But Seriously...

(Sorry. No knitting content this time.)

Like many of you, I have been closely following news reports of the devastation, despair and lawlessness that have engulfed the areas hardest hit by Hurricane Katrina. Admittedly, this is of special interest to me because half of my relatives and close family friends are from the flooded, powerless areas of Louisiana. My Mom has been trying all week to make sure the people we know and love are safe. As I write this, there are two families we're still waiting to hear from - one of whom lived in the flood-demolished area of East New Orleans. We believe her house may be gone. We hope she was evacuated in time.

Instead of feeling powerless or waiting for the government to wade in with assistance, I want encourage you to follow the lead of so many other everyday people. Give whatever you can to save lives and offer hope. However you do it, please just do it.

One of the unique ways the crafting community is pitching in is through Crafters United. Their goal is to raise $10,000 through sales of handcrafted items and direct donations to give to the American Red Cross.

Not only am I concerned about human life in the hurricane's aftermath, as an animal lover, I am also heartbroken over the plight of sick or abandoned pets. They need help, too - especially now that city animal shelters have had to close down. The ASPCA has a way for you to help feed and care for animals in the affected areas.

Thanks.