Oklahoma

From 2002-2006 I called Oklahoma home.  As a freshman entering Oklahoma City University, I remember having such a peaceful feeling about being on my own in this city.  It was far enough (8 hours) from Odessa to give me the true "on your own-college" experience but close enough that my parentals could jump on a plane if needed.  In OKC I met some of my best friends, made billions of mistakes, conquered many fears, and learned a lot about the adult I wanted to be.  Even after graduating, I knew that OKC would always be a part of me.

My heart is BROKEN to hear about the families and people who literally lost everything in the tornado yesterday.  I know so many people who are from Moore, OK, who work there, who's families still live there.  My cousin's fiancé is a teacher at the high school in Moore and if anything had happened to Macie our family would have come unglued to say the least.  To think that in just an instant people's belongings and even worse, lives are gone, just puts pit in my stomach.

However, I am so comforted by seeing how quickly people are jumping at the chance to help!  Both my Facebook and Instagram feed are filled with people who are texting REDCROSS to 90999 to donate $10, loading their pickups with bottled water and other supplies, and people who are taking in families who have no where to go.  In a world where we tend to see the bad, dark, and negative side of things, it's so nice to see the kind and the compassionate.

pic from www.cbsnews.com

Another fun way to donate is to visit the Hello Merch website.   Hello Merch is an independent company that serves as an outlet for artists to manufacture and sell merchandise online and on tour, without giving up their rights by signing major label-style merch contracts.  You can read more about them by clicking the link above.
Right now, they are selling the Oklahoma Benefit Tank Top for just $15!  All proceeds will be sent to the Oklahoma Red Cross.  According to the Hello Merch site they raised $35,000 with their first round!  Looking stylish and giving back?  Easy pick if you ask me! 

A big THANK YOU to my girl Chelsea Kaye for letting me know about these cute tanks!

I know I'm not alone in this but I am definitely praying for all of my Okies!