Do You Craft?

Do you craft? Any kind of craft. Making cards, sewing, jewelry making, wood working, wreath making, knitting, painting...anything at all! We are looking for donations. To be sold at our Love for Blue Fundraiser. And if they're not sold there, to be added to our Etsy Shop on May 1, 2016.

What kind of items are we looking for? Anything. Honestly. As long as it's some shade of blue. To go towards our Love For Blue project. Or anything in purple. To benefit our Caring for the Caregivers project. Here are a few examples, of what we're looking for. But honestly, we'll accept any donation.

Tutus of any style, are always a good thing. I'm yet to meet a little girl, who doesn't want to dress up. And they really are fun items.  In the past, I've made similar items. As well, as the ones you stuff with petals, pom poms, and bells.

 

Hair bows. I can't tell you, how many times I'm asked for these. And I have no clue, how to make them. I guess I could look up a Youtube video. But I am by no means a "Bow Master." Do you know of anyone who makes bows? I'd even be happy, to buy some!

Headbands. Oh, headbands...how the masses love you! I make the ones with flowers. And my Mom crochets different appliques for them too. But I know, there are "Master Headband" makers out there. Again, I'd totally be willing to buy some...

 

Do you sew? Do you know how much I struggle, to find little boy items to sell? I'd love something like this! I once, made two very similar items. For my friends' sons. But a gal, can't do it all on her own....

Aprons, oh how I love thee! And so do, many of our customers. I'm ALWAYS asked for aprons. Full aprons, half aprons, kid aprons...they want it all! Do you sew?

Jewelry is ALWAYS a big seller. Something I've wanted to learn how to make. For a long time. But do I really have those kinds of skills? I don't know. Do you make jewelry. Of any kind. We could definitely use some! We have the cancer jewelry, that was donated. But lots of people are looking for handmade baubles.

 

Do you crochet? Would you like to donate a little item. A hat, stuffed toy, or maybe a baby blanket. We'd take it all! I know my Mom and I eat, sleep, and do everything else...with a crochet hook in our hands. But even we, can only make so many items!

 

Honestly, anything you can think of, we'd accept. Embroidered towels, crochet purses, bow holders, painted boxes, handmade dresses. Whatever your talent is, we'd love to have a piece of you handcrafted goods...to add to our shop.

 

If you'd like to make a donation leave me a comment, send me an e-mail (LoveForBlue2015@aol.com), or contact me on Facebook. Also, if you'd like to donate materials, we'd happily accept them too! ❤❤❤

 



Volunteers Wanted

On this week's Wishful Wednesday, I'm looking for volunteers. Of all sorts. For our upcoming fundraiser. Actually, we're calling it a "Day of Celebration." Honestly, I can't think of a better way to put it.

 

Yes, we're fundraising. Yes, it will be a day, full of hard work. But we want it, to be a day of celebration. Of my Dad's life. Of his vision. Of our community. Of the New Mexico Cancer Community. And of the children of our community.

We could use all the help, we can get. From our entire community. In terms of spreading the word, about our upcoming fundraiser. In any way possible. Do you want to hand out flyers? Can you share on your social media? Do you know people, who would want to join us?

Maybe you have some skills, that we can use that day. Cooking, setting up, tearing down, selling our items, or helping me with the last minute details. Do you know a person, or business, that would like to sponsor us? Maybe they can donate an item for our raffle. Or food items. Maybe help us with some of the costs, associated with our fundraiser. 

 

This quote, reminds me of my Dad. He was all about giving back. It's one of the things, I admire the most, about my Dad. And one of the lessons, that I value most in life. In a ton of ways, I was more prepared this year. For our fundraiser, than I was last year. I had a T-shirt design, saved in December. Flyers made in January. I was out and about, getting things done. Then I got sick. And everything came to a screeching stop.

The thought has crossed my mind. A few times. Cancel the event. Postpone it. Reschedule. But that is not what my Dad taught me. He taught me, when things get tough, we get tougher. We somehow, pull together, and tackle this beast. And that's what I'm going to do.

