Sponsor Spotlight -Zippityduda

Jennine with "A Bug's Life" Quilt
Zippityduda's Emporium of Fabric Delights is bursting at the seams with creative items made of fabric especially for you by Jennine, the artist and creative force behind the shop. From snuggly quilts (well loved by people and pets alike!), to eco-friendly market bags, to the slew of custom orders that she knocks out of the park, if what you're looking for is made of fabric, Jennine is your go-to girl.

Market Tote Bag
Jewelry Roll
This working mom of two packs a lot into her busy schedule! We were excited to sit down with the artist, who was recently featured on the front page of HandMadeNews.org, to learn a little more about her creative process. Read on in our interview below!

Silk Tie Blanket

Donations for Katie: Thanks for taking the time to chat with us! First, why don't you tell us a little about yourself.

Zippityduda: My name is Jennine and I live in Minneapolis with my husband, two children and a basset hound. For my day job, I work for a state-wide nonprofit and for my fun job, I spend pretty much all my waking moments sewing. I love science fiction television, jam-based music and pie.

DfK: How did you get started in your craft?

Z: My mother-in-law taught me to quilt on a vacation trip to their house in 1998 and I just haven't been the same since. As I learn new techniques, I expand my repertoire so now I sew all kinds of goodies from fabric.

DfK: What do you love most about your work?

Z: My favorite part about what I do is knowing that I am able to create something both beautiful AND useful. We all have certain utilitarian needs in our lives but we might as well have something pretty that serves the same purpose, right?

DfK: Where do you get your inspiration?

Z: Inspiration comes at me from everywhere but particularly music... I find that I will use song lyrics for quilt titles and different music to inspire me as I'm choosing fabric. A quilt made while listening to Iroquois women's songs will look very different from a quilt chosen while listening to the Grateful Dead, but both will beautiful!

DfK: What made you decide to support Katie through this auction?

Z: Although I don't know Katie personally, she is a dear friend of a dear friend which means she's my friend, too. Because my mother is currently battling pancreatic cancer and we are so so so very fortunte that she has insurance to cover her care, I feel that means I need to do something to help support someone who isn't in that same boat. If my creations can help bring Katie comfort by easing the pressure to pay the medical bills, then my mad sewing skills will have achieved something wonderful!

DfK: Anything you'd like to say to Katie directly?

Z: Katie, Sarah has told me you are a strong, kind, vibrant, courageous woman and I'm pulling for you! Sending love and hugs and all the good vibes I can muster.

(Note from the author of this spotlight: Jennine's "good vibes" are powerful stuff, Katie!)

You can check out more of Jennine's work by visiting her shop!

Zippityduda has generously donated seven items for this weekend's auction - that's right, we said SEVEN! Want to know what they are? Browse the auction right now to find out, and place your bids!

Sponsor Spotlight - Crooked Hook Designs

Spring hasn't quite sprung just yet, and for all of you who are still in colder climates, Crooked Hook Designs is exactly what you need. This brand new shop run by NJ native and creative mom, Gabrielle, features beautiful, stylish shawls and neck warmers that will take you from winter to spring in toasty style.


Meticulously hand-crocheted with quality materials, these gorgeous pieces are worth twice the price Crooked Hook is charging. And during the month of March, she's offering free domestic shipping as a grand opening celebration. Better grab your favorite design now, before she gets so busy that there's a waiting list!


We sat down with Gabrielle to learn a little about her brand new business. Read more about her in our interview below!


Donations for Katie: Thank you for taking the time to chat with us! First, tell us a little about yourself.

Crooked Hook Designs: I'm Gabrielle, stay at home mom to two girls, ages 5 and 2. I enjoy yoga, wine, dance-parties with my girls, and trips to the dog park with our crazy mutt.

DfK: How did you get started in your craft?

CHD: My grandmother taught me to crochet when I was 7. I had lost interest in it but then picked it up again when I was expecting my first child and have been sticthing ever since!

DfK: What do you love most about your work?

