Hi everyone,
We went to St. Louis Friday, because Rebecca had the day off and wanted to take a day trip and do some shopping.
While we were at our last stop, before coming home, I received a call that my mom had had a stroke. It was a bad one and she hasn’t been conscious since. My brother and sisters came home as quickly as they could and we are all here now…waiting for the inevitable.
I need to step away and be with my family right now. I will be back when I can…
If you want, please chat amongst yourselves…about dolls or whatever you want!
I’ll see you when I see you…
Blessings, Jeanne
Oh, Jeanne, I’m so sorry. Please know that you and your whole family will be in my prayers at this difficult time.
Since I’m the first one (as far as I know) to see/respond, I’ll ask a question to get us started.
What is the most fun doll activity you have done? It could be a convention, a conference, a visit to a special doll museum, whatever.
For me, it was the visit to Babyland General Hospital in Cleveland, GA. For those of you not familiar with Babyland, it is the home of the Cabbage Patch Kids! When I was there, in the mid-to-late 1990s, it was still in its original location, a former medical clinic; it has since moved to a new facility, and I would love to visit some time!!
At the time I went, I had taken the train and Atlanta was one of my stops. My girlfriend Liz lived near Atlanta at the time, so I stayed with her for a few days, and she took me to Babyland. I brought along Dawn Hollye, my first Original (that is, all soft sculpted/hand painted) CPK, and of course she came with us to Babyland! She got a “visitor” ID to wear, and we all enjoyed seeing the various displays–the classroom, the Christmas room, etc.
The big attraction, of course, was the “Mother Cabbage”, under the “Magic Crystal Tree”. I wanted to adopt a baby I saw being born there, so I filled out the paperwork–you could choose hair/eye color and boy/girl. I chose red curly topknot and blue eyes, and it could be either a girl or a boy. Then we had to wait–and when they announced that Mother Cabbage had gone into labor, everyone assembled around the birthing place! Liz held Dawn while I took pictures! It was a baby girl, named (with a little help/reminder from Liz) Katherine Elizabeth, and it was such a fun and exciting time! I got to hold her briefly before they took her to the nursery to be weighed and dressed, and then Liz took our pictures while Dawn Hollye and I took the oath of adoption. Such a fun day!
Okay, your turn!!
Hi Jeanne,
I know I don’t comment much, not being the type to do much on line. But I do read your posts daily. I enjoy keeping up with what you make as well as your life. That said, my heart is aching for you, as well as your family, in this difficult time. You’ll be in my prayers, as well as your family. *hugs from all the way from BC Canada*
Jeanne and Family, My heart goes out to you all. Your Mom and you all have been through very hard times for the last few months. So hard to see Mom ill and can’t do anything to help make it better. Prayers for All of you.
Take Care,
Sylvia in NH
Oh Jeanne, my heart breaks for you! I don’t know if you will even see this, but I hope God’s will be done with your dear mother, just know that she is in God’s hands now. Take all the time you need before coming back tot he blog. We understand.
My most fun doll experience? I guess it was the first time I ever walked into an American Girl store! I think it was the Kansas City store, where we stopped on our way to Denver, but then when getting to Denver, we also went to the AG store there. All the dolls, clothes, and everything so bright and cheerful! Then, a couple of years later, we also got our own store here in St. Louis, (which has since been closed) which made it even more fun! to add to the excitement, one of the saleswomen recognized me from visiting at the KC store, and we looked at each other, and both said “what are YOU doing here?”!!! It turns out, that her husband was transferred here from KC and I lived in St. Louis! We had many fun visits to the store and I got to know her very well. It was so sad to have the store close.
I don’t want this to end on a sad note, but at least KC won the Superbowl!! Yay!
Yay for KC. My hubby’s family is from Kansas and my father-in-law always rooted for the Chiefs. Wish he could have been here to see them win the Super Bowl after waiting 50 years.
Sending prayers Jeanne. (((HUGS)))
Bonjour Jeanne,
Toutes mes pensées vont vers toi et ta famille.
Amicalement,
Sophie in Brittany
Dear Jeanne,
I’m sending prayers, love, and hugs to you, your mom, and your family.
Julia
Thoughts with your mom, you, and family. I’m sure your mom is comfortable and feels her loved ones are nearby even though she can’t communicate. Thinking of you all.
So sorry about your dear mother. Hopefully she is at peace even now. We’ll be thinking of you and your wonderful family in the coming days. Thanks for always sharing with us.
Thinking of you and your family, Jeanne. Take care.
