Friday, December 21, 2012
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
...let's add another 54 to the tally!
I received this e-mail today.
How wonderful.
Local talent, giving and sharing locally!
"I am donating these anonymously to our local shelter, but have attached a
tag with the project info. There are 30 here and my daughter , an attorney,
is making 24 for the shelter were she volunteers. Thanks for the idea!"
Warm Smiles to All!!
Brenda
p.s. I will have this years tallies ready, as well as new tutorials
for the New Year. So excited for what the future holds!
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
...the ladies that could!!
We received a wonderful donation of 120 dolls from the Prayer Shawl Ministry with the United Church of Christ in South Windwor, CT. This great group of women to up the challenge and made 120 dolls, 24 to donated to the Comfort Doll Project and the remained to be donated to a local shelter in Enfield, CT.
How wonderful!!
Think of all the women and children this will touch!!
I am ecstatic to add the number of 120 to our current list of donations.
Wishing everyone a blessed Thanksgiving.
Smiles to All,
Brenda
 |
| Mary Crittendon, Jackie Mazur, and Ira Burnham are busy cutting out pattern pieces |
 |
| Sheila MacIntosh and Marie Pelton trace pattern and cut out pieces |
 |
| Nancy Stearns works on clothing the dolls |
 |
| Sheila Macintosh provides refreshments to Jean Trotman and Marie Pelton |
 |
| Jean Trotman, Ira Burnham, Jackie Mazur, Marie Pelton and Nancy Stearns stuff dress and fluff the dolls |
 |
| Ira Burnham looks over all their handy work of the completed dolls |
 | |
| from left to right Shirley Lawton, Ira Burnham, Caro Mattera, Jackie Mazur,Judith Burre, Marilyn Senger, Mary Crittendon, Jean Tortman and Marie Pelton |
How wonderful!!
Think of all the women and children this will touch!!
I am ecstatic to add the number of 120 to our current list of donations.
Wishing everyone a blessed Thanksgiving.
Smiles to All,
Brenda
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
...comfort doll tree...
So,just got back from the post office. Earlier today, I spoke with Peggy from SAFE Haven in CT. We had sent her dolls earlier this year. They loved them, their clients loved them. This year they are participating in a United Way Christmas tree decoration display. This is to highlight their shelter to their community. Her idea was to decorate the tree with Comfort Dolls. Can you imagine?!? I can just envision this tree full of these wonderful dolls in their variety of dresses, hair and skin color. Of course, she is going to plug our project to get the word out about us also.
I just thought it is a wonderful idea and wanted to share it with everyone.
Actually, this weekend I have a craft show for my work, and I am going to run with her idea and decorate a small tree with the dolls to generate awareness and hopefully some bucks for postage.
I can't tell you all enough how wonderful this project is for me. I swear, I think I'm the one who is getting the most comfort!
Smiles to all
Brenda
I just thought it is a wonderful idea and wanted to share it with everyone.
Actually, this weekend I have a craft show for my work, and I am going to run with her idea and decorate a small tree with the dolls to generate awareness and hopefully some bucks for postage.
I can't tell you all enough how wonderful this project is for me. I swear, I think I'm the one who is getting the most comfort!
Smiles to all
Brenda
Sunday, November 4, 2012
...Kindness. Caring. Compassion.
I know I don't say it enough, and I know I can't say it enough, Thank-you.
I am once again taken back by strangers caring, wanting to help and acting on that desire. It is truly a comfort. What every one person does, matters, makes a difference, and it is so easy to get lost and forget that in our day to day life.
Kindness. Caring. Compassion.
These qualities still exist, I see them in you. I see them in me. It is so important that we give these qualities away, because for some, that is the only gift they will recieve, and quite frankly, the only gift they need.
Special thanks this week to:
Anne Enright (a card designer, check her out)
Driscoll of Massachusetts
Tina Sieja
Ginger Waddle
Your dolls are fantastic!
Big Smiles to All,
Brenda
I am once again taken back by strangers caring, wanting to help and acting on that desire. It is truly a comfort. What every one person does, matters, makes a difference, and it is so easy to get lost and forget that in our day to day life.
Kindness. Caring. Compassion.
These qualities still exist, I see them in you. I see them in me. It is so important that we give these qualities away, because for some, that is the only gift they will recieve, and quite frankly, the only gift they need.
Special thanks this week to:
Anne Enright (a card designer, check her out)
Driscoll of Massachusetts
Tina Sieja
Ginger Waddle
Your dolls are fantastic!
Big Smiles to All,
Brenda
Saturday, November 3, 2012
...to be announced
So, extremely cool, I did an interview with Nancy Zieman, for Sewing with Nancy. They chose to highlight our charity for Nancy's Corner.
Now, I have never seen Skype in action, how fun is that!
The producers sent me a suitcase full of equipment and I got the camera and laptop all set up. Deciding where to set the camera was one of the biggest feats, simply because, as those of you who know me personally, getting a camera angle in my house that doesn't have a pile of dolls, here, a stack of dishes, there, or a pile of clean laundry waiting to be folded is an art in and of itself. But, being the resourceful gal I can be, I figured out a great angle. What is really neat with the Skype also, is that you can see how the video feed is going to look before you patch through, so, once again bonus for me, I knew exactly what needed to be put into order and cleaned. (piano, rug, steps, and dust the nick-nack boxes)
When it was time for taping, the producer called me, and Nancy was shooting another segment, so I was able to sit, like a fly on the wall and watch that. All so interesting!
