Tuesday, July 14, 2015

Gail's "Time is on my Side"

This year I read "A Brief History of Time" by noted physicist Stephen Hawking.  One thing that struck me was how every bit of matter present at the Big Bang is still present today.  Of course it is, matter can neither be created or destroyed!  Molecules simply rearrange and change into different forms.  You could potentially ingest a carbon atom that was ingested by Genghis Kahn or Jesus Christ.  Hold that thought!  When I turned 50 I suddenly developed severe psoriatic arthritis (just like Phil Michelson!).  It caused such pain and fatigue that I didn't sew for an entire year.  My rheumatologist tried first one drug and then another as they all ultimately stopped working for me.  After 3 years I was given Enbrel injections which put the disease in remission so well that I've almost forgotten I even have PA.  This drug has only been developed in the last 15 years.   "Time" has definitely been on my side!   My quilt depicts the Enbrel molecule.  It has Jane's hand dyes, Guatemalan wovens, thread and bead embellishment, and is finished with Lois' edge treatment.   My luck of having been born at the right "time" enables me to do what I love!   The name of my quilt is "Time is on my Side".

12 comments:

  1. interesting edge treatment. I like a non traditional ending!

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  2. Gail, what a fascinating "take" on our theme! And do I see some of Lois's influence in your edge treatment? This is truly an eye-catching quilt. Oh, and I am so happy for you that your doctor found a medication that keeps your serious condition so well under control that you can forget about it and do what you love!

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  3. Gail. What an interesting solution! It came out great and I think your edges are a fun addition! Wasn't sharing in Nantucket amazing!!!!

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    1. Apparently everyone left with a fun new technique as evidenced by these challenges!

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  4. Perfect! This is a powerful message in your story and quilt.

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  5. This is great Gail and so personal. I'm happy the medication helped you!! Love the "Lois" treatment! AndI love that the theme was so meaningful to you!!

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  6. Well, when I saw this quilt, I was very puzzled. I couldn't figure out how it related to time. However, your explanation is wonderful. Many of us have come through some tough times because the research and technology was indeed timely.
    Your quilt is lovely with good composition and wonderful colors and contrast. I will be ever thankful that we were able to go to Nantucket this year!

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  7. Hi Gail.... What an interesting and intriguing story that accompanies your beautiful quilt ! I saw the movie "The Time Machine" way back in the 60's and have been fascinated with the thought of time travel ever since. And then came "Star Treck" where being "beamed up" became as common a notion as traveling through time. I'll keep Dr. Hawking's book in mind !
    Thank you for sharing your story with us. Perhaps this is the year many of us are dealing with severe medical situations, and when it often seems we'll never get through these difficult times. Your story and your beautiful quilt give thoughts of hope and encouragement.
    Job beautifully and well done !

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  9. Gail, It is so positive that time can indeed "be on our side." Too often the passing of time is only seen as a negative thing. Just another example of "Better Living Through Chemistry".

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  10. I love your interpretation on the theme and your molecular abstraction! Sharing techniques was so inspiring and this size project is so perfect for experimentation.

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  11. Please forgive if I am repeating what others have said, as I have decided not to read the comments until after I made mine!
    Perfect title and perspective on our theme. I am so pleased for you that the Embrel has you in remission so that you can continue to pursue your passion.

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