CHD: I love being able to produce clothing items and accessories in a balance of comfort, beauty, and fashion. A chunky cowl in the perfect color or a lacy, hand-painted shawl can breathe new life into your wardrobe and keep you warm.

DfK: Where do you get your inspiration?

CHD: From everywhere - fashion magazines, people-watching. I come up with designs that I'd like to wear myself, or sometimes a customer's custom request will inspire me to go in a different direction.

DfK: What made you decide to support Katie through this auction?

CHD: I think it's amazing how people in the arts come together to help another, and I am very pleased to be a part of that. Just a simple donation can help raise awareness and funds for this wonderful cause.

DfK: Anything you'd like to say to Katie directly?

CHD: Your will and spirit are so inspiring! The wonderful support of friends, family, and colleagues will help you through this battle.

You can check out more of Gabrielle's designs by visiting her shop! While you're there, go ahead and "heart" her shop so you can come back later to check out the new stuff she's constantly adding. Let's give Gabrielle a warm welcome to the online artisan community!

~ Sneak Peek ~

Wondering which creation Crooked Hook Designs will be offering for auction on March 19th? One lucky winner will receive this lovely one-button cowl. Curious about the color? We can't tell you yet! Come back next week on the 19th to find out, and place your bids!

Sponsor Spotlight - SEA Photography

What better way to kick off our Sponsor Spotlight series than with a member of the Donations for Katie Team! SEA Photography does it all - from artistic photo prints to event photography to portraits, this is who you want cracking a joke from behind the lense as she captures the most important moments of your life. What started as a casual hobby has turned into a booming side business with one project after another, doing professional shoots for theater companies, individual portraits, weddings, and even product shots for catalogues.

We caught up with the very busy artist behind SEA Photography to find out a little more about her process. Read more about her in our interview below!

Donations for Katie: First, tell us a little about yourself.

SEA Photography: I'm Sara, I'm 23, I take pictures, and I enjoy long walks on the beach and the occasional KitKat bar.

DfK: How did you get started in your craft?

SEA: I started taking pictures in college just for fun, and got a professional camera after graduating. Since then, I've just been taking random photo jobs and seeing how much I can learn!

DfK: What do you love most about your work?

SEA: Seeing people's faces when I show them their picture and they like how it looks.

DfK: Your portfolio contains such a broad variety of styles and subjects. Where do you get your inspiration?

SEA: Anything from music to the way the sky looks outside. I take it from everywhere!

DfK: What made you decide to support Katie through this auction?

SEA: Katie's my friend!

DfK: Anything you'd like to say to Katie directly?

SEA: I hope we can help you beat this :)

You can check out more of SEA Photography's impressive portfolio by visiting her flickr page! http://www.flickr.com/photos/sarawthouttheh/

~ Sneak Peek ~

Want to know what Sara will be offering up for Auction on March 19th? We can't tell you everything, but we can show you this! Just one of three gorgeous artistic prints that will be available on the 19th. The inspiration for this one isn't hard to guess!

Gorgeous! If you love it as much as we do, remember to start your bidding on this and Sara's other prints on Friday, March 19th. See you there!

Sponsor Spotlight - Komono Art

"Komono" is Japanese for "little things," all the little bags, purses, and treats that make being a woman so much fun. And at Komono Art, that's exactly what you'll find - artistic bags, wallets, purses, and fabric treats for women of all ages. As the owner and creator of this adorable line, Yuko designs her fabric creations from her home in NY.

We caught up with the very busy mom of two to learn a little more about her craft. Read more about her in our interview below!



Donations for Katie: Thanks for taking the time to chat with us! First, why don't you tell us a little about yourself.

Yuko: My name is Yuko Stano, a mom of 3-year-old daughter and 3-month-old boy and a wife of a lovely husband. I am Japanese. I moved to the United States about 10 years ago and now live in Albany NY.

DfK: How did you get started in your craft?

Y: My sister is a great sewer and she taught me how to sew. My first project was making pajamas for my boyfriend when I was fifteen.

DfK: What do you love most about your work?

Y: I can stay at home with my children and work whenever I have a little spare time. Since my son was born in December, I haven't been able to work as much as I used to though. But I can always give up 10 mins of my sleep at night for sewing.

