The kindness of strangers

On Tuesday a devastating 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck Christchurch destroying homes and buildings as well as many peoples lives. Unfortunately the death toll continues to rise with hundreds of people unaccounted for. I feel so lucky that all of my friends are safe and out of harms way. Right now the city is in ruins and thousands of people are homeless and in desperate need of aid. 

The positive that comes out of this situation are the stories of goodwill and kindness from generous people all around New Zealand and the world. In Wellington they've orchestrated a bake off as well as a benefit show which has gathered much support and many people are parting with belongings for those less fortunate. People have also opened up their homes for those seeking refuge, the kindness knows no bounds. 

Even if you're not in New Zealand donating is very easy, here are links if you wish to give money to various causes. Also, super lovely artist Kelly Thompson is donating 30% of all retail to the Red Cross. 

This afternoon I am making packages for friends in Christchurch. They have lost their homes so I am hoping that some Japanese sweet treats and nic nacs will cheer them up, even if it is just for a moment. Mail is expected to be operational by Monday. If anyone would like to send a package to someone affected by the earthquake please email me on gemmarasmussen@gmail.com and I will send you a name and postal address.

 There is much kindness and love that can come from such events. In times of tragedy it is best to focus on what we can do to help.

The art of the goodie bag

I sent Natasha a goodie bag in the post a few weeks back and it finally arrived! I nervously waited for its arrival conjuring corrupt posties and foreign incorrect addresses in my mind. Would they be able to read my scribble? Why did I not print my words? Ahh the anxiety...

There is definitely an art to the goodie bag, and a deluxe edition must include the following things. I have never nailed the ultimate goodie bag and this is my goal.

-a photograph
-chocolate and candy
-miscellanious items - matches, a postcard, a picture of a cat, a key ring, a fridge magnet etc...
-a handwritten letter (collaging within the letter is most encouraged)
-magazines - especially those not available or most coveted by the recepient
-a mix tape
-a beautiful quote that you just cannot get out of your mind
-stickers
-a confession that noone knows
-pretty pictures for the recpients wall
-an opshop find
- a scratchie or lotto ticket
-and lastly spritz of perfume!

Blind letter

When I was very young, perhaps 6, someone posted a blind letter in the mail to my family. What I can vaguely gather from my mother reading it, was that it was a teenage girl. She harped on to us, her blind anonymous audience, and delved into the issues like boys, the new wallpaper in her bedroom and the  problems she had with her parents. I loved her. My new anonymous friend. My mother dismissed it as nonsense and threw the letter in the rubbish bin. I thought it was beyond fascinating and penned my first blind letter (rather unimaginatively) to my next door neighbour. It said 'To Mrs Shas (her name was Mrs Shaw) What does it feel like to be old? Herrrre is a picture for you. (insert confused 6 year old rendition of shopping trolley). That was the beginning of one of the most fufilling and life changing relationships I have experienced. Today I am going to pen a new blind letter to a chosen unsuspecting victim!