 Melissa Kelley ready for her neighborhood parade At the Free Bookmobile, we feel strongly about service to one’s community and thereby to one’s nation. America has a very proud tradition of creative, hard-working folks making a difference, making an positive impact on each other. It’s been our quest since the beginning to fly our flag and play our anthem in recognition of this spirit – the spirit in which we crafted the bookmobile. So we were very happy this Independence Day to finally realize that dream, on our second anniversary!
We served our fellow citizens, our fellow Americans, at no less than four different events – a single-day record for the bookmobile. After beginning with the runners in Kenwood at the Hometown Breakfast fundraiser, we had the pleasure of joining a neighborhood parade and book drive near the home of Literary Arts Guild Director Melissa Kelley. Melissa puts a terrific quality of care and dedication into the Free Bookmobile and it seemed just right to capture her with our beautiful new quilted flag, created by Lois Breida.
Lois is a Friend of the Seaside Library near Monterey, where she met my mother, Sandra Weaver, who is a past president. My mom wasn’t always involved with the library but her dedication and long hours when raising kids (and working full-time) nonetheless inspired me while launching the Free Bookmobile.
Lois learned of our project through Sandra and was moved to help by lending her quilting skills. Despite some challenges during the process, she produced a quilt with special touches such as the stars and fireworks patterns on the fabric, and the inspirational words on the back. We are proud to hang it by the driver window, visible to all who board the vehicle, and will likely keep it there year-round.
The parade was full of excitement, all the kids got books and bookmarks at the end, and then we set sail for Boyes Hot Springs and other eastern provinces. It was a great Independence Day. Thank you, Lois, for helping make our dreams come true!
With gratitude,
Glen
 Lois Breida with her creation
|