We hear from consumers every day. Many have routine requests or questions. Some share stories about their crafting that are funny or odd, and occasionally there are those who describe how crafts have helped them achieve personal victories or overcome physical or emotional challenges. We love our consumers because they are a community of all kinds of people from all walks of life who find creative expression an essential part of their lives. We are proud to be part of that.
Recently, we received the below letter, which touched us and moved us to action. We wanted to share this story with you, and perhaps you will feel the same.
July 14, 2010
Dear Dimensions,
Years ago I remember seeing an infomercial for something called the perfect punch kit. I remember my sister and I both wanted it but of course, our parents being sensible, did not let us spend our money on a product from an infomercial.
Now as an adult, you can imagine how thrilled I was to see something similar at the local Michael’s. The product was Punch Needle Kit #73092 Kitty in Window. I purchased the kit, needle, needle threaders, and an embroidery hoop.
I didn’t start the kit right away though. You see, I was home in Alexandria, VA visiting my parents before deployment. Mom and I were out looking for crafts I could do while I was in Iraq. I began the project a couple of weeks ago while we were in Kuwait, waiting for our flight here. We spent a good twelve hours waiting so I was so glad I had brought the punch needle project along with me.
The kit was great. The fact that everything was pre-cut and that I didn’t need anything else was great. I had put everything into a Ziploc bag and then carried it around in my cargo pocket. I did a little here and a little there, sometimes before bed.
One day my supervisor saw it and was very curious. She watched as I easily punched the needle in and out making a picture. She loved it. I let my mom know and mom quickly sent a package with a kit for her to do. But alas, no extra hoop, so I had to hurry and finish mine, so that she could use the hoop. Since then, all of the girls in my unit have seen me working on it and it has inspired us to start a craft club.
I told my mom all about the craft club and yesterday I received a package from her with four different punch kits, fabric, paint and some other crafty odds and ends. We are all excited to have something fun to do and look forward to between our craft club meets.
So, thank you Dimensions, for inspiring soldiers here in Baghdad, Iraq and giving us something to do to keep up our morale.
Sincerely,
PFC Henry, Kelley
Unit 42129
APO AE, 09342
The benefit these servicewomen get from crafting is obvious from the smiles on their faces. The camo clothing and weapon on the hip, however, are vivid reminders of their presence in a war zone and the dangers they face every day. If you would like to contribute to the morale of our service people, please visit these links:
AnySoldier.comOperation USO Care PackageSupportOurTroops.orgShipping Tips from USPSTo Ms. Henry and all our Armed Forces around the world, we are grateful for your service. Godspeed.Kristel