FALL 09 NEWSLETTER & Past Newsletters

FALL 09 NEWSLETTER &
Past Newsletters

FALL/WINTER Newsletter 09

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SUMMER 2009

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Winter 2009

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FALL 2008

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SPRING AND SUMMER 2008

Please click on this PDF file to view the Spring and Summer '08 Newsletter
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Please click on the link below to view the Winter 2008 newsletter-

The Winter 2008
The Stitch 'n Times
January/February/March/April
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Past Newsletters appear below...

FALL NEWSLETTER

September/October/November/December

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Stitch �n Times�
May/June/July/August 2007
Project Linus �North & Central Chicagoland� Chapter Newsletter

PROJECT LINUS Winter Newsletter 2007
January/February/March/April
The �North & Central Chicagoland� Chapter
Project Linus is a non-profit 501 (c) (3) 100% volunteer organization
1230 Thornapple Lane, Northbrook, 60062
linda-847.498.6074 & judi-847.498.3987 Vol. 13
We had a wonderful 10 year anniversary celebration on September 9th. Special surprises included a live performance by the amazingly talented singer and dancer, Pam Peterson. Pam artfully put into musical lyrics what we have known all along��Thank Heaven for Blanketeers, you give the gift of good cheer and lighten children�s fears, thank heaven for YOU Blanketeers!�
We count our blessings as the continued success of the North & Central Chicagoland Project Linus chapter lies with the hard work and dedication of our remarkable army of volunteers. We are �busting our buttons� with pride over the blankets donated by this chapter, totaling well over 31,000.
On behalf of the children we serve, we thank you very much for keeping the Project Linus mission so close to your heart.
We wish you a warm and crafty winter season! �Happy 2007! linda & judi

Name the PL Newsletter contest!
�Regard your good name as the richest jewel you can possibly be possessed of�The way to gain a good reputation is to endeavor to be what you desire to appear.� Socrates
What�s in a name? Can anyone deny just how important a name can be? Will any of us ever really get used to the loss of the beloved Marshall Fields name?
With this in mind, we thought it would be fun to have a contest to name our newsletter. Let your imagination be your guide and send your suggestions to Linuschicago@aol.com or mail them to 1230 Thornapple Lane, Northbrook, Il. 60062. Submissions should be made by April 15th. The winner will be announced in the Spring/Summer Newsletter and a special prize of a year subscription to Piecework Magazine will be awarded to the lucky winner. (Piecework is a delightful magazine full of needlework ideas of all sorts as well as intelligent and thoughtful articles on the history of needlework)

What do you need?
We hear this so often, please keep these few things in mind�
1) Think of a child you love and cherish and make a blanket that you know that child would love to receive.
2) Soft, cuddly and washable and dryable fabric--cotton and flannel are perfect for quilts and acrylic yarn for knitted and crocheted blankets.
3) No Wool or drapery fabric.
4) Think child friendly patterns and colors. Remember that the blankets brighten up the sterile hospital environment and can cheer up and entertain a child who is confined to a hospital bed!
5) All sizes are needed. We donate from newborn to 18 years old.
6) If the blanket has been exposed to a pet, please launder before donation and NO Smoking around blankets.
7) Place donation in clear or white plastic bag, include name and address so that we may acknowledge your donation.

Calendar of Upcoming Events
Blanket Bees are always held on Saturday.
Place: Northbrook United Methodist Church (Western Ave and Cherry Lane)
Time: 9:30 am-2:30 pm
Please Bring a Box Lunch-
Beverages, snacks and sweets are provided
*For reservations please call-
Judi at 847.498.3987 or Linda at 847. 498.6074
January 20-Blanket Bee*
February 17th-Janome Make a Blanket Day-participating dealer- The Sewing Source, Libertyville 847.549.1814-donate a blanket and receive a raffle ticket for a Janome sewing machine!
March 17-Blanket Bee*
April 15,SUNDAY-1:30-5:30-Blanket Making Day-hosted by Temple Jeremiah-937 Happ Road, Northfield, IL Bring a project to work on or 1-1/2 yards of fleece to make a no-sew blanket. Blankets may also be dropped off at this time.
MAY-NO MEETING-Summer vacation
July 21-Blanket Bee*
September 15-Appreciation Tea

As a result of our rapid growth, we ask you to please consider one of the following committee positions (In addition, several times a year we will meet for a general committee meeting at the Northbrook Public Library).
1) Muslin Exchange Chair- This position involves coordinating volunteers who are willing to pick up and drop off muslin from Judi in Northbrook. Judi distributes muslin squares to children after her Kids Helping Kids program. In exchange, she receives uncut muslin for the squares. This muslin must be washed, ironed and cut into 8� squares.
3) Kids Helping Kids Assistant. This position will be responsible for helping with KHK presentations with school children, scouting troops and other service organizations on an occasional basis.
2) Hospitality Chair-This position involves storing the �kitchen box�, keeping it stocked with paper goods and purchasing items when needed. It also includes assembling the goodie bags for the Appreciation Tea in September. All costs will be reimbursed.
3) Mass Mailing Chair-This position involves taking responsibility for the non-profit newsletter mailing three times a year. Specific duties include picking up printed newsletters from Office Max, coordinating volunteers to fold, stamp and sort by zip code and drop off at the Northbrook Post Office
"Life is ours to be spent, not to be saved." D.H. Lawrence

The story of Tinkerbell, (aka Tomi�s Featherweight 221K7) a perfect name for a little sprite that spreads goodness wherever she goes!!
It is easy to see why Tomi Russell has been such a strong supporter of our little charity over the years. It appears the apple does not fall far from the tree where kindness and generosity are concerned!
Knowing that Tomi is a passionate quilter, her father decided that she should have a Featherweight sewing machine--the rare and sought after prized possession of avid quilters. Her dad exclaimed. �You should have a Featherweight and I'm going to find one for you!"
Tomi told us the following story of the little machine that she did not really think she wanted�
�My Dad purchased Tinkerbell at a flea market near Pineallas Park, Florida.�
At the time, Tomi didn't really want a Featherweight but if she was going to get one, she wanted it to be white. She convinced her skeptical dad that white Featherweights really did exist by showing him postings on Ebay.
After searching for about 2 years he found the perfect machine, albeit in need of some tender loving care.
Tomi explained, �Tinkerbell came home from the flea market without her bobbin case, presser foot, user's manual or any accessories. The green plastic handle was missing from her carrying case and she smelled a little musty. Like all of the white Singer Featherweight's, Tinkerbell is known as a model 221K7 and was made in Kilbowie, Scotland. Based on her serial #, I've learned that her birthday is sometime between May 1969 and April 1970.�
Doing research on the internet lead Tomi to join two great email list communities and started an addiction to Ebay.
�Tomi added with a wink, �I've learned a lot in the 6 months I've had Tinkerbell and I think she's inspired several of my �quilty� friends to buy Featherweights of their own.� No doubt Tinkerbell helps Tomi spread goodness wherever she goes. She regularly attends guild meetings and PL blanket making days, not to mention aiding in the completion of small gift items for friends and is a help in keeping Tomi in stitches on trips to Ohio and Iowa!
To learn more about the history and capabilities of these fascinating little machines, check the website- http://www.singer-featherweight.com/ and the book "Featherweight 221: The Perfect Portable" by Nancy Johnson-Srebro

TEAM WORK...
Many of us have fond memories of our moms when we are working on PL blankets, but these lucky ladies attend the bees as mother-daughter teams- Pictured-Nancy & Donna Clark & Shauna Straub Bunny Stoops & Amanda & Lily Steele Amy Flammang and Judy Neubauer Trudy Handzel and Ruth Perzentka
Military Family Comfort
The children of 3 fallen soldiers (serving in Iraq) received blankets from our chapter in the last two months.

At the Machine�

From Continuing Fitness�A Shoulder Roll to keep you fit during long hours of blanket making! Maintain an upright posture and sit at the front of the chair. With your arms hanging straight down at your sides, pull your shoulders up toward your ears and roll your shoulders back slowly in a circular motion. Roll your shoulders for 10 to 15 repetitions in one direction before reversing direction for an additional 10 to 15 repetitions.

Remember these???

Here are a couple of very old rhymes that were used to teach knitting!
How to Knit How to Purl
In through the front door Under the fence
Around the back Catch the sheep
Out through the window Back we come
And off jumps jack. Off we leap

Save Some $$$ on Your Online Yarn
Check out these discount web sites
eBay: Yarn Elann.com GotYarn.com OneFineYarn.com Smileysyarns.com YarnXpress.com

Friends

If nobody smiled and nobody cared and nobody helped us along, If every moment looked after itself and good things always went to the strong; If nobody cared just a little about you and nobody cared about me, and we stood alone, in the battle of life, What a dreary old world this would be. Life is sweet, just because of friends we have made and the things which in common we share. We want to live on, not because of ourselves, but because of the people who care. It is doing and giving for somebody else on which all of life's splendor depends. The joy of this world, when you've summed it all up, is found in the making of friends.

Please remember that blanket donations must be donated through our chapter. It is corporate policy that WE check, inspect, label and distribute the blankets.

Announcing the Skip-Stitch Blade!

Crocheters: This is the fastest, easiest way to whip out a blanket! Order one of these blades (not available anywhere else) and you can crochet an edge around a piece of fleece in an hour. Ordering details are at the end of this article. Easy Crocheted Edge Fleece Blanket
1) Cut selvages from fleece edges.
2) Position ruler lengthwise �� from edge of fleece.
3) Using a 45mm rotary cutter equipped with the Skip-Stitch blade, run cutter along edge of ruler with enough pressure to perforate the fleece.
IMPORTANT � Run blade over each area only once. A second cutting will result in an unusable edge.
1) Mark last perforation with a pin. Reposition ruler to continue cutting. Place a blade tooth in the last perforation and continue cutting to end of the side. Repeat for each side of your project.
2) Crochet the *Foundation Pattern around your project turning the edge under as you go. This alone makes an attractive finish or, if desired, you may then add the edging pattern of your choice. Trimming a small triangle from each corner before beginning to crochet keeps the underside of the corner neater. *Foundation Pattern: With right side of fleece facing you, single crochet in any hole but corner hole, ch 1, single crochet in next hole, ch 1. Continue around blanket, working 3 sc in corner holes. Turn fleece edge under as you go
Finishing Pattern:
1) From the front side of your project, slip-stitch in a back loop of a stitch on the foundation pattern.
2) Skip a loop and work 3 dc in the next loop.
3) Skip a loop and slip-stitch in the next loop.
4) Repeat steps 2 and 3 until you reach the second hole from the corner. Continue the same pattern without skipping any loops until you reach the second hole on the other side of the corner.
5) Continue skipping loops as before until you reach the second hole from the next corner.
NOTE � As you finish a round you will probably have to adjust your stitches to make the final joining of the pattern to blend in.
Ordering information: The price of the rotary blade is $11.00 (includes shipping). Send your check to: Joyce Middlebrooks, 1534 Flat Rock Road, Covington, GA 30014 or email her at: skipstitch@alltel.net If you prefer to order through Project Linus, please call Linda at 847.498-6074 or email at Linuschicago@aol.com.

LETTERS

A Special Thank you Note�
Our 15 month old son had surgery very early today. As parents we were nervous (to be expected), even when it�s a simple procedure. We want to thank you so very much for the blanket that the nurse brought in for him before his surgery. It was filled with bright cheery colors and so soft and perfect in size! He took his "newly adopted" blankie with him and when he was returned to us quickly he snuggled with it.
Our son is home doing fine and he is resting on the sofa with his blanket. He seems to have really become attached to it already!! Thanking you we are!! Please help me get this thank you to those who take the time to make these for the precious little ones. God Bless you all!
(Dear Linda, I was so glad to know that you received my letter of appreciation. Yes, of course you have my permission to print my letter in your winter newsletter. Your organization is very important, and the people who pour their hearts into these blankets should know how wonderful they are. The world is a better, brighter place because of the Linus Project. Thank you again. Wendy S.)
 From a grateful young woman�
A Stitch of Love
Service above self can be many different things. It could be saving a third world country from starvation, giving water to the homeless, or trying to stop pollution, but what about putting smiles on kids� faces? Isn�t that supposed to be a main goal, especially on the faces of those in the hospital? They may have cancer or have had major surgery. Some kids have Cystic Fibrosis. Whatever the disease, kids need to smile.
I have Cystic Fibrosis, which affects my lungs and digestive system. I can�t digest food, and my lungs are filled with mucus. I�m usually in the hospital once or twice each year, but unfortunately, this year it was three times, twice in two-and-a-half weeks. Over vacation I was admitted to the hospital during the night because of a bad fever and horrible chills which could�ve been caused by an infection in my central line. My mom and I hadn�t gotten a wink of sleep because residents kept coming in. As you can imagine, we were extremely tired! A few friends came, but the rest of the day, I dozed on and off. Later, the Child Life employee, Tracey, came in and showed me what a port would be like if I had to get one, and I started crying. The whole day had been disastrous. First, I had to come in during vacation. Then those chills, which still scare me-- Now learning I might get a port put in! This is just too much!
�Emily, you probably won�t have to get it. Dr. McWilliams just wants to keep our options open,� my mom spoke.
�You�re a dancer, right?� Tracey questioned.
�Yes.�
�I�ve got just the thing for you.�
Within minutes Tracey was back with a beautiful pink ballerina blanket. As we unrolled it, my mom and I saw a poem. When I read it, I started crying, but they were good tears; tears of joy. I couldn�t believe someone would do that for me. That blanket made my day.
I would love to be able to make some blankets to donate to the hospital to help other children in difficult situations. Many of my friends know how to make the blankets, so I�m going to start making plans for a party where we could make them. These blankets would mean a lot to kids and would make their day. If people would just see the look on kids� faces when they get something as special as a blanket, there would be a different perspective on what people do for kids and teens in need of help.
Maybe giving blankets to children isn�t saving a third world country. Sure, it�s not stopping pollution, either. What it is, though, gives children a glimmer of hope of being out of the hospital, or at least making their room brighter than just white. Patients should smile, as Tracey made me, even if they are in the worst place to spend vacation! Emily

