All is well!
Yesterday was such an emotional roller coaster knowing my grown man-child was in the operating room to remove a large tumor from his brain as I was here holding down the fort - driving on a beautiful autumn morning over to the retreat where the Brown Bird Bee ladies were departing.
My wonderful second grown man child Jeff stayed with me all day.
It is at this stage of life where we appreciate who our grown children have become.
There were video calls and phone calls and text messages throughout the entire process, there surgery itself lasting about 4 hours.
The tearful call from Dave letting me know that he was out of surgery and in recovery before moving him to the ICU was filled with so much relief.
Then later that day, a phone call - me at first thinking it was Dave, but it was Jason himself - his voice raspy after recovering from anesthesia and intubation. "It's me, mom."
So many tears, so much gratitude.
He will likely remain in ICU through today, and hopefully tomorrow will be moved to a rehab floor.
My view from here.
There are even fewer leaves on the trees this morning - I took this photo on Monday morning before a huge wind storm blew through...
I am finding rest for my soul in the beauty of nature and the turn of seasons.
Down the drive.
Jeff stayed the night with me so he could be on hand for anything that I needed. And here I am thinking that I am still his mom and taking care of whatever HE needs.
It's a weird stage of life when we give over always being the caretaker and let the children take the reins, isn't it?
I mentioned that I've been in a cleaning frenzy since Saturday.
That also means the fridge and the freezer were hit, and it came in really handy for lats night's dinner.
It all started with a half-bag of white northern beans I found in the back of the cupboard. "Are you too old to cook up soft?" I asked the beans before throwing them in the crockpot, covering them with boiling water and setting the pot on low to soak overnight.
By morning they WERE soft. I have no idea how old those beans were and I admit to not always having good luck with dried beans.
So I dug through the freezer, finding half a bag of mixed veggies that were well on their way to frozen too long, and a freezer bag containing the remains of leftover pork tenderloin I had placed in there at some unknown date.
I added chopped onion, chopped celery, some chicken broth, a random can of enchilada sauce, some taco seasoning and let it simmer all day.
"Clean Out Soup"??? It was delicious for last night's dinner with Jeff and I have enough to freeze a couple of containers for the guys to have while I am with Jason.
It just goes to prove that when the going gets tough, the moms get cooking and cleaning.
I leave to go stay with Jason on November 2nd. That means I've got more than a week to keep up the cleaning/organizing/re-nesting streak.
Oh, and the photo at the top? Jeff and I watched a couple of movies last night and I started in on one side border that will complete the design at the quilt sides.
I'm saving the motifs for my travel out to Portland and the 2 weeks I'll be spending with Jason.
Finishing up stitching down the binding and hanging sleeve with Zoey snuggling close. She knows something is "different." Two weeks for dad to be gone is a long time.
It's done. All done. As the autumn color leaves us - this one is done.
I love how this piece of toile picked up in Paris worked with this quilt.
The fabric was a bit heavier than traditional quilting cotton, but it works. This fabric has just been waiting for the right job, and I'm glad it found a home here.
The last time I sat at a machine to sew was when I was putting the binding on Brookgreen. My mind has just been other places.
Now that Jason is post surgery and we are looking forward to his healing, the machine may just begin to call me again.
I nearly have enough Four Patch Fun Leader & Ender blocks to start thinking about a layout. How is yours coming along?
Did you enter to win on the Lahinch Gift-Away post? Click back there if you missed it.
Introductory pricing: I've placed the Lahinch PDF pattern at 25% off - no coupon needed -through 10/31/25. Hurry now and save!
Simple shapes and easy piecing create a stunning repeat of pattern and secondary designs – All from a photo taken of a vintage tile floor white traveling. Full color photos, Optional piecing methods, and directions to press for success!
Quilt size: 80'' X 80''
And yes, there IS a Gift-Away!
I'll be drawing for two winners who will each receive a Lahinch PDF pattern from me AND:
An Atlantic Sky color roll from Cotton to Quilts. And yes, they have other rolls to enhance your stash as well:
Along with the beautiful Atlantic Sky roll, they've got other Ireland themed rolls in all of the rich colors you need from Golden Sand to Cliffs of Moher (Chocolate) and Autumn Heather (Pumpkin).And be sure to check out the neutral rolls as well!
