Dolls flew in from Singapore yesterday from Wendy Shu

Wendy Shu has been a sweet and inspiring friend of mine for quite a while. He tatting and beading never fail to impress and amaze me. However, her tiny bead work on her Comfort Dolls are always a treat for me to see in hand. Yesterday I received 6 new dolls which I believe they call "Icicle dolls"? Wendy attached an inspiring message to each doll using pretty frosted words,and she wrapped each doll carefully in beautiful fiber paper and tied with a ribbon which I took care in returning them as they were after I photographed them. I wish you could see the detail of the crystals embedded on the dolls and beading detail. Thank you Wendy. You will warm 6 women's hearts very soon, including mine..:-)

Doll from Laura Campanelli

This cheerful Comfort Doll was donated by Laura Campanelli. The colorful sheer fabric tutu will certainly bring a smile along with the hand painted face and the heart warming card Laura attached. Thank you Laura for your Comfort Doll donation.

Giving back.....Monica Magness

Monica Magness is one of those gals you "meet" and something about her invites you to share and play. I'm not sure what it is, but she has it. I met her last year online, and enjoy keeping up with this artist.
Earlier I had sent off kits to the gals who replied to a post from my other blog, just for fun. Well, they have done amazing things with their kits. Monica not only made her altered girl kit into a wonderful sachet,but she donated it back to become a Comfort Doll. How thoughtful of you Monica. You are a gem! Please be warned, Monica's energy is contagious!!! While there, check out her PINK PROJECT!!!

Thank you for the owl ciggie and cool ceramic necklace.Love it!

Yes, more dolls arrived...these are from Rolanda Patterson

I am so lucky to get to see and feel each arrival......Rolanda Patterson of Texas donated these magnificent beaded Comfort Dolls.You can view her exquisite beaded doll she entered and was runner up here. I can't help smiling when I look at the green mermaid. She is so sweet with her beaded bodice and sequin and beaded tail. Her fin has the tiniest beads I have ever seen and the beads used for the shisha mirror face are yummy! I would love to know where I could buy them Rolanda. The turquoise bead mix used for hair just sets the whole creation off. The back of the tail was hand painted but wouldn't show up well enough to share. The little blue mermaid is beaded with fibers and her face is a button. These will fit nicely in a pocket for comforting. Thank you very much Rolanda for your donations. If you have a blog or site, I'd be happ to link to it. :-)

Two more dolls From Sylvie of France

Sylvie Le'andre of France sent us two more of her wonderful creations. These two embroidered kitties show they have big hearts and we know their creator does as well. These kitties are hand embroidered front and back with vintage lace as collars. The photo does not show the great detail these offer. Thank you again Sylvie for your great donations to the Comfort Doll Project.

Thank you for the ATC as well, you are so thoughtful.

New Comfort Doll arrivals!!! Bennie Harman

I don't know where to start. Many dolls have arrived and I haven't had a chance to share them until now. These may be out of order, but here they are....
Bennie Harman of Florida made these five adorable teddies for our project.

She learned of the Comfort Doll Project through Pam Kelloggs' Blog. These colorful cuties will certainly be a treasure when received. Thank you so very much Bennie.

WOW! 15th dozen sent to Safe Harbor in Greenville S. Carolina

This is our 15th dozen comfort dolls on their way to Safe Harbor shelter in South Carolina. I was contacted on Friday by Becky and wanted to make a few dolls myself to include. Theses will be mailed tomorrow morning. The doll makers included are: Adria of IL, Annie Bernstein of MD, and Pat Winter of IN. Thank you again for your lovely donations.

Comfort Doll Project interview by Linda Walsh

I have a huge smile this morning...I hope all of you do after you read what Linda did.

