A Very Special Shawl

Subject: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: wysiwyg
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 11:31 AM

I know a lot of us are feeling that helpless feeling that we want so badly to be able to DO something for Heather Fielding. Like me, you may be at a loss to know what that is.... so I have asked MMario to serve as representative for Mudcatters, to make a special shawl from us, for Heather Fielding. He has consented to begin on this as a group gift, to make the hugs we cannot offer her in person, but a shawlful of hugs she can wrap herself in... make the comfort tangible, deeper than words we can offer.

Of course I have no authority to have asked him this on "everyone's" behalf, but think about it. Who knows and accurately loves so many Catters? Who else is consistently loving toward all, and sees everyone's best? Who else has a heart big enough to hold each of us, and Heather, together in his heart, one by one, stitch by stitch, and "knit" us together in selfless love? I can't think of a better messenger of our love, than my friend (and many of yours), Leo.

For this shawl, MMario will do a piece for each person who posts "count me in," representing and focusing each individual's care for her as he works on it...

See? It's all about connections, stitch by stitch. It may become quite large..... it might go to festivals and stuff where Catters are, for a row here, a row there......

Leo, thank you. I hope you have a wonderful experience in this.

~Susan

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Nancy King
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 11:46 AM

Sounds good to me. Count me in!

Thanks to Susan and Leo. Shall I send a contribution for materials, and if so, to whom?

Nancy

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Rapparee
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 11:46 AM

Okay, count me in.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Wesley S
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 11:48 AM

I'm in too. Tangible , portible hugs.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 11:48 AM

Wrapping myself in my warm and wonderfully vibrant Leo-shawl gave me such a sense of the love and care that emanates from this wonderful place. It came at the darkest time in my life. Count me in, too!

Allison

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: wysiwyg
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 11:51 AM

I'm not going to be able to keep up with PMing thank-you's for each of you wonderful responses, but I love you ALL.

$$ questions can come to or MMario via PM.

~S~

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Morticia
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 11:53 AM

and me......good idea.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: jeffp
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 11:58 AM

Count me in as well.

jeffp

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: dick greenhaus
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 11:58 AM

Me too

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Catherine Jayne
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 12:03 PM

Count me in too

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Peace
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 12:07 PM

I'm in.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: kendall
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 12:11 PM

Of course

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Allan C.
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 12:12 PM

Sounds like a plan! Me too!

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST,MMario
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 12:21 PM

okay - hopefully some people who know Heather better then I (just about anyone) might be able to chime in with a few simple answers.

Does she have allergies to any fibers? would love to be able to do this in something sinfully luxerious - the fiber equivilant of Rick's music.

Colour(s)? All I know is that she doesn't normally pick blue for herself.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: open mike
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 12:21 PM

this is such a great idea....
and it brings to mind many images
from songs about being wrapped in
a sweater or cloak or shawl:

from Laurie Lewis' "Old Friends"
"Like a cloak against the cold,
I wrap myself in friendship's fold,
..Old Friend, like warp and woof entwine,
each crossing defining the design,
though in places frayed and worn,
the fabric remains untorn"

aned Connie Kaldor's "Someday"
.."Someday, someday, everything will be alright,
Someday, someday, someday but not tonight,
For tonight you'll wrap that pain around you
like a tattered sweater...."

It will be wonderful to feel apart of a big group
hug for Heather, and to be with her and bring a
ray of hope knowing there are so many who care.

Thank you Susan and Leo for offering this gift!
I would like to help in any way I can. Would it
be helpful to encourage as many people as possible
to purchase the recent c.d.? And can someone post
a reminder as to how and where to do this? thanks.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: CarolC
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 12:22 PM

Count me in. I have one of those wonderful MMario shawls. I can't think of a better way for us to collectively embrace Heather at this time.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Clinton Hammond
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 12:27 PM

How can anyone possibly say no????

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Big Mick
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 12:32 PM

I'm there.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: wysiwyg
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 12:32 PM

I should also say that of course this cannot replace, nor is meant to replace, whatever people who are close to Heather are moved to do, personally.

(Laurel, I'm headed out to the store for a bit, but a filter for threads with Rick's name should find you the thread on his CD. That's where I will look, myself-- our annual habit is to pick a special, tender project and get all our farflung family members the same gift. It started the year a friend opened a quilt and fiber-arts co-op-- we got a couple dozen crocheted snowflakes as tree decor and sent them to each family member in their Xmas card. The next year it was Mudcatter Keith Johnson's CD. Last year it was Mudcat CD samplers. Our Xmas shopping this year will be all from Rick's CDs.)

~Susan

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: SINSULL
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 12:47 PM

Count me in

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 12:50 PM

This is a very nice idea! If you need any donations of materials, ala a "crazy quilt" approach to this shawl, I have several nice skeins I could send. Include me in this group hug.

SRS

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: katlaughing
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 12:50 PM

Me, too.

MMario, I'll have to check my pictures to see what colours I used for a necklace for her a few years ago. I'll let you know.:-)

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Sorcha
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 12:51 PM

Of course I'm in! what a GREAT idea!!

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Tinker
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 12:54 PM

Oh, I've got big and little Mario shawls that I brought home as tangible Getaway Hugs. The large heathery muticolor one is a Great big hug, like Mario or Mick or ColK or... count me in here.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 01:02 PM

Put a love knot or two in from Scotland too.
John

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Carly
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 01:03 PM

I also am the proud owner of a Mmario shawl. What a great idea! Count me in. Mario, I am a spinner and weaver; I would love to contribute. More in a PM.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Áine
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 01:04 PM

This is a wonderful, beautiful idea. Please, please count me in, too. I have one of MMario's shawls, and when I wear it, I can feel the hug he gave me one very special summer's day.

Can't think of a better way to give Heather a very tangible group hug.

Thank you, Susan, for thinking of this. And a great big hug and thank you to MMario for taking on this task.

All the best, Áine

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: black walnut
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 01:41 PM

Lovely. Include me too. I've been feeling oddly cold since hearing the news on Sunday, and this thought of a shawl for Heather warms me up.

Nicely written, Susan.

~b.w.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Micca
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 01:49 PM

Me too Mario,

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST,momnopp - no cookie on school computer
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 02:00 PM

Me too, me too!

Love,

JudyO/momnopp

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: pixieofdoom
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 02:05 PM

And me please

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Pene Azul
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 02:08 PM

Lovely idea. Please count me in, too.

Jeff

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Mrs.Duck
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 02:13 PM

What a lovely idea! Count the Ducks in.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: catspaw49
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 02:20 PM

Geeze....I leave for a few hours and get back to find this....and it's growing fast!!!! This is gonna' be one llooonnngg shawl!!

Say Mario....Can you throw in a row from the Reg Boys? They were wondering if it would be okay. I said you'd do it.They're feelin' a bit low and are out with Paw, Cletus, and Buford. That's probably not good since when they get back, none of them will be able to feel at all.........

One other thing.....Maybe include Cleigh in my row huh? Rick actually blew up his ass once. Now ain't that a legacy? "This man once tried to blow a tune up a possum's ass." Come to think of it, that's not gonna' look to good on me at some point down the road either....."This man owned an Ass-Blown Possum." Oh yeah, that'll be rea............hey! Wait a minute.....As I think on it a bit more, YOU aren't going to be in any great shape either on this possum thing.............Best not to dwell on it.......

Anyway, count me in.

Spaw

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST,Kim C no cookie
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 02:20 PM

Me too. MMario please PM me and let me know if I can send money/yarn/needles whatever.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: kytrad (Jean Ritchie)
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 02:31 PM

Yes, I'm in.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST,MMario
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 02:37 PM

This *is* growing fast - but what should be expected from this crowd?

