Handmade for Life

Progress?

2011-11-03T07:16:00.000-07:00

In Which History Is Not Actually A March of Progress

reposted from The Common Room by TheHeadGirl

The Toltecs in ancient Mexico sacrificed their children to a rain god... presumably considering the exchange of their child's life worth the benefit (rain) to society.

The Vikings practiced female infanticide ~ apparently considering a daughter's life less valuable than that of a son. Better family life by killing a daughter...

Ancient customs in parts of Africa (and sometimes still carried out today) demand the murders of undesirable babies (including some with special needs). These babies are counted as undesirable for the peace and and prosperity of their families or community.

We reel at the ignorance and cruelty. We pat ourselves on the shoulder. We're too enlightened to even contemplate benefiting society by killing our children; we know it doesn't work like that.

Or do we?

A 1995 study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that a little over 17% of women who might consider abortion would be more likely to do it if the fetal tissue (ie, their baby) could be used for medical purposes.

A 1991 poll published in Time magazine found that 18% saw no problems with "conceive and intentionally abort a fetus so the tissue can be used to save another life."

Those stats, and more like them, here.

A mother is supposed to protect the life of her child no matter what society's supposed "needs" are... and we are in a dangerous, dangerous position when we forget that.

Give Me Music and Life

2011-10-27T16:46:00.000-07:00

It is so heartening to stumble across pro-life shops while browsing on Etsy. Megan is the heart and talent behind Heart Strings 4 Life and donates a percentage of the proceeds to Pro-Life causes.

Her necklaces are made from up-cycled violin strings, hand braided (a tough task) and accessorized with various glass pendants. Beautiful Christmas present idea.

200 million

2011-08-26T17:15:00.000-07:00

How much is 200 million?

200 million pennies would fill 9 school buses to overflowing. If you wanted to count to 200 million, and you were really ambitious and didn't take any breaks to eat, sleep, or go to the bathroom, it would take you just over 12 ½ years. But what does 200 million children look like?

Jesus’ heart was for children everywhere He went – blessing, defending, and loving them, and He calls us to do the same thing. When He called a little child to Him to stand among His disciples, He told them that they had to become like little children in order to enter the kingdom of Heaven, that whoever humbles himself like this child would be the greatest in the Kingdom…and the very next thing He said was "And whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me.” (Matthew 18:5)

Just a few verses later He says, "Beware that you don't despise a single one of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven their angels are always in the presence of my heavenly Father." (v. 10) Throughout the Bible, God is defending children and calling his people to defend the orphan. Over and over. God cares about the vulnerable enough to repeat Himself.

So, what does 200 million children look like? They look like what the entire population of the United States was in 1969. They look like enough kids to fill over 3 ½ million schoolbuses – and to give you an idea of how much that is, if you lined those buses up from bumper to bumper they would stretch over 20 thousand miles, or the distance from Barrow, AK to Tampa, Florida...five times.

Here’s the issue - In just this year, about 200 million is the number of children who will be despised throughout the world – they will either be left as orphans without a family of their own to love and care for them, or they will die as a result of an abortion. 200 million little lives with their own giftings, callings, and futures - image-bearers of the King who created them lovingly with a purpose – Who, if He were standing with them, would pick them up and say, “you look like Me.” But will they ever realize their calling? Will they know their Savior if that future is squandered on the streets of a third world country while they try to fend for themselves? Or what if they don’t even make it that far – if their life is snuffed out before birth because they were conceived in a society that deemed them inconvenient and expendable? Maybe you heard recently that 40% of pregnancies in New York City end with abortion – and for black babies, that number jumps to 60%. That kind of math is easy to visualize – six out of ten babies. These are “the least of these” that Jesus spoke of.

But He has not left them without defense. He calls us to do what He did – love, bless, and defend them. There have been pockets of His people doing this all along, but it hasn’t been enough, because somehow the numbers of unloved, uncared for, and undervalued children – image bearers of the King – have reached numbers that we can’t easily visualize.

The calling is out of our comfort zone, but now is the time for everyone who calls themselves a follower of Jesus to step up and say, “NOT ON MY WATCH! We will stop this injustice.” Many of us are probably already doing something – but we are being called to more, to stretch our comfort zone. Maybe He is calling your attention to something new that you haven’t considered before. Maybe He’ll call you to adopt, or to help another family with the financial challenge of adopting. Maybe He’ll call you to missions or volunteering at a pregnancy center. Maybe you’ll want to be involved in the 24/7 prayer vigils for the 40 Days of Life campaign. Maybe you just know an apathetic voter who needs to be challenged. We allow God to move us in new ways, and suddenly an unfathomably huge situation has hope – because the situation is not too big for Him. 200 million children is a lot, but He wants to use His people to save them. Will we be a cruise ship, or a battleship?

Let your hands be strong! Don’t give up, don’t give in, and don’t be intimidated, because the task is ours!

Oh Lord, you have heard the desire of the humble; you will strengthen their heart, You will incline your ear to vindicate the orphan and the oppressed, that man who is of the earth may cause terror no more. Psalm 10:17-18

We can say, "Not on our watch! We will defend the orphan, we will get on our knees and pray, we will open our homes, we will stop this injustice."

Look with me: We are all standing in a deluge. It's pouring down. Two hundred million raindrops are falling all around us. God has given each of us a teaspoon – not one of us can save them all, but each of us can catch some. There are clusters of people standing out in the storm holding out their teaspoons in effort to catch some of these drops before they hit the ground. They adopt. They work at Crisis Pregnancy Centers all over the world. They change diapers at orphanages, do foster care, contact their politicians, educate others about the issue and refuse to let the apathetic or the opposition around them go unchallenged. They are raising world-changers, offering financial support, being bold about the issues, seeking God for the best solutions for each situation. Many of these 200 million raindrops can be caught and given a new hope. Some will fall to the ground, lost forever. But will you hold your teaspoon out higher? Will you say, Enough! The task is ours! We won’t be quiet until this thing is finished! We will step into the downpour and extend our arms.

We will welcome the children in His name. And He will move through us, and the lives of those image-bearers will never be the same.

(previously published at Copperlight Wood)

Still here....

2011-04-05T11:30:00.000-07:00

I apologize for the neglect of the blog over the last several months. It really has been more than this busy mother can handle. Around the time of the birth of my newest baby, I tried to fiddle with a thing or two here and lost the entire template and organization of widgets and lists and such. I just let my head hit the keyboard in dismay and had to let it go. Oh, the hours it was going to take to reconstruct it all! It was such a mess that I temporarily took it out of the public eye until I could manage something respectable.

So... here we are. Admittedly, it's still a bit of a mess, but at least there's something basic to work on.
Thanks so much for your patience and continued commitment to life!

Melody

A Woman in Need...Let's Walk the Talk

2010-08-18T11:23:00.000-07:00

I've been following the story of Haley and Baby Brayley over at Waltzing Matilda. Brayley has anencephaly and is due to be born on September 1st. In spite of financial and medical pressures, Haley will choose life (as long as God wills it) for her precious daughter.

Her obstacles are great. Personally, she faces this pregnancy out of wedlock. Financially, she faces mounting doctor bills plus the question of how she will provide a dignified burial for her child. A search for an organization in the area that will help provide a plot, burial and headstone have come up short; so people are coming together to support her.

Charlotte at Waltzing Matilda has set up a "Donate" button on her blog and is facilitating that effort. Haley is also asking for prayers for the baby's father, Billy, who has supported her decision to honor Brayley's life.

Please support Brayley with whatever prayer or gift you can. We can talk pro-life all day long but really living it is something else entirely.

parental notification...what's that all about?

2010-08-07T12:14:00.000-07:00

Forget about California's wild hubbub over prop 8. Here in Alaska the big vote is on Prop 2. Maybe you have something similar going on in your state.

If a child has to have a parent's permission to get a tattoo, ear pierced, see an R-rated movie, or even -gasp!- take a Tylenol at school, isn't it a good idea for them to also need parental consent in order to have their uterus surgically cleaned out, effectively murdering their child and compromising their own physical and emotional health - perhaps for life?

Did you know that most teens are impregnated by older men - statuatory rapists - and our current law in Alaska protects them? No, no, not the teens - I meant it protects the rapist. Funny, huh?

Not a bit.

Here's an article that illustrates the scenario. It's real life. Truly happened. One could even argue that there's more documentation of this than there is of our president's birthday (aw, that was too easy, I couldn't resist).

Because we all need a little smile today...

2010-07-29T16:08:00.000-07:00

Little Pink Dream - Organza Ruffle Florette Headband made by HFL member In Honor Of

pictured on:

A Precious Little Baby Girl made by Her heavenly Father

(she's not for sale)

ending abortion

2010-07-07T12:26:00.000-07:00

Do you have plans Saturday? This has an all-star line-up you don't want to miss!

http://endingabortion.com/

I confess I do already have plans on Saturday, like many of you might - but don't let that stop you from registering! You can watch the speakers later on your own time once you've registered. I've watched many of these speakers before and I was moved - and I'm still moving. :) I hope you are moved, too!

we can stop pretending now

2010-06-23T23:34:00.000-07:00

First things first. This is not a G-rated post. So please preview this before leaving it open on your screen for your literate children to find.
And second...if anything in this post starts hitting home with you...I want to say Shame off you. This is a shame-free zone. Conviction and change, yes. Shame...can go to hell, where it originated. Because you are safe and loved here.
On to business. I kissed my kids this morning. I always do that; they sit at the table eating breakfast and I go around and ruffle their heads and give them smooches. It's a good way to start the day. We smile, we're happy, life is good.
The day is beginning.
Then I opened the mail and read Abby's story.

I don't know Abby personally yet. You probably don't either...but you might have heard of her. Here's what I read:
I was called into the room. I remember thinking that I was actually kind of excited to learn a new procedure, to witness a new technique. I thought it would be a good learning experience.

I got the ultrasound wand in place and I looked up on the screen and saw this perfectly formed baby. It was a full side profile - from head to foot.

Then I saw the cannula, the probe that is hooked up to the suction machine. All of a sudden, the cannula began to prod the baby in the side. The baby started to move. The legs started kicking.

The arms started moving. It was like the baby was trying to find a place to go in the uterus.

At that moment I thought to myself, "Oh my gosh. I'm about to witness something horrible."

Then the doctor turned on the suction and I watched the baby begin to twist and crumple through the suction. It was over in a matter of seconds.

This was the end of a life. It was the turning point in Abby's. Do you know who she is now?

Abby Johnson used to be a Director at a Planned Parenthood clinic in Texas. But then she saw what she was promoting, and realized how she had lied to women just as others had lied to her...and now she's on our side.

Are there sides in this? Must there be sides?

Oh, yes. There must be sides. There is no middle ground once you stop pretending and face reality.

I am not an advocate for showing pictures of abortions...unless you still think that abortion should be legal. Unless you think unborn babies should be disposed of like so much menstrual tissue. Unless you are still pretending that it's all okay...because it's not.

If you fall in that camp, you need to see the pictures. Now, don't be afraid - if you are so sure you are on the right side of this, then what do you have to be afraid of? Right?

If you're convinced you are on the right side of this, and that side is for abortion (even if that means "I-would-never-choose-it-personally-but-I-can't-make-that-choice-for-someone-else"), you can see the reality here. You ought to know what you are advocating. You ought to know what women are being lied to about. You ought to know what our country is coming to. You ought to know.

But if you don't want to see the pictures, it is an indication that you already know that something in your heart does not match up with your professed beliefs. Shame off you...you can stop pretending.

We'll stop pretending this is about choice...because women are being lied to.

We'll stop pretending women have no other options...because there is no such thing as an unwanted child in America. For every aborted baby, there are at least five families who would love to adopt that baby and give him or her a loving home.

We'll stop pretending this is about women's rights. Because women deserve better.

We deserve the truth. We deserve to be respected as people who can face the consequences of our choices. We deserve to be empowered, not simply enabled. We are so much better than this.

Autistic Salutatorian Inspires With Speech

2010-06-18T08:45:00.000-07:00

I won't apologize

2010-06-13T23:18:00.000-07:00

A five-minute-read that will add fuel to your fire and ammo to your artillery:

A funny thing happened to me the other day when my wife and I had, thank God, another baby (a boy). Many of my friends didn't seem all that happy for me. Sure, they went through the motions of smiles and congratulations. But it was evident that many thought me insane. Why would a young man and his wife ruin their lives with eight children? Who could afford the Jewish day-school bills? Didn't we want to live life a little, and not just be burdened with kids?

It got downright surreal when a European film company, pressed me, while my wife was in labor, to finish shooting a segment that had an urgent deadline (I obviously told them they were insane). And the next day, I was mildly criticized by a Jewish organization which was supposed to be hosting me for a lecture for having to cancel on them because the lecture clashed with the baby's [curcumcision].

I don't mind that the world doesn't really love babies, just that it pretends to. It's time we got honest about our priorities. Most people get a new car every two or three years, but one or two babies through the life of their marriage is plenty. You can get drunk on an airplane, laugh hysterically with your mates, and still not really anger people. But if you dare bring a crying baby on board you will be given malicious looks as if the little thing is a package that ticks. If you walk your dog along the street, people will stop you to tell you how cute he is. If you walk down the street with a baby, you might find a woman or two who coos, but for the most part, you'll be utterly ignored.

Indeed, the contempt shown to parents of many children is the last acceptable prejudice in our society. As a father of a large family, I find myself apologizing wherever I go, as if I committed a crime. The frequent and loaded stares from scornful onlookers imply that the famine in Africa was caused by my selfish insistence on overpopulating the earth. Long ago my wife and I discovered that few hotels were prepared to accommodate so many children, even if we took three of four rooms, which is why we bought an RV for travel.

How strange to live in a world where loving children casts one in infamy. Having a family with many children implies a backwardness and primitivism that is deemed unbecoming in the developed countries of the West. Large families, it is thought, exist only among religious weirdoes or the teeming hovels of the Third World.

Rich countries, by contrast, prefer to increase their standard of living rather than the number of the living. Looking at Western birth rates for the year 2001, the United States averaged only 14.2 births for every thousand Americans, and the birthrate among white Americans is so low that the United States will soon lose its white majority. Indeed, one can go for days in a wealthy city like Manhattan without encountering a single pregnant woman. Riches and children have become inversely proportional such that the more of the former, the less of the latter.

Hence, the high birth rates of extremely poor African nations like Uganda – at 47.52 births per 1,000 – or Niger with 50.68 births per 1,000, are deemed to be prime causes and indicators of their penury. The abundant fertility and unconstrained sexuality of these countries confirms the unspoken Western mindset of these country's inhabitants as being just one step above savages. Contraception has become a synonym for civilization.

A Christian mother of six once wrote to me, "I find it troubling to worry about getting pregnant again ... because I don't want to face the criticism of friends and family. Why do people not see children as a blessing?" A fair question which deserves a fair response.