DfK: Where do you get your inspiration?

Y: From all the beautiful fabric that is available now. I LOVE LOVE LOVE fabric. I actually started my own fabric shop on Etsy a little while ago.
http://www.fabricartshop.etsy.com

DfK: What made you decide to support Katie through this auction?

Y: I lost my nephew who was only 6 years old with cancer. I just know how hard it is to see that someone who you care about is suffering.

DfK: Anything you'd like to say to Katie directly?

Y: I wish you all the best! I admire you for your amazing strength.

You can check out more of Yuko's creations by visiting her shop!

~ Sneak Peek ~



Check out this adorable bag, just one of TWO lovely pieces donated by Yuko. Want to see the other item she's donated? Come back on March 19th to find out what it is and place your bids!

Sponsor Spotlight - Seat of My Pants

Seat of My Pants is an adorable line of all things fabric created by the owner and designer, Jen. Somewhere between writing poetry, creating artwork and watching after her kids, Jen finds time to dream up playful, colorful accessories that will make doing anything from storing makeup to toting diapers a little more fun!



Bright, cheerful colors and smart designs make this shop a joy to browse. Want to know a little more about the artist/poet/teacher/mom/seamstress behind it all? Read our interview with Jen, below!



Donations for Katie: Thanks for chatting with us! Let's start by asking you to tell us a little about yourself.

Jen: My name is Jen, and when I'm not teaching or mothering, I love to make things. I finished the MFA program at Ashland University this past summer, and I thoroughly enjoyed learning a huge amount about crafting a solid poem, working closely with so many extraordinarily talented writers, and building friendships that I'm sure will last a very long time. You can see one of my poems here: http://www.perigee-art.com/1009/index-2.php

DfK: How did you get started in your craft?

J: When I was 12 or so, my friend Allie taught me how to sew by hand. I made a number of blankets as gifts between that time and my college days. I received a marvelous second-hand sewing machine for Christmas when I was 22, and slowly figured out how to make it go. After our son was born and I was home from work, I picked up sewing again, but I decided that making bags was more my style.

DfK: What do you love most about your work?

J: I love a lot of things about my work! I love having some down time in the workshop--just me and the fabric and the scissors. (And the machine and the pins and the iron... haha!) I love the tremendous variety of fabrics that are available right now. I love coming up with new designs, especially when inspiration strikes. I love figuring out a new way to make an old design. I love when people want me to make them something special and it turns out awesome.

DfK: You offer so many beautiful things! Where do you get your inspiration?

J: I am totally inspired by beautiful fabrics. My friends inspire me to make new things, too--a special diaper bag design, a different size of an old design. Sometimes inspiration just hits me and I don't know where it comes from, and when that happens, it is pretty exciting.

DfK: What made you decide to support Katie through this auction?

J: I lost a dear friend to cancer a few years ago, and so I thought if my donating a handmade item to this auction can help Katie beat her lymphoma, I'm all for it.

DfK: Anything you'd like to say to Katie directly?

J: Katie, I was so inspired by your strength as you fight this disease. Your willingness to keep on going to parties and urging your friends out to the dance floor is such a great example for anybody, whether they are healthy or not. I wish you all the very best.

You can learn more about Jen and her work by visiting her shop!

~ Don't Miss Out! ~


Jen's zipper pouches like the one above are on SALE in her shop right now... Grab one before they're gone!

Sponsor Spotlight - Twilight Crafts

Twilight Crafts is widely known as one of the biggest, best crafting groups for Twilight fans around. With a large membership that's always growing, and fun events like craft swaps and challenges, it's no surprise that Twilight Crafts is a haven for creative fans of the series.


A supportive community that's always challenging each other in creativity and skill, Twilight Crafts is the place to be for any Twilight fan who loves to make - or buy! - handmade items. We sat down with one of the four mods, Courtney, to learn about the group. Want to know more about this crazy-talented tapestry of women? Read on in our interview below!



Donations for Katie: Thanks for taking the time to chat with us! First, why don't you tell us a little about yourself.

