You've Brought Joy to our World

With Christmas just around the corner, the ladies are busily finishing off all orders this week before closing Pinky Place on Friday for Christmas and New Year. It’s been an incredible year. We’ve had highs. We’ve had lows. And we’ve had life changing experiences.

I’ve seen the ladies grow from strength-to-strength. I’ve seen them blossom into beautiful, empowered women. They’ve formed incredible friendships with each other and I’m very proud of their hard work and perseverance. They are learning that together, through hard work, love and faith – there is a bright future that they are responsible for.

Chatting to the ladies after Martha and I returned from the 2nd Annual Platinum Awards in Mafikeng last week, I could see how proud and excited they all were of us coming third under the Soft Toys & Furnishings category (Yippee - I’ve posted a picture on the left of Martha’s beautiful Bushfelt creation that we entered into the competition). I truly believe that they all love what they do and that’s the best bit – in their difficult situations – they too have found something to be passionate about and that's what keeps a person motivated.

This year, despite the odds, we’ve survived all sorts of hardships. Martha taking ill and losing her hearing at the beginning of the year, lack of funding, losing two of our ladies – one to HIV and the other to domestic abuse – and sickness and death that forms part of everyday life for each and every lady. It’s seriously been tough out here in Africa – but together and through the love and support of the Heartfelt community – we’ve beaten the odds!

But despite all the hardships we’ve had incredibly special things happen to us too. God is certainly with us every step of the way. That’s why most importantly, we want to thank you all for the kindness and support you’ve shown throughout 2010 – we would not still be doing what we love if it weren’t for all the people who have believed in us and supported us this year. It’s been a truly inspiring journey and we love you all for all the love you’ve shown us.

Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to come out to meet the ladies and Martha (and we all know how much she just loves visitors!!). For every email we have received which someone has taken time out of their day to write to us, and for every order and donation we have received. We are totally humbled by your incredible generosity and your love has changed our lives.

May you and your loved ones have a blessed Christmas and a special New Year. We’re looking forward to being part of your lives again in 2011. Let's fill everything we do next year with passion – after all, why live life any other way.

Go in peace, joy and safety.

All our love,
Julie, Martha & all the Heartfelt Ladies