Japan's Kids

I can't even imagine explaining to children what's happening in Japan right now. I keep the TV on minimally. I don't go into too much detail with the Doctor, and I don't want him to see too much on the news. He asked a lot about the flooding in Queensland, and afterwards he was scared. He vocalised this a number of times, and I had to try and allay those fears.

Consider This Fair Warning

Tonight Colin's destiny will be decided. You have until 9pm to bid on this beautiful bear, handmade by the very talented Jess of Teddy Bear's Wednesday. Colin is impeccably made, with amazing attention to detail. Heirloom quality peeps. AMAZING!

And if you weren't already across it, Georgie Love is generously donating 15% of profits for January to Queensland Flood Relief.

All you internetters, go forth and feel good about purchasing. And give everyone a high five while you're there.

EDIT:: CRIKEY! Jess has just alerted me to the fact the auction closes tomorrow night at 9pm (that's Monday for anyone stuck in a time warp a la PMM!).

Baking & Writing

Are you looking for other ways to help? Gosh I just keep coming across some of the most amazing things. People are so clever. Baked relief? Amazing

And check out the good folk over at Authors for Queensland. If you love writing, reading or are just a word nerd, then this is the place for you. Check it out homegirls!

Art 4 Heart

While I was off visiting Flossy-P, I read about Art 4 Heart.

Yet another remarkable way to help people affected by the Queensland floods - bid on one (or as many as you like, dear) artworks! It's really that simple!

So many brilliant artists, so many brilliant pieces to buy.

Beci Orpin

Nicole Tattersall

Flossy-P

Beth-Emily (who organised it!)

Benconservato

Catherine Campbell

and many more!

What's that? You like art and you have a heart? Well what are you doing here? Click over there and bid on your favourites!

Amazing Communities... & Colin & Raffles... OH MY!

It's already been a week since Toowoomba was hit by flash flooding. A week. It's still so fresh and raw, and for those directly affected, I'm sure doubly painful. Not just for those of Toowoomba, but for everyone affected by the floods. Each day I've spent long periods of time considering the impact of the floods. To be completely honest, I don't think I can even comprehend what it must be like, but I do try.

One of the things I've spoken about before is what I really love about blogging - the sense of community.

If you're looking for a way to help during this time, Toni of Make It Perfect has curated a very impressive list of auctions, giveaways etc that are all contributing to help people affected by the floods.

There are so many awesome crafters/bloggers rallying together to help. To raise awareness and to raise money. Bravo to each of you. Head over to Toni's and check out the list. Amazing.

For example - Teddy Bear's Wednesday - check out my friend Jess' bear, Colin. This bear is destined for great things. He's going to be an heirloom one day (heck he already is!) folks, just look at him. Jess is an incredibly talented crafty lady, and this bear, wow.

Or pop over to Lisa's The Red Thread. She is hosting an amazing raffle, first prize is worth over $1000, and generously Lisa has included 3 runner up prizes. You gotta be in it to win it!

Click on friends and make someone's world a bit brighter!

But please do check out the hive of activity over at Toni's. Well done to everyone involved.

A Lighter Shade of Grey

Things are feeling very subdued. I feel like everyone's a knocked-back shade of colour because of the floodings, the death, the loss. The widespread violence and unpredictability of nature.

I don't even know what to say at the moment. I can grapple my way through, and tell you that I feel shattered. And as a mum, I just feel incredibly moved by the story of Jordan Rice. It breaks me.

I want to help in bigger ways than just giving money. I want to be a body pushing mud out of the way so someone can restart their life. I want to do someone's washing. I want to give someone a warm bed, so they can feel a little safer, a little more comfortable. I want to help.

How are you feeling?

Like A Noticeboard

I've just been reading about the mixture of tragedy and triumphs throughout the Queensland floods. I feel completely shattered, and can't even imagine how those who have been affected are feeling right now. One million times worse.

I'm going to grow a list of ways you can help during this devastating time. There are so many great ways you can help, and as with the Victorian bushfires, it's going to be a long time 'til recovery.

PLACES TO CHECK OUT TO HELP PEOPLE AFFECTED BY THE QUEENSLAND FLOODS:

Mon Petit Poppet - toy drive

Make It Perfect- updating on Monday with lots of auctions

Chunky Chooky

Yardage Design

Ric Rac

Evaporaid (on this Friday)

Onya Magazine (details of event to be posted today)

Bondville

If you want to link to this post, or know of something that I should add, please let me know! Let's consider this a community pinboard of sorts.

How To Help?

While those of us who are not directly affected by the floods have the luxury of switching off to the Queensland floods, those who are affected - and that's a lot of our fellow Australians are living it every moment.

If you can't help with a monetary donation, all is not lost friends!

Can you craft? Do you have contacts? Even sending a friend of family member a text to say you are thinking of them is SUPPORT (though best to stay off the phone lines unless an emergency)!

Little things can make a difference to someone who is doing it tough.

You can also check out Handmade Helps Out for ideas on how to be involved. You don't have to be crafty for that, either (take this from my own experience).

Handmade Helps Out is now also on Facebook. (The direct link is not available right now, however if you're on Facebook just search for it and join).

image via the Herald Sun.

Operation Angel: Queensland Flood Appeal

Morning peeps!

I am hoping that someone reading this anywhere (UK, US, somewhere in Australia) might have some connexions we can use!

Jacqueline Pascarl of Operation Angel is currently looking for the following:

- gumboots (adult and children's sizes)
- mosquito nets
- mosquito coils
- trucks to deliver said goods

If you know anyone, please comment, or email me, or tweet Jacqueline Pascarl.

Also, if you're crafty, handy with a sewing needle, Pip has re-opened the Handmade Helps Out blog. Get involved if you can. There's nothing like community to break the isolation in these difficult times.