Dear Project Linus,
I just wanted to take this time to thank you for the quilts your organization donated to American Indian Health Service of Chicago, Inc. and apologize for not getting back to you sooner. I hadn't realized that all the quilts were handmade-what a thoughtful and caring project. It's nice to know there are people who care for those less fortunate or in need. I know the blankets will be greatly appreciated by the infants/children who receive them and on behalf of them, again I thank you. Thank you again, Susan L. Zick, RN

Haiku Contest
Join the fun and write a Haiku!
Subject-Needle Arts�like quilting, knitting, sewing, crocheting, or how about Blanketeering?
Five, Seven, Five�
Just give it a try/Submit Haiku�s to Linda/A prize will be by! Linuschicago@aol.com or mail to 1230 Thornapple, Northbrook, IL 60062

DEAR BLANKETEER,
Each time we meet, you stitch and stitch, at home you stitch some more,
Creating lovely blanket hugs
For kids, both sad and sore.
I thank you for your caring hearts,
And hands so sure and strong.
God bless you for you loving work,
both now and all year long!
Non-Profit Bulk mailing reminder�To save money on our growing postage expenses, we have gone to a bulk mailing system. As a result, we are not allowed to publish shop �n share forms or Fons & Porter subscription forms. We ask you to please consider calling when you want to order these items or visit our chapter website where you can copy and paste the certificates. Also, we ask you to please notify us if you do not want to be included on our mailing list.
Thank you so much for understanding.
Please call Linda at 847.498.6074 or email at Linuschicago@aol.com

Donation Drop Off Sites

Please include name & address with donation and place in a clear or white plastic bag.

East Northbrook-Hancock Fabrics-565 Waukegan Rd 847.498.4111Downtown Northbrook-Starbucks Coffee Shop-1931 Cherry LaneWest Northbrook 637 Charlemagne (just east of Sanders off Dundee) Judi keeps a basket on her porch so donations can be left at any time.Arlington Heights--Arends Sewing Machine Co. 4204-B N. Arlington Heights Rd. Terramere Plaza SW corner of Arlington Heights Rd and Lake Cook Road 847 577 5900 Bannockburn Quilters� Station-2563 Waukegan Road 847.374.1280Barrington A Touch of AmishQuiltShop 130Applebee S t847.381.0900 Chicago-2 locations Knitting Workshop-- 2218 N. Lincoln Ave.773.929.5776 www.knittingworkshop.com Quiltology 2625 N Halsted St Chicago, IL 773.880.5994 Evanston Montoya Fiber Studio-2566 Prairie Avenue 847.869.1089Libertyville The Sewing Source�1429 W. Peterson Rd 847.549.1814 sewingsource.comNiles-(near Golf Mill shopping center) Jo-Ann Fabrics-8245 W. Golf Road 847.966.3023 Palatine Prints Charming Quilt Shop-1905 Plum Grove Rd (Euclid & Plum Grove Road) 847.202.5602 Printscharmingii.comVernon HillsJo-Ann Fabric Store-413 N. Milwaukee Road (847) 918-8345

We Count on You!
Total blankets donated to date by our chapter � over 31,000 blankets.
A donation to Project Linus is just a mouse click away� Make www.goodsearch.com your search engine then designate Project Linus as the charity that receives a donation each time you search with goodsearch.com and a donation will be made to Project Linus. The search engine is powered by Yahoo but it functions to support non-profit charities. Each time a search is made, a donation is made to your designated non-profit charity-Project Linus. A great way to support Project Linus it can also be suggested to all your friends and relatives. Thank you for considering this easy way to support the Project Linus mission!

PLEASE SAVE----
Honor or remember a friend with a PLTribute Card! With a donation of $5.00 or more a personalized card will be sent for you for any occasion that you would like. So much nicer than a greeting card and we do all the work!
The card is beautifully printed in script lettering on lovely vellum stock. It reads--Project Linus gratefully acknowledges a generous contribution
*Please check appropriate sentiment�
____In Honor Of
_____In Celebration Of
_____In Memory Of
_____Other
Name of recipient_________________________
Address_______________________________
City State zip____________________________
_____________________________________
Please make check payable to Project Linus.---Enclose with this form and mail to:
Linda Neuman,1230 Thornapple Lane,Northbrook, IL 60062
your name________________________ address__________________________ phone#___________________________
Take the time to knit a gauge swatch to insure that your project is on the right track.
Knitting swatches can be fun. The time you spend knitting up gauge swatches gives you a chance to get to know the yarn before you knit your project and you will learn a lot more about the yarn when you are focused on it as you knit the swatch than you will when you're focused on the pattern.

Hi Linda and Judi--
I just wanted to let you know that you should be receiving a donation of two fleece blankets. They were made with love by Ellen Feeney's first grade class at Greenbriar Elementary school in Northbrook. It was a project for their holiday party. Not only did the kids have a 'blast' learning how to make the blankets, but they also learned a little more about how to give of themselves. Thanks for all of your efforts!
Meg Franzen and Pam Mohrdieck

This note is from a volunteer who works with New Song, a bereavement group for children who have lost siblings and parents. The BLUG that she refers to is their nickname for "BLanket hUG". During dinner I announced that we had a special surprise for all the kids and that the hint was it was the "Mystery of the BLUG" about to be revealed.... I spread LOTS of BLUGS out on tables and brought each age group of kids into the room to make their selection beginning with the ever cool teens. They each found something they liked and we talked about feeling lonely and needing a hug when no one was around and how the BLUG could help that. I heard after group that they wrapped the BLUGS around them even on a hot night because they wanted to wanted to pull in all the good feeling that each brought -- and these are TEENS!!!! Then the 9-12 kids came in and I kicked the story up a little about comfort and caring. And then, the most interesting of all groups for BLUGS..the 5-8 year olds (most in this particular group are around 6). I met them outside the room and told them their new and special friend was lonely and waiting for them, that they had to tip toe in so as not to frighten them...and that they should pick the BLUG that spoke to their heart -- that they would 'know' which one wanted to go home with them. I really played it up. Well, they didn't need two invitations, they dove into the blankets trying them on until they found their exact and perfect one! One 6 year old child asked right at the get go (before he even saw them) if he could have two as his brother was only three and too little to come to New Song and he knew he would need a magical BLUG too. He made sure to pick something he thought he would like...a colorful bright red and blue blanket infused with love. Three of the kids took blugs to sibs at home who are too young to come to New Song. One was especially touching as he came up with his Mom after group and told me he needed another one for his little brother. So, we were looking them over and when I asked how old his brother was, he wasn't sure and then said "a baby". He selected a big red and blue lightweight blanket backed with a tiny baby print on the back and said his brother would like that one.... I asked his Mom how old the brother was and in fact, she is pregnant and the this boy has decided the unborn will be his brother. In post meeting, I learned the big significance is that his younger brother died at two so this is a new baby coming into the home...... How thoughtful of him at the tender age of 6.And last Thursday, Alicia, an 11 year old girl was closing, meaning her work at New Song was done. She has had her BLUG for about a year. Her mother shared that a family friend recently died and Alicia went to her room to get her BLUG to give to a grieving friend of the family saying "I don't need this anymore but I know it can help you feel better." Please pass on my deepest gratitude to all the ladies who work tirelessly to create these magical blankets for kids they will never meet. We tell each child that the blankets are magic because they have love woven into every stitch...the special love of generous people who love kids and want only the best for them. Thank you....deeply, thank you! Love, S The Corporate Angel�s Corner Meadows Starbucks-Downtown Northbrook Motorola-Tomi Russell Sunset Foods Mach Foundation-Marilyn Stewart Jewel Arends Sewing Machine Northbrook United Methodist Church Northbrook Court Mall Judi runs the successful KHK�s program, a wonderful community service opportunity that enables children to help other children. Since its inception five years ago, over 28,000 children have participated in decorating thousands of muslin squares and tying hundreds of fleece blankets, all bringing comfort to other children when they need it most. Kids Helping Kids presentation kits are available on request as well as packets of decorated muslin squares for those interested in assembling quilts. If you are interested in having Judi speak to your group or you would like to pick up a packet, please call her at 847.498.3987. "You know how they say we only use 10 percent of our brains? I think we only use 10 percent of our hearts." - Owen Wilson

The Book Shelf The Friday Night Knitting Club by Kathleen Jacobs Kathleen Jacobs� debut novel has been described as �Steel Magnolias meets The Jane Austen Book Club with Knitting!� It�s about a group of women who knit in a club above a delicatessen in New York. The craft of knitting enables each of the women to make transitions together. As they knit together, they bond to each other just as keenly. Knitter�s Almanac by Elizabeth Zimmerman Elizabeth Zimmermann's Knitter's Almanac is excellent! Not only does she take the inexperienced knitter through the basics, she challenges the experienced knitter to stretch their wings! Full of wonderful insight into this legend of the knitting world. You'll fall in love with her whimsey. She makes reading pattern directions engaging and funny!

Where Are the Blankets Distributed??? We are privileged to supply blankets to the following hospitals- Evanston, Children�s Memorial, Illinois Masonic, Lutheran General, Mt. Sinai, Northwest Community, Rush Presbyterian, St. Alexius, Hunter Women�s and Infants Hospital-Lake Forest, St. Anthony and the University of Chicago. Blankets are also given to�American Indian Health Center, A Safe Place, CEDA, Community Youth Network, Family Rescue, Hospice of the North Shore, , La Casa Lawrence Hall, Lydia Home, Maryville Home for homeless and abused children, Mercy Home, The N.W. Surgical Center, PADS, Rainbow House, Shelters Inc., WINGS, and several police departments.

The chapter website: www.orgsites.com/il/projectlinuschicago Check it out! Linda updates it regularly and the Blanketeer Bulletin Board has all the current events from our chapter. She would love to hear from you with items that you think would be of interest to the Blanketeers! Please call her at 847.498.6074. Bumper Sticker Fun I Love sewing and have plenty of material witnesses!

PROJECT LINUS FALL NEWSLETTER

September/October/November/December 2006
The �North & Central Chicagoland� Chapter
Project Linus is a non-profit 501 (c) (3) 100% volunteer organization ---Vol. 12
Our 10th Anniversary!
The Project Linus national conference was held in July in Bloomington, Illinois for the benefit of chapter coordinators from across the nation. We were not able to attend this year but we did participate by sharing much of what we do as a chapter. This involved sending our brochure, business cards, numerous fundraising ideas, pattern book, Kids Helping Kids packet and past newsletters to use as a resource for the coordinators from around the country.
During a recent telephone conversation with the corporate office, the national president applauded all of you and said �The North & Central Chicagoland chapter is the epitome of what we want from our chapters nationwide...we love you guys.�
The steady growth in the blanket totals each month continues to amaze us and have comforted more and more children in need with each passing year. Your dedication and boundless generosity have sustained the chapter and has been the key to the great success of the mission.
As we celebrate 10 years, we salute all of you and wish to extend a warm and welcoming invitation to join us in celebration of a job well done.
We have special surprises in store.
See you at the party on September 9th! linda & judi

Please Join Us!

For: The Project Linus
10th Anniversary Appreciation Tea & Luncheon
Date: Saturday, September 9
Time: 10 am -1 pm*
Place: Northbrook United Methodist Church
1190 Western Avenue
Please RSVP by September 4th�
Call Judi-847.498.3987 or Linda 847.498.6074-*If you can stay to label blankets in the afternoon, please let us know.
Thank you!

Well Connected...

Could Project Linus keep you healthy?
Consider this- There is little doubt that life has changed dramatically over the last fifty years. The down side to our modern day, fast paced, television watching and air conditioned lifestyle is social isolation. Happily, joining a group and becoming more socially conscious can help you live longer and enjoy life more! Rx for good health�take Project Linus every day and watch friendships blossom!
�No one has ever measured, even poets, how much a heart can hold.� Zelda Fitzgerald

Calendar of Upcoming Events
Blanket Bees are always held on Saturday.
September 9th-10 am-1 pm
10th Anniversary Tea and Lunch*
September 11, 12, 13-Jewel Shop n Share Days
November 18-Blanket Bee*
Note all blanket bees are held at�
Place: The Northbrook United Methodist Church (Western Avenue and Cherry Lane)
Time: 9:30 am-2:30 pm
�Please Bring a Box Lunch- Beverages, snacks and sweets are provided
---Reservations are necessary---
2007
January 20-Blanket Bee*
March 17-Blanket Bee*
May-To be announced
July 21-Blanket Bee*
September 15-Appreciation Tea
*For reservations please call-Judi at 847.498.3987 or Linda at 847. 498.6074
Weavettes!