Why is it that even many synagogues today are not children friendly? Why are people impressed that Jay Leno owns 20 motorcycles, but disgusted that some religious families choose to have 10 children?

Let's not finesse the response. We all know why. A world that has lost its innocence has trouble appreciating beings who are innocent. A world that has become selfish has soured to the idea of leading a life of selflessness. A world that has become grossly materialistic is turned off to the idea of more dependents who consume resources. And a world that mistakenly believes that freedom means a lack of responsibility is opposed to the idea of needy creatures who "tie you down."

They can go fly a kite.

By just looking at my children, I become more innocent. By loving them, I become more noble. By spending my money on them rather than myself, I find transcendence. And by being a father and liberating all of the love in my heart, my spirit soars free. I work hard to support a large family and I give up no pleasures in doing so because my children are my foremost pleasure.

I am often asked by women dating men how to tell whether they are marriage material. I tell them, "See if he enjoys children." A man who loves children is playful. He will spend his life joking with his wife because he loves to see her laugh, and will flirt with her because he loves to see her smile.

There was a time when husbands and wives worked hard to ensure they could afford the blessings of a large family. Today, the higher your earning bracket the fewer children you have, but then we always knew that many turn money from a blessing into a curse.

Before he died, the Lubavitcher Rebbe launched a campaign asking parents to have one more child than they originally planned. It is a campaign that a dwindling Jewish community should revive as it continues to disappear.

- Rabbi Shmuley Boteach, 2006

No Arms, No Legs, No Worries...

2010-05-26T10:05:00.000-07:00

Nick Vujicic was born without arms or legs. That doesn't stop him from living a life of joyful gratitude. And from making it his passion to share a message of hope. Watch this video to be inspired and to see your life a little differently; and then visit his incredible website for more.

Woman Conceived in Rape is Grateful for Life...

2010-05-22T10:45:00.000-07:00

Just another reminder that there are always two lives to consider in the decision to choose life or abortion.
Deborah Morlani, pro-life speaker and mother of five, defends Cardinal Oullet's stand in defense of those conceived in rape and talks about her own mother's decision, at the age of 16, to defend the life of her child:

"When she found out she was pregnant there was no doubt in her mind that I was her little baby and she was going to keep me and ensure that no one hurt me like she was hurt. She always felt very protective of my life while I was growing in her womb and throughout my childhood..."

"My mom made a doll named Suzie for me shortly after I was born and I still have her to this day. This little 12" handmade cotton doll has meant a lot to me over the years; she reminds me that I was a baby worth loving no matter how I was conceived. She reminds me that babies are worth loving, no exceptions."

Morlani has made it one of the missions of her life to defend the lives of babies, like her, "who were conceived in rape and to work toward ending the discrimination and hatred aimed toward us."

Read the full article here and do pass it on: Woman Conceived in Rape Thanks Quebec Cardinal for Abortion Statements

Raquel Welch takes an honest look at sexual freedom...

2010-05-11T09:39:00.000-07:00

Raquel Welch, an award-winning actress and American sex symbol, has penned the following article for the CNN Opinion website discussing the pros and cons of a sex-saturated culture. Without knowing her specific position on abortion, I would definitely classify this as a "pro-life" article as she strongly recognizes the importance of family, children and the importance of limits to sexual freedoms.

(CNN) -- Margaret Sanger opened the first American family-planning clinic in 1916, and nothing would be the same again. Since then the growing proliferation of birth control methods has had an awesome effect on both sexes and led to a sea change in moral values.

And as I've grown older over the past five decades -- from 1960 to 2010 -- and lived through this revolutionary period in female sexuality, I've seen how it has altered American society -- for better or worse.

On the upside, by the early 60's The Pill had made it easier for a woman to choose to delay having children until after she established herself in a career. Nonetheless, for young women of childbearing age (I was one of them) there was a need for some careful soul searching -- and consideration about the long-range effects of oral contraceptives -- before addressing this very personal decision. It was a decision I too would have to face when I discovered I was pregnant at age 19.

Even though I was married to the baby's father, Jim Welch, I wasn't prepared for this development. It meant I would have to put my career ambitions on hold. But "the choice" was not mine alone to make. I had always wanted to have Jim's babies, but wasn't at all sure how he would react. At the time, we were 19-year-old newlyweds, struggling to make ends meet. But he was unflinching in his desire to keep our baby and his positive, upbeat attitude about the whole prospect turned everything around. I have always loved Jim for how he responded in that moment.

During my pregnancy, I came to realize that this process was not about me. I was just a spectator to the metamorphosis that was happening inside my womb so that another life could be born. It came down to an act of self-sacrifice, especially for me, as a woman. But both of us were fully involved, not just for that moment, but for the rest of our lives. And it's scary. You may think you can skirt around the issue and dodge the decision, but I've never known anyone who could. Jim and I had two beautiful children who've been an ongoing blessing to both of us.

Later, I would strike out on my own, with my little ones, as a single mother to pursue a career in the movies. It was far from ideal, but my children didn't impede my progress. They grounded me in reality and forced me into an early maturity. I should add that having two babies didn't destroy my figure.

But if I'd had a different attitude about sex, conception and responsibility, things would have been very different.

One significant, and enduring, effect of The Pill on female sexual attitudes during the 60's, was: "Now we can have sex anytime we want, without the consequences. Hallelujah, let's party!"

It remains this way. These days, nobody seems able to "keep it in their pants" or honor a commitment! Raising the question: Is marriage still a viable option? I'm ashamed to admit that I myself have been married four times, and yet I still feel that it is the cornerstone of civilization, an essential institution that stabilizes society, provides a sanctuary for children and saves us from anarchy.

In stark contrast, a lack of sexual inhibitions, or as some call it, "sexual freedom," has taken the caution and discernment out of choosing a sexual partner, which used to be the equivalent of choosing a life partner. Without a commitment, the trust and loyalty between couples of childbearing age is missing, and obviously leads to incidents of infidelity. No one seems immune.

As a result of the example set by their elders, by the 1990s teenage sexual promiscuity -- or hooking up -- with multiple partners had become a common occurrence. Many of my friends who were parents of teenagers sat in stunned silence several years ago when it came to light that oral sex had become a popular practice among adolescent girls in middle schools across the country.

The 13-year-old daughter of one such friend freely admitted to performing fellatio on several boys at school on a regular basis. "Aw come on, Mom. It's no big deal. Everyone is doing it," she said. Apparently, since it's not the act of intercourse, kids don't count it as sex. Can any sane person fail to make a judgment call about that?

Seriously, folks, if an aging sex symbol like me starts waving the red flag of caution over how low moral standards have plummeted, you know it's gotta be pretty bad. In fact, it's precisely because of the sexy image I've had that it's important for me to speak up and say: Come on girls! Time to pull up our socks! We're capable of so much better.

Aborted Fetal DNA in vaccines linked to Autism?

2010-05-03T10:27:00.000-07:00

In Febuary of 2009, the U.S. Court of Federal Claims denied awarding damages to three families who believe that vaccines caused their children's diseases. They are only 3 of 5,000 such families seeking restitution from a government program that exists to compensate people injured by vaccines. The very existence of the program proves that these injuries do happen. However, government studies say that the dramatic increase in cases of autism is not linked to vaccinations.

The foundation of these case against vaccinations was the use and potentially harmful effect of mercury. But others are saying that this is the fundamental reason that the families lost their cases; that mercury is not the cause of the disease. There still remains a strong connection between vaccinations and the rise of autism, they say, but Mercury is not the culprit.
Studies conducted by the Sound Chose Pharmaceutical Institute indicate that the link is not mercury but rather residual DNA from aborted babies used to make certain vaccines.

We already know that embryonic stem cell research has been an abysmal failure . Not only has it been shown to be ineffective but also damaging to patients. Is this further evidence of the same?

Pro-life activist and blogger Jill Stanek thinks so: "That virus-laden DNA of aborted babies could be wreaking havoc on the DNA of healthy children is completely plausible."

Moral objections to vaccines created using aborted fetal cell lines have been raised for many years although not loudly enough to affect main stream users. Many parents are frightened by the risk of disease from a failure to vaccinate and override their moral objections for the health of their children. What many do not know is that effective, safe and morally acceptable forms of these vaccines are available in other countries but not approved by the ethically compromised FDA. When enough people refuse to participate perhaps someone will think the effort worth it.

Do we now have a health concern to add to our moral objections?

For further information about how many of our vaccines are tainted with the cell lines of aborted babies, please visit Children of God for Life .

HFL Artist Walks for Life...

2010-04-29T20:11:00.000-07:00

Elizabeth Knox is a mother, artist and a pro-lifer who walks the talk. Literally! Please take a moment to read about her latest effort and find out how you can help her support life.

*******************

Hello Friends!!

My name is Elizabeth Knox and I am participating in an important event in my community. The Carolina Pregnancy Center of Washington, North Carolina is having its annual Walk for Life and I am asking neighbors, friends, and family to sponsor me. Would you please be one of my sponsors?

This non-profit ministry served nearly 1000 clients and nearly 5000 students last year! Many of the teens, women, and men are facing difficult circumstances and need the emotional support and practical assistance offered free at the Center. The Center serves clients in 2 locations, Greenville and Washington, North Carolina.

If you would like to participate with me by being one of my sponsors, I would really appreciate it. Sponsorship is for the event, not per mile, and any gift you give is tax-deductible.

EVERY DOLLAR RAISED HELPS:
*Teens hear the challenge of sexual abstinence through the “Its Great to Wait” program in the public schools.
*Pregnant women hear the truth about all their options, while counselors pray they will choose life for the child.
*Young moms-to-be prepare for birth and parenting challenges.
*Young women & men earn vouchers for baby items through our parenting classes.
*Struggling women find emotional and spiritual recovery from an abortion through the “Mended Hearts” program and the P.A.L.M. one-day healing conference.
*Clients hear about the love and forgiveness of Jesus Christ.

My goal is to raise $1000 to help these families in need! I know I have set my goal high but I am very passionate about this.

If you would like to sponsor me, please send me a email - lizzy_h_03 [!at] yahoo.com. In the email specify if you would like your commitment of $10 or more to be billed to you by the Center and your address. If your donation is under $10 or if you are making a larger donation and prefer not to be billed, please send a check made out to the Carolina Pregnancy Center to Elizabeth Knox, 113 E. 12th Street, Washington, NC 27889.

I appreciate all your support!

God Bless,
Elizabeth Knox

*************************

In addition to her pro-life work, Elizabeth also dedicates her time to supporting research for Trisomy 18, the condition which took the life of her newborn daughter, Lilly. You can read more about her journey HERE .

Mommy love and misses her very much!

Guilty...

2010-04-26T18:33:00.000-07:00

I confess. I have been guilty of some serious blog neglect here. My only defense is that I am busy (and very sick) walking the pro-life talk. I'm pregnant for the 7th time (my 6th ended in miscarriage) and even though I've finally entered the 2nd trimester, I continue to be very sick.

I keep wondering what the problem is. Is my body chemistry out of whack? Do I have some underlying illness? My SIL thinks I'm having twins. Twins? I'm on Zofran and it's really only taking the edge off. I asked my midwife: "What's wrong with me?" She said, "Nothing dear, you just have a healthy pregnancy."

Oh, if only I could bypass pregnancy and just have the baby! Come to think of it, I'd rather bypass labor, too. I don't want to be pregnant. I don't want to go through childbirth. I'm uncomfortable, sick and exhausted.

And whiny.

This really is the point where I can see into the mind and heart of the pro-aborts. I used to be one before I became a mother. And now that I'm a mother, I know the pain of a mother's sacrifice. I certainly will never minimize another's. I also know that it's not all about me. This is 100% my pregnancy. But I cannot claim any percentage of my child's life. It is all his or hers. There is no natural right that I have to shorten that life. There is however a moral obligation as a mother to care for and protect my child.

I am suffering. I am weary. And I am guilty. Guilty of many acts of selfishness. But this child is bathed in innocence. And will not suffer for my guilt. My reward for protecting the life of my child will be the unspeakable joy that he or she will bring to my mother's heart and the satisfaction of having given the best (and yes, the worst) of myself for their well-being.

The blog is lagging because of my current struggle. I hope you all hang in there and overlook my lapse. I'm guilty. But I'm very busy growing innocence.

China enforces one-child rule with mandatory sterilizations...

2010-04-21T15:41:00.000-07:00

The Chinese government once again demonstrates gross violation of the natural rights of the Chinese people.

"Doctors in southern China are working around the clock to fulfil a government goal to sterilise — by force if necessary — almost 10,000 men and women who have violated birth control policies. Family planning authorities are so determined to stop couples from producing more children than the regulations allow that they are detaining the relatives of those who resist..."

"Zhang Lizhao, 38, the father of two sons, aged 6 and 4, said that he rushed home late last night from buying loquats for his wholesale fruit business to undergo sterilisation after his elder brother was detained. His wife had already returned so that the brother would be freed.

Mr Zhang said: “This morning my wife called me and said they were forcing her to be sterilised today. She pleaded with the clinic to wait because she has her period. But they would not wait a single day. I called and begged them but they said no. So I have rushed back. I am satisfied because I have two sons.”

Thousands of others have refused to submit and officials are continuing to detain relatives, including elderly parents, to force them to submit to surgery. Those in detention are required to listen to lectures on the rules limiting the size of families." (Read the full article here)

On a somewhat related note, there is increasing concern that acceptance of voluntary sterilization brings a host of difficulties to individuals, families and communities. Is there any strength to this claim? Here are a couple interesting articles submitted by the Couple to Couple League clarifying those concerns:

Tubal Ligation: Some Questions and Answers

Vasectomy: Some Questions and Answers

For those who have no voice...

2010-04-15T08:18:00.000-07:00

Sunshine and Cocoa...

2010-04-09T20:46:00.000-07:00

Check out this gorgeous treasury created by Shannon at Baruch's Lullaby featuring many HFL members. Three more days to comment and click and support your team !

Homegrown Wool Yarn -- ShadySideFarm

Tiered Skirt and Peasant Blouse Set Size 2 -- JoyfullySewnDesigns

Natural handmade exfoliating soap -- Swan Mountain Soaps

Mineral Eye color -- Mum Mum's Crafts

Paper Stack Destash -- Klow

Double Minky Baby Blanket -- Sewmelody

Purple and white beaded bracelet --DHElegance

Chocolate Brown Cotton soap saver -- Prairie Cottage Rose

Yellow Rose Matted Fine Art photography -- BellaRosaPhoto

Mother of Pearl Butterfly, pearl and flower necklace -- KippysSoMature

Last Minute Easter Gifts...

2010-03-29T07:57:00.000-07:00

I just did a Handmade for Life search on Etsy with some last minute Easter basket stuffing in mind. To search for Handmade for Life members on Etsy just type HFLteam in the search field. Here are some sweet finds from my search today...