Here's my Initial idea - A rectangular shawl in filet crochet - With a musical score worked into it as the pattern.

Any suggestions as to a tune? (or would anyone like to compose one?)

That was my first reaction - but there are plenty of other options - knit versus crochet, circular, semi-circular, square.

It could go fancier or simpler. Or could be a lap rug/afghan with SEVERAL staves of music. hmmmmm - that could be done in a more solid pattern and the design workied into it as an overlay...

let's let more people post in with ; let some ideas bounce and we'll see what happens.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Mary in Kentucky
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 02:38 PM

I'm in!

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Big Mick
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 02:40 PM

There are only two possibilities. Catspaw's Rag. A Mudcat original. Or Leezy Lindsay, which was very special to Rick and Heather.

All the best,

Mick

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Bill D
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 02:43 PM

of course..count me in..

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Rt Revd Sir jOhn from Hull
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 02:44 PM

count me in.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Sorcha
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 02:54 PM

I like the Circle Motif.....the circle of life, unbroken. Perhaps in a soft heather grey? And, if there is 'supplies money' left over we send it to Heather, right?

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Leadfingers
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 02:56 PM

Rick Fielding was someone I never met, though I read his postings in
the forum . Count me in too please .

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: katlaughing
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 02:59 PM

I think it should be one of Rick's songs, like Sing With the Angels and I love the idea of the circle, too. This is wonderful. Please let me know what I can help with.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST,MMario
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 03:00 PM

right.

Circular wouldn't mean we have to ditch the music though - I can work that in.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Mark Clark
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 03:01 PM

Count me in as well.

      - Mark

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Helen
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 03:07 PM

Susan & Leo,

You are both treasures. Thank you for this beautiful idea. Count me in.

Helen

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Bee-dubya-ell
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 03:08 PM

I'm onboard.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Micca
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 03:19 PM

Why dont we all send MMario a dollar for materials? then we are all "equal" and he has about 40$ to start with.and even us on teh East side of the Pond might be able to find a 1$ bill somewhere or as a group?

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Alba
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 03:25 PM

Thank you Susan and to you Leo for the wonderful, caring idea..
I would love to be included.

Jude

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST,MMario
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 03:28 PM

I believe WYSIWYG has some thoughts in mind for monatary contributions and how to handle them.

Several people have mentioned materials they are willing to contribute as well - That needs to wait a bit while we get confirmation on allergies and preferances or lack thereof, and figure out a colour scheme - unless we go patchwork quiltish - which would make the circle idea hard and also the music.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST,MMario
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 03:31 PM

BTW - I would think a lovely addition to this would be to print out the various threads (not necessarily this one - but the Open letter one, and the "influence" one might be good choices) in some format and put them in a notebook for Heather.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: wysiwyg
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 03:32 PM

PM $$ queries to me. Prefer not to have that hashed out in a thread Heather is likely to see at some point, eh?

(Clones remove this post eventually?)

~Susan

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: wysiwyg
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 03:33 PM

Songs for Heather via MP3 on CD-ROM?

~S~

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Amergin
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 03:35 PM

Please count me in as well.

I'd like to contribute, but am very short of funds at the moment.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Amos
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 03:41 PM

ABsolutely count me in! Look at this thread!! Wow!!


A

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: KathWestra
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 03:41 PM

Wonderful, special idea. Thank you Susan. Thank you Leo. Count me in.

Love the idea of lush fibers, Leo! Alpaca? Silk? That will have to wait on the allergy answer, though.

Love the idea of it being one of Rick's songs, Kat. My other thought was Jerry Rasmussen's "Handful of Songs," which Rick sings so beautifully on his "Lifeline" CD. That's a strong Mudcat connection, too. (It's not what you leave, it's the joy of remembering. All I can leave you is a handful of songs.")

Love the idea of it being a circle.

Let us all know about the money thing.

What a community this is!
Kathy

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Barbara
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 04:36 PM

And me too. Let me know what is needed.
Blessings,
Barbara

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Mary in Kentucky
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 05:22 PM

Just a word on colors...

Those of us with who used to have brown hair, brown eyes and medium skin...we look AWFUL in light gray (grey). Sorry, Sorch, but it's a fact. As my hair turns gray, I find that I wear more gray, but it's a dark, charcoal gray.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Jeri
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 05:35 PM

Me too!
I like the circle design better (I just like abstract designs), but Heather may like the notes. I don't think she's allergic to anything except certain metals - no fibers that I know of.

Hmmmm...shawl by MMario, yarn by Carly, perhaps?
I think this is a wonderful idea.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: DonMeixner
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 05:49 PM

Count me in too. Flowers are a nice touch, their garden was special.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 05:52 PM

I'm for the circle, too. But something else could be done with the tunes idea- a friendship quilt? I'd make a square (but don't ask me to put it together!

What a wonderful outpouring of love here! I'm not even a little bit surprised!

Allison

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: sian, west wales
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 05:54 PM

I'm in, whatever is decided.

sian

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Giac
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 05:56 PM

What a wonderful thing! I'm in too, please.

Mary

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: katlaughing
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 05:59 PM

In speaking with Alba, today, she said there was a certain piece of artwork which came to mind because of this thread. I think this is the one she had in mind: blue clicky thing...I think it is beautiful and personifies the love and caring in this thread and the others. It is so appropriate that we speak of "threads" when "weaving" our love and concern for one another.

luvyakat

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 06:02 PM

By the way, Leo-et-al, as one who had a similar loss not six months ago, and received a beautiful shawl just two months later, I would advise to keep it fairly simple and get the shawl to Heather as soon as possible, while it's still cool up north, while her pain is still raw and she needs extra warmth inside and out.

Of course, on the other hand, summer evenings are cool, too, and the months go by and the phone calls and cards dwindle, and you still need reminders that you are loved. So it would work either way!

I'm filled with love for this wonderful community!

Love,

Allison

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: annamill
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 06:56 PM

Please be so kind to include me in this wonderful project. Please let us know how we can help with expenses.

I know Mario will create this shawl with lots of love.

Thank you Mario.

Annamill

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST,LilyFestre
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 07:35 PM

What loving, thoughtful idea! Count me in too please!!!!!!!!!

Michelle

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: JennyO
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 08:30 PM

Yes please, I would like a warm hug from Oz to be woven in to Heather's shawl.

Count us In

Love from Jenny and John

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: katlaughing
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 08:38 PM

That's a good point, Animaterra.

Not to make too much work for Leo, but I had another thought...maybe those who want to could also commission him to make some other shawls for other Mudcatters who are still with us, yet going through some pretty rough times? I can think of three, right now, whom I would love to wrap up in a Mudcat inspired shawl, too. Maybe others could help in the making AFTER we take care Heather.

just a thought,

kat

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 08:50 PM

From a mathematical point of view, as interesting as a circle will be, the VOLUME of work involved is much greater, assuming the diameter of this circle is large enough that when the shawl is folded it stays put over her shoulders with the extra length down across her chest. Contrast this to a rectangle of the dimensions to go around the shoulders and stay in place because of the weight down the front. If you want this to get to the party of the first part sooner rather than later, a simple and elegant rectangle design might be best.

I really like the suggestion of a dark charcoal gray. It goes with everything. But I still have a few skeins of yarn here if you want to do a crazy-quilt kind of shawl.

SRS

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: MMario
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 09:50 PM

PM WYSIWYG re $$

kat - - re: shawls for those still with us that could use one - I have one almost ready to go in the auction;another one is under construction. Coalitions can always be formed to bid on a shawl in the auction and then designate it for someone else. Sort of double duty...

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: open mike
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 10:11 PM

perhaps heather could be asked what she would prefer...
if she is not likely to wear a shawl but might be comoforted
by having a lapwarmer or bed-top small throw instead
---it could still be circular. and i think of heather as
inb the pink/purple family of colors...

