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Mother-daughter project a reminder good things do happen

Cathy Dobson The owners of a local art studio for children are taking their personal philosophy about giving at Christmas and asking the community to join in.
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The owners of Greenafish Art Studio want to provide a Christmas surprise for a local family that’s had a troubled year. From left are Shawna Bowers, her daughter Harlow, 2, and her mom Peggy Bowers.

Cathy Dobson

The owners of a local art studio for children are taking their personal philosophy about giving at Christmas and asking the community to join in.

Peggy and Shawna Bowers at Greenafish Art Studio on East Street are holding a Christmas open house on Dec. 17 and 18 to raise money and collect toys for a family who “could use a little cheer” at this time of year.

It’s not so much about supporting a family in financial need as it is about trying to restore a little faith that there is some good in this world, says Peggy Bowers.

“We want to help heal the heart,” she said.

Teaching children the spirit of giving and kindness at Christmas was always emphasized in the Bowers household.

Peggy raised her children to delight in this time of year and understand that it isn’t about what you get; it’s about what you give.

In turn, her daughter Shawna says she is trying to teach her children that it’s better to give than to receive.

The mother-daughter team bought the Greenafish studio last summer and offer fun and creative art classes to children ages 0 to 12.

As their first Christmas with their new business venture approached, they wanted to take on a special project that would teach their young students the same values that they have always upheld in their own family.

“We thought how much fun it would be if we did something extra special for a family that was having a rough time,” said Shawna.

“There are a lot of people that have trouble feeling good at this time of year. We want to remind them that good things do happen.”

It wasn’t long before a friend identified a recently bereaved mother with five children, including a new baby.

“We really want to do something to cheer them up,” said Peggy.

On Dec. 17 and 18, local residents are invited to drop in at Greenafish Art Studio to do some free Christmas crafts with their kids, enjoy treats and a hot chocolate bar, and contribute a donation and/or an unwrapped gift for the family. Donation boxes are also at Moda Hair salons in Corunna and Sarnia.

“We are also hoping local businesses will donate gift certificates so the mom can get a little pampering,” said Shawna.

The family is unaware of the project and the Bowers don’t want to divulge too much about why they were chosen so.

“We want to just arrive at their house on Dec. 19 with all the donations and presents,” said Peggy. “So many things have happened to her. It would be really nice if we can be Christmas elves and make something nice happen.”

Unwrapped gifts are needed for a six-month baby boy, a five-year-old girl, a six-year-old boy, a seven-year-old girl and a nine-year-old boy.

Greenafish Art Studio is located at 100 East St. S. next to the St. Vincent de Paul store. The open house runs Dec. 17 and 18 from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.  Call 519-464-8093 with any questions.

The Arts Journal is about the cultural fabric of our community. If you have a story idea, contact [email protected] or call 226-932-0985.


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