We've got the permits. I talked with my friend Amber, about the T-shirts. I've been collecting donations. Flyers are being handed out. And I'm trying my best, to spread the word. One way or another, we'll get there. And hopefully, we'll have people that show up.

This event, is not about me. Or my struggles. It's about celebrating my Dad's life. Raising up the people, around us. Making a path, that will be easier, for the next family to travel. Life isn't about our accomplishments. As proud as we may be of them. It's about lifting others up. Giving a hand, when it's needed most. It's about helping others, to succeed.

That is what gets me through my days. It's the inspiration, that I lean on. We're 17 days, away from our event. I'm feeling overwhelmed. But I know, we can make it. Somehow, we'll make it. We have God on our side. A supportive community. And a purpose.

I keep thinking, about the kids in our community. Who will benefit from our scholarship fund. I'm doing this, for them. They deserve it. It's what my Dad taught me. The youth, is our future. And we have to believe in them. And invest in them.

I'm also staying tough, for the New Mexico Cancer Community. All the people we've met along the way. Because they deserve it. They fight, every single day, for their lives. Some struggle, more than others. We are all in a family. It's a group, that you never thought you'd be a part of. And now, you are a lifelong member. You want to carry the next family, through their tough time.

I think about all the families, who struggled. While we were in and out of the hospital. I can still see nurses and doctors, putting money together. To order pizza. For families. Who came from out of town. Their loved one dying. The kids, hanging out in the Family Room. Sleeping on the floor. I do it for them.

Please, if you'd like to volunteer, in any way...let me know. Contact me here on the blog, via e-mail (LoveForBlue2015@aol.com), or on Facebook. It's all about the people, we can help. And hold up, during the toughest time, of their lives. Let's make our 2nd Annual Memorial Love For Blue Fundraiser a success! ❤❤❤

Hey There Monkey!

My Dad and I, had this hilarious connection to monkeys. When I was born, I was a pretty hairy baby. And my Dad called me, his little monkey. I remember my Dad, liking to buy me, stuffed monkeys. All the time! As I'd grow out of my dresses, he'd put them on my monkeys. :)

When I got older, I'd call my Dad, "Daddy Monkey." When this series of commercials came out, I told my Dad, it reminded me of him. I was away at college. And he laughed. Every single time I'd see the commercial, I'd laugh. And when I'd move back home, to take care of my Dad, and we saw these commercials...I'd tell him, that he was on TV!

When my Dad went to the hospital in December 2010, I'd buy him a stuffed monkey. From the hospital's Gift Shop. Every single time, after that, when we were in the hospital...I'd buy my Dad a stuffed monkey. We got a nice little collection. In just a short time. And my Dad LOVED them!

During the last few weeks of his life, my Dad was in bed a lot! He'd look out his bedroom window. And I'd attempt, to make my parents' bedroom, a little more fun, for my Daddy. I'd go out and buy some of these solar toys. And I'd put them in the window. For a few years, I've been buying them for my grandma. And she enjoys them so much! My Dad thought, they were pretty fun too!

For hours he'd watch them dance around. He'd tell me, to never forget to take him some, to his grave. And I still find myself, looking for new characters. Every store I go to, I look for them. If you would like to donate some, for our fundraiser, I'd gladly except them!

I'd also put up my Dad's Birthday cards, flowers, and his collection of monkeys. He'd tell me, that he really enjoyed those monkeys. That every single time, he saw a monkey, he smiled. And he thought of me. And our fun relationship. When I see monkeys, I think of my Daddy too!

There's just something about them. The silliness behind them, remind me, of how silly my Daddy could be too! I'm hoping to sell some monkey items, at our fundraiser, in April. And I'm looking for donations. Here are a couple of things, that I found. But we're open to anything, and everything!

