"Benevolent Bandit"

I LOVE LOVE LOVE this time of year. The weeks inbetween Thanksgiving and Christmas. Putting up the tree, decorating the house, baking up a storm, hot chocolate after playing outside in the snow (or just in the freezing cold with two little boys), and Christmas shopping!!! I actually do LOVE Christmas shopping. I don't mind the hustle and bustle....except in the parking lots. I am one of those people that will circle around and look for the "best" spot instead of just parking far away. I even send out a little prayer here and there....ok, maybe I do it more than I think because whenever we pull into a parking spot Caleb says, "Thank you Jesus for this spot."  So if I there was a way to shop without dealing with parking spots I would be all over it. ENTER CYBER MONDAY. I think last year was the first year I took advantage of this wonderful day. So Black Friday is the Friday after Thanksgiving....and Cyber Monday is that MONDAY. (So if you look at your calendar, that is in just 2 days!!! Yay!!!) There are tons of online deals and many places don't have shipping....so you really can shop from home without paying more, wasting gas, or circling a parking lot in prayer. Well, what could be better than finding great deals online?? Glad you asked. :)  What about getting great deals while at the same time helping others? making a difference? changing lives? You can do all of those things THIS MONDAY!!

My awesome friend Lauren (and former college roomie) is adopting! She is great mom to Izzy (her first adopted child) and Norrah (her biological child) and now they want to add another munchkin to the group through adoption. As you know, this is an expensive journey, so being the creative person that she is, she has formed a Cyber Monday fundraiser. I love this idea because everyone wins! Here are more details (I will just copy what she wrote so that it is all clear). :)

Here is the scoop:
" What could make Cyber Monday any better? Only one thing, BENEVOLENCE - or doing good - while making out like a bandit. SO, I think that will be our slogan "make out like a benevolent bandit." OR NOT.

Here is the deal: Come to LuAdopts (click HERE) on Cyber (Nov. 29th) to check out some of the cutest, coolest, most relaxing, enjoyable, loveable, amazing gifts of the season. We will offer great gifts from both local and distant vendors, business owners and artisans. The high retail-priced items will be offered on a silent auction basis. Which means you will leave a comment under the item of your choice stating what you are willing to pay for it. HIGHEST BIDDER WINS (even if the highest bid is well below retail value). For some of our midline or baseline gifts such as baby gear, gift cards and other great items we will host a raffle. Each entry will cost only $5 but the value of the items you are entering to win will be much more. The more you enter, the higher your chances of winning and the bigger your kindhearted donation.



I am guaranteeing you that there will be some amazing gift ideas hosted on LuAdopts Cyber Monday. You will not want to miss items like:



A Photo Session by the VERY TALENTED Photographer, Nicola Herring (includes 1 hour session, online proofing and $75 print credit) This gift will be in the form of a certificate that you can wrap and give to that lucky person in your life. AN AMAZING PRESENT. Or use it for yourself.



A Premier Jewelry Set (earrings, bracelet, necklace)



A 60-minute massage at Alicia's Massage and Wellness Center



A pie plate from Lion Paw Pottery.(Perfect for the Penn State Fan)



AND MY FAVORITE, handmade kids' items, like crocheted beanies, a nifty kiddie kitchen unlike any you have seen before, tutus and hair bands, frames, quilts. I am such a sucker for handmade.



There are adult gifts too like handcrafted wall hooks, stationary sets, gift cards to Pier1 and Target."


How cool right?? HERE is where you can see a sneak peek of these items. Be sure to check back HERE at LuAdopts on Sunday for all of the rules. I cannot wait for this fundraiser. It really will be fun and you will make out like a "benevolent bandit!"

The SOUND of Freedom

This post is just another example of how God can use anyone's talents to give a voice to the voiceless. It is obvious that lawyers, investigators, and social workers are capable of making a difference in the fight against modern day slavery. But what about artists? musicians? Well, the new "Freedom" cd is evidence that they can too. "Top musicians have united together for a single cause: IJM's work to bring rescue to victims of modern-day slavery, sex trafficking and other forms of violent oppression. Twenty-six of today's leading artists contributed songs to "Freedom," a new two-disc album that supports IJM's frontline work."

This CD is only $5 and every purchase helps IJM with the rescue and aftercare of victims of oppression. Personally, I love music and cannot wait for my CD to arrive. It is even a better feeling knowing that my CD purchase is for an amazing cause. What a perfect gift too? And a unique way to spread the word to so many that have never heard of this issue.

You can read more about the artists/song list HERE at IJM's website.

If you are ready to buy your CD, just go HERE.

