Thursday, October 29, 2009

notes from cards we've received....

The many expressions of love, support & tenderness from Mom's many friends have been wonderful to read!  We are grateful to have such a wonderful legacy to help us remember and honor Emma/Mom/Oma.  I am including some of the notes from cards in this blog entry....hope it's OK with those of you who shared your thoughts with us.  We value your friendship with Mom - she truly loved and was loved by her friends......thank you!


Dear Ted & Family -

 

We just wanted to send you a few words to say how sorry we were to have missed Emma's celebration of life.  We have been following the blog so we know of the comforting words that were spoken and of the wonderful effort to ensure her flowers were bound in black and white check.  How we smiled when we read that!

 

We didn't realize until rather late that we had scheduled a presentation in front of the Southern CA Council fo Quilt Guilds 'Meet the Teachers' session for the day of the service.  Emma, as a former President of NCQC, knew the importance of these meetings, and we could just hear her telling us to go get teaching jobs.  She was always touting our talent and business, so we felt we should honor our obligation (and Emma's confidence in us, too).

 

During lunch, we held our own mini memorial with fellow teachers, including Judy Sisneros, the current president of NCQC.  We mentioned to them that we were so happy that Mildred was going to complete the Grant Wood quilt.  We hope she is allowed to display it at the Folsom Quilt Guild Show in February.  How we will miss Emma!

 

With fond memories and Best Wishes - Kris & Deb - Pixeladies


This anonymous poem holds meaning for me and I'm sharing it with you. I read of a person who at the funeral of a friend stood to speak. 

 

"He referred to the dates on the tombstone from the beginning to the end.  He noted that first came the date of birth and spoke the last date with tears.  But he said what mattered most of all was the dash between those years.  For the dash represents all the time that she spent alive on earth.  And now all those who loved her know what that little line is worth.  For it matters not how much we own, the cars...the house...the cash.  What matters most is how we live and love and how we spend our dash."

 

I have found the above to be true in the case of the loved ones I have lost.  I wish it be the same for you in your loss of Emma.  We met once as she was the enjoyable speaker we had some years ago for Pajaro Valley Quilt Association.  I joined Emma and Ted on the pier for dinner before the meeting.

 

My sister, Ardis Normanly, was a friend of Emma so she kept me up to date on the creative and vivacious Emma

 

Nora Naur Wilson


You have been in our thoughts and prayers.  Emma was truly unique in her talents and caring for her family and friends.  We'll  all miss her, but know that you shared such a great companionship - what a blessing!

 

Love, Kent & Renae Jarman 


 

We are so sorry to have lost Emma as a friend and share in your grief at this time.  May the Lord bless you at this time of parting,  Emma was truly a magnificent wife, mother and friend.

 

Sincerely - Jim & Shirley Van Wagenen 


 

I started making this card before Emma slipped through the veil but was too slow getting it done.  The colors reminded me of her and all her beautiful stitchery.  Two major talents she had were the ability to complete so many beautiful projects and have time for so many people, both in and out of the church.  I was grateful for the time she took to come to my 50th birthday celebration five years ago.  Thank you for sharing her with us.

 

Love, Bev Bair 


(Written to Dad)

I have known Emma for years and bought lots of fabric from her!  I was in Gypsy Traders with her and was at the meeting when you (referring to Dad) did a program for us on your wonderful art work.  You and she were a very talented couple.  Although we did not meet personally, I wanted to send you a card to express my admiration for her and the wonderful projects she completed and taught.  I do hope the happy memories of your life with Emma will be some comfort to you in this difficult time.  My sympathy to you and your family.

 

Pat Barrett


We all have such wonderful memories of Emma and your family.  We know that she is adding much sparkle and joy to all those around her.  The Gospel is true and we are so blessed with our testimonies of this knowledge.

 

Dorothy Miller & family 


 

Remembering happy times at the shop -

 

In Christian Love - Margge Wood Taylor


I have always remembered how kind and helpful you and your family were when my Dad passed away.  I pray others near you can do the same for you at this difficult time.

 

Sincerely, Kary Sutliff DeCoster


 

I have so many sweet memories of Emma - of lovely times in her home admiring her incredible talents.  She will be so fondly missed by a host of friends as well as her dear family.  My heart is saddened at her passing so suddenly.  I trust you are finding comfort in the promise of a future reunion by Him who sends his comforter to us in such times of grieving.  May all your loving memories bring you a measure of peace and solace.