Linda Walsh recently interviewed me for the Comfort Doll Project. If you ever had any questions about the project, Linda pretty well covered it in the interview. I hope you read it, she has posted it throughout many of her blogs and sites, and she is definitely the queen of blog!!!! She offers a huge amount of information tying the crafting and art community together. Quite a busy lady and such a dear heart to help spread the word about the Comfort Doll Project. A huge hug and smile topped with THANK YOU Linda! Go ahead everyone.....read and enjoy!
Linda's Blog
Doll's Blog
I l ove crafts and crafts blog
The best free crafts articles blog
Gray is beautiful
The Dollie storage room blog
Tips from the blogging Queen
Dollie and crafts plugboard
Crafting for all plugboard

Three Comfort Dolls from Annie Bernstein of MD

Annie Bernstein of Maryland wanted to contribute to the Comfort Doll Project and wasn't sure if her needlework would qualify. Well, you be the judge! Annie made three cross stitch dolls and they are fabulous. What treasures these will be in the hands of their lucky recipients. Annie wished to share the names of the designers of the patterns she used for her dolls.
The designers are : Chinese doll-DMC, Orange doll-Le Petit Monde de Vavi, and the fairy doll is from Pine Glen Designs.

Annie contacted Lorrie Ramsay of Pine Glen designs for permission to share the doll she used Lorrie's pattern for. Lorrie took interest in the project and contacted me to submit a story on the Comfort Doll Project.

You can read the article in her Newsletter, just click on Newsletter and "New". It starts on page one and continues on page four. Thank you Lorrie for helping us spread the word, and to let anyone interested know that they do not have to be a doll maker to contribute.

It is such a pleasure to meet and work with such wonderful people. Thank you all for spreading the word and for all you do.

Continued support..... women spreading the word

Shellie Wilson of craftbits.com has added the Comfort Doll Project to the Charity page. Scroll to the bottom and you will see us there among several other wonderful charity projects.

You may want to bookmark the site for future project ideas, they offer such an assortment of projects for any experience level.

Thank you so much Shellie for helping spread the word and inform other's of the Comfort Doll Project.

Exciting News!!!!

Annie Bernstein emailed asking if she could contribute a cross stitch comfort doll . Annie used a pattern from Pine Glen Designs and loved the idea of Comfort Dolls and wanted to contribute. I told her it would absolutely be accepted and appreciated. She then contacted Lorrie Ramsay of Pine Glen Designs for permission to use her design.

Lorrie also found interest in the project and wanted to write an article which she informed me was available for viewing last night.She included it in her Newsletter . I hope you all go check it out and browse her wonderful site. Thank you Annie and Lorrie for contributing and helping spread the word of the Comfort Doll Project. A wonderful start to the New Year.

14th dozen Comfort Dolls off to Missouri

The Green Hills Womens shelter will receive the 14th dozen comfort dolls in Trenton, Missouri.The donors of these 12 dolls are: Sammy Stafney(3)(OR),Darlene Wilkinson(VA),Adria(3)(IL),Pam Kellogg(IL),Linda Themer(3)(IN),and Rosy of France.

Thank you all so much for your beautiful creations.

Lucky 13th dozen going to Florida

The Shelter for abused women in Naples Florida will receive our lucky 13th dozen!!! These dolls will be mailed tomorrow. The creators of this group are:Linda Themer,(2)(IN)
Pam Kellogg(IL), Pat Winter(IN)Bettsi McComb(CA),Adria(2)(IL),Linda Boudreau(Canada),Terri Takacs(CT),Christina Crawford(CO),Caroline Donval (France)and Gail Pierce(CA)

Thank you all for your beautiful contributions.

Comfort Doll from Rosy of France

Isn't she a cheerful doll? You cannot look at this doll without a smile. She is from Rosy of France. Rosy ,thank you for donating this lovely doll to the Comfort Doll Project. I also wanted to thank you for the pretty fibers and thimble, that was so thoughtful and sweet of you.

Happy Holidays to all

Happy Holidays to each of you . Enjoy your families and your festivities however you celebrate. Thank you for donating 12 dozen (plus 4)Comfort Dolls this year!!!!!!!!
You have shared your love with 148 women who needed a hug.
You Rock!!!!!!!!

Thank you from Mid-Valley of Salem OR

The Mid-Valley Women's Crisis Service from Salem Oregon were the recipients of the 11th dozen Comfort Dolls and here is their letter to thank you all. The staff member's even signed it.
Click on the letter for a larger view,and feel the warm fuzzies you have shared.

Comfort Doll from Bettsi McComb of CA

Bettsi McComb is a "tender hearted dollmaker" from CA. She has an etsy shop named,Tender Arts Studio, where her beautiful originals are offered when available.

