Hi Everyone! I'm back from a wonderful vacation, and am so appreciative to those who wrote posts for me while I was away.
Today is Memorial Day here in the United States. It's a day we remember the sacrifices of those who died for our freedom. For me, it's a day to reflect on all those who serve others, or who did while they were alive.
Each generation makes substantial changes. Hopefully, most of them are good. Each of us needs to do our part if we want the world to be a better place. We need to set the example we want others to see.
Some things you might consider doing this week- thank your relatives, friends, neighbors, co-workers, elected officials, service people, and anyone else you come in contact with who has helped you in some way. Make sure to be specific about what it is you are so appreciative of.
People crave praise, love, and feelings of worthiness. You can give smiles, hugs, words of gratitude, and if you do, you will be amazed at the way you feel inside afterward.
Today, I'd like to personally thank my entire family,friends, and relatives for all the sacrifices they make for me and others. You are all so appreciated and valued by me.
My sons Steven and Ian serve in the US Army, and I'm so aware of all their hard work. My mother-in law promotes peace, and helps battered women. She grows a wonderful garden and is an environmentalist, as is my step-daughter. My sister serves others as a Methodist minister and hospice chaplain. Her husband is a prison chaplain.
One of my cousins is a fabulous interpreter for the deaf, and her husband a pastor as well. My daughter is studying to become a pharmacist or something else in the medical field. She says she would like to find the cure or better help for fibromyalgia, which I have, and safer pain relievers and medications. One of my sons has just moved back to our town and is very helpful. Right now he is watching my yard sale so I can type this post.
I am blessed, and I'll bet you are too. Show others your gratitude today. You will be so glad you did! Happy Memorial Day and blessings to all who read this.
Monday, May 31, 2010
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Gratitude Will Change Your Life!
Gratitude will change your life!
It's interesting that as I was getting ready to write this guest blog post (I am very grateful to Beth for letting me do this), I looked an email which had this as the lead in:
"What if we assumed that everything the Universe sent to us was "good" for us...even if we didn't see it that way at first?
That would mean that everything that happened during our day was something positive, even if we had a negative reaction or interpreted it as "bad" initially. This new assumption would certainly change our energy quickly, wouldn't it?"
How timely is that - you know there are NO accidents in the universe.
But I digress. The point of my post today (and should be everyday) is that you must incorporate gratitude and an expression of that gratitude in order to receive the best blessings from the universe. Be grateful for everything and I mean everything even if it doesn't appear to be something good for you. The reason for this is that everything is what you declare it to be. If you declare something good, it will be good. If you declare something bad, guess what? It will be bad!
I recommend you journal your "gratitudes" as I call them. And an easy way to do that is to download the free software I created called "The Gratitude Journal" - you can get it at http://www.facebook.com/l/3dec6;www.GratitudeTracker.com .
Now downloading it is not enough by itself. You must use it!!! And you must make that use a routine, daily practice. You can't journal about your gratitude for a few days and then claim that you got nothing in return. That's not the way it works. You must make this a part of your everyday life. Think about it during the day and jot down what you're grateful for (there's a "sticky" in the program that will help those of you who sit at the computer every day).
The universe has to be cared for and you do that by thanking it. Tell the universe how grateful you are for what it's given you. For instance, today I had to go to a doctor's appointment and the parking area at the hospital is always totally full. So, realizing this, I started over the weekend saying that I was so grateful for the close parking space I had. I visualized it and lo and behold today I got a great parking space.
Regardless of the return you get, it's our responsibility to be grateful for all that comes to us. You say thank you to the clerk in a store for doing their job and taking your money. So, why not say thank you to the Universe for all the good it's given to you.
Go get your Gratitude Journal now and begin thanking the Universe - today and everyday for every single thing that you received!
Thanks for letting me be here!
Terrie Wurzbacher
http://www.facebook.com/l/3dec6;www.GettingUnstuckLLC.com
It's interesting that as I was getting ready to write this guest blog post (I am very grateful to Beth for letting me do this), I looked an email which had this as the lead in:
"What if we assumed that everything the Universe sent to us was "good" for us...even if we didn't see it that way at first?
That would mean that everything that happened during our day was something positive, even if we had a negative reaction or interpreted it as "bad" initially. This new assumption would certainly change our energy quickly, wouldn't it?"
How timely is that - you know there are NO accidents in the universe.
But I digress. The point of my post today (and should be everyday) is that you must incorporate gratitude and an expression of that gratitude in order to receive the best blessings from the universe. Be grateful for everything and I mean everything even if it doesn't appear to be something good for you. The reason for this is that everything is what you declare it to be. If you declare something good, it will be good. If you declare something bad, guess what? It will be bad!
I recommend you journal your "gratitudes" as I call them. And an easy way to do that is to download the free software I created called "The Gratitude Journal" - you can get it at http://www.facebook.com/l/3dec6;www.GratitudeTracker.com .
Now downloading it is not enough by itself. You must use it!!! And you must make that use a routine, daily practice. You can't journal about your gratitude for a few days and then claim that you got nothing in return. That's not the way it works. You must make this a part of your everyday life. Think about it during the day and jot down what you're grateful for (there's a "sticky" in the program that will help those of you who sit at the computer every day).
The universe has to be cared for and you do that by thanking it. Tell the universe how grateful you are for what it's given you. For instance, today I had to go to a doctor's appointment and the parking area at the hospital is always totally full. So, realizing this, I started over the weekend saying that I was so grateful for the close parking space I had. I visualized it and lo and behold today I got a great parking space.
Regardless of the return you get, it's our responsibility to be grateful for all that comes to us. You say thank you to the clerk in a store for doing their job and taking your money. So, why not say thank you to the Universe for all the good it's given to you.
Go get your Gratitude Journal now and begin thanking the Universe - today and everyday for every single thing that you received!
Thanks for letting me be here!
Terrie Wurzbacher
http://www.facebook.com/l/3dec6;www.GettingUnstuckLLC.com
Monday, May 17, 2010
Helping through Hospice
Returning the Favor
My sister Beth is on a well-deserved vacation and invited to me to offer up a few thoughts about making a difference through hospice. Every local hospice depends upon both paid staff and volunteers to fulfill its primary mission – providing comfort and quality of life for patients (and families) with a terminal illness.
Many volunteers have had loved ones under hospice care and became volunteers to simply “return the favor”. Each volunteer is carefully screened and required to attend at least several weeks of training. Becoming a hospice volunteer is an incredible opportunity to make a difference in one’s community.
I’d like to share some of the ways our volunteers help out. We have several men who come and help maintain our building. They can be found hanging light bulbs, putting up pictures, or fixing a broken door frame. Other volunteers help us by stuffing envelopes, doing data entry, filing records, delivering medications, facilitating support groups, baking cookies, driving patients to the doctor, and serving on the Board of Directors.
There are four legged volunteers who put smiles on our patients’ faces and a lovely girl who has been bringing cheer to patients since her pre-school days. Caring volunteers offer comfort through our “bereavement phone line” while others sit with patients while their caregivers take a break. Some decorate patient’s rooms and some read to patients. Singers and musicians offer music and the crafty assist patients in scrap-booking and other craft projects.
“Being there” teams give comfort and support during the last hours of a patient’s life. Volunteers can be found cleaning up the dishes, playing cards, holding a hand, saying a prayer and painting a patient’s fingernails. Dreams have come true as volunteers have pulled off romantic dinners, a Hawaiian Luau, and a baseball game under the lights. One fellow made a huge difference in a patient’s life simply by taking him for coffee every week.
Volunteering for hospice is not only a great way to make a difference in the lives of others - it offers much in return, including personal growth, newfound purpose, friendships, and a richer life.
Guest blogger: Sharon Carson, Chaplain for Wayne County Hospice and Palliative Care, Wooster, Ohio
My sister Beth is on a well-deserved vacation and invited to me to offer up a few thoughts about making a difference through hospice. Every local hospice depends upon both paid staff and volunteers to fulfill its primary mission – providing comfort and quality of life for patients (and families) with a terminal illness.
Many volunteers have had loved ones under hospice care and became volunteers to simply “return the favor”. Each volunteer is carefully screened and required to attend at least several weeks of training. Becoming a hospice volunteer is an incredible opportunity to make a difference in one’s community.