A new idea, reminiscent of the toy pot holder looms of long ago �
Some adventuresome Blanketeers have recently started using Weavettes, to create small woven blocks that are then assembled into beautiful PL blankets.
The small handheld looms called Weavettes are easy to use and very portable. A Blanketeer described a lesson as very easy and addictive. Her instructor created a beautiful baby afghan crafted from different sizes of small woven blocks. She was able to make a sample block in class and decided to purchase a Weavette of her own. She said it travels well too and took it on a recent airline flight. A link to the website appears below.
http://www.weavettes.com/
A search online can also provide much additional information on handheld looms. The following site offers pdf files of old books (some from the 1930's), pattern included, as well providing a comprehensive study of features and brands available today.
http://www.eloomanation.com/projects.php

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner with Linus! We thank Dianne Schleeper, owner of Arends Sewing Machine Co., in Arlington Heights, for holding a blanket making event at her shop in July. Dianne encouraged her customers to drop by for quick quilt lessons, blanket making and Linus character embroidery, not to mention breakfast, lunch and dinner! A great time was had by all! We thank Dianne and her sales team for their continued support of the PL mission.

�A great friend is one who thinks you are a good egg, even though they know you are slightly cracked.�

A 30 year old Irish woman, who refers to herself as Yarn Monkey, was fed up with all of the hype over the summer World Cup soccer competition so she started a knitting blog on the internet to coincide with the matches. Knitters from around the world were invited to sign up to finish a project of their own by the end of the games. The knitting World Cup attracted one knitter who carries her knitting wherever she goes, finding time to knit even while caring for her five children. She joined Yarn Monkey and regularly �chats� at www.yarn-monkey.blogspot.com. This is a wonderful blog with terrific ideas and inspiration for all types of knitting. Yarn Monkey sums up knitting as �a very sensual experience, the touch of the yarn and the feel of the needles� there�s a great satisfaction to be derived from that.�
And from reading the blog! Next time you are looking for inspiration, check it out---It is great fun!

A Wonderful Achievement--2000 quilts donated!!!

A big thank you to our friends in Sun City!
Our Sun City Angels recently took the patriotic blanket challenge by offering to make quilts for the children of fallen soldiers from the Chicago area. We thank these remarkable women who always inspire us and touch us with their gentle ways.

At the Machine...

Working long hours at the sewing machine sometimes causes us to forget to move around. Take a tip from Jack LaLanne, the exercise guru. At 91, Jack exercises regularly and has great ideas for exercise from a sitting position�< 1) Quickly stand up and sit down 10 times, then do it again at a slow pace five more times. 2) Scoot down in your chair, hold the arms and pump your legs in front of you as if riding a bike.

Last chance to buy tickets for the Doll of Today, Bed, & Wardrobe Raffle!

Stefie is the best dressed doll in town. She has more outfits and blankets than we can count and a custom made garden bed that will guarantee sweet dreams!
The doll will be raffled at the appreciation tea in September! To order tickets, please call Linda-847.498.6074
Winner need not be present to win.

Every time a woman succeeds, she encourages other women. Madeleine Albright

Please remember that blanket donations must be donated through our chapter. It is corporate policy that WE check, inspect, label and distribute the blankets.

A partial letter (from a very lengthy letter) to PL from an agency that deals with abused and neglected children. The agency recently moved to a more desirable location with all new medical facilities.
"... Thank you and Project Linus for ...a recent donation of blankets .... I know over the years you have grown accustomed to making ... deliveries so I wanted to share a brief story about two young girls who recently visited us ....
"About three months ago we began providing medical exams and follow up medical care to children placed in foster care... Before this time, the children, many of them in foster care as a result of physical and sexual abuse, were visiting the local health department for their medical care.
"I am sure you can imagine the environment they found at the health department.... Needless to say, when it came time for their latest appointment, they were not too excited. ... This time, they went to the new facility.... When the caretaker called us later that afternoon, she told us that all the girls could do when they got back to the facility was brag about the new building and the handmade blankets they got to pick out.... Each of the other children at this particular foster care facility began clamoring that they wanted to go to the agency for their next exam. They came into foster care with the clothes on their back and a deep need to be loved and cared for. We did what we could to meet their needs, but Project Linus did for them what no one had ever done before, made something new just for them.
"It is not enough for us to have a warm facility with expert and professional staff. In order for us to truly meet our mission and vision for the community, we must have the support of ... groups like Project Linus. ..."

Dear Project Linus- Your organization provided my baby with a beautiful handmade pink crocheted blanket while she was sick at Evanston-Northwestern hospital. The blanket is so sweet. Thank you for your thoughtful gesture. I do not have talent to craft a blanket to return the favor. However, I was hoping this small donation could go to a good cause. Thank you again, Shelly G.

Non-Profit Bulk mailing reminder�To save money on our growing postage expenses, we have gone to a bulk mailing system. As a result, we are not allowed to publish shop �n share forms or include raffle tickets or Fons & Porter subscription forms. We ask you to please consider calling when you want to order these items or visit our chapter website where you can copy and paste the certificates. Thank you so much for understanding. Please call Linda at 847.498.6074 for copies.

�We must be the change we want to see in the world.� Gandhi
Grab the crochet hook!!!!
-Surgeons typically include a crochet hook as one of the primary instruments when performing arthroscopic surgery! -Children are taught the art of crocheting to increase their fine motor skills, aid in counting and instruction following, to bolster confidence, to introduce quiet time and to learn family tradition.

We Count on You!
Total blankets donated to date by our chapter � over 26,000 blankets. Grand totals will be revealed at the tea in September!

WISH LIST
1. We are currently in desperate need of people to sew on blanket labels. Volunteers must be able to pick up and drop off blankets in Northbrook about every 2-3 weeks.
2. Judi distributes muslin squares to children after her Kids Helping Kids program. In exchange, she receives uncut muslin for the squares. This muslin must be washed, ironed and cut into 8� squares. We are in need of volunteers who are willing to pick up and drop off muslin from Judi in Northbrook. Please call 847.498.3987 if you are able to help
PLEASE SAVE----
Honor or remember a friend with a PLTribute Card! With a $5.00 or more donation a personalized card will be sent for you. So much nicer than a greeting card and we do all the work!
The card is beautifully printed in script lettering on lovely vellum stock. It reads--Project Linus gratefully acknowledges a generous contribution
*Please check appropriate sentiment�
____In Honor Of _____In Celebration Of
_____In Memory Of _____Other
Name of recipient_________________________
Address________________________________
City State zip____________________________
_______________________________________
Please make check payable to Project Linus.---Enclose with this form and mail to:
Linda Neuman,1230 Thornapple Lane,Northbrook, IL 60062
your name________________________
address__________________________
phone#___________________________
-Take the Rail Fence Quilt Block Challenge for Linus!
Using child friendly cotton fabric, create 2- 5� Rail Fence quilt blocks. The blocks will be collected at the November 18th Blanket Bee and the quilt top will be assembled for display at the January 20th Blanket Bee. Be as creative as you like, just be sure to pre-wash your cottons and remember that your finished size is 5� (the blocks will measure 4-1/2� when sewn into the quilt top).
Good Luck and Happy Piecing! �Your life is much more important than you can imagine�it is your first treasure.� Maya Angelou
A note from a loyal Blanketeer�
�No need to send me a thank you.
I love doing this!
Shirley M.

Order or renew a subscription to a fantastic quilting source with Love of Quilting Magazine. Fons & Porter will make a donation to Project Linus with each subscription. Please call Linda at 847.498.6074 for details or email at Linuschicago@aol.com Thank you!

The Recipe Box!
These delicious cookies are as good as Girl Scout Thin Mints-courtesy of Marilyn Stewart!
Andes Mint Cookies

3/4 cup butter
1-1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
2 tbsp water
12 oz. semisweet chocolate chips 2 eggs
2-1/2 cups flour 1 -1/4 tsp baking soda
� tsp. salt 2 (approx. 4.5 oz.) boxes Andes mints, unwrapped and broken into 2 pieces.
Note: Cut the mint two-thirds and one-third, and use two-thirds of a mint on each cookie. Heat butter, sugar and water in saucepan until butter is melted. Remove from heat and add chocolate chips and stir until melted. Pour into large bowl and cool 10 minutes. Beat in eggs, then add flour, soda and salt and beat just until blended. Chill dough for an hour. Roll dough in 1" balls and place 2" apart on cookie sheets. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 9 - 12 minutes. Remove from oven and immediately place one large or 2 small Andes mint piece(s) on each cookie. After they melt, swirl each one with a knife (like spreading frosting on a cake). Remove cookies from cookie sheet and let them cool until mint pieces are solid.

--The Corporate Angel�s Corner--

Chowards Violet Gum
Bigelow Tea Company
Kashi Cereal Company
Sunset Foods Jewel
Arends Sewing Machine
The Northbrook United Methodist Church

On The Road With Judi & The Kids Helping Kids Program!
Judi continues to travel around the suburbs with her inspiring and heartwarming Kids Helping Kids presentation. She regularly speaks to school children in school, religious and scouting groups as well as adult knitting and quilting clubs.
KHK�s is a wonderful community service opportunity that enables children to help other children. Since its inception five years ago, over 27,000 children have participated in decorating thousands of muslin squares and tying hundreds of fleece blankets, all bringing comfort to other children when they need it most.
Kids Helping Kids presentation kits are also available on request as well as packets of decorated muslin squares for those interested in assembling quilts.
If you are interested in having Judi speak to your group or you would like to pick up a packet, please call her at 847.498.3987.

Curl up with a cup of tea and---
The Book Shelf
Circle of Quilters by Jennifer Chiaverini
This is the ninth and newest book in the Elm Creek quilt series. It explores how quilters feel about their craft and the lives their quilts touch!
Vogue Knitting-The Ultimate Knitting Book By Vogue Knitting magazine editors Described as the knitting bible, this book is a must have reference guide.
Meet Blanketeer and Cover Girl, Shirley Barry!
A former nurse, Shirley has been thoroughly enjoying making quilts for PL for many years. She began by making quilts for PL with her quilting club, The Cover Girls, but now finds time each day to make and donate 5-6 quilts a month, on her own. When not working part time at Prints Charming, Shirley can usually be found in her well stocked sewing studio(though with a smile and a wink she admits to storing fabric stashes in her second bathroom shower stall). She does not feel that a day is complete without working on her quilting. We call it art as Shirley often receives small donations of child friendly fabric from her customers and with her amazing talent with color and design, turns the random swatches into breathtaking quilts. We have tried to learn how she does it, but alas have found it to be simply remarkable talent and genius!
Thank you Shirley for your wonderful support and friendship!

Celebrity Knitters�Catherine Zeta Jones & Kate and Ashley Olson
The chapter website: www.orgsites.com/il/projectlinuschicago Check it out!
Linda updates it regularly and the Blanketeer Bulletin Board has all the current events from our chapter. She would love to hear from you with items that you think would be of interest to the Blanketeers! Please call her at 847.498.6074.

PROJECT LINUS Spring/Summer Summer Newsletter
May/June/July/August 2006

The �North & Central Chicagoland� Chapter
Project Linus is a non-profit 501 (c) (3) 100% volunteer organization

1230 Thornapple Lane, Northbrook, IL 60062
Linda 847.498.6074 & Judi 847.498.3987 Vol. 11

The Happiest People
Thanks to Project Linus, we have found it to be true that the happiest people on earth are those who give little thought to their own happiness and devote themselves to helping others. Indeed, happiness comes as a reward for their selfless efforts. And speaking of selfless efforts� We are in constant celebration of your achievements-numbering over 25,000 blankets and counting! This summer will be spent preparing to honor and celebrate the National Project Linus 10th anniversary! The party will be a special tribute to all North & Central Chicagoland volunteers who keep Project Linus so close to their hearts. What a great opportunity to be able to share this special day with all of you. Your energy and devotion are truly an inspiration.
We encourage you to attend our celebration on September 9th. So much happiness to celebrate! So much to do!
Happy trails this summer!! linda & judi

Most people are about as happy as they make up their minds to be. Abraham Lincoln

Sun City Blanketeers Lead the Way with Donations!

Charleen Kelly, the chairman of the Huntley, Sun City Blanketeers reported that they will soon be celebrating their 2000th blanket donation to PL! These amazing women meet every Thursday afternoon to create beautiful PL blankets (not to mention always attending our blanket making days with 10-12 people). They receive donations of fabric and yarn throughout the year and hold a fundraiser to help defray expenses. Cash donations are also made by the Huntley Breast Cancer Walk fundraisers. Charleen, Liss Kundich and Betty Casey guide and inspire the group and produce record blanket donations on their own. Judi and Linda have been privileged to sit in on a creative meeting with these remarkable women and are in awe of their combined talents. Like a finely tuned violin, each blanket making idea is carefully explored, resulting in a truly impressive, wonderful array of colorful quilts. We thank them so very much for the inspiration and for their commitment and resolve to the PL mission!
�This earthly world is our work room, our laboratory. This is where we figure out how to do it.� Barbara Callahan-American writer

Calendar of Upcoming Events
Blanket Bees are always held on Saturday.
May 27-Blanket Bee*
Note all blanket bees are held at�
Place: The Northbrook United Methodist Church (Western Avenue and Cherry Lane)
Time: 9:30 am-2:30 pm
�Please bring a box lunch- beverages, snacks and sweets provided.
-Reservations are necessary
July 15th-Blanket Bee*
September 9th-10 am-1 pm
10th Anniversary Tea and Lunch*
September 11, 12, 13-Jewel Shop n Share Days
November 18-Blanket Bee*
*For reservations please call-Judi at 847.498.3987 or Linda at 847.498.6074.