Oh Jeanne, I am so sorry to hear this. This reminds me so much of what happened with my mother. She was living with my youngest sister and they were on their way to grocery shop when she had her stroke. Two of my sisters were living in Wilmington, DE, where mother was but I was in Texas and another sister in Florida. After we were called to come to Wilmington we both caught the first flight we could and were met in the Philly airport by one of my sisters. Mother was in hospice (totally amazing place) and we knew she was in good hands but she never regained conscientiousness. She went to be with the angels a week later. It’s been nearly thirteen years now but I still find myself wanting to call her and give her news. But she probably already knows because I feel she’s with me every day. My sincere prayers are with you and your family. God bless you and keep you in His calming presence through this difficult time.
What was the most fun doll activity I’ve ever had? Well I think that happened just recently. When Jeanne returns I will send some pictures. I went to the AG store to buy that wonderful upright piano that is so well made and actually plays. Hubby thought it was a good deal but realized it was a great deal when he heard me actually play it. He didn’t know you could do that. I was planning on having lunch in the mall but asked if the café was open and could I eat in there. At the time there was no one in there and when I’ve been there before it was packed, so I wasn’t sure it was open. They said sure and treated me really special. I came alone (sans doll or grandkids) and so I wouldn’t have to eat alone they told me I could pick out one of the dolls waiting to have lunch with someone. I did and they brought her to my table complete with chair, placemat, cup and plate. They didn’t act like I needed a lobotomy because I was having lunch with a doll. Seemed normal to them. I had a salad. The food was amazing. Afterward I ordered a dessert for my lunch companion and I to split. She said she didn’t really want hers, she was watching her weight, so I ate hers too. I’ve given up on the weight thing. It was a truly fun day.
Charlotte, your Babyland adventure sounds fantastic. What a great opportunity for you and an enjoyable day. Can’t wait to hear other stories.
Barbara, I also LOVE going to the AG store we have at Alderwood Mall (just north of Seattle a bit)–only about 10 minutes from my house! If that isn’t temptation….!
But the first time at an AG store was the one in Chicago, when it was the Only one!! It was May (our anniversary month), and on our trip my husband kept reminding me, “now if we’re somewhere and you see something you want for our anniversary, just say so.” Finally, he said, “You’re going to wait until we go the American Girl store, aren’t you?!” Smart Man….
And that is how I got Felicity!! (and quite a few other things! LOL We had to have the box shipped, as there wasn’t room in our car!)
I love this story. How perceptive our men are at times. Lucky for us or I’d still have only my two rescue dolls from the garage sale and antique shop. They are what got me started on doll collecting.
That sounds like such a wonderful day and experience. I’ve never been to an AG store. Must be a lovely day.
Dear Jeanne, my heartfelt prayers are with you and your family. I wish for tender blessing for your mother.
Dear Charlotte, what a wonderful question. I have so much fun with my girls that it is hard to pick a “most” fun time. I had to really think about this. I am not sure this is my most fun time but I do have a funny story.
In 2017, I got an Iplehouse (BID – Baby Iplehouse Doll) named Elin but renamed Elyse. The BIDs are the same size as the 10 inch Boneka Dolls. Iplehouse Dolls are ball jointed with change-able glass eyes.
At that time I belonged to an Iplehouse Doll Club through Yahoo. Yahoo has since dropped its club support and clubs have gone elsewhere or disbanded. In any case, I waited for a few months for my doll to arrive. I had ordered a factory “face-up” for her. The alternative would have been for her to come unpainted and for me to find an artist to paint her face.
I didn’t want to be “alone” when she arrived; I wanted to share the excitement. I arranged to call the President of the club so she could be on the phone with me when Elyse arrived. Well, she arrived and I called.
I gently opened the shipping box and then her storage box. She was wrapped nicely all her arms and legs were wrapped. Her head was cradled so it would shift in shipping. As I slowly removed her from her bindings and took her from the box, the top of her head fell off. I screamed!
The President was alarmed and asked what happened. I told her. She said not to worry that the top of her head is supposed to come off so I could change her eyes if I wanted. I thought, “yuck, I am never going to do that.”
In any case, I got her head back together and her wig on. The wigs are not attached. She looked adorable.
We both needed to rest after that ordeal.
I did end up changing her eyes but I went to a dolly friend’s house for support when I did that. I am not good with operations (chuckle).
Hi Dorothy,
I’m not familiar with That doll … do you have pictures?
Dear Kathie, hello. I do. I will email one to you.