I’d like to share some of the ways our volunteers help out. We have several men who come and help maintain our building. They can be found hanging light bulbs, putting up pictures, or fixing a broken door frame. Other volunteers help us by stuffing envelopes, doing data entry, filing records, delivering medications, facilitating support groups, baking cookies, driving patients to the doctor, and serving on the Board of Directors.
There are four legged volunteers who put smiles on our patients’ faces and a lovely girl who has been bringing cheer to patients since her pre-school days. Caring volunteers offer comfort through our “bereavement phone line” while others sit with patients while their caregivers take a break. Some decorate patient’s rooms and some read to patients. Singers and musicians offer music and the crafty assist patients in scrap-booking and other craft projects.
“Being there” teams give comfort and support during the last hours of a patient’s life. Volunteers can be found cleaning up the dishes, playing cards, holding a hand, saying a prayer and painting a patient’s fingernails. Dreams have come true as volunteers have pulled off romantic dinners, a Hawaiian Luau, and a baseball game under the lights. One fellow made a huge difference in a patient’s life simply by taking him for coffee every week.
Volunteering for hospice is not only a great way to make a difference in the lives of others - it offers much in return, including personal growth, newfound purpose, friendships, and a richer life.
Guest blogger: Sharon Carson, Chaplain for Wayne County Hospice and Palliative Care, Wooster, Ohio
Friday, May 14, 2010
Making a difference locally in the fight against cancer.
Do you know someone who has or is battling cancer? The plain truth is that in our lifetime, most of us will know a friend or a relative who will have to battle this terrible disease. It may even be ourselves. But did you know that there is an easy and fun way to help in the fight?
It’s called Relay for Life and it is an annual fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. This year, my family and I have decided to start a team and do what we can for those whose lives have been affected by cancer.
What is Relay?
The American Cancer Society Relay For Life is a life-changing event that gives everyone in communities across the globe a chance to celebrate the lives of people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against the disease. At our Relay, teams of people camp out at a local high school and take turns walking or running around a track. Each team is asked to have a representative on the track at all times during the event. Because cancer never sleeps, our Relay is an overnight event that is 24 hours in length. Every year we line the track with luminarias honoring those who have survived or remembering those we’ve lost. At 11pm there is a ceremony and a quiet hour where the only light is from the luminarias and you walk the track in silence looking at all the names. It’s an extremely moving experience.
Relay began in 1985 when Dr. Gordy Klatt, a colorectal surgeon in Tacoma, Washington, ran and walked around a track for 24 hours to raise money for the American Cancer Society. Since then, Relay has grown from a single man’s passion to fight cancer into the world’s largest movement to end the disease. Each year, more than 3.5 million people in 5,000 communities in the United States, along with additional communities in 20 other countries, gather to take part in this global phenomenon and raise much-needed funds and awareness to save lives from cancer. Thanks to Relay participants, the American Cancer Society continues to save lives.
Why do I Relay?
The American Cancer Society Relay For Life is more than just an event to me. It is my personal opportunity to help save lives from cancer by supporting the American Cancer Society.
One of my reasons for Relaying is a man I've never met. My Father-In-Law succumbed to lung cancer years before I even met my husband, but based on heartfelt memories of his family, I am deeply saddened by never having a chance to get to know him. I'm also saddened for my children who will have that piece of heritage missing from their lives, only to know a shadow of the man he truly was, told in stories by loving family, but it's not the same as flesh and blood bonding with your grandpa. I would love to see a day where no one else misses out on knowing an incredible person because of cancer.
I also Relay because of stories like this: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/lukejensen I just heard about Luke last Tuesday and a few days later, he lost his battle with cancer. He was 9 years old.
These are just a few stories of how cancer has entered into my life. I've had too many relatives to count who have had cancer and have heard too many more stories like Luke’s and I don't want to add anymore to this awful list. That is why I Relay.
How can you help?
1) Consider volunteering your time. In our local area, we have a Discovery Store (a thrift store where the money raised goes to the American Cancer Society) which is manned by volunteers. There are programs that need people willing to drive cancer patients to their treatments. If you have a friend or family member with cancer find out how you can make their lives a little easier and do it. You can find more ways to volunteer by visiting http://www.cancer.org .
2) Find a Relay near you and start a team. It’s really simple. Go to http://www.relayforlife.org/relay/ and in the upper left hand corner, type in your zip code and click search. After you start a team, start fundraising. We’re having a garage sale, selling handmade goods, collecting our spare change, selling Luminarias, the ideas for fundraising are limitless. Every little bit of money raised helps and the money stays in that Relay’s local area.
3) If you can’t start a team, find a Relay near you and just go to the event. You’ll have fun, meet some great people and all the money raised onsite goes to your local area’s fight against cancer.
4) If you don’t have a Relay near you, or you don’t have the ability to be on a team you can donate online. You can donate to our team: http://main.acsevents.org/goto/Ravens.Rascals or you can find any team in your local area to donate to.
5) Last but most certainly not least, remember this number: 1-800-ACS-2345. For anyone who may have questions about cancer, or who may have just been diagnosed and feels overwhelmed, call this number 24/7 and someone will be there with answers.
Rachel Martorano is a stay-at-home-mom to 4 gorgeous kids. She enjoys reading, doing puzzles, crocheting/knitting and helping others. Her main project at the moment is actually losing weight and getting healthier so she can be at less risk of developing cancer and other obesity related diseases. Her blog is http://80in08journey.blogspot.com/
You can join her on her facebook journey to get healthier at: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=107037375994416
She is also the proud captain of the 2010 Relay for Life team, Raven’s Rascals. To find out more about her team you can go to: http://main.acsevents.org/goto/Ravens.Rascals
It’s called Relay for Life and it is an annual fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. This year, my family and I have decided to start a team and do what we can for those whose lives have been affected by cancer.
What is Relay?
The American Cancer Society Relay For Life is a life-changing event that gives everyone in communities across the globe a chance to celebrate the lives of people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against the disease. At our Relay, teams of people camp out at a local high school and take turns walking or running around a track. Each team is asked to have a representative on the track at all times during the event. Because cancer never sleeps, our Relay is an overnight event that is 24 hours in length. Every year we line the track with luminarias honoring those who have survived or remembering those we’ve lost. At 11pm there is a ceremony and a quiet hour where the only light is from the luminarias and you walk the track in silence looking at all the names. It’s an extremely moving experience.
Relay began in 1985 when Dr. Gordy Klatt, a colorectal surgeon in Tacoma, Washington, ran and walked around a track for 24 hours to raise money for the American Cancer Society. Since then, Relay has grown from a single man’s passion to fight cancer into the world’s largest movement to end the disease. Each year, more than 3.5 million people in 5,000 communities in the United States, along with additional communities in 20 other countries, gather to take part in this global phenomenon and raise much-needed funds and awareness to save lives from cancer. Thanks to Relay participants, the American Cancer Society continues to save lives.
Why do I Relay?
The American Cancer Society Relay For Life is more than just an event to me. It is my personal opportunity to help save lives from cancer by supporting the American Cancer Society.
One of my reasons for Relaying is a man I've never met. My Father-In-Law succumbed to lung cancer years before I even met my husband, but based on heartfelt memories of his family, I am deeply saddened by never having a chance to get to know him. I'm also saddened for my children who will have that piece of heritage missing from their lives, only to know a shadow of the man he truly was, told in stories by loving family, but it's not the same as flesh and blood bonding with your grandpa. I would love to see a day where no one else misses out on knowing an incredible person because of cancer.
I also Relay because of stories like this: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/lukejensen I just heard about Luke last Tuesday and a few days later, he lost his battle with cancer. He was 9 years old.
These are just a few stories of how cancer has entered into my life. I've had too many relatives to count who have had cancer and have heard too many more stories like Luke’s and I don't want to add anymore to this awful list. That is why I Relay.
How can you help?
1) Consider volunteering your time. In our local area, we have a Discovery Store (a thrift store where the money raised goes to the American Cancer Society) which is manned by volunteers. There are programs that need people willing to drive cancer patients to their treatments. If you have a friend or family member with cancer find out how you can make their lives a little easier and do it. You can find more ways to volunteer by visiting http://www.cancer.org .