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Mooh
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 11:15 PM

I'm in. Mike.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: LadyJean
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 11:20 PM

When I'm done knitting my bit, where do I send it?

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 23 Mar 04 - 11:26 PM

I sent one of MMario's shawls, a light weight one (can also work as a table runner) to Barb'ry at christmas, since I was her Secret Santa. It was very nice to be able to send her something of particular importance within the Mudcat community that also benefitted Mudcat itself. And she had met Leo during the year, adding another interesting level to the gift.

Handmade gifts, like Live Music, are best!

SRS

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Lonesome EJ
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 12:10 AM

knit me in there somewhere. I'm an old yarn-spinner you know.

thanks for the beautiful idea MMario, wys et al

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: katlaughing
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 12:29 AM

I can testify to that, LeeJ!:-)

Mmario, that's an excellent idea! Anyone who is interested in joining in on a coalition bid for a shawl for anudder Mudder, please PM me when Mmario adds one to the auction.

I haven't looked at pix yet,but I think the necklace I amde for Heather was with black onyx and malachite (green). I will double-check, though.

kat

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: wysiwyg
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 12:35 AM

You are all quite wonderful. Lots of lovely PMs too.

I was just looking at Mudcat Photos. Heather is in there (Duckboots); one might assume she's wearing colors in them that she likes?

The last of the pix to load has Rick, shadowed, behind her, barely visible himself, peeking out from over her shoulder as she sits in full sun grinning like... a grin. I'm going to freeze that image on my mind: Rick always near her, and her grinning like that, knowing it, sitting in light.

~Susan

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Seamus Kennedy
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 12:36 AM

Leo and Susan, please count me in.

Seamus

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Joe Offer
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 12:42 AM

me, too
-joe-

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST,reggie miles
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 01:41 AM

me, three

thanks much for this

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Chris Amos
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 01:44 AM

Count me in too please.

Chris

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: C-flat
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 02:39 AM

lovely idea,
me too.
C-flat.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Roger the Skiffler
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 03:59 AM

Lovely idea, Susan
RtS

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Partridge
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 04:01 AM

Me too

Pat x

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Fibula Mattock
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 04:16 AM

and me.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: mooman
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 04:43 AM

Please count me in as well!

Peace

moo

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Pseudolus
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 08:49 AM

I'd love to be included in this if someone who only knew of Rick from his posts here can participate!! It defies all logic to be this sad from the passing of someone I've never met face to face...but then logic hasn't always been a strong point...

This is a great idea.....

Frank

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST,MMario
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 08:55 AM

Please if Anyone knows if Heather has allergies to any fiber or (for example) detests mohair or some other fiber please let us know.

She mentioned to me she doesn't normally CHOOSE blues for herself - but is told it is a good colour on her.

Kat mentioned black and malachite. (this could be really striking!)

Purples/pinks have been mentioned.

SRS has a skein of variagated that is blues and purples with gray.

the "artiste" in me leans towards the black/malachite - other opinions?

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Tinker
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 09:10 AM

I somehow "see" this loving creation draped on the Victorian couch. Now I was only there for 5 minutes, and I wasn't focused on decor, but I'm remembering burgandy and gold.... Jeri, can you help me here???

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: catspaw49
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 09:16 AM

Not that I have ever been accused of having taste, but Mario....Go with the "artiste" in you.......It is a striking combination.

Spaw

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 09:20 AM

it would go better with burgandy and gold then would purples, pinks or blues...(to my eye at least)

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Big Mick
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 09:22 AM

I know the room well, and the general nature of the home. MMario, you are an artiste. Just go with your instincts, it will fit well. Your black and malachite would be just fine. And remember, it is the love that will keep her warm.

Go with your instincts,

Mick

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: catspaw49
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 09:36 AM

Mario, I know you and that you want all to be happy with your choices so I know we all appreciate you keeping us involved. At this point however, Big Mick is dead nuts on (and if anyone is an expert on dead nuts, it's Mick).

You are the artiste here and we will ride with your judgements.....It's the love that matters. Get on with it.(:<))

Spaw

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: wysiwyg
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 09:39 AM

Several of you have mentioned that you knit or crochet or weave.... Sounds like an ongoing activity could be a group who does these for people among us in need of one. A lot of local communities in our area have a ministry like that for fire victims.

My paw in law (Stanley) got a wonderful gift from his church's Prayer Blanket Group. I think they make a macrame kind of lap robe.... the group meets to work in the piece together and as it is tied, each knot is prayed over for the recipient, and prayed into the piece as an offering, in specific as regards their situation. He's a bit of a southern fella, raised in churches where "covered in prayer" or "covered by prayer" has a specific meaning, although he's a farily dignified Episcopalian now.

Anyway, this very tough old bird sheds tears (finally) when he holds it and tries to talk with my maw in law about whether he will ever be able to come home again... Hip surgery rehab seems to indicate he will not, and he has never had a culture of exressing deep feelings.....

I mention this just by way of illustrating how very powerful a symbol something is when we can hold it in our hands and focus on the amazing abundance of love it conveys.


I want to thank the many who have PMed about the $$ side. This idea-- call it a bandwagon-- was built, rolling, and broadcasting in the space of about 15 minutes and knowing MMario's generous heart I never thought about costs for materials, but of course you Mudcatters are..... well, you're Mudcatters, and you've filled in the gaps in our ideas quite marvelously, making this your own idea as well, and I appreciate the spirit in which you've all jumped on a fast-moving bandwagon! I am opening a special bank account and should have details by end of week or early next. Clearly there is enough support in the offing to reimburse MMario to go ahead and get what his hands crave to fashion into our gift to Heather.

And $$ participation IS NOT REQUIRED-- it's about the connections, OK???? A few folks have indicated they can cover more than their "own" share, so DON'T WORRY ABOUT IT. For this project, the more people, the better, and it's the names and hearts that will make the impact.

~Susan

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Morticia
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 09:40 AM

I think,with Heather's colouring, black and malachite would be lovely although as my grandma is wont to say, anything suits a fair face.Go with your instincts,MMario and bless you for doing this.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 09:43 AM

The "Rick Fielding Memorial Revolving Hug and Comfort Shawl Consortium"?

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: wysiwyg
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 09:53 AM

Fielding's Fiber Fashions???????????????

Think we better have Spaw name it, dear! :~)

~S~

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST,ClaireBear
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 10:16 AM

If perpetual guests can stand up and be counted, please count me in.

Claire

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: katlaughing
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 10:32 AM

Okay, I just checked the picture and it was silver with onyx and malachite. I couldn't find the email or PM's in which Rick and I discussed it, but he also admitted to not really knowing just what would be her favs.:-) He did say the malachite was nice, so that's what we went with. I also sent her a dress one year which was deep velvet green with muslin sleeves....so I'm thinking greens are probably a safe bet. I *think* I remember Rick saying she wasn't crazy about purple and pinks, BUT don't quote me!:-)

kat

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: harpgirl
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 10:36 AM

count me in

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST,MMario
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 10:40 AM

I just found the PM from Heather re: a shawl from the getaway - she does NOT wear grays - blue is not her favorite but is the colour she most gets compliments on.

Now leaning towards a possible mix of blue-ish greens, with touches of black. calling yarn store after they open.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST,bydand
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 11:34 AM

This is a great gift of remembrance.
Please count me in, as I know how much
thoughtfullness means to people after a
loss.
~bydand

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Rustic Rebel
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 12:19 PM

Count me in. Beautiful idea.
(MMario, can you knit a mudcat?!)

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Dave Swan
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 12:50 PM

I'm in.

