In the Genes?

Interesting. That's what I thought, as I read this article. Makes me wonder about a lot of different things. Especially, over the last few months. I've researched a lot of different areas...associated with colon cancer.

And now, what I'd always thought...seems to be backed up. With a little research. Don't get me wrong. There is still much to be researched, and studied.

But for me, it just solidifies the importance, of colonoscopies, screening, and knowing your history. Yes, it is very important to live a healthy lifestyle. But equally as important, is knowing your history. Knowing the chances of a possible cancer. And staying on top, of all those things.

I just find it intriguing, that the mutation of the APC gene, was found in an 18th century mummy. Goes to show, just how important our "Family History," really is. Did it cause colon cancer? We don't know. But it was there.

Can you imagine, all those years ago...having this mutation? This early research, doesn't really prove what causes modern day colon cancer. Much like, "What came first? The chicken? Or the egg?" But we know have a better understanding, of the importance, of screening. ❤❤❤

Moving Forward

There are a lot of days, when even I, just want to say, "I'm done. I'm tired. I just don't want to go anymore."

Then I realize, life doesn't just end. We're all walking a tough road. Sometimes, it feels heavier, than it is. But we all have those struggles. We just need to remember, not to give up.

In the last 11 months, there have been many difficult days. But they didn't start on March 20, 2015. No. In fact, the difficult days, started years before. When we had no answers. When my Dad, was just mysteriously sick. Unable to walk. Sleeping. Sometimes, unable to communicate with us. We didn't have answers. Life just seemed a mystery.

Those were the tough days. When life was up in the air. When I'd worry, the absolute most. Because how can you devise a plan, when you don't know what you are up against?

And through it all, I had my Dad, motivating me. Telling me, we have to fight it. We have to move forward. We need to remember that.

I think about that a lot, these days. Either I become stronger, move forward, and continue his work...or I become a miserable person. I tell you this, because in the middle of his cancer battle...I needed to remind myself daily. Sometimes, hourly. Move forward. Get stronger. Keep fighting.

 

And that my friends, is what brings me here. I couldn't ever start to process my grief, if I didn't deal with it. It's not easy. I find myself crying, a lot. Sometimes without realizing it. Something triggers me. Just the other day, I sat in the library, watching this elderly lady. From afar, she reminded me of my Dad. The childlike man, he became, near the end. And I sat there crying, for well over an hour.

Until she left the library. And another kind lady, came to sit with me. To ask if I was OK. Because that's what happens. It hits, from out of nowhere. But you must deal with it. You have to stare it down. And say, "I'm never going to forget my loved one. But I need to become a stronger person. If not for them. For me. I need to be able, to function every single day."

I say this. And I've been where you are. I've been that person, that received that news. That felt like they had been punched in the gut. I still remember when my Dad was first diagnosed. And trying to stay strong. For everyone. And silently, falling apart. Feeling like, life was never going to be the same again.

And in reality, it wasn't. But if I would have stayed in that place, I would have never have been able, to be there for my Dad. I wouldn't have been able to take care of him. To meet his needs. To allow our relationship to grow. To love him. And to make memories.

 

I know, this entire battle can be tough. It is very tough. And scary. Sometimes, overwhelming. If you are the person battling cancer, remember you are tough. You can do this. You've got to "keep your head in the game." But you can do it. If you are the caregiver, you are strong. Much stronger, than you can imagine. Honestly, one day you will look back, and wonder where your strength came from. And how it got you, through all of your journey.

 

I still look back, and think, "How did I make it? How am I still functioning? Where did this strength come from?" Honestly, I don't think I'll ever completely understand that. But it's part of life. And your team, they will provide, so much strength. Honestly, I can't even begin to tell you. Our nurses, doctors, and other team members...were constant "Fountains of Strength," for me.

 

And if you are family and friends, don't doubt yourselves. Love hard. As hard as you can. If you have an idea to call, visit, take someone some food...do it. Do it all! Make those memories. Don't be afraid. You'll always appreciate the memories, later down the road.

