Snowflakes and Cocoa

"If you want others to be happy, practice compassion.  If you want to be happy, practice compassion."  ~ Dalai Lama

Brrrr........I hope you are enjoying your week and this chilly winter weather.  I read the loveliest post from Lauren at Pure Style Home today.  She so eloquently wrote what most of us are feeling about the traumatic events that took place at Sandy Hook Elementary.  I know people feel saddened, confused and heartbroken over these senseless acts. It is too large a horror for our brains to process and I am struggling with  sorrow and fear myself.  I prayed for these families as hard as I could during Christmas Eve service but somehow still felt a sense of helplessness.  I believe healing and strength begin with positive action.  This action came in the form of snowflakes.

As I am sure you know, the students of the Sandy Hook will return to a new building in January.  Volunteers  are trying to make the school beautiful and welcoming for the children upon their return.  They are asking people to make and send snowflakes to create a place of winter splendor.

"When school resumes for Sandy Hook, it will be in a new building. Parent-volunteers are working to ensure that the students are welcomed back by a winter wonderland with the entire school decorated with as many unique snowflakes as possible. We encourage senders to be as creative as possible, remembering that no two snowflakes are alike. Please make and send snowflakes by January 12, 2013." 

Please send all snowflakes and donations to:  

Connecticut PTSA 

60 Connolly Parkway 

Building 12, Suite 103 

Hamden, CT 06514

So, the girls and I are snuggled by the fire with our hot cocoa, scissors and paper making as many snowflakes as we can.  It is a small gesture, however, one where we can feel as if we have helped create something beautiful for the surviving children and honor the precious little souls taken that day.  I love the symbolism of the snowflakes.  Thank you Lauren for your compassionate post.  It has helped the gals in my house feel a little less helpless...and a little less sad.

**Tutorial available at How About Orange**

P.S.  Before I go, I need to share the most deee-licious hot cocoa with you.  I found Abuelita Mexican Hot Chocolate at my regular grocery store but it tastes so gourmet, you surely wouldn't believe it!  It is a warm, comforting cup of love.   

via The Gracious Pantry