**HFL members...Please remember to tag your Etsy listings with our team tag so that we can all find your items more easily!**

Wire Wrapped Beaded Crystal Pearl Bobby Pins $11

Patchwork Twirl Skirt size 3-4 $29 (free shipping)

Blue Little Bunny Slippers Size 0-3 months $14

White Easter Bow with purple and silver cross $5.50

It's time to become an activist...

2010-03-22T09:26:00.000-07:00

Congress has narrowly passed the monstrous health care bill. Obama wins. Babies lose. It seems to so many that our representatives have turned a deaf ear to the will of the people and pushed through legislation that is so objectionable to so many.

It's easy to pass the blame to corrupt government officials. After all, many of us did not vote for this administration. But the fact remains that most Americans did in spite of the fact that Obama was incredibly clear about his strong pro-abortion agenda. Remember his promises to Planned Parenthood? "The first thing I'd do as president is sign the Freedom of Choice Act." It took him a little longer than he expected but he's now making good on the heart of that promise.

Most Americans voted for this administration. Americans elected the men and women who worked so tirelessly and shamefully to push through this bill which is so damaging to our freedoms on multiple levels. You and I may not have been among the number to cast our votes that way but we cannot completely reject responsibility unless we are confident that we did everything we could to stand up in defense of life.

I know that I did not do everything I could have done. I am a busy mom who often allowed my discouragement to serve as an excuse for inaction during the last election.

What we are seeing now is the practically irreparable damage that can result from just one election cycle. The result of too many Americans lamenting the state of things from their living room couches. We tend to shy away from being "activists" leaving that label to those a little bolder than ourselves. But every American is charged with great responsibility since we are a free people and bear the burden of choosing our representatives. We have no worthy excuse to exempt ourselves from that activist role.

"I know no safe depositary of the ultimate powers of the society but the people themselves; and if we think them not enlightened enough to exercise their control with a wholesome discretion, the remedy is not to take it from them, but to inform their discretion by education. This is the true corrective of abuses of constitutional power." --Thomas Jefferson to William C. Jarvis, 1820

Midterm elections are rapidly approaching and we must make ourselves heard. If you do not know when your primary elections are taking place, find out. Some are only weeks from now. If you do not know who is running in your primary, find out. Find out immediately and do what you can to help with last minute campaigning for those who will truly represent the ideals of freedom. Many corrupt incumbents are powerful and have access to your tax dollars to fund their campaigns (a true outrage). Their opponents must hope and pray that a literate electorate will look beyond a glossy mailer to find the best candidate.

The fight over this health care bill is not over yet. State governments are preparing to fight on a local level. Let your local politicians know where you stand. Lend your support. Voice your opposition. Raise money. Knock on doors. Let your love for life and country overcome your distaste of politics.

Whatever you do, please get off the couch. America needs you.

Send Flowers, Support Life

2010-03-17T10:28:00.000-07:00

At Faith and Flowers , you can send someone a gorgeous floral arrangement and support a Culture of Life at the same time. Faith and Flowers will purchase ad time with Virtue Media on a quarterly basis using profits from their flower and plant sales. Here is just one of many beautiful selections...

Beauty and Life

"This gorgeous, timeless beauty of spray roses and godetia with pale blue blossoms reminds of the wonder and glory in all God's creation 'which rightly gives Him praise."

New Life and The Pain Scale...

2010-03-16T13:06:00.000-07:00

If you've been to a doctor or hospital within the last 20 years or so, you've likely been confronted with this cute pain scale indicator. "How badly does it hurt with Zero being not-at-all and 10 being the worst pain you've ever felt?" I never get the answer right because I've been through non-medicated labor 5 times (one of which was back labor with a tailbone fracture). Everything else in life is clearly a 5 or lower when compared with labor so my real, but occasional, medical issues are dismissed because I'm perceived to be in not enough pain. My frustrated husband lectures me every time: "Why don't you tell them how bad it is? Isn't it bad?" Of course, but that pain scale keeps me totally honest. No injury, illness or surgery I've ever had holds a candle to labor pain.

In spite of that, I still sit here thinking that I'd rather go through labor twice than suffer through these weeks and weeks of 24-hour pregnancy sickness. My average labor is 3 hours long. Fast and furious. Multiply it by two...equals six hours of terrific pain. Contrast that with endless hours, days and weeks of perpetual, debilitating sickness. Tough call.

There's no question that pregnancy and childbirth are a true cross of motherhood. There are some mothers who love pregnancy. I am not one of them and go into survival mode for quite a while with "Help me, Jesus" constantly on my lips. It is a time when I get a glimpse into how I might be different without my Christian faith. I hate this suffering and know that without a firm belief in the sanctity of each and every life at every age, I might give in to the weakness of this Culture of Death.

Motherhood is itself an act of sacrificial love. We embrace a life of service and self-donation or we spend our lives bitterly trying to escape the cross that we barely consented to. We give these painful moments gladly in love to our babies or we spend our lives resenting their intrusion.

What would I give in love to this child? Would I be strong enough to choose this path of suffering if it was optional? What good can I make of it? If I lose this child as I lost my last , would I be grateful for this difficult but short time that I had to spend with this hidden treasure?

My love for my unborn baby is very similar to my love for the Lord. Passionate but imperfect. I desire a union of perfect love but love of my own comfort and preferences seem to constantly present a stumbling block.

Dearest Little One,

I will love you even when I am sick. I will love you even when you are sick. Because love is not an emotion but a choice. Love is not about comfort but about joy in service. And I choose to give my life for you as our Lord gave His for me. Help me, Jesus.

Love forever,
Mommy

baby shower, anyone?

2010-03-12T22:17:00.000-08:00

Babies are such a nice way to start people. - Don Herold

As a public service, I give you a sampling of our talented team's baby items:

Polka dot baby hat by Deusprovidebit

Sweet Pinks baby quilt by My Creative Threads

Baby's first year knit hat by Baruch's Lullaby

Reversible baby bib by Sew Appealing

Bottoms Up bodysuit by Baby Big Mouth

Handknit baby sunhat by A. Victoria

Baby bodysuit by Tiny Vessel Apparel

Burp cloths by Krispy Banana

Sweet Dreams sign by Family Attic (I bought one of these for my new nephew!)

Oatmeal, jade, and chocolate wool blanket by EllieFitz

Creme de la Creme earflap hat by Sugarfoots

Peasant dress with ruffle by Joyfully Sewn Designs

Happy shopping!

"Everyone is wanted by someone"

2010-03-08T19:04:00.001-08:00

a place called simplicity

2010-03-03T17:48:00.001-08:00

Have you noticed that some blogs are addictive? You stumble upon them, glance around, quickly become enthralled with something, and poof! An hour has passed. Here is such a blog. It is my joy to introduce you to A Place Called Simplicity.

A pastor. His amazing wife. And their ten kids. Their hearts for LIFE will thrill you. Their honesty will surprise and delight you. And their call to adoption will challenge and bless you.

Vegetative patients able to communicate with brain waves

2010-02-24T16:25:00.000-08:00

London (Reuters) - A man in a deeply unconscious state for five years has been able to communicate with doctors using just his thoughts in a study scientists say is a "game changer" for care of vegetative state patients.
(Continue reading... )

Keepsake Jewelry Made from Flowers...

2010-02-22T11:29:00.000-08:00

The inspiration for the work of JNJ Keepsakes blossomed out of tragedy. Jessica was only 19-years old when she died in an alcohol related car accident. One source of comfort to her family was having keepsake jewelry made out of her funeral flowers. These keepsakes are cherished by her family and Renate and Arlene started a business in Jessica's memory to provide the same special remembrance for others.

I have been fascinated with this idea ever since Arlene first approached me about membership in Handmade for Life. How many different times have I wished for some way to make our special flowers and accompanying memories last a little bit longer? Petals pressed in prayer books. Stemmed roses hanging to dry in the garage. Photographs. And that bittersweet moment when I finally and reluctantly relinquish those dying blooms to the trash can.

I recently contacted JNJ Keepsakes to inquire about a custom order I would eventually like to make. Each time my husbands gives me roses, I am reminded of his love and fidelity. I don't need those roses to know he loves me because he shows it in so many ways but he knows I love roses and I'm always delighted. What if I could capture this symbol of his faithfulness and care and pass it on in a keepsake to a child on a wedding day? (You are standing here with your beloved today because of your Father's love and care. Every moment that he sacrificed for me and for you in love has helped to make you who you are and bring you to this beautiful day. May your marriage be as cherished and fruitful...) I thought a rosary or a pretty bracelet for the bride might be a perfect use for beads made from the flowers their daddy gave to me.

JNJ Keepsakes' shop on Etsy features pre-made jewelry in addition to the custom requests that they love to fulfill. They can create your perfect custom piece or just the beads ( 8mm-4mm) for you to incorporate into your own projects. The amount of flower needed for a bead varies according to type of flower and petals but a single rose will make 8 to 10 beads. The dried petals are then ground into a powder before being given a second life in the beads. The extra powder is then saved for 2 years in case the customer would like to order more items.

In addition to their passion for building up a culture of Life, Arlene and Renate also donate all profits from The Jessica Necklace to MADD to help prevent another tragedy like the one they suffered in the loss of their beloved Jessica.

I can think of so many special uses for the talented artists at JNJ. A gift for a new mother. Memorial of the loss of a preborn baby or in memory of another loved one. First Communion or weddings. Memory of a special trip or event. I'm sure there are as many different ideas as there are special occasions.

Thanks Arlene and Renate for bringing your life and gifts to the Handmade for Life family!

the parallels are everywhere

2010-02-11T19:54:00.000-08:00

I wrote as I did because as a woman, as a mother, I was oppressed and broken-hearted with the sorrow and injustice I saw, because as a Christian I felt the dishonor to Christianity, because as a lover of my country I trembled in the coming day of wrath. It is no merit in the sorrowful that they weep, or in the oppressed and smothering that they grasp and struggle, nor to me that I must speak for the oppressed - who cannot speak for themselves.

- Harriet Beecher Stowe, author of Uncle Tom's Cabin

This is Black History Month. I'm not one for celebrating any particular month by government-endorsed, small interest group designation, and when I see announcements like the one I just wrote, my brain usually tunes out and says "borrrrring..." But I happened to watch one of my favorite movies at the beginning of the month and couldn't help but notice the coincidence.

I'm also not one for doing movie reviews, so stick with me here...Ever seen Amazing Grace? It came out a few years ago, and chronicles some of the efforts of William Wilberforce and his contemporaries in their work to abolish slavery. As I watched it, I could not help but notice the parallels between the previous abolition movement - that of slavery - to the current abolition movement... that of abortion.

In the abolition debate, people were reminded that God made men equal. In the abortion debate, we remind them that God made men...period. The parallels are everywhere in history. Watch with me:

Frederick Douglass:
Whether we turn to the declarations of the past, or to the professions of the present, the conduct of the nation seems equally hideous and revolting. Standing with God and the crushed and bleeding slave I will...dare to call into question and to denounce, with all the emphasis I can command, everything that serves to perpetuate slavery - the great sin and shame of America.

The feeling of the nation must be quickened; the conscience of the nation must be roused; the propriety of the nation must be startled; the hypocrisy of the nation must be exposed; and its crimes against God and man must be proclaimed and denounced.

There is not a nation on the earth guilty of practices, more shocking and bloody, than are the people of the United States, at this very hour.

John Jay:
To contend for our own liberty, and to deny the blessing to others, involves an inconsistency not to be excused.

Elizabeth Cady Stanton:
When we consider that women are treated as property, it is degrading to women that we should treat our children as property to be disposed of as we see fit.

Margaret Sanger - but wait, lest you suffer intellectual whiplash, let me qualify this author by reminding you that she was the founder of a little business called Planned Parenthood, and she has been no friend of black people or women. This is what she said:
"We do not want word to get out that we want to exterminate the negro population."

Unfortunately for her, the word has gotten out. Unfortunately for the rest of the world, her business has had some success in carrying out her vision for society. Let us consider...
African-American deaths by cause, since 1973:
- AIDS - 0.2 million
- Cancer - 1.6 million
- Heart Disease - 2.25 million
- Abortion - 14 million
In short, in America, a black baby is almost as likely to be aborted as it is to be born.

Back to the movie. Remember? I was talking about Amazing Grace. There is a scene that takes place around a huge dinner table shortly after Wilberforce becomes a Christian. He is with a bunch of radical abolitionists and has been struggling with his purpose - whether he should do the work of God and focus his life on the abolition of slavery, or continue his growing career in Parliament. His friends challenge him to do both - and he does. And he succeeds. Eventually.

William Lloyd Garrison was another abolitionist who considered his purpose. Here's what he said about it:

Abolitionism is not a hobby, got up for political or associated aggrandisements; it is not a political ruse; it is not a spasm of sympathy, which lasts but for a moment, leaving the system weak and worn; it is not a fever of enthusiasm; it is not the fruit of fanaticism; it is not a spirit of faction. It is of heaven, not of men. It lies in the heart as a vital principle. It is an essential part of Christianity, and aside from it there can be no humanity. Its scope is not confined to the slave population of the United States, but embraces mankind. Opposition cannot weary it, force cannot put it down, fire cannot consume it.

In considering my own purpose...I confess I am tired of hearing those who think that doing God's work means that they can be aloof to the political scene around them. I am bored with the comfortable Christianity that challenges people only to pitiful introspection and a ten percent tithe. And I am disgusted with churches that push God's passion for the orphan and widow aside for mere discussions on doctrine.

I will speak more. I will pray more. I will give more. I will make people uncomfortable. But I will make myself uncomfortable, first...because I, too, have been shown amazing grace.

Friends for Life...

2010-02-10T12:48:00.000-08:00

(Leah, Catherine and Anastasia)

It is the primary mission of Handmade for Life to give artists and crafters a way to stand up publicly in defense of the unborn. It is a huge bonus that many of us have become good friends along the way.

This post is the story of 3 friends who all happen to share a passion for handmade art, their faith in Jesus Christ, and the sanctity of life. They've been online and phone friends for a very long time and recently had the opportunity to meet face to face.

The first of these friends is Princess Daffy (otherwise know as Catherine).

She runs two online boutiques featuring her lovely handmade gifts. Abbas Girl showcases many faith-based creations while Sweet heart Studio offers "pretty little things to bless your heart and home". Let it be said that Catherine is not only talented but is also one of the most thoughtful and generous souls to inhabit Etsy and the worldwide web. She has blessed many, many people through her time and treasure. And her beautiful custom artwork does hang happily on my wall!

The second friend is Anastasia who is a fiber arts magician. Her beautiful scarves and hats can be found in her two shops: Matt's Crafty Wife and Breath of Dawn Studio. Last Winter, I asked Anastasia to create a set of custom matching hats for my daughter and me (yes, she still wants to match mommy!). We were certainly not disappointed! Gorgeous creations from a true lover of life and the sweetest and most loving hands imaginable...