 

Love, Joan Thomas


 

Dear Emma -    (Oct 4)

 

I was so saddened to hear you have leukemia, while I so admire your tenacity and courage to let nature take its course.  By that choice you have been given the incredible blessing of reconnecting with those far and near to say all that needs to be said, with no regrets.  And that is my reason for writing.

 

....Your choice does not surprise me at all because in the short time I have know you, through SAQA (6-7 years?) I have continually been impressed by your presence in the world.

 

You are such a great role model to all women, but particularly to those of us in the next generation.  You have aged with such dignity and graciousness.  You shun the dull beige of old ladies and proudly wear your GORGEOUS hand-made clothing.  You have mentored many women, probably without even knowing it, by refusing to be cast aside.  Whenever I feel down-trodden by the ravages of aging, I will thank of you!  You are a truly stellar example of a dynamic elder, and I thank you for that.

 

I wish you safe passage and feel so grateful that we crossed paths.

 

With blessings and love, Carol Larson


Finally, I am up and going enough to drop you a line and tell you how much you have all been in our thoughts and prayers over the past few weeks!  We were so shocked and saddened at the sudden illness and loss of our sweet Emma.  If only we had made our plans to visit just a few weeks earlier!  How fortunate we are to have the gospel and many wonderful memories to cherish!  We love you all and would love to see you...

 

Nolan & LeAnn Leishman


We here in this family extend our deep understanding at this loss you are experiencing with the passing to a better world of your wife and mother.  At some time in the future you all will be reunited.  The enclosed little verse expresses part of this process.  We express to each of you our deep understanding and awareness of your inner feelings at this time.  Her spirit, her love is as close to each of you as always.  We all must go forward - bless each of you! 

 

Alicia, Katherine & Gene Naumann..as well as Miriam, as she is a bit ahead of us at this time.  Be well each!

 

Near shady wall a rose once grew,

Budded and blossomed in god's free light,

Watered and fed by morning dew,

Shedding its sweetness day and night.

 

As it grew and blossomed fair and tall,

Slowly rising to loftier height,

It came to a crevice in the wall

Through which there shone a beam of light.

 

Onward it crept with added strength

With never a thought of fear or pride,

It followed the light through the crevice's length

And unfolded itself on the other side.

 

The light, the dew, the broadening view

Were found the same as they were before,

And it lost itself in beauties new,

Breathing its fragrance more and more.

 

Shall claim of death cause us to grieve

And make our courage faint and fall?

Nay! Let us faith and hope receive -

The rose still grows beyond the wall.

 

Scattering fragrance far and wide

Just as it did in days of yore,

Just as it did on the other side,

Just as it will forevermore.

 

from the writings of A.L. Frink


I was shocked and saddened to hear of Emma's passing.  I have so many fond memories of my service and association with her - and our two families' friendship.  God bless you at this difficult time - my love to you and your family.

 

Barbara Walker


A member of your church came into Solar Cookers today....  She informed me of your wife's passing.  I am truly sorry for your loss.  I only met her the once, but she made a wonderful impression on me.  I can not thank you enough for your passion about solar cooking.  Your efforts have not been in vain.  Again we are all sorry for your loss. 

 

Yours truly, Rene Hamlin


We're thinking of you today - as we do each day - so we're dropping you a line.  We hope you are doing as well as possible under the circumstances.  We're sure your family and friends give you much comfort.  How fortunate they are so near.

 

Fondly, Chuck & Liz Thayer


This is a birthday card sent from Mom's Relief Society Presidency (who are also good friends)....her 78th birthday would have been on Oct 23.  (this was written before the seriousness of mom’s condition was evident)

 

You are an amazing woman with so many talents to share with us.  Hope you have a fantastic birthday with a year filled with good health and lots of fun memories.

Love, Nancy Boyle

 

May this be a healthy, memorable year filled with new adventures.  No one can fill your shoes in talent, service and support.  You are a great missionary, mother, wife and grandmother.  I love , admire and appreciate you!  You have a strong testimony and are a great example to me.

Love you, Marilyn Johnson

 

You are so talented and so willing to share your talents with others.  I hope you start to feel better soon.  I miss you in Relief Society!  Have a nice birthday!