 



When I first came across this quote, I immediately thought of my Dad. I printed it out. And I gave it to him. It's still in his wallet. He had been sick. And no one knew, what was wrong. It had been months. Many doctors, trips to the hospital, and countless tests.

The sicker he got, the more trips to the hospital, the more fear I had...the more I thought of these words. I'd end up printing this. And framing it. It traveled with us, many times, to and from the hospital.

And I look at it, for strength. Thinking to myself, if he can do it, so can I. There were times, when my Dad couldn't eat. Or walk. Sometimes talk. But he ALWAYS fought back. It showed me, to never give up. No matter the battle, we always have a way to fight back. ALWAYS!!!

I think of this a lot. Maybe it was the first time we went to our Support Group. Or when we first met, the team, that would carry us on our journey. Maybe it was the first time, we knew it was Stage 4 Colon Cancer. But life, had forever changed. I knew that, deep in my soul. And I had to embrace, the next chapter.

Life would forever change. The somewhat "simple" life we had. And we needed to appreciate it. We needed to acknowledge, that our new journey, was laid out for us. We had time with my Dad. And we needed to take advantage of it. All of it. The good, and the bad.

More than that, we needed to prepare, for what was up ahead. The struggle, of this journey. The heartbreak, that would lay ahead. And how we'd pick up the pieces, and continue to move forward. We had to remember all of this, while fighting the fight.

There is always life, after cancer. Sometimes, we are lucky. And our loved one, or us, beat the beast. Sometimes, we are facing life, without them. But our life will be, forever changed. Cancer has a way of doing that. We will all come out of this journey, changed. Stronger for sure. And maybe, with more questions, than answers. But for all of us, touched by cancer, we must remember...to keep moving forward. ❤❤❤

Happy Birthday Daddy Bird!

Today marks, my Daddy's 83rd birthday. Very different, from just a year ago. How quickly life changes. How fast, we can find ourselves, on a different path. Walking a completely different journey.

A year ago, I was quietly decorating my Dad's hospital room. I'd smuggled in decorations for days. Hid them in a drawer. And then I waited. Most of the night, as nurses came in and out of our room. I knew their schedule by heart. We'd been there for a few weeks.

And after his early morning check, I started decorating. Banners and streamers on the windows, boards, and walls. Even if we were in the hospital, I wanted my Daddy, to enjoy his birthday. When he woke up, and I saw his smile, and it was all worth it!

He would spend the remainder of the week, telling me, not to take them down. Excited every single time, a new person walked through his door. It was a little thing. But one, that meant so much to him.

I can sit here and tell you, all about his breakfast. His morning. Our first meeting, with the ladies from Hospice. I could tell you about his lunch. And how the entire crew, from the cafeteria sang him "Happy Birthday!" And how we both made out, with a chocolate shake.

I could tell you about the visitors. His dinner. The gifts we exchanged. And the ladies from the Palliative Team. The struggles we had, as the night came. And he got tired. I could sit here, and describe his entire day, in great detail.

But that was last year. It was a different time. It was a different state of mind. It was a different emotional feeling. This year is completely different. I've almost feared this day coming. I bought decorations for his grave. And silently, counted down the days.

It's a day to celebrate my Dad. To remember all the good times. With him. At his different birthday parties. Enjoying, his beloved Mariachis. It's a day to celebrate. And I must remember that. It's not a day, to be filled with tears. And sadness. And broken hearts.

I had a completely different poem picked out. About this being my Dad's 1st Birthday in Heaven. Something talking about loving and missing him. And just yesterday, I came across this. And knew, it was just right...



Daddy Bird,

I think about you often. Probably too much. If other people really knew. I love and miss you more, with each passing day. And my heart, it feels like it will never be the same. Like all those millions of pieces, will forever be jingling in my chest. Where once, I had so much love to give.

But Dad, you taught me to be strong. To push forward. And to never give up. It's been a tough road. One where I'm constantly, reaching for the phone. To call you. To hear your voice. I can swear, I can hear you calling at night. And in my dreams, I can still see your silly toothy grin.

They say it will get easier. With each passing day. But I'm not convinced. I'm just not sure, about a lot of things. I just know, that I'll never stop loving you. And I'll never stop, trying to protect, honor, and take care of you. You were my rock and my salvation. My one place to fall. My comfort, in this world. The only person that never judged me, turned me away, or hurt me.