The third of the group is certainly not the least! Leah's creative passion overflows into so many different mediums that I'm sure I've lost track! She's on Etsy as Matic Studio (fiber/crochet/knit creations), Sugarfoots (fiber arts for baby and...java!), The Dream Giver (luxurious products for pain relief and relaxation), and Leah Moerschel (original art prints). Did I mention that I own some her her work as well? Her Saucy Senorita (pictured below left w/Leah of the haunting eyes) is one of my favorite accessories. Lovely Leah puts her whole heart into her life and work!

These three ladies recently met for the first time in Florida (at Anastasia's home) with the other two traveling many hours from their home states. What a sweet surprise for Anastasia when not only her expected company (Catherine) arrived, but also Leah. With squeals, hugs and giggles so typical of the fairer sex, they settled down to a feast of food, friendship and joy as if the miles had never held them apart.

Life is good and love blesses us unexpectedly. These three Handmade for Life members know how to open their hearts to life and bless the world with the fruits that blossom!

Unexpected Pro-Life Moment of the Super Bowl

2010-02-08T11:05:00.000-08:00

The commercial was cool. I particularly loved how it exposed the anti-life forces for what they truly are since only crazy or mean people would object to such a gentle message. But the pro-life event of this game had to be the post game images of Drew Brees with his son. I barely watched the game but did catch the celebration and this man's love for his little boy melted my heart. With tears in his eyes, he tenderly kissed those baby cheeks over and over again. This winning quarterback not only had the courage to say "God is great" on national television but to show that true manhood honors the smallest and most vulnerable among us. Watch the video below to see the moment that made me so glad I hadn't gone to bed...

Life and Hope Concert...Give me a ride?

2010-02-04T11:57:00.000-08:00

If I could only find a way to get to Indianapolis on April 11th...

...I would be a very happy woman.

Not that I'm not rather happy now, but getting to see two of my all-time favorite musicians while supporting the cause of Life? Well, there's simply no question that I might be a wee bit happier!

The Terri Schindler Schiavo Foundation is hosting the Life and Hope Concert on Sunday, April 11th, 2010 at the Murat Theatre in Indianapolis, IN. Did I mention that Randy Travis will be performing? AND Collin Raye? Two incredibly talented musicians with hearts of gold and totally devoted to defending the sanctity Life. Seriously, this is not to be missed if you can swing it.

Want a sneak peak? Please watch these videos and allow your heart to love a little deeper than it did yesterday. In the first, Collin Raye sings about loving his special needs granddaughter. The second is Randy Travis singing about sacrificial love.

(Click here or on the picture Below to Listen to "Raise Him Up")

Would these guys not be perfect HFL artist members? :)

Anyone able to go? I'd love an autograph for our Handmade for Life wall!!

Embryonic stem cell research a failure

2010-02-03T16:11:00.000-08:00

LOS ANGELES, California, January 29, 2010 (LifeSiteNews.com) - California's Institute for Regenerative Medicine came into being five years ago, fueled by a conviction that the Bush administration's restriction on embryo-destructive research in the National Institutes of Health was stifling the progress of science.

But after years of fruitless work, the Institute has now quietly diverted funds from embryonic stem cell research (ESCr) to adult stem cell research - which has already produced dozens of treatments and all-out cures for maladies ranging from spinal cord injury, to Alzheimer's, to type I diabetes.

The California government - which is again teetering on the brink of bankruptcy - in 2004 passed the California Stem Cell Research and Cures Initiative, or Proposition 71. The initiative pumped $3 billion into research seeking some medical use for stem cells harvested from human embryos, which are killed in the process.

But an editorial in the Los Angeles-based Investor's Business Daily magazine January 12 pointed out the abysmal failure of the state's massive investment in research that has procured no effective treatments to date.

"Five years after a budget-busting $3 billion was allocated to embryonic stem cell research, there have been no cures, no therapies and little progress," notes the IBD editors.... (continue reading)

HFL artist keeps famous babies warm

2010-02-02T15:11:00.000-08:00

Sarah Palin's grandson, Tripp, was spotted this Winter wearing a Handmade for Life creation!

In this picture (from the MSNBC website ), you can see Bristol's little guy sporting a cap made by our own Shannon of Baruch's Lullaby .

In spite of the sad story that accompanies the headline, we honor the Palins' commitment to life and know that the joy of this child's presence offers consolation in a broken adult world.

Both the Palins and Baruch's Lullaby are Alaskan residents and likely know how to keep little heads and fingers warm. I have seen and touched Shannon's work and know that to be true!

A percentage of the sales on Shannon's site support the Heartreach Pregnancy Center in Wasilla Alaska. Check out the section of her shop titled Heartreach Benefit.

Shannon is also donating all proceeds from her felted baby booties to Haiti relief through Samaritan's Purse.

Surprise in San Francisco

2010-02-02T07:43:00.000-08:00

Take 5 minutes to listen to Michael Savage 's account of the 2010 Pro-Life March in San Francisco. He was surprised by what he saw and I found his account incredibly encouraging.

A grateful nod to Pat Madrid for posting this on his blog.

Pro-Life Valentine Giveaway!

2010-02-01T10:28:00.000-08:00

Cecilia at Hair Bows 4 Life is giving away one of her beautiful bows this month in honor of St. Valentine's Day. Email your favorite quote about love to hairbows4life@gmail.com and be entered to win this pretty bow .

Cecilia and her family use their bows to raise awareness and support for the unborn and the sanctity of human life by giving back 10% of each sale to the Pro-Life community.

106 Artists Stand for Life

2010-01-31T11:34:00.000-08:00

Handmade for Life has just marked it's 1st anniversary as an online community of pro-life artists! The number ONE is a very exciting number. However, I find the number 106 to be even more exciting. To date, HFL boasts 106 professional artist/crafters standing up in word and deed for the unborn.

Handmade for Life consists almost entirely (but not exclusively) of artists who have online shops at Etsy. Word seems to travel quickly there! While Etsy is a great opportunity for creative professionals , it is much like art communities everywhere in that pervasive anti-life expression seems to find an easy forum. I have heard the opinion that pro-aborts on Etsy are simply more vocal and that there is also a large element that support the cause of life. It is certainly heartening to see the hundred who have gathered in our small community just in the course of one year.

I'll be taking time over the next few weeks to introduce each of our artists on this blog. I hope that you will bookmark or follow so that you won't miss any.

To Handmade for Life members: Please contact me on Etsy or via the HFL email (right sidebar) with any information about your work or pro-life activities that you would like to share.

UPDATE: As I was preparing to publish this post, I received information about our 9th member this month. I'll cap off the post with a nod to Hand Maid Creations , our newest member. It's great to have you here as our 107th!

Crocheted Flower Headbands

Tebow Superbowl Ad Ruffling Anti-Life Feathers

2010-01-28T07:14:00.000-08:00

March for Life...In your living room

2010-01-22T06:17:00.000-08:00

Can't make the March for Life this year? There are ways to participate from wherever you are. Check out Jill Stanek's event listing Here .

Haiti, America and willful ignorance...

2010-01-21T08:06:00.000-08:00

People rise to the occasion during tragedy. We bond in our grief and extend past our comfort levels to serve those in extreme need. We have seen it in instances like the terrorist attacks on 9/11. We are seeing it now with the relief effort in Haiti. Haiti has brought us together in our grief and January has been a month of mourning and a month of action. But tomorrow, on January 22nd, we remember and grieve for a tragedy that is far greater than the one in Haiti or 9/11.

On January 22, 1973, the Supreme Court of the United States of America ruled that unborn American children do not share the same fundamental right to life as children who are born. They are property, chattel, things to be used and broken and discarded at will. We already had a choice about whether or not we wished to kill our children. Roe v. Wade simply eliminated the criminal penalty for the act.

The people of Haiti are suffering a natural disaster of catastrophic proportions. Ours is a manmade horror; where mothers allow men to torture and dismantle and burn their offspring within their very wombs. Children are murdered. Women are wounded. Many women have died along with their babies from legal abortions. We have been weeping and suffering for the Haitian people. Why are we so cold to our own?

There should not be a day that goes by when we do not consider the horror of what abortion is. There should not be a day when we are not on our knees begging the Lord to free us from this scourge and to protect the children. We should force ourselves to look at it. Be willing to speak the truth to a nation of people that has it's fingers in it's ears. Do we love enough to do this?

Although the people of Haiti still cling tenuously to their anti-abortion laws , abortion is still a common practice. As long ago as 1999, it was reported that roughly 7% of all pregnancies in Haiti ended in abortions. According to the Population Research Institute , Haiti has long been the target of aggressive population control tactics and funding. Circumvention of the law is possible when humanitarian aid agencies (such as USAID ) manipulate terminology such as "reproductive health". American tax dollars have been in Haiti for years helping the mothers to murder their own children in conditions that should even upset the pro-aborts. The people of that nation have long been afflicted by suffering and poverty and we are only now weeping for them?

Tomorrow is a day of prayer and fasting , of mourning and weeping, of regret and recommitment, of solidarity and promise. Let us continue to help those who are in immediate need around the world. Let us also remember the catastrophic and bloody mess that Americans have on their hands. It is sanitized homicide. Hidden. We do not have to see it if we do not choose to see it. Please commit yourself to opening yourself up to that pain. Authentic love is willing to suffer. Let us suffer for the little ones and fight for their lives. Let us open our hearts to the families who are burdened by the pain of this scourge and reach out to the women who walk alone and silently in their grief.

If you have not seen what abortion really is, see it here .

If you do not want to look, look anyway .

If you have had an abortion, know that you are not alone in your pain. Go here to listen to others who have found healing.

Let us mourn for these children.

May our hearts be broken enough

for God to enter and stir us to

action to defend their lives.

(The beautiful photo above is from the EWTN home page)

American Idol Welcomes Pro-Life Teen

2010-01-15T09:46:00.001-08:00

checks, credit cards, and Paypal, oh my!

2009-12-30T18:05:00.000-08:00

How do you support your favorite pro-life ministry? Do you send them checks? Do you have an automatic withdrawal schedule set up? Or...do you do what I just discovered (yes, I'm a little slow sometimes, I admit) and send them something directly out of your Paypal account?

Holy mackerel! It was so easy! No check to write, no postage, no getting a paper cut from licking a yucky envelope flap (ewwww). Just three clicks. Maybe four. And done. Hoo-wah!

Here is a sampling of our allies on the front lines that accept Paypal:

Susan B. Anthony List
Live Action
National Right to Life
Survivors
The UnChoice
Personhood USA

If you're quick, you can still get in a year-end donation, too. Don't delay! Your laptop is standing by!

UPDATE: As I clicked "publish post" and was sent to the "Your post published successfully!" page, guess what the Google ad was? To donate to the "Pro-Choice Cause" of Planned Parenthood. Just thought you should know.

Witnessing through music...

2009-12-21T10:27:00.000-08:00

Beautiful testimony to the truth. Inspired witness to the joy of motherhood. Thanks so much to HFL member Cecilia at Hairbows for Life for sharing this.

'Unborn' by Caitlin Jane

Unborn- Caitlin Jane from Glen Elliott on Vimeo.

Wearing the Truth

2009-12-18T22:32:00.000-08:00

I recently came across this T-Shirt by typing "pro-life" into an Etsy search. The description reads:

Anyone can be a hero-because even the smallest among us can dramatically affect all of us.

Featuring Da Vinci's sketch of the child in utero, this shirt simply and boldly proclaims that human life is worth saving at all stages.

Definitely going on my wish list. Find it at

Eternal Revolution's websites Here and Here .

Life Athletes

2009-12-14T10:31:00.000-08:00

Chris Godfrey is a great man. Great in a worldly sense as a member of the Indiana Bar and as a graduate of the University of Notre Dame Law School. Great in an athletic sense as the starting right guard for the Super Bowl XXI champion New York Giants. And great in heart and character, giving his life and talents to build a Culture of Life among athletes, particularly the young.

Life Athletes was born in the heart of Chris Godfrey in South Bend, Indiana. I had the pleasure of getting to know his family at that time through our mutual interests in faith, family and defense of the unborn. During Advent of 1997, we were invited to a Christmas party at his home and I was expecting the arrival of my first born at any time. On that particular day, Chris summoned his guests to his family room and popped a VHS into the player. It was the inaugural Life Athletes video and I thought it was awesome.

Since then, Chris's efforts have clearly born fruit and blossomed in ways that have me jumping up and down. I couldn't find the original video I saw so many years ago but found his recent work which is simply incredible.
Here are two, 30 second spots. Wouldn't you love to see these on network television?

There is also a longer (5 minute) inspirational film that is well-worth watching. Entrancing. And if you watch closely at the end, you'll see Chris Godfrey, a true hero who is strong enough to dominate world class athletes and man enough to defend the most helpless and innocent among us.

The Life Athletes Commitment

I will try to do what is right, even when it is difficult.

I will give myself only to the special person whom I marry as my partner for life.

I will respect the lives of others, especially the unborn and the aged.

I will not quit or make excuses when I fail. I will try again.

To find out more about Life Athletes and the resources it provides to help build a life-giving culture among our youth, visit LifeAthletes.org .

Free Silent No More Awareness Sign

2009-12-08T12:51:00.000-08:00

In an effort to encourage more women and men to stand up and speak out about the terrible impact of abortion in their lives, the leaders of the Silent No More Awareness Campaign are giving away free signs .

These signs are big (2 feet by 2 feet), double-sided and made of sturdy corrugated vinyl; perfect for placing outside your home or taking them to rallies or mills.

Donations are very welcome but not required. Visit the Silent No More website to order your Free sign today.

Georgette Forney and Janet Morana (co-founders of Silent No More) each holding up one side of the sign.

Mother, Activist, Artist

2009-12-01T09:20:00.000-08:00

An artist's life is a life of passion looking for expression. The creation of beautiful things cannot come from a soul that is bored and dull. All of our artists here at Handmade for Life are witnesses to this and Jess at New Vintage is a particularly striking example of this truth.

She is a 24-year old homeschooling mother of two little ones, including one with cerebral palsy . So she knows about life-giving love. She is a musician with a degree in piano pedagogy and teaches children the joy of musical expression. So she knows how to express passion with beauty. She is a jewelry artist who designs for pleasure, profit and as a way to communicate and educate about the value of Life. And 30% of the profits from her pro-life creations is donated to the Right to Life cause. So she knows how to use her gifts for a greater purpose.

I asked Jess to tell me more about the work that she does for Life and this is a little of what she shared:

My day is consumed with homemaking and training up my kids each moment; so conveniently, God has given me two gifts I can use to bless others even while at home. I have an degree in piano pedagogy and design jewelry! I have always liked to research the pro-life battle and thought there was a void that needed filling; awareness needs to be raised to this problem that always seems to be pushed under the table.

