I met Addy when she attended Old Town Montessori School with my daughter, Blair. They were in different classes, so I didn't know her well, but it was a small place, so everyone knew everyone. Fast forward ten years and our paths have crossed even though she moved out of Alexandria a few years back. I have kept up on her health challenges over the years, as we have many mutual friends. But I perked up when I was sitting at baseball last week, and a woman mentioned that her friend's daughter was selling jewelry at Del Ray's Art on the Avenue. Later that same night, I got a text about Raendrop Art, and I finally connected the dots: they were both Addy. 

When I logged on and learned more about the organization, I could not be more impressed. I had followed Addy's health journey from afar, and to see her turn her experience into something that helps others was amazing. Addy is a two-time cancer survivor and understands how isolating and lonely a hospital can be. She started Raendrop Art to raise money to create boxes of product-focused art supplies in connection with artist-led classes for teens who are hospitalized.

Addy has made beautiful jewelry to raise money for her organization, and she is going to sell her collection this weekend in the courtyard at The Shoe Hive. The pieces are made by hand with care and are so creative - and one of my favorites isn't even jewelry; it is her trinket dishes. They will be my go-to hostess gift this holiday season. I hope you will stop by and shop and support this budding artist, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. And, she is only 13 years old! I am so impressed by her hard work and creativity. If you can't stop by, you can make an online donation or message us, and we will make sure you can buy over the phone. 

Click here to donate or stop by and see Addy in person.