2) Find a Relay near you and start a team. It’s really simple. Go to http://www.relayforlife.org/relay/ and in the upper left hand corner, type in your zip code and click search. After you start a team, start fundraising. We’re having a garage sale, selling handmade goods, collecting our spare change, selling Luminarias, the ideas for fundraising are limitless. Every little bit of money raised helps and the money stays in that Relay’s local area.
3) If you can’t start a team, find a Relay near you and just go to the event. You’ll have fun, meet some great people and all the money raised onsite goes to your local area’s fight against cancer.
4) If you don’t have a Relay near you, or you don’t have the ability to be on a team you can donate online. You can donate to our team: http://main.acsevents.org/goto/Ravens.Rascals or you can find any team in your local area to donate to.
5) Last but most certainly not least, remember this number: 1-800-ACS-2345. For anyone who may have questions about cancer, or who may have just been diagnosed and feels overwhelmed, call this number 24/7 and someone will be there with answers.
Rachel Martorano is a stay-at-home-mom to 4 gorgeous kids. She enjoys reading, doing puzzles, crocheting/knitting and helping others. Her main project at the moment is actually losing weight and getting healthier so she can be at less risk of developing cancer and other obesity related diseases. Her blog is http://80in08journey.blogspot.com/
You can join her on her facebook journey to get healthier at: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=107037375994416
She is also the proud captain of the 2010 Relay for Life team, Raven’s Rascals. To find out more about her team you can go to: http://main.acsevents.org/goto/Ravens.Rascals
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Make a difference via your business!
This post is focused on people who own a business or are self-employed. Have you ever taken some time specifically to think how your business makes a difference in your local community or the world at large?
First, practicing integrity in all your transactions is a must. If you have employees, you are setting an example for them to follow. They see what your work ethic is, how helpful you are, and sense how much you care about them. Your customers experience this as well.
Offering more value in your products and services than the money you ask for in return is a great way to make a difference through your business. When you do this, you create a strong foundation. Your employees feel good about working for you. Your clients refer your more often, and may become life-long customers.
Take the time to get to know and build relationships with everyone who comes into contact with you through your business. This includes vendors, joint venture partners, and others you may not have considered before.
Another great idea is to take a certain percentage of your profits and donate them to a good cause. More companies, both large and small, are practicing charitable giving. You can also sponsor athletes, sports teams, schools, or community events.
Ask yourself, are you doing these types of things to generate publicity for your business, or because you truly care and want to make a difference. In my case, I would have to answer both. Earning profits is what pays for expenses and the extras that make life worthwhile. My main priority though, is to help others. I specifically started my own business to do that in multiple ways. My desire is to help people and businesses thrive through my coaching and consulting work. I love life and want everyone around me to experience that joy for themselves!
This blog is one way I am trying to make a difference in my personal life, with no expectation of monetary return. I feel strongly that this is the purpose I was put on this earth to do right now- make my unique difference in the world and the lives of people, so it has become a part of my entire way of living.
In your business itself, you can use less paper, recycle printer-ink cartridges, and other "green" practices to help the environment. Having plants to help clean the air, using energy-efficient appliances and technology, and many other things can be done to make a difference for everyone who enters your business space. Listen to suggestions from those who have a relationship with your business for any reason- even if it's via the phone or computer. You'll receive some real gems of ideas from them!
First, practicing integrity in all your transactions is a must. If you have employees, you are setting an example for them to follow. They see what your work ethic is, how helpful you are, and sense how much you care about them. Your customers experience this as well.
Offering more value in your products and services than the money you ask for in return is a great way to make a difference through your business. When you do this, you create a strong foundation. Your employees feel good about working for you. Your clients refer your more often, and may become life-long customers.
Take the time to get to know and build relationships with everyone who comes into contact with you through your business. This includes vendors, joint venture partners, and others you may not have considered before.
Another great idea is to take a certain percentage of your profits and donate them to a good cause. More companies, both large and small, are practicing charitable giving. You can also sponsor athletes, sports teams, schools, or community events.
Ask yourself, are you doing these types of things to generate publicity for your business, or because you truly care and want to make a difference. In my case, I would have to answer both. Earning profits is what pays for expenses and the extras that make life worthwhile. My main priority though, is to help others. I specifically started my own business to do that in multiple ways. My desire is to help people and businesses thrive through my coaching and consulting work. I love life and want everyone around me to experience that joy for themselves!
This blog is one way I am trying to make a difference in my personal life, with no expectation of monetary return. I feel strongly that this is the purpose I was put on this earth to do right now- make my unique difference in the world and the lives of people, so it has become a part of my entire way of living.
In your business itself, you can use less paper, recycle printer-ink cartridges, and other "green" practices to help the environment. Having plants to help clean the air, using energy-efficient appliances and technology, and many other things can be done to make a difference for everyone who enters your business space. Listen to suggestions from those who have a relationship with your business for any reason- even if it's via the phone or computer. You'll receive some real gems of ideas from them!
About Libraries
There are all types of libraries. Public libraries are probably the ones most well-known and familiar to many of us. In the United States, Andrew Carnegie's foundation is credited with funding almost 1700 public libraries to be built from 1900-1917. He was insistent that local communities should support these once they were built, and do this through their local tax system. Today there is a public library in almost every local community.
There are also special libraries for the research of such subjects as science and medicine, the Library of Congress, the Presidential Libraries, and those located in schools and colleges. In Salt Lake City, Utah, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints has a geneological library to help people trace their ancestry. It's the largest of it's kind in the entire world! Other countries have wonderful libraries with much to offer too.
Some of you may even have your own home library or at least a bookcase or shelf full of books. Today it's possible to store entire books on your computer or on a Kindle or Nook hand-held reading appliance. Those ways are new kinds of space savers for those who are avid readers. (I personally love the feel, smell, and look of an actual book though.) Books are available in Braille for those who are blind and there are books available to listen to and just let someone else do the reading for you. Those are excellent for those who like to listen while traveling in their car. I recommend them for children who learn better by that method, so they can retain information more easily.
Books are important. Sadly, not everyone takes time to read. Reading has made an absolutely huge difference in my life. Whether for relaxation, entertainment, for business, or to learn something, books fill a need. Libraries supply a larger selection of books than you would want to buy and care for. They store them for you, loan them free, and will even special order books for you that they don't carry through a special agreement with other libraries.
In addition to books, you can also borrow such things as movies and music. Most offer a reading room with current magazines available to peruse. Libraries host events,classes,book clubs, and even displays of art and collections. They have encyclopedias, reference books, and historical records and information as well.
Libraries are a great way to save money. You can donate books or money to buy books. You can buy used books at either their little shop right inside the library itself, or an annual books sale to help the library. Many libraries have groups that specifically help the library in some capacity.
You can read to your own children and grandchildren, and help them learn to read. That quickly becomes a favorite time for all, as you bond via the time spent reading a good book together.
Spend time at your local library, and be sure to thank the librarians and those who shelve books.
Reading makes a difference. So do libraries and librarians!
How has reading or the library made a difference for you? What books are your favorites?
Please feel free to share.
There are also special libraries for the research of such subjects as science and medicine, the Library of Congress, the Presidential Libraries, and those located in schools and colleges. In Salt Lake City, Utah, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints has a geneological library to help people trace their ancestry. It's the largest of it's kind in the entire world! Other countries have wonderful libraries with much to offer too.
Some of you may even have your own home library or at least a bookcase or shelf full of books. Today it's possible to store entire books on your computer or on a Kindle or Nook hand-held reading appliance. Those ways are new kinds of space savers for those who are avid readers. (I personally love the feel, smell, and look of an actual book though.) Books are available in Braille for those who are blind and there are books available to listen to and just let someone else do the reading for you. Those are excellent for those who like to listen while traveling in their car. I recommend them for children who learn better by that method, so they can retain information more easily.
Books are important. Sadly, not everyone takes time to read. Reading has made an absolutely huge difference in my life. Whether for relaxation, entertainment, for business, or to learn something, books fill a need. Libraries supply a larger selection of books than you would want to buy and care for. They store them for you, loan them free, and will even special order books for you that they don't carry through a special agreement with other libraries.
