I recently purchased a new sewing machine.  I have always been fortunate enough to have sewing machines handed down to me but this is the first time I actually purchased my own.  I found Sadie's Dream for a Cure online and thought this would be a perfect way to get used to my new machine.  This is a wonderful Charity that donates tote bags filled with activities for children to do while they are in the hospital receiving cancer treatment.  You can read Sadie's Dream for a Cure's story here.  http://www.sadiesdreamforacure.org/

I found the instructions for my machine on YouTube which was a great way to learn how to use it.  The coffee was especially helpful too :) .  I may or may not have watched Several Hallmark movies during the making of the tote bags.  And it's possible that I'm secretly plotting my family's move to small town where I'll become best friends with the wise owner of the local diner,  but that's a whole different post ;) .

I downloaded the pattern and instructions and the labels were mailed to me.  I requested 4 labels, one for each of my children, however I received 6 so I made all 6 and decided that would be just right because I have 2 grandchildren as well.  I think they usually send extra labels that you can give to someone or you can send them back.  

I chose storybook themes for my main fabrics because most children would be familiar with them and possibly that familiarity could give a small amount of comfort.  

This was a really fun project.  I would rate is as an advanced beginner level if you are considering making a bag. There are other ways to help aside from sewing.  They take donations for items that fill the bags also.   It's always fun to see the instagram posts with pictures of the bags being delivered to the hospitals!  My finished bags will be in the mail tomorrow morning!  :)