I will say, butterflies found there way to my stomach.
When that segment was done, it was 5 minutes til my taping. Luckily I had my drop spindle with me, and had that wonderful soothing act to keep me calm. (I wasn't about to get up from my stool, as the producer had already ok'd where I was sitting).
Then, show time!
Nancy sat down, and put her mic on and we chatted for a couple of minutes, and then it was game-on.
I think it went alright. Before we started, and throughout my waiting, I kept saying two wonderful verses, one I learned from listening and reading Brene Brown: "don't puff up, don't shink, honor your sacred ground", the other " God, please help me speak from my heart and not my head."(I'm pretty sure that is credit to Melody Beattie)
I'm certain I did a bunch of hand talking as I am a huge gesturer.
All in all though I think it went well. They said, that's a wrap, and thanks, so what more can you ask for.
It was a wonderful experience. And it makes me want to get a camera for my own desktop. Eh, come to think of it, that would mean that I would have to keep that angle of my house clean. Yeah, never mind on that.
I don't have an air-date yet, but I will be sure to keep you posted.
I hope everyone has a great weekend.
Smiles to All,
Brenda
Now, I have never seen Skype in action, how fun is that!
The producers sent me a suitcase full of equipment and I got the camera and laptop all set up. Deciding where to set the camera was one of the biggest feats, simply because, as those of you who know me personally, getting a camera angle in my house that doesn't have a pile of dolls, here, a stack of dishes, there, or a pile of clean laundry waiting to be folded is an art in and of itself. But, being the resourceful gal I can be, I figured out a great angle. What is really neat with the Skype also, is that you can see how the video feed is going to look before you patch through, so, once again bonus for me, I knew exactly what needed to be put into order and cleaned. (piano, rug, steps, and dust the nick-nack boxes)
When it was time for taping, the producer called me, and Nancy was shooting another segment, so I was able to sit, like a fly on the wall and watch that. All so interesting!
I will say, butterflies found there way to my stomach.
When that segment was done, it was 5 minutes til my taping. Luckily I had my drop spindle with me, and had that wonderful soothing act to keep me calm. (I wasn't about to get up from my stool, as the producer had already ok'd where I was sitting).
Then, show time!
Nancy sat down, and put her mic on and we chatted for a couple of minutes, and then it was game-on.
I think it went alright. Before we started, and throughout my waiting, I kept saying two wonderful verses, one I learned from listening and reading Brene Brown: "don't puff up, don't shink, honor your sacred ground", the other " God, please help me speak from my heart and not my head."(I'm pretty sure that is credit to Melody Beattie)
I'm certain I did a bunch of hand talking as I am a huge gesturer.
All in all though I think it went well. They said, that's a wrap, and thanks, so what more can you ask for.
It was a wonderful experience. And it makes me want to get a camera for my own desktop. Eh, come to think of it, that would mean that I would have to keep that angle of my house clean. Yeah, never mind on that.
I don't have an air-date yet, but I will be sure to keep you posted.
I hope everyone has a great weekend.
Smiles to All,
Brenda
Monday, October 29, 2012
...wonderful Sunday
What a wonderful Sunday.
My step-daughter and her two girls came over to visit their great grandmother and to help us with the Comfort Dolls. There we were, 4 generations, working together to package these precious dolls to send out. The line started with Makaila, 4th grade. Her assignment was to take the dolls out and see if they had a mouth. The dolls made from the sewnews pattern, that are obviously charactered after a human, unfortunately did not include a mouth, a complete oversight on my part when reviewing the wonderful pattern designed by Lucy Blaire. The dolls without mouths, Makaila carefully followed the two dot/ 1 dot tutorial and then passed it over to her Grandpa, my DH. My DH then proceeded with the rest of the drawing process and put the squiggle line and outline. Into the "ready for tags" pile they went.
Next, Miss Lilly, 3, handed her Mom a tag and a doll for her to pin to complete the assembly.
Throughout all of this, I was printing out the letters to recipients and cutting the brown paper bags for packaging, all the while listening to the ooows and ahhhs and "OMG she is SOOO Cute!" exclaimed from the girls. Smiles, laughter, and sharing.
Miss Lilly and My Makaila have been through more than children should. Their mother, more than a woman should.
What a wonderfully cleansing inhale and exhale this day was.
Warm Smiles to All,
Brenda
My step-daughter and her two girls came over to visit their great grandmother and to help us with the Comfort Dolls. There we were, 4 generations, working together to package these precious dolls to send out. The line started with Makaila, 4th grade. Her assignment was to take the dolls out and see if they had a mouth. The dolls made from the sewnews pattern, that are obviously charactered after a human, unfortunately did not include a mouth, a complete oversight on my part when reviewing the wonderful pattern designed by Lucy Blaire. The dolls without mouths, Makaila carefully followed the two dot/ 1 dot tutorial and then passed it over to her Grandpa, my DH. My DH then proceeded with the rest of the drawing process and put the squiggle line and outline. Into the "ready for tags" pile they went.
Next, Miss Lilly, 3, handed her Mom a tag and a doll for her to pin to complete the assembly.
Throughout all of this, I was printing out the letters to recipients and cutting the brown paper bags for packaging, all the while listening to the ooows and ahhhs and "OMG she is SOOO Cute!" exclaimed from the girls. Smiles, laughter, and sharing.
Miss Lilly and My Makaila have been through more than children should. Their mother, more than a woman should.
