Mitch Carlson Benefit

Success!

2008-10-21T17:04:00.012-05:00

The benefit was a resounding success!

Many more came to the dinner than expected, which was wonderful, and many more donated to the auction than expected, which was amazing to behold. There was plenty to bid on, and bid we all did... and went home with loot in our arms and warmth in our hearts.

The raffle winner of Belinda's beautiful sport truck was Marilyn, who immediately bestowed it upon her son, John. As you can see, they both were very happy with the results!

Belinda kisses
her baby goodbye...

... and the winner
collects her prize!

'Tis better to give
than to receive!

Or maybe not...

Happy Trails!

Our thanks to all of you for your generosity, kindness, support, and friendship - the family was literally overwhelmed, and couldn't be more grateful.

We will update this website on occasion to let you know how Mitch is doing - so come on back and visit us when you can!

Bracelet & Earring Sets

2008-10-17T14:46:00.004-05:00

These beautiful bracelet & earring sets were designed and generously donated by bead artist Cathleen Kemper of The Beaded Bird. They are made up of crystal, semi-precious stone and glass beads, and the earring wires are sterling silver.

Reversible Scarf

2008-10-17T08:14:00.007-05:00

Beautiful handknit reversible scarf features bold geometric patterns that twist over a dark green heathered wool. This original design is unique to this auction, and will look great on either man or woman.

Designed, knit and donated by fiber artist Eileen Maloney of Knot All That.

Reluctantly modeled by running-late-for-class Brennan Blomgren.

Vikings Ticket Packages

2008-10-16T22:32:00.003-05:00

2 Pairs of tickets for the Minnesota Vikings Game 6 against the Houston Texans on Sunday, Nov. 2 at 12:00pm.

2 are for Sect 230 Row 19 - That’s 2nd tier 50 yard line!!

2 are for Sect 226 Row 10 – 2nd tier - 4 sections to the right of 50 yard line

For seating infor, go to:
http://www.gotickets.com/seating_charts/football/hhh_metrodome.php

These two 2-ticket packages were generously donated by Local 638

Hand Crafted Musical Instrument

2008-10-16T22:20:00.004-05:00

Gorgeous handcrafted of solid oak, with no nails, screws or pins, this Tone Box is an instrument that will provide years of spontaneous musical enjoyment - no serious study required!
No two identical, no two tones identical; this fun, unique instrument was handcrafted and donated by Tim Nelson

Baby Hat & Blanket Set

2008-10-16T18:56:00.002-05:00

They may be ice blue, but these baby-soft items will keep the icy winds of winter far away from your little one! Lovingly handmade and donated by Brenda Cox.

Baby Hat & Scarf Set

2008-10-16T18:50:00.003-05:00

Beautiful rainbow pastel hat and scarf that will wrap your baby in love and warmth all winter long, handmade and generously donated by Brenda Cox.

Saints 4 Pack

2008-10-16T18:44:00.002-05:00

4-Pack Saints general admission tickets, generously donated by the Saint Paul Saints

Wee Mad Road

2008-10-15T17:35:00.005-05:00

A copy of "The Wee Mad Road", autographed and donated by the authors, Barbara and Jack Maloney.

This whimsical autobiography recounts the adventures of a local Twin Cities couple who 'run away' from their comfortable suburban home to live in a small village in the Scottish Highlands. In turns funny and touching, this richly illustrated book covers everything from lovelorn sheep to suspected spies, from Christmas Tea to Flaming Whisky, from shepherds to lairds, from electric faucets to electric sporrans.
Spend an evening or two traveling with the Maloneys on The Wee Mad Road - you'll be glad you did!

Generously donated by Barbara & Jack Maloney. To find out more about their adventures, visit Barbara's blog,
"Life on the Wee Mad Road"

The Maloneys will be giving a free reading of their book at the Central Public Library in Downtown St. Paul this Sunday, Oct. 19th, at
2pm... stop by and visit, they'd love to see you!

Sunny Silk Flower Arrangement

2008-10-15T17:31:00.003-05:00

These beautifully arranged flowers will brighten your home and your mood all year long!