In addition to books, you can also borrow such things as movies and music. Most offer a reading room with current magazines available to peruse. Libraries host events,classes,book clubs, and even displays of art and collections. They have encyclopedias, reference books, and historical records and information as well.
Libraries are a great way to save money. You can donate books or money to buy books. You can buy used books at either their little shop right inside the library itself, or an annual books sale to help the library. Many libraries have groups that specifically help the library in some capacity.
You can read to your own children and grandchildren, and help them learn to read. That quickly becomes a favorite time for all, as you bond via the time spent reading a good book together.
Spend time at your local library, and be sure to thank the librarians and those who shelve books.
Reading makes a difference. So do libraries and librarians!
How has reading or the library made a difference for you? What books are your favorites?
Please feel free to share.
Babies,bottles, and bibs!
There is a special place in my heart for newborns and small children. Every time I would hold my own children or grandchildren in my arms when they were babies I would fall in love with them all over again. Their innocence, pure smile, and curious eyes always won me over.
Knowing that they are the future leaders in our world, we should help all babies, children, and their parents. It actually starts before birth. Good prenatal care for pregnant women is a must to have a healthy pregnancy. Being able to afford that and healthy food is essential. This is one way someone could help, either through financial donations or donating services or food. Fathers during this time often get left out and so can be a little jealous. Paying a little extra special attention to them can be a big help.
Those husbands could give their wives a back massage once in a while too. I know first-hand how much that would be appreciated as the tummy gets big, and the back starts to ache. Giving her a scented foot soak and foot massage would be a nice extra touch for swollen feet! The pampering you show her now will come back to you later on. This is great for your relationship.
Hosting a baby shower to have a fun get-together with the mother's friends and relatives before she gets busy with the new baby is very thoughtful. Find out ahead what things she could really use for the baby and you could even set up a register at a store such as Target listing her preferences. That's where the bottles and bibs enter the title of this post on babies .
There are teenage mothers who do not have support but who want to keep their babies. There are some places who helps these young women. If you have one near you, perhaps you could volunteer there or at least pass the information out to someone who could make use of that. You could also babysit so a new mother could have a break. I know I've mentioned it before, but that's where sharing meals would come in handy- when the mother comes home from the hospital and is too exhausted to cook.
Hospitals often have babies who don't have any caring parent to love them. Sometimes the babies have parents who were heavy drug users and simply unable to care for them. Many hospitals appreciate volunteers to rock and feed newborns and offer them love so they get a good start in life. This is so crucial in an infant's development!
A small percentage of adults feel the call to adopt. What a wonderful gift of yourself to parent a child of any age who needs one! Please be supportive of adoptive parents you know. They have some extra challenges that a biological parent does not, including the costs of adopting.
You can also create bibs and baby clothes, and put together gift baskets with such things as diapers, baby powder, wipes, little scissors, and other things any mother and father would appreciate. Add a surprise for the mom and dad.
Changing diapers isn't on the list of the most fun chores to do. It is a necessity though. Parents should take turns helping with the baby in every way. This includes bathing,dressing, and feeding the baby, taking him or her to doctor appointments, and taking turns staying up with the baby at night. Try to realize that as new parents you will be tense because this is all new to you, and you are sleep-deprived most likely too. That part will pass. Focus instead of your wonderful new family you've created, and your wee bundle of joy.
If you know someone who has a baby or young child, offer to be there for them when they need advice. Let them know you won't force it on them, but will be glad to share your experience at their request.
Let's help other people starting with our babies. They are a precious gift to humanity!
Knowing that they are the future leaders in our world, we should help all babies, children, and their parents. It actually starts before birth. Good prenatal care for pregnant women is a must to have a healthy pregnancy. Being able to afford that and healthy food is essential. This is one way someone could help, either through financial donations or donating services or food. Fathers during this time often get left out and so can be a little jealous. Paying a little extra special attention to them can be a big help.
Those husbands could give their wives a back massage once in a while too. I know first-hand how much that would be appreciated as the tummy gets big, and the back starts to ache. Giving her a scented foot soak and foot massage would be a nice extra touch for swollen feet! The pampering you show her now will come back to you later on. This is great for your relationship.
Hosting a baby shower to have a fun get-together with the mother's friends and relatives before she gets busy with the new baby is very thoughtful. Find out ahead what things she could really use for the baby and you could even set up a register at a store such as Target listing her preferences. That's where the bottles and bibs enter the title of this post on babies .
There are teenage mothers who do not have support but who want to keep their babies. There are some places who helps these young women. If you have one near you, perhaps you could volunteer there or at least pass the information out to someone who could make use of that. You could also babysit so a new mother could have a break. I know I've mentioned it before, but that's where sharing meals would come in handy- when the mother comes home from the hospital and is too exhausted to cook.
Hospitals often have babies who don't have any caring parent to love them. Sometimes the babies have parents who were heavy drug users and simply unable to care for them. Many hospitals appreciate volunteers to rock and feed newborns and offer them love so they get a good start in life. This is so crucial in an infant's development!
A small percentage of adults feel the call to adopt. What a wonderful gift of yourself to parent a child of any age who needs one! Please be supportive of adoptive parents you know. They have some extra challenges that a biological parent does not, including the costs of adopting.
You can also create bibs and baby clothes, and put together gift baskets with such things as diapers, baby powder, wipes, little scissors, and other things any mother and father would appreciate. Add a surprise for the mom and dad.
Changing diapers isn't on the list of the most fun chores to do. It is a necessity though. Parents should take turns helping with the baby in every way. This includes bathing,dressing, and feeding the baby, taking him or her to doctor appointments, and taking turns staying up with the baby at night. Try to realize that as new parents you will be tense because this is all new to you, and you are sleep-deprived most likely too. That part will pass. Focus instead of your wonderful new family you've created, and your wee bundle of joy.
If you know someone who has a baby or young child, offer to be there for them when they need advice. Let them know you won't force it on them, but will be glad to share your experience at their request.
Let's help other people starting with our babies. They are a precious gift to humanity!
Save and Share
One of the things I have done most of my life is try to find the best buys wherever I shop, whether that's at a yard sale or retail store. If it's the grocery store I watch for sales, reductions, and use both the store's value card as well as both store and manufacturers' coupons when I can. Quality of items is important to me, but if things are fairly equal I'll be buying the least expensive one. It's now what I consider to be a positive habit of mine.
Many shoppers create a price books using the information from their local stores to write down the item and price at each store. That way you don't have to remember it all in your head. It really doesn't take that long to establish, and you would just take that along with your coupon holder along to the store. By signing up for each store's savings card, you will get other coupons and offers as well.
There are coupons for almost everything you purchase, even on essentials like produce. There are coupons for services as well as products. You can find coupons on packaging, in magazines, Sunday inserts, online to print off, and elsewhere as well. There are coupon clubs, and sites online. One that I use is called Coupon Mom.
Quick tip: Find the coupon holder and price book that you really love feel good about looking at and using. That way you will be sure to remember to take it with you. Put your contact information inside so the store can contact you if you lose it.
When you need an item, you just look it up in your price book to see if it's a good deal or not that day. You'll most likely end up trying to buy extra of items you can store when they are at their lowest price, and trying to skip buying them the week they cost more. If you have an extra storage freezer, particularly an Energy Star energy-efficient appliance, this strategy can save you lots of money. This means you could freeze things such as fruit while the prices are low.
You could also try once a month cooking if you have extra freezer space. That's where you plan to spend one long cooking session per month to cook that month's meals, or at least several at a time., and then refreeze them. There are several books out on the topic with easy recipes and instructions. This will actually save you both money and lots of time. You will always have a meal to share if surprise guests arrive or someone who would appreciate one.
Shopping online is something I have had wonderful experiences with. There are coupon codes available for may online sites. Free or low-cost shipping offers abound, especially around Christmas. I've already mentioned how wonderful I think the Greater Good Network shops online are. Today, those people on their email list have a coupon code to get 25% off everything and next day shipping for only $10 with a $50 order.
You might wonder what this topic has to do with making a difference. Actually, several things.