D

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Cattail
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 01:38 PM

Wonderful idea, could you also knit, as well as a mudcat a tiny,
bright, singing bird from me?

When I first came to the 'Cat I read one of Rick's posts. After
reading it I wanted to know more of this man and went to the members
pages, when his picture came up that was how I saw him. a bright eyed
little bird.
As I believe that we all return in another form, that is how I
believe Rick will be. Still with us, somewhere on this planet of ours,
.......and still singing.

Cattail !

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Jeri
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 03:34 PM

I'm PMing MMario. You know she's likely reading this, don't you? Heather - stop it! It's a surprise, dammit!

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: MMario
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 08:07 PM

I've started. It will be round. The main yarn fiber is 100% shetland spindrift 2 ply - and in a subtly 'heatherd' colour.   It may end up with some other stuff worked in - circular - but the actual design still fluid.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: wysiwyg
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 09:18 PM

Kooliest!

We want pix ASAP, even if it's just a pile of yarn pulled out and snapped so we can see color.

~Susan

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Nancy King
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 09:45 PM

Your're a prince, MMario! Thanks so much for doing this. I know it will be beautiful!

Nancy

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Annie
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 09:48 PM

Please count me in. Thanks.

When I met Heather at Getaway and she looked great in a large red sweater.

Annie

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: catspaw49
Date: 24 Mar 04 - 09:50 PM

***** THWACK!!! ***** WHOMP!!! ***** Down Susan....Down.....Get down, get back.....Sit....Stay...........HEEL!!!

Give the man a break Wyzzy!!! He has a lot more to do than to muck about taking pictures of yarn.........Now go lay down on your rug and stay there!!

Spaw

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 25 Mar 04 - 12:00 AM

Geez, Spaw, settled down, yourself! All of that waving around nearly fanned a pile of papers off of my desk!

Leo, I have a package ready to go in the mail tomorrow.

SRS

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: wysiwyg
Date: 25 Mar 04 - 12:25 AM

Pat, stuff it! :~)

Of COURSE he will take pix-- have you not seen his website (which I set up for him) that he has loaded up with knitting pix of every imaginable sort????? He's my pal-- we're cool wid each other, dude!

(nipping you on the butt like a GOOD doggie)

~Susan

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: KT
Date: 25 Mar 04 - 12:55 AM

This is a lovely idea. Please count me in, too!
KT

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Big Mick
Date: 25 Mar 04 - 03:28 AM

Get 'em, Pat.

Mick

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: wilbyhillbilly
Date: 25 Mar 04 - 07:45 AM

Brilliant Idea, could you please count me in too as part of the UK contingent.

Wilby

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST
Date: 25 Mar 04 - 08:12 AM

WYS - the mental picture of you nipping 'spaw on the butt *shudder*

sorry.


The yarn I bought last night on my Emergcency Fiber Run (EFR) is Spindrift colour #187 - 'Sunrise'

The only pictures I've found on the net all look darker then the yarn does "live" - nor do they show the subtle colours - there are touches or MANY shades in this yarn - but the base colour is red

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Pseudolus
Date: 25 Mar 04 - 10:53 AM

I can't tell you all how much this has moved me. When I feel the need to teach my kids about love, compassion and God's will (something I do on a regular basis!), I will direct them to this thread, to this family, to this group of people who are pouring out their hearts to a friend that many of us have never met face to face! It's astounding and for me it's a life lesson.

Frank

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Hollowfox
Date: 25 Mar 04 - 11:30 AM

Would you count me in as well, please?

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: maire-aine
Date: 25 Mar 04 - 12:39 PM

Please include me, too. Thank you.

Maryanne

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: wysiwyg
Date: 25 Mar 04 - 01:06 PM

CLICK HERE to see the Spindrift color range. Leo says that thieir pic of #187 is the "closest I've seen - [the yarn is actually] a bit lighter and brighter then what shows on my monitor."

If you look at the other colors you can get a sense of the heathering he was describing a few posts back. I'm sure he will keep telling us what's happening so we can do some virtual croceting along with him.

Perhaps those of you who want to make items for other hurting Catters can work away in parallel and tell us what you are working on, if not for whom.

Also did you see that Leo has another beautiful item in the Auction right now?


If you have never been with MMario while he's doing one of these, you might like to see what I see, till you get a chance to see it yourself: I have the lucky privilege of sometimes getting to see him start these or work on them, or a look at finished ones, when he comes down for the occasional overnight visit here at the farm. I dunno how it is when he's other places, but when he's here, his hands are never idle.... he stitches away while relaxedly carrying on long, involved conversations and somehow still keeps track of the pattern.... to see this big strong fella with the tiny threads slipping through his fingers, or flipping the piece around to start a row, or shaking a finished one out of the bag to show, and seeing how it lies as it loses its bundled, folded shape.... THAT is a life lesson for me..... the cohesion and integrity of a filet piece, tho it is made from tiny intersections and a lot of open air, and the softness (whatever the fiber).... all just flowing out of him in loveliness.

That's how people love you, Leo!

~Susan

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: catspaw49
Date: 25 Mar 04 - 01:22 PM

Ya' know, I just can't call him Leo. I've known his name for years, but the man is Mario for a fact. Obviously his parents made a mistake when naming him. And for those who have never met him, please go have a look at a picture of this great, giant, gentle, bear of a man and you'll get an even better idea of seeing the picture Susan sees............

Spaw

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST,Rara Avis
Date: 25 Mar 04 - 02:33 PM

Please include me.

What a wonderful idea and what a comfort it will be for Heather. I have a MMario shawl (I'm wearing it now) the color of the sun setting over Beauly Firth.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: katlaughing
Date: 25 Mar 04 - 02:53 PM

No, Spaw, it's Dear Darlin' EM-Mario!**bg**

The colour looks beautiful!

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST,MMario
Date: 25 Mar 04 - 02:55 PM

gad - thread crep even here!

As a matter of fact (and I thinkI've told you the story 'spaw) my parents DID make a mistake when naming me. I was supposed to be Mario Leo and ended up Leo Mario because my Mom filled the spaces in wrong on the form.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 25 Mar 04 - 03:07 PM

I've never seen those fingers in action, though I've been in the presence of the mellifluous voice with the gentle, serene personality and can well imagine the fingers clicking away while the voice is singing and conversing.

So what do your parents call you? Leo or Mario?

Allison

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 25 Mar 04 - 03:17 PM

You can fix that.

When I had my daughter, there was an officious clerk from the hospital who insisted on filling out our birth certificate form for naming our daughter--"too many people get it wrong," she declared. She wrote out the information to go back and type up on the form. Damned twit misspelled my daughter's name even after I had spelled it out very carefully for her. I had to go back through the system to fix it after I got the official document the mail.

SRS

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST,MMario
Date: 25 Mar 04 - 03:20 PM

Carlo, Nino, Sue, Tony - occasionally Jan, Fred, Peter - with nine of us Mom tends to call you by whatever name she used last. *grin*

I'm "Uncle Leo" to most of the family since the next generation started (yikes! thirty years ago!!!!)

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 25 Mar 04 - 04:22 PM

My Mom used to call out all of our names, plus the dog and the cats before she got to the party she really intended to call. But enough thread creep--back to the shawl!

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST
Date: 25 Mar 04 - 04:34 PM

well - up to row - 26. or is it 27...

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: bill\sables
Date: 25 Mar 04 - 05:22 PM

Would you please put in a purple patch from me to remind Heather of the Scottish Heather
Bill

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST,Lydia
Date: 25 Mar 04 - 06:34 PM

Greetings to all --

I have just come back from spending the afternoon with Heather and her sister Linda. As can be expected, tears are always close to the surface. So are the fond memories. I was lucky enough to have known Rick for the past 10 years and although we shared a love of music I also shared his love of leather carving. I'm proud to say he has taught me well.

