(Image via Blankets for Deployed Daddies)
There are many, many young military families. And a lot of times, babies are born into these families while the dad is deployed, or he is deployed soon after the birth. Since babies rely on their sense of smell to recognize their parents, Blankets for Deployed Daddies has harnessed this power, and developed a pattern for a knit blanket that maximizes its ability to trap scent (you can download it for free). They ask for volunteers to knit the blankets, and if you're strapped for cash, they'll send you the yarn to use.
Deployed dads sleep with the blanket in their pillowcase and then send it home in a ziplock bag (to keep the scent uncontaminated and fresh). The babies then sleep and play with the blankets, all the while, getting to know their dad through his unique scent. The blankets can hold the scent for three months before needing a "re-charge". Amazing, isn't it?
The scented blanket really helps the babies to bond with their dads when they finally do get to meet since they can recognize him by his smell.
The blankets also provide comfort to a baby/child for years to come, especially each time their dad is deployed.
Blankets for Deployed Daddies are a little particular about some things (the type of yarn, the pattern you use, etc.) so you can find out more about them HERE.
I really encourage each of you to look into this organization. I can only imagine how difficult it must be for these families when a baby is born while the dad is deployed. Having and using one of these blankets is one way that the whole family can feel more connected during that special time.
The sacrifice of our military families is TREMENDOUS, and this is one way that we can serve them and support them. They give us so much.
If you're interested, please check them out.
I'll be posting service oppurtunities every Sunday, so be sure to check back every week.
Have a wonderful Sunday :)
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