#97 Don't Like Confusing Voicemail

I listened to a voicemail yesterday and it made me worry that chemo brain was suddenly messing with me. I recognized a familiar accent... but I have a few friends with the very same accent.  The voice sounded worried, or let down.  "Why haven't you been here? Where have you been?"  It sounded like I had stood someone up. Did I forget something?

​Finally

It finally dawned on me that it was the voice of one of my favorite employees, at one of the 6 places where I've  done my Quilt Program in the past 6 years.  

Not only did this special person take care of my mom when she moved into an Alzheimer's residence 8 years ago, she helped me with many of my quilt gatherings in the last 6 years.

Last June

Early on, I tried so very hard to cover my bases when I "took leave" of my groups. I called directors, stopped by, sent emails and texts.  But these facilities, with their ever-changing staff, are busy places. I am just one person of many who do programs.  Since one of my groups involves children and another is a group with Alzheimer's, I knew news would be shared cautiously. But I sure never wanted anyone to think I had just decided to stop showing up... after 6 years.

Cards

So maybe it's a little odd to send cards to some of my groups.  But it was bugging me that anyone would think I had stopped caring.  I contacted my dear friend who had phoned and I filled her in. Then I grabbed some old photos of The Quilt.  The photos don't show the quilt "in use" with my groups, but I thought some might at least recognize the colorful old thing.

Quilt Head

I wrote a greeting to each group, then included a photo.  Yes, I'm wearing a small quilt on my head.  I told the groups I hoped to start up in the New Year.  

I hope that wasn't a weird thing to do.  After all, my Alzheimer's folks aren't exactly wondering where I am.  The children at the Shelter who knew me, have hopefully moved on.  But it felt good to just throw myself into a card and send a little reminder... that I will be back!