The "Special Project"

Hello, and happy Friday! I have finally finished the project I have been working on. Nothing like waiting until the last minute.... I'll pick the kids up from school and then we'll deliver the tree for the fundraiser.

A family I know from work lost their father from pancreatic cancer and they now hold a yearly fundraiser. It's a combination of a "walk, run, wag" and a basket raffle, among other things. They do a wonderful job and raise a lot of money to help those fighting the battle with cancer. They are amazing people, so gracious and thankful to those who donate to help the cause. In reality, it is I who is thankful to be given the opportunity to help.

Cancer has had a profound impact on my life. I lost my Grandma a little over 4 years ago, while at the same time my Dad was waiting to undergo treatment. He didn't want to tell Grandma and have her worry. My Dad has been one of the lucky ones; after 2 different types of cancer, 2 major surgeries, and a long round of radiation he is doing well. This experience has changed me in ways that are hard to explain. I am guessing it is like that for many.

This tree is dedicated to those who are currently fighting the battle, to those who have won the battle and to those who have lost.... God bless them all.

Now, a little bit about the tree. The first photo is "Little Flurry", the second is "Snowflake" and the last is the entire tree. It's a 3 foot tall pencil tree and Snowflake and the Little Flurries are handmade. It was a family effort; the kids like to help with stuffing and painting the wooden snowflakes. Even DH helps! This year he had to get out his drill to make the hole in the trunk larger after I had the great idea to use hot glue to hold the tree in place.... After applying the hot glue, the tree wouldn't go on the spike. This kind of mishap is common, but part of the fun! This one is a bit more primitive than most I have done; I have done many different themes over the years. Cats, dogs, angels, santas, and lots of assorted snowmen....

Tips and tricks:

Many times when you use hot glue on a project, you will see those annoying "glue threads". A quick fix for this is to blast them with your blow dryer. This will cause the glue to melt and then you can't see it. I learned this while attending a demonstration given by a floral designer. Try it, it works!

Thanks for stopping by today!

Angela