Just so you all know, Heather and Linda have seen this thread as well as the others. (No, I did not spill the beans!) The idea of the shawl is comforting to Heather and from our conversation I believe she would wish that it consist of many different threads reflecting the many aspects of Rick's life as well as reflecting the many people who knew him. Even to possibly include bits of leather, or patches? As for her not liking blue, it is navy blue which she is not necessarily fond of. Other lighter shades are fine. Hope this helps.

Please include me in this shawl, and if there is anything I can do to help with materials, leather, etc., feel free to ask.

Lydia

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 25 Mar 04 - 06:52 PM

Lydia, Thank you so much for the news about Heather. It's good to know she knows we love her and hold her in our hearts.

Allison

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 25 Mar 04 - 09:42 PM

There's a varigated blue/purplish/neutral tone skein winging its way to MMario even as I type. Maybe that will help with the heather reminder.

Thanks for the news, Lydia. As I reflect on this project, I should say that I spoke with Rick more often regarding food than music. MMario, if you're eating lunch while you crochet (or is this knit?) spill a little spaghetti sauce on it for me (just kidding--I don't want my sauce to overlap someone else's purple heather. . .)

SRS

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Callie
Date: 25 Mar 04 - 10:26 PM

Please count me in. thank you for this beautiful project MMario.
Callie

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Celtaddict
Date: 25 Mar 04 - 10:46 PM

Count me in.
MMario/Leo and WYSIWYG/Susan, you are special people.
Rick deserved such friends.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GMT
Date: 26 Mar 04 - 04:14 AM

A splendid idea. Please count me in. I too only knew Rick from his posts here.

Gary

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST,MMario
Date: 26 Mar 04 - 09:27 AM

This is probably going to end up being a very odd looking shawl *grin*

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: CarolC
Date: 26 Mar 04 - 10:33 AM

I just realized that I had a dream about the shawl. In my dream, I saw it finished, probably not as it's going to actually look. But the one in my dream was very interesting.

Re: MMario and his crocheting... the first Getaway I attended, I wasn't sure how I was going to tell MMario, Big Mick, and Jed Marum apart since they looked so similar in their pictures (same hair color, same hair style, same facial hair, etc). MMario was the first of the three that I saw. I knew it was him right away because he was sitting in a song circle, his hands busily working away with his crochet hook and something beautiful and lacy.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Eve Goldberg
Date: 26 Mar 04 - 10:52 AM

Hi all -

I have been reading all the posts about Rick since Sunday. It's truly amazing to read how much Rick meant to so many people.

I haven't hung around Mudcat much before, but now I know what Rick was talking about when he spoke of the Mudcat community. You people are awesome!

I'm sure this shawl will bring lots of comfort to Heather in the months and years to come. It's a wonderful idea and I know she will treasure it.

I would love to be counted in, but I also know that I haven't been around here very long.

Eve

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST,MMario
Date: 26 Mar 04 - 10:55 AM

The point is you are thinking of Rick and Heather - That's the important part

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Carly
Date: 26 Mar 04 - 02:37 PM

Well-said, Mmario. I'm off to a weekend of music, and I'm taking one of my wheels, and some wool/silk/mohair that might work as a trim. Hopofully, we will spin some good songs and warm wishes into the yarn.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST,MMario
Date: 26 Mar 04 - 02:44 PM

I have no doubt that an incredible amount of warmth, good wishes and love will spin itself right into that fiber!

Good thing love and good wishes don't weigh much - otherwise this shawl would end up weighing many many tons.

Right now it weighs roughly 20 grams and is just about 16 inches in diameter.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: wysiwyg
Date: 26 Mar 04 - 04:27 PM

Aw, lil baby shawl.... going to grow up so fast.

~S~

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 27 Mar 04 - 06:00 AM

After a lovely warm day yesterday it was a cool evening. I wrapped myself in my MMario shawl and thought of Heather, and this wonderful place, and was warmed inside and out.

Allison

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: wysiwyg
Date: 29 Mar 04 - 10:52 AM

My apologies for the delay in getting back to your PMs. It's going to be another day or two, but.... um, worth the wait (bwahahahahah).

And, "refresh."

~Susan

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: JenEllen
Date: 29 Mar 04 - 05:15 PM

What a lovely idea! Am I too late for a row? I'd sign on for a tassle! *g*
~JE

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: MMario
Date: 29 Mar 04 - 10:42 PM

It won't be too late until it's shipped - if then!!!

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Janie
Date: 30 Mar 04 - 08:38 AM

How lovely! Add a shawl-hug from me also.

Janie

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST,MMario
Date: 30 Mar 04 - 08:52 AM

will do!

"Baby" is about 90 grams in weight at the moment - a hair over three ounces if I am converting properly - about 30 inches in diameter. the central motif is almost done - the secondary motif that surrounds and divides the center is started. a few more rows and then other design elements start getting added - and some colour changes.

SRS - the variagated looks like it will work! - may be able to work the Aran in somewhere as well - design continues to be fluid.

One of *my* goals in this is to make it do double duty if possible - either afghan/throw/laprug or shawl. or wall hanging, or table cover, or...

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST,flabbergasted MMario
Date: 30 Mar 04 - 01:16 PM

wow. *SOME*-one is keeping an eye on this project I can tell you -

now you have to understand three things:

A)- I am making up the design as I go along.

B)- In order to make a cirular piece of knitting you have to increase the number of stitches on a pretty regular basis - there is some "fudge factor" room - but especially during the initial phases it isn't huge.

C) The design I'm working out is based around the number 5 or 10 depending on how you look at it - and circular knitting is based around the number 8 (trust me on this)


*TWICE* I have stopped and checked my number of stitches per row vs number of rows worked and have been spot on the theoretical match !!!

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 30 Mar 04 - 04:15 PM

I'm glad that makes sense to you, MMario!

Hold onto those when you're through if anything is left. Don't feel obligated to use any that doesn't work. We're glad to find a good home for the yarn!

SRS

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST,MMario
Date: 30 Mar 04 - 04:22 PM

well - in a piece of circular knitting you usually increase 8 stitches every other row.

1-8
2-8
3-16
5-24
7-32
etc.

as I said - there is some fudge factor. instead of doing regular increases I am inserting a design that both increases and decreases the number of stitches - but when I've stopped and checked to see if I need to change something to come out close to the theoretical I've been right on the mark. Haven't had to apply a fudge factor! (Too few stitches and you end up with a bowl shaped piece -the edge pulls in -- too many and the edge turns into ruffles

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: darkriver
Date: 31 Mar 04 - 03:15 AM

please add me as well.
beautiful idea. thanks.

doug aka darkriver

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: wysiwyg
Date: 31 Mar 04 - 02:34 PM

I just sent a raft of PMs to folks-- I HOPE I got everyone who'd written me (and didn't miss anyone or send anyone eight copies!).

If you had thought you would be getting some info by PM from me and did not, please, PM again!

You can email me here: [e-mail]. Please put MUDCAT in the subject line to get past the spam filter. It WOULD be easier to give updates via email.

Thanks,

~Susan

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Roger in Baltimore
Date: 01 Apr 04 - 08:44 AM

You can count me in.

Big RiB

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: joanna
Date: 01 Apr 04 - 09:06 AM

As im new to Mudcat and have only chatted to afew people I dont know any of you (yet) but I have been so moved by this thread and the amount of love being passed on I hope you dont mind a bit of love from a stranger being added to this shawl (what a super idea ) please count me in somewhere in your craftwork thanks

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST,MMario
Date: 01 Apr 04 - 09:10 AM

Rick is one of those people whose influence is going to be felt for years (if not decades) beyond his passing - so having good thoughts go into this project from a newcomer is entirely appropriate.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST,jay rosen
Date: 02 Apr 04 - 06:11 AM

count me in

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: MMario
Date: 02 Apr 04 - 04:05 PM

Carly - the yarn arrived. yum! If I didn't have a very special 2nd birthday party to go to I'd be working with some of it tonight!