Of course, you can envision your own color plan for Lahinch Just choose 4 colors that you like together and add a background where I used lighter sand.
We will draw for our winners on Monday 10/27/25.
Quiltville Quote of the Day -
After all the worry, stress and emotional upheaval, to come out the other side is a wonderful feeling!
Son Jason still has a long road ahead, but I feel some therapeutic retail therapy coming on.
I understand that Fiddlesticks quilt shop is less than a mile from his place!
I am breathing deeply - in with gratitude, and out with relief. Repeat. Repeat. Repeat.
The October Quiltvillians are on their way in today -
Life is good!
I'm so glad your son's surgery was successful and that he is on the road to recovery. You and your family will continue to be in my thoughts. -Zermeena
ReplyDeleteSo glad to hear this good news, Bonnie! Family really is everything.
ReplyDeleteSally
I am so happy to hear that Jason's surgery went well. As the mom of a grown man child, I can only imagine what you were going through. Please know that I will keep Jason and all of you in my prayers.
ReplyDeleteIt is a relief for us, your fellow quilters, to know Jason's surgery is behind him. And how wonderful your son, Jeff, came to your side for moral support. You are an inspiration. Keeping you all in my thoughts and sending wishes to Jason for his complete recovery.
ReplyDeleteI cried reading your good news about Jason. My 40 year old daughter went thru a medical nightmare 2 years ago and it really makes us parents feel our age! Glad he is doing so well!
ReplyDeleteSo glad the surgery is over with. I know you can’t wait to wrap your arms around him. Continued prayers he heals quickly.
ReplyDeleteHi Bonnie, so glad to hear that your son is on the mend. It's so hard as a parent to have your kids ill or hurt. I always wanted to take their pain and suffering on myself . I just have one question....are you taking a featherweight machine with you when you stay with your son while he recuperates? 😉 God bless and keep you all Bonnie in SE CT
ReplyDeleteDear Bonnie and family just reading that Jason could speak with you after surgery brings happy tears. Will continue to keep you all in my thoughts❤️ Kathy
ReplyDeleteWonderful news ! You had the best phone call a mother could get! Wishing Jason a speedy recovery 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
ReplyDeleteThank you, God, for this blessing of Jason's surgery and please keep Jason and his family in the palm of your hand while he recovers. Still wishing I could give you a lot of hugs and chocolates while you wait to go to see him.
ReplyDeleteOh, Bonnie! Can I just tell you how glad I was to hear that your son called you after his surgery? I literally cried happy tears. What a glorious day, right? This will not stop all of us from praying for a wonderful recovery. I am taking your mantra from the end of today's blog post and using it myself. I love it. God Bless!!
ReplyDeletePrayers answered. I found myself crying with relief with you. Pray his recovery goes well. Becky
ReplyDeleteSo very, very glad to hear that son Jason is starting on his road to recovery today!
ReplyDeleteSuch good news for you & your family. Sending more good thoughts your way as the healing begins 😘😘
ReplyDeleteWhat a relief and good news for Jason and his family. I know you will feel better when you have your arms around him. Prayers for a full recovery and peace of mind for you.
ReplyDeleteThanks for letting us know :0) Prayers for all the Hunters!
ReplyDeleteI am so happy to hear the good news for you and your family. May his recovery be speedy. Sending more prayers and thoughts to you. 🥰
ReplyDeleteSo happy that Jason's surgery went well. Sending virtual hugs to all of you from Maine. Can't wait for the Brookgreen pattern. Looks like fun.
ReplyDelete"It is at this stage of life where we appreciate who our grown children have become." Thank you, Bonnie ~Dallas D
ReplyDeleteFantastic Bonnie! I can't imagine the joy you felt when Jason called you yesterday! I'm so happy for you all. Kudos to Jeff for being there with you. Best wishes for Jason in his recovery, Jenny
ReplyDeleteLast year our daughters (from Portland!) took turns staying with us and helping out while my husband recovered from an infection in his leg which made it impossible for him to walk or drive. This year they did the same for me while I recovered from breast cancer surgery. Their help was above & beyond & we’re so grateful for their help. Nancy Borgeson, Grass Lake, MI
ReplyDeleteSuch great news, Bonnie! Hugs from Georgia.
ReplyDeleteSo glad to hear that the surgery was successful. Now comes the equally hard work of recovery. Blessings to all of you.
