a little help

Like so many others, I am heartbroken by the recent events in Japan.  In the face of such tragedy, it is difficult to find a way to help, but I have been inspired by the efforts of those around me.  The students in the middle school where I teach have raised $868 to donate to the Red Cross.  Many of my fellow crafters have also jumped into action.  A Tennessee grandma (and EtsyKids member) immediately organized a collection of handmade items for children to be sent to Japan with Save the Children.  And Namoo and Tarabu of the Baltimore Etsy Street Team are auctioning off a package of pillows and cuddlies to benefit the victims of the earthquake.  I had an opportunity to see these items first-hand and they are exquisite!  I loved that Namoo used Japanese linens in her pillows and that Tarabu's cuddlies had little bento-box inserts in homage to the country they are seeking to help.

I have decided that I will follow suit.  In my etsy shop, I have two bags made of Japanese designer Etsuko Furuya's gorgeous Echino Patchwork.  One is a lovely pleated Lucia handbag and the other is a large shopper.  I will donate 100% of the proceeds from the sale of these two items to Doctors Without Borders, an organization that has sent medical teams to support the tsunami and earthquake response efforts in Japan.

Please consider purchasing one of these items--not only will you be the owner of a chic bag, you will be supporting a worthy organization in its relief efforts.  And every little bit truly does make a difference.