Bettsi created a delicate embroidered doll with the tiniest perfect stitches and a simple word of encouragement embroidered on the back side which reads,"BLOSSOM". That is our wish for the women who receive our dolls. To find inspiration and strength in our message and blossom.

Thank you Bettsi for your Comfort Doll donation. She will be among the lucky 13th dozen as you had hoped. I know whomever receives her will be the lucky one.

Happy Holidays!

Teddy by Christina Crawford

This darling teddy comfort doll arrived from Tina Crawford of Colorado. Tina is a member of "Expression Studio", a group of mixed media artists that have joined in the Comfort Doll Project to spread smiles and warm hearts. Thank you again Expression Studio members.

Tina attached a message which I must share with you.The tag reads, "This little bear is a gift to remind you of just how precious you are. Survive,Strive,Thrive". Tina, I think you have summed up the message we hope to express with our Comfort Dolls. Thank you for your time,talent,and love. It is appreciated. Your teddy is so soft and sweet, I know someone will adore it. Happy Holidays.

Comfort Dolls by Linda Themer of IN

Linda Themer of IN (Hi fellow Hoosier!) sent a box filled with six of these delightful winged Comfort Dolls with such sweet faces. They flew into my heart,and soon on to ladies who need to feel their powerful message of strength and hope for a bright future. Linda said for me to keep one, but I am torn,knowing what pleasure they will bring to a woman not as fortunate to be surrounded with such extraordinary women as you all are. I may keep one around for a while,to enjoy. Thank you very much, that was awfully generous of you to think of me. And for the record, it is you,the donors who are angels :-).

Linda offers original Fiber and Textile designs along with Mosaic jewelry on etsy. I love to shop Etsy for handmade gifts and cool supplies.

Comfort Doll from Darlene (Hugger) Wilkinson of VA

Darlene Wilinson who friends refer to as (Hugger), which sounds like a delightful nick name to me, sent this Comfort Doll. Darlene is part of an online group named"Expression Studio" where members got together and created Comfort Dolls and they are all arriving and keeping me delighted with each package I open. Again, I want to thank Expression Studio members for taking on this project.

Darlene has attached a statement of her Art and an inspiring message which I would like to share with you. "Dolls for me are expression...most of my work,no matter what medium is an expression of hope and happiness,also a discovery for the person who gets a doll to go deeper and find meaning for themselves. My hope is that the journey with the doll brings to you whatever you might need.

Darlene, your "Art" is beautiful and unique. I hope you all can see the detail in this doll. Her chest has a message for her recipient which is covered with mesh and beaded around the rim. The words,"Believe,and Laugh" are contained inside. A metal tag which reads,"Live out Loud", is certainly good advice for all. Her face is Fimo with a peaceful expression,which the recipient will certainly feel when she accepts this Comfort Doll. Thank you Darlene for donating to the Comfort Doll Project.

Comfort Doll from Miss Donval

I am so sorry Ms Donval, I cannot read French and am not sure what your first name is. How embarrassing. I want to add your name so if you could email it,(angell100@comcast.net) I would greatly appreciate it. The French language is written so beautifully, but I just cannot seem to make out the letter's. I apologize.
I would also like to link to your website or blog if you wish to share.

Your beautiful doll arrived smiling and instantly making me smile. Such beautiful colors. I love mermaids and know her recipient will adore her. Her face is very sweet,great job. Thank you for being a part of the Comfort Doll project.

Sammy Stafney comfort doll donations

These cheerful little Comfort Dolls arrived from Sammy Stafney of Oregon. Sammy is a bead and fabric artist who states that her creations are,"Created with a Loving spirit". Yes Sammy, I would agree with that statement. The love and care you put into your Comfort dolls certainly shine through in each smile you give them,every detail ,bead, and stitch.

Each Comfort doll I have had the pleasure and honor to hold and view from all of you donors can't help but warm my heart, and I can imagine the difference these have made and will make in their recipients hands. Thank you again for spreading love to our "sister's" in despair.

