Ode to Someone Special...

Tonight I'm reflecting and thinking about one of my original Jewelry Meet Up participants. Anthony was the only male who attended our jewelry workshops for two years. He was there for the first class and was the first to step up to the plate to help me teach new things. Anthony's talent is Chain Maille, and I don't have to tell you how I feel about chain maille. I look at some of his work and just think...not in a million years would I even attempt! His specialty is shirts and heavy bracelets and things that are just way to big for me to ever tackle, but I admire him for it and appreciate all that he's done to support our meetings.

Anthony has been battling heart problems for sometime now. I just learned that he became terriblly ill over the weekend and was admitted into the hospital. He is in a coma with a 10% chance of survival. The last class he came to was late summer, and I think even coming out then took a lot out of him, but it was great seeing him out for a couple of hours.

I reflect tonight, because had it not been for Anthony, and his love for teaching us new chain projects , I probably wouldn't engage in the 2-3 projects that I commit to each year. The ladies had been asking about more maille projects and Anthony has not been able to attend any meetings recently. I contacted another fellow maille artist for help. I took the challenge and taught a new project and went on to finished a similar chain bracelet using the technique that was taught to me by Glady's Ruediger. As I package this piece up tonight, I know that Anthony would be proud of me and I'm thankful to him for passing through my life if only for a season!
In closing, I ask that all my readers, keep Anthony and his family in their thoughts and prayers as they go through this difficult and trying time. Tis the season for miracles and I'm hoping for one for Anthony and his family this holiday.

Unveiling in friendship,