Mixed Bag Word Game

---Unscramble the following needle arts terms. When finished, unscramble the ‗ spaces to solve the clue below.
HTRECOC
‗ _ _ ‗ _ _ _
IATCRLQZUY
‗ _ _ _ ‗ _ _ _ _ ‗
ETKOTSNTECI
_ _ _ _ ‗ _ _ ‗ _ _ _
NHITCAEPN
_ ‗ _ _ _ _ _ _ ‗
ROYERANV
_ _ ‗ _ _ _ ‗ _
LQNISUMRUESA
_ ‗ ‗ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ ‗ _

What a Blanketeer never needs at the airport.
‗ ‗ ‗ ‗ ‗ ‗ ‗ ‗ ‗ ‗ ‗ ‗ ‗ Answers bottom of page 5.

National Make a Blanket Day 2006!

We thank Dianne Schleeper, owner of Arends Sewing Machine Co, in Arlington Heights for participating in the PL Janome Make a Blanket Day promotion in February. The raffle generated hundreds of blanket donations for our chapter this winter. Dianne has graciously donated machines for the last 4 years and is also a regular PL drop off site. She shared this bio of the happy Janome winner!
�Congratulations to Eileen Beckman, winner of a new Janome 3050 Sewing Machine in the Linus Blanket Project. Eileen resides in Grayslake, Il with her husband and two children. She is a Special Education Teacher at Buelah Park School in Zion, Il and a beginning sewer. She looks forward to learning more about sewing with her daughter and her new Janome 3050.�

Letterboxing.org

Thank you Frogger, Bell Lady, Flutterby, Howling Coyote, Tiptoe, donutz716, ampm&tm, Mrs. Doglvrs, Songbird, Ruby Tuesday, MoonBunny, TrailStompers, Katze21539, P.Granola, Ev, Akindofmagick, Flying J. & Garden Elf, Swallowdale, Boot Prints, and Springchick!

Karen Grage, a Deerfield resident and PL Blanketeer, gave an interesting lecture about Letterboxing at the March 25th blanket day. Karen participates in this unique hobby that began in Dartmoor, England and recently became popular in the U.S. Letterboxing is an outdoor activity where individuals around the country hide boxes (usually in forest preserves) and provide clues for others to find. Clues are posted on the web and usually have some sort of requirement like solving a clue or making a charitable donation. The goal being to find a hidden box with a rubber stamp inside and then stamp a personal journal (much like a passport stamp when visiting another country). An outgrowth of the hobby is postal letterboxing where participants exchange boxes by mail.
Participants are sometimes asked to actively contribute to a charitable organization in exchange for receiving a specially designed themed �box� and hand carved stamp. Karen decided to generate interest with postal letterboxers in making blankets for PL. She requested either a blanket be donated to a PL chapter or a donation of a granny square be sent to her to make blankets for our chapter. In exchange, Karen offered a Linus themed letterbox and stamp to each donor and the response was overwhelming.
Over 250 granny squares have been sent to Karen from all over the United States.
We would like to thank the participants by the nicknames they use when playing�called trail names(check the headline of this article).

A very special thank you to Karen (or is it jacks?) for this terrific idea.

Granny Square Blanket

This is one of the blankets that Karen created with the donated crochet squares. It is an amazing example of the various granny square patterns and interpretations by people from all over the U.S.

For healthier bones, choose tea over coffee. Caffeine may interfere with calcium absorption, and if you�re a daily coffee drinker, you can help protect your bones by switching to tea. Tea has less caffeine and more flavonoids and fluoride, compounds which help increase bone strength. Courtesy of Dr. Andrew Weil

At the Machine�
Ok, we admit it. We have a particular fascination with the idea of �I Spy� quilts. They are endless in creative possibility as well as being a challenging puzzle game for the children who receive them. The thrill is in the hunt for interesting fabrics, those cute and whimsical objects that children love, ie, doggies, kitties, toys, cartoon characters, monkeys, farm animals, candy, geometric shapes, sports team logos, athletic equipment, household objects, tools, cars, trucks, dolls�see what we mean? The possibilities are endless.
Tomi R. a loyal PL Blanketeer and master quilter recently shared an amazing example of the best �I Spy� quilt we have ever seen. She used the charm, hexagon pattern and it was magnificent.
Happily, you do not have to be a master quilter to produce an �I Spy" quilt. Any quilt pattern that you enjoy making will produce a great �I Spy�. Simply include the various fabrics in the quilt top and list them on the back of the quilt for identification.
Try it, you will be on the look out for fabric wherever you go-- Buy, swap, raid or persuade-- it is a healthy habit you won�t want to break! Happy sewing!

Relaxed Airline Security Rules� Traveling this summer? You are allowed to carry knitting needles, crochet hooks and small blunt tipped scissors on the airlines according to the National Transportation Security Administration.

A Simple Idea

A moving and insightful letter from Kathy Kihm, Chapter Assistant for Project Linus Cincinnati. "I would be willing to wager, that as a blanket maker receiving a compliment on a job well done, you may have responded: �Oh, it was so simple to make. I�m glad to have something to do with my time that benefits somebody.� I hear it often! As a charitable organization, Project Linus reaches out with blankets to comfort children in need.
As adults, we see blankets comforting children by offering a soft, warm, protective gift that they can wrap up in, cuddle with, or lie on or beneath. We recognize the gift of a blanket as an outward sign that someone cares about the recipient in his/her current situation. All of that is true, but we must look farther. Sometimes when I speak on behalf of Project Linus, I have the opportunity to speak to young children. On an elementary school visit, I asked a group of kids how a blanket can comfort a child.
From a child�s view, a blanket is so much more. A blanket can be cuddled, hugged, slept with, used as a tent, a Superhero cape, a tablecloth for tea parties, a long dress, a sleeping bag, a shawl, a turtle shell, a hiding spot, a cape for a king or queen. A blanket can be folded up and used as a pillow or wrapped around a secret treasure! The list went on and on! The kids shared their ideas with exuberance, smiles and happy eyes! No matter the situation or hardship, kids long to be kids, and it�s obvious that blankets can take them places far beyond the confines of a hospital room, shelter or difficult condition.
Blankets are wonderful things, and blanket makers are extraordinary people. If you have merged your time and talent, fabric or yarn into a blanket for a child, you have given them not only the gift of a blanket, but fuel for their imagination and a tremendous boost of joy!
And you thought a blanket was such a simple thing!
�Common sense is seeing things as they are and doing things as they ought to be.� Harriet Beecher Stowe

Donation drop off sites
Please include name and address with donation and place in a clear or white plastic bag.
NEW SITE--East Northbrook-Hancock Fabrics-
565 Waukegan Road 847.498.4111 Downtown Northbrook-
Starbucks Coffee Shop-1931 Cherry Lane
West Northbrook
637 Charlemagne (just east of Sanders off Dundee) Judi keeps a basket on her porch so donations can be left at any time.
Arlington Heights-2 locations--
Arends Sewing Machine Co. 4204-B N. Arlington Heights Rd. Terramere Plaza SW corner of Arlington Heights Rd and Lake Cook Road 847 577 5900
Jo-Ann Fabric Super Store-69 W. Rand 847.670-0061
Bannockburn
Quilters� Station-2563 Waukegan Road 847.374.1280 Barrington
A Touch of Amish Quilt Shop-130 Applebee Street 847.381.0900 Chicago
Knitting Workshop-- 2218 N. Lincoln Avenue 773.929.5776 www.knittingworkshop.com
Evanston
Montoya Fiber Studio-2566 Prairie Avenue 847.869.1089
Libertyville
The Sewing Source�1429 W. Peterson Road 847.549.1814 sewingsource.com
Morton Grove
Quilter�s Palette-6737 Dempster�Receive a free fat quarter with each donation! 847.663.8957 Quilterspaletteonline.com
Niles-(near Golf Mill shopping center) Jo-Ann Fabrics-8245 W. Golf Road 847.966.3023
Palatine
Prints Charming Quilt Shop-1905 Plum Grove Road (Euclid & Plum Grove Road) 847.202.5602 Printscharmingii.com Vernon Hills
Jo-Ann Fabric Super Store- 413 N. Milwaukee Road (847) 918-8345

Please remember that blanket donations must be donated through our chapter. It is corporate policy that WE check, inspect, label and distribute the blankets.
�A best friend is like a four leaf clover-- hard to find and lucky to have.� Unknown

Take a sewing break--Take a hike!

Take a sewing break--Take a hike! According to the American Hiking Society, a 30-to 60 minute walk, 3-4 times a week may help prevent heart disease and will help control weight gain. For example, if a 140 lb. woman walks 2.5 mph for 1 hour, she will burn 190 calories (a glazed donut or piece of pepporoni pizza!)

Bulk mailing reminder�To save money on our growing postage expenses, we have gone to a bulk mailing system. As a result, we are not allowed to publish shop �n share forms or include raffle tickets or Fons & Porter subscription forms. We ask you to please consider calling when you want to order these items or visit our chapter website where you can copy and paste the certificates.
Thank you so much for understanding.

�Two things in America are astonishing: the changeableness of most human behavior and the strange stability of certain principles. Men are constantly on the move, but the spirit of humanity seems almost unmoved.� Alexis de Tocqueville-French social philosopher

An American Girl Doll of Today, Bed, & Wardrobe Raffle!
Stefie is the best dressed doll in town. She has more outfits and blankets than we can count and a custom made garden bed that would give any girl sweet dreams!
The doll will be raffled at the appreciation tea in September! To order tickets, please call Linda-847.498.6074
Winner need not be present to win.

Letters...

Dear Project Linus-
These blankets were made by my Step Mother who passed away recently.
Please distribute them to people who will appreciate all her hard work. They were all made with love, I know.
Thank you for all your good work. Gina I.

�People are like stained-glass windows. They sparkle and shine when the sun is out, but when the darkness sets in, their true beauty is revealed only if there is a light within. Elizabeth Kubler-Ross

Message from blanket day�
I really love these blanket-making days. Thank you!
Barb. G.

BY EMAIL

Dear Project Linus,
I just wanted to say thank you so much for bringing blankets to me and all the other children in the hospital. I still have my blanket I got from you a couple of years ago and bring it every time I come to the hospital. It is so comfy and warm and makes me feel so much better. It means so much to me that you make and deliver these blankets. Thanks again! julie

Hello,
Several months ago our son was in Evanston Hospital with a badly broken leg. While he was there, he received a charming Winnie the Pooh blanket from Project Linus. Your organization does a wonderful job providing a little piece of home to kids in the hospital. We are very lucky our son is home and healthy�and still enjoying his blanket. Thank you for what you do.
Sincerely, Benson and Susan F.

Linda & Judi,
In our first year of �Warming Hearts and Hands,� an outpouring of generosity came from many to help others in need. We had wonderful 6th grade students and their committed teacher from Daniel Wright School who hand-tied 35 blankets and a few pillows. I�m sure they will enjoy learning about Project Linus and where their �works of love� might go to help others. Thank you for your efforts,
Lea Murray President-Elect Volunteer Center of New Trier Township

Summer reading fun---

The Book Shelf
Mason-Dixon Knitting
The Curious Knitters Guide
by Ann Shayne & Kay Gardiner
Inspiration for simply elegant projects. This book proves that simple projects can be fun, creative and useful. The authors are also responsible for the very successful internet blog masondixonknitting.com
The Persian Pickle Club
By Sandra Dallas
A poignant story of life and friendship through quilting.
At Knit�s End
Meditations for Women Who Knit Too Much
By Stephanie Pearl McPhee
Recommended as a �Good Read� by Harice Leavitt
�Beauty is not in the face; Beauty is a light in the heart.� Kahlil Gibran

The Recipe Box!

Andrew�s Favorite Super Delicious Oatmeal Cookies
Yields-3 dozen cookies
1 cup all purpose flour
1 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
� cup butter
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla*
1/3 cup milk
3 cups rolled oats
*Eliminate vanilla if you add raisins and spices
1 teaspoon cinnamon
� teaspoon nutmeg
� teaspoon ground cloves
1 cup raisins
1 cup chopped walnuts
Sift together the flour, baking powder and spices. Cut in butter, add the sugar, eggs, vanilla and � the milk. Beat till smooth-about 2 minutes. Fold in remaining milk and the rolled oats; at this point add the raisins and walnuts. Drop by tablespoon onto baking sheet.
Bake at 350� between 15 and 20 minutes.

Celebrity Knitters and Quilters�

Celebrity Knitters and Quilters�Movie Stars-Julia Roberts, Carmen Diaz and Daryl Hannah all enjoy knitting!
Television star, S. Epatha Merkerson of Law & Order fame, recently appeared on the MARTHA show to talk about her passion�quilting!
38 million women knit or crochet-1 in 3 in the U. S.!