SISTERHOOD
Different sizes, shapes, and colors yet, we have some of the same problems. Male problems, children problems, mood swings, mental and physical problems, you name them, we have them. We comfort each other, we get on each other’s nerves. Sistahs assisting Sistahs, who are like us? You give me your shoulder to cry on, I give you my helping hands. You give me advice and strength, I give you a listening ear. I give you my love and support, you give me your friendship.
by EVELYN HALL

12th Dozen Comfort Dolls going to Texas!!!

I am sitting here smiling!!!!
I just spoke to Debbie from ,"The Bridge over Troubled Waters" in Pasadena Texas and she accepted the 12th dozen Comfort Dolls which will be mailed tomorrow. They will receive them before Christmas,YES!!!!

Sometimes it is hard to find homes for our dolls for one reason, most shelter's have over 100 occupants at a time and some shelter's do not want to give to one and not all. This is understandable,even though they are meant for the very souls whose faces have a blank look of hopelessness and their spirits have been broken. I do understand their concerns and I too would feel uncomfortable if I couldn't give to all who seek shelter from abuse. However, I am determined to find homes in every state for our dolls.

I thank those of you who have formed groups to join in this project and for those dear hearts who have donated this year,and to those contemplating a donation. I love reading your comments and especially love how you enjoy making these to give. You truly are special ladies and you make a difference in your actions. I appreciate you very much. Happy Hoildays .

Comfort Dolls from Gail Pierce

In the mail today were four Comfort Dolls created by Gail Pierce of California. Gail is a member of an online group named ExpressionStudio ,and several of them got together and created dolls for the Comfort Doll Project where we send to shelters around the country for battered women in transition to warm their hearts and let them know she is being thought of with these tokens of love and compassion.
As you can see, they are works of fiber ART. Gail used a woven technique for two of her dolls in cheerful fibers, and hand painted and embellished her fabric for the two thinner ones. Very cool designs which I had never seen. These will be a delight when received. Gail was concerned over the size of the woven dolls however, the head and feet fold nicely and will fit within the 6" requirement.....but, you know rules and I do not mix well, so either way, they would be accepted, passed on, and loved.
Thank you so much Gail for your lovely and thoughtful creations for the Comfort Doll Project. I am thrilled your group wanted to join in. Thank you for the lovely fabric too, you know that will be used!

More Comfort Dolls from Linda Boudreau

Linda Boudreau from Canada sent two more of her adorable kitties and a beaded doll for the Comfort Doll Project. Linda embellishes her kitties with silk ribbon embroidered flowers and adds cute thin whiskers and beads for eyes then dresses them with a bow for their new owners. Such a cute pattern Linda. The doll has beautiful metallic beading and a hand painted fimo face which she also embellished with beading. Than you so much Linda for your wonderful contributions to our project.

Linda has interesting posts on her blog about the pleasure she gets in making Comfort Dolls. Reading posts from donors really warms my heart and certainly puts a happy tear in my eye.

Bunnies and bears and puppies...oh my!!!!

This box arrived and when I opened it I almost fell over. Pam's mother, Adria created 26 comfort "bundles" and a doll for the comfort Doll Project. I see where Pam gets her energy and creativity. My goodness. This takes us into the 14th dozen after the 12th and 13th have found homes. 2008...here we come! Adria, I am speechless at the moment. This box was overwhelming to view. I cannot imagine the time you are spending on this project, and I am so grateful you view it as a worthy one. Thank you doesn't seem enough.

I wish you all could see the detail Adria adds to each "bundle". I call the bundles because Adria wraps each doll in a quilted blanket and adds a charm and flowers along with other embellishments and each one is different. Just amazing.

Crazy patch cat and door hangers from Pam

Pam Kellogg has struck again! She has sent two delightful door hangers and one of her gorgeous crazy quilted cats for Comfort Doll recipients to enjoy. Thank you for your continued support Pam. You are a wild woman who must stitch while sleeping. Hugs to you.

Comfort Doll from Velda of Canada

This sweet and cheerful Comfort Doll flew in from Canada. She was created by Velda Stanley.Velda used a purple velvet fabric which she embellished with various fibers,ribbon flowers, purple curly hair,beads and charms. She embroidered a very sweet face to her doll which will be of comfort to her new owner. Thank you for donating a comfort doll to the project. It is greatly appreciated.