1.First, you will make a difference in your own budget. That could help you work towards debt freedom or provide with money to follow a dream you have.
2. It could provide you with the money to buy more organic healthier food. That might keep you healthier and lower your medical bills
3.You could buy extra for the food pantries in your local area when you find a great sale at little or no cost to you.
4. You could put the savings into an investment account and have it grow for you retirement, Christmas, or vacation account.
5.You could donate the money you save to a charity or cause of your choosing. It's money you used to spend anyway.
Many shoppers create a price books using the information from their local stores to write down the item and price at each store. That way you don't have to remember it all in your head. It really doesn't take that long to establish, and you would just take that along with your coupon holder along to the store. By signing up for each store's savings card, you will get other coupons and offers as well.
There are coupons for almost everything you purchase, even on essentials like produce. There are coupons for services as well as products. You can find coupons on packaging, in magazines, Sunday inserts, online to print off, and elsewhere as well. There are coupon clubs, and sites online. One that I use is called Coupon Mom.
Quick tip: Find the coupon holder and price book that you really love feel good about looking at and using. That way you will be sure to remember to take it with you. Put your contact information inside so the store can contact you if you lose it.
When you need an item, you just look it up in your price book to see if it's a good deal or not that day. You'll most likely end up trying to buy extra of items you can store when they are at their lowest price, and trying to skip buying them the week they cost more. If you have an extra storage freezer, particularly an Energy Star energy-efficient appliance, this strategy can save you lots of money. This means you could freeze things such as fruit while the prices are low.
You could also try once a month cooking if you have extra freezer space. That's where you plan to spend one long cooking session per month to cook that month's meals, or at least several at a time., and then refreeze them. There are several books out on the topic with easy recipes and instructions. This will actually save you both money and lots of time. You will always have a meal to share if surprise guests arrive or someone who would appreciate one.
Shopping online is something I have had wonderful experiences with. There are coupon codes available for may online sites. Free or low-cost shipping offers abound, especially around Christmas. I've already mentioned how wonderful I think the Greater Good Network shops online are. Today, those people on their email list have a coupon code to get 25% off everything and next day shipping for only $10 with a $50 order.
You might wonder what this topic has to do with making a difference. Actually, several things.
1.First, you will make a difference in your own budget. That could help you work towards debt freedom or provide with money to follow a dream you have.
2. It could provide you with the money to buy more organic healthier food. That might keep you healthier and lower your medical bills
3.You could buy extra for the food pantries in your local area when you find a great sale at little or no cost to you.
4. You could put the savings into an investment account and have it grow for you retirement, Christmas, or vacation account.
5.You could donate the money you save to a charity or cause of your choosing. It's money you used to spend anyway.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Hobbies Help!
Do you have some kind of hobby that you enjoy that could help others? Many people have spare-time activities that do!
Those who work with their hands doing woodworking could make extra birdhouses, furniture, or other things to give away to those who would appreciate and use them.
If you sew,knit, or crochet your skills could be used to help charities who distribute things such as baby items, hats, mittens, and scarves to those who cannot afford them. You could even sew curtains, clothes, or pillows to help someone in need. You could also sell your items and donate a portion of the proceeds to a cause you feel good about.
This doesn't mean you shouldn't make things for yourself and your family and friends. These are just ideas on how you might decide you want to spend part of your hobby time to make a difference so you receive even more fulfillment from your hobby.
There are thousands of hobbies, so I'll just mention a few today. Whether you do arts and crafts, music, electronics, baking, or have some other hobby you truly love spending time doing, there is probably a way for you to help others with it.
Rubber-stampers could create cards to mail out, those who show dogs could take their pets to a nursing home if given permission, or to visit a shut-in who would delight in being able to spend time with your award-winning pet. If you collect something, just showing it to others might bring some beauty or fun into someone's life.
Helping doesn't always have to mean with the basics- food, clothing, and shelter. It can be teaching a new skill, sharing knowledge, pointing out beauty, bolstering someone's spirits, helping with a chore, being thoughtful, lending a listening ear and a shoulder to cry on, giving a hug, and anything else that brings positivity into someone's life.
If you don't have a hobby now, maybe you would like to start one. They can be relaxing, fun, challenging, good therapy, and much more. That could even make a difference in your own life!
Those who work with their hands doing woodworking could make extra birdhouses, furniture, or other things to give away to those who would appreciate and use them.
If you sew,knit, or crochet your skills could be used to help charities who distribute things such as baby items, hats, mittens, and scarves to those who cannot afford them. You could even sew curtains, clothes, or pillows to help someone in need. You could also sell your items and donate a portion of the proceeds to a cause you feel good about.
This doesn't mean you shouldn't make things for yourself and your family and friends. These are just ideas on how you might decide you want to spend part of your hobby time to make a difference so you receive even more fulfillment from your hobby.
There are thousands of hobbies, so I'll just mention a few today. Whether you do arts and crafts, music, electronics, baking, or have some other hobby you truly love spending time doing, there is probably a way for you to help others with it.
Rubber-stampers could create cards to mail out, those who show dogs could take their pets to a nursing home if given permission, or to visit a shut-in who would delight in being able to spend time with your award-winning pet. If you collect something, just showing it to others might bring some beauty or fun into someone's life.
Helping doesn't always have to mean with the basics- food, clothing, and shelter. It can be teaching a new skill, sharing knowledge, pointing out beauty, bolstering someone's spirits, helping with a chore, being thoughtful, lending a listening ear and a shoulder to cry on, giving a hug, and anything else that brings positivity into someone's life.
If you don't have a hobby now, maybe you would like to start one. They can be relaxing, fun, challenging, good therapy, and much more. That could even make a difference in your own life!
Happy Cinco de Mayo!
Wikipedia says, in part,that "Cinco de Mayo (Spanish for "fifth of May") is a voluntarily observed holiday that commemorates the Mexican army's unlikely victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862."
Immediately upon reading that, thoughts of other unlikely events where people experienced some kind of triumph came to my mind. Where something extraordinary happened instead of what would be considered likely under the circumstances.
The Jewish celebration of Hanukkah, Festival of Lights, commemorates the miracle of consecrated olive oil burning for eight days in the eternal flame of the Temple, when there was only enough of the oil to last one.
The Bible tells stories of how Jesus was able to feed thousands of people with just a few fish and loaves of bread. There were even baskets of leftovers! The account tells that it was a boy in this large crowd who provided the five loaves and two fishes. What a fabulous role he played!
When challenges the world faces today seem impossible, we need to remember that each of us do make a significant difference.
"Johnny Appleseed" planted apple trees and made his difference.
Helen Keller made a real difference, most likely because of the challenges she faced becoming deaf and blind when she was only 19 months old. I'm sure we can all think of many famous people, as well as non-famous people, that we know who do something that really helps the world in some way.
Whether it's cleaning up the planet, planting trees that will outlast your lifetime, trying to play your part in bringing about world peace, earning lots of money so you can give it away to where it's needed, or any other way that will benefit others somehow, please do get started now. The world needs you. Every individual needs to play their role. You may feel like an "underdog" but I assure you are not. You have a powerful impact on the entire world, and for future generations to come!
Immediately upon reading that, thoughts of other unlikely events where people experienced some kind of triumph came to my mind. Where something extraordinary happened instead of what would be considered likely under the circumstances.
The Jewish celebration of Hanukkah, Festival of Lights, commemorates the miracle of consecrated olive oil burning for eight days in the eternal flame of the Temple, when there was only enough of the oil to last one.
The Bible tells stories of how Jesus was able to feed thousands of people with just a few fish and loaves of bread. There were even baskets of leftovers! The account tells that it was a boy in this large crowd who provided the five loaves and two fishes. What a fabulous role he played!
When challenges the world faces today seem impossible, we need to remember that each of us do make a significant difference.
"Johnny Appleseed" planted apple trees and made his difference.
Helen Keller made a real difference, most likely because of the challenges she faced becoming deaf and blind when she was only 19 months old. I'm sure we can all think of many famous people, as well as non-famous people, that we know who do something that really helps the world in some way.
