Here is a brief introduction to everyone who stitches for our cause. Some have their own blogs linked to us so that you can get to know them better. Have a visit to see what they are up to and what projects they are working on.

Diane Abatuno, RI - A native of North Providence, Rhode Island, Diane has returned to the house in which she grew up. She lives with her two teens, Matthew and Maria; she has one other son, Joshua, who serves proudly in the Rhode Island National Guard. The family is rounded out by Matthew's chinchillas, Magellen and Balboa, 4 cats, and one housemate.
Diane is employed by the Providence Public Library where she works in the Reference Department as a clerk. She learned cross stitch and other needlecrafts beginning at age 10, from her mother. Cross stitch quickly became her favorite hobby and remains so today. She also paints in acrylics, and devours 8-10 books a month, as reading is a passion for her.

Kim Coleman, NY - Kim is my 19-yr-old daughter. She studies Foreign Language at Stony Brook University; she speaks French, Italian, Russain, and is now studying Hindi too! Kim also competes in ballroom dance. She's a sensitive kid with a Big Heart!!!

Mary Harrison, ME - My name is Mary. I am currently a student at Husson College, working toward my teaching degree. I have a daughter named Titania Lynn, and a husband named Josh. We live in Stephen King's neighborhood - Bangor. My husband and I are both avid readers. We are both editors with the company RedBrick Limited, located in New Zealand. I love to play games, computer, console, table top role-playing games, board games, or puzzlegames. I spend any free time I can find stitching for family.

Vicki Miller, KY - My name is Vicki, I'm 46, married and love to xstitch. This is the first time I have stitched anything for a charity but think it is a great idea. The kids who receive these bears really need our love and support. I do not have any kids of my own so this also gives me a chance to stitch something for someone who needs it.

Margaret Noble, UK - Hello, my name is Margaret. I am nearly 70-yrs-old and live in the UK. I love being part of the Keepsake Exchange. My interests are xstitching and reading.

Michelle Parsons, MA - Hi, I'm Michelle. I'm 26 and an avid reader, cross stitcher, volunteer and cook. I enjoy spending time with friends, and starting new projects. I started a book club about a year ago and its really taken off. Next step on the highway of life is going back to school for my Masters.

Donna Quinones, NY - That's me. Loving mom of three, cross-stitcher, former recreational counselor, and an advocate for mental health.

Elise Reilly, MT - Hi! My name is Elise. I am a stay at home mom of 3 wonderful kids. My husband and I live on a cattle ranch and that keeps me busy too. I love to cross stitch and read.

Jennifer Spinks, NJ - I live in north-western NJ with my husband and two step-children. I manage the office of a tractor-trailer repair shop. Cross-stitching has been a hobby of mine since I was about 10 years old when I taught myself how to stitch. I've stitched off and on throughout the years and have really gotten back into stitching over the last five years or so. I'm excited to be helping out with a charity that involves two of my favorite things - teddies and stitching!

Diane Stabeler, UK - Hello, My name is Diane. I am 44-years-old and as I work away from home, doing 12 hour days, I need to relax. I love xstitching for this, and I adore to help kids when I can.