From a Mom to a Mom!

"Encourage one another," that's how she closes her writing on her blog!

Just over three years ago, I moved to Bakersfield not sure of whether or not I would really like it here.  I must admit that this hot, dirty, oil town has grown on me tremendously...and become a wonderful family town in my eyes!  A big part of my comfort here has come from a wonderful fabric shop that I must say is "my favorite."  As a seamstress, quilter and embroiderer, I have found a wonderful home for my fabric purchases here in Bakersfield and almost NEVER shop anywhere else.  This wonderful store is Strawberry Patches.  I love Strawberry Patches so much, I sometimes find myself there EVERY day of the week!

Over the past three years, I've come to know the owner (Suzanne) and staff at Strawberry Patches pretty well.  They have been there as somewhat of a "therapy" for this mom who has had such ups and downs trying to get and keep her son well.  They've listened to our hardships throughout Taylor's illness...and inquired about his health along the way...and they've always provided me the release that I've so needed by having the best selection of fabrics for me to create with.

Suzanne too is a mom...and a mom with a sick child.  Her son has ALS (Lou Gerig's Disease.)  She blogs on her blog "Notes from the Patch" about fabric, embroidery, family, faith and endless topics.  Reading her blog is instant encouragement.  Encouragment to be better, have fun, and enjoy life!  She is wonderful at sharing...and I appreciate every effort she gives to her family, her buisness and her clients.

Today, Suzanne gave me a donation of $300 towards my Nike Women's Marathon run and The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.  A generous gift, indeed...a gift from a mom to a mom!  You see, I know Suzanne has walked more difficult days than me as a mom, fighting for her son, and helping her family.  She feels my mission to give back and teach my young Taylor that we are blessed, no matter how hard each day is, how sick he may get, or how much better he feels right now.

So thank you, Suzanne!  You are someone to admire!

Encourage one another,

Carolyn