Bundles of Love

Several months ago, when I began the blog I told you about an Army Major Art La Flamme who started a project called IBOL, or Iraqi Bundles of Love.  His aim was to have quilters,sewers and knitters send a USPS flat rate shipping box filled with sewing and knitting supplies (fabric, thread, yarn, scissors, you name it) and he and his men would distribute them to Iraqi sewing co-ops in Northern Iraq. Here is Art with the first load!

Last year, Art got over 3500 boxes from all over the world as well as quilt stores who filled boxes if their patrons donated to the cause.  This year Art is home from Iraq, but still a true believer.  A friend in Iraq told him they would be able to take over this year--with a deadline of October 1, they received 900 boxes, and these are photos of the distribution.

Look at all that thread!

Interview on Iraq radio station

 Look at those cute clothes on the wall, all from donations!

I'm convinced it's not the quantity of the giving, it is what's at the heart of the giving that matters.  As we enter this holiday season (2 months till Christmas) think about the gifts you will give this year and make a difference in someone else's life.  Too many people at home in the U.S. and abroad suffer daily, and it's only when each one of us tries to make a difference, one person at a time, does fear disappear and understanding begins. 
Tomorrow I'll post on gifts from your kitchen to give for the holidays---until then, I hope your day is filled with joy.