In June 2008 we decided to meet in Park City at Jana's. At that time, Jana was a few months shy of being a 5 year breast cancer survivor. We celebrated by going on a quilt hop and visiting every quilt shop within a 50 mile radius. Good times.
Fast forward to early 2009. The cancer was back with a vengeance but Jana insisted that we continue the Sisters Days tradition. She usually picked out our project and would mail a pattern with instructions to gather supplies and come prepared. This year in the mail we got the "Chicken Quilt". I remember thinking that this was going to be interesting. I have to mention here that Jana's taste differed immensely from we other two. She was not a girly girl and hated the color pink. She liked bright and funky (hence the chickens). I like traditional and Rozanna not only likes, but loves gray and black. Still trying to convince her that a pop of red never hurts.
In July we met at Rozanna's in North Ogden. Jana's sons drove her from Park City because she couldn't make the drive herself. She was fighting a hard fight but she was slowly loosing. Now the concern was whether to push on with our project or take it easy. Jana would have none of that. We set up the sewing machines and got to work. We laughed and cried and when Jana got tired she went to bed. This was probably the most emotional, sweet, fun time we ever had together.
We named our quilts "Chicken Bliss". The 3 chickens represent the three of us, dancing and twirling and having a good time...for the last time.
Jana passed away November 21, 2009.
My quilt hangs near the door to my sewing room. Every time I pass it I think of the good woman who brought us closer together and taught me about courage and faith in the face of unbeatable odds. I love you, Jana, and this quilt is truly one of my favorites.
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