Sept. 5/10

Firstly, I must tell you how much I have been enjoying your magazine the last number of years. So many interesting stories, articles, recipes, etc. I have enjoyed many a good laugh and some challenging puzzles too! There truly is something for everyone.

The photo speaks for itself. Everyone I shared this story with felt it was so inspirational, it should be shared with as many as possible. Needless to say, since these two beautiful ladies are from Newfoundland, I thought of your magazine! If you feel it may be appropriate, please feel free to print! If not, share with your friends so they too can be inspired!. Stay well and be happy.

Ann Shears

I am enclosing a picture of me wearing "the sweater" to give you an idea of the work involved. It looks much better minus my head! :-)

The Friendship Sweater
(90 years in the making)

There are definitely some life experiences too unique and special not to be shared. It is uplifting and quite frankly a necessity to hear the "good," "the inspirational" - that which maintains or restores our faith in humankind.

For me personally, this story begins in 1977 with new employment, new coworkers and, soon to be, a lifelong friend - Jane Crawley. Jane and her family moved to Sydney in 1954 from Bay Du Nord, Newfoundland.

We enjoyed many years together, but unfortunately our time was shortened by Jane's passing in 2005. Our hearts will cherish her memory forever, as she was an exceptional person, friend and humanitarian.

Over the years, of course, you grow to know each other's family members and develop relationships with them as well. Jane's mother's name is Pearl Farrell - a dear, precious lady and dedicated wife and mother. Pearl is also very talented, knitting being one of her areas of expertise. She made several sweaters for my husband and myself, "all beautiful and always worn with pride!"

In 2009, Pearl had mentioned to me that she would like to make me yet another sweater. . . "because you and Janie were such good friends." As much as I would enjoy and appreciate receiving her beautiful handiwork, I was concerned about her arthritic hands and felt it would be too much for her.

Time passed, and a few weeks before her 90th birthday (July 25, 2010), she phoned me to ask if I would visit soon, because she had something for me. "Something indeed - more than she could ever realize!"

Our visit began with Pearl's story of her friend Marcella Pittman, from Placentia, Newfoundland. Marcella will be turning 90 on August 22, 2010. They were little girls when their friendship began, and to this day, they chat weekly by phone. In one of those conversations, Pearl had shared with Marcella her wish to make Janie's friend one "last sweater." Unfortunately, her hands would not allow her to do so! I understand Marcella didn't say too much at the time, but, clearly, the wheels had been set in motion!

Some time later, Pearl received a package - a package whose story will be told for my lifetime, as it is a testament to true friendship. Marcella has fulfilled Pearl's wish for my sweater, and the workmanship could only be described as a "masterpiece!" I can't imagine the hours of work, but I can imagine the love intertwined with every stitch. The colour is striking and the pattern complex.

The sweater, "90 years in the making," represents the culmination of an enduring friendship, an example to us all of true friendship and the importance of nurturing each other's souls.

In one package, I received a beautiful new sweater, an obviously beautiful new friend and the timeless message of friendship.

I can find no words to adequately express my gratitude - so perhaps the story of the depth of their friendship, now on paper, will serve as a fitting "tribute" to both. "Pearl and Marcella - I am humbled by your kindness - I am honoured to be your friend - I am inspired by the love you share!"

With love and gratitude,

Ann   Submitted By: NULL