On a similar note....my good friend Rachael from RedRoverStyle.com (a lifestyle and charity magazine that brings people together to dialogue and network with philanthropists and charities) is coming along side Rescued and Redeemed Ministries to host a Dinner and Live music Benefit to raise awareness about DOMESTIC minor sex trafficking.  It always blows my mind that this is taking place in our own backyards....but whether we are aware of it or not, it IS taking place.  Rescued and Redeemed Ministries is a non-profit organization raising public awareness on domestic minor sex-trafficking "through events that provide advocacy, education and training. RRM works alongside with law enforcement officers to provide self-defense training for girls between the ages of 13-22 years old. RRM is also working towards establishing a safe house for victims of sex-trafficking that would be the first faith-based house of its kind in the state of New Jersey." Read more about them HERE.

What better way to make a difference than by simply eating a nice dinner and listening to live music with your friends? This benefit dinner will be help on November 19th in Red Bank, NJ! Go HERE to order tickets.

“…Seek justice. Help the oppressed. Defend the cause of orphans. Fight for the rights of widows.” Isaiah 1:17


Here is a sneak peak at two of the songs on the FREEDOM CD. Happy listening. :) (I tried looking up a lot of the songs, but most of them weren't on You Tube....or at least the ones I was searching for. :) 

Chocolate Slavery

I am contributing to child slavery?? Never thought about it like that until recently. I know that kids are sold, taken, and tricked into working in horrible conditions, but most of the things I think about are brick kilns or other slave camps like that. BUT in reality there are thousands of children along the Ivory Coast in Africa suffering all so that I can enjoy my chocolate at a cheap price. It used to be that only the wealthy could afford chocolate, but now we can get it for almost nothing and we can have it whenever we want it....makes you wonder why? Kids as young as 5 years old are being beaten each day. It really is pointless, especially since there IS fair trade chocolate out there. Yes, it is more expensive. BUT I think I can afford to pay more when I am guarenteed that slavery and harsh conditions weren't involved in its production. There are so many places to get Fair Trade chocolate now, so it really is just a decision I have to make and hope that you will make with me. I am also going to look for the email addresses of Hershey, Mars, Nestle, and M&M. They need to know that we are aware of what is going on, their lack of effort to CHANGE the way they use children, and that we will no longer buy their products if something isn't done. Hmmm, something to email ELLEN about. :) HA.

REVERSE Trick Or treating

So I was sent an email today from Not For Sale Campaign (LOVE THEM!) and there was such a cool idea inside that I had to just share it. Global Exchange is having their 3rd annual "Reverse Trick or Treating" campaign. Here is how it works. As you walk your children around to get their goodies, YOU or YOUR CHILD hands the adult answering their door a piece of fair trade chocolate and a piece of paper that explains a little bit about the slavery and harsh conditions surrounding the chocolate industry. For those who don't walk house to house, you can give these treats (with info) out to those who come to your house. This is such a simple way to make people more away of what is going on. Watch a little girl "Reverse Trick or Treat" HERE. If you order by TOMORROW (Oct 8th) than you get a kit FREE!!! Go HERE to do it, I just did. :) Or you can purchase your own Fair Trade chocolate and attach your own informational card. Either way, you are still raising awareness. And believe me, there are so many people out there that have no idea what goes on behind the scenes for these kids in the cocoa fields.

There is also ANOTHER campaign going on along the same lines. This one involves one of my FAVORITE chocolate companies...HERSHEY!!! So back in 2001 Hershey and other leading chocolate companies committed to take “immediate action for the elimination of the worst forms of child labor” to end this nightmare by 2005.  WELL, it is now 2010 and not much has changed. Come on Hershey!! You can read more about it HERE. Join the Raise the Bar Campaign, demanding that Hershey bring an end

to this abuse. I mean, they are Hershey, a HUGE corporation...they CAN afford to do this....especially since they pride themselves on supporting children. The few steps suggested are to write an email to Hershey, host a screening of the Dark Side of Chocolate (trailer HERE), and switch to Fair Trade Chocolate. Not too bad! :)

What a good idea!!

So I was just "surfing the web," not planning on blogging, BUT this was just too good. Again, there is always a way to help out. And yet again, it is an easy way for anyone to help. Polaris Project is a non-profit organization combating human trafficking and modern-day slavery. They work with victims of sex trafficking and labor trafficking within the U.S. Well, Polaris Project set up a registry through Target to furnish the apartments of trafficking survivors. How cool (and simple) is that?? HERE is where we can all help out in such a practical way!

Any Talent Can be Used

It seems that every time I turn around, someone has another great idea about how to raise money or make people aware of the reality of sex trafficking and other injustices taking place in our world (and our own backyards). The article HERE talks about a Christian singer, Natalie Grant, and how she is using her singing talents to make a difference. (Man, I wish I sould sing! ) :)

Par-tay in (central) PA!!

