Patches made by Ann Canning to mark her daughter Mary Frances 21st Birthday andKim Shortt to remember her daughter JessicaPatch Making...We had a really special time together making patches in memory of our children. Great to see all the Mums choosing colours and bits and pieces to make their patch something so unique for their son or daughter. There was a real sense of togetherness, good to have a chat as well and we also a had a few laughs and tears but overall it was great to go back to basics and MAKE something together out of the old skills of sewing and embroidery.Ann Canning (National Secretary) admitted to us on the day that she hadn't sewn in 40 years but what a great reason to thread the old needle again!! Ann was making a patch to mark her daughter Mary Frances 21st birthday.We hope to hold these workshops around the country on a regular basis so keep an eye on our website/forum for updated information or leave your name with us in the main office 01 872 6996 and we will inform you when they are happening.Well done to all the Mums who made a patch and hope you have a real sense of pride when you see yours hanging along side those on the National Quilts.Look forward to many more memorable days making patches with other parents.moments43

Just a little note to tell you about our very successful Coffee morning. We held it on 8th July 2010 in memory of our 3 beautiful angels Emer - stillborn 14th April 97 at 27 weeks Mícheál - stillborn 6 July 2008 at 35 weeks and Pádraig - born 23rd Nov 2009 and fell asleep 26th Nov 09 at 25 weeks. We raised a total of ?2,823 on the day. It was a very touching, beautiful day and people were so good to us. Super Value in Arklow donated all the baking ingredients tea/coffee, minerals, sweets and crisps. Tony Nobbs donated a bouncy castle which was a great asset as it kept all the kids occupied. Our local Gaelic club donated some catering equipment which we would have been lost without as so many people attended. South East Stationery printed all our advertising posters free of charge and the owner Kay Garvey donated a ?50 voucher which we raffled on the day. Peter Dempsey our local Councillor arrived with 3 beautiful white doves which our daughters Aoife, Róisín and Áine released in memory of our three angels. That was a very moving and touching moment. My brother David and I did all the home baking which went down a real treat. We would also like to thank my Mam, Dad, Mother in law and all our family members who gave us lots of help, love and support on the day and a special thank you to all the people of Arklow who have been so generous to this very worthy cause. People who arrived on the day brought home baking and biscuits with them and we would like to thank them sincerely for their very kind donations.It couldn't have went any better and a great day was had by all.Theresa & Andrew O'ReillyEmer, Micheál and Pádraig brought Family and Friends together for a cuppa and very fancy cakes!!moments44