The chapter website:

The chapter website: www.orgsites.com/il/projectlinuschicago Check it out! It is updated regularly and the Blanketeer Bulletin Board has all the current events from our chapter.

We count on you

Total blankets donated to date by our chapter � 25,437 blankets!

The Corporate Angel�s Corner

Sunset Foods-Blanket Day Fruit Trays
Jewel-Shop n Share program
Arends Sewing Machine Co.-Janome Raffle
The Northbrook United Methodist Church

Judi racks up mileage with Kids Helping Kids in California!

On a recent trip to Oakland, California, Judi was asked to take her Kids Helping Kids presentation to the private school where her niece teaches.
After the presentation, the 7th and 8th graders at the Julie Morgan School for Girls made quilt squares for the San Jose Project Linus chapter. Blanketeers sewed wonderful quilts with the squares that the children created. The quilts were displayed at the school for two weeks before being donated.
�The kindness, love and concern of our girls shines through in the detail and care they put into each quilt square. JMSG hopes to participate annually in this service learning project.�

Tuck a pad of stick on return address labels in your purse before heading to a meeting or a quilt show. Labels save valuable time and prevent writer's cramp when trying to register for quilt drawings and door prizes. They are also handy for identifying quilt books, magazines, rulers, mats, and other quilting gadgets.

�America is a vast conspiracy to make you happy.�J Updike

Mixed bag word game answers--crochet, crazy quilt, stockinette, nine patch, yarn over, muslin square �What a Blanketeer does not need�Security check

___________________________________

PROJECT LINUS Winter Newsletter 2006
January/February/March/April
Vol. 10

Martha Stewart might call it �
Kindness 101
To begin, assemble a room full of amazingly generous volunteers, add material donations of all sorts, sprinkle with love and a desire to help a child in need. Slowly add smiles and laughter and a large handful of wisdom, guidance and support.
Thank you all for the rewarding life�s lessons you have taught us over the last nine years. We are constantly amazed at your generosity and our amazingly good fortune to be able to work with you.
As we begin the year 2006, we will be preparing to celebrate our 10th year anniversary. Because of your kindness, we have a winning formula guaranteed to continue to guide us and provide a solid foundation to take our chapter firmly into the future. Warmest wishes for 2006! linda & judi

National Make a Blanket Day 2006!
Between now and the end of February we will be collecting blankets for Project Linus- Make a Blanket/Make a Difference Day. For every blanket donation to our chapter through Arends Sewing Machine Co., you will be awarded a raffle ticket to qualify to win a Janome Quilter�s Machine. Dianne Schleeper, the owner of Arends will draw the winning ticket at her store on Saturday, March 4th.

Take The Challenge�
THE FABULOUS FLEECE Blanket CHALLENGE
Join in the fun of the challenge as we attempt to use the yards and yards of fleece that we are currently blessed with. Plan to pick up Fabulous Fleece from us in January!!! It will be available at Blanket Day on January 28th or call Judi at 847.498.3987 to pick it up from the Linus basket at her home! Remember--If you drop your blankets at Arends in Arlington Heights, before March 4th, you will be eligible to win a Janome sewing machine too!
Good luck!
�It's easy to make a buck. It's a lot tougher to make a difference.� Tom Brokaw

ebay in the News --Over 700 thousand people make a living by buying and selling full time on ebay! Our own Janice Marcus often uses ebay to buy and sell yarn to donate to Project Linus. When we receive yarn that is not appropriate for our PL blankets, Janice sells it on ebay and buys acrylic yarn at a great price.

Nutrition Tip- ---Creating stronger bones: Calcium in the diet can help to build bone mass during formative years, and help slow the rate of bone loss as we age. You can get more calcium into your diet by eating reduced-fat dairy products, dark leafy greens, broccoli, sardines and canned salmon (with bones), dried figs, almonds and sesame seeds, and by using calcium-fortified products like orange juice, soy milk and tofu.
Courtesy of Dr. Andrew Weil on Healthy Aging
The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step. Miyamoto Musashi

It�s a Wrap!
We thank the following volunteers who graciously donated their time during the busy holiday season. These amazingly generous people joined Judi & Linda to wrap packages for donations at Northbrook Court on December 23rd and 24th �Cathy Eckhart, Nancy Browning, Bunny Stoops, Amanda Steele, Mindy Frost, Merritt Kanan, Alex Neuman, Brad Neuman, Sylvia Dennis, Cissy Singleton, Susan Auvinen, Rachel Friedman, Mimi Weisbach, Gail Pierce, Elinor Bass, Eadie Crampton, Joanne Hohs, Loy and Vanessa Cerf, Kate and Traci Katz and Lori Goldman.

�Those who wish to sing always find a song.� Swedish Proverb

Shipping Detail for Hurricane Katrina
An emergency meeting was held at the Northbrook United Methodist Church in August in response to a national plea for blankets for the tiny victims of the hurricane. 44 Blanketeers answered the call and worked diligently all day in spite of the stifling summer heat in the church work room that does not have air conditioning! By 3:00 we had an amazing record blanket donation of 560 blankets. Steak and Shake in Glenview immediately offered a delicious lunch of hamburgers, cheeseburgers (with all the trimmings) and french fries. Our friends at Starbucks Coffee, Cherry Lane, Northbrook, graciously donated coffee all day and FedEx in Northbrook donated the shipping and packing boxes for 400 blankets. Judi and her husband and Linda and her husband and son are pictured above as they finished packing and labeling the blankets for shipment. In addition, the Pioneer Press covered the event and generously gave us wonderful coverage on the cover of the Northbrook Star as well as a news story and another picture inside. To date, we are pleased to report that 620 blankets have been sent from our chapter to comfort the children displaced because of the hurricane. We thank everyone for their quick and generous help. Nationwide, over 22,000 blankets have been sent.

�You have never really lived until you've done something for someone who can never repay you.�
Meadows Starbucks October 23rd
Blanket Making Day Event
Starbucks annual community blanket day was a wonderful success. THANK YOU TO OUR FRIENDS AT MEADOWS STARBUCKS for a great day of blanket making, fall treats, pumpkin lattes, hot chocolate, knitting lessons and blanket making hints. We thank Sherry for her fabulous coordination of this remarkable event and all the sales associates who helped throughout the day. In addition, we would like to thank the following people-- the owner of 3 Bags Full who taught knitting in the cafe as well as the owner of Arends Sewing Machine Co. who donated sewing machines for the sewing/meeting room. Meadows Starbucks continues to support us as a drop off site for blankets and they will make a cash donation to PL through the partner sharing program as a result of the hours worked at the event. Andy, the new manager of Starbucks has been a very generous friend in helping to promote PL with the Starbucks corporate office and he is planning another Blanket Day in 2006. THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH!

TEA AT 21,000!
We had a most delightful celebration at the Annual Appreciation Tea on Saturday, September 24th. Sixty Blanketeers spent the day listening to stories, snacking on quiche, fruit and sweets and watching a video of our chapter pictures from the last few years. Barb Magnuson, a devoted Blanketeer who recently moved to Arkansas, won Molly the raffle doll. A new American Girl doll of today was unveiled as this years raffle project. We thank all the Blanketeers who joined us. We also want to thank those who stayed late in the day to label hundreds of blankets that were donated on Saturday.

53 million American women, or 32 percent of the female population, knit or crochet according to the Craft Yarn Council of America. Celebrity Knitters include Debra Messing, Hilary Swank and Julianne Moore

Blanketing Chicagoland�As of 12/29/05 our chapter has donated 24,237 blankets!

Nationwide Coverage

As of November 2005, 1,441,440 blankets have been donated nationwide and there are 376 chapters in the United States.

Kids Helping Kids Program

KHK is chugging along with lots of new groups and many groups who have participated many times. We are going to be working with the Glenbrook North Peer Group leaders so they may introduce it to their freshman peer groups. Lake Forest High School is participating for a second time this year as well. Judi runs this successful program and may be available to speak to your group. She has an exciting �kit� of materials to share for those interested in running a KIDS HELPING KIDS program or simply interested to hear about Project Linus. The materials explain how the program works and what supplies are needed to decorate 8� muslin squares or make great no sew fleece blankets. Details may also be found on our chapter website. www.orgsites.com/il/projectlinuschicago

A Fun PL Fundraiser

How about hosting a Penny War?
Here's how it works: Each team (grade, classroom, company department or Sunday School group, etc.) has a container placed in a very visible area for a designated period of time. Every penny that is placed in a particular team's container will get one point. For everything other than a penny, you will be deducted the amount of that money. For example, if a nickel is placed in your container 5 points will come off of your total. A dime will be a 10 point loss and a dollar would be minus 100pts! You can see that it will benefit your team to put pennies into your container and dollar bills and spare "silver" change in the containers of the other group. The $$ is counted to determine the winning team. You can make things interesting such as the losing team provides lunch or does a service for the winning team. Let the Penny War begin!

Dear Friends,
�Thank you very much for the beautiful blankets. We use them for the underprivileged babies in maternity, single mom�s from the shelter, the poor and needy and the undocumented immigrants. I am very sorry I cannot share names and pictures due to HIPA confidentiality, I assure you that these mothers appreciate your hard work and spiritual mission for the needy. Wishing you a healthy and blessed New Year. My prayers are with you.�
Sincerely yours,
Sr. Benigna Morais MSC St. Anthony Hospital

�In this season of Thanksgiving, Sinai Children�s Hospital patients, families and staff thank friends for your support. Thanks for the wonderful blankets.� Daniel Johnson

�How far that little candle throws his beams! So shines a good deed in a weary world.� William Shakespeare

 Dear Linda and Judi,
After reading all the thank you�s from recipients of Linus blankets, I have to write a thank you from a sewers point of view. I do so appreciate that this time in my life that you made it possible for a 92 year old to still be able to do charity work. I am too old to do volunteer work so this charity has �made my days.� I have not kept count but I believe it�s been over 200 blankets in the past 4 years. It is also such a help money wise that the Sewing Source accepts the boxes and that Joanne fabrics offers coupons worth 40% off fabrics and batting. Again, thank you for making me feel useful again.
Sincerely, Chrystal

BY EMAIL

�Wish I could join you(at blanket day) - but the best of everything to all and happy blanket making � �tis good for others and for the soul of the maker.� E. Best

Dear Project Linus, I'm a nurse in the very same NICU where my son was recently a patient. I've known for years how important your blankets are to our babies and their families. I just never expected to be one of those families. My son died almost a month ago and one of the few tangible reminders I have of him is the beautiful, white Project Linus blanket he was given while in the NICU. Although my son only lived two days, the blanket holds many memories for me. He was baptized wrapped in that blanket and whenever I couldn't be with him, I kept the blanket with me. Now whenever grief overwhelms me, I take the blanket out of his memory box. It's a comfort to me now just as it was a comfort to my precious baby while he was sick. Words cannot thank you enough for the wonderful work you all do.

 Dear Ms. Neuman & Ms. Goldman,
On behalf of the Board of Directors, staff and residents of WINGS, I would like to thank you for your generous donation of 30 handmade children�s� blankets. Your support ensures that WINGS will be able to respond to the needs of women and children struggling with domestic violence and homelessness in the north and northwest suburbs of Chicago. Rebecca A. Darr--Executive Director WINGS

The Book Shelf�

Knitting Heaven and Earth
Check out this interesting book that examines the emotional ties that become a part of hand-crafted items. by Susan Gordon Lydon
�Kindness in words creates confidence. Kindness in thinking creates profoundness. Kindness in giving creates love.� Lao-Tzu

Mary B�s Delicious Avocado Salad

2 ripe but slightly firm avocados-diced
3 large diced tomatoes
1 can vacuum packed Green Giant Corn-drained
� cup diced red onion
Splash balsamic vinegar and olive oil
2 Tablespoons sugar-------1/2 teaspoon salt
Combine and serve as a salad or as a tasty dip with tortilla chips!

�Let us be grateful to people who make us happy, they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.�

Order or renew a subscription to a fantastic quilting source with Love of Quilting Magazine. 1/2 of the subscription price will be donated to Project Linus. Please call Linda at 847.498.6074 for details. Thank you!

We count on you
Total blankets donated to date by our chapter � 24,237 blankets! Since September of 2003 when we celebrated 10,000, we have averaged a donation of 500 blankets a month!

�It is one of the most beautiful compensations of this life that no man can sincerely try to help another without helping himself.

The Corporate Angel�s Corner

Northbrook Court-Holiday gift wrapping program
Meadows Starbucks-Cherry Lane-Northbrook-Blanket Day & Partner Giving Program
Jewel-Shop n Share program
3 Bags Full-knitting lessons
Arends Sewing Machine Co.
Eastern Accents-decorative pillow
Motorola-Tomi Russell-Matching Gifts Program
The Northbrook United Methodist Church

Fall Newsletter 2005
September/October/November/December

Please Join Us!

Project Linus Appreciation Tea
Date: Saturday, September 24, 2005
Place: Northbrook Public Library-Auditorium
1201 Cedar Lane
Time: 9:30-12:00 noon
RSVP: 847.498.3987 or 847.498.6074
This venue provides a perfect setting to enjoy heartwarming stories from nurses and child life specialists who understand first hand what a blanket can do to help a child in crisis. We have many surprises planned as well as delicious treats throughout the morning. We are so thankful for all of you and sincerely hope that you will join us as we attempt to show you, in this small way, what a huge contribution you have made and continue to make in the lives of the children.
Because of a scheduling conflict at the United Methodist Church this month, we will meet at the Northbrook Public Library until noon.
Please note that we will not host a blanket making day after the tea although we will collect blankets and ask if some people can stay to label and bag blankets in the afternoon. If you would like to stay, please tell us when you r.s.v.p. for the tea.
Hope to see you on Saturday, September 24th!

