Category Archives: Little Warriors

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The Next Little Warrior Event – Easter Bags of Hope

It’s with great excitement that I announce our next Little Warrior event – the 2nd Annual Easter Bags of Hope benefitting the Hope Center of Waukesha.  We are currently collecting donations of hygiene products, small toys/books and non-perishable snacks (click here for a complete list).  We will be using the items to fill Easter Bags for those serviced by the Hope Center of Waukesha.  Then on Saturday  March 23rd (9am-12pm) we invite children of all ages to join us and help assemble the bags.

The Hope Center is a non-profit organization that has been providing hope to those in need in Waukesha County for more than twenty years.  Hope Center is continually working to provide new and better solutions to prevent homelessness and handle the growing needs of the community.  To read more about the Hope Center click here.

If you are out of town and would still like to participate, please do!  I know that there are many, many Little Warriors all over the US!  If I may, here is what I would suggest:  Take your child to the dollar store or Wal-Mart or Target and talk to them about people who don’t have homes.  Have them try to come up with a list of what kinds of items they would need if they didn’t have a house to live in.  Keep your language simple.  The basics.  You know your child best.  Praise them for thinking of others and tell them how important it is.  It’s the teaching part that really gets me motivated about this project!

I really do hope to see you on the morning of March 23rd.  We will have coffee ready for you and promises of a memorable morning with your little ones.  It gets me every single time as I watch so many little ones working to help others.  I always feel like Owen is so very proud of what we are doing.  Come for the whole three hours or for just a while.  Come right away at 9am or show up late.  We just want to see you there!   It’s going to be a great opportunity to show children that they can make a difference.

I’ve got all the details up on www.owenslittlewarriors.com (a link is in the black header of the blog too).   Pre-registration for the event on the 23rd is appreciated so we have an estimated head count of how many will be joining us.  But walk-ins are always welcome!!!

We made 238 Easter Bags last year  … do you think we make more this time around??  It’s really all up to you!

Please feel free to email me or we.care.warriors@gmail.com if you have any questions.

Love, Mel

P.S. Don’t forget to print off a flyer (or a few) and invite all of your friends!  Click here to download a copy of the flyer.

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March 4, 2013 · 5:09 pm
November 29, 2012 · 1:08 pm

Little Warrior 2nd Annual Ornament Drive Recap

Where on earth has the time gone?  I feel like I’ve blinked and two weeks have just flown by.  There is so much to update you about!!  The Second Annual Little Warrior Drive, Triplet’s 2nd birthday & party, some great “God moments”.  Where do I even start?

The Little Warrior Ornament Drive – what a HUGE success?  I had hoped it would be bigger and better than the year before … but I had no idea what was really in store for us.

The morning of Nov 17 was busy and I was stressed.  I was so nervous about it being a success … what if no one shows up?  I always think this on the morning of Little Warrior events.  We had TONS of great new & fresh ideas flowing.  The set up crew worked hard and seamlessly setting up tables, getting crafts ready, even making coffee.  Then the kids and parents started arriving.  That’s when my “high” started.  There were tons of kids and adults waiting to check in … I started to help (the best that I could).  Note to self – we need to re-visit the check in process for the next event – chaos!  I’ve never been up front before – I’m usually still running around putting the last finishing touches on the event.

The two hours flew by!  There was a steady flow of kids – the ornaments just kept coming and coming and coming!  I couldn’t help but to smile –  knowing how many grandfriends would be blessed with one of these ornaments. We ran out of completion certificates at the registration table …. that meant more than 100 kids had arrived!!!

How here is one of my favorite things – the statistics from the event!!

  • 105 Children participated - that’s more than double from last year’s 50 children
  • 582 Ornaments were made – more than double from last year’s 250!!
  • 4 Girl Scout troops participated
  • $120 was raised from the bake sale & coffee donation basket
  • $500 grant was given to Interfaith from Kohl’s as we had 5 or more Kohl’s associates participate with their children!
    • (that’s a total of $62o donated to benefit those who are serviced by Interfaith)
  • The triplets made their first appearance to a Little Warrior event :)
  • Approx 20 volunteers helped the day of the event

I can’t believe we doubled from last year!  The joy it brings me to know that Owen’s death is still creating good in this world … it’s amazing.  I really feel like my soul is at peace because I know others are benefiting from this nightmare.  Hundreds of children are learning that serving others is important … even more are receiving a blessing to know that a child cares about them.  It’s a mind-blowing & wonderful circle of blessings.  I never would have started an organization like this if it hadn’t been for Owen … this journey … this blog and all of you.  If people didn’t read my story, I’d just be another anonymous mom who is mourning the loss of her son.

