The night owl and the early bird

made by Sara

I am getting excited about tomorrow. And, I must remember to go to the cash point first, as the list of things I have spotted that have been donated that I would like to buy is increasing by the day. Like this angel and soldier, which have been lavished with hand stitched detailing, right down to the holly on the hat and the anchor tattoo on the arm of the angel. Simply brilliant.

They say the early bird catches the worm - just look at the reward for all those willing to get out of their beds early on a Saturday to come early to tomorrow's Bring and Buy. (Cue more excited Lola exclamations) 

painted by Kitty Dinners

made by Sam of Betsy Makes

My friend Anwyn came yesterday, and together we made these heart shaped tree decorations to sell at the Bring and Buy. They come in a range of textiles, from vintage paisley silk, upcycled wool and modern bright cotton prints. Fuelled by tea and chocolate brownies, the two of us stitched into the night, going at a speed undoubtedly slower due to all the gossiping we got done.

made by night owls

Plenty of people have promised to drop in throughout the day, armed with a hand crafted gift or two to donate, so there will hopefully be something to tempt buyers to come to Fancy whatever time they get out of bed at weekends. (I'm just jealous that, as a mum of young children, my days of lying in bed for hours on end on a Saturday are but a distant memory.)

Having checked the latest on the charity website, here is a reminder of why we are doing it:

• Typhoon Haiyan was 300 miles across when it struck the Philippines on 8th November and one of the most intense tropical storms in history.
• Millions of people have been affected, and hundreds of thousands have been left homeless.
• There are countless dead.
• Those who have survived now need urgent help including emergency shelter, clean water and food.
• The DEC has been working with lots of agencies already based in the different islands, making sure the money it receives goes to help the people who need it fast.
• 700,000 people have already been helped.

If you cannot come and join the fun tomorrow, but want to give, the Disasters Emergency Committee is an easy place to donate through.