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Clifton53
Date: 02 Apr 04 - 06:05 PM

Very nice gesture all

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST
Date: 06 Apr 04 - 11:56 AM

counting Cleigh and "the boys" 108 signed on so far.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: MMario
Date: 06 Apr 04 - 07:02 PM

a picture of what is currently "the lump" plus some yarns.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: wysiwyg
Date: 06 Apr 04 - 08:52 PM

Wow, you've been busy! I was expecting to see more of a heffalump, but that's a LOT!

Oh that red! Stronghearted red. And the others..... it's going to be warm to the touch, the eye, and the soul.

And strength. I see strength.

~Susan

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 07 Apr 04 - 01:30 AM

Leo, your work will certainly add dignity to that little bit of yarn I sent! Thanks for posting the photo.

SRS

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 07 Apr 04 - 05:50 AM

Beautiful, Leo.
Allison

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Carly
Date: 07 Apr 04 - 01:47 PM

Thank you for the picture. You HAVE been busy, and the results so far...well, it looks as soft and comforting as I know some of those yarns feel. I look forward to seeing how she grows.

By the way, for anyone who is interested, the golden yarns in the baggie are silk, and the white is angora rabbit (and before anyone panics, rabbits shed naturally, so not only is the rabbit not harmed, but they never lose all of their fur at the same time.) You can tell I spend altogether too much time explaining spinning techniques in public forums!

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST,MMario
Date: 07 Apr 04 - 02:05 PM

What about the blue-grey-purple? I'm knitting with that right now - and boy do I have plans for that silk!!!!

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 08 Apr 04 - 12:21 AM

I'd have to guess that the blue/gray/purple is a blend of acrylic and wool. I picked up others at the same time that had a 75/25 mix.

Post us another photo when you can!

SRS

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Carly
Date: 08 Apr 04 - 12:51 AM

Both the blue and green color mixtures I sent are wool and silk, dyed with chemical dyes; the dark grey skein is from a "black" (any color but white) sheep, with flecks of silk flake carded in. The gold silks were dyed with onion skins.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Carly
Date: 08 Apr 04 - 12:55 AM

Stilly River Sage, that ball of purple yarn is gorgeous!

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST,MMario
Date: 08 Apr 04 - 08:33 AM

I'm actually on the homestretch now - all the names of everyone (ojkay - initials) are coded into the knitting. (as "mistakes" or variations in the pattern) - nothing obvious - but they ARE there. I *can* add more if anyone else wants to chime in.

Hope to get another picture up in the next day or so.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: MMario
Date: 09 Apr 04 - 02:31 PM

just to let you all know it continues to grow - I *will* get a picture sometime this weekend.

SRS - used the a row of the variagated on either side of the blue from Carly - really adds to it!

Working with some alpaca right now - crossing my fingers that there is enough of it - but if not - the design is STILL fluid!

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: MMario
Date: 10 Apr 04 - 11:40 AM

It grows larger.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: wysiwyg
Date: 10 Apr 04 - 12:10 PM

It's just beautiful, Leo.

~Susan

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: black walnut
Date: 10 Apr 04 - 12:20 PM

It looks very cozy. Thanks again for doing this.

~b.w.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Ebbie
Date: 10 Apr 04 - 12:48 PM

How lovely. Please count me in- I'd be happy to share a spot.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: MMario
Date: 11 Apr 04 - 01:33 PM

down to a dozen rows left to go. 'course they are taking a lot longer at this point...

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 11 Apr 04 - 05:58 PM

So you started from the OUTSIDE and worked to the INSIDE? Is that how this goes together? I thought with the stitches you were adding that you did it the other way, from the inside out.

Or maybe I'm blind or read all of this backwards. It's allergy season--everything is a little confused right now! :)

SRS

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST,MMario
Date: 12 Apr 04 - 07:58 AM

no - start at the CENTER and work OUT - but I *do* know when I'm going to stop...maybe. sorta.

got the new glasses friday - for the first time in a year able to see close and far at the same time without having to take glasses off or put them on. Made working on this much nicer. Have about a dozen rows left to go - at this point over 600 stitches in a row

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 12 Apr 04 - 10:36 AM

Okay, I see--it's like a huge sack right now, suspended from the needles. I was trying to understand how it looked in the photo.

You work fast--and apparently blindness hasn't hindered you.

SRS

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Jeri
Date: 12 Apr 04 - 05:18 PM

MMario, I'm trying to imagine how it looks all spread out, and I can't. This is probably a good thing, since if I could, Heather could too, and it ought to be at least a little bit of a surprise.

All I know is that if another shawl appears in the FSGW auction in that pattern that looks sort of like leaves (that I think you said you got from a doily) and is in shades of green or fall colors (isn't that Allison's shawl?), or possibly other colors, folks had better bring the big bucks! I ought to have money this year. If it's too similar to Allison's, I promise to avoid wearing it when she's got hers on.

You do some gorgeous work, MMario!

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 12 Apr 04 - 06:03 PM

Oh, Jeri, we'd look so.... fetching together! Mine does have the leaves, and it's exactly the color of new spring maple leaves the day they pop open (not that I've seen any such leaves yet, here in the still-frozen north).

MMario is the master. I think every Mudcat lady needs a shawl of his!

Allison

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: MMario
Date: 12 Apr 04 - 07:22 PM

it's just one stitch at a time ladies...if it took any brainpower or skill I'd be hopeless at it. (and thank god it doesn't take Rhythm! of which I got none.)

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Tinker
Date: 12 Apr 04 - 07:29 PM

Mario !!! Now you're just leading us down the road so we have to venhemently deny your statements and praise your skills. Brainpower, skill and rhythmn???? I've got three shawls and one CD that disprove each claim....Pashaw!!!

Love Ya,

tink

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: MMario
Date: 12 Apr 04 - 07:34 PM

*grin* there's a REASON I have that bodrhan track on there - he's able to make me SOUND like I'm keeping time! Truly - the knitting and crochet is what I do to KEEP from thinking (though I've been doing some active meditation on THIS particular shawl/afghan - whatever it turns out to be)

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Morticia
Date: 13 Apr 04 - 10:57 AM

dammit all MMario, I 'spose with all your talent, you can afford to be modest but since I couldn't do what you are almost effortlessly doing in a million years, spare a thought for us cack handed ones, willya? It's looking just lovely by the way....

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: MMario
Date: 13 Apr 04 - 11:14 AM

it took me *FORTY YEARS* to learn how to do the purl stitch.

Is that sufficiently cack-handed?

Nine rows to go - if I counted right.

And if that doesn't mollify you - I have witnesses who are willing to swear to the truth that I frequently find it difficult or impossible to count to two. ('struth! I have demonstrated this lack of arithmatic ability in public performance)

Being unable to remember my name is my own fault.

Owain Cramp - the pre-minstrel

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Áine
Date: 13 Apr 04 - 11:28 AM

Hey MMario, just wanted to let you know how beautiful I think that last picture was. Cack-handed or not, darlin', you have a deft touch.

All the best, Áine

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 13 Apr 04 - 12:12 PM

Leo, please keep a nice photo of this shawl, laid out in all of its glory, so that once it has been sent and received you can then post it so the rest of us can see what it finally looks like.

SRS

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: MMario
Date: 13 Apr 04 - 12:15 PM

roger wilco!

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: wysiwyg
Date: 14 Apr 04 - 11:10 AM

Um.........