ReplyDeleteI was thinking about you and Jason all day yesterday. It brought tears to my eyes this morning to read that surgery went well and that he was able to call you. What a blessing. How very thoughtful of Jeff to be with you all day yesterday and through the night, another blessing. Fran in WA
ReplyDeleteI’m so glad surgery is behind him. To hear his voice. Amazing. 💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗,Jackie
ReplyDeleteI've had the same experience with a man-child; also letting the same man child take care of me! Ellen T.
ReplyDeleteMe too...mine flew 500 miles to sit with me in the waiting room while husband had surgery. Just his being there kept me calm and allowed me to scoot home for a few minutes to see to the pets, which really helped.
DeleteSo grateful you weren't alone all day. Prayers answered. The leftover soup at my house was called refrigerator dinner. Have a good hump day.
ReplyDeleteWhew. Great news about Jason’s surgery!! its amazing how quickly they move from surgery to rehabilitation! It’s all good. Any thoughts about taking a sewing machine with you? You already know there’s a quilt shop nearby. Or maybe one of your local fans have a machine you can borrow…..
ReplyDeleteSo so happy for you and your family!!! Continuing with prayers for a speedy recovery! Carolyn Thompson
ReplyDeletePrayers for your son and your entire family.
ReplyDeleteLove the quilt in browns. Thanks for being you.
Sharon M
So glad to read this today. I’m glad you were not alone through the day and night. We quilters will all keep praying for Jason’s recovery. ❤️🩹 Debbie Koczela
ReplyDeleteWhat wonderful news, so glad Jason's surgery went well and he is on the mend. Such a relief. Sending so much love and well wishes to you all. And if you are able to make it to Fiddlesticks, you will love it. Cheran, the owner, is the sweetest. Such a lovely shop. -Anne VanDeWege
ReplyDeleteI saw your instagram post and hopped over here to the blog to get the details. So so glad to hear that Jason is doing well after surgery. I hope you can catch up on sleep now that the first and most serious stage of treatment is over. I agree that it is a blessing how our children grow up and become supporters and helpers.
ReplyDeleteDear Bonnie,
ReplyDeleteThank God Jason came through his surgery without a hitch. What a GREAT GRACE! You are blessed to have had Jeff at your side, day and night, helping things run smoothly. I think every one who is reading your blog is sitting with a kleenex box, crying tears of joy. You are a BLESSED woman, Thanks Be to God!!!
CML
Such good news and know that God will continue to keep his healing hand on Jason as he goes through recovery. Prayers continue for Jason and your family.
ReplyDeletePrayers and good thoughts still coming your way -- blessings for all of you!!
ReplyDeleteGod bless your family, Bonnie! What a relief to read such a good note that your son was able to call you! Hugs to all of you!
ReplyDeleteWonderful to hear your son is through the surgery and headed to rehab. Continued prayers for all.
ReplyDeleteSo very glad to hear your son made it through surgery. It is the best news. We as parents of grown children know it is so hard to let them go. As hard as it is we must give them wings as they go though life. However we are still their mama. And the love doesn't stop just when they are grown and on their own. Sending lots of hugs.
ReplyDeleteLife is good..Chicken tacos made me feel everything is going to be okay…Fiddlesticks is a nice quilt shop…Enjoy your time with Jason…..Anne Tedrow..
ReplyDeleteYES! Great news. Don't hesitate to keep us informed. We care!
ReplyDeleteWhen I was visiting my daughter (she must live near Jason) we went to Fiddlesticks. I bought a pattern for a huge medallion quilt. When I was home I called the shop to get a list of the exact fabrics and had her ship them to me. Many texts later I received the package. I'm slowly working on it now. Such good service!!
So thankful that all went well with Jason's surgery and that you got to speak with him that same day. Extra nice that Jeff could do with you. Waiting can be so hard. Nancy Angerer
ReplyDeleteGiving thanks for Jason's successful surgery and he and your family will remain in my thoughts and prayers for a positive recovery for him and strength for you as you support and care for him.
ReplyDeleteWonderful news! Let the healing begin. BTW that soup looks incredibly delicious. Darlene
ReplyDeleteWonderful news! You have such a wonderful family. Son Jeff is a real treasure. I hope Jason recovers well and no tumors ever come back! Sounds like he got excellent care. Best wishes!