So … thank you.  Thank you to everyone who helped and participated in the ornament drive.  Thank you for those who made donations to the Interfaith organization on behalf of Little Warriors.  Thank you to you … the one who still reads my blog even after the “excitement” has calmed down.  For those of you who care and we have never even met.  Thank you for keeping Owen’s spirit alive.  Thank you for supporting me and giving me the inspiration to keep going … to finding the good in every situation.  Thank you.

Here are a bunch of photos from the event – hope you enjoy!!!

Love, Mel

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October 31, 2012 · 8:09 pm

Little Warriors Share the Interfaith Wish List

I’m getting excited about the upcoming Little Warrior event. I’ve got the help of wonderful women this time … It’s going to be better than ever! These events always make me feel like Owen is close. All of the good that my little baby boy is still doing … Even after he has been gone for so long.

The ornaments we are going to make are going to be apart of a larger Christmas package. For many recipients, this is the only gift they will receive all year. Last year, I posted a wish list of items we needed for the ornaments. However, thanks to the overwhelming generosity, we still have enough supplies for this year’s drive!!! Im hoping to pass along the blessings this year to Interfaith by sharing THEIR wish list instead. I’ve got the items that Interfaith is looking for posted HERE

Donations can be made in a few different ways:
-Drop them off in the bin at Ascension Lutheran Church in Waukesha
-Bring your donation to the Little Warrior event on Nov 17
-Or you can email me for a mailing address and you can mail them from where ever you live!

Owen’s story has spread so far … And I am so blessed to have the support of so many. This is my turn to spread on the love and support you have given me. This is the way I am able to keep Owen alive…in the hearts of the children who come and learn a little about serving others.

Ok I’ll get off my soap box – I just get so excited when I think about Little Warriors and what all of your children did for the Waukesha community last year.

Love, Mel

For more information about the Little Warrior Ornament Drive and to register for the event visit: www.owenslittlewarriors.com

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October 17, 2012 · 12:37 pm

ANNOUNCING – the Next Little Warrior Event!

I’m excited to announce the next Little Warrior event – the 2nd annual Christmas ornament drive benefiting the Interfaith Organization of Waukesha.  I have such wonderful memories of last year’s event, I just can’t wait to see the turn out this year!  It’s going to be bigger & better!!  So please, please, please register your kids, your friend’s kids, grand-kids, nieces, nephews, girl/boy scout troops, godchildren – all are welcome!

We will have 4-5 different ornament stations that you and your child(ren) can visit.  Pick one that you love or make one of each!  The projects are designed so that ALL ages can participate.  Last time we had 2 year olds all the way up to teenagers participate. It truly is fun for the whole family.

I personally invite each of you to join me (and all the Little Warrior volunteers) on November 17th (10am-12pm) at Ascension Lutheran Church – 1415 Dopp Street, Waukesha.  Please don’t feel that you have to be a believer to participate – this project isn’t a “christian thing” – it’s a “human thing”.  You just need to have a desire to help people – and the want to teach kids the importance of service to one another.

*Registration is appreciated – but not required

For complete details on the project visit:  www.owenslittlewarriors.com

DOWNLOAD A FLYER HERE – Print one for your fridge :)  Could you also help spread the word about Owen’s service project?  Post a flyer at the library, at your work, or your church, etc.

If you’re still not convinced, here is some food for thought on why joining us could be life changing – All of us at one point or another will need someone to help us.  By involving children in volunteerism at a young age, you are helping to create their perception of the world.  Plant the seed in them that they can make a difference.  Teach them to be Little Warriors who fight for the good in this world.

Let me know if you have any questions or comments – I love to hear from you all!

Love, Mel

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July 23, 2012 · 12:58 pm

Owen’s Little Warrior Team for the Briggs & Al Run/Walk – Register NOW!

The Briggs & Al Run/Walk for Children’s Hospital is coming up quick!  This year the walk will be held on September 15th in Milwaukee and there is only 1 month left to register.  A close friend of our family is getting married out-of-town that same day, so I won’t be able to walk this year — BUT can I can a favor?  Will you walk for us?

