12 Months of Kindness...revisited

Our 12 Months of Kindness has been going really well. I love the feeling of making time for others. Giving is receiving. Here's an update of little more than 1/3 of the way through the year.

January: goods donation to the our local Humane Society (bones, bedding, food, toys, etc)

-We donated $75 worth of food, treats, and toys to our local Human Society. We got more bang for the buck by going to Petco (where we are members and get discounts) and using coupons cut from the local paper.

February: bake cookies for the local Fire Department

-I made heart-shaped cookies for the Millcreek volunteer firefighters for Valentines day. They were at first confused then surprised and grateful that we thought of them. They are braver than us and we are grateful for them.

March: March Madness tournament poll (proceeds to Special Olympics)

-We had a great(!!) turnout for our March Madness poll tournament. Our family and friends raised over $290 that was donated to the PA Special Olympics. We received 26 tournament brackets and other friends donated even without participating in the game. We feel so lucky to have people in our lives that support us. The winner: Duke & Stacy Soltesz won a $50 VISA giftcard. In the spirit of the Special Olympics oath, "Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt," the person with the lowest score: Sarah Moffett received a $5 gift card to Starbucks.

April: plant trees (Earth day<3)>

Instead of a tree we opted for a raspberry bush. It is planted in a BIG pot on our back patio. I can't wait to pick fresh raspberry this summer. We have also planted chives and some potted plants. I love spring. We added composting to the list as well. We bought a compost bin from Millcreek twp ($6) and I have a composting "crock" -purchased from www.sustainlane.com -that allows me to keep compost stuff handy without making multiple trips to the bin. Our garbage has been minimized significantly. We love Mother Earth.

May: Valley Scholarship

-We received 5 essay entries to consider for our scholarship. It was inspiring to hear from Valley seniors about what is important to them and how they are trying to make a difference. We hope that the essay allowed the students to at least reflect on their power to influence others. We have always tried to be positive role models for others. I think we have chosen a good role model as our winner:) S/he is someone who demonstrated leadership and passion. They will receive $1000 scholarship towards their education for next year. The Senior Banquet will be held on May 7. B and I will be traveling to Johnstown to present our award. There will be a plaque in the office displaying all the scholarship award winner names starting this year.