Arranged and generously donated by Barbara Maloney

Cozy Night In

2008-10-14T16:38:00.002-05:00

A blanket to wrap yourself on a cold winter's night, a mug of hot chocolate, a smiling Santa winking from the Christmas tree, and a candle's warm glow to light your way - what more could you want for a cozy evening at home?

Donated by John Cox, Nancy Blomgren, and the Blomgren Clan

Baby Scrapbook

2008-10-14T16:33:00.005-05:00

Buy one or both, here are all the scrapbooking supplies you need to create a beautiful treasury of those too-fleeting baby years!

Generously donated by Joel & Belinda Blomgren

Halloween Party Bucket

2008-10-14T16:29:00.003-05:00

Trick yourself or treat the kids - with this Halloween bucket of goodies, you've got everything you need for a scary good party!

Generously donated by Melissa Hassebroek

Grilling Party Package

2008-10-14T16:26:00.002-05:00

Everything you need for a special night with friends - everything but the meat, basket included!

Generously donated by Del and Lois Bolen

Family Night Fun

2008-10-14T16:23:00.003-05:00

A basket of goodies and games to make your next Family Night a special event!

Generous donation from Melissa Hassebroek

Silver Wire Necklace

2008-10-14T16:18:00.003-05:00

Dorie of Dorie Bliss Designs is an artist from Cambridge, MN. She crochets jewelry with fine gauge, precious metal wire (silver, gold-filled, copper) and adds semi-precious stones and European glass beads. Each piece is carefully hand crafted and complemented with sterling silver or gold-filled chain, silk ribbon or genuine leather cord.
All designs are original.

Contact Dorie for custom work or information about home parties (hostess discount)
dorieblissdesigns@gmail.com

Uptown Art Fair Commemorative Print

2008-10-14T14:27:00.003-05:00

Beautifully framed and matted commemorative 2003 Uptown Art Fair print, generously donated by Belinda Blomgren

Ray-Ban Glasses & Kit

2008-10-14T14:22:00.004-05:00

This valuable Ray-Ban Sunglasses & Care Kit was generously donated by LensCrafters.

Santa's Here

2008-10-14T14:17:00.002-05:00

This charming Christmas scene was printed on fabric and then embellished with handstitched needlework by talented donor Nancy Blomgren - a beautiful addition to your home holiday decorations!

Jeff Gordon Shirt

2008-10-14T14:09:00.003-05:00

Beautiful red Jeff Gordon NASCAR racing shirt, child's size 10

Generously donated by Nancy Dobbins

Girl U Sparkle Set

2008-10-14T14:05:00.004-05:00

These Girl U Sparkle beaded glasses holders and bracelet were all generously donated by Christine Plaza

Avon Village

2008-10-14T14:00:00.002-05:00

This 3-piece ceramic Avon Village will light up your mantel or holiday window display!

Generously donated by Dawn Antonson

Autographed Kim Johnsson Card

2008-10-14T13:54:00.001-05:00

Autographed 5x7 card of Minnesota Wild defenseman Kim Johnsson, #5
Donated by the Minnesota Wild

Anne Taylor Cashmere Set

2008-10-14T13:50:00.002-05:00

This gorgeous teal-colored Anne Taylor cashmere scarf and glove set will keep you bundled up against the cold all winter! Generously donated by Belinda Blomgren.

Wild Tickets

2008-10-14T13:44:00.002-05:00

A 2-ticket package to the Minnesota Wild March 10, 2009 home game against the San Jose Sharks. Should be an exciting match! These tickets were generously donated by Tracy Peters.

Handcrafted Jewelry and Bedtime Pals

2008-10-14T13:14:00.003-05:00

Artist Denise of StarsUponThars has generously donated several handcrafted items for auction.

Several beautiful original bamboo and Swarovski Crystal pendants;

"Pillow Buddies" created to improve breathing and assist sleep, filled with Eucalyptus leaves, French Lavender, rice and flax seed;

Light blue Face Comforters filled with a similar mix to the Pillow Buddies, except with more lavendar and less eucalyptus, which can either be warmed and placed on forehead for sinus headaches or kept in a plastic bag in the freezer for migraines or swelling;

Three hair braids of "art yarns" attached to leather and sewn to a french beret .

Denise is an original and eclectic artist, as well as an avid supporter of social causes. You can find out more about her on her blog, Eyes of Time.