Love, JoAnn Gray

 

Sure hope you are back to being healthy by Oct. 23.  Relief Society hasn't been the same without you.  (I'm writing this while you are still sick.)  You truly are my most talented friend and used to be the best 'walking' friend.

Love, LeNae Snow


Jim & I were so sorry to hear of Emma's death.  We so enjoyed our times with her when you had our Art class at your house.  Please know that you will be in our thoughts and prayers.  Jim and I have both had health problems that have kept us from joining your class recently but we hope to come back in January.

 

Much Love, Elsie Hawkins


I'll miss seeing Emma and her wonderful designs.

 

Blessings, Sheila Bayley


I am so glad to have known Emma and have such wonderful memories of Emma.  She is such an inspiration of creativity, generosity, and kindness.  May your memories be a comfort to you.  You are in my prayers.

 

Sincerely, Ellen Sly


I will always cherish my memories of Emma.  She was so gifted and I am blessed for knowing her.  My heartfelt prayers and love to you and your family.

 

Carol Saffold


 

I have just read of the loss of your loved one.  It seems so unfair that death should have the power to take away someone you love.  The thought of never again being able to see or speak to your loved one can be most difficult to bear.

 

The Bible, however, indicates that it is possible to be reunited with your dead loved one in the near future right here on earth under peaceful conditions.  Jesus Christ promised that millions now dead will live again when he said..."the hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear His voice and come out..." John 5:28.29

 

Jehovah God, Has promised to restore Paradise on this earth under the rule of His heavenly kingdom.  In that restored Paradise, the human family will have the prospect of enjoying life without end, free from all sickness and disease.  Rev 21:1-4

 

Sincerely, John Novak


All of the Gypsys are so very blessed to have had 'Emma' in our lives for the time we were given.  We all loved her and her humor in stories she shared.

 

Such a genteel, multi-talented and charming lady.  I will never forget!

 

A fellow quilter and Gypsy, Varene Teresi


Sincere sympathy on the loss of Emma.  We will all miss her - especially her Penwomen friends.  I will keep you in my prayers.

 

Gloria Givens


Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.  We will miss Sister Allebes dearly.  Thank goodness for Eternity!

 

Love, Kellee Crill & girls


My heart goes out to all of you, because I know what a great loss this is for you.  Not only have I admired Emma for her many talents, but also for being such a positive, generous, up-beat personality and great friend.  Ted, you and Emma had such a great marriage, and your close and loving family have been an inspiration to all who have known you.  I know she will be sorely missed (even Jesus shed tears over Lazarus' death), but I pray that your love and faith will sustain you in this very sad time.

 

Also, I want to thank Shenna very much for e-mailing me about Emma's illness.  I was in So. Lake Tahoe taking care of grandchildren at the time.  When I returned home and read it, I was upset by the sad news, and had hoped to see her; unfortunately that was the Tuesday she died.  I talked with your sisters after the funeral, and waited to see you.  However, Dorothy Miller waylaid me and took me back to the kitchen to see several of my other former neighbors.  You were gone when I returned.  I don't know how you were able to handle it, but your eulogy was such an interesting and lovely tribute to you mother.

 

Sincerely Yours, Pat Biasotti


We were away and when we returned, I found the sad news of Emma's death.  She was an extraordinary woman and will be missed.  Please share my sadness with your fmaily.

 

Sincerely, Eleanor Mitchell


Our Memory of Emma

 

We all belong to the Gypsy Trader Antique Club and met Emma there.  She was such a funny,  jovial and kind person.  It was fun to see what kind of an outfit she would wear to our meetings because they all were so unique. 

 

A few years ago at the yearly Gypsy fundraiser we bid and won a fabulous dinner for six that she had donated.  As most people know, her house is like a museum.  There is great art work on the walls done by Ted, Emma's beautiful quilts and wearable art and their Scandinavian collectibles...it was wonderful to see.  We were all enthralled looking at everything.  So much talent under one roof!!  Our dinner was great and hearing all the stories told by Emma and Ted was so interesting.  It was a wonderful evening and we all will never forget it.  Thanks for being the gracious woman you were, Emma.  We will miss you.

 

Our sympathy to Ted and family,

 

Shirley Cardinale    Judy Becerril    Mary Ann Ramos


 

Each of you has been so much in my thoughts and prayers since I learned of Emma's very serious illness and subsequent death a little over a week later.  I was devastated when I heard the news, and I am still reeling from the shock.  I feel very sad about her passing.

