"The Mustard Seed...and me (...and a Fashion Benefit on May 22)"

Two years ago, the last of my four children left for college.  I found myself

at home alone a lot-and liking it that way. My wardrobe consisted of sweatpants

and t-shirts (which looked very similar to my pajamas) and I would wear the

same thing every day. Not a pretty sight, but it sure saved on having to do

laundry!

Then last December, I started volunteering at a Lake Forest gift shop called

the Mustard Seed. For those of you not familiar with the store, Mustard Seed is a

fair trade shop: 95 per cent of their product is fair trade.   For those of you

who don't know what "fair trade" means - basically it is a socially responsible

way to shop. The store is committed to paying artisans in developing countries

(many who are women and living in poverty) a fair wage for their work. For most

of these artisans, this allows them to survive and support their families-while

also maintaining their dignity.

Judy Kohl, is the generous, full-of-life owner of the Mustard Seed. (Judy took

over the store last year from Jackie Renwick who is just as beautiful and

generous.)  Judy is at the store almost every day-and just like the rest of the

sales staff-works as a volunteer.  Judy had been asking me for months to

consider volunteering, but I kept putting her off. Finally in December, I agreed

to help out...1-2 days a week... just through the holiday rush.

Before I knew it, however, I found myself at the store 3-5 days a week.  I was

suddenly leaving the house a lot more (and having to do a lot more

laundry!).  Although I am usually the one helping out in the backroom (I’m not

the best salesperson), it has been rewarding being at the store.  

During my five months at the store, I have met so many wonderful Mustard Seed

volunteers, many who have worked there for years.   I have been amazed to see

all the beautiful products available to the store--and to know that by buying them

we are helping thousands of others. Oh, and one more thing: the store may not

make tons of money, but the store donates back all it earns to organizations both

locally and globally. Basically, the store keeps giving back.

Right now, we are all working on Mustard Seed's Annual Fashion Benefit. It's on

May 22 at 1pm.  I've never been to the Benefit, but I can already tell it's very

casual and laid back by North Shore standards.  Guests not only enjoy the

fair trade fashion, but just as importantly, get to spend time with friends,

treat themselves to Amy's homemade desserts and shop with a purpose. 

I am grateful for the opportunity to help others through the Mustard Seed. I

hope to see you at the Benefit (I’ll be the one in the backroom!).

MUSTARD SEED ANNUAL FASHION BENEFIT

Date:   Wednesday, May 22

(Raindate: May 23)

Time:   1pm

Place:  202 E. Westminster, Lake Forest

Cost:    $20 a ticket

Tickets are available at the store and also available at the door the day of

the show.

All proceeds will be donated to SowHope, a global organization that helps and

inspires women living in extreme poverty by promoting wellness, education and

economic opportunities.   

For more information, please contact lfmustardseed@gmail.com or 847.735.0211