I set this post up a few days ago as a pre-set mid-month reminder. Then I came back today (6/14) to edit with an addition as I learned the sad news that one of our fellow crusaders took her last breath. With a heavy heart I pass along the awareness to you as I'm sure many of you count her as a friend, and know that She Matters.
I first met Sue Pieper online - years and years ago, before blogs, before facebook. We hit it off, the way you do through typed words in emails and forums, occasional calls, similar humor, and shared interests. I was a lucky girl to meet her in person twice - and she was the real thing - warm, funny, sweet, and a fireball of enthusiasm. She made collages, assemblages, paintings and jewelry, and much more as she was a curious soul and loved to be making stuff. She joined us in several crusades....and even got her husband Gary to participate. In No. 12 we learned she had a crush on Prince and loved being near the water. In No. 16 she actually journaled *faints*. For No. 18 Sue and Gary both carved stamps for the first time. And for No. 19 they both took on stencil cutting and spray paint. For No. 22 & 24 she reminds us to pay-it-forward by giving blood, and takes on writing her private final wishes when she faced surgery a few years ago. She was a prize fighter when it came to health issues - but met the challenges with grace. I love that she shared how thrilled she was to snap a photo of a crow (in the last link). I will consider the crow my Sue-sign and will give her a wave whenever I see one. Join me in blowing kisses to the sky.
I didn't have the opportunity to meet sweet Sue but my prayers are with her husband and family and I'm blowing kisses to the sky with you... heaven is blessed!
Posted by: Barbara Steele | June 14, 2011 at 11:14 PM
Sad news. SO many friends seem to be checking out lately. Prayers offered.
Thanks for he mid month reminder Michelle! I'm hoping to be in on this one !
Posted by: Marie Z Johansen | June 14, 2011 at 11:28 PM
Kisses and warm thoughts from me too. Very sad news:(
Posted by: finnabair | June 15, 2011 at 02:18 AM
My thoughts and prayers are with all those who are feeling the pain of losing Sue.
Posted by: Cath S | June 15, 2011 at 04:11 AM
I was really sorry to read your post Michelle. Love and best wishes to all of Sue's family and friends.
Posted by: missyk | June 15, 2011 at 08:41 AM
Thank you my friends for sharing your thoughts of support for Sue's family.
Posted by: michelle ward | June 15, 2011 at 12:28 PM
Michelle,
I remember Sue from the 2007 workshop, what sad and shocking news! I am so sorry to hear of her passing....
.... I think of the gals from the various workshops often....
....as for the mid month reminder, I finished my pages (2 double spreads!) this past weekend. I am really loving the evidence journaling series of the crusades and hoping you find it in your heart to continue them! They really have kept me involved!
Again,
So sorry about Sue,
Until later,
Judy
Posted by: Judy N | June 15, 2011 at 01:16 PM
What sad news. I didn't know Sue but have visited her website in the past. I'm so sorry that she's left us so soon.
Posted by: Melisa | June 15, 2011 at 07:42 PM
That is so sad. I will be praying for her family. I am sure she will be missed very much.
Posted by: viki | June 16, 2011 at 12:58 AM
Thank you all for the kind words about my mom and the constant support that all the members of the artist community have shown my family during this time. It's amazing how many lives she has touched (not really amazing - since it's my mom) but seriously, for as many people that are hurting from her loss and never have met her in real life is just amazing. It just goes to show truly how amazing of a person she was and is. She will be missed by all that is for sure. If any are interested in reading the blog I've kept on her during her battle with cancer here is the link. http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/suepieper4family
take care,
Jessie Pieper
Posted by: Jessie Pieper | June 17, 2011 at 06:14 PM
This is the first I am hearing about Sue's passing. I am shocked and saddened beyond words. I never had the opportunity meet Sue but we did know one another in passing from blogging. Sue will be greatly missed by her family and friends everywhere but her spirit and her amazing art are forever memories to cherish. Thank you for sharing this news Michelle.
Posted by: Sherry Smyth | June 22, 2011 at 02:06 PM
OMG - such sad news. It seems like many people are crossing the veil lately. It brings new meaning to the term 'live the day'. I'll keep her spirit in my prayers
Posted by: Marie Z Johansen | July 02, 2011 at 12:57 PM