On this day, I truly hope and pray, that you are celebrating. Having the time of your life, up there in Heaven. Enjoying our loved ones. Eating good food. And hopefully, there is a Mariachi or 2, to enjoy.

Happy Birthday Daddy! We all love and miss you. Much more, than you'll ever know. Life is just not the same, without you in it. But today is for celebration. Not tears. So I promise to celebrate you, with some cake. If you promise me, that you'll have a GREAT day! Happy Birthday!

                                                         Love You ALWAYS,
                                                                       Your Little Morning Glory



❤❤❤

Memories

Memories. They are a funny little thing. They cloud your mind at times. They take you back in time. Remind you, of both good and bad times. When life beats you down. And family picks you back up. Memories, they are our "record book," of a life well lived.

I can sit here and recall a lot about life. People, places, events. Times that have come to an end. People who have since passed. Places, that have changed. But the memories, they are there. Forever. Sometimes, appearing at the most awkward times. But always present.

For a day out, that might take a few hours, you can remember that time, for a lifetime! You can recall an outing, for years. And I stop and think about this a lot .Having lived a lot, in the last few years. What would I change? I'd live more. Make more memories. Really, it's all we have to hang onto.

I can look back now, and remember so much of life. The good and the bad. The feelings, the smells, the people, the light, the weather. Times that I'd like, to be transported back to. People, I'd like to have, just one more conversation with. Maybe a place that has brought good memories.

Those memories, at times, get me through the difficult days. The days that feel long. When all you do is struggle. Remembering those memories, can light up my mood. Put a smile on my face. And remind me, that all struggles, are worth it.

As we're living life, we don't realize, that these "everyday events"...will one day be memories. Good and bad. We're just living. Sometimes, not appreciating the moments. The silly smile of a loved one. A gentle touch. Or a sweet smell.

I've come to find, these are the best memories. The memories that we never saw coming. The ones that are of, our everyday life. Of just sitting and talking. Laughing. Being silly. Those are the best memories. Without a doubt in my mind. They are the best.

Today, is my Dad's birthday. And I just look back, and think about the things, that made our relationship great. It was the little things. Talks on the way to school. Early morning phone calls, when I was older. And in his last months, it was just spending the afternoon together. Doing nothing more than, enjoying each other's company. And sharing a few laughs.

It's the little things in life, that make life worth living. It's those little things, that we end up cherishing. That we hold in our hearts forever. That turn into memories, when we least expect it. And on the this day especially, I'm so very thankful, for all the memories I store in my heart.

Take the time, to enjoy life. To really enjoy it. To do the things, you wouldn't normally do. To make memories. Because one day, those will be the most beautiful things, you have in your life. Your memories. ❤❤❤

Bags For Our 5K Run/Walk

I'm always looking for new things. To share with everyone. Items that I think, could make our Fundraiser a bit better. Things I'm selling, to try and raise money. Items that might be useful, to you.

I've been doing that a lot lately. As we try and decide, what to include in a "registration packet." I'd like to be able, to hand out some sort of bag. Filled with our t-shirt, a bracelet, and maybe a heart. More on that later. I've been working on them!

I think it would be easier for us, if we could pre-assemble the packets. It would make for a faster registration process. And I think it would look nice. So here we go...

I found these totes. Which are perfect! They are blue, have the cancer support ribbon, and are just a nice looking bag. Except they are a little pricey. At least for what we are doing. $28 for a dozen. Maybe it would be a good investment to sell. They really are a nice looking bag.

I found these. For $162, for 100. Actually, the bags come out to be, $1.12 each. But you have to pay a $50 set up fee. Ugh! I know. But you do get to customize these bags. For the same price. We can add our logo. Or just "Love for Blue."

I also came across these backpack style bags. For 100, we'd pay $141. That would be, about $0.90 a bag. It includes customizing the bag, as well.. And I think these would be kind of useful, on the day of the event. Something, to keep all your belongings together, while you walk or run.

