My husband and I followed with sadness and empathy as the results of Hurricane Harvey unfolded. Our prayers are with those affected by this disaster and the rescuers who have put themselves in harms way for others. It's both heartbreaking and inspiring.
Four years ago this month our hometown experienced what they later dubbed "Colorado's 100 Year Flood," which is basically a storm that has a one percent chance of occurring in any given year. It was devastating for those whose homes or businesses were flooded along the front range in Colorado, but we were all touched by it. We worked for weeks and months cleaning up after that flood. Here are a few of my words from that time:
Neighborhood in Longmont, September 2013
Photo Credit: Peyton Peterson
"It's interesting how memorable experiences in life are sometimes painful, sweet, and inspiring all at the same time. This week has been like that for me. A week ago much of northeastern Colorado experienced a devastating flood. It has affected all who live here and will continue to impact many lives for years to come. Unless you've seen a flood of this magnitude first hand, there's really no way one can comprehend the destruction. The amazing photos don't even do it justice because pictures are so one dimensional. It's hard to explain, but when you are in the middle of the devastation all your senses are painfully aware of the damage around you. You see it. You hear it. You smell it. You feel it. So terribly sad, yet...
I have seen amazing acts of selflessness, compassion, and kindness this last week. So many have helped flood victims in one way or another. It has been gratifying to see how the communities, churches, organizations and individuals have rallied around those most affected by the chaos. Helping in one way or another has been the norm, not the exception."
It is because of those experiences that we felt such sorrow as we watched the situation in Texas unfold. Plus, the situation in Texas is so much more widespread and devastating than it was in Colorado.
That's why, when I came upon a post on Facebook, I was happy to find this creative way to help a few affected by the flood. I know my teeny contribution is a drop in the bucket, but with lots of drops the bucket gets filled. A quilting shop in Texas, called Quilt Haus, and the charity quilting group, HUGS, have come together to supply donated quilts to victims of Hurricane Harvey. Fortunately, I just happen to have a bunch of already-made quilts in my closets. Today I mailed off three children's quilts that I had originally made for three of my grandchildren for Christmas. I figured they could be easily replaced, and I was so grateful to have a way to donate on such a personal level.
You too can donate. Just follow Quilt Haus on Facebook. There you will be able to get all the pertinent information on how to donate your blankets, quilts, fabric, or time (if you live near New Braunfels, Texas). They will be receiving and distributing donations throughout September.
There are so many ways to help those affected by Harvey, but since I have a number of followers who sew, I thought I'd pass this information along, because there might be some of you that would like to donate to this cause as well.