 

The service on Saturday was a beautiful and very fitting tribute to Emma.  It was filled with love, warmth, and adulation interspersed with some humor.  Shenna, your eulogy was wonderful as was Merritt's speech.   And the musical selection performed by the grandchildren was very touching.  You are an outstanding family, and Emma was so proud of you, as you’re proud, Ted.

 

Emma will live on in my mind and heart always.  What an incredible lady she was - talented, gracious, accomplished, successful, and positive.  Sacramento is a much better place because of her outstanding contribution.

 

Ted, you and Emma were a great team.  It was so enjoyable to be at your Wedding Anniversary Celebration and enjoy the beauty of your home and the artistic creations by each of you.  You were equally talented.

 

Emma has left a beautiful legacy for you and all who knew and loved her.  I grieve with you in your sadness over her loss, but I rejoice with you in the memory of her very fulfilling and outstanding life.

 

May God bless each of you and keep you during this very difficult time.

 

Very sincerely, Oleta


 

We were at Emma's funeral, but as it was so well attended, we didn't really get a chance to express our love and condolences to you all.  Emma was truly an extraordinary lady!  Please tell your daughter and son-in-law what a wonderful job they did on their talks.  Both were so appropriate and well done especially considering the difficult emotional circumstances.  We were so grateful we could be in attendance to honor Emma's life, and to have known her.  Our love and prayers are with you.

 

Love to you all, Judy & John Hansen


The service was lovely!  I'm sure your lovely church family-friends will extend their caring ways with calls, food and visits.  Please know I would also be happy to help as well...  I've been so thankful many times that I was able to 'recruit' Emma to come to Pen Women!  What a joy for all of the members.- especially me!  Her unwritten story will be beautiful!

 

Love, Lou Stewart


Bishop Allebes, I am so sorry to hear about Emma. I remember when our family was new in the Ward.  Derek and Trevor were Primary age and Emma invited us over to get to know 'The Roberts' better.  She was so gracious that way.  Showed us around your house and all the beautiful artwork and of course her prize washer and dryer.  I will always remember that time.  I have fond memories of the FO Stake.   Visited with a lot of them when they came to Derek's service!  People still come up to me and ask how I am doing as I know they do to you.  Pretty much the answer that summer was 'it sucks'! Even with the Gospel Plan and the knowledge that families are forever, I miss my son and I know you miss Emma!  You and your family are in our prayers.

 

Love, Dennis & Willy Roberts


  

Saturday, October 17, 2009

Thank you, Emma!

Dear Family and Friends of Emma,

I send my heartfelt sympathies to you for the loss of your beloved Emma.  You don’t know me and neither did Emma, but she had a profound impact on my life. I felt compelled to let you know how one person in a brief encounter can affect so many people.

 

I was lucky enough to be on jury duty with Emma for a day or two back in the 1970’s when I was in my early 20’s.  To pass the time, Emma was quilting (of course!).  She took the time to show and explain to me what she was doing and I was hooked.  I never saw her after that but always remembered her name for she created or released in me a lifelong love of quilts and quilting.  I am eternally grateful to her for that brief time we spent together. 

 

And just as a pebble in the water casts out so many rippling circles, Emma’s circle spread wide.  After I learned to quilt, I would frequently quilt on my breaks at work.  This caught the attention of a co-worker, Lindy Mundy.  Again the lure of quilting grew and for Lindy it grew in a big way.  Early in her career she started a quilt store and has been in the quilting business ever since.  She is the current owner of Bearpaws and Hollyhocks Quilt shop in Sacramento.  You can only guess at how many people have been affected and blessed by Emma’s initial quilting lesson given to me that day on jury duty. 

 

Thank you, Emma!  Your legacy will always live in my heart!

Warmly,

Pam Parker

 

SAQA

In Memoriam - Emma Allebes


Our dear friend Emma died peacefully Tuesday evening after a very short bout with leukemia. She was a faithful member of SAQA (and had renewed her membership this year for three years), a mentor to many, and a friend to all. We will miss her colorful outfits at our SAQA meetings, her meticulously executed quilts, and her cheerful banter in the carpool. May the spirit of her generosity and kindness stay with us all. You can read about her last days at www.emmaallebes.blogspot.com. We are organizing a group donation to SAQA from our region. If you wish to contribute and do not receive an email from kris@pixeladies.com in the next few days concerning this effort, please email her.