Courtney: About me: I'm a 24 year old girl from a small town outside of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. I do not have a swamp in my backyard, there are no pet alligators (that I know of), and I can pronounce the words 'beignet', 'roux', 'Tchoupitoulas', 'Natchitoches' and 'Decatur' correctly and without a blink of an eye.

Twilight Crafts comes in two parts. 1.) The livejournal community that started it all, where bloggers came together to express their love of the series and their crafty habits in one place. 2.) http://twilightcrafts.net/ – a more official blog where we showcase many crafts and talents.

DfK: How was Twilight Crafts created?

C: Twilight Crafts was created back in February of 2007 when Jen (founder and co-mod) realized that there were no outlets for crafters in the Twilight fandom. Having always been a fan of the creative outlet of crafting, Jen figured if she couldn't find one, she'd create one! We started off very slowly, with a handful of members. I didn't come on as a co-moderator for a month or so. I haven't regretted one moment of it.

DfK: What do you love most about the group?

C: I've never met a more passionate group of people in my life. Crafters are kind, dedicated, and generous. They look out for one another without question, and they encourage each other to try new things and to push their boundaries, creatively. There's never an end to the things you can try, and the end results are so rewarding. I know when I finish crafting something Twilight-inspired, I'm immediately posting it to the group, because I know I'll get great feedback.

DfK: Where do you get your own crafty inspiration?

C: I get inspiration from everything around me. I get inspiration from books such as Twilight and Harry Potter, to a shirts I see on designer websites that make me think, “Hey, I could do that myself!” But one of the things that inspires me the most are my friends, and watching how they can accomplish so many things – it makes me strive to be a better crafter.

DfK: What made you decide to support Katie through this auction?

C: As an affiliate of BellaBejeweled, I came across the blog for Katie and was immediately determined to do something to help. I'm no Donald Trump, nor am I friends with the President...but I can create things with my hands. Crafting is something I love, and if by doing something I love I can help one person receive the help he/she needs, I'd make hundreds of crafts.

DfK: Anything you'd like to say to Katie directly?

C: Katie, I know we've never met, but I feel like I know you already! You've got this amazing support group that is doing something fantastic and I'm truly honored to be a part of it. I hope that somehow, even if it's just a tiny bit, I can help you fight this. You're in my thoughts!

You can learn more about Courtney, the other 3 mods, and Twilight Crafts by visiting their website!

~ Don't Miss Out! ~



The mods of Twilight Crafts have generously donated a total of 4 items for Katie's auction! If you're a Twilight fan or have a friend who is, you won't want to miss these! Browse the auction now to find them... and remember the auction ends TONIGHT!

Sponsor Spotlight - m.e. Art Design

m.e. Art Design is an online studio filled with whimsical drawings, paintings, and other works of art, all created by artist and owner, Michelle. With a strong sense for color, movement, and imagination, Michelle sells her original work as well as affordable prints that would undoubtedly enhance the atmosphere of any office or home.


We were excited to have the chance to sit down with Michelle and learn a little more about her work. Check out the details in our interview below!


Donations for Katie: Thanks for taking the time to chat with us! First, why don't you tell us a little about yourself.

Michelle: I'm a mom to two little boys. I am also an artist, and a graphic designer.

DfK: How did you get started in your craft?

M: I've always loved to create. So, I went to school for Graphic Design, but eventually found myself drawing and illustrating and liking that more.

DfK: What do you love most about your work?

M: I really never know what the result of my endeavors will be, but I do love it when I'm able to create something that captures the imagination and touches the viewer. I feel some of my work does that.

DfK: Where do you get your inspiration?

M: I get my inspiration mostly from nature, observation, and subtleties in life.

DfK: What made you decide to support Katie through this auction?

M: Katie's life is precious. Though strangers, we are all connected and need to support one another.

DfK: Anything you'd like to say to Katie directly?

M: Katie, from what your friends say, you are the type of person who gives strength and inspiration to others despite what you are going through. Not everyone can do that and it is a gift. You're in my thoughts and I wish you the best.