Looking for Eliane,Fanchon Mandras,Linda Barraclough,Christine of France

Calling for help please!!!!!

If anyone knows Linda Barraclough of Vic AU,Elian from France,Fanchon Mandras of France, and Christine of France, please have them email me angell100@comcast.net. Or if you have their addresses,please send them to me. I misplaced the envelopes and need to send them their charm please. Thank you so much.

11th dozen Comfort Dolls going to Mid-Valley Women's Crisis in OR

I am happy to announce that our 11th dozen Comfort Dolls will be received by the Mid-Valley Women's Crisis center in Salem Oregon. These will be mailed tomorrow. I am happy to be able to find them a home during the Holidays when things can seem really hopeless for those going through transition. Hopefully these inspiring "hugs" will warm their hearts and encourage them that the new yea can be much brighter for them. This group was created by Ati Ham Sas of Norway,Christine of France(2),Freda of Illinois,Pat Winter of Indiana,and Terri Takacs(7) of Connecticut.I want to thank all of the donors again for your contributions.

What a powerful post from Nathalie L of France

The two new comfort dolls from Christine of France learned of the Comfort Doll Project from a post on Nathalie's blog. I was browsing blogs and scrolled down on Nathalie's blog to find this post which made me cry,yet made me see how black and white abuse is. Be prepared for the truth. Scroll to the bottom and view several videos from You tube if you want to see reality for some women like the ones we give a token of love to through the comfort dolls.

It gives me more reason to spread the word about the Comfort Doll project, to make others more aware of the problem of abuse and to show the recipients of our dolls, who are fortunate to make the step to get to a shelter and change their lives and say, "I've had enough, I want to live".

Thank you Nathalie for this rude awakening this morning. I wish I could hide a magical key to a new life inside every doll I ship out. I can only keep positive thoughts in knowing women who receive our dolls knows there is something out there greater for her and she knows women support her decision to go forward and find it.

My heart aches for those who can't find the strength or supporting advice to get out. I wish there were commercials for abusive situations like there are commercials for car sales. Maybe then this would allow others to know this happens in every neighborhood,behind polished golden doors and broken wooden screen doors alike. Most domestic abuse takes place without neighbors or even family knowing about it in fear of the victims life. Fear from a coward who can only control by force,not intellect.

With Thanksgiving just passing, I can say I am so very thankful for having such women spend their time thinking of those who need our support and encouragement. The dolls may be silly to some,not worth the time to others,but to the maker and recipient,and to me, it means so very much more. Thank you all and may you continued to be blessed.

Comfort Dolls from Christine of France

Christine from France created these two truly unique Comfort Dolls. Her son named the blue one,"Polynesian doll", and the other,"Japanese doll", which I think he is right on! The Polynesian doll has unbelievable beading that resembles dripping lace and she has full,flowing hair bejeweled with gold and purple beads. The Japanese doll has an adorable outfit which is tucked in back and her hair is so cute. You did an amazing job Christine. Click on the pictures to see larger image. They are very delicate and detailed. Thank you so much for your Comfort Doll contribution.

Christine's beautiful cross stitched greeting card will be framed. What a sweet picture of mother swan with babies swimming in a pond with iris and cat tails. The card around the insert has a dragonfly too!!!! I love it. Thank you.

Christine: if you read this, could you send me your last name and a blog or web site if you have one? Thanks.

Another comfort doll from Ati Ham Sas

Another sweet comfort from Ati of Norway. She arrived at a time of hustle and bustle,but when I opened to expose this delight,I took a moment to calm down and enjoy this beautiful peaceful looking creation. Oh what a pleasure she will bring to her new owner. Thank you Ati. Another sweet doll .

Letter from DAWN for Comfort Doll delivery

This letter from DAWN arrived yesterday. They loved the dolls. Thank you all for making this possible As soon as I get a shelter lined up, the 11th dozen dolls will be sent. I may work on dolls and try to collect the 12th dozen to be sent before Christmas. That would be a nice goal to set. One dozen shelter's enjoying our Comfort Dolls in 2007!

Bears from Terri Takacs...oh my!!!!