Friday, October 16, 2009

MOM STILL MAKES US LAUGH!

We've been going through a bunch of stuff the last week to help Dad. We keep coming upon things of Mom's that bring back fond memories, make us laugh - and sometimes are outright surprising. Dad showed us yesterday that Mom has a Collection of Christmas Mugs. Now this isn't just 8 or 10 Christmas mugs - it's drawers and drawers full of Christmas mugs! We knew she loved fabric, shoes, beads & buttons, socks, chocolate, Santas, Patriotic things, sweaters and lots of other 'stuff'....but the Christmas Mug collection had Heather & I totally surprised....we just closed the drawers and decided we'll tackle that task another time. We're still shaking our heads on that one!

Mom really did have wonderful intentions of someday writing her Life Story. We've found several pads of paper, journals, notes, etc with just a page or two filled in with ideas or a short thought about her life.

Today we found the following notes on a piece of graph paper:

'When my daughter went to college - only one not to complain about food.'
I wonder which daughter she was thinking about?

'Filing system - put everything on the table in a bag - label occasion for which it was ???'
Couldn't read the last word....this sounds waaay too much like a filing system I sometimes resort to!

'How could anyone let a hobby take over the whole house?'
Is she quoting Dad?...or asking this question herself in observation of someone else?

'Aunt Virginia - collected cats.'
Never heard of an Aunt Virginia....I'm curious!

'Irma Bombeck'
Mom always enjoyed Irma Bombeck's sense of humor.

'Dispersing old treasures is never easy.'
Wow - we can really relate to that one right now!

'Ted said - when we bought the shop (referring to Tayo's Fabrics & Quilts) it was a formality.'
This was in reference to Mom's already prolific fabric stash at home.

'Fabric & using ratio compare with men buying tools - called Black and Decker syndrome!'
Dad's does have lots of garden tools and art supplies - but it still doesn't compare to the quantity of space Mom's fabric, shoes, etc....and mugs occupy!

This is the one that had us laughing over and over....

'Make a pack (sic) with someone. If anything happens to me, get to my house right away and get out as much fabric as you can. The family would be more shocked about the amount of fabric than they would be about my condition.'
Hmmmm - wonder if Mom ever made that 'pact' with someone (anyone want to confess?). We just think this comment, considering Mom's recent passing and our currently going through lots and lots of 'stuff' is hilarious!

If we study the Scriptures - Tears of Gratitude

Friday, October 16, 2009
 
    At Dad's request, Shenna and I have spent this past week sorting through specific areas in the home to simplify things for Dad. 
    Yesterday Shenna came across a large number of scriptures that haven't been used lately but may have some significance for our family.  One book of scriptures is a Quad (Holy Bible, Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants & Pearl of Great Price) that belonged to Ted & Judy Allebes (Dad's parents). 
    This morning I asked Dad if he'd like to use them or if he'd like me to put them aside where we're gathering significant items for later family distribution.  Dad asked me if there were any notes written by either his mother or father that we can learn from.
    I found the following written by Oma (Dad's mother Judy) in the back of the scriptures on one of the empty pages:
 
    If we study the Scriptures
    1 The distance narrows between Self and Heavenly Father.
    2 Our spirituality shines brighter.
    3 We love more intensely those when we should love.
    4 It is much easier to follow council.
    5 Lessons of life are learned more readily and surely.
    6 We will find our answers.
 
    I'm grateful for those notes written many years ago.  They will remind me to make reading the scriptures a priority which will make me a better person.
    What does this have to do with Mom?  Even though she had A LOT of things (we've discovered a mug collection that we hadn't been prepared for), I'm grateful that mom recognized the importance of keeping items of significance for us to later be blessed by.  We've come across mother's day cards that we made when we were children.  One of them includes a poem that I wrote.  We (Shenna, Reaka & I) laughed about it for quite a while as I reread it out loud many times.  There are also several lovely cards that Dad created for Mom. 
    This week with Shenna and my father has been physically, mentally and emotionally exhausting but it's also been joyful.  As we talked about some practical financial matters last night, Dad once again expressed his gratitude for all the support that he has received.  Dad said, "I want you to know that the only tears that I have shed are tears of gratitude."   I feel tears in my eyes typing this but I also can say that they are tears of gratitude.  Gratitude for a loving Heavenly Father, for my savior Jesus Christ, for being raised in a uniquely inspiring family, having a wonderful husband and three amazing daughters, many good friends, and the list goes on.  At this time I'm particularly grateful that I've been able to be here during my mother's last time on earth, with extended family and friends that gathered to commemorate mom's life, and this last week. 
    I expect there will be many wonderful times ahead, inevitable challenges also, and I hope to better live my life so that I will be as ready as my mother was my earthly days have ended.
 
