Yesterday we received the first batch of poppies from our friend Suzanne in Florida USA. I have been corresponding a little over the course of her poppy making … and she has been on board almost from the start. I have included verbatim text from one of her emails to me (with her permission of course) because I wanted to share part of her process with you. Actually I wonder if process is too clinical a word? It will do for now. I am also aware from the many letters and notes that arrive every day with poppies … just how much more this project means to so many people than we could have ever conceived. Enjoy your poppy making.
Hello!
I sent around 40 poppies (I lost count) to you on Tuesday from the St. Petersburg, FL post office.
Hope they arrive for the exhibit in November! If not, they will be with you for the big ANZAC in 2015. There will be more coming your way before the 2015 exhibit.
I did include a dedication to my father and uncle, both of whom served in WWI. My father had already turned 20 when he enlisted in 1917. My uncle enlisted at age 16…he lied about his age! After the war he remained for a short time in France and studied engineering there. He was exposed to mustard gas in the war and died at age 60 from stomach cancer. My father died at age 58 when I was 7 years old.
My initial thought was to make 58 poppies to honor my father. Now, I will include an additional 60 for my uncle.
With each poppy, I have been praying for my father and uncle, for those lost in that war and all wars, for your lost soldiers and their families, and for world peace. I believe that peace must begin in each person and if each of us would cultivate peace in our lives, the problem of world peace would be solved.
Your poppy project has helped me to focus on that truth and what a blessing it has been!!!
You know the idea of the pebble in the pond? When the pebble hits the water and the rings begin to form outward in the water, we never know where they will stop, or what effect they will have.
I think your project is like the pebble in the pond. May you be blessed.
Thank you Suzanne for your kind words.
5000 POPPIES 
A pebble in a pond sums the project up in a magnificent way. Absolutely agree. I have felt very priveleged to be part of this on-going project. Thanks to all.
Such beautiful words. I’m so glad you shared with us and how fitting for her to be contributing to the cause! Thankyou for all that you’re doing to honour our heroes!!
I agree Jan … it makes this project come to life for us when you see the impact on other people.
Could not be more happy.
Lynn
Hi Lynne
Hi from Norma My computer is working now.
We met each other briefly on Sunday when I delivered some poppies . Hope you enjoyed your walk .
You mentioned the idea of displaying the War Diary of my Uncle Bert that we have transcribed alongside some poppies in the Fed Square display . My sister Jan (one of your many poppy makers) responded very warmly to that suggestion and I am now wondering how to get the book to you .
I have three suggestions
Firstly , my husband and I could take a drive to Flowerdale St
Second idea is that I bring it into Fed on November 9th or lastly you could pick it up here at my home next Sunday when you are taking your walk.Llet me know which suits you better . Phone 98045856
Keep up the good work . I too found the letter from Florida quite moving.
Best wishes Norma
Hi Norma, Glad you have your computer workiing again … I don’t cope very well when my computer is on the blink … it’s like having my right arm cut off. So I am very pleased that your sister is happy to loan us the book for the display. It’s just a little added touch … but again one that has a lot of synergy so that is great news indeed. I am happy if you like … to pick the book up on Sunday when I am walking … so say around 9.15 a.m. if that suits you .. Let me know – my mobile number is 0412150415. Or you can leave a message here. Thank you again and please pass on my thanks to your sister. Lynn
On Wed, Oct 30, 2013 at 10:47 AM, 5000 POPPIES
have my poppies arrived yet? posted two weeks ago from nola Roberts, gracemere qld 4702
sorry just found the dedications and contributors. I am so proud of you all. fond regards nola
Thank you for sharing Suzanne’s words with us, very uplifting. Loving all the little added snippets such as this that go with the poppy project.