During church today, several of the prayers and hymns were centered on the theme of being more giving and loving. It inspired me to get started on a project I've been excited about ever since I heard of it a few days ago.
As you know, I recently learned to make baby slings. It's been like no other project I've ever attempted; I instantly understood the instructions, the needle glided smoothly over the fabric, and in just minutes I sat holding something that can bring peace into a stormy parent-child relationship. I feel so lucky to have had the use of slings during Suzi's fussy "fourth trimester" phase. A ride next to our hearts in the sling would often calm her when no amount of rocking or bouncing would.
Unfortunately, not all women have $50 to buy a sling, and most of them don't have a sewing machine either. This is why I was so glad to read about No Mother Left Behind: a volunteer organization which collects donated slings and redistributes them to mothers who need them. Just think--this organization could be the difference between an overwhelmed mother shaking her baby in frustration, or finding relief in soothing the baby in her sling.
They accept gently-used slings, slightly imperfect seconds from companies, and hand-made slings from individuals. I am waiting to hear back for more info on how to contribute (like what sizes they need most), but I am hoping to make some slings to donate. From what I've seen at work, I feel quite certain there are mothers right here in our community who need slings, too.
God has provided the skill, an outlet, and even fabric. Weeks ago I bought gobs of fabric for just a couple of dollars at a yard sale; at the time, I didn't know what it was for. Yesterday I found a roll of sturdy decorator fabric (at least four slings' worth) for $3 at Goodwill. I know there is more out there if I just look!
I think it would be fun to have a sling-making workshop. I don't know when or where, but we could bring our sewing machines, teach others to make slings, and make a bunch of them together! Let me know if you are interested!
P.S. To see how Suzi hurt my feelings at church today, read my post over at Mothering Without a Manual.
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6 comments:
I love how within a very few days not only have you learned how to make slings, but that you are already discovering ways in which you can use your newfound talent to help others. Suzi has a great role model...and mommy! (Despite the flipped hand at church this morning! ;) Been there!)
I have a sewing machine...it would be fun to do a workshop. I would love to help.....the time isn't great at the moment...probably won't be until I get back from Rhode Island and New Hampshire. I still want to work on the beaded memory cards for miscarriage and infant loss. Let's get started on that too! :)
We DO need to do that, Vicky. I put it on the back burner because, honestly, I was worried about finding an acceptable way to distribute them.
What an awesome idea! I have a sewing machine, too. Whenever I get home from this deployment I'd love to get together!
Good for you, what a way to seve a be a great role model for your child as well!
I have made a couple since you posted the pattern. I was even able to put a pocket and loop (for toys or keys) on one! This sounds like a great idea...I'd definitely be interested :-)
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