What a wonderfully cleansing inhale and exhale this day was.
Warm Smiles to All,
Brenda
Saturday, October 13, 2012
...the freedom of yes
I love listening to podcasts, and audiobooks. You will often find me working around the house with my earbuds in or sitting at my desk working on a doll with a voice coming from the computer keeping me company.
Tara Brach is one of my faves to listen to. I love the calming tone of her voice, the humor in her meditation talks, the cadence of her speech. She's become a really good friend, even though she is not aware of our bond.
Today I was listening to the "freedom of yes" podcast, and one part really struck me. Allowing ourselves to say "yes" to the "no". I don't know about you, but within myself, I'm finding some places where I just don't want to go. These are not physical places now, but feelings and places from my past that when I start to feel them, I get all bunched up and freaky and just, if I'm being true to myself, afraid. What I heard Tara say in this listen was, instead of shutting down or denying that feeling, honor your fear by saying yes. Yes, to the no, and don't lean into that experience right now. Honor what your gut is telling you. What I think is really cool, is that it isn't using denial, it is stepping, even if it is just the fleshy part at the tip of your big toe into what is, and saying Yes, I know this feeling leads somewhere, but No, I can wait to address it, I can address it when I am ready. What a huge accomplishment. Once again, it isn't using denial, it is taking responsibility and control over ones own life. Huge!
I just wanted to share that with you. If you are interested in learning more about Tara Brach just click on her name, I linked it to her site, or you can find her free podcasts in the itunes store.
Wishing everyone a wonderful weekend,
Smiles to All,
Brenda
Tara Brach is one of my faves to listen to. I love the calming tone of her voice, the humor in her meditation talks, the cadence of her speech. She's become a really good friend, even though she is not aware of our bond.
Today I was listening to the "freedom of yes" podcast, and one part really struck me. Allowing ourselves to say "yes" to the "no". I don't know about you, but within myself, I'm finding some places where I just don't want to go. These are not physical places now, but feelings and places from my past that when I start to feel them, I get all bunched up and freaky and just, if I'm being true to myself, afraid. What I heard Tara say in this listen was, instead of shutting down or denying that feeling, honor your fear by saying yes. Yes, to the no, and don't lean into that experience right now. Honor what your gut is telling you. What I think is really cool, is that it isn't using denial, it is stepping, even if it is just the fleshy part at the tip of your big toe into what is, and saying Yes, I know this feeling leads somewhere, but No, I can wait to address it, I can address it when I am ready. What a huge accomplishment. Once again, it isn't using denial, it is taking responsibility and control over ones own life. Huge!
I just wanted to share that with you. If you are interested in learning more about Tara Brach just click on her name, I linked it to her site, or you can find her free podcasts in the itunes store.
Wishing everyone a wonderful weekend,
Smiles to All,
Brenda
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
...revisting an old idea
I'd love to say that I am this wonderful humanitarian who is reaching out to the masses, but actually, I'm just a gal who wants to share and make dolls and express myself. And really, that's more than enough, it's plenty. There are so many great free doll patterns on the web as well as wonderful sample patterns in books and our imaginations are the only limits to how we can change and adapt these dolls to our own personal styles.
So this year...I'm starting 2013 a little early ( I know very optimistic of me with the Mayan Calendar and all)...I am going to post different-how to's (with a downloadable pdf, which I need to learn how to do) throughout the year. The sewnews pattern was such a success that I thought that this would be a great way to continue. Not only will this generate more wonderful dolls to donate, but may also provide us with an opportunity to try something new, and grow in our own skills.
Our first tutorial will be a yarn throw doll...with free-motion quilting. NOO don't go, you don't have to know how to free motion quilt, how about some glue and a few securing stitches...Phew!! got you back.
I am really looking forward to the coming year and continuing sharing this journey with all of you.
Smiles to All,
Brenda
So this year...I'm starting 2013 a little early ( I know very optimistic of me with the Mayan Calendar and all)...I am going to post different-how to's (with a downloadable pdf, which I need to learn how to do) throughout the year. The sewnews pattern was such a success that I thought that this would be a great way to continue. Not only will this generate more wonderful dolls to donate, but may also provide us with an opportunity to try something new, and grow in our own skills.
Our first tutorial will be a yarn throw doll...with free-motion quilting. NOO don't go, you don't have to know how to free motion quilt, how about some glue and a few securing stitches...Phew!! got you back.
I am really looking forward to the coming year and continuing sharing this journey with all of you.
Smiles to All,
Brenda
Thursday, September 27, 2012
...heading for a growth spurt
OK..first off, I cannot thank everyone enough for the overwhelming participation we have gotten from the SewNews pattern and articles. When I say overwhelming, I mean hundreds upon hundreds of dolls have been received. Now, while I say that... nope, I don't have an exact total, but... I can assure you that I have logged every beautiful doll and it's maker that has graced my threshold.
As many of you may or may not know, my childrens father passed away this January, followed by my Husband having a heart-attach and 6 stints put in, my middle child headed off for his first year of college, followed by my step-mother moving in with us in August!! Yes! A very busy year!!
...so...