It is sad about what’s happened with Yahoo. There used to be a Heartstring Doll group on there and when they changed everything so many of the wonderful pictures, etc., that were posted were gone. There’s never been another group formed because Jo of Jo’s Doll Shoppe was always sharing with us and had contests and things and now she can no longer do that due to her illness.
I didn’t have the head fall off my Meadow doll, but when I opened her head to insert her eyes I had trouble getting it back on. It’s kind of a scary process.
Dear Barbara, it is scary taking dolls apart. It seems unnatural for some reason (laugh).
I wanted to change Elyse’s eyes to a different color but I have not had the courage to do it. She told me that her eyes are just fine the way they are and I am relieved.
Sometimes our dolly children can be so sweet. Maybe that’s most of the time – unless they’re vying for a new addition to their wardrobes. I tell them patience Patience. They remind me none of them are named Patience.
Dear Barbara, that’s so funny.
I have one “daughter” who thinks she’s a princess and the other who thinks she’s a duchess. It is driving me to drink, only tea of course (laugh).
Oh, I love that story, Dorothy!! Thanks for sharing!
I think I would have passed out if the head of my newly arrived doll flew off and went flying. My heart would have stopped for a minute or more.
It is sad what Yahoo has done with the groups. It was a wonderful way to connect with people that had the same passions as you. I had a few over the years and of course there were time when you were ready kill someone with personality conflicts but for the most part they were great. Lots of wonderful memories. I think they changed it so much due to Facebook and them having groups. I’ll have no part of Facebook at all.
Oh Jeanne,
I hope your Mom isn’t suffering and will soon join your dad and not have to suffer the results of a seriousness stroke. I remember seeing my dad struggle so hard. There are some things worse than death. Bless her heart. She will probably hear you so you and your family can tell her sweet thoughts. Glad you have your siblings for support and share
Difficult decisions (((Hugs)))
Charlotte I loved reading your Cabbage Patch story! What an amazing experience in the height of their popularity! You will have to post a picture of her . The Christmas and year they were so popular and hard to get I made almost 400. I was working at the village drug store and sold them there as “Kathie Patch” A friend stuffed the bodies and I sculpted the faces and made the wigs and clothes. Things were a bit tight that year and it made a nice Christmas for our 4 kids.
Jeanne.. my heart is very sad for your family..prayers for strength and comfort to get you through these next phase of your lives. I know you mom will be welcomed by many friends and family members in Heaven 🙏❤️
The Gene Marshall and Mary Hoyer dolls got me started back in to dolls and sewing for them.. Gene and Cissy were my high fashion divas and the Hoyers paved the way to my love of child dolls.💕
I have Gene Marshall and several Mary Hoyer dolls, too! Love them all.
Jeanne, may the Lord hold you close as you, your mom and family walk this road.
The most fun I’ve had with my dolls is putting on “Time Travel” parties with my friend and our seven granddaughters. They were with in four years of each other and got a historical American Girl doll for their sixth birthday. We asked “What was it like for girls in Pioneer, colonial, 1850’s, Victorian, Great-grandma’s (1930), Grandma’s (1950’s) and Mom’s (1970’s-80’s) time?” Both girls and dolls got hats of the time period to wear. We ate food, played games, did crafts, and set the dolls up in scenes to play, all from the time period we were highlighting. Guess who had the most fun! Two teachers on summer vacation!
I’ve been trying to think of a fun doll activity to share, but my dolls don’t get out much. They are pretty much homebodies. I do have fun setting up scenes for photos though. I have had some exciting moments when one of the dollies decided to take a header off the deck and fortunately, be caught on the skirt by a blackberry bush. Another fell and lost half of his head. Wigs also manage to blow off, and I can’t count the times, I’ve had to pick stickers off outfits and an occasional bug before the dollies return inside. I think that latest photo with Sylvia Scarlet and her tricycle about did me in. I couldn’t get her to sit on it, and getting her to even stand near it was difficult. Definitely frustrating for me and I’m sure for her too. But, it’s worth it most of the time when I see the photos. 🙂
Joy, Quake Wax may help you to keep your sanity when trying to get the dolls to stand up and stay put. It does come off cleanly and is what museums use to secure artworks like ceramics, etc. It would work on the wooden deck as well for the exciting things your dolls do. EBay or Google Search will find it so you can compare prices.
Susette
Perfect suggestion. I use to have a doll house and one tiny bump could send china and lamps flying. Plus a curious cat that though it was a nice place to hang out.
I use this all the time. The container last forever, I think I’ve had mine 25 years as you only need a small dab depending on what you need to hold down.