Whether it's cleaning up the planet, planting trees that will outlast your lifetime, trying to play your part in bringing about world peace, earning lots of money so you can give it away to where it's needed, or any other way that will benefit others somehow, please do get started now. The world needs you. Every individual needs to play their role. You may feel like an "underdog" but I assure you are not. You have a powerful impact on the entire world, and for future generations to come!
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Teachers make a difference!
Today is National Teacher's Day.
Did you have a favorite teacher?
If you did, maybe it was because of the way they made learning easier, fun, or interesting. Or maybe it was the special way they encouraged you or made the time to show a personal interest in you. Take a moment to reflect back to your own teachers, mentors, professors, and coaches you've had in your life and figure out what it was that made some stand out for you personally. It's valuable information that you can use in your own life.
Not too long ago I read a true story written by a retired teacher. She had received a letter in the mail from one of her former students. It was something like 40 years later, and he had taken the time to do a search to see where she lived and write her. The letter overflowed with his heart-felt thanks and explained in detail how her teaching had changed his entire life for the better. He was sorry he had not told her sooner, and mentioned that.
What "got to me" most about the article though, was not how happy and fulfilled this teacher was to read this most welcome letter. It was her remark than in all the years she had taught, this was the first letter of acknowledgment she had ever received!
Please help me change this so more teachers do get to hear from their students what an amazing impact they have. If there is someone who taught you in any capacity that made a difference in your life, please take time today to reach out and let them know somehow that you appreciated their efforts on your behalf. Try to be specific on what they did that had such a profound effect on your life. If you have several people you can thank for instructing you, please do!
If you have children who are in school please talk with them about what this day means, and ask them how their teacher helps them. If the response is positive, encourage them to thank their teacher and maybe take a little present in to school this week to demonstrate that.
Parents who home school or help their children with their studies, music teachers, driving instructors,and anyone else who helps in the learning process are all teachers too. Let's all start acknowledging these highly important people by letting them know how much what they do is appreciated. We are all both teachers and students in some way.
Did you have a favorite teacher?
If you did, maybe it was because of the way they made learning easier, fun, or interesting. Or maybe it was the special way they encouraged you or made the time to show a personal interest in you. Take a moment to reflect back to your own teachers, mentors, professors, and coaches you've had in your life and figure out what it was that made some stand out for you personally. It's valuable information that you can use in your own life.
Not too long ago I read a true story written by a retired teacher. She had received a letter in the mail from one of her former students. It was something like 40 years later, and he had taken the time to do a search to see where she lived and write her. The letter overflowed with his heart-felt thanks and explained in detail how her teaching had changed his entire life for the better. He was sorry he had not told her sooner, and mentioned that.
What "got to me" most about the article though, was not how happy and fulfilled this teacher was to read this most welcome letter. It was her remark than in all the years she had taught, this was the first letter of acknowledgment she had ever received!
Please help me change this so more teachers do get to hear from their students what an amazing impact they have. If there is someone who taught you in any capacity that made a difference in your life, please take time today to reach out and let them know somehow that you appreciated their efforts on your behalf. Try to be specific on what they did that had such a profound effect on your life. If you have several people you can thank for instructing you, please do!
If you have children who are in school please talk with them about what this day means, and ask them how their teacher helps them. If the response is positive, encourage them to thank their teacher and maybe take a little present in to school this week to demonstrate that.
Parents who home school or help their children with their studies, music teachers, driving instructors,and anyone else who helps in the learning process are all teachers too. Let's all start acknowledging these highly important people by letting them know how much what they do is appreciated. We are all both teachers and students in some way.
Monday, May 3, 2010
Make a difference on vacation?
I'm really excited about going on vacation this Friday. In thinking about that, I pondered how I could help make a difference during our trip. Here are the ideas I came up with so far:
1. Smile a lot.
2. Give honest compliments to those I encounter along the way- service stations,restaurants,stores,motels. Thank them as well for helping me.
3.Exude love to my relatives and friends we visit. Offer to help them in the kitchen. Take some of them out to eat, my treat. Be appreciative and do my best to be uplifting to all. Encourage any who are having struggles and help out in any way I can with their circumstances.
4. Realize that I am an example to all I encounter and make sure I continue to live my values.
5. Continue to have posts put up on this blog even though I'm away.
6. We are taking one of our sons on vacation with us, and then moving our son back here to live in our town. We will be loading up a Uhaul trailer with his things, and paying for that and him to go along with us to visit everyone. We also are taking him to see the rain forest, something he has
really wanted to be able to do.
7.Family is so important to me! I will be seeing 20+ relatives and friends in the three weeks. I'll give lots of hugs and kisses out and will adore holding my grandchildren on my lap and experiencing their youthful spirits once again.
I'm grateful that things are working out so well for me to be able to do this right now. Seeing all these loved ones and being in nature will help me relax,rest,refresh, and restore my being. When I get back I'll have "new and improved" energy to get back to my more normal schedule. Taking time for self-care and renewal is something essential for those who want to make a difference.
Help yourself first and then you have more resources available to help others.
Have you ever done anything interesting to help others while on a vacation? Please share!
1. Smile a lot.
2. Give honest compliments to those I encounter along the way- service stations,restaurants,stores,motels. Thank them as well for helping me.
3.Exude love to my relatives and friends we visit. Offer to help them in the kitchen. Take some of them out to eat, my treat. Be appreciative and do my best to be uplifting to all. Encourage any who are having struggles and help out in any way I can with their circumstances.
4. Realize that I am an example to all I encounter and make sure I continue to live my values.
5. Continue to have posts put up on this blog even though I'm away.
6. We are taking one of our sons on vacation with us, and then moving our son back here to live in our town. We will be loading up a Uhaul trailer with his things, and paying for that and him to go along with us to visit everyone. We also are taking him to see the rain forest, something he has
really wanted to be able to do.
7.Family is so important to me! I will be seeing 20+ relatives and friends in the three weeks. I'll give lots of hugs and kisses out and will adore holding my grandchildren on my lap and experiencing their youthful spirits once again.
I'm grateful that things are working out so well for me to be able to do this right now. Seeing all these loved ones and being in nature will help me relax,rest,refresh, and restore my being. When I get back I'll have "new and improved" energy to get back to my more normal schedule. Taking time for self-care and renewal is something essential for those who want to make a difference.
Help yourself first and then you have more resources available to help others.
Have you ever done anything interesting to help others while on a vacation? Please share!
Sunday, May 2, 2010
How to find the time to make a difference!
Several people have asked me how I find the time to volunteer in addition to everything else I do all week. Others have told me that they would like to help, but don't have the time. This post is a response to these type of questions.
In almost every job or career you can make a difference through your work. This also goes for stay at home moms and dads as well as homemakers. Being pleasant to those around you, doing quality work in a timely fashion, and "going the extra mile" when you can, are just a few ways to make a difference in this area of your life.
For me personally, it was just deciding that I needed to incorporate making my difference into my daily life and all that I do. It's part of my lifestyle now.
That means that in my business I practice integrity, act in the clients best interest, and add more value than what the customer pays for. At home, I do my best to create a nourishing environment, have a pleasant attitude, offer support and a listening ear, and be as thoughtful as possible. My husband does the same for me. He does things like scrape the snow off the car and warm it up for me, carry the heavier groceries in, and many more things that I am so thankful for!
Another thing that so far is helpful for me is to only volunteer for one committee or cause at a time. That way, the particular group I'm helping, gets my full attention. If I were to volunteer for several groups, I wouldn't be very effective. I'd feel overwhelmed and resentful.
When shopping for gifts I shop sites like the Greater Good Network Shops online when I can so I can help others at the same time and have a quality gift too.
Before Christmas every year, I carry dollar bills with me when going grocery and other shopping so that every Salvation Army kettle I pass I drop at least one in. I'm also tipping waiters and waitresses a little extra now.
You'll be able to think of things on your own as you go about your daily life too once you make a commitment to make it your way of life instead of just a planned only activity.
When you decide you are going to make a difference, many opportunities will appear. You may wonder why you never noticed them all before! Trust your instincts as to which ones feel right to you. Say no without guilt to any you have doubts about. I assure you that you will find the time to do the things in life that are important to you!
