Luck Be A Ladybug – It takes Tricia Bartley one week to design 50 packets of pocket-sized clay ladybugs. Once created, Bartley distributes the small packages throughout the borough of NDG, randomly placing one small bag at a time in various spots.
Each bag contains a handful of the clay ladybugs, and two messages of hope that she helps will uplift spirits and spread joy. Batley’s business, Pocket Lady Bugs, was established in September of 2019 as a way to help support her family and give back to Single Momtreal, an organization that she says helped her when times were difficult.
Until recently, Bartley had been selling her ladybugs for $5 per set through social media and word of mouth. Sales have dropped since the city shut down, but Bartley saw an opportunity to help.
…it is my nature fo help, and I knew that there were people who needed that feeling of hope and togetherness. I have always tried to be a kind person and try to lead by that example. I may not have a lot, but I do have a lot of love, and I enjoy making people happy, she says.
Her ladybugs have been all over the world, including Honduras, Australia, Peru, Germany, the United States, and several spots in Canada. Now she brings her ladybugs home to her neighborhood. So far, she has delivered 75 sets of ladybugs and plans to give upwards of 150 more.
I walk up and down my neighborhood, starting from Upper Lachine as far as Somerled and from Cavendish to Decarie. I always have one or two in my bag at all times, so if I go into a store, I will leave a set for store staff – just a small gesture to say thank you for all the extra work they do during this difficult time.
The response to Bartley’s ladybugs has been positive.
I have received many messages from strangers through Facebook, email, and Instagram thanking me for the gift. I have also received messages asking if I could drop off a ladybug at a particular address to help somebody in need. If I can put a smile on someone’s face, then I have done what I set out to do.
For all orders email.
Feature image: NDG mom Tricia Bartley spreading joy one Lady Bug at a time
By: Harriette Halepis – [email protected]
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