So there you go. I found a few items. But I would greatly appreciate a sponsor, or two. We could also include your business name and/or logo. Let me know, if you are able to help. My e-mail address is LoveForBlue2015@aol.com. ❤❤❤

Stay In Touch

I talked about this yesterday. Stay in touch, with your medical team. It's probably my greatest tip. Whether you or your loved one, is no longer in need of treatment. It becomes vital.

To be honest, they are the ones I turned to most, in the days following my Dad's death. They pointed me in the direction of survivors' groups. And other cancer resources. As I fight to get my own colonoscopy, they are standing behind me.

We had an incredible oncologist! He fought so much, for my Dad's treatment. And I will be forever be grateful, to him. He made many personal calls, to the insurance company, hospital, and other agencies. Whenever we needed something, he was there to fight for us.

I think about this a lot. Now. In the aftermath. I've called Dr. T, a few times. He's written referrals for me. And in the end, told me to call him, as soon as I got insurance. He's on my side. And it feels pretty awesome! I'm not in this game, alone. I can lean on him. And depend on this doctor, that on first meeting...I thought was a little crazy.

It doesn't matter, that my Dad is no longer being treated. His doctors, are still supporting us. Making sure, that we are OK. That we, are getting, what we need. I've had a few calls, from various, hospital staff. Even 11 months later. To make sure we are OK.

Maybe we were the lucky ones. The ones that had a good hospital. With good staff. That cared, deeply about us. I also hope, that most Oncologists, are like this. That they take care of their "people." In ways that none of us, would ever see coming. Stay in touch. You may need them again. ❤❤❤

Colon Cancer and Young Adults

Along this journey, there have been few things I fear. One, obviously, was my Dad having cancer. Two, was losing him. Three, was me, one day being diagnosed.

It's not the kind of thing, that I stress about daily. It's the type of thing, that I wonder about. From time to time. Like when I try and schedule a routine colonoscopy. And I'm told I'm too young. Or don't have high enough risk factors. And I think, my Dad had Stage 4 Colon Cancer. Which spread. And he died...

It's become something, that I've put on my radar. But not "worried myself to death" about. Do you know what I mean? I might read a few more articles about colon cancer. Or sometimes, think in the back of my mind, could this be a symptom? Should I be concerned?

And then, I might get literature from work. Stating that colon cancer is on the rise. Something that shouldn't be put aside. It should be on people's radars. And I think again. Should I be concerned?

I came across this article, and I realized, I'm not crazy. I need to stay on top of this. I do eat a well balanced diet. High in fresh fruits and veggies. Lots of fiber. I try to exercise. And keep my weight healthy. But that doesn't guarantee anything. My Dad had Stage 4 Colon Cancer. I need to be proactive.

If one doctor says, no to a colonoscopy, it's not only my right...but my choice to find another doctor. One that can make me feel better. I've learned, that it's also essential, to lean on our medical team. The one, that cared for my Dad. They know his history. Therefore, they'll know most of mine. And my risks. And will probably be, the only ones that really listen.

After reading this article, I know I'm not crazy. These are serious topics. It's our life, in our hands. I watched my Dad, battle this disease. I saw him before, and after, his diagnosis. I insisted for years, that he have a colonoscopy. And now realize, that without my pushing, who knows if he would have ever been diagnosed.

It's made me a stronger person. With me, more settled in my ways. I'm now insured. And hope, against all hope, that I can be tested. At least, within the year. I'm a person that monitors a lot. By nature. It's not strange that I monitor my stools. I'm a trained RD. And for much of my early career, it was my job, to measure and monitor people's stools.

So I try to make sure I'm OK. Most of the time. I try and watch what I eat. How tired I get. What goes in, and out, of my body. I also would like to know, if I had cancer. No matter what my age is. Now, in 10 years, or in 30 years. It's my right.

Would I seek treatment? That's a loaded question for me. One that would depend on my age. If I had children. What was at risk? How early had they caught it? Would I have a fighting chance? If not, I couldn't imagine, going through what my Dad went through. Putting my body through all of that, to know where I was headed. But that's also my right.