I am posting this as I want to let everyone know that although you have not heard much from me, I am still here, and working at processing all of your wonderful donations. I have been lucky enough to start working with someone who is helping me implement some serious (or not so SERIOUS) structure into the project, and am looking forward to it's next growth spurt. (I was nowhere ready for the growth spurt which accompanied the SewNews charity of the year.) ((Grateful YES, prepared ...umm, no)
So, let me run down just a few of the wonderful donors this year:
Virginia Markel-MI
Janet Elling -CA
J. Olson of St. Paul
Patricia Renfors-MN
Sarah Johnson-OH
Lois Tucker - IN
Shirley Borgia
Kathleen Morris - MT
Chickie Hiyoshida - WA
Susan Foy - NJ
Betty Morici - NY
Jackie Samek - PA
Elsy Alvarado - NJ
Calvary Baptist Church (CLIMB) -IN
Ladywood High School - MI
Margaret Leary - CA
Catherine Sprague- OR
Dobernigg-Canada
Dee Dee Remington-OR
Peggi Lemire-OR
Janet Beutel-OH
DeRie Johnson - AR
...alright, that's a start...and yes, that is just a start.
The outpouring of support you have given this project is more than appreciated; it is support full of hope, caring, and love.
From the the bottom and top of my heart,
smiles to all!
Brenda
As many of you may or may not know, my childrens father passed away this January, followed by my Husband having a heart-attach and 6 stints put in, my middle child headed off for his first year of college, followed by my step-mother moving in with us in August!! Yes! A very busy year!!
...so...
I am posting this as I want to let everyone know that although you have not heard much from me, I am still here, and working at processing all of your wonderful donations. I have been lucky enough to start working with someone who is helping me implement some serious (or not so SERIOUS) structure into the project, and am looking forward to it's next growth spurt. (I was nowhere ready for the growth spurt which accompanied the SewNews charity of the year.) ((Grateful YES, prepared ...umm, no)
So, let me run down just a few of the wonderful donors this year:
Virginia Markel-MI
Janet Elling -CA
J. Olson of St. Paul
Patricia Renfors-MN
Sarah Johnson-OH
Lois Tucker - IN
Shirley Borgia
Kathleen Morris - MT
Chickie Hiyoshida - WA
Susan Foy - NJ
Betty Morici - NY
Jackie Samek - PA
Elsy Alvarado - NJ
Calvary Baptist Church (CLIMB) -IN
Ladywood High School - MI
Margaret Leary - CA
Catherine Sprague- OR
Dobernigg-Canada
Dee Dee Remington-OR
Peggi Lemire-OR
Janet Beutel-OH
DeRie Johnson - AR
...alright, that's a start...and yes, that is just a start.
The outpouring of support you have given this project is more than appreciated; it is support full of hope, caring, and love.
From the the bottom and top of my heart,
smiles to all!
Brenda
Friday, September 21, 2012
...Angel Comfort Dolls
I box was delivered to my door today, and inside with wonderful Comfort Dolls was this letter that I would like to share:
I am an artist.
I have created these dolls as part of my own transformational healing process. i am a survivor of domestic abuse that was perpetrated by men throughout my life. These dolls were created in tears, but also with thoughts of love, compassion, hope, justice, peace and grace. I envision these as angels that the dolls represent. Thank you for the opportunity to share in this project.
Thank you for sending not only the dolls, but such a personal account of process. The more we can bring to light and give voice to the affects of domestic abuse, the weaker it's grasp becomes.
Prayers and Warm Smiles to All,
Brenda
I am an artist.
I have created these dolls as part of my own transformational healing process. i am a survivor of domestic abuse that was perpetrated by men throughout my life. These dolls were created in tears, but also with thoughts of love, compassion, hope, justice, peace and grace. I envision these as angels that the dolls represent. Thank you for the opportunity to share in this project.
Thank you for sending not only the dolls, but such a personal account of process. The more we can bring to light and give voice to the affects of domestic abuse, the weaker it's grasp becomes.
Prayers and Warm Smiles to All,
Brenda
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
...girl, who does your hair!!
I opened up this box yesterday, and WOW!! I love the way Marian of Utah did these gals hair.
She varied the styles. Sometimes using chain stitch, straight stitch and stem stitch. What a wonderful way to add your own personal spin on these Comfort Dolls.
Thanks so much!!
Smiles to All,
Brenda
Thanks so much!!
Smiles to All,
Brenda
...a wonderful thank-you
Just wanted to share this wonderful letter with everyone.
CDP Ladies ROCK!!
CDP Ladies ROCK!!
Smiles to All,
Brenda
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
...look who went to the Ohio State Fair!
Look at this wonderful Project!
Dear Brenda,
Hi! My name is Hannah , and I thought your Comfort Dolls idea was great! I read the article in Sew News about it. I used this project as a citizenship activity, where I taught younger kids how to make them (we actually made about 30 dolls), and I made a display board showing the steps about how to make the dolls, titling it “Comfort Dolls”. I took this board as a 4-H project to the county fair, and it was selected to move on to the state fair.
Hannah
Congratrulations to Hannah! I love the creative ways so many have found to support this project, truely inspiring!!
Good Luck Hannah on winning State!!
Smiles to All,
Brenda
Dear Brenda,
Hi! My name is Hannah , and I thought your Comfort Dolls idea was great! I read the article in Sew News about it. I used this project as a citizenship activity, where I taught younger kids how to make them (we actually made about 30 dolls), and I made a display board showing the steps about how to make the dolls, titling it “Comfort Dolls”. I took this board as a 4-H project to the county fair, and it was selected to move on to the state fair.
Hannah
Congratrulations to Hannah! I love the creative ways so many have found to support this project, truely inspiring!!
Good Luck Hannah on winning State!!
