old essays blog: Harmony Quilts

"Make new friends, but keep the old -

One is silver and the other is gold"

This is going to be a looong post because my dear friend Lauren and I go back a looong way. In other words, get comfortable. But you won't regret it because it's a great story :)

Lauren and I met when we were 12, and she was passing out papers in Mr. Schutze's homeroom class in junior high. We were instant friends. I still have notes we'd send each other in class. She still remembers every boy I ever liked.

Lauren and I went on trips together, and lived at each others' houses on weekends. I think perhaps music, the beach, swimming, and boys were probably the biggest topics of conversation at all times back then - and probably not in that order.

Lauren and I went through thick and thin. Even after years went by, I moved away, times changed, and we both got married and started families... we stayed friends. Friends on opposite coasts, but friends still the same.

Lauren with Kevin, and me with Daniel... about 22 years ago :)

Lauren developed a talent I never knew about until my first child, Daniel, was born. She sewed. She quilted! And she did it beautifully! Above is one of my prized possessions - the quilt she made when Daniel was born. One of several things she has made for us over the years. I was so touched I was speechless. To this day, I still marvel over it.

Fast forward many years. You may remember this post a few months ago when Lauren had started making some adorable pillows and I was so thrilled to receive the Peace Pillow, above.

Well after much cajoling and endless pleas from all her enthusiastic friends and family members, I am thrilled and delighted to announce that Lauren opened her own store on Etsy! Wa-hooo!!! She has named it Harmony Quilts and it's awesome! In fact, I purchased the little Peace Pillow above from her Etsy store to go with the one she had sent to me. They are already dear friends just like Lauren and I :)

I am so happy for this new venture in Lauren's life. I not only know the huge heart that lies beneath the surface, but I know the talent as well. I think she has a lot to look forward to. I think we all do! Her stitches are perfect. She's so friendly and professional. Her materials are the best. She's got great fashion sense. Check out some of her pillows from her store, below, and then be sure to bookmark Harmony Quilts so you can see the rest of her store and keep up with her growing business! Best wishes my friend!