Twins Calendar

2008-10-14T13:07:00.003-05:00

"Metrodome Memories" calendar, Oct. 2008-Dec. 2009, plus autographed relief pitcher Joe Nathan card. Donated by the Minnesota Twins.

Autumn Wall Hanging

2008-10-10T17:16:00.003-05:00

This gorgeous quilted wall hanging was created by textile artist Diane Hassebroek and generously donated by Melissa Hassebroek just in time to brighten your home for the Harvest season!

Original Painting: Farmer's Market

2008-10-10T17:08:00.003-05:00

This evocative original painting by artist Alice Lysdahl will bring all the rich scents and warm colors of the harvest to your home all year long. Just looking at it makes me hungry!

Autographed Nick Schultz Photo

2008-10-10T16:58:00.002-05:00

This personally autographed 5 x 7 photo of Minnesota Wild defensive hero Nick Schultz was generously donated by the Wild, themselves. Thanks, guys!

Holiday Time Candle Gift Set

2008-10-10T16:45:00.005-05:00

These beautiful burgundy and gold candles and matching gilded pedestal will cast a warm glow over your holidays!

donated by Belinda and Joel Blomgren

Minnesota Thunder Four-Pack

2008-10-10T16:37:00.004-05:00

Soccer, long a favorite sport in other parts of the world, is finally coming into its own in the U.S. Now you can be part of the action! The Minnesota Thunder have generously donated this general admission 4-pack of tickets, good for any regular season home game.

MN Timberwolves Ticket Package

2008-10-10T16:23:00.005-05:00

There is nothing quite like the fast-paced action of a live NBA game, and with these four Minnesota Timberwolves tickets, you can be there to see the amazing no-look passes, extraordinary slam dunks, and last second shots. Go to the Target Center with three of your favorite basketball fans and see the first of the T'Wolves' two scheduled battles with the Utah Jazz on December 9, 2008 - these tickets were generously donated by the Timberwolves, themselves, who will do their best not to disappoint!

Vanilla Dreams Candle Garden

2008-10-10T16:16:00.003-05:00

Just in time for the upcoming seasonal festivities, Nancy Blomgren has donated this beautiful decorative candle garden to grace your holiday table!

Osbourne-O-Mania!

2008-10-10T16:06:00.003-05:00

Get on the CRAZY TRAIN and play this game... how well do you really know Ozzie??

Travel through the Osbourne household as a member of America's newest favorite family and find out if you've got what it takes to be an Osbourne. Answer outrageous trivia questions from the Osbourne television show and Ozzy's rockin' years. Each correct answer earns you a cool Ozzy Million. Learn some valuable wisdom from the Osbourne family and a chance to win more cash. Be the first Osbourne to collect 10 Ozzy Millions, and you win the game!

Brewing Adventure!

2008-10-06T09:03:00.003-05:00

A fabulous Brewing Adventure at Vine Park Brewing Company - what more could you want? You will get 2 nights of fun at the Wednesday Night Brew Club learning to brew, bottle and cap your own beer, and return home with a valuable new skill and 3 cases of six different kinds of beer. We are very grateful to our friends Andy and Dan at Vine Park for what we expect to be their very popular donation!

* You must, of course, be 21 or older to bid on or make use of this item.

Commemorative Hockey Puck Series

2008-10-06T08:42:00.002-05:00

For the hockey fan and memorabilia collector, this is a full four piece collection of the Minnesota Wild's 2008 Greatest Goals commemorative hockey pucks, generously donated by Tracey Peters. Each puck features a photo depicting one of the four greatest goals scored by the Minnesota Wild at the Xcel Energy Center.

The pucks feature:

~Darby_Hendrickson scoring the Minnesota Wild's first ever goal
~Richard Park scoring the game winning goal in WCQ Game 6
~Brian Rolston's slap shot win against Vancouver Canucks
~Pierre-Marc Bouchard's spin-o-rama shootout goal

Adrian Peterson Collectible

2008-10-06T08:14:00.004-05:00

For the lucky Vikings fan or collector of sports memorabilia, this is a valuable 8x10 glossy photo of NFL 2007 Offensive Rookie of the Year and 2008 NFL Pro Bowl MVP Adrian Peterson of the Minnesota Vikings, signed by Peterson and authenticated. This one-of-a-kind photo was taken by a professional photographer, developed at a photo lab, and signed by Peterson himself; it is officially licensed and documented by Photo File, Inc., and documentation is included. The value of this collectible is likely to go up over time, so don't miss this excellent opportunity!