I wish I had everyone's email addy so I could send y'all some info privately as a simple group-mailing... please drop me a line at the address below if you see this.... I'll PM everyone I do not hear from.

Thanks,

~Susan
[e-mail]
SUBJECT LINE: Mudcat

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST,MMario
Date: 14 Apr 04 - 11:17 AM

please do folks - it's logistics and surprise for heather stuff.

two rows of knitting and a bind off row to go.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: DonD
Date: 14 Apr 04 - 04:57 PM

Having finally recovered from a Trojan Horse infection and reformatting the computer , I got back on the 'Cat to dicover Rick's death and to read all of the threads, ending with this one -- with tears in my eyes. I only knew Rick and know all of you only through Mudcat postings, but regardless of Mario's art or skill, this is -- a beautiful thing!
Please find a place for my good thought somewhere out ther on the edge. Thanks.    Don

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST,MMario
Date: 15 Apr 04 - 08:32 AM

Done Don! Have a picture of the thing partially off the needles as I work the bind-off around the edge - but b-i-l co-opted the computer last night so will have to try and upload it tonight.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST,MMartio
Date: 15 Apr 04 - 10:54 AM

58 stitches, washing and blocking left to do.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST,MMario
Date: 15 Apr 04 - 11:29 AM

it's off the needles - still needs to be washed and blocked.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: black walnut
Date: 15 Apr 04 - 02:12 PM

Can't wait for the photo....

~b.w.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: wysiwyg
Date: 15 Apr 04 - 02:27 PM

Leo, wasn't the next photo going to be the secret one available only via email?

~Susan
[e-mail]
SUBJECT: Mudcat

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST,MMario
Date: 15 Apr 04 - 02:45 PM

nope - got a good one that doesn't show the secrets that I will be posting

- THEN comes the supersecretnottoberevealedonpainofdeathuntilHeathergetstheshawl photo

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST,MMario
Date: 15 Apr 04 - 03:10 PM

BTW - SRS: I had about 12 inches of the variagated left after binding off!

The silk dyed with onion skins from Carly made a nice 2.5 - 3 inch border around the whole thing as well. - had just a teeny bit left of that (from the wound - not the skein) when finished.

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 15 Apr 04 - 04:32 PM

Cutting it pretty close! (You can keep that extra piece!)

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Jeri
Date: 15 Apr 04 - 05:41 PM

"Silk dyed with ONION skins" ...oh, the irony.

MMario, you know I'd like to see it, right?

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: MMario
Date: 15 Apr 04 - 06:40 PM

new photo

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Bill D
Date: 15 Apr 04 - 07:39 PM

oh, wonderful! That is a work of love!

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: GUEST,MMario
Date: 16 Apr 04 - 08:47 AM

well - it's washed and blocked - finishing drying now. It's of a size that will work as shawl or afghan (or table cloth for that matter!) - I have pictures of the completed shawl but "we're" not going to post that until Heather actually receives this. Gotta keep a little suspense in this whole thing.

As I said above - I usually "shut down" the brain while knitting or crocheting - that proved impossible on this project - there was just too much processing going on - not with the logistics of the actual knitting - but lots of re-living of various memories and conversations

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: Áine
Date: 16 Apr 04 - 09:26 AM

Wow!! 'Nuff said. ;-)

Big hogs and snugs to you, MMario!

All the best, Áine

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: wysiwyg
Date: 16 Apr 04 - 09:52 AM

Participants:

1. For am emailed pic of the finished piece all laid out, and other important details we can't post, please EMAIL ME.

2. I'm in a crunch here at home-- gig stuff dumped in my lap by the venue for a gig tomorrow night, and I'm sick, too.

3. I need help getting word out via PM on an important matter, to the folks who have not emailed me (or via email if you have folks' addys). If you can help send some PMs for me, please email me for the updated copy to paste, and a list of names.

Thanks,

~Susan
[e-mail]
Subject: MUDCAT

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: wysiwyg
Date: 16 Apr 04 - 11:19 AM

MMario took the whole list to get started.

People, I think you already understand, but-- we are making this all up as we go along. Some details could have been planned sooner, with good result.

Some of them are only visible as we run into them. I think it's because we have something wet and salty clogging up our eyes when we work on this, so we don't always see so good. It's one day at a time for us, too.

... I miss Rick so much!

~Susan
offline till evening

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: wysiwyg
Date: 16 Apr 04 - 08:13 PM

AMAZING things happened today behind the scenes. Thanks, evveryone, especially Big Mick and MMario, and everyone who dropped me a note today.

And I have more pics to share, too, so if you have not yet written I'd like to add your address when I make a group-sent message tomorrow with additional pictures.

Love to you all--

~Susan

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: wysiwyg
Date: 17 Apr 04 - 01:12 PM

MMario is here at our house today with the shawl. A few packaging details and it will be underway.

Heather, it's too lovely to capture in a picture. This means that for people to see what they have given you, they will have to see it worn.... I had thought of it as a representation TO you, of Mudcat's care for its own, but that's a major mis-estimation. YOU will be that representative, wearing it.... you see, all the love Rick gave us here is knit right back into it and aimed your way.

So this also means that to let people see what they have given you, you're going to have to come to lots of Mudcat events and be patient when hands can't help but reach to touch it and begin getting to know a woman in such a shawl. It's irresistably, heartbreakingly lovely... the colors and textures gleam.... it's deep in tone and shot through with light, at the same time.

And you will be holding it, very soon.

~Susan

Subject: RE: A Very Special MMario Shawl
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 17 Apr 04 - 04:14 PM

Leo, and Susan, thank you for doinng this.

Allison

Subject: RE: A Very Special Shawl
From: MMario
Date: 18 Apr 04 - 10:59 AM

I've asked to have my name removed from the thread title - since the consturction of the shawl is now done - because in truth this is not a "MMario shawl" - it's a Heather shawl, or a Rick shawl - or a mudcat shawl. I'm not sure - I think it will reveal it's nature to Heather -

All *I* know is that I did not make it alone - COULD not have made it alone. And I hope that Heather feels the good wishes and love of the many,many people who contributed.

Subject: RE: A Very Special Shawl
From: wysiwyg
Date: 18 Apr 04 - 11:18 AM

Yes. And I've been thinking that a new thread telling the Story of The Shawl may be in order in a little while.

There are some things about how this project (wrong word) came to be that we have not shared yet, shedding more light on the way Mudcat has been here when the need was great. I'm pulling some text together and thinking about someone to edit that, and some of this thread, and some other things, into a piece for a thread or for the Storyteller page.

~Susan

Subject: RE: A Very Special Shawl
From: wysiwyg
Date: 18 Apr 04 - 06:57 PM

Again, there are things happening behind the scenes today and over the next few days that we will be able to share with you soon, or sooner if I have your email.

(looking for right words.....) This is the time now to sort of hold our collective breath and focus our thoughts on the personal meaning each of us attaches to this shawl, which each of us is sending to Heather.

~Susan

Subject: RE: A Very Special Shawl
From: wysiwyg
Date: 20 Apr 04 - 05:21 PM

refresh

Subject: RE: A Very Special Shawl
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 20 Apr 04 - 06:33 PM

It's been one month. We're thinking of you, Heather.

Love,
Allison

Subject: RE: A Very Special Shawl
From: Alba
Date: 20 Apr 04 - 07:14 PM

As Allison said Heather. You are still in our Thoughts and will continue to be.
Love, Light and Blessings
Jude

Subject: RE: A Very Special Shawl
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 22 Apr 04 - 12:33 AM

Refresh!