Smiles to All,
Brenda
Sunday, July 8, 2012
...WE ARE OVER 100!...
...WE ARE OVER 100!... Look yous guys, we did it, we are over 100 strong, 102 to be exact! A giant thanks to everyone for your support and good wishes.
I am always in awe of not only the time that you put into making your dolls, but then taking the time to sit down and jot a little note. It is such an honor to be able to receive and read your wonderful stories. I just got a note from 2 sisters who get together on Tuesdays to sew. They have read sewnews for years and saw the project. How wonderful that they were able to have this to share with each other, and then to us.
Now, I'd like to take a moment and share with you what a discovered, well, to be honest, after the first few batches of dolls. This wonderful pattern is missing an important element. A mouth. These dolls are headed to people who have been abused for using their voice, or who have never been able to appreciate their own voice, and the dolls need to reflect the importance of being able to speak. So, my volunteers and I have been adding mouths to these beauties. (I know, why didn't I say anything earlier??? I too have my own "speaking" issues in play.)
Before anyone has a chance to say, "..but I can't make a mouth", let me assure you that YES YOU CAN! This is all we do.
All we have done is made 3 red dots, two on the top, one centered underneath and then drawn with a micron pen (or any other non-bleeding marker) a line through the center and then outlined the upper two dots, and the lower dot....and viola! A mouth in which to speak, to laugh, to cry, to sing!!
Please, do not let the mouth stop you from making these gals. If you just don't feel comfortable doing it, please send them without and I will continue giving them their voice.
Another GIANT thanks to all!!
Smiles to All,
Brenda
I am always in awe of not only the time that you put into making your dolls, but then taking the time to sit down and jot a little note. It is such an honor to be able to receive and read your wonderful stories. I just got a note from 2 sisters who get together on Tuesdays to sew. They have read sewnews for years and saw the project. How wonderful that they were able to have this to share with each other, and then to us.
 |
| Little Gals waiting to get a new home |
Before anyone has a chance to say, "..but I can't make a mouth", let me assure you that YES YOU CAN! This is all we do.
 |
| one dot left |
 |
| now one dot right |
 |
| now the 3rd dot under those |
 |
| squiggle line between |
 | |
| outline top and bottom |
TADAA!
Please, do not let the mouth stop you from making these gals. If you just don't feel comfortable doing it, please send them without and I will continue giving them their voice.
Another GIANT thanks to all!!
Smiles to All,
Brenda
Thursday, July 5, 2012
...never forget
![Photo: You are worthy. You are not your family's drama. You are not limited by the borders of your hometown. You are not a story in history books. And you can be more that the sum total of your life's experiences. "You must be a lotus, unfolding its petals when the sun rises in the sky, unaffected by the slush where it is born or even the water which sustains it!" If we tell it like it TIZ, we remember the words of the late great Tupac, "It's like if you plant something in the concrete, you ain't gonna say "damn, look at all the scratches and marks on the rose.." you gonna be like "DAMN! a ROSE grew from the CONCRETE?" We've made it through some stuff ya'll. Today, it feels good to stop and say so. Now is our new beginning. Together, we grow vibrant, healthy, delicate and strong. [Lotus Quote: Sai Baba, Photo: Tina Turner]](https://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/c0.0.400.400/p403x403/282305_343736855702925_1351048641_n.jpg)
You are worthy. You are not your family's drama. You are not limited by
the borders of your hometown. You are not a story in history books.
And you can be more that the sum total of your life's experiences. "You
must be a lotus, unfolding its petals
when the sun rises in the sky, unaffected by the slush where it is born
or even the water which sustains it!" If we tell it like it TIZ, we
remember the words of the late great Tupac, "It's like if you plant
something in the concrete, you ain't gonna say "damn, look at all the
scratches and marks on the rose.." you gonna be like "DAMN! a ROSE grew
from the CONCRETE?" We've made it through some stuff ya'll. Today, it
feels good to stop and say so. Now is our new beginning. Together, we
grow vibrant, healthy, delicate and strong. [Lotus Quote: Sai Baba,
Photo: Tina Turner]Friday, April 27, 2012
...a new delivery...
Good morning to all!! I just opened up a new package that arrived on my doorstep yesterday from Karyn in Colorado, what wonderful little gals. I have been meaning to write about how much I appreciate that some of you have reduced the pattern size so that the dolls are smaller. A GIANT thank-you on that account.
It's funny, when Lucy contacted me over a year ago and asked if she could make a pattern that could then be published in sewnews, I just said, "sure, that'd be great". eh' and that was that...but then she ACTUALLY came back with a pattern, and it was fantastic. It met all the specs, cute as could be and user-friendly. Wonderful! Sure!
Now, I have to admit that behind the scenes, I'm encouraged, but, once again, eh' people have asked before, and I've gotten a couple of dolls...so, I naively thought, eh' It will be nice to have our project written up again and receive a few of these dolls....oooooohhhhhh, how naive I was!!!
Facts are, I have received HUNDREDS upon HUNDREDS of these wonderful dolls.
That's is why the request for reducing the pattern size to 75% or smaller if you like. I'm able to combine the sizes in my packaging which keeps the weight of the package 13 0z or less, which greatly reduces the postage.
So, thank you, thank you all!!! for helping me remedy my postal conundrum!!
