National Doll Day - 2017

The first Sunday in August of 2017 is already here! Goodness gracious! For over six decades, the love of dolls has been a huge part of my life. If you are reading this, I would imagine you have also found joy and comfort through dolls!

I recently discovered, and am thrilled to share with everyone, the “Doll Project” for our Native Americans living on reservations in South Dakota!

Although the article is from 2011, Give a Doll for Christmas it is an ongoing project! This article provides lots and lots of fabulous information and links. Actually, the entire blog is a worthwhile read! Also, I would encourage you to join the Facebook group: Sew For Kids Volunteers and you’ll find a bunch more information about the 2017 Doll Project – among other focuses for our Native Americans!

Will you donate a doll? An outfit for the doll to wear would also be a great thing!

Beyond Excited

I’m so excited! I’ve never been a “Classroom Mom” before!

Although I know better to be the Mom because life will get in the way and I don’t want to disappoint, but I can ~ and did ~ volunteer to be the “assistant” mom!

This is the second year the “Room Parent Program” has been done for grades K – 5^th at the Marty Indian School in South Dakota. Because it is long distance, actual hugs can’t be given. According to Google Maps from my ranch to there is about 970 miles – one way! Rather it is a snail mail experience, sending goodies and handmade items all wrapped in loving prayers and hugs.

The Facebook group Sew for Kids Volunteers led me to this opportunity of a lifetime. I am humbled to now be the Assistant Classroom Mom for the Second Grade!

Never having a second grader and not knowing what kids are like at that age (and what that “age” might be as it’s been a long time since my nieces were in 2^nd grade!) I put this news out on my Facebook wall, asking for clues! I received some great input! Thanks to all!

My sister reminded me, everything I create can have an educational foundation… like words embroidered on items to reinforce what they are learning…

But what will they be learning in 2^nd grade?

I took my laptop into town and downloaded the Content Standards for South Dakota (like the Texas TEKS). Something within their list caught my eye ~ the Oceti Sakowin Essential Understandings and Standards.

What a wealth of information! I will re-read several times, to learn more truths about our Native Americans.

I came back home and ordered two books listed within the resources (oh, I wish I could buy them all….)

The Lakota Way: Stories & Lessons for Living by Joseph Marshall III

The Great Race of the Birds and Animals by Paul Goble

From what I’ve read so far, I truly believe everyone, every child in the U.S.A., should read Mr. Marshall’s book, The Lakota Way: Stories & Lessons for Living.

It’s beyond Powerful.