Ok, I have totally been MIA this summer. Maybe that means we have been outside so much that I don't have time to sit on a computer? (Heat wave after heat wave would make that statement false). Maybe morning sickness, which really means evening sickness in my body set in each night this summer and the last thing I wanted to do was research?? (Yes, that would be totally correct). So now that I am feeling more like a human being, it is time to start blogging again. There are so many topics that have I have been wanting to write about all summer....so now I just have to buckle down. (maybe in September though).

FOR NOW, I wanted to invite you to another Party with a Purpose, but this time it will be hosted by the wonderful Heidi Mitchell in Central PA (New Cumberland to be exact)!!  It will be Saturday, September 18th from 7pm to 9pm. We will be learning more about the sex trade industry and what we can do to help innocent women and children caught in this modern day slavery.

Of course there will be food, chocolate, fun, chocolate, fellowship, and some chocolate. You are more than welcome to bring a friend!!!

Biggest Flop of World Cup

The girls were flown in. The pimps were standing by. The journalists were ready to report. And advocacy groups were ready to spread the word. Leading up the World Cup, I read several articles that documented the dramatic increase in sex trafficking in countries hosting this huge event. It really made me upset to think that there seems to be no place that traffickers leave alone. Can't they just let us enjoy a sporting event? In response to these fears, Not For Sale set up a "Red Card Campaign." They handed out red cards (the biggest offense in soccer) with statisics and Not For Sale's website on them. The video below shows a bit of their work.


Well, the World Cup is officially over and the results are in! The sex business actually suffered a LOSS over the past month!! Who would have thought? I don't know exactly why. I read one article that thought perhaps it was the remote location of South Africa. Not really sure. Perhaps it was the Red Card Campaign?? Not sure either. But I am hoping and praying that this trend continues for future games! HERE is an article you can read that has more information on this big "defeat."

High Heel a What?

I will keep this short. I want to do THIS to raise money for two organizations: IJM and LOVE146. The only problem is, it just might be too big of a task for me to plan on my own. So when I say I need your help, I don't mean I need moral support. I need actual PEOPLE who will sit down with me and plan this and make it happen. I have all of the will and drive to do it (trust me) but I just need "man" power. If you didn't click on the link above, it is an article about one of the many High Heel A Thons that people host to raise money and awareness about causes that are important to them. I think that this would be so do-able (and FUN)!  I am thinking sometime in the fall...possibly end of September or sometime in October before it gets too cold and close to holidays. I can't do it by myself. I have ideas and some plans written out, but more heads are better than this one. :)

Ta-Da!!!

Dan and I were JUST talking last week about how we would really love to know if the products we are buying are made "on the backs slaves" or not.  Buying in America, or at least in my middle class-on a budget world, revolves around finding the best deal. Well, now that we are finding out how many products are made by slaves, we would love to make informed decisions when buying. It may cost us more money, but at least it won't be costing others their lives. That's our little decision and then, TA-DA, there is a book that does exactly what we wanted. It is called The Better World Shopping Guide. You can read more about it HERE. Basically, it (in their words) tells you which companies and products are the "good guys" and which ones are the "bad guys". I am really hoping that some of my favorite places to get "cheap things" aren't on the list! We shall see!

Partied with a Purpose!

What an awesome night! Last night was the film screening/fair trade/anti-slavery party. AKA: Party with a Purpose. Leading up to last night, I had so many emotions. The initial planning phase was of course optiministic and dreamy. :) However, as the days passed I started to feel discouraged. I was afraid no one would be able to come and that those who could come would wonder why I threw such an event. It was not until about 30 minutes before guests arrived (when I was in the shower) that I officially gave the party over to God to do with it what he wanted. During my "discouragement days" I was praying for the party and wondering if I should just cancel. I thought maybe I just needed more help or time or some other excuse. Looking back, I realize that when you are doing something that God calls you to, attacks like that will happen because Satan obviously wants this business of slavery to continue. Anyway, I had such peace taking that shower ( and if any of you know me, you know that the shower is my favorite place and the place where I usually come up with ideas). So I knew the party was going to be a success at that moment with my Dove Shampoo.

        I posted some pictures below of the party. Overall, we ate lots of goodies, laughed a ton, watched "At the End of Slavery" from IJM, and came up with some fresh and creative ideas to move forward NOW that WE KNOW! See, our knowledge is causing action!!! :)   I REALLY want to take these ideas and keep going! I don't want them just to be plans that stay on a piece of paper. I also cannot accomplish these by myself. So if you can help, LET ME KNOW!