I see these bracelets everywhere! In fact, my Dad is the one, that bought me my first one. We were at Walgreen's one day. Picking up his prescriptions. And he saw them. He threw a couple in our basket. Because I'm ALWAYS wearing bracelets! And he liked them. The expression on the monkey's face, makes me think of my Dad's silly smile.

I'd LOVE to sell these. But I don't know where you can buy them. I've contacted the company. And hope to hear from them soon. Because online, they start at $4 a bracelet! And I haven't been able to find these monkey bracelets, at the store anymore. I just find the other animals.

 

I think these little cups are cute. They are $13.48, per dozen. So cute! I LOVE their silly grins. Honestly, these cups, totally made my morning!

 

These girly monkey cups, are $15.50 a dozen. I think they are adorable! The little girl monkeys, make me want to have a birthday party. For myself. And I'm not really into that sort of thing. But these cups are so cute!

 

These cute and colorful monkeys, are $17.99 a dozen. And I think they'd be fun, to add to our sale. My Dad LOVED things like this! In fact, I bought him 3 hanging monkeys, in December 2014. When we were hospitalized over the holidays. For weeks, they hung in our hospital room!

 

 

These cuties, made me laugh, when I saw them. They are $9.73, for 100. And are about an inch tall. But seriously, they are cute! The one that is laying down, with it's hands behind it's ears, reminds me of my Daddy. That's the way he liked to lay in bed. In the hospital, at home, wherever!

 

So there you go. I'm looking for some sponsors. To add to the items, that we are going to sell. Monkeys, remind me of my Daddy. Just like school buses do. Model cars, from Danbury Mint. Driving caps, still bring tears to my eyes. Mini tools, were his favorite! Coin collections, make me smile. And double chocolate donuts, make my heart sing. :) Those were all favorites of my Daddy.

 

And we want the Love for Blue Fundraiser, to represent my Daddy. We want to have things, that remind us, of him. That bring a smile to our faces. And to the people that will be there. If you are interested, in sponsoring us, please leave me a comment here, send me an e-mail (LoveForBlue2015@aol.com), or contact me on Facebook.

 

This is our BIG fundraiser, for the year. And we want to raise, as much money, as possible. To be able, to continue supporting those people, touched by cancer. To help fund, research. And to continue, supporting our community. Our goal is, to grow our scholarship fund. To double it, for next year. Thank You, for continuing to read our blog! And have a very Happy Wednesday! ❤❤❤

Supplies And Decorations

Have you clicked on our Sponsors Welcome Tab? I generally list, things that we could use. Items that we need. But today, I'm going to talk a little more about that. About the basic supplies, we need for our 2nd Annual Love for Blue Fundraiser. We are officially, a month away, from the big day!

We need paper goods. Like napkins, plates, bowls, plastic ware, and coffee cups. We need it all! Decorations would help too!

I found these plastic blue plates. 192 plates, for $24. A pretty good deal. A little more sturdy, than your average plates.

Same can be said for these bowls. You can get 240 plastic blue bowls, for $24. We could use these for stew, Frito pie, and fruit.

480 blue napkins, for $24. You ALWAYS need napkins. We could probably use a bunch of these guys!

We also used a number of blue tablecloths, last year. I think I bought 20, and used them all! These tablecloths are $48, for 48. We actually use them all year long! I put them on the tables, when we are selling at Craft Fairs. Adds to the blue, and grabs people's attention.

I found the blue utensils too. You get 16 sets, for $1. That's 16 forks, knives, and spoons. A pretty good deal.

Then it would be nice, to get some help with the decorations. We used balloons, last year. To line the trail. And to place at the entrance of the park. We could definitely use some help here. I think I bought 30-40 balloons, last year. They are $20, for 20. And with these balloons, you don't have to pay, to have them filled.

And we used some of these smaller balloons, as well. To line the trail. And to sell. These were great! They are $24, for 24 balloons.

We also used some streamers. To decorate the sitting areas, around the trail. And to decorate the area, where we sold our items. You can get 2 rolls, for $1.

