giving quilter and teacher! I stand with you as do many of your valued followers. I know there will be fallout in my own group of acquantices and while it makes me sad I can't not be me. Thank you for being you! I am off to shop at the Quiltville store :-)

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  64. Bonnie, it was your thoughts , your life and your blog. It was not about anyone, it was what your were feeling. I know it is hard to do, but ignore those that want to cause you grief. It’s not worth your time or worry. You can change them. You can only pray for sanity and peace to guide us all through these trying times. Keep being true to yourself and it will be okay. Thank you for sharing your life and quilting.

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  65. My heart broke along with that window as the mob entered. Thanks Bonnie for sharing how you feel.
    I am holding on to the thought of people getting vaccinated, the senate have a 50 50 divide now... I look forward to the light.

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  66. Yea..I agree. I'm hungover with Disgust.

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  67. With you I pray we can ALL come together in the coming year.....if we don’t listen to each other this won’t happen...

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  68. So we’ll said Bonnie and the comments I’ve read. God bless our country and all of us.

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  69. With you I pray we can ALL come together in the coming year.....if we don’t listen to each other this won’t happen...

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  70. Bless you and May God Bless the USA. I know the world is praying for us. In a great many ways and reasons

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  71. I'm with you 100%, and felt exactly the same yesterday. Well said!!

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  72. You said it well. I agree with you. Let's hope we can heal from this and learn to work together for a common goal..our country was tried yesterday and found lacking! We have been fed lie after lie and encouraged to hate. Bonnie, you are a breath of reason. Sending hugs. Stay true to yourself!

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  73. God bless us, everyone. The quilt is perfect.

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  74. I think there were thousands there yesterday expressing what you expressed here, some disguising their true colors. I have a very real fear for this country and what the future holds sadly. I do love that quilt!!!

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    1. So glad to hear you express your feelings even just a little bit, though with carefully chosen words. Though I thought I had done that with a comment on someone's post once, and they didn't take it the way I meant it (around election time). They didn't want to hear anything that even hinted that someone thought differently than they did. (I removed the comment after a private conversation). Extreme thinking and intolerance for others leads to trouble.

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  75. Bless you! Hugs and love and the warmth of a soft quilt are being sent your way.

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  76. Maybe the quilt needs to be called "Chaos and Covid-2020" or just plain "2020". The last months will always carry a blight on the history of our country and, hopefully, some will learn from them and history will never be repeated! Find calm in your beautiful area of the country and let God heal your emotional wounds. You are a true patriot!

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  77. I SO agree with you! This is the worst day I have ever seen in the USA. Yes, I was here on Dec. 7, 1941 although no old enough to remember more than I have learned. And 911 .. well both of these events were done by others, NOT be Americans. This is by far the worst day ever. I am at a loss for words. Shock and tears have taken over.

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  78. I think it's so sad that we had to experience the horrific events of yesterday. There is no sense to it at all. Your voice on your page spoke in a load voice the ire of a lot of us. Thank you for taking the stage for those of us who don't have a stage. Bless you and please carry on. You and your love of quilting feeds my soul. Thank you.

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  79. Thank you, Bonnie! Your words are perfect...reasonable,yet full of the emotions true Americans feel. These are troubling times when our quilt activities and quilting friends provide comfort and support. Let's try to put our pieces back together to make our country stronger for all! ��

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  80. Thank you, Bonnie! Your words are perfect...reasonable,yet full of the emotions true Americans feel. These are troubling times when our quilt activities and quilting friends provide comfort and support. Let's try to put our pieces back together to make our country stronger for all! ��

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  81. I agree! The quilt pattern is appropriate for what we are feeling, jagged and not coming together smoothly. But that doesn't mean I don't like the quilt- it is "way cool".

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  82. He and all our electeds swore an oath to protect & defend the Constitution of the United States... I am horrified that this is being ignored and terrified that our long-standing peaceful transition of power way, may be torn asunder...I am embarrassed for our country and yet hopeful, that our more thoughtful persons will prevail... as to you, Bonnie, and your feelings... so far we are free in this country to express ourselves, our thoughts, out emotions... if people leave your site because you have strong emotions and feel the need to express them? too bad, so long... I'm pretty sure, MOST of us are having similar if not exactly the same emotions from one edge of the spectrum to the other. Prayers and blessings for all of us, courage and positive thoughts... thanks to you, we all can feel what we feel... and also yup, the quilting helps occupy that hamster on the wheel that keeps resolving nothing. Hugs... Cats in Carlsbad CA

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  83. Bonnie you are a decent, loving person. Please stay that way! Respect you immensley.