As shocking as this all seems, we're just young adults. And we have rights. We have the right, to be checked. And told the honest truth. We have the right, to make decisions, about our future. And if we don't fight for ourselves, who will? Don't forget that. If nothing else, educate yourself. Who knows, when you'll need the information. ❤❤❤

Caregiver Boxes

On this Wishful Wednesday, I want to talk a little bit about caregivers. It's a tough job. A selfless job. And usually a job, that goes without payment. Most caregivers are family members. And they take care of their loved one, simply because they love them.

It is also a lonely place to be. I know this. First hand. You might see other people, during your day. But you feel very alone. Isolated. And it can wear on a person. Without you realizing it.

I used to see countless people, in any given day. Nurses, doctors, therapists, employees of my Dad's, occasionally family, neighbors, and even my Mom. But it didn't matter. Very few of them, really cared. Really wanted to know, how I was doing. Wanted to know, what was really behind my, "I'm OK."

And more times than not, it was the professionals. It was our HomeCare nurse. It was a therapist. It was a staff member, at some appointment, that we were at. Many times, as my Dad received radiation, I got a little "counseling," from a nurse. A shoulder to cry one. Someone to finally listen.

I know, this must sound crazy! Especially, not being able to talk to my Mom. But it was the truth. My Dad bore his soul to me. He told me his secrets. He didn't want other people to know. And it didn't matter, that the three of us lived together. He was trying to protect her.

So I carried all of this. I was worn down. Tired. Exhausted, actually. I drove my Dad to appointments, made sure none of our appointments overlapped, I stayed with him at chemo and radiation. I was the person that ran all over town, looking for medications, supplements, supplies, groceries, and equipment. I talked to the nurses. Gave my Dad his medications. Willed him to eat, when he refused. Cleaned him up, when his ostomy bag, would come apart. I stood up with him at night, when he couldn't sleep. And all he wanted to do was talk.

It was me. And it was tough. He was not always willing, to go to appointments. Or would get mad, when his ostomy bag, would make a mess. He HATED not being able to drive. I listened to complaints. I dealt with the bad appointments. I held him when he cried. And we talked about so much.

And maybe that's why my passion is here. In this foundation. Trying to reach out. Because it was a struggle. One that would leave me crying, uncontrollably, on the floor of the shower. My only 5 minutes of the day, to really let it all out. And I don't want others to feel this way. I want them to know, there are people out there, that are grateful. They appreciate every single thing, you are doing. They are standing behind you. I know I am!

The idea of "Caregiver Boxes," came to me in the Fall. I had a friend, who walked a very similar journey. And she also lost her dad, to cancer. I wanted to do something for her. Send her a "Hug in a Box." A little bit of sunshine.

 

I came across this picture. I don't remember if I did a search on Google, or Pinterest. But I thought, this looks like a nice idea. With $20 in my pocket, I headed to the Dollar Tree. I ultimately send a package, that my friend and her son, could share. There was candy, a few toys, silly string, nail polish, socks, stickers, and some snacks. Just some stuff, that would make their day, a little brighter.

 

It really sparked my interest. And I was able to send 4 boxes, last year. I would like to continue this. A way to reach, the caregivers out there. And it doesn't always have to be a box of stuff. I sent a $20 movie gift card, to a lady in Texas. Who was really struggling.

 

After the holidays, I got a note in the mail. Telling me, "Thank You. I really needed a little time out on my own. It was nice to go out, and have a good laugh. For just a second, I forgot about all my responsibilities. When I got back home, I realized, doing something for me...made me a better caregiver. Thank You!"

 

That really touched my heart. In ways I could never have imagined. And I realized, I needed to do this more. I wanted to do this more. I understood what she had said. And being on this side of things now, I wish someone had reached out to me. Given me, a chance to get out. And do something, to take my mind off of, all the heavy stuff I was going through.

 



 I have found other ideas since. I try and send out Fun Mail as much as possible. But I want to start a "Caregiver of the Month," box. And that's where I need your help. A little gift card...$10-20 to a movie, dinner, or something like that. Maybe some small objects, that I can send in the mail. Or even a little financial help, to pay for postage. Because, we all know how expensive that is!

