“Backpacks of Love” by The Blue Ribbon Project #CricutCause

Welcoming a newborn is quite humbling. You remember the day that you get to sleep through the night. You also realize how much of it you took for granted. Some babies sleep through the night, some just don’t. If you happen to be waking up every 2-3 hours, you can’t help but wish your little bundle of joy would also sleep just as much. It doesn’t mean that you love your baby less. It’s normal to feel such, especially when the exhaustion sets in. You’re a new parent, and that is OKAY. Here’s the thing though, while you are considering that thought, there are families out there who wish they could at least spend some time with theirs. Sounds sad, right? Well, you haven’t even heard half of it.

Have you heard about foster kids? How about the foster care system? I honestly was as clueless as everyone else until I have gotten to know my late mother in law. She used to care for foster kids back then. I have seen the kids come and go. I have also come across the good and the bad ones. I even cared for two with her at one point. I realized that the little kid who was often referred to as a “bad” kid was lashing out as a result of their situation or what they have to go through. Come to think of it, most people don’t realize that these kids had been moved from their respective homes and family. Some kids really needed to be moved from their abusive environment. Then some had to be moved simply because their parent(s) are in a bind or a tough spot. Imagine not being able to make ends meet, can’t keep your lights on or so. This would warrant having the kids taken away. While all that sounds rough, I honestly was even more shocked when I discovered that these kids often had to be moved with NO belonging with them except for the clothes in their back. In those instances that they can grab some things from their home, they are given a trash bag to take their stuff. Yes, a TRASH BAG! Heartbreaking. As a mom, I can only imagine how these kids must be feeling. I tried putting myself in their parents’ shoes. That if I was, I would hope for the best and that they have someone who would be able to care for them as well as show them that they are wanted. Accepted. Welcomed. Most of all … LOVED.

Given that I was raised in the Philippines, I have seen and experienced my fair share of trials and even challenges. I happen to have also been married to a military man who served 20 years. All these contributed to my passion for supporting causes that give back to our community. That if I ever were in such a situation, I would want someone to be there for me too. This is also why I appreciate and commend brands that support causes and offer charitable contributions. The latest cause by Cricut in partnership with “The Blue Ribbon Project” is absolutely near and dear to my heart. It tugs away on my heartstrings and literally is the embodiment of what giving back is all about. This is also why I am super thrilled to be able to partner with Cricut to create a customized “Backpacks of Love” that these kids can truly call their own. An actual bag made with them in our mind. A bag that they can physically treasure and not have to use a TRASH BAG to collect and keep their belongings.

I have decided to personalize 4 backpacks instead of just 2. I figured, why not? When I have additional means, I will create and do more. So far, these are the designs and styling that I have made using my Cricut Explore Air 2!

The backpacks all turned out cute and absolutely darling. I have used a combination of HTV (heat transfer vinyl) and Infusible Ink. I love the vibrant colors and it was SUPER EASY to make! If you’re interested in creating a personalized backpack, check out my post ❝ DIY Personalized Backpack with Cricut ❞ for the easy step-by-step guide!

Want to know more about the Backpacks of Love Project? Visit the ❝ BlueRibbonProject.org ❞ for the complete details. I also encourage you all to follow along with the updates on social media with the hashtag #CricutCause.

XOXO