In almost every job or career you can make a difference through your work. This also goes for stay at home moms and dads as well as homemakers. Being pleasant to those around you, doing quality work in a timely fashion, and "going the extra mile" when you can, are just a few ways to make a difference in this area of your life.
For me personally, it was just deciding that I needed to incorporate making my difference into my daily life and all that I do. It's part of my lifestyle now.
That means that in my business I practice integrity, act in the clients best interest, and add more value than what the customer pays for. At home, I do my best to create a nourishing environment, have a pleasant attitude, offer support and a listening ear, and be as thoughtful as possible. My husband does the same for me. He does things like scrape the snow off the car and warm it up for me, carry the heavier groceries in, and many more things that I am so thankful for!
Another thing that so far is helpful for me is to only volunteer for one committee or cause at a time. That way, the particular group I'm helping, gets my full attention. If I were to volunteer for several groups, I wouldn't be very effective. I'd feel overwhelmed and resentful.
When shopping for gifts I shop sites like the Greater Good Network Shops online when I can so I can help others at the same time and have a quality gift too.
Before Christmas every year, I carry dollar bills with me when going grocery and other shopping so that every Salvation Army kettle I pass I drop at least one in. I'm also tipping waiters and waitresses a little extra now.
You'll be able to think of things on your own as you go about your daily life too once you make a commitment to make it your way of life instead of just a planned only activity.
When you decide you are going to make a difference, many opportunities will appear. You may wonder why you never noticed them all before! Trust your instincts as to which ones feel right to you. Say no without guilt to any you have doubts about. I assure you that you will find the time to do the things in life that are important to you!
May snow, Summer thoughts!
It's snowing again here in Colorado. By May I get a bit tired of it, so decided to write a post about summer, my favorite time of year.
There are many things anyone can do in the summertime to make a real difference.
Planting a garden and sharing the produce or flowers is one possibility. You could even can some fruits and vegetables to share later on as well if you know how. Helping someone weed their garden would be a most appreciated act of kindness. Teaching youngsters, and others who would like to know how to garden would be quite special to the recipient.
There are many sports played in the summer. Teams need players, referees, umpires,coaches, and people to supply water,towels, and awards. Donations of money or helpful things such as sports drinks or uniforms is always needed. Just ask what the team you would like to help needs most.
Pools and beaches all need lifeguards. Community Centers, Vacation Bible Schools, and others who have summer programs could really use your help. Students need tutoring in all different subjects, and music lessons to someone who couldn't otherwise afford it would be so rewarding.
How about having a yard sale and then donating what's leftover to a charity? What about hosting a block party or neighborhood bbq or potluck? That could be a lot of fun for all! Helping build a parade float or a neighbor to build a deck, or even helping to build a trail in your local area could be a part of your physical fitness program this year.
If you have young children, maybe you could find other mothers and fathers locally who would be willing to all take turns watching the kids to give each other a break while the kids are out of school.
Taking children on field trips to places such as local parks, playgrounds, or somewhere else on a special outing is a wonderful idea. Being a nature lover, I would probably take them hiking on an easier trail or to a place they could watch birds and wildlife. Playing old-fashioned games like croquet and horseshoes is another winning idea. These ideas make a difference because they show children that there is so much more to life than just television, movies, and video games. Plus, it can help them be fit. If you use the ideas about gardening above also, it may encourage them to eat more fruits and vegetables too.
Encourage teenagers to volunteer, get more exercise, and have lots of fun outdoors in the summer too. This is often a difficult time in their life for them. Add being out of school to that and some teens get bored or in trouble. In talking with teens, those who had enjoyable summer jobs, interesting vacations, or something like marching band practices to attend seemed to keep out of trouble and do better later on in life.
There are many things anyone can do in the summertime to make a real difference.
Planting a garden and sharing the produce or flowers is one possibility. You could even can some fruits and vegetables to share later on as well if you know how. Helping someone weed their garden would be a most appreciated act of kindness. Teaching youngsters, and others who would like to know how to garden would be quite special to the recipient.
There are many sports played in the summer. Teams need players, referees, umpires,coaches, and people to supply water,towels, and awards. Donations of money or helpful things such as sports drinks or uniforms is always needed. Just ask what the team you would like to help needs most.
Pools and beaches all need lifeguards. Community Centers, Vacation Bible Schools, and others who have summer programs could really use your help. Students need tutoring in all different subjects, and music lessons to someone who couldn't otherwise afford it would be so rewarding.
How about having a yard sale and then donating what's leftover to a charity? What about hosting a block party or neighborhood bbq or potluck? That could be a lot of fun for all! Helping build a parade float or a neighbor to build a deck, or even helping to build a trail in your local area could be a part of your physical fitness program this year.
If you have young children, maybe you could find other mothers and fathers locally who would be willing to all take turns watching the kids to give each other a break while the kids are out of school.
Taking children on field trips to places such as local parks, playgrounds, or somewhere else on a special outing is a wonderful idea. Being a nature lover, I would probably take them hiking on an easier trail or to a place they could watch birds and wildlife. Playing old-fashioned games like croquet and horseshoes is another winning idea. These ideas make a difference because they show children that there is so much more to life than just television, movies, and video games. Plus, it can help them be fit. If you use the ideas about gardening above also, it may encourage them to eat more fruits and vegetables too.
Encourage teenagers to volunteer, get more exercise, and have lots of fun outdoors in the summer too. This is often a difficult time in their life for them. Add being out of school to that and some teens get bored or in trouble. In talking with teens, those who had enjoyable summer jobs, interesting vacations, or something like marching band practices to attend seemed to keep out of trouble and do better later on in life.
Update
Since I first started writing this blog I have been emailing a personal thank you note to everyone who has become a follower so far. Yesterday I got a new follower and couldn't figure out who the new person to thank was, so I'm saying that here. Every single person who reads my blog is important. Although I liked recognizing everyone who clicked on the follow button individually, it's not a realistic practice for me to keep up with so I will no longer be doing that. Today I want to acknowledge all of you for being interested in making your difference in the world and reading my ideas. Together we can truly change the world!
In May I will be on vacation for 3 weeks. I already have someone taking care of our home and cats while we are away. I tell you this, because once the 30 day challenges is over and I'm on the road traveling, I won't be able to blog much, if at all. For that reason I have begun asking people to be guest bloggers. I already have a few lined up but could use more.
If you have a cause or topic that you are knowledgeable and passionate about and would like to participate, please let me know either in the comments section below or in email. This is a non-commercial blog so the posts musts be about the topic you select. In exchange for you doing this to help me , I would also like to help you in return. At the bottom of your post I will put up a little blurb that says your name, what your business or cause is about or just about you, and your contact information, whatever you would like showing. That helps you promote something in return.
Anyone who is interested will have to mail me their post and the information to place below the post to acknowledge you as a guest blogger. I will put the posts on the blog after looking them over to check content, spelling,etc . (I bought my first laptop, and one of the reasons was so I could take it with me and keep up with this blog since it's so important to me to not lose momentum.)
It would be so great if some of you would agree to help me in this way. It will be refreshing to the readers to have some new perspectives and ideas, give me a short break, and allow me to recharge my batteries and think up new posts to share upon my return. I'm going to Oregon and Washington so will be visiting a rain forest, possibly two if we get to the Redwoods again, and the ocean as well as relatives and friends. Nature inspires me and has a special effect on my body and soul.
Thank you for considering this. If you know of anyone else who might be interested, please let them know of this opportunity to guest blog as well. Non-profit organizations and companies who are doing something wonderful can be listed in the post itself. Just no solicitations of your personal business due to the purpose of the blog. Please do share personal experiences, about people who have inspired you and what they have done, ideas and topics to make a difference in the world in any way, and quality resources.
In May I will be on vacation for 3 weeks. I already have someone taking care of our home and cats while we are away. I tell you this, because once the 30 day challenges is over and I'm on the road traveling, I won't be able to blog much, if at all. For that reason I have begun asking people to be guest bloggers. I already have a few lined up but could use more.
If you have a cause or topic that you are knowledgeable and passionate about and would like to participate, please let me know either in the comments section below or in email. This is a non-commercial blog so the posts musts be about the topic you select. In exchange for you doing this to help me , I would also like to help you in return. At the bottom of your post I will put up a little blurb that says your name, what your business or cause is about or just about you, and your contact information, whatever you would like showing. That helps you promote something in return.