        The ideas ranged from fundraisers (like a heel-a thon) to film screenings at Burlap and Bean (a local coffee shop). We also talked about having the Trade As One merchandise at local cafe's and bookstores. I laid in bed after the party and couldn't stop talking about the possibilites with Dan, who eventually told me I had to stop talking so that we could sleep for a few hours. :) I want to start planning ASAP.

    The other thing I want to do is host more Parties with a Purpose. Obviously, I cannot keep having them at my house with the same friends and family (I would actually love to do that because I love everyone that came, but that might get a little redundant) :) I say all that to then say that if you want to have one of these parties at YOUR house just let me know. And I will bring all the goods and info!

  Ok, lastly, if you couldn't come to the party and there is something that you want from TradeAsOne, let me know by Wednesday. I will be putting together the order (and then you won't have to pay shipping). I will just get the item to you as soon as I see you! Otherwise, if you live far far away you can just order on your own and spread the word to friends and family so that more people can make a difference.

     THANK YOU to all that came last night. I can't wait to get started on the next event!! (oh and take notice of the red bowl holding the chocolate..how cute! You can get that at TradeAsOne too!!  See if you can find the youngest guest at the party! She was a trooper!)

Unfortunately...

So with my Party with a Purpose only 2 days away, I figured I should work on getting ready for that and just post a little video. This is a video about a young girl and her experience in a brothel. As a read more and more, I am still not sure that I understand how real this all is. I believe what I am reading, but cannot truly grasp the reality of the situation. Unfortunately, it is all TOO REAL.


(I couldn't embed the video so go HERE and then scroll down. You will see the video on left). No one should go through what this girl, and many others, have gone through. Especially children.

Sportin the Goods ;)

This post will mainly just be a picture of "someone" wearing a piece from Nightlight. :)  I love this piece in general, but I also love that if I get a compliment about it I can SPREAD THE WORD. I recently was able to share with a friend of mine who had never heard of child sex trafficking EVER.  It was more concrete being able to tell her the facts and literally show her a necklace made by girls that have been rescued from that nightmare. Praise God!!!! So anyway, this is one of the necklaces from my last post "Mom Jeans".

Mom Jeans!

One of my fears about becoming a mom a few years ago centered around me somehow getting caught up in all of the spit up, poopy diapers, time-outs, pink eye, and then next thing I know I am running out to K-Mart to pick up a pair of classic "mom jeans." Ok, maybe I wouldn't go that far, but in the back of my mind, I have held fast to not choosing things to wear simply "because I am a mom now." This applies to the jewelry I wear too. I don't want to look like I am 14 and won a shopping spree to Claire's or Icing, but I also don't want to look like I stole my Nonnie's jewelry box. (Actually, she has some cute stuff and vintage is so in right now) ANYWAY, now that Mother's Day is approaching (less than 3 weeks), let's not insult ourselves or our moms that we are buying for. Let's stay young, "hip", and wear jewelry that has a story behind it. Here are a few inspiring pieces that I loved. By the way, all of this looks super awesome with sweats and mom jeans.....just saying.

Just Clicked...

Wow, I think that I update this blog every night....in my head. Too bad I can't just send my thoughts through the computer! There are so many things that I think about writing and just never get around to it. So finally, I am going to write about one of my recent thoughts (spurred by a new advocate friend). The topic of pimps. I have written about them before. Basically, that post was about praying for pimps. Which sounds weird, but really, if their hearts can be changed (and I completely feel that they can) than this issue wouldn't be here. Anyway, there was some celebrity hype recently between Demi Moore and Kim Kardashian. You can read the article HERE. The whole "argument" happened over Twitter and centered around the use or misuse/overuse of the word pimp. Which got me thinking. At first, I read the article and thought, "What's the big deal? People say pimp all the time. Pimp my...everything." But that IS the problem. We are so desensytized to the word that we really aren't thinking about the true definition of a pimp.When I was teaching, several boys dressed up as pimps for Halloween. What are we doing??? It is scary that we know what a pimp is and what they do to women and young girls, but because we glorify the "character" of a pimp in songs, movies, T.V., etc. we begin to forget the REAL lifestyle behind the word. Totally made me sit and think.

This is a little bit random, but still on topic. (This is totally the "just clicked" section). So as I was thinking about pimps, I remembered my highschool senior class trip to the Dominican Republic. The trip was amazing. We stayed at a place called Casa de Campo. It was beautiful....basically a dream for 55 eighteen year olds. (Yes, we had a tiny class).  Anyway!  One night, at one of the boys' houses, a real pimp knocked at the door offering services to the guys. Of course he was turned away (I am assuming first by the chaperone), but we all laughed about it for a long time. I didn't even think about how sad that really was. Not until the past few years did I learn that the Dominican Republic has a huge sex trafficking ring. What if that girl was there against her will?? I can't believe it now that I think back on that.