Joy you should check it out and it’s not very expensive. I also purchased a tin of wax in a china/gift shoppe that works equally as well but I forget the name.
Thanks for the vote of confidence. Another endorsement helps. Do you live I California by any chance?
Susette
No, I live in Cape May, NJ.
I have something like this. It’s not called Quake Wax but it is what museums use. I haven’t used it yet though because all my scenes worked well with other methods. I do have some plans for scenes where I will absolutely need it.
Take your time with your family. Do not worry about us.
Dear Jeanne, I will be praying for your mother and your family. May the Lord give you all His peace. Love, Laura
Jeanne
So sorry to hear about your mother. Hope she is comfortable and not in pain. Glad that you are your siblings are there with here. She knows your are there just by your voices and scent. Stay strong and I will keep your mother, you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
I have tons of memories mostly with my sister and our dolls but one of my favorites is with my granddaughter. She loves baby dolls even at age 21. At my house she had everything you could possible need for baby dolls. 8 baby girls and one special boy. She was about the age when girls stop playing with them and on a overnight visit asked could she bring out all her doll stuff and play the entire weekend. Of course, I said yes and out everything came. There was barely a space to walk in the foyer, living room or dining room. She had rooms set up, nursery, feeding stations, you name it. The next morning she asked if I would play with her and “the kids” so I did. Her idea for the day was for me to the a nurse/judge and she was running an adoption center. We had more fun that day than I can ever remember. All the babies got “faux” parents, names, birth dates, dressed, a going home bag and best of all were birth and adoption papers signed by yours truly. We were just talking about it the other day, as she is now 21 and I am downsizing in hopes of moving. She was shocked that I told her the folder of papers (legal of course), the baby name plates, bracelets and everything else were in a folder in her closet. I swear she wanted to pull that stuff all out and play again.
Love this story!
Dear Sandra, I echo Carolyn. What a great story! I think we all wish our children and grandchildren would love dolls the way we do.
What a charming story. Made my day. 🙂
What a wonderful memory, Sandra. You are truly blessed.
My son was here today and I took advantage of his height by having him put my doll boxes up on the top shelf of the guest room closet. As he was putting them up I was lamenting that I didn’t think I would have anyone to hand my dolls down to. I could live long enough for my grandkids to have children and maybe one of them might want them, but right now my granddaughter doesn’t seem to be an option for sure. I bought her a WW Willa and somehow she managed to break off one of her legs. She said the dog did it. As soon as I get Willa fixed I’m going to see if maybe Jaiden will let her come to live with me for awhile. After being stuck in a toy box with a missing leg, I’m sure she could use some TLC and maybe a new outfit or two.
What a wonderful story, Sandra! You are so fortunate to have your granddaughter nearby for play time! Mine is 2000 miles away, and is now 12-1/2. However, she has always loved dolls so at least I’ve been able to send them to her for birthdays and Christmas. I should see if she still plays with them (I still did, somewhat, at that age, at least changing their clothes occasionally and sewing for them). I will most likely be seeing her in May when I go back for her brother, our grandson’s h.s. graduation (how can he be that old already?!). We also have three other grandsons, but they live out here–and aren’t the least bit interested in dolls! LOL
Love that story, Sandra. One of my favorite quote is “We don’t stop playing because we grow old. We grow old because we stop playing.
Just saw you said you live in Cape May. We went there on the way back to Ohio after going to Williamburg, VA and Maryland to see the Barbara Fritchie house. We went through the Angel of the Sea ( I love that name ). and The Queen Victoria. Both owners let us tour even though we were just passing through
Prayers for you, your mom, and your family as you go through this trying time in your life. Unfortunately, it is one part of life that many of us have to face. Treasure the memories that you have…❤
I’m so sorry about your mom, Jeanne. I will be praying for all of you. I know it’s hard.
I am so very sorry, Jeanne. Sending love, hugs and wishes for you and your family to find comfort at this time.
Oh nooo… I’m so sorry Jeanne. Such very sad news. I’ll keep your sweet Mama in prayer.
Jeanne I am sorry to hear about your Mom. You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers. Hold fast to the Lord and rely on him in this trying time. Carole
I am so very sorry to hear about your Mom. I’m sending prayers for your whole family.
I’m still praying for you all. I hope you are getting a bit of smiling time with your sisters, and brother too. May you all be blessed in many ways during this very hard time, Jeanne. With lots of love and lots of hugs, Ali
February 7
Early this morning my mom left her earthly life for her eternal life. Blessed be the name of Regina Adelia Boese.
So sorry to hear of the death of your mother. My thoughts are with you and family.