ReplyDeleteBonnie, it was so wonderful to see "it's me mom", written in your blog today! The tears flowed. So happy Jason is recovering and Jeff was with you yesterday. Sometimes we need our family to lean on and take care of us. My thoughts and prayers will be with you as Jason continues his recovery. Blessings and hugs to you all.
ReplyDeleteso glad to read the good news! Elisabeth
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing the wonderful new Bonnie! I was crying tears of relief and joy along with you. Continued prayers for a speedy recovery for Jason. Keeping you all in my prayers. Kathy M.
ReplyDeleteI am so happy for you and yours! All my best wishes are coming your way!
ReplyDeleteWhat great news! Wishing Jason an uneventful recovery! Hugs for Jeff, too.
ReplyDeleteHey Bonnie, I made a mustgo stew the other night. My freezer doesn't get real full, but I do find food I passed over for a while. Very happy for all of you that the surgery went well.
ReplyDeleteSo relieved to hear that the surgery went well, Bonnie! I’ve been keeping you and your family in my thoughts and will continue to do so as you start on the road to recovery. Fiddlesticks is a wonderful shop and will be a great escape for you in the coming weeks. As your son continues to improve and is finally able to venture out a bit, you might consider a quick roadtrip to Sister’s Quilt Shop in Chehalis, WA. It’s magical and well worth the short drive. Hugs to you all!
ReplyDeleteYou will love Fiddlesticks. There are many quilt stores in the area. Check out Just For Fun Quilting. Find peace in the moment even if you are going through hard times.
ReplyDeleteYour grown man - children are who they are because of who you and Dave are. You both have raised kind, caring, loving men and that is a credit to you. My prayers continue for all of you as you travel this difficult road. Travel it one day at a time.
ReplyDeleteSo happy to hear that Jason’s surgery went well. It’s always stressful when our family members are going through a medical situation. Your newly finished quilt reminds me of apple trees.
ReplyDeleteThanking God all went well for Jason and for your family. Prayers continue for a speedy recovery.
ReplyDeleteSuch a relief. It is interesting when rolls switch. I find the kids/adult's did absorb what we were telling them over the years. They still like the home made cookie treats though. You can all take a deep breath. Elaine L ❤️🇨🇦
ReplyDeleteBonnie keeping you, Jason, Jeff, Hubby and all the critters too in my prayers for a healthy speedy recovery for Jason.
ReplyDeleteBonnie keeping you Jason, Jeff, Hubby and all the critters in my prayers for a healthy speedy recovery for Jason. So glad surgery went well
ReplyDeleteFiddlesticks is a great shop.
ReplyDeleteSo pleased that that you have had such good news, and were able speak with Jason. You are all in my thoughts, here's hoping for an easy road to recovery. All the best from Canada.
ReplyDeleteThat made me cry just reading “mom it’s me”. I know that sigh of relief. Thanks for the update. I know you are ready to lay eyes on him. Continued prayers for fast healing.
ReplyDeletePeggy
Aren’t blogger friends great, how we get wrapped up in your life. Thinking of you and your sons. Sending best wishes
ReplyDeleteHooray for positive news - I've been thinking of you and your family, and keeping you all in my prayers.
ReplyDeleteWhat wonderful news!! So happy for you! I hope things continue on the positive side of things! I just love the Brookgreen now that it's all finished. THe backing really is the perfect color. Enjoy your change of the seasons. I am just wishing for a drop of rain & cooler weather. Happy stitching! ❤️
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear all is well with your son. Another quilt store in the Portland area is Pioneer Quilts in Milwaukee.
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear your son is on the road to recovery. Another quilt store in the Portland, Oregon area is Pioneer Quilts.
ReplyDeleteSo great you heard his voice, best medicine you could ever have. Wishing all of you continued improvement, and extra pet for such a sad looking Zoe!
ReplyDeleteBrookgreen is lovely, looks like our spring colours - or what is left after our wind storm.
Best wishes from New Zealand. Dot Brooker
Just checking in to read the great news that surgery, while long, went very well and that Jason was up to phone talk! Continued kind thoughts for all the Hunter family as healing and rehab progress. Wonderful that Jeff came to be with you.
ReplyDeleteContinued prayers for Jason and for your family. Thanks for the great update.
ReplyDeleteGood to hear about Jason. Continued prayers for complete healing.
ReplyDelete