As my friend Whitney likes to say, “The Internet is a small place”. This rings so true especially when tragedy strikes, and word travels like wildfire to make the world a much more connected place. Thus we come to “Nie Nie Day”.

The backstory is tragic and emotional. Writer Stephanie Nielson, of the immensely popular Nie Nie Dialogues, and her husband Christian were in a private plane crash last week, and are in critical condition. They have four children, and I have read that their hospital bills will amass over a million dollars. Design Mom, one of my most favorite and long read blogs, first posted about Nie Nie and created “Nie Nie Day” to honor this beautiful family. Additionally, Design Mom emailed bloggers and urged them to hold silent auctions this weekend to help raise money for the Stephanie and Christian Paypal Fund (proceeds will go directly and only to the Nielson family). Man, have people delivered.

Head over to Design Mom and spend the rest of your weekend deciding what to bid on. Whitney from The Silly Wagon has a bunch of adorable items up for grabs over at Tangled and True, along with many other silent auctions. I am not hosting a silent auction, but I will be bidding on a few items. There are SO many to choose from - over 275 auctions in total - ranging from handmade jewelry, baby items, spa services, clothing, and some big ticket goodies that hopefully with raise a ton of money. Some Etsy shops and other on-line stores are offering a portion of sales for the weekend to go directly to the fund, and many have very affordable things - check Design Mom for specific shops.

The response for Nie Nie and her family is truly inspiring. And, when you’re done bidding, go hug your kids and kiss your spouse. Call your family and friends and tell them you love them. Look in the mirror and say hi and remember how lucky you are to have whatever it is you have. Pray if you do, cry if you need to. And please pass this along. Thanks.