Last year was so powerful and I was so proud to know that Owen’s memory was helping raise money for Children’s.  The staff helped us so much during our 5 days stay … which honestly felt more like a month.  In fact, Owen’s nurses still stay in touch with my family and even remembered the day he died.  This is one of the only ways I know how to pay at least a little bit back.  Although there is no price to the gifts and comfort we were given.

My very own Mandy Bushke has offered to be the team captain and will walk with you in our place.  The shirts are white again this year and we want to paint the streets OWENGE!  But I need help to do it .. since I can’t be there in person.   The walk is family friendly — bring the kids! Strollers and wagons work great.

Click here to register to walk on the Owen’s Little Warriors team or to read more about the Briggs & Al Run/Walk

Please help to not only help Owen’s memory live on, but to also spread joy to the other families who are being serviced by Children’s Hospital of WI.

Love, Mel

Click here for last year’s walk.  And just for a little inspiration … here are some photos from last year too.  Can’t help but think – “Gosh do we stick out like sore thumbs and man is it BEAUTIFUL!”  Love you Owen …

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March 26, 2012 · 4:00 pm

Thank You for Making the Easter Bag Project a Success!

To say that the Little Warrior & Supermoms of Ascension’s event this past weekend was a success would be an understatement!  We had about 40 kids with their parents come and join in on the fun.  There were members of my church, those who have participated in previous Little Warrior events, a daisy troop – families of all kinds!  I was amazed at how many people were brought together to serve the same purpose.  At the end of the day we made 238 completed bags for the Hope Center.  There are a ton of items also being donated on their own.  Not to mention we raised about $140 in our bake sale!

I want to thank each and every one of you who donated your time and money to this project.  Even if you donated your secret stash of hotel shampoos and conditioners – thank you!  Not only have you made a difference in a stranger’s life, but you also helped keep Owen’s fight alive.  He fought for ‘life’ while he was here on earth, and we are continuing to fight for what is ‘good’ in his memory.

I can’t describe what goes through my mind during these events.  I suppose it’s a lot of things – what needs to happen next, are my kids being behaving?  But it’s also this sense of calmness and knowledge that I am where I’m supposed to be.  Running these events brings me such joy and purpose out of life.  I’m honored to have this opportunity and instrument to use in life.  Thank you so much for helping me feel meaningful.

I was one proud mama this weekend!  Owen, I love you – mom is proud of you!

Love, Mel

Here are some pictures from the day:

 

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March 19, 2012 · 12:34 pm

Intentional Kindness

Someone posted on the Orange for Owen page on facebook about another organization called Ben’s Bells Project.

I read about who Ben was and why his parents started this organization.  I looked at the pictures.  Then I read the mission statement:

Our mission is to inspire, educate and motivate each other to realize the impact of intentional kindness and to empower individuals to act according to that awareness, thereby changing our world.

Intentional kindness.  The words made me think … got the gears turning.  This is not the kind of stuff like holding a door open or smiling – this is something with purpose and drive.  It’s deliberate – willful – purposeful – intended.  It calls for thought before hand. Planning.

If you listen to KLove you know what “Make a Difference Monday” is.  You are encouraged to go out of your way and make someone else smile – show someone intentional kindness.  But what if we did this every day?  Every week … every year.  What if intentional kindness wasn’t just something we did on Mondays … or when we felt like it.  What if we did something intentional every day of the week?  Every day of the year?  Honestly, I don’t know that I have the strength or stamina to really do that.  But if I could … I really believe my life would be radically different.

I’ve been doing a lot of praying about hate vs love lately.  I looked forward to the sermon at church yesterday – Oh God Lead Us from Hate to Love.  I read the Generous Wife blog.  She recently called attention to this scripture:

Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.  1 Peter 3:9   NIV

I feel like this is all powerful stuff.  These are radical ways of thinking – no one’s natural reaction to evil is to bless that person.  It’s got to be intentional.  Purposeful.  Pre-thought out.  I feel challenged to change my gut – to stop my natural reactions.  I fear that I will be too weak to make the change successfully – or at all.  It’s overwhelming to think that I am expected to pray for the man who holds up a bank.  To bless the friend who lied to me.  When my husband wakes up cranky  - I am expected to repay him with a blessing.    For the guy that cut me off on the freeway, forgiveness.  For the mother who beats her children, a prayer.

I need strength in the days ahead.  In the trials of hate vs love that are still to come.  I pray for the softening of my heart so that I will turn to love rather than revenge.  I pray that when I feel the fire of anger begin to ignite in my heart that I will be able to put the flame out … may love and peace takes it place.  I pray that I use the power of forgiveness in all that I do.

