We have just started summer vacation…or as Luke calls it, “Day 4 of Mom O’Fun”    Our main project has been taking some wallpaper down and painting.  When we started taking the wallpaper down this week, I was on Pinterest looking for EASY ways to remove wallpaper.  The boys have been such great helpers.They both have been good at getting what we need and working hard.  I have always enjoyed projects and learning something new.

A few years back, Matt asked what I wanted for Christmas.  We don’t usually give big gifts.  If we need something big, we usually say it’s our Christmas present together if the tv goes out or something needs to be replaced.  When he asked me what I would like for a present, I said, “I don’t need anything, just a shopping day with friends or just a treat.”  He asked, “What is something you would like to do or learn?’ (Can you sense the educator in him?)  I said, “I sewed in college, but I haven’t kept up with it.  I would consider sewing.”  A few weeks later, he took the boys and I for a drive and we pulled up to a sewing studio.  He said, “This is your Christmas present.  We bought you sewing lessons to get you back into sewing.”

At first, I was a bit discouraged trying to remember skills, but it has turned to be a good challenge as I try to figure out new designs and ideas.  One opportunity that has been rewarding is sewing for on organization called Little Dresses for Africa.  People from all around the country sew dresses and send to the organization and they take to Africa on trips to give to girls.

When we drop off the dress to be mailed at the post-office the boys enjoy listening about where the package is going and how it will help others.  I hope to get involved with Project Linus soon by making blankets for kids in hospitals.  Prior to losing Hope, I just finished making his burp cloth and was working on his blanket.  Sewing for others does give some peace and I hope the items bring comfort and joy.

The gift of service was instilled in me from my Mom.  I remember in seventh grade mom wanted me to do something different in the summer. She signed me up to volunteer at Incarnate Word Hospital to volunteer through the summer.  At first, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I was assigned to medical records. The time I volunteered at Incarnate Work instilled work ethic skills and I loved the skills and tasks that I was assigned.

The gift of service was also instilled from my Dad.  I remember as a child around Christmas time, Dad asked which of my toys I would be willing to part with.  At first, I thought “I can’t part with any of my toys.” I think I had one or two bags of toys to donate. Dad took me to a homeless shelter and I remember walking through and seeing a whole new perspective.  I remember leaving the toys and feeling happy that kids were able to have some joy.

Being kind and being a presence is a gift.  I hope as the boys continue to grow they will have opportunities to help others and feel joy that comes from helping.  

Little Dresses for Africa

I love their motto “We’re not just sending dresses, we are sending HOPE.”