Subject: A Shawl Presented
From: wysiwyg
Date: 24 Apr 04 - 11:56 PM

Mmario completed the shawl so quickly (April 16th) that it became possible to do something special with the presentation of it to Heather. I'd like to share just the bare outline of it with all of you who participated.... it's Heather's now and we've assured her she does not need to feel pressured about how and when to respond, but I know folks are wondering what's happened.

Anyway, while it was getting finished, we were consulting various folks on the best way to deliver it. MMario brought the just-completed shawl here Saturday, April 17. By then Big Mick had hooked me up with Paul & Bev Mills, close friends of the Fieldings in Toronto, who a number of people had recommended to present it sensitively to Heather in person.

I visited FedEx first thing Monday AM, the 19th. I packed the shawl in the same bag MMario had brought it in, folded by his hands, and in fact never touched it myself or unfolded it. I can't quite describe the feeling of having it here in my house, and waiting for Fed Ex to open... It just seemed too personal to handle; sacred; solemn.   

Well, with some fancy footwork by FedEx, and wonderfully compassionate help from their local agent (I had never done FedEx and was clueless), we were able to get it to Paul & Bev in time to add to the significance to the gift. Therefore, despite having to cross the border and clear Customs, the shawl reached the Mills' home by noon the next day, Tuesday, April 20.

Paul and Bev presented the shawl to Heather over dinner at their home, that same night-- the night of the first month's anniversary of Rick's passing. Paul described it to me as a very emotional and moving presentation. How could it have been otherwise?


I have assured Paul that we do not need Heather to rush her thanks.... that our part was the making and sending, and she can take her time telling us about it, if ever.... Also, to avoid overwhelming Heather, I suggested Animaterra to represent all the shawl participants for Heather to contact first. A few of you know that an auctioned shawl mysteriously found its way to Animaterra not too long ago, for many of the same reasons Heather's shawl was created. So it all kind of comes full circle.


I would like to add to what Mmario has said, about the way things came together in marvelous ways.... there are a thousand details I could describe by now that indicate to me that this was all supposed to happen just as it did. Everytime I needed any sort of help, it was there, a beat before I needed it.

And I would like to thank you all for the kind words of appreciation you directed to me; but you know, like all of us, I only wish that I could have done so much more, and it has been quite a privilege to be part of YOUR response. It's all of you who deserve thanks-- thanks for getting on board so fast, for saying such wonderfully personal things in this thread, via PMs, and in email. Thanks for reaching out under circumstances when no one knows the right thing to say (because there IS no right thing).

Thanks for offering love and tangible support in the face of the grimness of loss and the depth of mourning.

You did good-- all of you characters. You did real good.

~Susan

Subject: RE: A Very Special Shawl
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 25 Apr 04 - 12:48 AM

It was a pleasure to be able to contribute in a small way to this Mudcat project--but I haven't met Rick or Heather, just appreciated Rick's words in various threads. No thanks is necessary. Credit and kudos to those of you who organized the manufacture of this shawl.

SRS

Subject: RE: A Very Special Shawl
From: MMario
Date: 25 Apr 04 - 04:22 PM

The comleted Shawl photos:

just washed and being blocked in evening shadows.

Showing the 'Rose of Scotland' motif in mornign sunlight

wish some other stuff in the shot to show relative size

Subject: RE: A Very Special Shawl
From: black walnut
Date: 25 Apr 04 - 04:28 PM

Gorgeous, Leo.

~b.w.

Subject: RE: A Very Special Shawl
From: Megan L
Date: 25 Apr 04 - 04:33 PM

Its beautiful

Subject: RE: A Very Special Shawl
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 25 Apr 04 - 05:13 PM

Wow! You really did quite a fancy pattern in there. That's an amazing gift, Leo (all meanings intended)!

SRS

Subject: RE: A Very Special Shawl
From: Ebbie
Date: 25 Apr 04 - 05:47 PM

How beautiful. May Heather find continual comfort in the rich depths of the heart of the shawl.

Subject: RE: A Very Special Shawl
From: black walnut
Date: 06 May 04 - 08:44 AM

Amen.

Subject: RE: A Very Special Shawl
From: jeffp
Date: 06 May 04 - 09:32 AM

Absolutely beautiful work, my friend.

Subject: RE: A Very Special Shawl
From: wilbyhillbilly
Date: 06 May 04 - 09:51 AM

Well done Leo, it is FANTASTIC.

Subject: RE: A Very Special Shawl
From: Tinker
Date: 12 Jun 04 - 02:03 PM

http://www.mudcat.org/photos/events_page.cfm?file_name_sent=200406rickfieldingtribute&part_sent=6

I had the honor of capturing a couple photos while I was up for the tribute. If you scroll to the bottom of the page, you can see Heather and the shawl.

Thanks everyone it's wonderful.


Tinker

Subject: RE: A Very Special Shawl
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 12 Jun 04 - 02:27 PM

Thank you!

Subject: RE: A Very Special Shawl
From: Carly
Date: 12 Jun 04 - 03:48 PM

Thank you, Tinker!

Subject: RE: A Very Special Shawl
From: wysiwyg
Date: 12 Jun 04 - 04:46 PM

Thanks, Tink.

Now there is just one more secret shawl-related mission to carry out, when Mick is back to traveling nor'ards.

~Susan

Subject: RE: A Very Special Shawl
From: katlaughing
Date: 12 Jun 04 - 04:58 PM

Thanks, Tink, that's wonderful!

Subject: RE: A Very Special Shawl
From: bbc
Date: 13 Jun 04 - 09:47 AM

Great photos, Tinker. Thanks so much for sharing them!

bbc

Subject: RE: A Very Special Shawl
From: Ebbie
Date: 13 Jun 04 - 01:32 PM

Wow. What great photos. The stuff of story telling.

Subject: RE: A Very Special Shawl
From: JennyO
Date: 13 Jun 04 - 01:34 PM

It's so wonderful to see her wearing the shawl and smiling.

I've never even met these people and yet I am so moved!

Thank you.

Jenny

Subject: RE: A Very Special Shawl
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 13 Jun 04 - 03:26 PM

beautiful

Allison

Subject: RE: A Very Special Shawl
From: Big Mick
Date: 27 Sep 04 - 11:01 AM

Originally I was to deliver the "extra" gift to Heather at the memorial concert. For those unaware of what I am speaking, there were a number of financial contributions made to help with the materials needed to make this wonderful shawl of love. But due to being in the hospital, I was not able to make the concert. I held on to it until I went to Toronto to work with Jed and Paul on the new CD. I presented it to Heather privately at one of the gatherings. To say that she was touched deeply is understatement at its best. Our Heather asked that I pass on to all of you her most sincere appreciation. At one point she remarked as to this being exactly why Rick felt so strongly about this community.

As her friend, I would like to add my own thanks to all of you for being the living, breathing, caring community that you are. And special thanks to Mmario and WYSIWIG for taking the lead in this and making it happen.

It is hard for me to characterize for you exactly what I saw in Heather's eyes, but it is safe to say that as she goes through the difficult process of grieving and healing, she is aided by the knowledge that there is a worldwide community of caring individuals pulling for her. I am proud of her and how she is moving ahead.

And Rick, I am sure of it, is very proud too.

All the very best,

Mick Lane

Subject: RE: A Very Special Shawl
From: black walnut
Date: 28 Sep 04 - 10:04 AM

Thanks so much, Mick.
~b.w.

Subject: RE: A Very Special Shawl
From: Big Mick
Date: 29 Sep 04 - 11:07 PM

refresh

Subject: RE: A Very Special Shawl
From: katlaughing
Date: 29 Sep 04 - 11:46 PM

Your eloquence and Big Heart leave me near speechless, Mick, full of love and such pleasure in knowing what a kind bunch of folks we have here. Thanks so much for telling us of this and news of Heather. What a family we are...I am still awestruck by it at times.

luvyakat