You can check out more of Michelle's beautiful work by visiting her shop!

~ Sneak Peek ~

Wondering what Michelle has decided to donate for this weekend's auction? This gorgeous "Flora" print just might be involved! Come back this Friday, March 19th, to place your bids!

Sponsor Spotlight - Sampler Village

Sampler Village is the creative endeavor of Traci, lover of handmade goods and businesswoman extraordinaire. Traci's vision was to create a place where artists could share their goods with a broad audience, and people who loved buying handmade could try out treats and sweets and goodies from many vendors all at once. She succeeded! Sampler Village is a harmonious win/win endeavor, benefitting everybody involved with the sale of these fun, eclectic sample boxes.


St Patty's Day Themed Box
From her home in PA, Traci gathers samples from all types of vendors and carefully sorts them into adorable boxes bursting at the seams with goodies. These boxes are available to buyers both on her website and her Etsy page, and usually sell out within days of being put online! Want to know more about Traci and her village? Check out our interview with her, below.

Donations for Katie: Thanks for taking the time to chat with us! First, why don't you tell us a little about yourself.

Traci: Hi Everyone! My name is Traci Porczynski and I am the founder of Sampler Village. Sampler Village is designed to help crafters and artisans get their products noticed. Our goal is to give you and your shop a boost in traffic, unlike conventional advertising, potential buyers get to try a sampling of what you have to offer, then come back and purchase products directly from you! Boxes with a different theme go on sale the 21st of each month. We love our Villagers and our wonderful Visitors, so we are striving to make Sampler Village the best sample box out there!

DfK: The Sampler Village is such a unique idea - where did the idea come from, and what were the early months like?

T: I love sample boxes! It is so fun discovering new shops and products. I have met so many nice people along they way and hope the journey continues for many years to come. We are actually still in our early months :), we are growing each month with new Villagers signing up all the time. We are looking forward to promoting many wonderful shops this year and beyond!

DfK: What do you love most about your work?

T: The people! I have gotten to know so many wonderful people that I may have never known otherwise. I strive to make the sample boxes personal, so when you receive a box in the mail it is presented perfectly, with lots of flair. I have gotten many compliments on how the sample boxes look when they are received, and I believe that my Villagers put so much work into making such spectacular samples, that the boxes themselves should look just as good.

DfK: Where do you get your inspiration?

T: My inspiration comes from finding such wonderful shops, that I personally love, and then spreading the word about them. I know how hard it is to "stand out" in the crowd. Sometimes, even if people are looking for you, they cannot find you. The wonderful people that purchase the sample boxes are looking for you! That is why they purchase the box, to find products and shops they may not have found otherwise. My inspiration comes from helping these great shops get noticed!

DfK: What made you decide to support Katie through this auction?

T: One of my wonderful villagers, Sarah (Bella Bejeweled) emailed about Katie, and I was certainly eager to help. I can only be humbled by Katies sheer determination not to let cancer take over her life. KEEP THE FAITH KATIE!!

DfK: Anything you'd like to say to Katie directly?

T: It is hard to put into words sometimes what you would like to say..You are a hero to all of us, the determination you have is incredible! My thoughts and prayers are with you and may God Bless You!

You can learn more about Traci and the Sampler Village (including how to buy a box, or how to become a Villager) by visiting her website!

~ Sneak Peek ~

Wondering what Traci will be donating for the auction this Friday? Check out this MEGA BOX - the biggest sample box offered in the village, with one of EVERYTHING that was available that month! The box pictured above is from Valentine's Day, but come back on March 19th to find out the theme of the Mega Box up for auction, and place your bids! You won't want to miss out on this one!

Sponsor Spotlight - Abbey James Co.

After a long day of work, there's nothing quite as relaxing as a nice, warm bubble bath to ease away the stress of the day. Abbey James Co. was founded upon that philosophy - that pampering yourself and your skin actually can improve your life. The founder, Rebecca, knows all about the benefits of skin care in the most personal way possible. When her daughter was diagnosed with RA, it sent Rebecca on a quest to find things that could help ease the pain. What she found was a fascinating world of beneficial oils, salts, and natural ingredients that also happen to smell delicious and look beautiful when she mixes them up in her studio.