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  84. Bonnie, your emotional honesty is one of the reasons I read your blog each morning. I honor & value that honesty in all relationships. You are a treasure - Thank You! This string quilt is a perfect metaphor for these days! I love you & look forward to both reading your blog & trying to come to a retreat whenever we get this danged pandemic over with.

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  85. I, too, was brought to tears by yesterday's events. I am not a Trump supporter & am hoping that those who invaded our capitol weren't either but were adgitators that seized tbe opportunity. My mantra at times like this is "This too shall pass." I like my brother's too: don't let the buzzards get you down.

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  86. I think you should name the quilt "Ode to 2020" simply because it visually represents the many disconcerting things of this year.

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  87. If I finish my string quilt I may use this setting and call it "Not Seeing 20/20!

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  88. Sending much love and support to you - it’s been horrifying watching events in the USA unfold. Your quilt is beautiful, and your ability to make connections between it and the current events demonstrates your artistry. May we all find outlets to help us understand and work through the trauma being inflicted right now.

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  89. I think if more had put morality and decency above profit we would never have gotten to yesterday.

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  90. Yesterday I was glued to my tv , watching in disbelief, anguish, and rage. This isn't about politics, it's about morals, integrity, and truth. What has happened to our country over the last 4 years has kept my blood pressure and depression fighting to see which would wipe me out first! Quilting has saved my sanity and keeps me from acting out on my rage. Your daily posts are a highlight. As far as what you post on your personal page, it's your page...your life..your emotions. I have unfriended and blocked family and former friends over some of these issues. For me, it's about morals and ethics, both of which are sadly lacking in some political areas.
    Keep on letting us be a part of your journey.
    Much love from my house to yours

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    1. I agree, quilting is a refuge-a way to positively impact others. I found myself at the ironing board pressing gray string blocks whilst listening to the events unfolding.

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    2. Excellent sentiments. I feel the same.

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  91. I share your discomfort and stray thoughts and feelings about the happenings at the Capitol yesterday. And I am glad you shared some of them with us, your online community/family. I feel that my feelings of security and safety are being compromised and that is train enough for me to have concern.
    I also wanted to let you know that I totally get your description of your recently finished quilt and I love both the quilt and your description of it! I totally agree!! Thank you Bonnie!

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  93. I spent the night with the song "Sound of silence" running through my head. We must be able to speak for what is just and right and I am so very proud of you for speaking out.

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  94. Thank you, Bonnie, and hugs to you.

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  95. Glued to the TV yesterday, here in Canada, watching the incomprehensible things happening! Couldn't really find the right words yesterday, & still having trouble today! Sending you my 100% support, because you did find the words! Praying that your country starts to heal now.

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  96. Your quilt is so appropriate. Yesterday was a shock, almost as bad, if not worse than 9-ll. Your thoughts are your feelings, this is your blog and we should all respect that. You give so much and I for one appreciate you every day. I even miss you on Sundays. May God give you and all of us peace during this difficult times. Have a better day today.

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  97. I am sorry your personal words were used against you professionally. You are human, and you have every right to your feelings. You may have lost some followers/customers, but you have many more still here. Sending healing thoughts and support!

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  98. So I have not quilted for a few years and it was just luck (although I prefer to think it was karma) that I found you on facebook just before xmas and I am incredibly proud of your stance and agree it has nothing to do with politics, just basic morals and respect for the process. I am not sure I can spend enough to cover the leavers - but I will do my best

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  99. I would call your quilt Nerves on Edge. It has that static electrity look when things are going on beyond your control and it eats at your sense of security and well being. Hang in there Bonnie, your morals are worth more than $$$.

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  100. I think you have said how most of us are feeling. I am in Canada and we were reeling from shock too. You keep on being you...that is why I read your blog. It is not just a sales pitch...it is heartfelt and sincere. Thanks, Shuna

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  101. Well said.For many this will be a good place to start.