Well, going back to earlier. Pimps are real. They are lost and they need Christ to change their hearts. Here is an interview with a pimp. There is really nothing cool about pimps after hearing his experience in that lifestyle. I wish that someone would write a song about true "big pimpin" and show what really goes on.

Chocolate!

Ok, I love chocolate. I didn't really when I was younger. Not even all that much when I was in college, but when I became a teacher I couldn't get enough of it. (Don't really know what the sudden change was..but I am ok with that).  So when I saw that I could buy chocolate made from cocoa beans where the workers earn a fair wage and are treated respectfully and fairly I was super excited. You can read more about that HERE to know exactly what I mean. Well, it arrived in the mail today and I am in big trouble. This is the BEST! I have 9  bars HERE in my kitchen that I am supposed to serve at my party, but I am now fearing that I may be buying more before then. Ok, there are really 8 now. So if you are looking for some yummy Easter chocolate for your kids, friends, parents, coworkers, Sunday school teachers, or YOURSELF than I totally think it is worth it!! It only takes a few days to arrive too, which is perfect. So whether it is for Easter, a party, date night at home, or just for no reason other than to indulge in a yummy treat, I suggest you get your hands on this. Next to try is the dark chocolate with raspberry. I'll let you know how that is!  They would make a great hot chocolate....hmmm..... :)

Film Screening Party!!

Ok, before my plans start changing again, I am going to have this party. The date is set, Saturday, May 15th. I was thinking recently and talking to my friend Jessica and totally realize that this is a VERY busy time of the year. I can easily count 6 people that I know that are having babies right before this event, BUT i know that if I don't at least TRY to do this, it may never happen. So even if it is just me and one other person, it will be worth it. The great thing about this party is that it isn't a fundraiser. What?? Yeah, that's what I said. Originally, I was in "fundraiser mode." BUT after a lot of prayer and thought, my new plan emerged....which is a lot less pressure to start out. (Fundraisers will be in the future...and they will require more help, so maybe you can help me??) So anyway, about this party in May.
Instead of holding it like a typical jewelry party, it is going to simply be a film screening with lots of food and chatting and if you feel led to purchase something from Trade as One to help girls who were trafficked or others who are now working for a fair trade company you may. If you just want to view the film and take some information to pray about and think about, that is just as good!! I want this night to simply be the planting of a seed. Just learn, learn, and learn. I am hoping that some people take the information and start their own "action steps" about making others aware of some of the injustices happening under our noses. So that's my little plan. So I hope that if you can come that you will.

Oh, did I mention that it will be at my house? I may have said that in a previous post. It is official now!!! Let's start small and see what God does from here. :) Here is a trailer for the film, At the End of Slavery from International Justice Mission. (It is a short film, so there will be lots of time to hang out too!)




Did I mention that when you bring a friend you can win a giveaway prize? So just bring one friend and you could win a yummy (fair trade) treat or a cool piece of jewelry (of course another fair trade item).

Off Topic...but important.

It feels like forever since the last time I have written on here. So much has seemed to happen over the last couple of weeks. One thing that I want to write about doesn't really fit the "theme" of this blog, but since it is my blog I figure that I can write about it too, right? A few days after my last post, a friend of mine was killed. His death was shocking and has really just had me in a state of....deep thought? I don't really know how to put it. He was a great guy, who accomplished so much in only 28 years of life, and I have just really had so many feelings recently about the situation. The reason I am sharing this is to ask for your prayers. His family is grieving right now and there really are no words that can comfort them at this point. Prayer is sometimes the only thing that we can do in these cases....just like I've felt with the issue of sex trafficking. Prayer is more powerful than we will ever know. So this blog is really just a request that you pray for Daniel's family, specifically his mom and brother. Thank you so much. I will attach the news clip so that you have some understanding of the situation that you are praying about. Thanks again.