Smiles to All,
Brenda
It's funny, when Lucy contacted me over a year ago and asked if she could make a pattern that could then be published in sewnews, I just said, "sure, that'd be great". eh' and that was that...but then she ACTUALLY came back with a pattern, and it was fantastic. It met all the specs, cute as could be and user-friendly. Wonderful! Sure!
Now, I have to admit that behind the scenes, I'm encouraged, but, once again, eh' people have asked before, and I've gotten a couple of dolls...so, I naively thought, eh' It will be nice to have our project written up again and receive a few of these dolls....oooooohhhhhh, how naive I was!!!
Facts are, I have received HUNDREDS upon HUNDREDS of these wonderful dolls.
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| 40 Comfort Dolls from Karyn of Firestone Colorado |
That's is why the request for reducing the pattern size to 75% or smaller if you like. I'm able to combine the sizes in my packaging which keeps the weight of the package 13 0z or less, which greatly reduces the postage.
So, thank you, thank you all!!! for helping me remedy my postal conundrum!!
Smiles to All,
Brenda
Saturday, April 14, 2012
...sharing their journey
This Sew News support has been truly amazing. The dolls just keep coming!! The outpouring of support is incredible. I'd like to share with you a letter which accompanied 60, yes 60 comfort dolls.
Dear Brenda:
I have been a subscriber to SEWNEWS for some time. Each issue brings new ideas and many useful projects. The Operation Comfort Doll project really caught my attention.
I showed this project to my good friend and we decided this would be our Lenten project this year. We worked on it from just before the beginning of Lent and finished on Holy Thursday.
Enclosed in this box, you will find sixty Comfort Dolls. Each is bagged ready to receive your tag and be delivered to someone in need of encouragement at an unsettling time in their lives.
When we stared this project, we were both recovering from foot/ankle injuries. Out of our pain, we gave "birth" to these sixty "girls". We send our love and hope for a better life for those who receive our "girls"
Sincerely yours, Rebecca and Andrea
I can't tell you how much joy and hope it brings me hearing how these dolls have been created. I also received a donation from Tammy this week. It was only the second time she had used her sewing machine. She spent a week practicing and preparing her stitches and craftsmanship to transform her materials into 4 wonderful Comfort Dolls!!
Kudos to everyone for such wonderful inspiration and caring!
Smiles to All,
Brenda
Monday, March 19, 2012
...TEAM 71 HAMMOND ROCKS!!!
ok a quick personal update. My DH made it home from the hospital last Friday so he has been home for a little over a week. His strength increases daily, which is wonderful. Every day does show a new challenge, whether it is accepting the fact that recovery is slow, or coming to peace with the torturous sounds of the Harleys coming thru our open windows...March in the Midwest NEVER has 80 degree stretches and my DH loves to ride his Harley. (which he can't, yet...sometimes he feels they ride past the house mocking him) As I said, each day presents it's challenge, but thank God it does, as the alternative would have been much worse.
NOW, onto Team 71.
This Sunday I was invited out to watch the Hammond Indiana Robotic team demonstrate their Robot. Team 71 participate in FIRST robotics which is a nation wide technology competition. Let me say, these kids are AMAZING! Not only do they build a working basketball playing robot to specifications in just 6 weeks, they do community charity work throughout the year. Dee, one of their coaches, had read about CDP in SewNews and thought is was a wonderful project that the kids could participate in and would also be fun. Then, she noticed that I lived just 45 minutes away and contacted me to see if I could come up to accept their generous donation. GENEROUS!! The kids made 180 dolls to be distributed! Amazing! I also got to receive one of the team shirts, I was pretty stoked about becoming an "honorary member."
Now, if that wasn't enough, the kids give a gift to all the members of all the other teams, their subject was "safety" so, the switched up the pattern a bit, changed the hair to a hardhat, the dress into a t-shirt and then attached a lamenated card about safety!! I really admire their creativity and their "can do" attitude!!
The Comfort Doll Project gives a giant THANKS to the hardworking kids and mentors of Team 71 Hammond!!
I hope everyone has a wonderful day,
Smiles to All,
Brenda
NOW, onto Team 71.
This Sunday I was invited out to watch the Hammond Indiana Robotic team demonstrate their Robot. Team 71 participate in FIRST robotics which is a nation wide technology competition. Let me say, these kids are AMAZING! Not only do they build a working basketball playing robot to specifications in just 6 weeks, they do community charity work throughout the year. Dee, one of their coaches, had read about CDP in SewNews and thought is was a wonderful project that the kids could participate in and would also be fun. Then, she noticed that I lived just 45 minutes away and contacted me to see if I could come up to accept their generous donation. GENEROUS!! The kids made 180 dolls to be distributed! Amazing! I also got to receive one of the team shirts, I was pretty stoked about becoming an "honorary member."
Now, if that wasn't enough, the kids give a gift to all the members of all the other teams, their subject was "safety" so, the switched up the pattern a bit, changed the hair to a hardhat, the dress into a t-shirt and then attached a lamenated card about safety!! I really admire their creativity and their "can do" attitude!!
The Comfort Doll Project gives a giant THANKS to the hardworking kids and mentors of Team 71 Hammond!!
I hope everyone has a wonderful day,
Smiles to All,
Brenda
Friday, March 9, 2012
...I don't like heart attacks!
By the title you can see that something is up in my life! Unfortunately my husband was having chest pains last Friday, had a Cardio Cath on Saturday, quickly followed by 4 stints and then complications that then led to a heart attack! Needless to say, I've been even more distracted than usual.
The positive, he was already in the hospital so it was dealt with swiftly.
