I write to you so many times about the things that inspire me…about my work and new-found creativity.  About our homes, for creating a haven, our love for our families.
After spending the afternoon reading about something much more important than paint colors, I am inspired beyond words.
I am shaking as I write this, my eyes full of tears, and I only pray that it’s okay I’m sharing this.  I just can’t help but introduce you to this incredible woman and friend.
Through email and talking with Jessica about pieces for her home, she shared this with me…
“Our first and only child, a daughter, Parker Reese, died 4.5 years ago after a battle with a rare birth defect. She lived for 20 amazing hours. It’s been quite a journey for us…I’m so blessed to have “met” you, Shaunna. You have inspired me in so many ways and for that I will forever be grateful. And I’ll be keeping an eye out on pieces courtesy of the fabulous Shaunna.”
Jessica started The Parker Reese Foundation in memory of her daughter, to help support families with children diagnosed with a rare birth defect called congenital diaphragmatic hernia or CDH.  They have also opened Parker’s House, a home available for families with children diagnosed with CDH being treated at Duke Hospital in North Carolina.  
Jessica, you inspire me.
I am amazed at your strength and light in such darkness.
I am truly humbled and in awe of your willingness to give so much to others to bring awareness and support.  You can visit The Parker Reese Foundation blog and website to find out more about CDH and what the foundation is involved in.
I know that we all have our own joys, our own triumphs, our own pain.  I am moved by you, Jessica, and your spirit.  What a selfless friend, wife, and mother you must be.
I cannot help but pray this blessing on you and your family…
“I pray that out of his glorious riches He may strengthen you in your inner being…and I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power…that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.”  Ephesians 3:16-19   
I had plans of giving away some things for the 1000 subscribers we have attracted here, but things are not what make us all support and spend time with each other.  And because of that, I had something else in mind. If it’s okay with you guys, in lieu of a traditional giveaway, I’d like to host a sort of fundraiser for The Parker Reese Foundation.  Even if every person that read this blog donated $1, that would be thousands for such a wonderful cause. 
 And somehow, for every person that leaves a comment to tell me they donated or pledges to donate, I’ll find a way to raise enough to match that.   Spread the word, and let your friends know, too! Now, let me be honest…if we work up to a few thousand dollars, it might take me a while…but we’ll get it done! 🙂
You guys can visit The Parker Reese Foundation’s website to donate HERE.
You guys can also say hello to Jessica on her blog, Simply a Farmer’s Wife, to read about her day to day and home projects.  (She has a beautiful bedroom makeover posted right now 🙂
I also want to take a second to say that I love reading about your projects, about your light-hearted joys.  But I know that you, just like me, have pain and fight battles.  We overcome and create, love and smile.  But we do all fail, we stumble, we cry.  And I’m thinking of you all; I do pray a blessing of strength and peace and comfort for each of you.  I guess, what I’m trying to say is, just know that I’m here if you ever need me….for more than just painting tips.
🙂

“This foundation was created January 1, 2008 in memory of our daughter, Parker Reese. She was born with a rare birth defect known as congenital diaphragmatic hernia or CDH. Our mission has always been to help other families like our own through their journey with CDH. The foundation was created in Parker’s name but it represents all children and families of CDH. If there is anything our foundation can assist you with please contact us at

The Parker Reese Foundation
Post Office Box 2199
Elizabethtown, NC 28337
1-888-PRF-CDH0
http://www.theparkerreesefoundation.com/
http://theparkerreesefoundation.wordpress.com/