Heartwarming Photo of Hardworking Woman Shared by New Mexico Shop

While scrolling through Facebook I came across a photo that just instantly made me smile.

Blanca M. Rios shared a photo of her mother ironing some aprons, which may seem basic but is somewhat magical. I do come across many people working on crafts or supporting their local businesses on Facebook and I love to see it.

But Blanca's photo just has this fascinating way of making you appreciate her mom, even if you do not know her.

For 20 years, Blanca's mother, Maria Portillo, has been making aprons for the family.

For the past two years, these aprons have been available for the public to purchase inside Blanca's shop, Blanca's Bridal & Floral in Clovis, New Mexico.

There is something special about owning an item made locally with love. The appreciation for all the hard work that goes into something handmade seems to be something overlooked in our current culture.

Especially during the height of the pandemic, as businesses were failing, it was sad to see so many hardworking people have to close up shop.

While some stores are beginning to thrive again, other stores are still struggling to make it by doing what they love.

For Blanca and her mother, you can tell the happiness that comes from doing what they love; thanks to the photos they share on Blanca's Facebook page.

The smile on Maria's face while ironing her aprons is just so comforting to me and something I hope brings a smile to your face.

While you were reading this, I hope you are inspired to support more local businesses and the people behind them. Not only in El Paso and New Mexico but all over the world.

Sometimes a simple appreciation for a handmade product, like an apron can really brighten someone's day form your favorite local shops. You can even help out local shops just by sharing their social media pages or telling a friend about them. I like to search for local shops in the borderland area and all around Texas through Facebook and Instagram. Here are some that have caught my attention lately.

Make people smile, shop small and start thinking of what local shops to support for all your present needs.