I love making something stylish and statement-making that people will ask about because I can give them a personal defense of the value of each life. I have a piano student with downs syndrome and she is part of the lucky 10% of children with Down's that gets to breath his or her first breath; and my son (having cp himself) is part of this vulnerable special needs group so often put out of their parent's misery to save them time, cost, and supposed hassle. The most shocking thing I've come to learn about the abortion industry are the blatant lies told and the misconceptions people have as a result about the physical and mental harms to both women, children, whole families, clinic workers, and even our economy.

There is no good whatsoever that comes from "getting rid of the evidence" of a trying time in life, no matter the situation. It won't heal any hurt. Someday, I would like to do more, but for now I can offer these bracelets as a reminder (and conversation starter) to people everywhere that little ones are dying; the number of children who die every day from abortion-on-demand equals the total number of deaths from the Iraq war. Perhaps a few would be saved if I could use that conversation to deliver a few special facts that opened someone's mind to more logical and eternal thinking.

If that isn't enough to draw you to Jess's shop , then a peek at her jewelry will have you hooked. I have had the great pleasure of seeing and touching her work and I give you my word that her pieces are quality and absolutely gorgeous. Earlier this year, she donated this Vibrant Carnelian Pro-Life Charm Bracelet to my local pro-life fundraiser....even though she lives in another state. I am grateful to Jess for her gift of spontaneous generosity. She is an inspiration to me and a blessing to the pro-life movement.

Red Coral and Leaf Fabric Bead Sterling Loop Necklace

Amethyst and Pearl Sterling Rolo Chain Earrings

(Jess's sister, Alexa Roy, is pictured above modeling the Water Lily Citrine and Jade Sterling Loop Necklace )

Art Student Enhances Ultrasound Technology

2009-11-25T11:07:00.000-08:00

"I just can't wait to hold my baby!" How many times have the expectant mothers among us expressed such a desire? Now, it's finally possible...in a way.

Brazilian PhD student Jorge Lopes has pioneered a method of converting data from MRI and ultrasound images into life size models of unborn babies.

His method, called rapid protyping, slowly prints layer upon layer of plastic powder until a 3D model appears. The method has been used for everything from jewelry and car components to mummies; and now to babies hidden within their mothers' wombs.

'It’s amazing to see the faces of the mothers. They can see the full scale of their baby, really understand the size of it,' said Dr Lopes.

Read more about this amazing new technology here .

and the winner is...

2009-11-23T12:04:00.000-08:00

Wait, wait, wait. You expect me to tell you right off the bat? No way, Jose! First you get to see pics of the Highly Technical Drawing Procedure we followed.

1. Find the cutest three-year-old you know. Fortunately, I live with one, so he was pretty handy. Employ said three-year-old in cutting out small pieces of paper.

2. Encourage him to keep cutting while you tally up entries and start writing names on already cut pieces of paper.

3. Help him fold and insert papers into knit hat ("You mean fode dem so dey wook wike chips?Awwwright!")

4. Hold up hat by the earflaps to admire your work sufficiently. Ta da!

5. Okay, here it comes...WE HAVE A WINNER!!!

Congratulations, Allison! Many blessings on your new marriage!

Family Attic giveaway!

2009-11-06T21:55:00.000-08:00

We want to introduce you to one of our precious team members - Nana from Family Attic! Here she is, in her own words...and don't forget to check for details at the end of this post for how you can enter to win one of her beautiful custom signs!

There's nothing more important to me than FAMILY. As a little girl I would sneak up an old winding staircase to my Nana's attic and dig through her old trunks & dusty boxes exploring for treasure. That attic was like a time capsule and I just LOVED IT! Memories of those times at my Nana's house stayed with me. :) That is where I got the name for my Cottage business, FAMILY ATTIC SHOPPE.

I get inspiration from anything vintage & chippy. Those objects speak to me and become a part of my cottage sign designs. I've painted for as long as I can remember and everything I LOVE comes together in my cottage signs, and I think it shows. Now my grandchildren call me Nana and so do you! I adored my Nana who taught me about FAMILY. I'm honored to carry on her name in my business, FAMILY ATTIC SHOPPE.

Years ago my husband and I purchased 80 acres in a small town, much like I grew up in and we built a country ranch home together. It took us six years to finish but when it was complete we were amazed. It felt as if we lived there all our lives because the house was a reflection of who we were and what we love. Now we are struggling to keep it. Our primary business has all but failed after 25 years of hard work. The economy has effected us like it has many families in the world. After praying for direction I started painting again and my sign business started making enough for food. Then enough to pay this bill or that. Now we are hoping it will be enough to keep our home that we built and our daughters grew up in and our grandchildren enjoy.

My heart has always gone out to children of any age. I discovered a group called LIFE CARE CENTER. They provide young single mothers with diapers, food, bottles, medical care, etc. and they need help. I've decided to create a children's line of signs and donate the profits to them.

I love Family Attic! And I loooove the sign Nana is giving away! Below is an example, it measures 10"x24" and will have the winner's family name. Here's how you can enter to win - and yes...you can enter more than once!

1. Leave a comment here mentioning your favorite item from Family Attic (1 entry).

2. Become a follower of this blog (1 entry).

3. Become a follower of Family Attic's blog (1 entry).

4. Add the HFL badge to your blog and post a link in the comments below (2 entries).

5. Blog about this contest and link our blog on it - and don't forget to give us the link below in the comments! (3 entries)

Existing followers and those who already display the HFL badge count as entries, as long as you post a comment (with link if applicable) to let us know! Them's the rules... you can have up to 8 entries! Contest closes Friday, November 20th, and we'll announce the winner on Monday, November 23rd!

Aborted fetal material used in anti-wrinkle cream

2009-10-27T10:00:00.000-07:00

What price will we pay for our vanity? Children of God for Life announced today that a bio-pharmaceutical company called Neocutis is using aborted fetal cell lines to produce anti-aging creams. From COG's press release:

“It is absolutely deplorable that Neocutis would resort to exploiting the remains of a deliberately slaughtered baby for nothing other than pure vanity and financial gain,, stated (COG) Executive Director Debi Vinnedge. “There is simply no moral justification for this.”...

Neocutis’ key ingredient known as “Processed Skin Proteins” was developed at the University of Luasanne from the skin tissue of a 14-week gestation electively-aborted male baby donated by the University Hospital in Switzerland. Subsequently, a working cell bank was established, containing several billion cultured skin cells to produce the human growth factor needed to restore aging skin.

The list of products using the cell line include: Bio-Gel, Journee, Bio-Serum, Prevedem, Bio Restorative Skin Cream and Lumiere....

“We know there are companies using moral sources for collagen and skin proteins. We intend to publicly promote these other cosmetic companies competing with Neocutis that are willing to step forward and contact us.”

Read the rest of the article HERE , contact Neocutis , and spread the word.

And if you're looking for some beautiful Bath and Body products made by pro-life artists, check out the following links :

Luscious Lather

Nourishing Undereye Creme

Detox Facial Mask

Mum Mum's Crafts

Mineral Make-up Eye Shadow and Liner

Pro-Life Halloween!

2009-10-26T14:15:00.000-07:00

I hope you haven't carved your pumpkins yet because this idea is the coolest way to share your passion for life during the holiday! Congrats to American Life League (ALL) for coming up with this amazing design. Get the template here.

And I know that all you crafty people already have your own amazing ideas rattling around in your wonderful heads. ALL would like to see what you come up with and will post the best pics on their home page. Find out more here.

Make sure to link your efforts in the comments here!

A Six Minute Love Story

2009-10-16T07:05:00.000-07:00

You will not regret the 6 minutes that you spend watching this powerful love story. Watch it HERE .

from the fire

2009-10-13T22:25:00.000-07:00

I had a dream the night before last that will probably stick with me forever. I was somewhere around this huge oven, or stove, or campfire, and (this was disturbing) there were babies abandoned around it. They had been left there either to die or because people thought they were already dead, and I was so sad...I was watching them and realized two of the babies were still alive ...and I went to ask for help, and I pulled them out of the fire, and got them blankets, thinking I needed to get them to a hospital for burn treatment. But they had no burns, they were perfectly calm, healthy, living babies. The dream was so vivid! Still half asleep, I asked God what it meant and He said, clear as anything, "You are pulling babies from the fire." I immediately thought of Jude 23. Gasp!

"...snatch others from the fire and save them; to others show mercy, mixed with fear—hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh."

Here in Wasilla, we are in the middle of fundraising efforts to convert our local HeartReach Pregnancy Center into a medical facility, so we can provide ultrasounds for women in need. Currently these women have to be referred to the Crisis Pregnancy Center in Anchorage forty-five minutes away to get an ultrasound. Unfortunately, not everyone will make that drive to see the reality of the life inside them, so we are bringing that reality to them as soon as possible.

We are snatching them from the fire! Every time we send a check to a local crisis pregancy center, every time we vote for candidates who value life, everytime we support the business of someone who donates to the cause of life, every time we sign a petition furthering the cause for life. Every time we read the Constitution, and every time we educate ourselves and others about legislation and current events.

Every time we hold our elected officials feet to the fire, we are snatching the babies - and their mothers - out of it.

Every time we put a new ultrasound machine in a prolife facility, we win! Every time.

Therefore, since through God's mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart. 2 Corinthians 4:1

One Minute of Pure Happiness...

2009-10-09T08:14:00.000-07:00

partners in the cause

2009-10-07T11:14:00.000-07:00

This month marks Mom 4 Life's 6th anniversary! Oh...you haven't heard of them? Go check them out! This company is the brainchild of Heather Ledeboer, a funny, savvy gal who is the mother of four children - three here on earth and one in Heaven. Her story is amazing, and her website is full of great mom-invented products that you may not be able to live without!

But wait - I got ahead of myself and forgot the main reason I was posting this. Bear with me...I'm taking a sip of coffee...oh, yes, where was I?

Mom 4 Life is donating ALL PROFITS IN OCTOBER to Open Arms, their local pregnancy care center. So you can read about it here, read about Heather here, and go shopping for the cause HERE!

But don't forget to check out all of our great artists, too. :)

Handmade For Life Baby

Handmade for Life Kids

Nurses for Life

2009-10-02T09:38:00.000-07:00

Find out more about the National Association of Pro-Life Nurses HERE .

60-Yard Touchdown Run by Boy with Down Syndrome

2009-09-29T11:12:00.000-07:00

When I read this story this morning I was struck again by the fact that a person who loves all life (regardless of ability) has a blessing of joy that those who fight to suppress and destroy life do not have. The pro-life person accepts a certain amount of suffering to live a life of sacrificial love. The result of that investment of love is a bounty of blessing that would not have existed otherwise.

The story of Matt Ziesel's touchdown run is an example of the fruit of such love. Everyone involved in this event had the opportunity to have their minds and hearts changed forever by embracing the life and effort of this boy.

"I scored a touchdown! 60 yards, I go for touchdown for us!"

Final score? 46-6 in favor of the other team; but everyone was a winner that day. Read the full story HERE .

Hair Bows 4 Life

2009-09-28T12:05:00.000-07:00

One of the joys of being a part of the Handmade for Life community is to have ongoing communication with and inspiration from creative people who use their talents to help the unborn. Our newest member has even included that mission in the name of her shop.

Hair Bows 4 Life is run by Cecilia who is the mother of 5 children. It all began as an effort to make quality hair bows for her 3 beautiful daughters who happen to have a lot of hair! As a Christian, Cecelia knew that her work needed to lift up God's children and support the sanctity of life. She gives 10% of all sales the pro-life community.

In addition to supporting the cause of life financially, Hair Bows 4 Life also accepts donations for their A Bow for a Girl mission. Every time someone donates $5, a pretty Princess Bow to an orphan cared for my Mother Teresa's Missionaries of Charity . Cecilia's goal is to "make each girl feel pretty and bright as she is told and retold that she is a daughter of God, His little princess!"

Welcome, Cecilia! And thank you so much for all that you do for God's children!

Pro-Life Answers to Pro-Choice Arguments

2009-09-25T06:28:00.000-07:00

Partial excerpt from Randy Alcorn's Pro-Life Answers to Pro-Choice Arguments :

Argument 17. "Every child a wanted child. It's unfair to children to bring them into a world where they're not wanted."...

...Answer 17c. "Unwanted" describes not a condition of the child, but an attitude of adults.

The problem is not unwanted children, but unwanting adults. "Wanting" is simply one person's subjective and changeable feeling toward another. The unwanted child is a real person regardless of anyone else's feelings toward her. For years women were degraded when their value was judged by whether or not they were wanted by men. Just as a woman's value is real whether or not a man recognizes it, so a baby's value is real whether or not his mother or father recognizes it. "Every woman or child a wanted woman or child" is a good goal, but if a woman or child is not wanted, it does not justify killing her.

Pro-Life Victory Dominican Republic

2009-09-22T12:17:00.000-07:00

In response to efforts by pro-abortion activists to decriminalize abortion in the Dominican Republic, the country's legislature added a constitutional ammendment to permanently protect pre-born children. The April 22nd vote of 167 to 32 added the words: "the right to life is inviolable from conception until death."

Read more at LifeSiteNews.com .

There is hope for the United States. Thanks so much to all who work so tirelessly in battle. Please keep up the great work!

Pro-Life Television Ad

2009-09-21T09:57:00.000-07:00

On July 16, 2009, CatholicVote.org released it's 3rd "Imagine" ad. These pro-life ads are stunning in their simplicity and beauty. They speak the truth in 45 seconds with tremendous clarity and power. Imagine spot #1 was famously (or infamously) rejected by NBC and CNN and still viewed over 1.8 million times! Their Imagine spot #2 was equally powerful. Number 3 certainly does not disappoint. Beautiful.

Celebrating Harvest with Pro-Life Artists and Crafters

2009-09-14T10:09:00.000-07:00

I have recently been browsing the Autumn collections from our member shops and having a great time. Here are just a very few of the wonderful items I stumbled upon including harvest goodies useful for pets, kids, crafters, home, and...um...personal organizational necessities (a.k.a. beautiful handbags).

Enjoy!

Autumn Owls Dog Collar by Inu Inspirations

Boys Native American Indian Costume by Custom Threadlines

Pumpkin Hand Knit Hat by DeusProvidebit

Brilliant Leaves Hang Tags by Peek a Boo Productions

Fall Harvest Cottage Signs by Family Attic

Chocolate Brown and Orange Fall Handbag by My Creative Threads

Pro-Life Activist Murdered

2009-09-11T08:40:00.000-07:00

BREAKING: A well-known pro-life activist has been gunned down in front of a Michigan high school. Read more here .

Nazi Germany or modern America?

2009-09-09T17:42:00.000-07:00

Can anyone guess who wrote the following?

How about this one?

Adolph Hitler? Not this time...