These weights were also very helpful. I used them on the tables. And to hold down some of the balloons. They are $24, for 24 weights.

We could use a ton of these bags! To put our packets together. For people participating in the 5K Run/Walk. And for the Car Show. Even for our sale. You get 72 bags, for $36.

These larger bags, would also be helpful for our sale. You get 36 bags, for $36. These would be great when we sell blankets, larger dolls, or have bigger orders.

These smaller bags, would be really helpful. Many times, we sell lots of little items. You get 108 bags, for $36.

We'd also like to get a couple of these banners. They are $15 each. And potentially, we'd like to have 1 or 2 banners, made for our event. With my Dad's picture, and "Love for Blue," printed on them. Something we can use for years. And that we are able to use, at Craft Fairs, as well as our big fundraisers.

There are other costs too. Like coffee cups. Printing our flyers. Postage. Printing signs for the Car Show. Getting our permits. Lots of permits. If you would like to help, with any of these things, please let me know. You can leave me a message here, send me an e-mail (LoveForBlue2015@aol.com,) or reach me on Facebook. Thanks for all your support! ❤❤❤

Food And Drink Donations

We are getting close, to our 2nd Annual Memorial Love for Blue Fundraiser. And we are trying to get, as many donations, as possible. That way, most of the money we raise, goes directly to supporting the Presbyterian Cancer Center, Cancer Services of New Mexico, the American Cancer Association, the Love for Blue Scholarship Fund, and our Caring for the Caregivers Boxes.

I think it's important, to also reach out to our community. And I want to make a list, of the items we are hoping to get. The items, that we are going to be selling, at our fundraiser.

1. Hamburger Patties
2. Hamburger Buns
3. Sliced Cheese
4. Hotdogs
5. Hotdog Buns
6. Nacho Cheese
7. Chips
8. Bottled Water
9. Sodas
10. Coffee
11. Baked Goods
12. Donuts
13. Items to make cookies
14. Items to make cupcakes
15. Ketchup
16. Mustard
17. Relish
18. Lettuce
19. Tomatoes
20. Onions
21. Green Chili
22. Fresh Fruit
23. Tortillas
24. Items to make breakfast burritos
25. Items to make Frito pie
26. Ice
27. Snack foods
28. Kid drinks
29. Candy
30. Gum

If there is anything you'd like to donate, please get in touch with me. All donations, no matter how large or small, are greatly appreciated! Remember, we're doing this for our community. To give back to those, who are currently struggling. Whether they are going through cancer, are taking care of someone with cancer, or are benefitting from our scholarship fund.

You can leave me a message here, send me an e-mail (LoveForBlue2015@aol.com), or you can reach me on Facebook. I'm able to pick-up any donated items. Also, if you would like to prepare something, for our sale, let me know. We need all the help, we can get! Thanks again! ❤❤❤

Caring For The Caregivers

I know. It's the toughest job, you'll ever have. But it's also the most rewarding one, you'll ever have! And honestly, as tough as it can be at times, it's not a "job." The days are long. Sleep, is not easy. Rarely, do you have alone time. Your own needs, they come last. But you wouldn't have it any other way.

At least, that's the way I felt. I put myself, last. Every single day. Because there were more important things, that needed to be done. I've learned, most caregivers are the same way. They always put themselves last. ALWAYS!

That is why I started the Caregiver Boxes. And trying to reach out to caregivers. Because it's a tough job. One that doesn't get much, if any, glory. People aren't paying you. They're not thanking you. Most of the time, you're overlooked. And I wanted the caregivers out there, to know, they matter too!

This project, is one of my favorites. Out of everything we do. To acknowledge the caregivers. To send them a little something, that hopefully makes them smile. Brightens their day. And lets them know, they are not alone. There are other people, just like them, traveling a tough journey.

I never realized, the cost, of these boxes. I mean, I use the USPS frequently. As most of my friends, live out of town. But the cost, has added up quickly. And I now realize, I need a little help. So on this Wishful Wednesday, I'm asking for some help. For the caregivers.