I’m so sorry for your loss, Jillaurellia. May God comfort you during this difficult time. It seems we never have our parents with us quite long enough! (Lost my folks in 2005 and 2007.)
Jillaurellia
So sorry to hear about the loss of your mother. It is never easy losing a parent.
Blessings, Sandra
Jill …. I’m so sorry to read you lost your mother, may God comfort you anad your family at this sad time.
Peace to you, Jillaurellia. Remember all the wonderful memories of your precious mother, and hold them dear.
Dear Jillaurellia, Blessings to you. May the Lord grant you peace and comfort. and the joy of happy memories.
I’m so sorry, but Jeanne’s mother died yesterday, February 7, 2020.
May she rest in peace knowing how much her family loved her. My thoughts are with you Jeanne.
Dear Jeanne, I’m sorry for the loss of your mom. It’s heartbreaking to lose your mother, no matter the circumstances. Stay close to our Lord for peace and comfort, and know we are all here for you. Through it all, she knew she was deeply loved, and by her whole family! She’s at home now, and at peace, with Our Lord. Lean on Him when you need to and keep the good memories of her close to your heart. Much love and big Hugs and Many Blessings to you, and your whole family, Ali
P.S. Thanks Joy, for letting us know.
I am so sorry, Jeanne that your dear mother left her earthly life, too. Even though we haven’t met, I think our mothers are discussing their grown daughters love of dolls. My mom taught me to sew and it was one of the best gifts she gave me.
On my previous post, I went back to Jillaurellia, my internet name. Sometimes my keyboard does it automatically and I didn’t catch it. I am Julia again.
Dear Julia, I am sorry for your loss. A loving mother is one of the most wonderful gifts one can receive. Take comfort in remembering the joy you shared with your Mother.
Dear Julia, I am so sorry for the loss of your mother. I lost my mother back in February of 2007 and miss her still. My prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Peace and love, Jeanne, and know that we are with you in spirit and love. Your dear Mama is now with your father and suffering no more.
Prayers and hugs.
Dear Jeanne, I am asking for the most tender blessings for you and your family at the loss of your Mother. May you find comfort in the memories of the love you shared.
Dear Jeanne and Jillaurellia / Julia
Prayers for peace and comfort to you both over the loss of your wonderful moms. My sweet Mom is 91 and although she has been quite ill these past several months, I treasure our time together. God Bless ~
Dear Jeanne, Peace and blessings to you on the loss of your dear mom. May you find comfort and joy in the memories and may the Lord hold you close. So wonderful you have siblings to lean on. Prayers and love.
Dear Jeanne,
I am so sad to hear that your sweet mother has passed. The loss of a parent, no matter how short or long they were on this earth is never easy. I remember being so angry that my father died at age 56 but came to realize that no matter how badly I wanted him to live he was no without pain and suffering. Peace to you and your family during this difficult time. I will light a candle in her memory for you today. Sending prayers and love.
Blessings,
Sandra
Dear Julia! Blessings to you, too, on the passing of your mom. She will live in you always. May you find comfort and peace through the sadness and hold those great memories of her close to your heart. Love and gentle hugs, Ali.
I am so very sorry for the loss of your mother, Jeanne. May her sweet, sweet soul rest in light. I hope and your family can find peace and comfort as you begin the task of learning how to move on without her in your life. *hugs* Melody
Dear Jeanne,
I’m not sure what made me check in with the blog tonight but I’m very glad I did. I am so sorry for the loss of your mother. As you said in your initial post to us, it was inevitable, but that in no way makes it any easier. I will be praying for you and your family that you find peace in this difficult time.
Dear Jeanne,
I’m so sorry to hear about the loss of your dear mother. Thank you for sharing her with all of us over the years. I think we all feel like we know her just a little bit! Praying for you and your whole family as you go thru this time of grief. Although we, as Christians, can rejoice that another believer is with the Lord, it is still sad for those of us left here on earth. Peace to her memory, and prayers and hugs for you.
I, too, am sorry for the loss of your dear mother but realize she is at peace now. Your family can rest knowing you have all done everything possible for her in her hours and days of need. Thank you for including us in your circle of friends who mourn with you.
Dear Jeanne,
My heart goes out to you and your dear family on the passing of your sweet Mama. May God comfort you with fond memories during this hard time. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Hugs
Ingrid B
Jeanne,
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Jeanne,
I am praying for you and your family as you grieve for your dear Mother. May the memories of her give you comfort.
I am so sorry to hear of your mother’s passing. God bless you at this difficult time.