Anyone who is interested will have to mail me their post and the information to place below the post to acknowledge you as a guest blogger. I will put the posts on the blog after looking them over to check content, spelling,etc . (I bought my first laptop, and one of the reasons was so I could take it with me and keep up with this blog since it's so important to me to not lose momentum.)
It would be so great if some of you would agree to help me in this way. It will be refreshing to the readers to have some new perspectives and ideas, give me a short break, and allow me to recharge my batteries and think up new posts to share upon my return. I'm going to Oregon and Washington so will be visiting a rain forest, possibly two if we get to the Redwoods again, and the ocean as well as relatives and friends. Nature inspires me and has a special effect on my body and soul.
Thank you for considering this. If you know of anyone else who might be interested, please let them know of this opportunity to guest blog as well. Non-profit organizations and companies who are doing something wonderful can be listed in the post itself. Just no solicitations of your personal business due to the purpose of the blog. Please do share personal experiences, about people who have inspired you and what they have done, ideas and topics to make a difference in the world in any way, and quality resources.
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Inventors and discoverers wanted!
All my life I've been fascinated by inventors and their inventions, explorers and where they explore, and people who make discoveries and what they discover.
This week I read about Chester Greenfield, who in 1877 patented ear mufflers. He had large ears and loved to ice skate, so had his grandmother help him with his idea to keep his ears warm. He was a teenager at the time. The factory he started produces 400,000 ear muffs per year! He secured over 100 patents before his death in 1937. This sure impressed me. I'm sure that thousands of people have prevented frostbite and been thankful to keep their ears warm from just one of his patents! He made a real and big difference even though he isn't as well-known as people like Thomas Edison and Ben Franklin.
Everything in this world that is not a living thing has been created by someone somehow. For me that is a profound thought. It is this resourcefulness that helps human beings survive and thrive. When someone sees a need and then uses their ingenuity to figure out a way to create a solution, everyone benefits.
What is really interesting is to see how progress evolves. Think of all the solutions you know that were thought up to address just one issue - how people around the world could communicate with one another. What came to mind for me immediately were: the printing press, the postal system,
telegraph, camera, Braille, sign language, television, radio, ham radio, Morse code, World Wide web, internet, telephone, and cell phone. I'm sure there are several that I didn't even recall.
Try playing a game with your family at the dinner table today. Pick any issue at all, and then have everyone come up with solutions either already available or ideas on how to solve the challenge you mentioned. You could use the one I listed above, talk about all the forms of transportation that have been invented, solutions for the environment, or something you think up. This could be both a lot of fun and informative. This is a great educational activity for all ages, and helps keep your mind healthy too.
There are so many challenges that people, animals, and nature still face that there is plenty of opportunity for more people to come up with new ideas, inventions, and solutions as well as to improve on what is already known.
Discoveries in the world of medicine help with prevention, treatment, and cures. Processes to find natural resources easier or lessen our energy consumption ,such as cars that get more mpg and light bulbs that burn longer using less electricity, make a real difference.
Explorers who risked their lives and faced great peril and hardships helped humans in numerous ways. They passed on information about such things as flora, flauna, climate, topography, and much more. Today's explorers study things such as the heavens, the rain forest, underneath the ocean, DNA, and bacteria.
If you have any inclination and natural talent in any of these areas I mentioned, I implore you to follow your passion. You are wanted, needed, and will be appreciated for your work. Do not listen to those naysayers who would like to bring you down and steal your dream out from under you. Parents, encourage your children in whatever area that they are interested in. Don't choose for them.
Although I'm quite curious by nature, I have never done anything that would allow me to call myself an inventor,discoverer, or explorer like those I have read about. I'm writing this post because there are is only a small percentage of the population who leans towards doing this types of work either as their life's work or as a serious hobby. We need to encourage those people who have the passion and aptitude. I've seen many children, teenagers, young adults, and even older adults teased and discouraged for having ideas that could solve a problem. It is not silly to follow through with what you are led to do.
One of the things I'd invent if I had the know-how is a self-cleaning toilet using natural cleaner whenever you flush. I know that would make a real difference in bathrooms all over the world. I remember
many years ago watching Art Linkletter on his television show chat with children. He asked several children if they could invent anything, what would it be? Most of the kids didn't have a very good answer being asked that on the spur of the moment, but one child quickly answered with much enthusiasm " a roll of toilet paper that never ends." This child showed definite signs of potential to being a world problem-solver. You may have laughed, just like I did when I heard the little boy say that, but it's people like him who could help solve major problems like cleaning up pollution, or even cure the common cold! What would you like to see invented?
Thanks for reading and reflecting on my posts. Make your difference today in your own way!
This week I read about Chester Greenfield, who in 1877 patented ear mufflers. He had large ears and loved to ice skate, so had his grandmother help him with his idea to keep his ears warm. He was a teenager at the time. The factory he started produces 400,000 ear muffs per year! He secured over 100 patents before his death in 1937. This sure impressed me. I'm sure that thousands of people have prevented frostbite and been thankful to keep their ears warm from just one of his patents! He made a real and big difference even though he isn't as well-known as people like Thomas Edison and Ben Franklin.
Everything in this world that is not a living thing has been created by someone somehow. For me that is a profound thought. It is this resourcefulness that helps human beings survive and thrive. When someone sees a need and then uses their ingenuity to figure out a way to create a solution, everyone benefits.
What is really interesting is to see how progress evolves. Think of all the solutions you know that were thought up to address just one issue - how people around the world could communicate with one another. What came to mind for me immediately were: the printing press, the postal system,
telegraph, camera, Braille, sign language, television, radio, ham radio, Morse code, World Wide web, internet, telephone, and cell phone. I'm sure there are several that I didn't even recall.
Try playing a game with your family at the dinner table today. Pick any issue at all, and then have everyone come up with solutions either already available or ideas on how to solve the challenge you mentioned. You could use the one I listed above, talk about all the forms of transportation that have been invented, solutions for the environment, or something you think up. This could be both a lot of fun and informative. This is a great educational activity for all ages, and helps keep your mind healthy too.
There are so many challenges that people, animals, and nature still face that there is plenty of opportunity for more people to come up with new ideas, inventions, and solutions as well as to improve on what is already known.
Discoveries in the world of medicine help with prevention, treatment, and cures. Processes to find natural resources easier or lessen our energy consumption ,such as cars that get more mpg and light bulbs that burn longer using less electricity, make a real difference.
Explorers who risked their lives and faced great peril and hardships helped humans in numerous ways. They passed on information about such things as flora, flauna, climate, topography, and much more. Today's explorers study things such as the heavens, the rain forest, underneath the ocean, DNA, and bacteria.
If you have any inclination and natural talent in any of these areas I mentioned, I implore you to follow your passion. You are wanted, needed, and will be appreciated for your work. Do not listen to those naysayers who would like to bring you down and steal your dream out from under you. Parents, encourage your children in whatever area that they are interested in. Don't choose for them.
Although I'm quite curious by nature, I have never done anything that would allow me to call myself an inventor,discoverer, or explorer like those I have read about. I'm writing this post because there are is only a small percentage of the population who leans towards doing this types of work either as their life's work or as a serious hobby. We need to encourage those people who have the passion and aptitude. I've seen many children, teenagers, young adults, and even older adults teased and discouraged for having ideas that could solve a problem. It is not silly to follow through with what you are led to do.
One of the things I'd invent if I had the know-how is a self-cleaning toilet using natural cleaner whenever you flush. I know that would make a real difference in bathrooms all over the world. I remember
many years ago watching Art Linkletter on his television show chat with children. He asked several children if they could invent anything, what would it be? Most of the kids didn't have a very good answer being asked that on the spur of the moment, but one child quickly answered with much enthusiasm " a roll of toilet paper that never ends." This child showed definite signs of potential to being a world problem-solver. You may have laughed, just like I did when I heard the little boy say that, but it's people like him who could help solve major problems like cleaning up pollution, or even cure the common cold! What would you like to see invented?
Thanks for reading and reflecting on my posts. Make your difference today in your own way!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
.jpg)