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  102. Thank you for your rays of sunshine every morning. It doesn't matter what the actual weather is - I can count on you to start my day with your insights on quilting and life. Some days I feel very isolated, but you are like the lovely lady next door who comes over with cookies and a cup of tea to visit for a while. You are allowed to have opinions, just like I am. We don't always have to agree, but we always take the time to listen. Thanks for being there for me every morning!

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  103. Thank you Bonnie. You wrote what so many of us are feeling. Yes, I agree...your quilt expresses perfectly what happened in our country yesterday. Well said Bonnie.

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  104. Bonnie, your beautiful quilt certainly does pin down the feelings of what we are experiencing. Among our freedoms in America is the freedom of speech, however, this does not provide the right to violence nor does it allow people the right to shove their will down the throats of others through intimidation and derision. We desperately need a change to bring us back together as one nation. I fully believe that calmer voices will prevail and we will return to a more civilized government system. Hang in there. You have hundreds of thousands of supporters around the globe. Things will get better!

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  105. God bless you for the courage to say all that's on your heart. I agree 100%. Your analogy with the quilt is a God wink to me and everyone. I am so saddened by what transpired. Wishing you continuing blessings.

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  106. We as a people are jagged and raw. We need leadership and it hasn't been coming from our elected "leaders" . No I am not picking on one party or the other. Hope, pray and believe it will be better if we the people work at shaping it to what is important.

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  107. Please don’t apologize for your feelings. Remember the Doctor Seuss quote “Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.” We come to your blog daily for you, we love you and all you do, ignore the haters. I’m 100% with you only 911 rivals my feelings about yesterday. Unfortunately yesterday’s animals were rioting at the behest of the leader of our country and were Americans. A very sad day for all Americans, pray for our democracy. January 20 cannot come quickly enough...

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  108. I feel that standing in the shadows and remaining silent back in 2016 was my biggest mistake. I certainly was not going to make that mistake twice even it it means I loose a friend or upset a family member. Stay strong and stay safe.

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  109. Thank you for your voice on this shameful disgrace in our country. Quilters do not live in a vacuum.

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  110. You express how so many of us feel, thank you! I think those that choose to leave because of your thoughts and ideas are free to do so-the rest of us will not miss them! Hugs to you and Prayers for all of us!

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  111. ((Hugs)). I think most of us are feeling the same way. There was a time yesterday that I was actually ashamed to be American...until I decided to NOT let the thugs of yesterday define me alongside of them. Hoping that tomorrow and the rest of our days get better.

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  112. I have been concerned for our country since the "elections" were over. This bedlam is frustration gone wild. Stay away from TV.

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  113. This undercurrent of hatred of our form of government has been under the surface for a long time. I hate that it was embraced by our leadership. I couldn't sleep last night. I hope for better for us individually and as a nation.

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  114. Don't know if you have a name for that quilt yet, but I call it "Shattered."

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    1. That is the name that came to me too when I first saw this quilt. It expresses my feelings now exactly.

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  115. Dear Bonnie,
    I came for the quilting, but I stay for you. I have come to view you as a friend, albeit a virtual friend. I hope someday to meet you in real life, but until then, I shall support you as a wonderful, smart, caring human being. Kind Regards, Mary

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  116. I don’t know if somebody mentioned it yet but “Fractured Hope” would describe the quilt and the times we’re in. You have been blessed because you have empathy and a humanitarian heart. Thank you for sharing your soul. We love and respect you. Thank you. Louise

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  117. Thank you, I am feeling the same. The quilt looks much like I am feeling about 2020. The political climate in this country has become too divisive. Why can't we agree to disagree, but continue to listen to others. Life isn't an either or existence, every moment is an opportunity to find common ground. Quilting is the common ground for everyone who follows your blog.

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    1. You are so right...we can be respectful of each other no matter if we agree or not. I think Social media has made people say things they wouldn't say in person. It has desensitized us. Let's go back to respecting each individual's right to his/her opinion...and that includes Bonnie!