With lovely packaging, natural ingredients, and an overall aura of luxury, it's Abbey James Co's mission to make you feel like royalty. Read on to learn more about this delicious line in our interview with the founder, Rebecca.


Donations for Katie: Thanks for taking the time to chat with us! First, why don't you tell us a little about yourself.

Abbey James: My name is Rebecca Smith, I live in Aurora, OH with my husband and 5 children. I have been making bath and body products for 3 years and hoping to devote more time to my business when my last child enters first grade this fall!

DfK: How did you get started in your craft?

AJ: One of my daughters was diagnosed with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis a few years ago, which led me to search for natural remedies for her pain and inflammation. I discovered all of the benefits of natural oils and dead sea salt therapies and also discovered the wonderful world of handmade soap! Reading all of this new information led me to take notice of the ingredients listed on all of my store-bought products. I realized most of the products offered nothing in the way of REAL or beneficial ingredients. I decided to try a little experimentation, and soon, The Abbey James Co. was born!

DfK: What do you love most about your work?

AJ: I love the artistic side of creating a product, packaging it beautifully and knowing I am offering a highly beneficial product, as well.

DfK: Where do you get your inspiration?

AJ: I love fabrics and papers and usually use those as my jumping off point as far as design goes, or the scent of an essential or fragrance oil may dictate the color or design also. As for the products, I have started with what my family and I need at any given time!

DfK: What made you decide to support Katie through this auction?

AJ: A few years ago, we brought my mother-in-law to live with us during her last months before she died of cancer. MaryAnn was a woman of strength, grace, courage, and faith. Though it was a bit hard, having four children under 6 at the time, it was the greatest gift to me, as well. Spending 24 hours a day with MaryAnn gave me a wonderful opportunity to know her as I otherwise would not have. It also gave me much to contemplate about our real purpose on this earth. Hearing what a person thinks about and recalls when they know they are leaving this earth really makes you think about what we have all been given a chance to do while we are here. I think about MaryAnn so often it is a bit uncanny, but it always helps to keep my perspective on the greater gifts in life. Any time I am asked to give to this sort of thing, it hits a soft spot, and I can't refuse.

DfK: Anything you'd like to say to Katie directly?

AJ: You are obviously an inspiration to all who know you and are giving them a wonderful gift by your courage and strength. The impact you have made is enormous and you should be very proud and know how much you are loved!

You can check out more of Abbey James Co's delicious bath and body line by visiting their shop!

~ Sneak Peek ~


Wondering what pampering products Abbey James Co. will be offering for auction on the 19th? Check out this adorable "Say it with Soap" gift set... just one of TWO pampering gift sets donated by Rebecca. The second gift set has been created exclusively for Katie's auction; if you want to see it, come back on March 19th to place your bids!

Sponsor Spotlight - Girl by Aileen

Girl by Aileen is a delightful line of cute, creative bags and clutches all dreamed up by owner and Chicago native, Aileen. From messenger bags to makeup pouches to her signature large-frame clutches, Aileen has got everything you'll need to carry your essentials in style. Using only the trendiest fabrics and simple, chic designs, this shop is full of artsy one of a kind items that'll make you swoon.

We had the chance to chat with Aileen and learn a little more about her process. Check out our interview below for more on the artist behind Girl by Aileen!

Donations for Katie: Thanks for chatting with us! First, why don't you tell us a little about yourself.

Aileen: I am a mother of 3 boys and one more boy in the oven. My husband and I love creativity and cannot get enough of it. I wish I had more hours in the day to be creative as I work full time as well. As a child I remember my mother being very creative with sewing and so I inherited the talent from her.

DfK: How did you get started in your craft?

A: Two years ago my sister in law and I went to a craft show and I loved the idea of homemade. I said to her next year you and I will be part of this event and that's where it all started.

DfK: What do you love most about your work?

A: I am a fabric addict. I love to shop for new fabrics.