The man who helped to write the preceding words has just been appointed by President Obama to be our new "Science Czar". John Holdren wrote a book in 1977 along with Paul and Ann Ehrlich called, Ecoscience--Population, Resources, Environment . The selections above are taken from that book and should suffice to alarm any thinking American.

Please read more here and be sure to sound the alarm.

Blood Money movie trailer

2009-09-08T04:52:00.000-07:00

The movie Blood Money is due to be completed later this month. The director is making an effort to garner enough public interest to be able to present it in theaters. Please distribute the link to the trailer on YouTube to spread the word.

Pro-Life Hollywood

2009-08-27T15:25:00.000-07:00

August 25, 2009 (LifeSiteNews.com) - Jim Caviezel, the actor who took the film world by surprise with his moving depiction of Christ in 2004 (The Passion of Christ), said this week that abortion has nothing to do with helping women and that he is willing to risk his career to say so.

Caviezel gave an interview with the US magazine Catholic Digest, in which he spoke about the challenge he received from a colleague to adopt a disabled child as a demonstration of his well-publicized pro-life stand. Earlier this year Caviezel adopted his second child - a five-year-old girl with a brain tumour from the Guangzhou region of China...

..."Look, I am for helping women. I just don't see abortion as helping women. And I don't love my career that much to say, 'I'm going to remain silent on this'. I'm defending every single baby who has never been born. And every voice that would have been unique....How do we know that we didn't kill the very child who could have created a particular type of medicine that saves other lives?"

Read the rest of the story here.

Closing Sale for Mum Mum's Jewelry!

2009-08-26T09:56:00.000-07:00

Lucy of Mum Mum's Crafts will be closing her jewelry shop in order to focus exclusively on her bath and body shop. Lucy is having a clearance sale on all of her remaining jewelry...50% off of her beautiful work! A great opportunity to stock up on some quality, handmade gifts for Christmas. And a wonderful comfort to know that your money will be supporting an enthusiastic advocate for life!

Visit Mum Mum's Beaded Jewelry to shop her Closing Sale at www.mummumsbeadedjewelry.etsy.com

While you're at it, check out her amazing bath and body shop at Mum Mum's Crafts for Mineral Make-up, lotion, soap, lip balm and deodorant.

Mineral Make-up from Mum Mum's

Embracing Life--A Mother's Instinct Saves Her Baby

2009-08-24T09:33:00.000-07:00

Even our smallest choices have big consequences. One mother's decision to hold her dying baby made the difference between life and death. This beautiful story was originally published on GrowingYourBaby.com.

Sometimes a preemie doesn’t need to be hooked up to 10 different machines to be given the chance to survive.
When Carolyn Isbister put her 20oz baby on her chest for a cuddle, she thought that it would be the only chance she would ever have to hold her. Doctors had told the parents that baby Rachel only had only minutes to live because her heart was beating once every ten seconds and she was not breathing.

Mrs. Isbister remembers saying:

“I didn’t want her to die being cold. So I lifted her out of her blanket and put her against my skin to warm her up. Her feet were so cold.

“It was the only cuddle I was going to have with her, so I wanted to remember the moment.” Then something remarkable happened. The warmth of her mother’s skin kick started Rachael’s heart into beating properly, which allowed her to take little breaths of her own.

“We couldn’t believe it – and neither could the doctors. She let out a tiny cry.”

“The doctors came in and said there was still no hope – but I wasn’t letting go of her. We had her blessed by the hospital chaplain, and waited for her to slip away.

“But she still hung on. And then amazingly the pink colour began to return to her cheeks.”

“She literally was turning from grey to pink before our eyes, and she began to warm up too.”

The sad part is that when the baby was born, doctors took one look at her and said ‘no’.

“They didn’t even try to help her with her breathing as they said it would just prolong her dying. Everyone just gave up on her,” her mom remembered. Ian Laing, a consultant neonatologist at the hospital, said: “All the signs were that the little one was not going to make it and we took the decision to let mum have a cuddle as it was all we could do.

“Two hours later the wee thing was crying. This is indeed a miracle baby and I have seen nothing like it in my 27 years of practice. I have not the slightest doubt that mother’s love saved her daughter.”

Rachael was moved on to a ventilator where she continued to make steady progress.

Miss Isbister said: “The doctors said that she had proved she was a fighter and that she now deserved some intensive care as there was some hope.

“She had done it all on her own – without any medical intervention or drugs.

“She had clung on to life – and it was all because of that cuddle. It had warmed up her body enough for her to start fighting.”

Because Rachel had suffered from a lack of oxygen doctors said there was a high risk of damage to her brain. But a scan showed no evidence of any problems.

After just 5 weeks she was taken off the ventilator and four months she was released home. She is currently doing well and enjoy cuddles, which her parents give whenever possible.

When a parent holds their baby on their chest – skin to skin it is referred to as Kangaroo Mother Care.

The benefits for all babies on KMC are that they stabilize faster on skin to skin care than in the incubator (they do not stabilize in the incubator in the first six hours of life)Then KMC babies have stable oxygen rates and breathing. The heart rate is stable. The temperature is most stable on the mother ( in skin to skin care the mothers chest automatically warms to warm a cold baby, and the mothers core temperature can drop if her baby has a temperature.)

The Facts about Health Care...

2009-08-12T08:43:00.000-07:00

As most of you know, town hall meetings have been organized by politicians all over the country to discuss Obama's health care plan. The legal team at Americans United for Life (AUL) has written a concise flyer to distribute at these meetings. It provides details concerning the aspects of the bills under consideration that relate to abortion, end-of-life care and conscience rights. This flyer also includes three fundamental principles that must be in any health care plan that aims to protect life.

Click here to see the flyer.

Although this flyer was designed for the town hall forum, it could be used in many different situations. Print a few out and make sure that everyone in your life is aware of the disaster the President is trying to foist upon Americans.

And while it's on your mind, sign this petition(created by the National Center for Policy Analysis) opposing Obama's health care plan . It is being talked about all over the radio and exceeded 1 million signatures as of August 4th. Read what Bill Bennett has to say about this petition here.
And sign it here.

Christmas in July with Handmade for Life Artists...

2009-07-28T11:17:00.001-07:00

Need an excuse to do a little shopping? 'Tis the season for school shopping, birthdays, graduations, anniversaries, memorial gifts, and just-because gifts....

But my favorite reason to shop year-round is Christmas preparation! I love to leave those weeks before Christmas free for baking, gathering with friends and family, and decorating. Last minute mall excursions are not the way I prefer to spend my Advent. Finding great deals is the icing on the cake!

Here are a few fantastic sales from some of our pro-life artists. Grab a cup of tea...Put your feet up...And enjoy!!

Clearance!-Garden Jubilee Children's Purse--$12.50 from Storybook Stitches

Sale-Felted toddler mittens with cuff and tie-- $17 from Baruch's Lullaby

New Listing Sale-Our Lady of Guadalupe (Patroness of the Unborn) Rosary-$150 from With Love From Mom

Sale-Handpainted Chenille Neckwarmer/Cowl-$25 from Matic Studio

Sale-Over the Shoulder Hobo Day Bag-$23 from My Creative Threads

SALE-Striped Red and Green Handmade Card-$2.25 from The Paper Button

SALE-Flower Pendant Necklace set...Pearls and Autumn Jasper-$45 from Sue Runyon Designs

RU-486 Cartoon Editorial...

2009-07-24T07:58:00.000-07:00

Dana Summers, Orlando, FL-From the Orlando Sentinel.

Stop the Abortion Mandate....

2009-07-23T13:12:00.000-07:00

Abortion opponents know that the current health care reform proposals, if enacted, would be the largest expansion of abortion since Roe v. Wade. In just a few hours at 9 PM Eastern time (8 PM Central, 7 PM Mountain, 6 PM Pacific), over 23,000 people of faith and conscience and 70 pro-life and pro-family organizations will be gathering for a history-making nationwide webcast event.
www.StopTheAbortionMandate.com will be hosting this unprecedented event. The country must come together to fight the scourge of abortion and stop it from expanding through our health care system. This is a tremendous opportunity to do just that.

Who else is going to be at this event? Take a look at this list and you'll know why you will be in some of the best company our country has to offer:

* DR. JAMES DOBSON, Focus on the Family
* DR. CHARMAINE YOEST, Americans United for Life
* FR. FRANK PAVONE, Priests for Life
* TONY PERKINS, Family Research Council
* MARJORIE DANNENFELSER, Susan B. Anthony List
* DOUGLAS JOHNSON, National Right to Life Committee
* WENDY WRIGHT, Concerned Women for America
* TOM MINNERY, Focus on the Family
* KRISTEN DAY, Democrats for Life
* CONGRESSMAN CHRIS SMITH, New Jersey
* DR. RICHARD LAND, Southern Baptist Convention ERLC
* KRISTAN HAWKINS, Students for Life of America
* CONGRESSMAN JOE PITTS, Pennsylvania
* PEGGY HARTSHORN, Heartbeat International
* MELINDA DELAHOYDE, Care Net
* JIM SEDLAK, American Life League/STOPP
* DAY GARDNER, National Black Pro-Life Union
* BISHOP HARRY JACKSON, High Impact Leadership Coalition
* CARMEN PATE, Point of View Radio Show
* DAVID BEREIT, 40 Days for Life

Please get involved. The word is going out across the country and even Capitol Hill is talking about this event. And one of the goals is to max out tonight's webcast to show America that we are united and determined to stop the abortion industry from taking over our health care system.

Register at: www.StopTheAbortionMandate.com

And spread the word!!!

Miscarriage Loss...And Gain.

2009-07-21T07:14:00.000-07:00

I have neglected things here on the blog for a while. The primary reason was fatigue and sickness due to pregnancy. Then, at 12 weeks, we lost our little baby and I have been slowly recovering physically and emotionally from this very sad but beautiful journey.

We are a pro-life people in life and in death. We recognize that even our unborn child (only 2 inches long in life) lived for a purpose and we did our best to love him in life and treat him with dignity in death. Miscarriage is a loss...An empty womb. But recognizing the value of the life of my baby is a gain. I have a son forever!

As I've traveled this journey, it has become clear that many, many parents have already been down this same road and a great many will be where I walk. How can we deal with miscarriage as a pro-life people? I'd like to share some things that I have learned....

1. Do we deliver at home or the hospital?

There are certainly situations that require hospital delivery. Pregnancies that are far along or earlier pregnancies that show obvious signs of difficulty fall into that category. The desire to stay at home may meet with the necessity of greater medical care. But if a women does choose to go to the hospital, there are things she should be aware of.

Most doctors will throw away the body of a baby prior to 20 weeks simply because death certificates are not issued before that time. If you want the body of your child respected, then be prepared to fight for it. My midwife was very glad that I chose to stay at home. She described the process of trying to retrieve the baby from the hospital doctors as "difficult".

We delivered our baby at home and were able to see him and hold him. That's not possible for everyone, I know...But very worth it if it is a possibility. Stay in touch with your doctor regardless of your situation and be bold in defense of your preferences with regard to the body of your child.

2. Consider naming the baby.

During my personal grieving process, the greatest moment of healing came with naming our child. We did not know with certainty whether our baby was a boy or a girl but we took a leap and named him anyway. My husband chose the name Matthew. And in that naming I understood fully that I had a son. My arms were empty but my heart was full. My tears were a mixture of sadness and unquestionable joy as I imagined the meeting I would have with him some day.

I strongly encourage anyone who has lost a child (at any age) to consider naming him or her. It will bring you closer in love and knowledge to your little one and one step further in your healing.

3. What do we do with the baby's body?

This is not a simple question when the child is earlier than 20 weeks. Again, 20 weeks appears to be the cutoff age for a death certificate (at least in my state) and as I was told by an OB at the Catholic hospital in my area: "Honestly, they just throw them away before that...But I guess you could bury it in your backyard." She offered this directly after my loss and in response to my question about where I could bury my child. I made a mental note never to seek out this women for care!

Fortunately, many cemeteries will bury your little one regardless of age with a letter from your doctor (proof of pregnancy). A Catholic cemetery in our area will be burying Matthew, at no cost to us, in a special section dedicated to infants. They will also provide the headstone free of charge. It is a beautiful example of Christians walking the talk and I am profoundly grateful. We also had the option of burying him with a relative already at the cemetery and that would have cost us about $200.

The following photo was taken of a burial box that was lovingly made for Matthew by our friend, Jim Kelley. The box measures 11 x 7 x 6 and is constructed using pine. Not all cemeteries allow wood but our funeral director is providing a concrete enclosure for the box at no charge. Jim does not have a website but I will happily forward your information if you have an inquiry for him.

Contact your church leaders for any information they might have specific to your location.

4. Should we tell people about our loss?

Absolutely. Your baby's life was beautiful and worth remembering and honoring. By acknowledging the loss we are also acknowledging the life. Perhaps your example will inspire others to look at an unborn life in a new way. I hope and pray that mine has.

And if you are a member of a church, I strongly suggest having a memorial service or Mass which your friends and relatives can attend if they wish. My sister-in-law lost her baby 3 months before I did and we had one Mass said for both Matthew and Caeli (her baby). We did not advertise widely but our closest relatives and dearest friends attended. We were also surprised to see other members of our church who heard "through the grapevine" and wanted to lend their love and support. Our service was perfect and I will always carry that memory in my heart

5. How can I support someone who has experienced a miscarriage?

Please do follow your instinct and just love them as well as you can. There are so many ways to show support. I can list a few here but I'm sure there are many more. Please feel free to share additional ideas in the comments.

-Acknowledge the loss. Please don't ignore it. Set aside your own feelings of discomfort and offer your sympathy. Even if it seems to remind the mother of her grief, she will not be sorry that you have expressed your love. She may, however, notice if you seem to disregard her loss. And she will feel isolated and alone in her grief if none have the courage to walk with her.

-Ask if they've named the baby and use the name when speaking with and writing to them. If they haven't chosen a name, please remember not use the term "it" when referring to the child.

-Let her talk. Although a miscarriage seems "small" to others, it's a pretty big deal to the person it happens to. I am very blessed with people who allowed me to pour out my thoughts and feelings and I can see how difficult it would be to have no one.

-A miscarriage is like a mini labor. It can be physically exhausting, quite painful and sometimes rather lengthy, and does require a period of recovery. Consider sending a nutritious meal or offering to watch other children to allow mama that recovery time.

-Do send an expression of sympathy. A card is a beautiful way to let someone know you are thinking of them. I recently purchased several beautiful cards from Loss Remembered and unfortunately, have had occasion to use them all. I intend to purchase several more so that I never again delay or miss the opportunity to send a token of love and support.

-If you are close to the family or simply want to do something more, consider a small memorial gift. A personalized Christmas ornament is a lovely choice. A very close family member (husband or parent) might consider memorial jewelry for the mother. It is a beautiful way to honor the life and loss of her baby and her motherhood at the same time. The picture below shows a memorial cross that I purchased for my sister-in-law. It was handcrafted and personalized for her with her baby's name and a '2009' charm on the back by Totally Crosses.