    Heather Allebes Phillips (middle daughter) - phillipsabq@gmail.com
 
 
 

Thursday, October 15, 2009

NEED VIDEOS OF EMMA

My son, Eric, is creating a memory video of Emma/Mom/Oma. Most of it will include photos of Mom and video of her family sharing memories of her. However, Eric is hoping someone might have some video footage of Emma that he could also include? If you do have video footage of Mom from something - maybe a fashion/trunk show she did...or anything else? Please let me know....thanks!

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY

Dad often created cards for Mom on his computer - some fun pics with text. We've been helping Dad streamline his life and go through some things and found this 'card' he created for Mom - there isn't a date, but it's especially appropriate to share right now:

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY

Another great day to commemorate. What a royal word this 'Mother'. Giving of oneself, time energy, as a counselor and teacher, nurse, financial advisor, peacemaker, lawmaker, story reader, school advocate, taxi driver, cook and bottle washer, example of the Lord's commandments and many other positions.

Mom is everything and everywhere and the only reward she has, for the platinum hair, the headaches, the sleepless nights, the wrinkles, the daytime worries, is to see her children grow up gracefully.

I am so thankful that I had enough sense to change my maroon shirt, and start a new way of life. They have been good years and it seem to be even getting better.

I am looking forward to many more years doing things together, and then to meet on the other side and start all over again.

Love you very much, Ted

....read Mom's Eulogy (included in this blog) to understand the reference to the maroon shirt...and of course the last phrase about 'meeting on the other side' is now so very appropriate!....

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Emma Made My Day

Years ago we had a talent showing at one of the Pioneer Day Events and Emma and Ted were touring the events that day and saw a painting I did of a very young chinese girl.  That day Emma asked if I would be willing to sell my painting to her.  I was very touched because you have two very, very talented people who wanted my painting.  That made my day!  She will be missed.  What a wonderful legacy she is leaving and what a wonderful person.  Joeann Rollins

Monday, October 12, 2009

Goodbye, Emma

Goodbye, Emma...

http://vallejohermitage.blogspot.com/2009/10/goodbye-emma.html

Emma Allebes, one of my favorite people, crossed over last week. Emma was a woman of extraordinary talent and creativity in the fabric art world. She made some of the most wonderful quilts and wearable art I've ever seen - colorful, imaginative, flamboyant, sometimes silly, always excellently crafted, and, most definitely, never boring! I met her many years ago when I was just a novice at art quilting, and used to attend quarterly meetings of the NorCal SAQA group. I've been unable to attend the meetings for quite a while, and have missed the group very much - the inspiration I got from seeing and talking with those exceptionally creative women every few months kept me going, even though their creativity and talent often awed me into an intimidated speechlessness (yes, they did... can you imagine???) I especially missed Emma - she imparted the most delicious sense of humor and style, and was such a delight to talk to, and to listen to. She was a great story-teller, an excellent teacher and always inspired me with her sense of flair and fearlessness in creativity and her joie de vivre. I attended her memorial service yesterday afternoon, and was moved by the wonderful tributes and stories I heard about her life. It was especially delightful to see all of the gorgeous flower tributes festooned with black and white checkered ribbon - one of Emma's imprimaturs, and present in so much of her work. Years ago, she and her husband, Ted, started Tayo's fabric store in Fair Oaks. It was too far away from me for a casual run to a quilt shop, but I usually made a point of stopping there after SAQA meetings, and loved the selection of fabrics that so closely mirrored my own tastes.

I'm so very grateful I had the opportunity to know Emma. Shalom, and נוחי על משכבך בשלום, My Friend.
Francie
Shenna Mealey

Taxi Cab outfit

I especially thought of you when Emma Allebes got up and showed her quilts. You would love her. She is the Ultimate Grandma. She is "Oma" to her dears. She is famous for her Taxi Cab outfit (who wouldn't be!) and her grandaughter had her for Show and Tell. We have a new height to attain to as our future Grandmotherdom unfolds. It's good to be inspired.