He spent 5 day in the ICU, a regular room for the past 2 (one of which, his birthday) and he will be coming home today!!!
YEAH!!
and another YEAH!! You guys are rocking it out!!!
So far, since the beginning of the year, we have received more than 400 dolls!! I kid you not, that is an amazing total!! So, great job to everyone.
I will be getting to those patterns soon, but luckily, I understand that I cannot get to everything that needs to be done at this time..."patience (or patients) grasshopper".
I'm looking forward to spending a quiet weekend with my DH and kids.
Feeling completely blessed!
Smiles to you All,
Brenda
The positive, he was already in the hospital so it was dealt with swiftly.
He spent 5 day in the ICU, a regular room for the past 2 (one of which, his birthday) and he will be coming home today!!!
YEAH!!
and another YEAH!! You guys are rocking it out!!!
So far, since the beginning of the year, we have received more than 400 dolls!! I kid you not, that is an amazing total!! So, great job to everyone.
I will be getting to those patterns soon, but luckily, I understand that I cannot get to everything that needs to be done at this time..."patience (or patients) grasshopper".
I'm looking forward to spending a quiet weekend with my DH and kids.
Feeling completely blessed!
Smiles to you All,
Brenda
Monday, February 20, 2012
...time to down-size...
First off, let me just say that, WOW! I am completely floored by the response we have gotten from the SewNews article. We will continue to be their charity of the years, so I can only guess how many more dolls we will receive. Now, the down side of that, the pattern is just too big. I really thought that I would have plenty of individual dolls to go with the sewnews dolls. An insight to how I pack, I collect the dolls, and then when I have a variety, I package. Doing it this way creates a package full of variety. Wonderful right? sure, but...we have received such an influx from the pattern that I'm now out of the other individual dolls.
So, what to do? One solution is to print off the pattern at 75%. If you do that, the pattern is still user friendly, but, it will conserve a ton of space, which will allow more of the dolls to fit into 1 package. I am currently placing 4 of sewnews dolls in each package.
The other solution...make more patterns accessible for our artists!
In the next couple of weeks, I will be working on doing just that.
I can't believe how fortunate we are to be having this as a problem!!
Now, I'm off to the drawing board.
Smiles to All,
Brenda
So, what to do? One solution is to print off the pattern at 75%. If you do that, the pattern is still user friendly, but, it will conserve a ton of space, which will allow more of the dolls to fit into 1 package. I am currently placing 4 of sewnews dolls in each package.
The other solution...make more patterns accessible for our artists!
In the next couple of weeks, I will be working on doing just that.
I can't believe how fortunate we are to be having this as a problem!!
Now, I'm off to the drawing board.
Smiles to All,
Brenda
Sunday, February 12, 2012
...and the answers are...
I have to say that I am overwhelmed and GIDDY with the response our project has gotten thanks to Lucy and sewnews making us their charity of the year. Phenomenal!
I have been getting a few questions, and I'd like to share them.
Q. Do CD's have to be people? Can they be animals? and do they have to wear dresses?
A: CD's do not have to be people, they can be ANY form that brings you joy.(a beautifully embellished triangle is a fantastic CD) The only requirement is that we keep them 6" or smaller. We chose this for 2 reasons, 1, because it keeps them very portable for the recipient, and 2) it keeps our shipping down to a minimum.
Q: We are knitters and would like to create our own doll to send, is that alright?
A: Yes. Do not limit your creativity by thinking that only stuffed fabric dolls are acceptable. Feel free to use your imagination - heck I can't wait to see my first steampunk CD!
Q: Our guild would like to make some CD's, but we have a local shelter. Can we donate them there?
A: That is a wonderful idea to keep the connection with your local community. I would love it if you would copy the card and the inspirational quote and attach it to each doll. Then, take some photos of your dolls, the quantity and where they were donated. By doing that, I can post them on the blog and keep them included in the total number of CD's donated.
Please feel free to ask any questions you might have.
Once again, thank you for your support.
Warm Smiles,
Brenda
I have been getting a few questions, and I'd like to share them.
Q. Do CD's have to be people? Can they be animals? and do they have to wear dresses?
A: CD's do not have to be people, they can be ANY form that brings you joy.(a beautifully embellished triangle is a fantastic CD) The only requirement is that we keep them 6" or smaller. We chose this for 2 reasons, 1, because it keeps them very portable for the recipient, and 2) it keeps our shipping down to a minimum.
Q: We are knitters and would like to create our own doll to send, is that alright?
A: Yes. Do not limit your creativity by thinking that only stuffed fabric dolls are acceptable. Feel free to use your imagination - heck I can't wait to see my first steampunk CD!
Q: Our guild would like to make some CD's, but we have a local shelter. Can we donate them there?
A: That is a wonderful idea to keep the connection with your local community. I would love it if you would copy the card and the inspirational quote and attach it to each doll. Then, take some photos of your dolls, the quantity and where they were donated. By doing that, I can post them on the blog and keep them included in the total number of CD's donated.
Please feel free to ask any questions you might have.
Once again, thank you for your support.
Warm Smiles,
Brenda
Thursday, February 2, 2012
...and they just keep coming!
Last week was a difficult one. My ex-husband, the father of my 3 boys past away at the age of 49. It has been extremely overwhelming at times. I am blessed to have a wonderful husband who empathises with what the boys may be going through as he lost his son a few years ago. We are all now part of, what is described by Melody Beattie as "The Grief Club." The layers of pain are complex. My boys are amazing, and I know that God is with each of them. I am truly blessed to have this life that I have...thanks folks
On a brighter note, as life does go on, look what keeps arriving at my doorstep.