This memorial necklace made by Peace of Mind is a personal and touching way to express support.

See Handmade for Life's list of jewelry artists to request custom work.

Other ideas include a memorial plant for their yard (such as a rose), a donation to a crisis pregnancy center in the baby's name, or a basket of pretty bath and body items to comfort and pamper mama.

-Pray for the family. A woman's grief often runs deeper than anyone can see. I have heard many stories in the last few weeks of women who suffered intensely after an early miscarriage and were offered no support from a spouse or family. Depression is common.

We live in a world where babies are throw-aways and a woman is so often expected to forget and move on quickly. The smaller the baby, the less we are supposed to grieve. But our pro-life hearts know that every life has an equal value and purpose and that we are called to love each and every one.

I offer the suffering of my loss in solidarity with all mothers who are victimized by abortion. I pray that they may find healing, consolation and forgiveness through the lives of their heavenly children.

Other Miscarriage resources:

Pregnancy Loss

Alveda King testifies about abortion and the civil rights movement...

2009-06-23T09:25:00.000-07:00

Alveda Kind, niece of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., gives her testimony about the pain of her abortion and how she found healing, as she speaks at a gathering of the Silent No More Awareness Campaign.

To see more testimonies from men and women who have made the choice to abort their children, now regret it and who are choosing to break their silence, please visit the Silent No More on YouTube.

Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep...

2009-06-11T08:26:00.000-07:00

I was introduced today to one of the most beautiful artistic ministries I have ever encountered. It is with great joy that I introduce you to the Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep Foundation. From their website:

Pregnancy and birth are miraculous journeys. This amazing time of life is full of mystery, anticipation, joy, hope, and wonder. Feeling the powerful energy of birth and new life, watching as a new family is born unto each other. These things humble and amaze. These are the things that we celebrate when a baby is born.

But there is another aspect of pregnancy and birth. There is an unexpected place in this journey where some families may find themselves. When a baby dies, a world is turned upside down. There is confusion, sadness, fear, and uncertainty that cannot be explained. There is sorrow where there should have been joy. During this time, it might be impossible for families to know what they might need in order to heal in the future.

This is the place where the Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep Foundation gently provides a helping hand and a healing heart. For families overcome by grief and pain, the idea of photographing their baby may not immediately occur to them. Offering gentle and beautiful photography services in a compassionate and sensitive manner is the heart of this organization. The soft, gentle heirloom photographs of these beautiful babies are an important part of the healing process. They allow families to honor and cherish their babies, and share the spirits of their lives.

Please watch the following feature that was broadcast on NBC's Today Show for a very real and powerful picture of the blessing and need for this ministry...And then follow the links below to learn how to contact NILMDTS and donate to their efforts.

Find out more about the Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep Foundation here at their website.

Find a photographer in your area here.

Donate to this worthy organization here.

Catholic Exchange features Handmade for Life...

2009-06-08T11:37:00.000-07:00

Catholic freelance writer, Ann McClure, has published a fantastic article about Handmade for Life on Today's Catholic Woman.

Read more about who we are and what we do here.

Thanks so much, Anne, for your continued support of our mission and the cause of life!

Building a Culture of Life in Alaska...

2009-06-07T17:39:00.000-07:00

I have recently had the pleasure of getting to know a little bit more about one of our Handmade for Life members. Shannon at Baruch's Lullaby is an Alaskan resident and fiber artist. She's not only privileged to live in one of the most beautiful locations in America but also to be a part of a fantastic pro-life effort centered in Wasilla.

Shannon has spent a great deal of time working with the HeartReach Pregnancy Center and has even dedicated a large portion of her own handiwork towards fundraising for their life-saving efforts. HeartReach is on the verge of acquiring an ultrasound machine for it's facility. Shannon writes:

"HeartReach Pregnancy Center in Wasilla is raising funds for ultrasound equipment and all of the particulars that go with such a program to support women and their families. Baruch's Lullaby has partnered with HeartReach and is donating 80% of sales from this section of the shop toward this project.

Or, you can go to the main page of the shop and on the right (under "Sections in this shop") click on the HEARTREACH BENEFIT. Spread the word! Pregnant moms deserve real options and truth, and ultrasounds go a long way toward delivering both."

The ultrasound machine is an extremely important tool for educating and saving lives in any pregnancy center but the best centers go a step further once the decision to accept the life of a child has been made. HeartReach provides valuable educational opportunities for new parents including health and nutrition classes, child care classes, and parenting classes. They also offer abortion recovery support, clothing for babies and expectant mothers and childbirth education classes in addition to their pregnancy testing, counseling and 24-hour hotline services.

They are the whole package. Pro-woman. Pro-child. Pro-family. Pro-life.

Thanks so much to Shannon at Baruch's Lullaby for all that she has given of herself to help others live full and beautiful lives. Please stop by her shop to help support HeartReach or visit their site to donate directly.

Pro-Life Paper...

2009-06-03T15:30:00.000-07:00

While cyber communities and email have become the preferred method of communicating for many, everyone loves to open their mailbox to find a handwritten note. We have many talented paper artists in Handmade for Life who can help you turn that small pleasure into a real delight to give and receive.

Handmade cards with original art and layers of beautiful paper. Original photography, plantable paper, and even designs for the guys...All handmade for every occasion. Many artists will also honor custom requests for cards, invitations and announcements. Their talent is at your service!

Check out our full list of Paper Artists here....

...And enjoy a few examples of their work that I've collected for you below...

Glad Spring Friends Card by klow

Baby Shower Card from Ellie Lee

Happily Ever After....by KLS Reflections

1 Timothy Card by Noah's Landing Art

You're So...Sweet by CardsbyEmily

The Testimony of Jane Roe...

2009-05-29T13:53:00.000-07:00

We all know the result of her testimony in the fateful 1973 Supreme Court decision in Roe vs. Wade. But have you seen her testimony since becoming a pro-life Christian?

Norma McCorvey (aka Jane Roe) is now telling the world about her decision to spend her life defending the lives of the unborn. She runs a pro-life ministry called Roe No More and you can read her testimony there. She was recently seen walking Notre Dame's campus arm-in-arm with Fr. Norman Weslin moments before his arrest for peacefully protesting the University's decision to honor President Obama.

It is possible to change the pro-abortion mentality of this country but it is going to happen one heart at a time. Thank you to Norma McCorvey for your message of inspiration and hope.

Bethany Kerr Fine Art...

2009-05-27T12:02:00.000-07:00

Handmade for Life has had a tremendous month of growth with 8 new member artists! I'm pleased to introduce one of our new fine artists to you today.

Bethany Kerr has a tremendous amount of talent and a real heart for Christ and for His little innocents. She's a homeschooling mom with 3 kids and married to "the sweetest man in the world" for 9 years. She also has two little blessings in Heaven. With her permission, I'm sharing an article that first appeared on Jill Stanek's blog. Please take some time out to enjoy reading and exploring the world of this woman of many loves and talents. We are proud to have her as part of our team.

Bethany's mission: Memorial sketches
by Bethany Kerr

Those who know me here know I draw portraits for a hobby.

But sometimes, it's more than just a hobby....

It seems this year, more than ever, I've been asked to sketch memorial portraits for people who have lost a child, a husband, a wife, or a friend. It is sobering, but at the same time it strengthens my faith, because through the years I have learned from people who have enough faith and character to turn their losses into gains for others.

I started doing memorial portraits in 2001 when a woman named Doris asked me if I could draw a picture of her son who had died. He had hydrancephaly.

I cried while first reading the story she sent me about her dear son, Andrew:
A few days before he passed away, Andrew got the flu.

The doctors said there was nothing they could do, and they would just have to let it run its course. The night before he passed away, Andrew's grandparents kept Andrew's sister, so his mommy and daddy could give Andrew their full attention because he was so ill.

That night, Andrew's mommy was writing something with a pen and Andrew said, "Mommy, write on my hand." (His grandpa would always draw on his hands and she said she used to always yell at them for that.)

Andrew's mommy smiled and on one hand she drew a heart and told him "Mommy will always love you" and on the other hand she drew a cross and told him "Jesus will always take care of you."

He was so proud of [the drawings] because he had never been allowed to do that before.

The next day he passed away due to aspiration unrelated to his hydrancephaly. He still had the heart and cross on his hand...
Upon his mother's request, the cross and heart were not taken off, and he was buried knowing his mommy would always love him and Jesus would always take care of him!

I drew 2 portraits of Andrew. It meant so much to his mother. Even though I know I could never repair the grief she's gone through in losing a child, I was thankful God gave me something I could do to give her a bit of comfort.

After drawing Andrew's portrait, I started getting more requests for memorial portraits. At first I wasn't sure whether I could emotionally handle doing these over and over. It seemed like orders came at once - sometimes none, sometimes 5-6 at a time. I couldn't turn them down.

Every time I created a memorial portrait, I was given the opportunity to meet someone exceptional, someone who had gone through one of the worst things imaginable and yet maintained a deep faith in God. I am learning so much from listening to everyone's stories.
I learned from Debra, who lost precious Isabel Hope at birth and yet praises God for His goodness and grace, and Laura, who lost her baby Sofija also at birth, and has used her story to comfort others. There are many more amazing people, too many to count.

I remember nearly every mother, child, friend, and relative by name, and their stories. I have a small number of them listed on my site's memorial page, Sketches by Bethany.

If you know anyone who has lost a loved one, I encourage you to take time and use whatever gifts God has given you to show them you care (especially with it being so soon after Mother's Day).

So many people are grieving silently and even something as small as a kind word can lift their spirits.

The Link Between Abortion and Breast Cancer...

2009-05-21T08:13:00.000-07:00

If there's one cause that has rallied America under it's banner it is the Pink Ribbon Campaign which is the effort to prevent and cure breast cancer. And while we walk and donate and educate about this tragic disease, most of America is in the dark about one of the highly preventable causes of breast cancer....Abortion.

In 1986, a government scientist wrote "Induced abortion before first term pregnancy increases the risk of breast cancer."

In 2003, the Association of American Physicians and Surgeons issued a statement calling on doctors to inform patients about the "highly plausible" relationship between abortion and breast cancer.

As of 2006, eight medical organizations recognized that abortion raises a woman's risk for breast cancer.

These facts which appear on the home page of the Coalition on Abortion/Breast Cancer are only the very tip of the iceberg. Dig a little deeper and the studies, statistics, and medical information start to take on volcanic proportions. But why is this information being suppressed?

The evidence suggests that exposing the link between abortion and breast cancer would damage the abortion industry and blow the cover on an industry that hides behind it's "safe and legal" mantra. The ABC site presents enough information to do that and more but it's fighting against an industry that depends on misinformation for it's survival.

I strongly encourage you to go to the Coalition's web site. Read everything you can there so that you can make this information your own and pass it on to others. We can't save everyone from cancer...But imagine if we could even save some. And don't all women have the right to be fully informed on the effects (short and long term) of a medical procedure on their own bodies?

Let's spread the word about the good work that the Coalition is doing. Their site is packed full of information that will help us do just that....

*Biological explanation: How abortion causes breast cancer
*Medical groups recognizing the link and quotes from the experts
*Abortion-Premature Birth link
*Bio-Ethics Journal: U.S. National Cancer Institute Covers up Abortion-Cancer Link

....To share just a little.

The Coalition also exposes the disturbing link between oral contraceptives and cancer. If the World Health Organization (WHO) classifies Oral Contraceptives as carcinogens, then why aren't we looking at their use more carefully?

They also add their voice to the mounting opposition to the Komen Foundation which has been identified repeatedly as a financial supporter of Planned Parenthood.

None of this information is easy to digest. We are asked to face and examine our own lives and actions in light of the knowledge that we are given and that can be a painful journey. But women have a right to be informed about the benefits or risks that are associated with medical procedures they receive and medication they ingest. They also have a right to know where their hard-earned money goes.

My deepest gratitude to people at the Coalition on Abortion/Breast Cancer for their courageous and tireless work for women!

Spring Flowers Etsy Contest...

2009-05-19T10:57:00.000-07:00

Handmade for Life's own Swan Mountain Soaps is featured in a new Etsy vote. Etsy wants to know:

"Which Flowers Make Your Garden Grow? Please vote for your favorite flower!"
Go HERE to vote!

It is so fantastic to see such a talented advocate for life being promoted in the mainstream Etsy venue. If you're an Etsy member, please give Swan Mountain Soaps your vote for her Spring Flowers soap trio! Voting is open for another 6 days.

If you've never tried handmade soap, you don't know what you've been missing! I took the leap several months ago and have never looked back. And supporting family businesses and pro-life artists is the icing on the cake!

Notre Dame Commencement Recap...

2009-05-18T08:02:00.000-07:00

But as the president began his commencement address, at least three protesters interrupted it. One yelled, "Stop killing our children!"

The graduates responded by chanting, "Yes we can," the slogan that became synonymous with Obama's presidential campaign.

~ Buffalo News, May 17

I know that many of us have been closely following the events at Notre Dame over the past few weeks and through commencement weekend. Unfortunately, much of the coverage that we have seen has been from major media outlets. I recommend taking some time to visit the blog of Jill Stanek for an excellent look into this historic event from the pro-life persepective.

www.jillstanek.com

Butterfly Kiss Crochet...

2009-05-16T06:27:00.000-07:00

One of the things that I love about Handmade for Life is that our members really do walk the talk. Getting to know the each one is a journey in itself...Discovering the beauty of each creative fingerprint and what drives their passion.

Kimberlyna is one of those artists whose work reflects the joy and passion of her heart.I have admired her crochet creations for a long time but was even more excited to discover what a warrior for life she is!

When you make a purchase from Butterfly Kiss Crochet, you are helping to build a culture of Life...

Kimberlyna is a client advocate at her local Pregnancy Care Center so she knows a thing or two about the challenge of loving mamas and babies in need. She was an integral part of an effort that raised $13,000 for the Center last year!

She is also a working mother to a beautiful little girl who has special needs. One of her goals is to build up her business enough so that she can become a stay-at-home mom to her "precious butterfly".

Along with her original handiwork, Kimberlyna also also sells Raggedy Ann dolls that were lovingly handcrafted by her late Grandmother Viola. I was absolutely smitten when I saw these and can't imagine the hours of labor that went into crafting them.

Kimberlyna has been crocheting since she was 10 years old, she loves crafting of all kinds and sewing beautiful aprons and dresses. She plays 11 instruments, loves anything Victorian, yearns for the countryside, and gives Jesus Christ all the glory for her talents.

Thank you, Kimberlyna, for sharing your gifts with us and giving so much of yourself for the unborn!

Little Soles...

2009-05-15T08:06:00.000-07:00

Creative inspiration comes in so many forms and I was recently introduced to a very special pro-life work of "art" that is unlike any I've seen...And touched me deeply.