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  118. 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏❤️

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  119. It would be more worrisome if you didn't have comments after an event such as this. We are all appalled by the behavior of those involved.
    There are always going to be those who will oppose everything we say, as is their right but we don't have to allow their vitriol into our own lives. All we can do is live the best we can and keep working to do the right thing and be honorable. We can move past this. ♥♥♥

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  120. I was encouraged last night as members of Congress - both Democrat and Republican - condemned the riots and then went on to complete their duties. They would not be stopped in their constitutional duties. While looking at your quilt and reading your comments, along with others suggesting names, one thought came to my mind: E Pluribus Unum - out of many, one. Your many pieces, when looked at individually, may not "work" with the piece next to it but when joined together, they form one beautiful quilt.

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  121. Call it Beauty in Chaos. Hugs from Montana.

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  122. I felt the way you did. It was so sad watching it. I became angry that these people invaded our Capitol. I'm so with you.

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  123. Yesterday was horrifying. I too retreated to my quilt space to create, recharge, refresh. I love your new quilt. I too hope for healing and repairing of the rifts in our society.

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  124. For wordsfailing,Bonnie, you were very eloquent. You captured the essence...

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  125. You said it well and you said what I hope most of us were thinking.

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  126. Thank you, Bonnie. Same, same.. no words, all the feels, love and appreciation for you. - lori

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  127. It was a meme yesterday but when I reflect, oh my: 2016:It's only 4 years, how bad can it get? 2021: Are the armed insurrectionists storming the capital aware there is a plague ravishing the land? So scary how far we have fallen, in our own eyes and in the eyes of the world. How many dictators are shouting with glee right now, how many nut cases has this encouraged? I am truly terrified. Thank you for the courage to stand up.

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  128. My husband keeps telling me, "We'll get through this." I certainly hope so. We support you, Bonnie!

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    1. I think he’s right. This last episode is the flare of a dying order. Bravo Bonnie for your courage and eloquence!

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  129. Amen to all of it. You could call your beautiful quilt "Fractured," a word that could describe the personal inner turmoil and angst, many of our relationships, our country, and our culture. It also describes how I've felt inside since losing my husband in 2019. Quilting to hold onto my sanity since then for sure. Love you. Hang in there with the rest of us. We will quilt through it all together.

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  130. Call this quilt CHAOS - I actually love this quilt

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  131. Comparing what has happened at the Capital, with our President, to 911 is a good description. I'm still in shock and my heart is heavy. Some have said it will be interesting to see how historians capture this all and share for those 50 years down the road. No matter how I look at it, it is not a good part of our history. We all need to listen, speak, negotiate peacefully. Either way Bonnie, I will happily follow you proudly. You are not just filled with amazing creativity, but you are a decent person with a big heart who values doing the right thing. Big virtual hug. Keep walking to the tune you hear in your heart.

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  132. I couldn’t find words to describe how I felt yesterday. I was glued to the news - and we rarely watch it normally. I couldn’t quilt or find anything to escape into.

    I found your blog due to quilting, but enjoy your sharing of other topics too.

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  133. Well said Bonnie. I hope our country will learn from this and heal!

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  134. Thank you for your words that seem to describe my similar feelings. All I can say is Love Wins. Everybody. Love wins everybody in the end. We're not at the end. Hang in there and keep being real, honest, true, searching to grow and learn.

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  135. Well said, Bonnie. I'm so concerned that this type of horrendous behavior will continue once he's out of office. This is a VERY sick man. He should have been removed from office 4 yrs ago. With any luck we'll come out stronger from this terrible time in US history.
    Please keep posting your views. This is YOUR blog site & no one has the right to tell you what & what not you can say.

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  136. I feel your pain and I live with my husband who is a supporter and last night he came pretty close to me yelling I was a liar. Of what!! I will bury myself in sewing until it passes.

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  137. Thanks for being real. Love you and appreciate your daily sharing. Quilting brings us together.

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  138. You have gotten me thru so much with your teaching, family, and pets. Thank you for being my friend. Now how about snow? Live in Louisiana, snow??? What is that???

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  139. I think I'll make a quilt like the one you showcase and name it January 7th. I'll also copy your thoughts and keep them with the quilt because they so fully match my own. Thank you for you thoughts!

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  140. Bonnie,
    Thank you for your words, hard as they must be to write. I agree with you. And, love the quilt!

