A week ago this time, Sun Prairie was just waking up and the days’ bustle was getting started. Morning walks were being taken, toast being served and minds were getting ready to work.

I had 3 greeting card sessions that day followed by volunteering at Gilda’s Club as kitchen host with an alumni Girl Scout troop. It was a busy day for me.

My last task for the day was to deliver a product order to DeForest on my way back from Gilda’s in Middleton. I head east, then north and then south to home. On my journey south, the sky was filled with black smoke that grew larger the closer I got to home.

My initial thought is that is not good; I hope no one is hurt. The smoke seems to be over PAC, close to where I live. As I change direction, I can see it is further south and east. I arrive home with neighbors outside looking around. Jim said the house rattled but sounded different than the garage door and my car. When I did not enter the house, he checked the garage to see I was not home so he knew it was something else.

As the events unfolded, we learned of the destruction and the price paid from the fallen firefighter. Life changes in an instant.

We were asked to stay away from the area so emergency workers could do their job. I had a senior living session at a community that is just inside the evacuation zone on Wednesday morning. I knew the residents were back in their community so I packed my supply tub light in case I had to walk in. I was able to park in their lot with the police barricade just beyond the driveway. Residents were so appreciative that I held the session. It made such a difference to their day that I was there. I like to think I make a difference during every other session too. Insert smiley emoji here:)

It’s been a week since since that day when life changed in an instant for many. Businesses are boarded, fences up to maintain a parameter around the zone and a final farewell for the firefighter was done.

Sun Prairie is taking steps to help those affected with #sunprairiestrong support. As I was reading about how other businesses and people were raising funds, I have an idea how my business can help. I already have a Card Buffet on my schedule for this Sunday, July 22nd, 1-3pm and Monday, July 23rd, 9-11am. Anyone that places an online order using host code 7UY9EASY at my online store can stop in during Card Buffet hours and hand stamp a greeting card on me. I will donate 25% of online orders placed using host code 7UY9EASY. The donation will be made to Sunshine Place, which provides a single point of access to social services for Sun Prairie residents to support themselves in time of need.

I look forward to meeting you at the buffet to help others after their Life Changes in an Instant.

Super Awesome Stamper Shirley

#sunprairiestrong #sunshineplace #differencemaker #cardsforacause #purplewillpullusthrough