Felted Bowls

2008-10-06T07:58:00.004-05:00

These lovely decorative bowls were designed and handcrafted by artisan Timary Peterson of TimaryArt. Timary is a fiber artist specializing in crochet and felted designs; her work can be found at her Etsy.com site and on her blog.

These bowls will be auctioned as a set; for the crafty buyer Timary will generously include her pattern, as well, so that you can make more bowls of your own.

Avon Collectible Plates, 1986

2008-10-06T07:48:00.004-05:00

These beautiful collectible porcelain plates date from 1986, and all come with musical stands that play the appropriate song depicted in the image from the musical. They will be auctioned off separately, but would make a beautiful display as a set!

Auction Item: Explorer's Guide

2008-09-30T16:06:00.004-05:00

I first met writer and former travel agent Amy Rea through her popular and highly entertaining knitting and cooking blog, Knit Think. This year, Amy authored a new book, "Minnesota, Land of 10,000 Lakes: An Explorer's Guide," and we've got a signed copy for our auction!

The publisher wanted to make use of our famous state motto, thus the book's official title - but Amy has done her homework, and is very aware that the lake count is considerably higher. She did most of her exhaustive research in person, on site, and her book shows it. Within these 400+ pages you will find tourist spots and secluded woods, chocolatiers and local dives, swanky lodges and cabins for families on a budget. If you hunt, fish, hike, shop, eat, play, or simply drive around and enjoy our unique and beautiful state, you will find new and wonderful places to explore.

Amy is still doing research; she really loves Minnesota! You can find new and updated information on her travel blog here.

Auction Item: Cherries Supreme Jewelry Set

2008-09-30T14:49:00.005-05:00

This beautiful necklace and earring set was created and donated by Wilma, of Wilma's Whimseys. Here she describes how her jewelry is made:

"All my beads are handmade using Italian glass. This particular set has a mixture of colors. Each bead which is made with glass that is melted on a torch that consists of a mixture of oxygen and propane and wound on a mandrel. For the oxygen we (beaders) use oxygen concentrators, and are always looking for used ones that are no longer needed. I have applied different colors of pink and white and swirled them to make the effects that you see. they are then put into a 1000 degree kiln and annealed, a process which takes 5 hours. Creating the piece does not come easy. The beads usually sit there for sometimes a month until a pattern develops in my mind. I use only sterling silver in my findings (clasp, jump rings, bead caps and sterling beads) for not only the beauty, but so many people are allergic to metals and sterling is one that can be worn by mostly everyone. I use the magnetic clasps and large lobster claw hooks for those who have trouble with their hands. These items make it easier to get the pieces on and off. also for nursing mothers if baby tugs on the necklace, the strand won't break, the magnetic clasp just comes undone.

I have been making beads for 2 1/2 years now and it is a hobby that I love. I sell my beads on Etsy under the name of www.whimsey.etsy.com for those who like to make their own jewelry, as well as my website where I now have started making and selling my jewelry."

Auction Item: Handcrafted Hat

2008-09-29T11:59:00.004-05:00

This beautiful handcrafted hat was created by the talented Jane Carlstrom of Glorious Hats and Felt Sew Crafty. The patch is an example of how Jane mixes fiber art and needle art techniques. Her animal silhouette patches are a combination of needle felting, fiber fusion and thread applique.

Jane has been a very enthusiastic and valuable assistant in getting the word out about the benefit, and we expect this unique item will attract quite a bit of interest at the auction. Thanks for everything, Jane, you are an inspiration!

Raffle!

2008-09-28T14:41:00.007-05:00

Try your luck at winning a 1997 Ford Explorer Sport - Raffle Tickets only $2.00!

All leather interior, moon roof, 6 CD player, oversized tires

Drawing held at the Benefit fundraiser; winner need not be present to win.

Tickets available NOW through October 18, 2008 at:

KRAUS-HARTIG V.F.W. POST #6587
8100 Pleasant View Drive Spring Lake Park, MN 55432