Who can say this five times fast?
Terri Takacs' Ten TerrificTeddies".

Terri Takacs made ten of these soft,adorable bears for the Comfort Doll Project. They are so sweet. These will go out before Christmas,and what great timing to receive a gift of love. Thank you Terri for these special gifts to share. They are just perfect and so cuddly looking. You are a sweetie!

Sorry it took so long to post, blogger wouldn't let me in this blog????????

Comfort doll news update!!!!

I wanted to catch all of you up on what's been happening in the Comfort Doll Project world......

Jo has received more beautiful dolls for the Comfort Doll project in NZ. You must take a peek.

Last night I updated the Comfort Doll page on my website. Please email me with any corrections.

I mailed out the "charm to thank you" yesterday but still need these addresses which can be emailed to me at angell100@comcast.net. I have bits of some of the address,but want to make sure they arrive to you.
1.Eliane of France
2.Fanchon Mandras of France
3.Sammy Stafney or Oregon
4. Linda Barraclough...I think I am missing some of your address.

I could only find 50 of these charms, so I thought it was a great way to acknowledge the first 50 donors. Imagine that, 50 donors, and many have contributed several dolls. Mind blowing!!!!!

I also have received many emails apologizing for not contributing more often. I want each of you to know that it is wonderful to receive just one from you,and if you do want to contribute more,please know there is no deadline. If you feel the creative doll muse,then go for it but please never feel pushed to send dolls. I collect them as they come and off they go when I reach 12. No hurry,no worry. Ok? I appreciate, and know the recipients appreciate the thought behind your efforts. Thank you all so much.

If you don't see your name on the sidebar of this blog, please let me know. It is an oversight and I want everyone listed,with or without a blog. Also, if you have a website or blog that isn't shown, please email it to me. I love to advertise when I can . This helps so many who may not stumble across your site. It just helps our creative blogging community grow!

Have a creative and sunny day!!!!

Sunday morning tasks....

I am spending this Sunday morning printing the thank you notes for the first 50 women who have participated in the Comfort Doll Project.

I was a bit upset to discover my Print Shop program is not working and keeps freezing. I can't create the cards I wanted, but in WORD, I at least got to say what I wanted. Sorry about that.

I was so excited to find the perfect silver charm to show my appreciation a few weeks ago. I hope to find something just as unique for the next 50 donors.

I know it is unnecessary to send something and you know how I feel about each of you, but I just wanted to let you know how special you are and how your donations have really brought comfort to the recipients of domestic abuse. It is just a tiny token from my heart. I am waiting for 8 address confirmations,but all will be mailed on Tuesday because I don't think the post office is open tomorrow. I will be transporting them in my new and beautiful tote made by my dear friend Terri.
By the way, if you want a feminine tote like mine, she still has a few in her Etsy shop,and I must say they are very,very reasonably priced. I hope I didn't embarrass you Terri, but I love my tote and want other's to have a chance to own one too.

Again, I thank you for all of the wonderful dolls that have been sent to shelter's. You make hearts sing!

10th dozen to Bethany House in Somerset,Kentucky

I was waiting to finish embellishing dolls to include in the 10th dozen but I have decided since we are already there,to go ahead and send them off. This will give me time to make several for the future donations.
Here we have the 10th dozen Comfort Dolls. The 9th dozen was collected and distributed in New Zealand with the help of Jo Newsham. Thanks again Jo!!!!!
The donors of these dolls are:
Fanchon Mandras (France)
Pam Kellogg (Illinois USA) 2
Freda Butler (Illinois USA) 2
Linda Baudreau (Canada) 2
Eliane (France)
Sylvie Leandre (France)
Linda Barraclough (Vic Australia)
Mesuline (England)
Carol Anne Conway (England)

These will be mailed tomorrow to Bethany House Abuse Shelter in Somerset,KY.
Thank you all for the continued support,comments, and donations to the Comfort Doll Project. You are responsible for many smiles.

Comfort Doll from Carol A Conway of England

This beautiful embroidered comfort doll made it's way from England. Carol Anne Conway hand embroidered this exquisite doll using fine silk and metallic threads. The vine with floral pattern is so pretty. Thank you very much Carol for donating this beauty.