 

Instant Action

Is it considered a post if I just put up a video? (Can you tell that I love these?) Sometimes seeing gets through to me more than reading. I don't know why. Anyway, this video is like a "P.S." to my last post. It is an easy action step that people can take if you just don't know where to begin. I talk about it a lot. Trade as One...a christian, fair trade organization, who just like you and me wants to help with the issue of injustice. Their simple way is just by buying stuff that you would buy anyway...only this time, your purchase will change lives. I am currently making a list of ways that I can spread the word about injustice and then act on it to make a difference...a lot of the ideas are fundraisers. However, in the meantime, this way is the most "spontaneous" if you will. :) Instant action!! (Ok, so in the end I didn't just post a video. I knew I would have to say something. :) Oh, and keep in the back of your minds the following tentative dates for a film screening/fair trade/justice party (love the name? eek! Not very catchy..I will have to think about that one. Anyway! Friday, April 30th....Saturday, May 1st......Friday, May 7th..... or May 14th or 15th (a Friday and Saturday). The party would be from 7PM-9PM. ) Not sure if Fridays or Saturday work better for people. Let me know, even if it's just your opinion. Ok, back to what I was talking about....

When you go to trade as One's website HERE, be sure to click on SHOP and look at their cute little package deal there in the picture. It is a sweet little deal for these snowy days. Coffee, chocolate, adorable mug and an awesome book, Good News About Injustice written by Gary Haugen, the CEO and founder of IJM.

Are YOU called?

So lately I have been thinking about how more and more people are educating others about human trafficking. It is all too lucrative of a business, but it seemed hidden for so long. So now that we are learning more about it, what's next? I have said this before, but when I really sit and think about it, I get overwhelmed and a bit hopeless thinking that there is no way to stop such a money maker. There are plenty of girls out there and plenty of men who want to take advantage of them. So do we all just give up ? Will praying even do anything? Well, I had the privelege of attending a meeting with a staff member from IJM. During this meeting, she pointed out many practical things. She reminded me that this isn't all about the specific "issue," it is about what God has CALLED His people to do since the beginning of time. This is not just her idea or what Christians say, it is evident in the Bible. I don't ever want to get caught up in just the issue. There are so many forms of injustice in our world (trafficking, slavery, sexual violence, etc.) They are all important and God does not ask us to pick just one that we feel drawn to and then ignore the others. My heart has been broken for those who are a part of sex trafficking, especially children, but even before this meeting I have been feeling God's calling to help seek justice for all who are suffering. Micah 6:8 spells it out as blunt as it gets, " He has shown you, O people, what is good and what the Lord requires of you; but to do justice, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God." It is right there in His word. He has shown us what IS good and what is REQUIRED of us. Not, do it if you feel like you can handle it...because I don't think many of us feel like we can. I know I don't. I can't. Not on my own anyway. Basically, this meeting explored many scripture verses that show God's heart toward injustice and his commands to us. So as I get overwhelmed, and you may too, we have to have faith that God is aware of the evil in this world and He is using us to make a change. Just a reminder....God never calls us without equipping us first. I don't know why I sometimes don't fully "believe" that. I know He will....we see it over and over in the Bible. He equipped all that he called. " Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified;do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9 So I am getting educated...good first step. Next step is to explore and take some action. I am still planning on having a fundraiser/jewelry party in May (whether this is held at my church or just at my house is still unknown), but I am learning that there are more and more ways to help. I am looking into this currently through IJM, but there are many other organizations that are looking for volunteers. God has called us ALL to seek justice. Now it is up to us to trust that He will equip us as we take the next step. I would love to hear of some organizations and practical ways that you may be helping out. Check out some of the ways to take action below.

HERE are some action steps through IJM.
HERE are some action steps through Polaris Project (click on the "Take Action" tab for more)
HERE are some action steps through History Starts Now (my good friend, Rachael, is the co-founder and program director. It is such a great group.)

I Love LOVE!

Ok, so it's Valentine's Day (almost). I have always loved this day. When I was younger, my dad would would always get me a card, some candy, and a piece of jewelry to celebrate. It was his little silent way of telling me that he loved me. He was my protector and I knew it without him even having to say a word. I actually don't remember him telling me the words, "I love you," that often, but he really didn't need to. His actions made that truth evident. When I got married, my husband took on the role of "being my valentine." (He has done a great job by the way). We usually celebrate by going bowling, rock climbing, renting a movie, or just getting some ice cream. Now that we have kids, I try to get them involved in this day too. They are my little valentines! We bake cookies for Daddy, make him cards, and write notes on all the mirrors around the house telling him why we love him so much. Even though Valentine's day has turned into a way for retailers to make a ton of money on ugly heart jewelry and boxed chocolates, I still LOVE the idea of setting aside a day to tell or show your loved ones how much you love them! I guess having felt love from my dad, friends, husband, my boys, and MY GOD I never really sat down and thought about not knowing love. I can't even imagine. Young boys and girls around the globe have such a warped view of "love." How can you know true love if you were sold by your own parents? How can you know true love if your protector (AKA pimp), abuses you and allows others to do the same without conviction. The only true hope today for these girls is God's love. I pray that He reveals that love to them and that even in the midst of their circumstances that they would know that God loves them and that his people (that's us!) are starting to help in any way we can. We should all know what it feels like to be loved. It is so comforting. I strongly believe that these girls will SOON know what true love is. First from Jesus Christ and eventually from a loving husband. Show some love this Valentine's day! Appreciate those you love and those that love you! We are so blessed. Also, be constantly thinking of ways that we can show love to an unloved group of people. If you have any ideas, I would love to hear them!

