Friday, December 12, 2008

Grandpa Lynn's Quilt

My father-in-law's name is Lynn, but we call him "Grandpa Lynn" because that is what our children call him. Grandpa is now 89 years old and in the sunset of his life. He is a good man, who has worked hard serving his family and God. As a father of 9 children, 40 grandchildren, and many great-grandchildren, we honor him for the example he is to our family.
A while back Mr. Cactus was questioning his dad about Christmas. He said "Dad, what does an 89 year old man need or even want for Christmas?" Grandpa paused for a minute contemplating. He then looked at me and said "I would love a quilt. I have a chair in my den that I like to sit in to watch TV. I would like a quilt to put over me during the cold winter months when I'm in my den."
I feel very honored he would make such a request. I asked him what colors he likes. He first said "Red". Then he added "I like blue too. And green. Oh my, I like many colors." I went with him into the den and looked at the colors already present in the room.
The quilt below became "Grandpa Lynn's Quilt". Many colors for him to look at, surrounded by blue. I hope it provides warmth and comfort to him during the long winter months.


This is a picture of Grandpa taken during World War II. He was married only a few weeks before he went off to war.
Lynn was married to my mother-in-law Janet for over 50 years before she passed away.
A life long friend was President James E. Faust, a well known and respected leader of our church. He and President Faust were friends in high school. They both were called, and served as missionary companions in Brazil. The picture below shows them in uniform during the war. Once home, they both married and spent years together raising their families, building their careers and serving in Church assignments. It's been difficult this last year for Lynn to experience the passing of President Faust and his wonderful wife Ruth.
Isn't he handsome in his flight uniform.
This is Grandpa Lynn now. Four of his 9 children now live in St.George. His declining health prevents him from heading our way anymore, so we make a lot of trips to Salt Lake to visit with him.
We love you Grandpa, and Merry Christmas.

7 comments:

Eileen said...

It's always nice making a quilt for someone in particular.. you can think about them the whole time you are making the quilt. Turned out really colorful and nice!

Abby and Stephanie said...

Beautiful quilt. How special that he wanted a quilt for Christmas. I love the bow tie pattern. I made a signature bow tie quilt for my dad for his 80th birthday. In July he'll celebrate 90.

Judi said...

It's a beautiful quilt and I do think it's quite an honor that he asked you for one.

Gayle said...

Nedra - What a wonderful, manly quilt you made for your FIL! I know he's going to love it!

Material Mary's Mercantile said...

What a cool post and a very fun quilt. I've always liked the bowtie quilt pattern and someday, I will make one as well. I also enjoyed your nativities as I also collect nativities. Thanks for sharing. Mary

Browndirtcottage said...

i've always liked this pattern...nice job

amy smart said...

What a treasure, Nedra! And what a special gift. Don't you love making quilts for someone who will love it? I loved the old photos too. I wish I could have that outfit your mother-in-law is wearing (shoes included!) And what a special connection to President Faust. I'm glad you shared.

Also, I love your nativities! I love Christmas decoration brought home from somewhere special because they're not only beautiful at what they represent, but also the memories associated with finding them.