Once again, your outpouring of support, and the sharing of your creative caring is so warmly appreciated. I know that the love that was put into making these wonderful dolls is given out 10 fold to those who receive them.
Warm Smiles to All,
Brenda
On a brighter note, as life does go on, look what keeps arriving at my doorstep.
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| Thank you Richard M. from New Jersey |
I enjoy laying out the dolls, I like to guess which ones were made first...they always seem to morph and take on just that much more character the more you make them...
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| Thank you Virginia M. from Auburn MI |
an added bow here...maybe some dreadlocks there...I LOVE that everyone adds their own little touch...or big touch, in some cases...what did I say? I L O V E IT!!!
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| Peek-a-Boo box thank you to Patricia R. from Chisholm MN |
My friend and I say, "let your freak flag fly!!! The larger, the higher, the better"
What we mean by that is simple: Be proud and embrace the wonderful differences that make you, you!
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| Thanks to Jane E. from Montara CA |
aren't these bags too sweet!
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| Thanks to J. Olson of St. Paul MN! |
awwweee, is all I could say when I opened the box!
Warm Smiles to All,
Brenda
Saturday, January 14, 2012
...look who came knocking...
I love it when I read the return address and it says "B. Torres"...why? because I KNOW there are going to be some fantastic little creatures inside the box. (one might say...hmmm. that might be setting yourself up for a bit of a let down there Brenda..) Oh no, I opened that box up and sure enough, the happiest little creatures shined up right at me! Beverly, the creator of these little gems, is of Heartland Creations. Thanks Beverly!!
Smiles to All,
Brenda
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
...I think it may get CRAZY around here
...ok first things first.
Nancy C. last month sent in some fantastic dolls, which she was given the old "type" kudo's, but nothing does justice to any ones work like a photo...and since I found my cable, I'm now once again able to provide the visual!!
I love all the different faces, fabrics, and embellishments. Thanks Nancy!
Next, I'm extremely proud to announce our first delivery of Comfort Dolls from the SewNews.com article. Ms. Lotus Moon's, from Boulder CO, package awaited me as I got in from a dental appointment. (I smiled but couldn't really feel it because I had a front cavity filled and I was numb) (47 and STILL cavities...arghhh) ok got off track...but Ms. Moon did not!! 12 wonderful new dolls! In case you missed my last post, SewNews.com has made our Comfort Doll Project their charity of 2012.
Now, with that being said...I think it is time to make a goal. My hope for 2012 is that we are able to send out 12,000 Comfort Dolls this year. Unfortunately, that number doesn't even come close to the number needed for the courageous women who are taking the first steps to a better life. The care every one of us takes in making our dolls to send forward to their new homes sooo reads through when you look at them. So, when you read my goal, remember that by taking the loving care and time with how ever many you chose to make, let that care shine through. We'll hit our number, just through pure care and love. One doll at a time.
Smiles to All,
Brenda
Nancy C. last month sent in some fantastic dolls, which she was given the old "type" kudo's, but nothing does justice to any ones work like a photo...and since I found my cable, I'm now once again able to provide the visual!! I love all the different faces, fabrics, and embellishments. Thanks Nancy!
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| hhhmmmm...goody box |
Next, I'm extremely proud to announce our first delivery of Comfort Dolls from the SewNews.com article. Ms. Lotus Moon's, from Boulder CO, package awaited me as I got in from a dental appointment. (I smiled but couldn't really feel it because I had a front cavity filled and I was numb) (47 and STILL cavities...arghhh) ok got off track...but Ms. Moon did not!! 12 wonderful new dolls! In case you missed my last post, SewNews.com has made our Comfort Doll Project their charity of 2012.
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| they look just like in the article!! |
Smiles to All,
Brenda
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
...sew news.com...featuring our project with their doll template..
I am always amazed at how much we all can achieve. It seems like I don't really do that much, I know this, because i know I could do more. But, I'm going to put that aside. What each and every one of does, helps! That is the bottom line. In one of the recent posts, pchickki used the word "ashamed"...that kinda hit me. Why?!? Because I feel the same way. I feel that I should be doing more, I can be doing more, why am I not doing more?...those damn "shoulds" they are bothersome as they don't account for the actual "what's" that we ARE doing...my goal...put shame aside, it's completely unproductive and an undermining little (cover your ears) prick (there, yes, I said it) That is how strongly I feel about shame, it's cunning and conniving...best just to steer clear.
So, here we are in a new year and SewNews.com has added us as their project. Lucy Blaire has created her own pattern to share with her readers in hopes to encourage more dolls to be donated. She has developed a wonderful, simple pattern to follow. Every month she will be highlighting our project this year in hopes to raise more awareness. GIANT THANK YOUS! to Lucy and SewNews.com
I wish everyone a wonderful new year.
With warm Smiles to All,
Brenda
So, here we are in a new year and SewNews.com has added us as their project. Lucy Blaire has created her own pattern to share with her readers in hopes to encourage more dolls to be donated. She has developed a wonderful, simple pattern to follow. Every month she will be highlighting our project this year in hopes to raise more awareness. GIANT THANK YOUS! to Lucy and SewNews.com
I wish everyone a wonderful new year.
With warm Smiles to All,
Brenda
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