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  141. Bonnie, we are all feeling raw after yesterday’s violence. Never in our lives have we felt our democracy in such peril. Your quilt really does fit our feelings at this time in history. We all need healing after being subjected to so many lies this past year. You said what we are all feeling today. Our community of quilters is wonderful. We promote peace, reason & community, regardless of individual differences. I hope the coming months heal our country & secure a brighter future for us all. Hugs to you. I agree with everything you said.

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  142. Thank you Bonnie. For your words. For your calm. For your heartfelt feelings. Thank you Bonnie.

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  143. I support your feelings and your right to say them.

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  144. I support your feelings and your right to express them.

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  145. Boy does this quilt ever speak to me right now. This country is fractured right down to its very soul. The chaos and anger that has been boiling over the last 4 years certainly came to a head yesterday. I want to drop everything and make a quilt like this. Thank you for sharing this with us.

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  146. Your words didn't fail. Your/our leader failed. Your words eloquently spoke to our heartache yesterday. If we, as middle class white women, were this appalled, just think how this has affected our brothers and sisters without our class and race privilege. For those of us who pray, prayers like we haven't made since 9/11 and the first Gulf War are in order for a peaceful transition of power.

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  147. This quilt can remind us that though we're all different, we can work together to accomplish good things.

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  148. I made a quilt 2 years ago called "Fractured" and have not felt connected to it. Thanks for showing us your quilt and reminding me of mine. Mine is connected but jagged. I love all the names people are suggesting. I think now my quilt can offer me some comfort because I can relate to your post today. 100% agree with you, Bonnie. Keep on doing what you do so wonderfully. Love and Blessings!

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  149. I think that most of us were shocked by yesterdays happenings. It seems so wrong to think that when our capital building was attacked, it was by Americans rather than by terrorists. That is just so wrong.

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  150. I was like you yesterday. I had such fear for all of the Senators and the workers, the police, everyone who was supposed to be there. I watched and cried and at times yelled at the rioters although it did no good. I think I am too old for this. I love all of your quilts. HUGS, Bonnie.

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  151. Hugs to you Bonnie. We are all shocked and hurting.

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  152. Seeing the positive posts above, I am hopeful that we will heal the division in our country. Thank you for opening your heart to us.

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  153. Bonnie, I couldn’t even find the words to describe how I felt yesterday. The only thing I could muster was sad. Thank you for voicing what so many of us are feeling. I am relatively new to your blog and so appreciate how you share your life with us. We get a peek into your life via an electronic diary. It is unfortunate that some cannot accept that this is a personal blog. Your unnamed quilt is beautiful! Maybe, it should remain unnamed, so that it can speak differently to each person who sees it. I heard a pastor share on the radio that someone else (I don’t remember the name) said their favorite saying “in the Bible is ‘came to pass,’ because if it came to pass, it didn’t come to stay.” May 2021 be a brighter year for all!

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  154. I felt so much like you. In fact, I told my husband this morning that the last time I was so emotionally attached to the news was at 9/11. And that political affiliations are irrelevant when we are talking about bringing down democracy. Hugs from KY.

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  155. Thank you Bonnie for being my friend and sharing yourself.

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  156. Thank you for your words Bonnie ... I agree with you 100% & I appreciate you for standing up & saying how you feel. I thought I was the only one that compared the feeling that the actions of yesterday reminded them of 911. I am so sad for our country, I am so sad that this is the America that my 6 year old granddaughter is growing up in. Thank you again for your words.

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  157. Thank you, Bonnie, for putting into words what most of us are feeling. Your daily posts are bright spots in the day. As many others have said, you are like a part of our family. Good shall prevail. Sending love and virtual hugs to you!

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  158. Thank you Bonnie! Know that many following you are equally broken by the events of the day, turning to quilting to try to settle and comfort our souls, and praying for the stabilization and future of our nation.

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  159. If you view a 8x8 block, it looks like a fractured granny square. Maybe call it Fractured Granny Strips. Hugs to you and all of those hurting today. I think we all need some goofy Zoey pix today!

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  160. Today I choose to feel hopeful. Thank you, Bonnie

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  161. Above all else; thank you for your honesty. I agree with you.