Intentional kindness — it sure is a crazy idea … but the possibilities it opens are beautiful!

Love, Mel

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March 12, 2012 · 11:14 pm

Craft Hope Update

It’s quite magical how helping someone else can make you feel better about yourself.  Making these hats has given me such purpose at the end of the day.  It’s a measurable task.  I can be a mom all day long and have nothing physical to show for all of my hard work.  But when I have a hat, it just makes me feel like I actually accomplished something.  It’s silly really because I cared for three lives all day long.  I do a lot all day.  Being a mom is really important.  I know that.  But there is something about a little hat with a cute felt monster on it that makes me feel a little more accomplished.

It also reminds me that I still have more to give.  My life isn’t that crazy that I can’t spend a little time each day helping someone else.  It was about an hour a day that I crocheted … a hat and sometimes more a day.  I crocheted while I watched tv or while Doug and I chatted about our days.  My fingers did all the work, it wasn’t something I had to think about to do.  I spent a little time while the babies napped and after I cleaned up lunch.  ok … sometimes I crocheted before I cleaned up because it became like daily therapy for me.

Each and every hat I made was unique.  59 different color patterns with different felt appliques on them.  All I kept thinking was that each of these little kids were different and unique – they all have their own story – and I wanted them to have something as special as they are.  I’m giving a little piece of Owen to each of these children to wear as a shield of their own.  I thought of Owen each stitch I made … I think of him with just about every breath I take.  I prayed that my little warrior would watch out for all these other warrior children out there.  I prayed for the parents who are fighting right along with their sick children.

I posted pictures of all the hats I made below.  I’m really excited to share this project with you all.

Love, Mel

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February 2, 2012 · 3:43 pm

Exciting Announcement! The Next Little Warrior Event

It is with great pleasure that I announce the next Little Warrior event!  The Little Warrior Organization will be partnering with the Supermom’s of Ascension (my mom’s group) to put together Easter Bags for the Hope Center of Waukesha.

It’ll be a two part deal:

First part:  We will be collecting items starting now until March 21st for these bags.  It’s items such as non-perishable snacks, shampoo, soap, deodorant, books, small toys, etc.  There is a complete list here.

If you are out of town and would still like to participate, this is a great way.  Take your child to the dollar store or Wal-Mart or Target and talk to them about people who don’t have homes.  Have them try to come up with a list of what kinds of items they would need if they didn’t have a house to live in.  The basics.  Praise them for thinking of others and tell them how important it is.  It’s the teaching part that really gets me motivated about this project.

Second part: We are inviting children of all ages to join us in making and filling the Easter Bags on March 24, 2012 at 1pm-5pm.  Come for the whole four hours or come after your child’s afternoon nap.   It’s going to be a great opportunity to show children that they can make a difference.

I’ve got all the details up on www.owenslittlewarriors.com (a link is in the black header of the blog too).   Yes that’s right … the Little Warriors Website is officially launched as well!!!  Pre-registration for the event on the 24th is appreciated so we have an estimated head count of how many will be joining us.  But walk-ins are always welcome!!!

We made just under 300 ornaments in the first Little Warrior event … do you think we could make 500 Easter Bags??  It’s really all up to you!

Please feel free to email me or we.care.warriors@gmail.com if you have any questions.

Love, Mel

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January 26, 2012 · 7:02 pm

More Little Warriors

Yesterday I had a link posted to my facebook wall from a fellow blog reader.  Thank you so much Katherine for sharing this with me!

Have any of you heard of Craft Hope?  I hadn’t until I clicked on the link.  It’s a website that organizes  service projects based on crafts people can make.  Anyone can participate … anyone who is willing to make handmade crafts that is.

Project 16 is titled Littlest Warriors.  They are making hats & bags for kids with leukemia.  ”You never know when your life is going to change forever.”  Isn’t that the truth?!?!

These kids are real.  Their pain and courage is real.  They are literally fighting for their lives each and every hour.  My Owen fought for his life.  He didn’t win his battle, but maybe these kids will.

I’m sharing this because I plan to make some hats.  I love to make girly things but having all boys I don’t have much use for them.  So I’m stocked up on the purple and pink yarn and I’m going to make as many as hats as I can.  A small donation from my Little Warrior to the Littlest of Warriors.

Love, Mel

Click here for more information on Project 16: Littlest Warriors.

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