�We are only rich through what we give.�
Anne-Sophie Swetchine, writer

Magical Day In May

Last spring, Judi found herself traveling to Selma, Alabama, located just an hour away from Gee�s Bend, the home of the famous Gee�s Bend quilters. The residents of this isolated town are direct descendents of slaves who never left after the Civil War. The little girls learned to quilt at their mothers� knee. The fabric they used was old clothes; the thread was taken from old quilts. The quilts were made to keep their families warm. The colors and patterns evolved from the whim of the quilter and were influenced by the ancient African tradition handed down through the generations. Recently discovered as a major contribution to American folk art, these wonderful quilts have been exhibited in major museums throughout the United States. As an avid fan of these amazing quilters, Judi inquired about visiting to view quilts. She was graciously invited into the homes of many of the women and friendships were immediately struck. Before leaving, Judi mentioned the date of our next Blanket Day in May. Amazingly, the Gee�s Bend quilters were going to be in Chicago that weekend and would try and make it to Blanket Day. Weeks passed and soon it was the Saturday of our event. After making several unanswered phone calls, Judi was convinced that the quilters probably could not make it. She busied herself with Blanket Day tasks, and about an hour after Blanket Day began, nine Gee�s Bend quilters arrived and became Project Linus North & Central Chicagoland Blanketeers. Working side by side with us, they sewed on labels, sorted Kids Helping Kids squares, pieced quilts and ironed fabric. They were so touched that our blankets comforted children in crisis and they wanted to help. After lunch, they shared their life stories with us and sang hymns of thanks, moving many Blanketeers to tears. After taking a group picture on the Church lawn, there were hugs and more tears as we said good-bye. When their van pulled away, we looked at each other knowing we had just experienced a most unique day. Two communities of women became one on a magical day in May.

Calendar of Upcoming Events

Kids Helping Kids Program

Since we began the �Kids� program four years ago, over 22,000 children have learned about Project Linus and participated in making decorated quilt squares.
Angel�s Corner
Starbucks-Cherry Lane-Northbrook-Partner Giving Program
Washington Mutual Plaza Del Prado-tea favors
Three Bags Full-tea favors
Evanston Hospital & Lutheran General Hospital-tea favors
Tomi Russell-tea favors
Nikki�s Old Mission Market-tea favors & door prizes
The Northbrook United Methodist Church & NB Public Library
Happiness is a place between too little and too much.
Finnish Proverb

Blanket Bags

Please, please, please use clear or white plastic bags for blanket donations.
Black garbage bags can be mistaken for trash.
If you have large donations, please request clear bags from us. We will be happy to give them to you.
Thank you

We encourage our Blanketeers to be as creative as they like when making blankets for the children. We do ask however, that the blankets be carefully checked for pins before donation and that the blankets be laundered before they are donated. We ask this because the health of the children is already being compromised because of illness, and any added contaminate could threaten their conditions. This is especially important if there is an animal or smoker in the home. In this case, we ask that the blanket be laundered, dried thoroughly and enclosed in a plastic bag before donation. Please use powder detergent on fleece as liquid detergent does not react well with the fleece fabric, in some cases causing pilling.

BY EMAIL

�I am the president of the parent group at my son�s school. I would love to have the students participate in this activity. My son is a patient at Illinois Masonic and I was so touched by the blanket he received. It was camouflage on one side and drawn pictures with the Chicago Cubs and Bears teams, which are his favorite. I was so touched and emotionally moved that I have to look more into this great project.
Thank you for having such a wonderful thing for our children.� Michelle G.

Dear Ms. Neuman and Mrs. Goldman, �On behalf of the entire staff at the Family Rescue Rosenthal Lodge, we thank you for your generosity, kindness and support.�
�THANK YOU!�
�Please know that your donation of blankets for the children residing with us is greatly appreciated. It is encouraging to know that we are not in the battle to eradicate domestic violence alone; that there are compassionate people who are willing to help make the lives of survivors a little brighter.�
�We commend you for your benevolent spirit.�
Sincerely,
Denise Akapo-Program Director

Linda & Judi,
�Our two month old son was recently hospitalized at Evanston Hospital. We received a beautiful blanket from Project Linus. It was the only positive thing during his stay.
Please accept the check and blanket to keep your good work going!�
Helen

�You are unique, and if that is not fulfilled then something has been lost.�
Martha Graham

This note was forwarded to us from the child life specialist at St. Alexius.
She wrote, �Forwarding a note received from one of our patient�s mom. Keep up the great job! We always appreciate the beautiful blankets.�
Sincerely, Katie Hammerberg

A picture of a rainbow was colored by the boy on the inside of this note.

Dear Ladies of Project Linus,
I just wanted to thank you for the beautiful afghan my son received while he was in the hospital. What a nice surprise that was. The blanket kept my son Jake nice and cozy during his hospital stay and it is on his bed at home. He loves it!
What a special thing you do for people! I just wanted you to know how much it meant to us. You are special people.
God bless you!
Love the Ciccola family

�Love is the spirit that motivates the artist�s journey.�
Eric Maisel

The Book Shelf�
Knitting
Check out this inspiring first novel
by Anne Bartlett

HOT CHOCOLATE RECIPE

Chocolate is a good source of antioxidants, those chemicals known for their cell protecting properties. The darker the better.
Cocoa powder packs the biggest antioxidant punch of all.
White House Hot Chocolate
From Mrs. Bush's Kitchen �
Ingredients-
6 T. Unsweetened cocoa
6 T. Sugar
Pinch of Salt
2 1/2 cup Milk
2 1/2 cup Light Cream
1/2 t. Vanilla (or more)
Pinch of Cinnamon Powder (optional)
Whipped Cream
Orange Zest
Directions
Mix cocoa, salt, and sugar. Add milk. Heat to dissolve. Add light cream, cinnamon, vanilla. Heat to just under boiling. Mix very well and pour into warm mug. Top with whipped cream, cocoa powder, and fine orange zest.

Order or renew a subscription to a fantastic quilting source & make $10!
___I would like to purchase or renew a subscription to Love of Quilting Magazine at $20.00 per subscription. I understand that $10.00 of the subscription price will be donated to Project Linus.
Fill out this section for each subscription. (Please use the back for additional orders)
Name of recipient
Address
City
State
zip
Please make check payable to Project Linus.
Enclose with this form and mail to:
Linda Neuman
1230 Thornapple Lane
Northbrook, IL 60062
Questions?
Please call Linda at 847.498.6074
Check it out!
The chapter website: www.orgsites.com/il/projectlinuschicago
It is updated regularly and the Blanketeer Bulletin Board has all the current events from our chapter.
If you do not wish to receive this newsletter, please call Linda at 847.498.6074
Thank You!
We count on you
From September 2004 to July 2005 our chapter donated 6,530 blankets.

PROJECT LINUS Newsletter-Spring/Summer 2005

May/June/July/August

A Successful Life

Everyone measures success in different ways. Over the years, we have been proud to report our success by using the wonderful blanket totals in our annual report. Without a doubt, these numbers have been extremely impressive and continue to amaze, but on reflection, the real story in our chapter success is found in our volunteers. We salute your successful lives, measured by your resolve to give to your community. Please be comfortable in your success, knowing that your generosity of time, talent and resources change the lives of children and in turn, their families, every day. Thank you for using your special gifts to contribute something so constructive to the community. You are the success of the Project Linus mission�700 volunteers strong for our North & Central Chicagoland Chapter.
Successful people,
we know a lot of them!

Have a wonderful summer.

Interesting INFO--

To date, nationwide, Project Linus has donated 1,169,831 blankets!
On average, our chapter donates well over 500 blankets a month.
The National Points of Life Foundation has determined the hourly rate for volunteer time to be $17.19.
These statistics should help you achieve the following--- According to the experts, laugh 15 times a day and you�ll do good things for your respiration and circulation as well as your attitude!

A Special Thank You

February was NATIONAL MAKE A BLANKET DAY, sponsored by The Janome Sewing Machine Company.
We thank Diane Schleeper of Arends Sewing Machine Company in Arlington Heights and Debbie at The Sewing Source in Libertyville for participating in the event. The blankets that were collected, as a result of the promotion, were just wonderful.
We send our hearty congratulations to the winners, including Jori Goldsmith, of the Janome Quilter�s Edition sewing machines.
NOTE--This is an annual event. A raffle ticket for the sewing machine is issued with each blanket donation. Arends and The Sewing Source have graciously participated in the promotion for many years. Please patronize these very generous small business owners.
The Corporate Angel�s Corner

Starbucks-Cherry Lane-Northbrook-Partner Giving Program
Prints Charming Super Bowl Sew-In-9 Quilts
Prints Charming-Author-Lecture fundraiser
Lou Malnati�s-Northbrook-March Pizza Lunch Donation
Sweet Tomatoes-Glenview-May Lunch Donation
Nikki�s Old Mission Market-4 Poster Doll Bed
Motorola-Tomi Russell-Matching Gifts Program
The Northbrook United Methodist Church

�When I was very young, most of my childhood heros wore capes, flew through the air or picked up buildings with one arm. They were spectacular and got a lot of attention. But as I grew, my heros changed, so that now I can honestly say that anyone who does anything to help a child, is a hero to me.� Fred Rogers

OVER 7000 �KIDS HELPING KIDS��
Judi is excited to bring the P.L. �KIDS� program to area children�s groups. 7,215 children participated in KHK�s this year alone! Since we began the �Kids� program, 22,215 area children have participated in helping other children. Judi may be available to speak to your group and has an exciting �kit� of materials to share for those interested in running a KIDS HELPING KIDS program or simply interested to hear about Project Linus.
The materials explain how the program works and what supplies are needed to decorate 8� muslin squares or create no-sew fleece blankets.
Please call Judi at 847.498.3987. Directions can also be found on the chapter website at www.orgsites.com/il/projectlinuschicago

BY EMAIL
Donna contacted coordinators all over the United States with a goal of making a blanket for every Project Linus chapter. Our �chapter blanket� is #71. What a fine gesture and a special Blanketeer!

Hi Linda and Judi, Thank you for accepting my blanket! The children are so wonderful and I have been blessed to meet some really great people. Linus Hugs, Donna

More Letters...

Dear Volunteers of Project Linus, Last week my son was admitted at Evanston Hospital for a respiratory illness. Getting a smile out of my usually �laughing his socks off� 2 � year old was nearly impossible. Then someone brought him a handmade blanket from Project Linus, his eyes were glowing! He held onto the Winnie The Pooh blanket the entire stay and now carries it with his other loveys. I hope that when I have his illness under control that I can make a blanket and donate it to Project Linus. I love what you are doing! Thanks so much�Jessica-Joe�s Mommy.

A Grandmother and Blanketeer writes�
Dearest Linda & Judi, I want to thank you for the gifts of two beautiful blankets for my grandsons. They should be receiving them today. I know they will be so surprised and pleased. These gifts are �out of the blue� comfort for all children- -and an uplifting feeling for the parents- -and grandparents, to know that others who don�t even know you care and spend time making these blankets. This gift gave me a chance to �feel� what my blankets might make others experience. Thank you 1000 times. Love, Sarah

�Love has nothing to do with what you are expecting to get � only what you are expecting to give.� Katherine Hepburn

The Book Shelf

Check out this great new quilting book.
A Perfect Union of Patchwork & Applique
by Darlene Christopherson

Dear Project Linus,
My name is *****. I'm 15 and in the 10th grade. When I received your blanket that you made for me, it touched my heart. When I hold this blanket, as I am now, it comforts me and makes me feel safe. If I could carry it around everywhere I would, but, as you know I'm in the 10th grade and that's impossible! Since I have received support from my school psychologist, I have had this sense of responsibility and honor to help others like me and to promote awareness of sexual abuse, sexual assault (rape) and physical abuse. I wanted to say thanks for the blanket!! This poem is for all who help the young children of our world! Love Always, **** Thank You. Thank you for helping me get through the roughest of days. The days where life seemed to have passed in a haze. I couldn't have made it through, Without the loving and caring thoughts from you. You helped make my world complete, You are a part of my family, you see. You have been with me from my death to rebirth. Thank you, you have been my breath, my tears, and my cries. Thank you, for being my eyes!!

Fons & Porter Subrscription

Please Help!

Rummage Is Needed for The Northbrook United Methodist Church Annual Sale-call 847-272-2442 for pickup before 5/14 SALE DATE- May 21-9 am-2 pm.
Please support these remarkable people who have been so generous in allowing us to use all of their wonderful church facilities for our Blanket Bees and Annual Appreciation Teas.

WEBSITE

Please remember to check our chapter website at www.orgsites.com/il/projectlinuschicago
It is undated regularly and the Blanketeer Bulletin Board has all the current events of our chapter.