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  162. Bravo, Bonnie! It's your blog, it's your life. We support you.

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  163. A new day...One foot in front of the other...I have been waiting and wondering what happened to this quilt....I love it! I remember you working on it during a quilt cam. Will you be posting the pattern? I certainly hope so, I so want to make this!!! Hang in there Bonnie. A day at a time. If not I would lose my sanity. You go! We are all with you!!

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  164. I hope you understand these words :”l love you Bonnie”. You are real, You’re a good person. You feel deeply. I appreciate who you are, your hard work & desire to share. 💕
    Each of us must learn to deal with life’s issues. One of the hardest things I think in becoming aware, as an adult, a Christian, a wife, mom & gramma is that ultimately I can only make myself better, with God’s help. I can’t control the people around me who make bad choices, even if it affects me. I refuse to be molded by ppl doing wrong things.
    Each of us may have a different reason to be sad for yesterday. Your quilt is definitely a representation of our world right now.
    I want to be connected to others of like mindedness. We all find some healing in creating... I will pray, I will be grateful. And I will quilt!! Blessings everyone!!

    Marci H

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  165. I have become very numb to the violence that happened yesterday in the capital since my local government has allowed the same sort of violence to happen in my hometown every night for more nights than not...They pretty much stopped giving a count after day 100. Portland for months looked like a war zone. Buildings boarded up and graffiti everywhere. Businesses looted and burned. Looks like 1/4 of the businesses are gone in the downtown core. One of my favorite seafood restaurants that is 113 years old looks like it will be unable to survive between the lockdowns and the violence there is just no one visiting downtown. Lives changed and not a word by the government against Antifa for the nightly damage. I am angry and sad with what happened yesterday but they don’t get my sympathy. The lives destroyed by our governments inaction against the terrorist group gets my sympathy not the fat cats in Washington who stood by and did nothing to condemn them or in my local government.

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  166. Insurrection. Well said Bonnie. I felt that same as you yesterday. I believe most of Americans feel the same. I have to believe. Otherwise I will fall down a dark hole and Trump will have power over me. I will not let that happen. That quilt could not have been more appropriate to display.

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  167. I add my small voice with yours Bonnie and all those that have been brave enough to say enough is enough. We are better than this. We must be better than this for our children’s future, our country’s future, our world’s future! Thank you for all you say and do. You are an inspiration to many in more than just quilting. Carry on speaking out for moral values.

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  168. Something in me yesterday broke and it will take time to heal. We have so many freedoms and so many have fought for us to have those freedoms. A few are trying to take them away and show no respect or decency for what we have, It makes a mockery of all that has been sacrificed for us to be free. Somehow it needs to stop! I believe everyone has a right to free speech but not destruction and violence because that does not help. Thank you Bonnie for showing your heart and love for what America needs now.... compassion and decency from it's people.

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  169. I am in Scotland and was glued to CNN to watch the horror unfold in your country. I feel for you all and just hope things will improve. Your quilt describes it to a T. I do want to visit that building in the future and hope it can be all put back together the way it was. Obviously as far as I am concerned it is not the politics as I am not in your country but just feel the sadness and anger at the damage caused.

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  170. Yesterdays events were just another chapter in the violent protests that have been plaguing this country for months. People are scared. There has been illness, job loss and so much uncertainty that people need to gain some sense of control, so they blindly follow like sheep.
    This too will pass and something else will take it's place. Another soapbox to crawl up on.
    I am just grateful that I don't have television and seldom read the news. I choose to do my crafts and stay close to the ones I love. I am not in denial but refuse to let all of this take control of my life.
    Have a Happy Quilty Day!

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  171. Bonnie, may you know and feel that you are loved, by all of us who have been blessed by the truth which you live by every day (and blog daily for over 15 years). You need not apologize to me for feeling disillusioned, sad, fearful, or disappointed at the sights recorded in our capital. Your words and sharing of your experiences have brought me so much comfort and joy every day. Love your quilt, Fractured Union...

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  172. Hugs to you, Bonnie. We are all heart sore after yesterday and need to take our healing paths. Thank you for your heart felt messages-always be true to yourself!

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  173. Thank you for speaking up. Words do matter.

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