DfK: Where do you get your inspiration?

A: I am inspired by colors and designs. So many fabrics and ideas that motivate me. I can't wait to see the finish product so once I start I can't put it down.

DfK: What made you decide to support Katie through this auction?

A: My X husband has terminal cancer and watching him struggle with his health, time, money, it's devastating. He is a fighter and still goes to work full time. He is an inspiration to me. It's unfair for any human being to endure this disease. I can't imagine being in their shoes and truly admire their strength and determination to live.

DfK: Anything you'd like to say to Katie directly?

A: Hi Katie! It is my pleasure to be part of this event. I wish you the best and will have you in my prayers. Keep up the good fight. God bless.

You can check out more of Aileen's work by visiting her shop!

~ Sneak Peek ~

Want a peek at which gorgeous creation Girl by Aileen will be offering for auction on the 19th? Keep your eyes peeled for an XL-frame clutch made in this so-cute "tulips and berries" fabric! Come back on March 19th to place your bids!

Sponsor Spotlight - Busy Bee Shoppe

Miss Busy Bee Lauren is somewhat of an internet sensation. With a blog that promises laughter and good feelings for all, it's no wonder that her new(ish) venture of creating headbands has been such a success! You can visit her shop at Busy Bee Shoppe!


Want to learn more about Lauren and her designs? Here's a quick interview with her!

Donations for Katie: Thank you so much for taking some time to chat with us! Can you tell us a little about yourself?

Lauren: Hmm...I am Lauren, and I love the color. I also love frozen yogurt, and after a long search for the very best froyo, I have found that Golden Spoon Frozen Yogurt is the most heavenly, so I stock my freezer with it. I am married to my high school sweetheart, and I fall in love with him a little more each day by the small acts of kindness we give each other. I am happiest when I am creating, whether it be taking photos, making dinner, decorating our home or designing headbands. I love to go thrifting, travel, try out new restaurants, work out, spend time with family, and get dressed up. I also love the Lord and try to live in a way that would please Him. I just love life :)

DfK: How did you get started in your craft?

L: A little over a year ago I started really falling in love with headbands. I was mostly inspired by Blair Waldorf on "Gossip Girl". She always wore such beautiful headbands, and so I started searching for similar ones. I found that most were way to costly, so I studied them and tried my hand at making my own version. When people saw my headbands they started asking for me to make them. It sort of took off that way.

DfK: What do you love most about your work?

L: I love when my customers send me pictures of them wearing their headband. Especially when they tell me how much they love it. It's happy to know others love something that I designed and crafted.

DfK: Where do you get your inspiration?

L: I am inspired a lot by the media, which most people are. What stars wear, really sets the stage for what will and is in fashion. I also love to look at Urban Outfitters for ideas. They have a very urban style with just enough touch of vintage.

DfK: What made you decide to support Katie through this auction?

L: When Sara approached me with the idea, I just knew I needed to participate. I think whenever an opportunity to do service arrives, we should jump at the chance. Service to others is what Jesus taught us to do, and I truly believe that serving others gives us the greatest happiness.

DfK: Anything you'd like to say to Katie directly?

L: Hang in there! There are a lot of people that love you and are pulling for you!

- Sneak Peek -

Want to see what Lauren is donating to the auction?! This gorgeous headband, named "Liz." It's one of her best sellers, and you will have the opportunity to bid on it on March 19th when the auction goes live!

Sponsor Spotlight - Hoodwink

At Hoodwink you'll find a varied selection of artsy, often reconstructed clothing options. From adorable tshirt tanks to the most unique pair of chucks you'll ever see, Hoodwink strives to renew your wardrobe with quirky pieces you won't find anywhere else.



We caught up with the owner and artist, Julia, to learn a little more of what Hoodwink is all about. Check out the details in our interview below!

Donations for Katie: Thanks for chatting with us! First, why don't you tell us a little about yourself.

Hoodwink: I am currently a graduate student for fashion design at Drexel University, and recieved my Bachelor's degree at Tyler School of Art in Fibers.

DfK: How did you get started in your craft?

