What are your comfort items?
I have a friend who needs some cheering up. She has had many difficult circumstances in her life and does not have much money to support her family. She is a single mother with sons ranging in age from 13-28. Her home is small and she doesn’t have extra money for luxuries. I, along with my parents and siblings, have been raising money to surprise her with some things for her home that will help her feel more relaxed and comfortable. We raised almost $400.00 and I don’t know how to spend it. What would you want someone to surprise you with? I was thinking along the lines of the same things you would give for a wedding shower. Many of her possessions are hand-me-downs and I have already bought some fluffy bath towels, mixing bowls with heavy duty spatulas, and drinking glasses. I have been donated some nice picture frames, a wicker basket, books and toys (for her toddler grandson that visits her on weekends), a large area rug, and I’m working on finishing up a quilt with my mom in cheerful blue, yellow and white colors. I’d like to do what is most helpful but would have to spoil the surprise to find out what she can use. Should I do gift cards for the boys and her to Target or a grocery store? Would cash be better so she could spend it where she picks? I just don’t want her to spend it all on practicalities because the idea is to offer her some visual comforts and bit of luxury in her home. All ideas are welcome!!
I wonder if the boys or the Mom are readers?
If so, I can box up some miscellaneous books and send them to you to give.
Would be helpful if I knew which kinds of books they would like.
Mystery, Western, Romance, Non-Fiction, Other?
Also, do they have a car? A tank of gas would be great.
Her story is long and complicated, but I honestly don’t know a whole lot about what she enjoys because she speaks primarily in Spanish and although I took some classes in college, I try to communicate with her in English. Partly because I know vocabulary but can’t really put together sentences in Spanish, and partly because I want to encourage her to talk more in English. So our conversations are limited more to discussing life events. She does not drive but her sons do, a gas card is a great idea too. Thanks.
Did you take a picture when you were at the temple with her ? That would be great in the frame from Erica. I think a plant, with or without flowers.
Since I love flowers, I have to suggest including a flower arrangement or wreath. What a wonderful thing that you are doing–not only for your friend, but for your children to be involved in such a selfless and loving service. You are such a great example!
A candle, the quilt sounds nice, maybe some fun bathroom stuff….a fun matchy set…
That’s a tough one, but I think you are totally on the right track Amy. I like your ideas, and think she will appreciate all of the hard work you and your family have put into this. Especially the quilt, I know how nice it is to snuggle up under a quilt, I’m sure she will really love it!
I was just thinking today how much I love the floor lamp in my family room and the added light that it provides. Additional lighting may be an idea…
In her situation, I would appreciate a couple of sheet sets and maybe a couple of soft bed pillows. The nicer versions of these are a bit expensive for limited incomes and tend to be thought of as luxury items that would be on the “can be skipped for better things” list. I can’t think of much I would love more than sinking into a soft set of newly laundered sheets and knowing that someone loves me enough to have thought of me. Nice warm fuzzies to send one off to sleep!
The quilt is a beautiful, personal idea. Really wonderful!