Lake Anna Connections

our sewing group decided to start making Quilts of Valor.” Marie’s husband, Tom, served in the Air Force in Vietnam, which personalizes the ex- perience. Barbara is another member of the sewing group who feels that her participation has Veteran Melvin Edwards, seated with Steven Summerville, is awarded a Quilt of Valor by Tina Chaleki on left and Regina Howell (photo by Richard Hinde Photography). special meaning. “I feel honored to partici- pate in the Quilts of Valor project. It’s a way that I can give back to those who bravely served their country. Just a way for them to know that their sacrifice is not forgotten. They deserve so much more.” She added, “Marie told me that she was going to teach some friends how to quilt, and maybe it might be something I’d like to try. I had been struggling after the death of my dad a year earlier. It was a godsend. Wednes- days quickly became something that I looked forward to. The ladies in the group are so fun and caring. Each one has their own amazing talent and each is eager to share. We have become a family.” She admits that sewing was a new activ- ity for her and she had much to learn. “My husband actually laughed when he saw me ironing my first quilt top. In our many years of LAKE ANNA CONNECTIONS | FALL |WINTER 2020 47