Category: update

For a long time I didn’t know what BOGO stood for; now I do “Buy one Get one.” Today’s challenge is along that line – buy one for yourself and one for someone else.

Before heading to California I bought two picture storybooks for my grandchildren, only to discover that they already had one of them, the true story of the bear behind “Winnie the Pooh”. In consultation with Trina and Mina I decided rather than carry it home again, I’d give the one I brought to the pre-school/daycare centre (Building Kidz Scotts Valley) Mina and Volker attend. I hope the book is well loved there!

Today we are challenged to share our skills, talents, insights and experiences with others. Again, I do this regularly on my job. 

Recently I created a slideshow for a woman from FMC. Liz was giving a seniors’ group the story of her life so I scanned pictures and put them together according to her script. It was a lot of fun and I enjoyed getting to know Liz better. 

At other times in my life I have taught smocking and crochet. I enjoy teaching. And sharing my skills is very fulfilling. 

Today’s challenge in generosity is to be especially considerate and grateful to the many people who serve you in a day. The people behind the counter in stores and businesses, the wait staff in a restaurant, the crew of the aircraft — every day we are served by others. Acknowledge them with genuine attention. 

I was blessed this morning when Kristie, the woman who cleans at Trina’s house once a week, greeted me with a hug. I’d never actually met her before though I’d seen  her on a video chat. And I’m not a very ‘huggy’ person (like my beloved sister, Cheryl) but it felt good to be greeted so warmly this morning. I want to pass that on.
   And on an entirely different note, it is raining here again today.  The forecast is for the weather to clear up on Tuesday – the day I leave at 5:00am!  Oh, well, I just keep reminding myself how much California needs the water. 

Today’s challenge: to make someone’s day with a treat.

Today is my beloved daughter’s 37th birthday. I’m so grateful for her, so in awe of the person she is.

We will be celebrating her birthday with a dinner out, but on the weekend I will take the grandkids to buy a very special birthday cake for a very special woman.

“Choose not to shy away from a cause today.” Today’s challenge is to consider what cause you are passionate about and then to listen for God’s prompting on what you might do about it – daring to believe that you can be used.

Many years ago I signed my first internet petition. Now I get bombarded with requests. I appreciate those who send along links to information that background stories can be checked. I don’t sign my name unless I believe in the cause.

As well, I support various organizations that are trying to make the world a better place. Mennonite Central Committee, Mennonite Coalition for Refugee Support, International Teams, along with my local and national church are the ones I give to regularly. I also give a small monthly donation to Avaaz, and sometime to Open Media because I believe in an open internet. My voice may be small, but many voices together can make a big noise.