PROJECT LINUS Winter 2005 Newsletter
January/February/March/April
The Official Word From The �North & Central Chicagoland� Project Linus Chapter
www.orgsites.com/il/projectlinuschicago

The Annual Report
We are very pleased, as always, to thank all of you for your remarkable support and generosity throughout 2004. It is hard to believe, but like a growing company, we joyfully reflect on extremely impressive numbers-- our own annual business report if you will. From 12/31/03 to 12/31/04, we have donated a staggering 5,000 blankets. In the last quarter alone, we donated 1,829. In the month of December, which historically is our biggest donation month, we hit a record blanket delivery total of 1,166 blankets.
Do not underestimate the power behind these numbers. They represent thousands of children and their families, whose lives have been touched by the gift of a handmade blanket, at a moment when life seems as grim and tough as can be. The power of your handmade blankets cannot be denied.
Thank you so very much for knitting and sewing love and comfort into each blanket. Thank you for the continued financial support that is so vital to our existence. As always, we salute you and are humbled by your remarkable spirit, warmth and resolve. We are proud to share the Project Linus mission with all of you.
On behalf of the children and their families, thank you for the warm hug when it is needed the most!

Win A New Janome Sewing Machine In February at NATIONAL MAKE A BLANKET DAY

To participate, drop off a handmade blanket, measuring AT LEAST 36�X36�, at Arends or The Sewing Source, and receive a raffle ticket to win a quilter�s edition sewing machine.
February 5- Arends Sewing Center-Arlington Heights
February 19-The Sewing Source-Libertyville-Drop off a blanket or stay and sew at the store and receive a raffle ticket with each blanket donation!

SHOP �N SHARE DAYS
Monday, January 10th, Tuesday, Jan. 11th & Wednesday, Jan. 12th Jewel & Dominicks & Tuesday, January 11th & Wednesday, Jan.12th Sunset Foods
Please use the enclosed certificates when you do your grocery shopping during the second week of December. This is an easy way to make a donation to our chapter without any added cost to you. Simply hand the certificate to the cashier at checkout and 5% of your total purchase will be donated to Linus. Thanks so much for considering this easy and free way to make a donation.
Note: Please make copies of the enclosed certificates if you need more for yourself or for friends and family.

Remarkable Memorial Donations
We are again honored to be the recipients of a memorial fund for our dear friend, Elizabeth Getz. Elizabeth has been an avid Blanketeer for many years. Sadly, on December 20, Elizabeth was hospitalized after a heart attack and could not recover. She passed away on December 27th. In lieu of sending flowers, Susan Gillen, Elizabeth�s daughter, and a Blanketeer herself, has asked for memorial donations to be made in her mother�s name. The response has been remarkable and so heartwarming as we hear stories of Elizabeth�s kindness and generosity. We thank the Getz family so very much for this wonderful consideration.

Blanket Guidelines
Preemie Size-24" X 24"
Baby/Toddler-36" X 36"/36"x43"
*Preteen-40" X 60"
*Teen-50" X 72"
*Please note that we are always in need of larger size blankets for the older children.

KIDS HELPING KIDS--Judi is excited to bring the P.L. �KIDS� program to children�s groups again this year. Judi may be available to speak to your group and has an exciting �kit� of materials to share for those interested in running a KIDS HELPING KIDS program. The materials explain how the program works and what supplies are needed so the children can then decorate 8� muslin squares. Please call Judi at 847.498.3987.

BY EMAIL
Hi there �My first time to contact you � I am just preparing to drop off my first five blankets to The Sewing Source in Libertyville � I heard about Linus when a newspaper article told about a 92 year old Round Lake woman, that I had know years before, was involved and made lots of blankets � I thought, I can do that! And since Oct. have four other gals interested and busy with blanket making� thanks for being there for the recipients but also for us who need to share with others. Elizabeth Best

A letter from a donor�
Dear Linda,
I so enjoyed hearing about Project Linus from Judi. How much comfort and joy these blankets bring to so many children! I am sure it is because so much love went into making them. Sincerely, Judy Phelps

A Grateful Grandmother writes�
Dear Project Linus,
Thank you for the beautiful blanket you made for Project Linus. My granddaughter we so happy, she was in Evanston Hospital. Keep up the good work. Pat

�Hope is the thing with wings that perches on the soul and sings the tunes without the words and never stops at all.� Emily Dickenson

The Book Shelf�
Check out this interesting new book. The author supports Project Linus and mentions us in the story!
The Shop on Blossom Street by Debbie Macomber

Where Are the Blankets Distributed???
Recently, our chapter has donated blankets to the children of fallen soldiers in Iraq and Kuwait. Red, white and blue blankets are sent to these children along with a condolence letter from our chapter.

Please consider purchasing a tribute card�
When you make a donation to Project Linus of $5.00 or more, we will mail a custom message to a person of your choice, acknowledging a donation to Project Linus in their name. The card is beautifully printed in script lettering on lovely vellum stock. So much nicer than a greeting card and we do all the work!
Project Linus gratefully acknowledges a generous contribution
*Please check appropriate sentiment.
____In Honor Of
_____In Celebration Of
_____In Memory Of
Name of recipient
Address
City State zip
Please make check payable to Project Linus.---Enclose with this form and mail to:
Linda Neuman,1230 Thornapple Lane,Northbrook, IL 60062
Your name & address__________________________

�Goodness is the only investment that never fails.� Henry David Thoreau

WEBSITE
Please remember to check our chapter website at www.orgsites.com/il/projectlinuschicago It is updated regularly and the Blanketeer Bulletin Board has all the current events of our chapter.

�I� SPY BLOCKS-A Fun Quilt Idea!
Occasionally, Linda and Judi try to find time to make a quilt together for Project Linus. Right now we are collecting small pieces of fabric with interesting characters and objects for a joint �I� SPY quilt. The objects from the fabric will be listed on the back of the quilt and the child will look for them on the front. Bring fabrics and join us as we begin work on this at the next blanket day!

�Only a life lived in the service of others is a life worthwhile.� Albert Einstein

We are still collecting recipes for the chapter cookbook. Please send your favorite recipes to Linda or Judi or Email to Linuschicago@aol.com

THANK YOU TO OUR CORPORATE SUPPORTERS---
Thank you to Sherry Azaria and her team of volunteers at the 2nd annual Starbucks Make a Blanket Day. Sherry and a wonderful team of Starbucks associate-volunteers as well as extraordinary community volunteers graciously donated time and talent (on a beautiful fall day) to the Linus mission!

We thank volunteers at Hewitt Associates who participated in a blanket making event again this year. Hewitt associates are given 17 hours a year for public service and many used the Linus event for that purpose. Over 100 people participated in making over 90 blankets and they plan to do it again this year.

Order or renew a subscription to a fantastic quilting source & make $10
Please take a moment to consider this great product.
___I would like to purchase or renew a subscription to Love of Quilting Magazine at $20.00 per subscription. I understand that $10.00 of the subscription price will be donated to Project Linus.
Fill out this section for each subscription. (Please use the back for additional orders)
Name of recipient
Address
City
State
zip
Please make check payable to Project Linus.
Enclose with this form and mail to:
Linda Neuman
1230 Thornapple Lane
Northbrook, IL 60062
Questions? Please call Linda at 847.498.6074
Your name_________________________________
Your address_______________________________

PROJECT LINUS FALL NEWSLETTER 2004

September/October/November/December

Celebrations!
Every September, since Gina started our chapter in 1996, we have paused to celebrate our volunteers with a tea party. We began by celebrating the hundreds of blankets donated by holding the party in Judi�s living room. We then graduated to celebrating the several thousand blankets donated in a small room at the Northbrook Public Library and finally went on to celebrate the remarkable milestone of 10,000 blankets last September at our new spacious location at the Northbrook United Methodist Church. Well, drum roll please, we are here to tell you that we have just passed our 14,000th blanket donation!
Now we know that none of you are looking for praise and adoration but we simply must claim both for all of you right now! We are delighted to praise your marvelous contributions. We celebrate the superb workmanship and quality of each blanket donation. We celebrate the generous contributions through tribute cards, magazine subscriptions, corporate matching gifts and shop n share days. We celebrate all of you for your countless hours of hard work and superb contributions.
In addition, we celebrate Anita and the kind people of the United Methodist Church who eagerly seek dates to accommodate us for our blanket days. We celebrate Tom B. for generously donating the fantastic clear blanket bags that have been invaluable in helping us to properly store and distribute the blankets. We celebrate our board members who have been with us from the beginning�Sandra, Janet, Jeanne, Dale and Reva. We celebrate Pam, Janice, Bunny, Amanda, Nancy, Joanne and Tomi who help keep our Linus operations on track, never failing to ask what else they can do to help.
Marvelous contributions all-- kind friends of Project Linus. You are priceless and selfless leaders as you continue to give so generously of your time and talents. We adore your creative abilities and we celebrate each donation. Our favorite saying around headquarters is �Thank you for making a difference�. Indeed, thank you for all the kindness, warmth and love that you have sent to the children.
Congratulations and CHEERS to 14,000 blankets!

Thank You Summer Blanketeers!

July 17th Blanket Day was a great success. We thank the 47 Blanketeers who worked hard all day, leaving behind 230 plus labeled and bagged blankets for the children. The Blanketeers did not seem to mind brown bagging lunch and enjoyed some extra old-fashioned goodies and treats. THANK YOU SO MUCH!
�I long to accomplish a great and noble task but it is my chief duty to accomplish small tasks as if they were great & noble.� Helen Keller

KIDS HELPING KIDS--Judi is excited to bring the P.L. �KIDS� program to children�s groups again this year. She is proud to report that she has spoken to 15,000 children in the past 3 years!
Judi is available to speak to your group and has an exciting �kit� of materials to share for those interested in running a KIDS HELPING KIDS program. The materials explain how the program works and what supplies are needed so the children can the decorate 8� muslin squares. Please call her at 847.498.3987.

The Huntley-Sun City Angels, guided by Charlene K., celebrated their 1000th blanket donation in June. Judi & Linda were treated to a wonderful luncheon in the clubhouse as well as a most interesting tour of the �sewing room� and the new quilting machine that the women carefully raised money to buy. A very special thank you to our devoted friends!

Remarkable Memorial Donations
Over the last several months, we have been privileged to receive memorial donations in honor of two great women. The first was Mrs. Oberg, a dear mother and wonderful friend who passed away in her 99th year. Her son Neil asked family and friends to consider a donation to our chapter to honor his mother. She was an avid seamstress and would have loved Project Linus if she had been aware of it. We were humbled by the tremendous response that we received. The donations and written tributes have poured in in her name ever since. The second, Judi�s mother, Mrs. Phillips, passed away recently and Judi too has asked for donations to our chapter in her mother�s name. Again, the response has been remarkable and again her mother would have been so pleased as she was an avid P.L. Blanketeer for many years. We thank both families so very much for this wonderful consideration. It has made a tremendous difference in our chapter operations.

Thank You Notes--

Dear Ms. Neuman & Ms. Goldman,
On behalf of the board of directors of WINGS, I would like to thank you for your generous donation of security blankets. Your support ensures that we will be able to respond to the needs of women and children struggling with domestic violence and homelessness. Your benevolence and consideration is what makes our services a reality for the children in need. With sincere gratitude, Rebecca Darr-Executive Director

Dear Friends,
Thank you again for your kindness to the boys and girls of Lawrence Hall. Your gift of 23 handmade blankets for the children is truly appreciated. Each blanket made by loving hands lets our children know they are special. Such support contributes to the success of each and every one of the children. Each child may not know the name of the individual who helps them begin anew, but they know that there are kind and generous people in the world who care enough to help them heal. On behalf of our boys and girls, thank you. Your friendship and support �make a difference to last a lifetime.�
Sincerely, Mary Hollie, Chief Executive Officer

*A Recipe For A Cheering Bath *

Combine 8 drops of Juniper Oil,
16 drops of Lavender Oil,
8 drops of Eucalyptus Oil,
8 drops of Geranium Oil with 1 cup of Sea Salt.
Mix thoroughly and store in a handsome jar.
Add a heaping tablespoon to the tub before bathing.
A pleasant treat after a long day of blanketmaking!

The Book Shelf� Check out this great new book---
Quilts for Kids to Love by Kathy Wesley

We are proud to report that nationwide Project Linus has donated over 1 million blankets.

�To be able to find joy in another�s joy; that is the secret to happiness.� George Bernano

PROJECT LINUS Spring/Summer 2004 Newsletter
April/May/June/July/August
The Official Word From The �North & Central Chicagoland� Project Linus Chapter
Project Linus Angels

A few months ago, we sent out an urgent plea for extra blankets. Our inventory was dangerously low and the holidays were rapidly approaching. Within weeks, extra blankets started appearing in Judi�s basket. By December first, Sandra was happily contacting our hospitals and shelters, promising all the blankets that would be needed throughout the holiday season. Remarkable, without a doubt, surprising, not a bit! �We thank you all for spending extra time planning the best blanket design, shopping for materials, buying materials, working for countless hours to create the perfect blanket and mailing or delivering the blankets to us, only to start the whole process over again and not only look forward to it but thank us for allowing you to help. In addition, you tirelessly promote Project Linus in your communities, solicit materials and funds whenever possible and in many cases, travel many miles to spend whole days making more blankets.
Thank you for being our Project Linus angels and dream makers.
Thank you for your strong work ethic, great ideas and for your generosity beyond limits that have touched so many children.
Thank you for protecting their hearts.