My plan is, to sell some items, targeted at raising funds for our Caregiver Boxes. The "color" for caregivers is purple. So that's our next color, I'll be tackling. I want to be able, to set up a "purple area," at our sales. And I'm hoping to have everything put together, before our big Love for Blue Fundraiser, in April.

I do need some help though. I have already begun, making purple items. And I look forward, to seeing what I can create. But I'd like to be able, to sell a few of the following items...

These purple awareness bracelets, are $28 for 50. And I know, from experience, that I can sell them for $1 a piece.

These angel pins, well to me, they scream caregiver. The silent angel, that is taking care, of their loved one. They are $45 for 18. I'm sure, we can get $5-10 a piece, for these sweet pins.

These keychains, would also be a nice item, to sell. I'm sure, we could get $1-2 a piece. And the cost is, $12 for 25 keychains.

If you would like to help out our cause, you can directly purchase the items. Which would be a HUGE help! You can also choose any of the items, from this section of the website. I'll be collecting, purple items. Of any kind. Or you could make a monetary donation.

As always, we welcome any assistance, in the form of postage, gift cards, items, cards, and money. You can always contact me here at the blog, via e-mail (LoveForBlue2015@aol.com), or on Facebook. Thank You, for taking the time to read this. This cause, has such a soft place, in my heart. Happy Wednesday! ❤❤❤

Show Your Support

There is so much, that goes on in March. But the one thing I ask all of you, is to show your support. Please, sport your colors, this month. It matters. It makes a difference in people's lives. When they see you, sporting their colors.

This month, is Colon Cancer Awareness month. And I ask you, to not just wear blue, this Friday. But every Friday, in March. It's a small gesture, but one that means a lot. To so many people, that are fighting colon cancer. Who are survivors, family, and friends. Also, to me.

 

I will be sporting my blue, all month long. And thinking about my Daddy. And his fight, against this disease. Please, show your love. You are more than welcome, to post to social media, and tag your posts #LoveForBlue. I'd LOVE to see your pictures! You can find us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

I don't know, if I've ever mentioned this before, but my Dad also had epilepsy. For over 60 years, my Dad lived this disease. He NEVER let it stop him, from doing what he needed to. He worked, he lived life, and he learned over time, how to live with seizures.

March 26th, is Epilepsy Awareness Day. This is another disease, that I'm passionate about. Mostly, because I watched my Dad, for my entire life. At a young age, I learned how to take care of him. When he had seizures. I learned the pattern. What was needed. And how to care for him.

As an adult, I've learned even more. Including my risk factors. And the possible risks, for any future children. I'm very passionate about this illness. For all the suffering, that I've seen. For the way, most people don't understand it. And for the way, it would crush my Dad, every single time...that he had a seizure.

For this month, I'll be sporting purple. Every single Monday, in March. And I hope you do the same. Know that this is a tough disease too. It's one, that often times, is silent. People, like my Dad, try to maintain their disease. They take their medication, try to keep stress at bay, and go to the doctor regularly. But it's not a disease, that can really be controlled.

It's embarrassing, many times, for the person who suffers from epilepsy. They struggle. Seizures come, when they least expect it. In places, they'd never expect. And they have no control. Not of their body. Not of their seizure. Many people don't know how to react. Make fun of, the person having the seizure. Take advantage of them. Steal from them.

This month, I ask that you take the time, to remember these people. There is not a lot of "support" behind the disease. You don't hear of people organizing runs, fundraisers, and the such. But I ask you, to have compassion. More than anything at all. Be understanding. Be kind.

Unlike most "Wishful Wednesdays," this one is about support. Not in terms of items, or money. But in terms of, being kind. Being thoughtful. And being supportive. Choose a blue or purple shirt. Wear it. Proudly. And I'm sure, someone you least expect, will be touched. That there is some support out there, for them! ❤❤❤

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. ❤❤❤

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. ❤❤❤

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! ❤❤❤