My Money Does What?

Voting this week for Holly's Love 146 fundraiser made me want to "blog" about something I have thought about in the past and you probably have too. Where does all the donation money go? Holly and her husband are donating to an organization named Love146 that is fighting to end child sex trafficking. So what does their money really do? This post stems from my curiosity. When I first got involved in researching and wanting to make other people aware of these crimes, I wanted to help make a change. So I decided to just start by donating. BUT I didn't know where to give or what "they" would do with my money. I have explained in previous posts what the Hagar Project, Rahab Bazaar, and Nightlight (products sold through Trade as One website) do with their money. Read HERE for details. Another organization that I love is International Justice Mission. They focus much of their work on the legal end of social injustice (of all kinds), not just child sex trafficking. There are so many countries that have corrupt law enforcement and legal systems. This is when it is necessary for organizations like IJM to step in in order to make any change possible. Most of these organizations...such as IJM, Love 146, World Vision, History Starts Now, etc. depend on donations to "spread the word" about sex trafficking, pay for the resources needed to build and execute cases against these traffickers, and finally fund the aftercare projects set up to rehabilitate these chilren and young women when they are rescued. So much "baggage" comes with being rescued. It would be unfair to simply remove them from the bars and brothels without helping them form a "normal" life. With all of that said, every little bit counts. The abolitionists in these organizations do more than we know. They need our little or large donations in order to raise awareness, legally rescue girls, and then for aftercare. Thank you to everyone that voted through Holly's blog this week. Each vote made a difference! :) Keep checking back for more ways to help! Easy right?

Just Vote! It's that Simple! "Spread the LOVE, Spread The WORD"

It couldn't be any easier! In my last post, I mentioned that my friend Holly was going to be starting a fundraiser for children caught in sex trafficking. Well, today is the day! All of the details can be found HERE. (Background info, rules, prizes!) The best part is....all you have to do is VOTE on your favorite "web card" designed by Holly (an awesome photographer...look HERE) and SHE will be donating $0.50 to Love146. Love146 is another great organization that is working towards the abolition of child sex trafficking. I urge you to take 50 seconds to place your vote (and that is it!) You will also have the chance of winning some really COOL PRIZES. There is really no reason NOT to vote if you ask me! :) The hardest part will be choosing which "web card" you like the most. They are all so creative. Happy Voting!

Solutions Exist

Thinking about human trafficking just overwhelms me. I don't see an end or that any solutions exist. When those thoughts flood my mind I am instantly reminded to PRAY. Even though we don't live in Cambodia, Thailand, Haiti, or any other country where this crime is "accepted," we do live in America where we CAN stand up for those who don't have a voice. We can do it in simple ways, like my friend Holly will be doing next week with a fundraiser that YOU can be a part of (more to come on that in a few days). Or we can be a part of IJM's (International Justice Mission) Advocacy Days. Both of these are simple solutions that can help make others aware of this GROWING problem and hopefully make a change. I will be letting you know more about Holly's FUNdraiser (easy, simple, and fun-fundraiser next week). Also, watch the 2nd video below to find out more about advocacy days through IJM and let me know if you might be interested in getting involved!

IJM - Reality of Human Trafficking from International Justice Mission on Vimeo.

IJM 2010 Advocacy Day from International Justice Mission on Vimeo.

Would YOU come???

So the plans are getting a little clearer. The key word is LITTLE. I am thinking about a film screening event for women. :) I don't think that we all grasp the reality that these girls live. Therefore, seeing it on film will really open our eyes. So, the thought is to view a film on hman sex trafficking and then have an opportunity to help out! What better way to help than shop?? It sounds easy to me. So this is the general plan. SOOO many more details to be worked out. BUT one of the things I have to know is WILL YOU COME??? I am thinking sometime in May. I hope that you will! I will leave you with this quote from the book, Not For Sale. " We often look at heroes and think, 'I so admire who they are, but I could never do what they do.' The truth is that a heroic path usually begins with a humble act that opens a gate into a new universe."

Here is a little clip about Nightlight...one of the "producers" that makes the jewelry that Trade as One sells on their website and will be sold at the film screening event. :)

And Now Haiti...