I found this graphic, and it made me smile. I'd really like to send a caring person, a little bit of sunshine. Like I said, I want to try and make this a monthly thing. But I do need help in two ways. One, I need to know about the caregivers out there. Please send me a message or e-mail (loveforblue2015@aol.com) telling me about your caregiver.

And obviously, I need some help financially, or through gift cards, to make this happen. If I can remember correctly, my other boxes I've sent...cost around $35. I spent $20, plus tax buying items. And around $13 to send them, through USPS. My goal, is to try and raise $50 a month. The gift card option, is much cheaper. In I think I spent $20 on a gift card. And under a dollar for a card, and stamp.

I hope that if you are reading this, you see how a little something, can make a HUGE difference! Not just for the caregiver receiving the package. But for the person they are caring for. In terms, that their caregiver has now been refreshed. And probably feels like, they can take on more, without feeling so stressed. ❤❤❤

Striped Hats

Just a few weeks ago, I made these hats. And posted a picture on Instagram. By the next morning, I had sold the three. And they were in the mail. But I managed to get some more yarn. And I got to work!

This is the same self striping yarn, that I used on the cowl and scarves. It makes each hat unique, and interesting. At least in my opinion. The smaller sizes, look like the one on the right bottom. Have a more "blocked" look.

The larger sizes, all have a more "striped" look to them. Sizes 3-6  months, 9-12 months, and toddler are $12. Plus shipping. And the child and adult sizes are $14, plus shipping. As always, you can e-mail me at LoveForBlue2015@aol.com, or contact me on Facebook. Happy Friday! ❤❤❤

Crochet Baby Blanket

As always, it's been a busy week. But I did manage, to finish a baby blanket this week. From this pattern.

Here is an up-close shot. I snapped a picture, while I was working on it, one night. This picture is very true to color. The blanket is made with baby yarn. So it's incredibly soft!

And this picture shows, more of the design. It's a large baby blanket. Probably just larger, than a standard crib sized mattress. And I'm asking $45 for this blanket. Like always, if you are interested...contact me at LoveForBlue2015@aol.com, or on Facebook. Happy Friday! ❤❤❤

Thankful for Pets

It's actually quite funny. In my whole life, of 32 years...I've had 4 dogs. In total, I don't think we ever had dogs, for more than 3 years of my life. Ever! My first dog, ran away, months after we got it. My second dog, was stolen, just about 6 months, after we got him. And our third dog, was probably only with us, for a few months. It was the last dog. Ironically, he had cancer. And we had him, for a couple of years.

 

But our family, was not a "Dog Family." I LOVED them! But I guess we were just too busy. And dogs were not, high on our list. Well, two weeks to the day, after my Dad's passing...we rescued a dog. From my cousins.

 

This is Sweetheart. She is a feisty, little cocker spaniel. Hilarious to boot! But when we first got her, she was so scared. Didn't want to come out of her cage. By the end of that first weekend, we were inseparable! She was my buddy.

And over the next few months, she became my pal. The one girl, that could make me smile, when my heart was completely crushed! She brought life, back to me. In ways I could never have expected. And I could see, how she was helping my Mom and I heal.

Sweetheart, is nearly 2 years old now. We've gone camping, take her out for walks, and obviously we spoil her to pieces. But for me, she's been my pal. The girl that licks away my tears on the tough days. And makes me laugh, on the good days. I honestly don't know, what I would have done, without her. God has a way, of blessing us so.

As I started my plan, to move forward. I realized, my Mom needed Sweetheart. So did I. But she really did. How could I take her? And I started my search, for a puppy. Looking everywhere you could think. But remember, I told you how Sweetheart is a cocker spaniel. They don't get along too well, with other dogs.

So after taking my crazy dog out, and meeting dozens of other dogs, I realized I needed a puppy. And here is how Miss Belle, came to live with us. On Thanksgiving weekend, my heart went straight, to this little bundle of fur.

She really is the light of my day. And somehow, these two, have found a way to get along. But honestly, these dogs, have helped us. In many more ways, than I could have ever imagined. These sweet dogs, have helped our broken hearts.