Shenna Mealey

Trunk Show pics

Some pics, etc from a Trunk Show Mom did....

PRESENTATION

Emma Allbeles
A Trunk Show of Quilts and Wearable Art



JANUARY 2005 -- Emma Allebes was our featured speaker in January. She shared the stories that have inspired the design of her quilts and garments. Hopefully this has awaken your own ideas as sources for designing your own creations.



Many thanks to our
beautiful models.


Guild members enjoy a close-up look after the presentation.

Shenna Mealey

'Rooseline'

This was a project Mom & Dad worked on together. Living in Fair Oaks with all the feral chickens & roosters in Fair Oaks Village - combining the Rooster with the Lion theme was a lot of fun.
Arts&Culture

Pride of lions


By Erin Sierchio
More stories by this author...

This article was published on 07.29.04.

Ted and Emma Allebes, “Roosaline,” polyurethane and mixed-media.

Maybe it’s because we’re tired of being called a cow town that we’ve decided not to copy Chicago’s Cows on Parade exhibit. Instead, we’ve elected an animal we can be proud of: the lion. More than 60 life-sized lions, painted and embellished by area artists, are currently roaming the streets. The colorful cats are part of Lions on Safari, a region-wide civic art project that hopes to promote public art and increase tourism. The lions will be on display through September, after which they will be auctioned off to raise money for the Sacramento Zoo and the Developmental Disabilities Service Organization. The lions can be found throughout Sacramento, El Dorado, Placer and Yolo counties. Log onto www.lionsonsafari.com for exact locations. To find “Roosaline,” the rooster-lion hybrid pictured above, head to the American River Bank, 10123 Fair Oaks Boulevard in Fair Oaks. Call (916) 443-0000 for more info.

e
Shenna Mealey

'Let Us Oft Speak Kind Words'

This is another quilt that Mom entered in the LDS Church International Art Competition. This quilt is named after Dad's favorite hymn,
Let Us Oft Speak Kind Words, Emma Allebes Let Us Oft Speak Kind Words

Emma Allebes
Patchwork textile, 2000


The theme for the quilt comes from the hymn, "Let Us Oft Speak Kind Words," which contains such words as "love," "friendship," and "hope." To create it the artist purchased fabrics and printed beautiful words by hand on the cloth. Next she collected sixteen different black and camel printed fabrics. A star pattern was designed for the center and first border. The second border is the batik with miniature flying geese dividing the final border of a Dutch wax print purchased in Holland.
Shenna Mealey

Shenna's Favorite

Mom made lots of beautiful things...among many of her creations that I love, this is my own personal favorite. This quilt is currently owned by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and is in their permanent art collection. http://www.ldsmag.com/arts/010822worldview.html


Women of All Nations: Nurturing Peace
Embroidered fabric, 1996

Emma Allebes b. 1931 United States

Sister Allebes revealed that as sources for this quilt she chose a folk art style and sources from Scandinavian quilting. She said that it has been the pioneering work of women from nations throughout the world that peace continues to be maintained on earth. This is suggested by the expressive and joyful gestures of women across the quilt, from a farm woman before her home on the left, to contemporary women on with their residences. Birds are widely known as representations of peace. Hand embroidery work is the main tech-nique used by the maker as the picture elements have been created, while the quilting itself is done by a sewing machine.
Museum collection

Shenna Mealey

What is Your Emma Story?

This blog is a chance to remember and honor Emma by bringing us together in a way that can only be done through a medium like the internet. We love her, we will miss her, but she's here for a short time still, and we want to smile and cry and laugh together with her as much as possible while we can.

Emma has touched a monumental number of lives through her work as a mother, grandmother, friend, teacher, artist, and to Ted as a dear wife. There are countless stories that have already been told many times, and there are many others that we're going to learn for the first time as we read them here.

PLEASE SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS, STORIES AND PICTURES!!!

Not only will we be able to laugh and smile together, even after Emma has passed, but we will be sharing this blog with Emma. If you have a story, long or short, silly or sad, pensive or outrageous, please take some time and share it with us and Emma.

This is such a dear time for all of us. Thank you for your thoughtfulness and prayers.

It's easy! To post to Emma's blog, send an email to emmaallebes.post@blogger.com. If you have a picture(s) that you would like to add, make it an attachment to the email. Your email will post automatically.

Please remember to include your name somewhere in the email/post.