Rosemary O'Connor and Ron Van Tassel of Kankakee, Illinois are the creators of the "Little Soles" display of 3500 baby shoes representing the number of innocents slaughtered each day by legalized abortion. Originally inspired by a display of shoes of the victims of Auschwitz, Rosemary and Ron have been presenting their work for the past eight years throughout Illinois churches, schools, and conferences as a "Project of Love, Forgiveness and Healing".

The goal of Little Soles is:

... to bring about changes to not only the hearts of women who may be contemplating an abortion, but also the hearts of men who may be encouraging them to have an abortion. We are interested in affecting people of all ages with a greater respect for life. In addition, we also reach out to women who may have been misled and are now struggling after having an abortion. We want them to know that there is hope and forgiveness through Jesus Christ.

How does one come up with thousands of baby shoes? Each pair of shoes has it's own history and have come from all over the United States. They have come singly and in groups and Rosemary and Ron have been privileged to know the learn about many of the little ones who wore them.

One sad grandparent donated two sets of shoes – a pair for a girl with a girl’s name tucked inside and one for a boy with a boy’s name tucked inside. She related that her grandchild was aborted and these were the names that had been selected for the child.

This donation included a shoe for a handicapped child with a brace...

Many of the shoes tell of generations of family history...

Although Rosemary and Ron do not travel outside of Illinois with the Little Soles display, it is their hope that others will be inspired to take a similar work in their own communities. Other ways to help this effort can be found on the Little Soles website.

My gratitude to Arlene from the Coalition on Abortion Breast Cancer for introducing me to this beautiful effort.

American Idol finale will feature pro-life ad...

2009-05-11T07:40:00.000-07:00

They've done it again! CatholicVote.org has produced another amazing video ad that has been accepted for broadcast on the final seasonal episode of American Idol. This beautiful ad promotes adoption by highlighting famous people who were adopted.

The first ad CatholicVote.org produced was initially accepted for broadcast during the 2009 Super Bowl but was ultimately rejected on the grounds that it included "political candidates or issues". Judge for yourself whether this beautiful and respectful video ad deserved the boot.

Wedding Day Adornments from Pro-Life Artists...

2009-05-06T06:52:00.000-07:00

Wedding season is upon us! Whether you're the bride looking for accessories for yourself and your bridesmaids or a wedding guest who needs just the right pair of earrings to go with your little black dress...You'll find some beautiful options in our Handmade for Life community. Check out our Jewelry Artists to see what we have to offer.

This necklace and hair comb set from Mum Mum's Jewelry are perfect for the bride's beautiful day!

Sue Runyon carries a lovely line of elegant jewelry and loves to create custom pieces for her customers.

With Love From Mom has created stunning jewelry designs for entire bridal parties!

Come celebrate the Grand Opening of Gentle Adornments new shop on Etsy with free shipping and a buy one, get one half off sale! She will customize her designs to match the color of your bridal party.

Here is a pair of bone, silver and quartz hair sticks from the lovely and talented LoriDelisle...

And I know that this one isn't exactly jewelry but I couldn't resist sharing this brand new design from EllieAnna Purse Company. She sells this sweet little clutch purse in many colors and I think it is just darling and perfect for any special occasion.

I obviously must stop somewhere for the purposes of this blog post but these selections are by no means the limit of what our shops have to offer. Grab a cup of tea, pull up a chair and visit with us a while!

Update on Cleveland Raffle...

2009-05-05T09:59:00.001-07:00

In January of this year, a number of our Handmade for Life members contributed their beautiful handiwork to a fundraising effort for the Cleveland Pregnancy Center. I expected that the basket raffle would be accomplished by Spring at the latest but I think that God has other plans...

From the beginning of this project, I knew that I wanted maximum exposure for your wonderful shops and also the maximum income for the CPC. After discussing the matter with my local pro-life group (which is absolutely committed to making this the best opportunity possible), I've decided to postpone the basket raffle until the Fall when several larger venues will be available.

And even though that means a longer wait, I believe it will be a much greater opportunity for the artists involved and the CPC.

Thanks so much for your patience!

Pro-life Mommy Brain...

2009-05-04T08:40:00.000-07:00

Thank you so much to Anne at the Catholic Mommy Brain blog for featuring Handmade for Life today!

You can read the feature here.

And don't forget to take a look around the rest of Anne's blog. When I read the following, I knew I was in a good place...

“Mommy brain” is a pop culture term implying that a woman’s brain functions less efficiently after she becomes a mother. Sometimes it sure seems to. But as more and more scientists and authors are pointing out, “mommy brain” shouldn’t be synonymous with a lack of intellectual thought. A mommy’s brain actually develops a way of thinking, feeling, and responding to the world that is literally caused by the physical act of pregnancy and mothering. It means the development of new registers of intuition, emotion, and cognition. (Anyone else regularly wake up just moments before the baby does, wondering what you’re waiting for until you hear that familiar whimper?)

What a beautiful way to write about the gift of femininity and motherhood! Pro-life is most often associated with the unborn baby. But we know that it also embraces and honors the beauty of motherhood, of family and of all that is life-building and good in the world.

What will it take to stir our hearts?

2009-04-30T15:28:00.000-07:00

The photograph you see in this brief video is of "Baby David" whose body was found by pro-life activists at a women's clinic in Houston. He was aborted at 28 weeks gestation in a D&E abortion (dilation and excavation) during which his head and arm were ripped from his body.

The activists (Debbie Huddnal and Chad Traywick) photographed Baby David in order to expose the violence he had suffered. When photo developers and police saw the photographs, they though a terrible crime had been committed. They searched the activists' home and only then did they discover that the violence done against Baby David was entirely LEGAL. The violence of abortion.

Police account covering the case prove the authenticity of this photograph.

Handmade for Life Treasury on Etsy...

2009-04-29T19:58:00.000-07:00

Etsy is a community of handmade sellers from around the world who come together as separate shops to share their creative fruits with the cyber world. For an artist/crafter it's a great place to be but naturally reflects the world view of the culture at large. That's why it is such a blessing to have a pro-life presence in the community there.

April marked the Handmade for Life Etsy Team's first official month on Etsy and it has been a time of wonderful growth and inspiration.

One of the opportunities that Etsy members have to showcase and promote other shops is to put together treasuries which are like little museums curated by individual sellers.

Lucy of Mum Mum's Crafts put together a wonderful treasury for our team today and I took a screen shot for your enjoyment! The treasuries expire after a couple of days but if you catch it in time you can find it here.

Kathy Ireland stands up for the Unborn...

2009-04-27T11:13:00.000-07:00

Supermodel Kathy Ireland on why she is pro-life:

"My entire life I was pro-choice — who was I to tell another woman what she could or couldn’t do with her body? But when I was 18, I became a Christian and I dove into the medical books, I dove into science," Ireland told Tarts while promoting her insightful new book "Real Solutions for Busy Mom: Your Guide to Success and Sanity."

"I called Planned Parenthood and begged them to give me their best argument and all they could come up with that it is really just a clump of cells and if you get it early enough it doesn’t even look like a baby. Well, we’re all clumps of cells and the unborn does not look like a baby the same way the baby does not look like a teenager, a teenager does not look like a senior citizen. That unborn baby looks exactly the way human beings are supposed to look at that stage of development. It doesn’t suddenly become a human being at a certain point in time," Ireland argued. "I’ve also asked leading scientists across our country to please show me some shred of evidence that the unborn is not a human being. I didn’t want to be pro-life, but this is not a woman’s rights issue but a human rights issue."

See the entire article here.

You can also see Ireland talking about her pro-life position with Mike Huckabee here.

Baby Big Mouth....

2009-04-24T08:26:00.000-07:00

I'm just waiting for someone I know to have a baby so that I have an excuse to shop with Baby Big Mouth. Not only are these onesies and T-shirts darling but they also shout a message of joy, hope and love of life.

Maggie is the heart and hands behind Baby Big Mouth and describes her business journey this way:

One day, while shopping for clothing for my baby, particularly onesies, I noticed that anything unique came with a hefty price tag. I’m one of those people with champagne taste on a beer budge, but then again, aren’t we all these days? Except now I think most of us are down to ordering just water. Anyways… that’s when I decided that I would try my hand at making my own designs. Good thing for my son they didn’t turn out so bad! Even a baby doesn’t like to be anyone's guinea pig : ) Once I put together some cute designs it occurred to me how much freedom I had to put anything I wanted on a onesie…so I invoked my right to freedom of speech and BABY BIG MOUTH was born.

On God and Life--Pro-life that is...

I realize not everyone will like the wording or subject matter on my onesie's. In fact, some folks may be down-right offended... but isn't that what makes our country so great? We all have the right to believe what we want to believe and say what we want to say... ah glorious, wonderful freedom. Thank you forefathers and veterans everywhere!

I love the word of God (aka - the Bible). His love for us is so clearly expressed from cover to cover. I'm inspired to write it everywhere within eyesight, so naturally I put it on my baby's shirts! I also have a deep passion to fight for the lives of unborn babies...hence the pro-life onesies. I created them with the deepest love and respect for all & only a pure desire to encourage everyone to CHOOSE LIFE!

For those of you who don't "jive" with what you see here...be nice...no hate mail, pleeeease. For those of you who are excited about stumbling upon BABY BIG MOUTH...I made these onesie's for you! Enjoy.

Maggie is such a wonderful addition to the Handmade for Life team and a source of constant inspiration to me. It is not always easy to be boldly pro-life in this culture and the support and example of people like her is so critical to building a healthy and vibrant community.

Thanks so much, Maggie, for all of the good work that you do!

You can shop with Baby Big Mouth (or just have a great time browsing) by visiting: www.BabyBigMouth.etsy.com

Pro-Life Video Contest for Kids...

2009-04-21T08:05:00.000-07:00

A couple of months ago, Lia, the young lady in this video, attracted a great deal of YouTube attention with her impressive pro-life video project. She's back again in the video below announcing a pro-life video contest for kids sponsored by the Susan B. Anthony List.

Abortion Recovery Awareness Month...

2009-04-16T08:03:00.000-07:00

I realize I'm a little late in the game on this one but it's still worth bringing to attention.

Abortion Recovery Awareness Month, sponsored by Abortion Recovery InterNational, was established in 2005 five with two key purposes:

1. to encourage and promote healing opportunities
2. to enlighten society to the aftermath of abortion on individuals and families.

From the ARIN website:

Abortion Recovery changes a person's life! Most abortion affective clients search out healing opportunities only when their pain becomes unbearable, they are triggered by something, or they are encouraged by a friend or family member to seek help. One of our goals at Abortion Recovery InterNational is to enlighten society by raising awareness of abortion and its aftermath. We also want to inform people of the recovery opportunities that are available world-wide....

Abortion Recovery Awareness Month is “secular-friendly.” It is FREE of condemnation, judgments or negative connotations. It has no political agenda. Abortion Recovery Awareness Month is full of compassion, grace and forgiveness… resulting in help, healing and hope! A celebration and renewal of someone’s life. Let's start by sharing those!

It's tempting to repost the entirety of their website because it is so full of important and useful information. But I don't need to recreate the wheel since they've already done it so well! Please visit the Abortion Recovery InterNational and abortionrecovery.org websites for fantastic abortion healing resources.

In addition to useful information and links, ARIN is also a great resource for awareness products. I love the idea of the D.R.O.P Card pictured below.

These signs are also a great opportunity to reach out...

And in the same spirit as our own Handmade for Life charism, ARIN offers a line of bracelets created for all those who have been touched by abortion. You can see one of these lovely pieces, the Recovery Bracelet, at the top of this post.

For additional (including faith-based) post-abortive resources, please visit:

Rachel's Vineyard
Bethesda Healing Ministry
After Abortion
Silent No More

Making Life Beautiful...

2009-04-13T11:05:00.000-07:00

One of the goals of Handmade for Life is to draw attention to the beauty and value of the created world. Our focus is the miracle of the unborn child...Defending the right of that beautiful Life to exist and to grow without violence. But that focus cannot help but branch out and extend to every aspect of life that is affected by attitudes and actions that can highlight the blessing of life.

When I need a little inspiration, I love to browse our HFL member sites and see what these good people have been working on. One of my long time favorites belongs to a glass artist on Etsy who has lent so much support and joy to this effort. She makes gorgeous handmade lampwork beads and jewelry and is always exploring new ways to communicate her passions through her art. Carol is a true gift to this community and I count it an honor to call her friend.

Carol first became involved in Handmade for Life when it was a seedling. I was expressing my desire to put together a collection of handmade items to raffle off in my community to raise money for my local CPC... Not only did she respond expressing her desire to contribute but she set to work immediately to come up with something very special for the occasion....

And Baby Carrie was born! A 100% handcrafted doll combining lampwork, crochet, and sewing arts. The photos here are not of Carrie but of the second doll (Sweet Angela) born of Carol's hands. I am still touched and inspired by the amount of time and effort that went into the donated doll...Made so lovingly even while knowing that it would be given away.

This photo shows the handmade "B-A-B-Y" beads that are attached to the custom crocheted bag made just for the doll.

Here is "Angela" nestled in her pretty crochet bag...Waiting for her new home!

Thanks so much, Carol! I am so grateful that babies and mamas will be blessed by the work of your hands!

Interdenominational prayer for life...

2009-04-10T11:47:00.000-07:00

(Pro-life prayer bracelet by Beads of Heaven)

A debilitating flaw of the American pro-life movement over the years has been it's tendency to fragment instead of unite. Instead of recognizing that we are all members of one body with different roles to play, the feet try to walk without the legs and the torso without the arms. Money struggles, power issues, personality differences...Failure to honor the fact that it is the different "charisms" of a body that give it the ability to accomplish a work.

At this critical time in our history, it is time to see ourselves as a healthy and vibrant body. We all have a work to do in this fight and I pray that this is the time to set aside all inconsequential differences and I am hopeful that it is happening.

In light of that hope, I would like to share a 30 Day Interdenominational Prayer for Life that is the fruit of the common effort of representatives of many Christian denominations and organizations.

Perhaps it can be of some use to you in your local efforts for life.

White House confirms receiving 2 million red envelopes!

2009-04-07T07:12:00.000-07:00

Back at the beginning of March, I wrote here about a pro-life work called the Red Envelope Project. The idea of the project is to send empty red envelopes to President Obama in order to send a message to him about the impact of his anti-life policies and hopefully, to inspire a change of heart.

Many thanks to Rebekah of JustLikeRebekah who provided us with a very inspiring update this morning. The White House mail office has confirmed that it has received over 2 million red envelopes calling it one of the largest letter campaign in 35 years!

When a White House mail worker was asked if he had seen a flood of red envelopes destined for the White House, he said, "Uh, yes...Believe me, they made it here."

Read the entire article here: World Net Daily

Thanks so much to all of you who took the time to fill out one of these envelopes. Spread the word and keep it coming! Our voice is being heard!