It's the gentle way, that they just know, when our day isn't going well. How as quickly as my tears can fall, they can snuggle up to me. Licking them away. Trying to make me feel better. I'm very grateful to God, for these bundles of fur.

I know that life isn't always easy. And we all experience heartbreak. We all experience loss. And go through grief. But it really has been, life changing, having these two dogs. When I feel like I'm going nuts, they ground me. They remind me, that life moves forward. And that for every heartache, there is someone waiting to love you. ❤❤❤

Craft Supplies

Over social media, I've had quite a few people ask, "How can I help?" I'm trying to keep a running list, here on Wishful Wednesdays. But I'll be a little more specific, the closer we get to our 2nd Annual Memorial Love For Blue 5K Run/Walk.

Today, I'm going to talk a little bit, about craft supplies. A large bulk, of our fundraising, comes from crafts. Items that my Mom and I make. And then sell at local Craft Fairs, Farmers' Markets, and on our Etsy Shop.

We usually, just eat up the costs. Of supplies. And donate our time. All of our blue items, and everything in our Etsy Shop, is donated. By the two of us. We buy the supplies, make the items, and sell them. Taking 100% of the money, and putting it back into our foundation.

I know, not everyone is interested in buying blankets, toys, and sweaters from us. But there are lots of people that would like to support us. And this is one of the most obvious ways, I can think of. Helping us with craft supplies.

Obviously, we use a lot of yarn. A LOT! Blankets use anywhere from 2 skeins of baby yarn, to 10 skeins of regular yarn. Dolls can take 2 or more, skeins of yarn. So yarn is a good place to start. We use mostly Red Heart. But from time to time, will use Baby Bernat, I Love This Yarn, or Caron Simply Soft.

Along with toy making, come the little things. Like safety eyes. I buy all our safety eyes, at Hobby Lobby. The manager, already knows me. Well. Because I usually buy 50 packs, at a time!

We also use a ton of buttons! For everything from sweaters, to our Lalaloopsy Dolls. All sizes and shapes. Bought everywhere from Wal-Mart, to Michael's.

Keeping with toy making, and sometimes pillow making...we go through boxes and boxes of stuffing. We buy ours at Hobby Lobby. Again, they know me well. And I ALWAYS, use a coupon. A big box, can make 3 dolls, or a handful of amigurumi toys, or a few sets of pillows.

My Mom also uses quite a bit of crochet thread. I think she uses 2 1/2 rolls, for a doily. One colored, one white, and half a green. She also uses thread for her baby dresses.

Cotton yarn is also a big expense. I make a lot of dishcloths, and potholders. Sometimes baby booties. And newborn hats.

We also sew. Making aprons, dolls, and other small notions. Fabric is always welcomed. We also make baby blankets, burp clothes, and wipe boxes.

Trimmings are also a big expense. Everything from rick rack, to ribbon, and lace. We use them for sewing, and finishing our items.

We make tutus as well. And go through a ton of elastic, and tulle. Both by the yard. And by the spool. Thank goodness, for sales at Hobby Lobby!

Along with the traditional tutus, we make some, that are stuffed. With things like bells, pom poms, and flower petals.

Oh, and my Mom uses a bunch of beads. And buckles. For her dolls. All her Native dolls, take tons of these supplies!

Lastly, flowers and headbands. I make and sell, a ton of these! Mostly buying flowers from the Dollar Tree, headbands on eBay, and also using a few essentials...like felt.

That covers a lot of what we do. Making everything from Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls, to baby dresses. If you'd like to donate something, you can always contact me on here, via e-mail (LoveForBlue2015@aol.com), or on Facebook.

I do want to say a HUGE Thank You to those of you, who have sent gift cards, to us. I have met so many, amazing people, through our blog, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and at local sales. Many people want to reach out and help. And let me tell you, at times, it's overwhelming. To know, so many people support our cause. And want to help us.

Every little bit, helps. I promise, nothing is too small. I recently got a card, from a little girl. With a $5 Dollar Tree gift card inside. It made me cry. Honestly, to know that a little girl wanted to help. It was just so heartwarming. And I want to say Thank You, to every person, that has reached out to us! ❤❤❤