a quick note

things are rather ragged here at the moment, but i wanted to give anyone that checks here a heads up. i have added a button, just under the profile, that will take you to The Seaman's Church Institute blog. if you knit or crochet, this is an excellent charityknit. it is not too late, even now, to contribute for this christmas. as noted on the blog:

Finished garments should be sent throughout the year to Christmas-at-Sea, 241 Water Street, New York, NY 10038. Please be sure to include your name and address within the package so we can acknowledge its receipt.

Gift packing begins not long after Labor Day and continues right up until Christmas. While we receive donations January through December, it is most helpful to us to receive your donations in the fall.

the patterns are available from the website. the helmets have been a special request from the seamen and it was noted that caps are also in demand. if you do not knit, there is a *list of small items that are needed*, and monetary donations are welcome.

edited to add list:
In the presents given to mariners, containing a handknitted scarf and hat, SCI wants to fill the box with other useful items to the mariner. These items include

· Unscented, Hypoallergenic Hand Lotion (2-4oz bottles)

· Unscented, Colorless Lip Balm,

· Sealed Packages of Holiday Sweets,

· Books or Activities like Sudoku, word searches & playing cards,

· Microwave Popcorn, and

· Sugarless Chewing Gum.

These are items that you and I can likely pick up at the local supermarket; but mariners, working long stretches away from shore and their community, find it difficult to obtain these common, practical things. For complete information, including a downloadable brochure on the Gift Drive, go to www.seamenschurch.org/726.asp.
thanks