Well, maybe I shouldn't say and "now" because it has been going on for years over there. I remember 2 years ago when my husband went down to the Dominican Republic he came home and told me about the slavery taking place in the D.R. and Haiti. Many Dominicans had Haitian slaves! I was shocked because I had not heard much about modern day slavery at that point. I also didn't know that any of it was sex slavery. NOW, more than ever, Haiti needs help. They need it in many ways after the earthquake, but with countless children walking around with no home or adult to protect them, human traffickers are salivating with the thought of fresh "free products" at their fingertips. Like these kids haven't already been through enough. Honestly, I just want to call up Haiti and have them send me all of the children that need homes and let me take care of the rest. Ok, so maybe I can't do that. I just feel hopeless knowing that this doesn't have to happen. I have a link below (which you may have to copy and paste, sorry) that tells a little bit more about this. Please read it until the end (it is short) but it is eye opening. Pray for Haiti, pray for these innocent children whose lives are about to change even more, and again as hard as it is (believe me I KNOW) pray for these traffickers who are destroying so many lives for the love of money.

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,583709,00.html

Got 5 minutes?

" All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men (and women) do nothing." Edmund Burke

Praying for Pimps?

So as I think about raising funds for these girls (and boys), I am constantly praying for them. I cannot imagine what they are going through, what they are thinking each time they encounter a new "client", and how in the world they will recover if and when they are rescued. Recently, I was reading my Bible and BAM, a verse that I was reading really stood out. Now, I know that it was written by Paul to the Christians in Colosse, but the principle can be applied to these pimps too. "Once, you were alienated from God and were enemies in your mind because of your evil behavior. But now he has reconciled you by Christ's physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation." (Colossians 1:21-22) There is a part of me that doesn't care about these men and women that force girls to be sex slaves at such young ages. However, there is another part of me that knows that God (somehow) loves them and died for them...just like all of us law abiding citizens. As I continue to pray for these girls, their families, and abolitionists, I am going to commit to praying for all of the criminals behind this "business." I pray that their eyes will be open to what they are doing and the hurt that they are causing. God can do amazing things. This is by no means beyond his capabilities.

HELP!!!!

My poor husband. For months now, he has had to listen to me share depressing story after depressing story about the unfortunate life of those caught up in the sex trade. He agrees though that as depressing as it is, it is real and something needs to be done. So that is where my ideas start flooding in and he just laughs. I think I have had at least 10-15 "great ideas" about how to "do my part." Some of them are unrealistic for anyone, some cannot be done right now with two small children at home, and some are POSSIBLE. This is where my brain overloads. Where to begin? What EXACTLY to do? Where to do it?? So maybe you can help. I wanted to think of a way to help that would be fun all at the same time. So, literally, with God leading the way through other people (which I will explain at some point) I have been led to the idea of a shopping fundraiser of sorts. Let me start by telling you what I imagine...I picture a day where people can come and learn about modern day sex slavery and how it is growing across the world. (A time of gaining knowledge!) During this time, I also picture tables and tables of goods produced by girls that have been rescued or have escaped this lifestyle. This is where we would all be laughing and buying all kinds of cool jewelry, bags, shoes, etc. knowing that each purchase is helping a girls stay out of the sex business and supporting her family. Have I said that through these businesses, girls are also given emergency aid, child care, tutoring, and biblical teaching? They are being "saved" in so many ways. So it is a win win...we get great buys and they get a chance at a new life! (They win in the end with that). :) Here is the deal though. I have looked into this, and I through Trade as One I can hold a Gift Fair. BUT this is usually done at a church on a Sunday. That is fine, but I would LOVE to open it up to more than just my church. I have so many friends and family that don't live near me or attend my church. I envision this on a Saturday so that anyone can come. Where would this be held is one dilemma. The other is how would I get the word out there??? Typically, Trade as One "advertises" by having the pastor talk about it on a Sunday and following the service, people can buy items. Hmmm, what to do?? ANy ideas?? My other "avenue" to follow is on a smaller scale. Remember when your mom had Tupperware parties? Or now Pampered Chef, Silpada, Southern Living, etc? A HOME PARTY! BUT we would be buying these fair trade items instead (while still being informed about the need out there). That is another way to go. I think I will definitely do that one (so expect an invite!) but I don't want to give up on my first idea. I just need fresh minds to steer me in the right direction. HELP!! :)

Trade as One Favorite Items...for today!

Ok, I love these two items. I think the bracelet is so sleek and the bag is really cute. I just thought that every now and then and I would post different items I like from Trade as One. These two items are both $39 each. The bracelet is from the Nightlight Producers and the bag is from Hagar. Happy Shopping! Anyone you know having a birthday coming up?