Extra Blankets Made With Love, No Problem!

�There are two kinds of gratitude:
The sudden kind we feel for what we receive,
and the larger kind we feel for what we give.

Have a wonderful Spring & Summer!

A special thank you to the dedicated Blanketeers who worked at the Janome Make A Difference Day in February at Arends in Arlington Heights and The Sewing Source in Round Lake Beach. It was a very successful event and helped our chapter tremendously. Please patronize these wonderful small business owners who have been so generous in hosting and donating to this event.

We are so grateful for the 65 Blanketeers who joined us on March 13th. Hands and hearts were busy all day, just breaking for an occasional home baked goodie and lunch. We also enjoyed two great quilting and crocheting demonstrations. Our meetings are always great fun and have an almost magical feeling about them. If you are not working on a project that you can bring with you, please buy a yard and a half of fleece and we will teach you to make a quick and easy no-sew blanket.
Join us on May 15th!

A Note from a Blanketeer---

Dear Linda & Judi,
Wow! This was a great experience today. Great women, great conversation, terrific luncheon, and beautiful quilts for all those beautiful children who need a little warmth in their life.
I also have lots of new sewing techniques to try.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Sarah L.

�To give without any reward, or any notice, has a special quality of its own.�

�A machine made blanket keeps you warm. A handmade blanket warms the soul.�

Quilting Tip�
A children�s coloring book is an excellent place to find great appliqu� patterns. The large simple drawings lend an especially appealing design element to quilts for children.

As of March 1, 2004, our chapter has collected over 12,176 blankets!

A Very Grateful Family Writes�

Dear Project Linus,
Our son was recently admitted to St. Alexius Medical Center in Hoffman Estates. He loves his Project Linus blanket (which he affectionately calls his Wink) and now will not sleep without it. It really made his stay more comfortable and he loves his blanket!
Thank you so much for your generosity, it really means a lot to us and we have a wonderful keepsake for him. Keep up the good work. What you are doing really does matter and is appreciated greatly!!
God Bless and Take Care,
The Campbell Family

Wish List
--Urgent need�Cut 8� muslin squares for our �Kids Helping Kids� program-- please call Judi to pick up muslin-847.498.3987
--Yarn�washable acrylic or cotton (no wool please)
--Large size blankets styled for boys
--Stamps
--Cotton and Fleece fabric
-- Thin cotton batting
--#10 business size �pull and seal� envelopes

Website

PROJECT LINUS Winter 2004 Newsletter
December/January/February/March
www.orgsites.com/il/projectlinuschicago

Winter Happiness!
It is so hard to believe that the winter season is here. Although we are digging in our closets for woolen sweaters and watching the daily weather forecasters, we can�t help but think that we were just celebrating our September �Tea at 10,000 Blankets�, sipping iced tea and lemonade and basking in the warm friendship of all of our volunteers. The good news is that the warmth from all of you continues to sustain us. The constant and unwavering support that we receive from all of you keeps our chapter on track. Thank you so much for your kindness and generosity. We cannot fulfill our mission without you. We are here because of you; the children are comforted because of you.
�Happiness is the only good.
The place to be happy is here.
The way to be happy is to make other people happy� Robert Ingersoll

THANK YOU for always bringing joy and happiness. Have a wonderful winter season!
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2004 promises to be an exciting time for our chapter�among the many surprises will be a Blanketeer directory, interesting sewing and knitting demonstrations, a chapter cookbook with all the recipes that so many of you have been requesting for the last few years and Show �n Tell�a time for sharing blanket making tips and ideas.

"Kind hearts are the gardens,
Kind thoughts are the roots,
Kind words are the flowers,
Kind deeds are the fruits.
Take care of your garden
And keep out the weeds,
Fill it with sunshine
Kind words and kind deeds."
Author:Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Starbucks Community Blanket Making Day
Cherry Lane Starbucks in downtown Northbrook, hosted a blanket making day on November 9th. Over 60 blankets were produced on that day as volunteers knitted and sewed the whole day through. Starbucks not only graciously donated their store but also an endless cup of their delicious coffee for each volunteer and a gift package to take home to boot! Sunset Foods surprised volunteers with 2 large trays of fresh fruit and The Great Harvest Bread Company donated yummy loaves of grain bread and fresh butter and jam while Blockbuster added several movies, including �Finding Nemo� to keep the small children entertained while their parents made blankets. The day was a marvelous success on so many levels. Adding to the delight of the spectacular blanket donation was the excellent publicity that the event garnered. Both Pioneer Press and the Chicago Tribune expressed interest in writing stories with photographs about our chapter operations.
A very special thank you goes out to all the wonderful community volunteers who worked so hard that day, as well as to Sherry Azaria, the remarkable Starbucks associate who coordinated the event and Mike Palmer the store manager. Many associates from the store also volunteered their time that day. Corporate Starbucks has generously offered to donate the hourly salaries of the employees who worked making blankets on that day. A very special thank you also to Lynette owner of 3 Bags Full Knit Shop and two of her teachers, Jan and Jen and to Diane Schleeper of Arends Sewing Machine Company. Diane donated machines and a serger as well as a quick quilt sewing demonstration.
The Starbucks Company has suggested another event again next year. Mike Palmer is in total agreement and has offered the Cherry Lane store again for next September!

Every dollar that is donated goes towards making blankets or supporting the volunteers who give so freely of their time and talent. As of November 1, 2003, our chapter has collected over 10,850 blankets!

Many Thanks�
So many of you have responded to our additional holiday needs by making an extra blanket. We want to thank you for the extraordinary effort that is making it possible for us to comfort more children this season. Because of our growing needs, we would be very grateful if making an extra blanket now and then could be a possibility in the next several months. Thank you for the consideration!

A Note from a Blanketeer---
Dear Linda & Judi
�Appreciate your nice thank yous. I enjoy making the blankets � nice to know that at 91 � I can still be of some service.� �It also gives me something to do while I watch TV at nite�. Sincerely, Chrystal
A security blanket given to a seriously ill or traumatized child is like a warm hug when they need it most. We hope to bring a ray of sunshine into what may be a very cloudy day for them. As long as there is an ill or traumatized child, Project Linus has a job to do.

A Grateful Parent�
Dear Project Linus,
We want to thank you for the beautiful blanket that you made for our son. It is all different shades of blue and is all boy, as one nurse said. Even the nurses say it is beautiful. Austin is a 14 month old who has had two liver transplants in the last two weeks. We pray that this will be his last one at the University of Chicago Children�s Hospital. People ask me if I made the blanket for Austin. I say no, Project Linus made it for him.
Thank you so much, Donna, Dave and Judy

A Very Special Thank You to the following businesses who have recently made a donation to our chapter. Please support these special people�
Starbucks Coffee-Cherry Lane, Northbrook, Sunset Foods, Jewel Foods, Arends Sewing Machine Company, 3 Bags Full Knit Shop-Northbrook, Blockbuster Video-Cherry Lane, Northbrook, Great Harvest Bread Company-Northbrook, Panera Bread-Arlington Heights, Pioneer Press and The Northbrook United Methodist Church

Linda�s Blanket Day Harvest Soup
1 large can College Inn chicken broth Bear Creek Potato dry soup mix
1 large pkg frozen corn
2 large onions, chopped
2 tablespoons butter
1-pound turkey sausage-cut in � inch slices (turkey sausage with sun-dried tomatoes and artichokes was used for the soup at blanket day)
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
Saut� onion in butter until soft and caramelized. Add sliced turkey sausage and brown slowly. Add chicken broth. Simmer for a few minutes and add dry soup mix according to package directions. Bring to a boil, lower heat and simmer about 15 minutes.
Note�the mix and chicken broth are an excellent base for anything that you like--mixed vegetables, ham, broccoli, etc. � would all be good in this chowder like soup. Cheddar cheese is delicious sprinkled on top of each bowl. Enjoy with thick bread and a tossed green salad!

Home Depot will cut Lucite into any size piece that you need. Recently Pam, one of our Blanketeers, had 8� squares cut for us, making the Kids Helping Kids muslin squares so much easier to rotary cut!

�If there is any kindness I can show, or any good thing I can do to any fellow being, let me do it now, and not deter or neglect it, as I shall not pass this way again. William Penn

PROJECT LINUS FALL 2003 Newsletter August/September/October/November

Pure Light
�May the long time sun shine upon you,
All love surround you,
And the pure light within you,
Guide your way
on.�
Quote from--Yogi Tea
This little poem brings to mind the essence of our volunteers. The pure light within you all continues to guide the Project Linus mission. Since 1996 we are proud to report that 10,000 blankets have been donated through our chapter. Upon this historic and wondrous mark, our words of thank you seem so inadequate. Due to your amazing efforts, we have and continue to make a difference in so many children�s lives. As ever and always we celebrate you and your achievements. We are here because of all of you. We are in awe of your love and charity for Project Linus. We wish you sun shine and love. Have a wonderful fall season!

Thank You Gina & Happy Trails!
Several months ago, Gina found that the demands of her young growing family made it impossible to continue in her duties as chapter coordinator. She has turned over the position to Linda and Judi. We wish Gina all the best in the future and thank her so very much for starting the Blanketing Chicagoland Chapter and for her wonderful guidance and warmth over the last six years.

Please join us on September 13th when we have a small chance to thank you for making a difference! Saturday morning, 10:00 am-12:00 noon�a celebration tea party�for the remarkable achievement of 10,000 blankets�a truly awesome occasion--celebrating truly awesome people.
National Conference
With Linda at the wheel and Judi navigating, your chapter coordinators took an overnight road trip to Bloomington, IL in June for the Project Linus National Conference. They had the pleasure of meeting coordinators from all over the United States. With great excitement and enthusiasm 35 coordinators shared stories and amazing ideas on how to successfully run a Project Linus chapter. National President, Carol Babbitt and Vice President, Mary Balogna treated the coordinators to a wonderful expo of ideas, new products and patterns. Linda and Judi will be sharing these at the blanket days throughout the year. They had a great time and are anxious to distribute the goodies that were piled high in the backseat on the way home!

Wish List

stamps
yarn
light weight batting
A volunteer historian, willing to keep up the scrapbook

�NORTH & CENTRAL CHICAGOLAND�
We have a new name! Corporate headquarters informed us that it was becoming difficult to identify the national chapters without specific area names. To help clarify our territory, it was necessary to describe us by region, hence the North & Central Chicagoland moniker. We like it as it is reminiscent of a train, quite apropos as our chapter heads full speed into the future!

Consider what 10,000 blankets mean----
It means it is making it possible to supply blankets to help many, many children in need.

Blanket Day was a wonderful success! We welcomed our �Blanketeers� on Saturday, July 26 at the Northbrook United Methodist Church for a very fruitful day of sewing, knitting/crocheting, lunch and meeting old and new friends. Our hearty thanks to all who participated!

Judi�s Kids Helping Kids Corner
Judi begins this fall season with many appointments on her calendar for KIDS HELPING KIDS. She has already spoken to 10,000 students, truly another 10,000 milestone to celebrate at our tea this fall! Judi is anxious to meet all the children this year and spread the word about Project Linus. Her Shiny Red Jeep is always on the go!
Recently Judi was telling a group of children that Project Linus has donated over 700,000 blankets to children in need all over the country. A little girl raised her hand and asked if Judi went to each house to deliver the blanket to the child who needed it!!

Project Linus donates an average of 595 blankets every day. That means about 25 blankets every hour, or about 1 every 2 � minutes! As of June 1, 2003, 709,977 blankets have been delivered.

�Use what talents you possess: the woods would be very silent if no birds sang there except those that sang best Henry VanDyke

Janice�s Blanket Day Quiche�oven 350 degrees
2 eggs
1 pkg frozen, chopped spinach, well drained
1 lb Monterey Jack cheese
1 cup flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
1 grated onion
1 teaspoon baking powder
Beat eggs. Add spinach, milk, cheese, onion. Blend in flour and other dry ingredients. Pour into greased mini muffin pans.
Bake @ 350 degrees for 15 minutes or until brown on top.
Can also be made in a greased 9 x 13 pan, bake at 350@ degrees for 45 minutes approximately, until brown on top.
Cut into squares.
note--Janice used skim milk and low fat cheese.

A Very Special Thank You to the following businesses who have recently made a donation to our Chapter.
Please support these special people�
Marshall Fields-Northbrook Court, April Cornell-Northbrook Court, Dickinson�s Preserves, Yogi Tea, Sunset Foods, Jewel/Osco, Panera Bread-Arlington Heights, Walmart-Wheeling, Janome

A note from a grateful parent--
Hello,
I wrote you about 2 � years ago when we first received a blanket for our son who has leukemia. I just felt the need to write again and let you know that the blanket has been wonderful for my son Jacob. He loves it and it has been through a lot with him since he has been sick. The people who make these blankets have truly been a blessing to people like us. Thank you. Love, Lisa

The perfect gift for the person who is hard to buy for-- Honor someone with a donation in their name.
Here�s how with a Project Linus Tribute Card�
When you make a donation of $5.00 or more, Linda will mail a custom designed white velum tribute card to honor a special friend or relative.
To order, call her at-847.498.6074 or log onto the website at www.orgsites.com/il/projectlinuschicago
So much nicer than a greeting card and we do all the work!