The Power of Purple

First, some sobering statistics:

*One in 4 women will experience domestic violence during her lifetime.

*Every year, more than 3 million children witness domestic violence in their homes.

*According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, domestic violence is the third leading cause of homelessness among families.
(source - http://www.safehorizon.org)

You are probably aware that domestic violence affects people, mostly women, of all walks of life, of every race, on every rung of the economic ladder. It is a problem that affects the children and families of the victims as well. You might not be aware, however, that October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Each of us can do our part, either by spreading the word, volunteering, or donating to any of the numerous women's shelters or related charities throughout the world.

This October I'm trying to do my part by using what I love - art!

This lovely purple treasury is a collection of beautiful finds, with a message of healing.



I am also going to do my best to contribute to local shelters using proceeds from the sales of my art. I have several auctions on eBay, such as this ACEO, which will automatically send a percentage to the Houston Area Women's Center when the item is sold.

And since PURPLE is the color used to promote awareness of domestic violence, I am going to be using purple in as much of my art as I can. This little ACEO is just one example -

I hope you've been inspired to seek out ways to help in your community!

Light it up Blue!

Today, April 2nd, is Autism Awareness Day. This is the day to rally support for a really great cause - to get information out there about a disorder that affects now approximately 1 in 88 children and is more prevalent than diabetes, AIDS, cancer, cerebral palsy, cystic fibrosis, muscular dystrophy or Down syndrome, combined here in the United States. Many of you may or may not know that this is something very close to my heart, as two of my kids are on the autism spectrum.

As a kick-off to Autism Awareness Month, which will last throughout April, individuals and businesses and communities today are showing support by "lighting it up blue" by wearing blue and lighting up businesses with blue lights.

One well-known company is getting in on the action - Home Depot is making special light bulbs available just for the occasion!

And of course, the community at Etsy is always full of individuals rallying to support a good cause. You'll see plenty of autism-related items, sales, and even treasuries promoting awareness. My contribution? This nifty little treasury full of beautiful blue!