H: I have been doing crafts for as long as I can remember. I remember as a small child, making purses with my mom, out of sheets of felt and Velcro. She says I loved putting anything together that was tedious and had small pieces. I can see this still tendency for repetition and attention to detail constantly coming through in my work today.

DfK: What do you love most about your work?

H: I love making things that are usable, while still being unique and interesting. I love seeing things come together, and the final product that is created.

DfK: Where do you get your inspiration?

H: I get my inspiration from everything around me. Between school and work, I am constantly surrounded by creativity, which is what keeps me going and keeps me inspired.

DfK: What made you decide to support Katie through this auction?

H: This seemed like a great cause and and a wonderful opportunity to help someone in need through my creativity.

DfK: Anything you'd like to say to Katie directly?

H: You are a strong and brave person. You are in my thoughts, and I wish you nothing but the best!

You can check out more of Julia's work by visiting her shop!

~ Sneak Peek ~

Love that pair of crocheted All Stars that you saw above? You'll have the chance to bid on them this Friday for the little one in your life. Wouldn't they look adorable on?Come back on March 19th to place your bids!

Sponsor Spotlight - Pondhopper Studio

Pondhopper Studio features a collection of beautiful and unique articles of clothing, accessories, and artwork. Artist and designer Lorraine uses upcycled materials and nature-inspired themes to create pieces that will add a touch of artsy elegance to your wardrobe or home. Each piece is one of a kind, yet they share a distinctive, creative flair that runs through her work. She has so many lovely pieces that it's impossible to choose a favorite!



We caught up with Lorraine to find out what goes into her creative process. Learn more about her in our interview below!



Donations for Katie: Thanks for chatting with us! First, why don't you tell us a little about yourself.

Pondhopper: Mmmm – I’m not good at this bit, but here goes! I’m Lorraine and I live in Canada in a wonderful old farmhouse in the almost - middle of the City of Edmonton! Our garden has beautiful 100 year old elm trees where we built a tree house that nestles in the middle of the branches. Now that our two sons are grown, my husband and I use the tree house to enjoy a glass of sparkling wine during hot summer afternoons. So the tree house has evolved from a child’s play place to a lovely sanctuary complete with garden chairs, hammock, bookcase and chandelier!

DfK: How did you get started in your craft?

P: I don’t remember ever really “starting” – I have just always made stuff! Formally, I pursued drawing, painting, papercrafts and sculpting throughout my school and college years, studied sewing and textiles in England and learned about jewelry in Montreal. Informally, I grew up helping my Mum sew my dance costumes and learning photography from my Dad – I can still remember going into the attic where the darkroom was and watching the magical process of pictures appearing on a blank sheet of paper (pre-digital of course!).

DfK: What do you love most about your work?

P: The truth is I am just addicted to everything about the process of creation - from the initial inspiration to the end result, I love it all! I really enjoy taking something that has a previous life and may otherwise be discarded and turning it into a unique new piece to be loved. I especially like hearing stories about how my items are used by their new owners.

DfK: Where do you get your inspiration?

P: I find inspiration comes from so many different places it would be hard to narrow it down – my head is constantly bombarded with ideas and I have scrawled notes in every nook and cranny of my house, car, purse and pockets! Often, inspiration will come from the materials and techniques themselves. I like working on concepts that are not fully dictated in the beginning and the final outcome is a bit of a surprise because it has evolved throughout the creation process.

DfK: What made you decide to support Katie through this auction?

P: Katie reminds me of a dear friend who battled cancer with the utmost grace and humour. She always had a sparkle in her eye and never lost her joy of life. It was humbling, heartbreaking and uplifting to be a part of her journey and I have a feeling Katie’s own journey, as difficult as it is, brings many gifts to her family and friends also.

DfK: Anything you'd like to say to Katie directly?

P: I wish you the very best Katie.

You can check out more of Lorraine's work by visiting her shop!

~ Sneak Peek ~

Wondering what Lorraine has generously donated for the auction? These gorgeous spats will add a little flair to any pair of shoes you own! Come back on Friday to learn more about them and place your bids!