Day 274: Clean the garage, donate more

What an absolutely gorgeous day for the last day of September. My friend, Tim, had asked me if I needed help with anything (the last couple of weeks, I've finally held my hand up to say - yes, I can use the help and accepted it. From one super fierce "I can do it myself woman", this has been a huge lesson for myself. I'm so use to expecting other people to accept help from me when I offer it, that I'm finally realizing we're so ingrained to not ask for it or if we do, it's a sign of weakness, etc. WRONG. It's a sign of strength and determination.)

So, Tim came over and we did some serious cleaning to that garage! Thank you Tim for all your help (and for the brownies :)) I can park inside there during winter, now, and bring little miss right inside and out from the direct cold.

As a result of cleaning the garage, we created quite the pile for donations. I took books, shoes (I cannot believe how many shoes I have donated this year) and a bunch of other things to Savers (which supports epilepsy foundation).

(Also, I am reading the book The Four Agreements by Don Muigel Ruiz recommended to me by my friend, Danielle. It's an ABSOLUTE must read for everyone out there.)

Day 273: Attend and support Rachael Schlingmanns benefit

http://m.postbulletin.com/postbulletin/pm_105557/contentdetail.htm?contentguid=4yRwEFSP

You can read Sharon and Rachael's story in the link above.

Today I attended the benefit at the Wicked Moose, all proceeds go to defray funeral costs and to further education on drug addiction.

Sharon, thank you for continuing to share your story. You have and will touch the lives of many. <3

Day 272: Gather, collect surprises for a single mother

Yesterday I posted on Facebook about a single mother I knew that I wanted to surprise her with some gifts. I thought by asking my friends, we could all do something really significant for her.

And that we did :-o I won't spoil the big surprise (it will be unveiled Monday) but today I ordered it, picked up gifts people contributed, friends dropped off some things....


A massive thank you to the generous hearts that wanted to join in on a random act of kindness. :)

We're going to completely blow her away when we see her Monday toting these surprises. :) Can't wait! Be sure to check in on Monday to hear all about it!!!!

Omgosh I'm so excited!! I know my friends are too!!!

Day 271: Donate and support Erin Pendergast

https://m.facebook.com/events/248337345284881/

Have you heard of Erin? If not, you should know about her after this blog post. :)

Here's Erin's story:

"In May 2012, Erin Pendergast was diagnosed with a grade IV cancerous brain tumor. Erin is also pregnant with her second child (she was about 24 weeks at the time of diagnosis). After weighing her options and carefully considering her unborn baby boy and the rest of her family–three-year-old Ethan and loving husband Ryan—Erin decided to fight by having brain cancer surgery in late May, followed by radiation treatments to her brain post-surgery and a course of oral chemotherapy pills. Her baby was born (at 34 weeks) in mid-August, and she will begin further radiation and chemotherapy treatments this fall.
Erin is an amazing mother, friend, co-worker, daughter, sister, and wife. Before her diagnosis, she was a full-time cardiology nurse at St. Mary’s Hospital. She’s anxious to get back to work but cannot return for an indeterminate amount of time.

Through it all, Erin’s attitude has remained positive, and she is hopeful she will be cancer-free after her treatments. Erin has an upbeat personality that you simply want to be around. That is why her many friends and family members are similarly hopeful that Erin’s treatment will be a success. We have a strong desire to help her in any way possible and have decided to hold a fundraiser to help her family financially so that they can focus on getting Erin back to her normal, fun, wonderful, and—most importantly—healthy self."

Today I purchased my ticket to attend Erin's event. The event is next Thursday, October 4 - 6:00pm-9:00pm at The Loop.

Please consider donating to Erin and her family. ~

Here's the link: https://fs22.formsite.com/kellen1/form33/secure_index.html

Day 270: Stopped for a person broke down on the side of the road

Today I took the day off so that I could get the rest of Madison's clothes washed, get the house ready/prepared for her arrival, and run some errands.

As I was running my final errand, I noticed a vehicle on the side of the road. The hood was up. I had jumper cables in my trunk (Renee, I still need to return those to you!)

I pulled up in front of them. Walked out of my car, they couldn't see me, until I came around the hood. As soon as the lady saw me, her eyes widened. Lol. Yes, a 38.5 week pregnant woman just stopped to help you jump your car! Lol

I asked if they needed help. She responded right away and said "My goodness! Thank you. We have triple AAA and Virgil's is on its way! You're pregnant!" I said "Yes I am (pregnant)! Lol. Do you need anything else?"

She thanked me profusely and I went on my way.

It felt great. Reminded me of my focus and why I originally made this a resolution.

Also. Sarah. You were my angel today. Thank you for making me your random act of kindness. <3

Day 269: Support another woman

Yesterday when I picked up my daughter, there was this other little girl playing with her. They were completely immersed in what they were doing and it was difficult to pry my daughter away. The other little girls mother smiled at me as my daughter finally came to me. Both her daughter and mine didn't want to stop playing together. Her daughter wanted to give my daughter a stick of gum, but her mother reminded her that they had walked down to the park and that she didn't have any on her.

Today, when I went to go pick up my daughter, the mother and my daughters new found friend was there again. I could tell the mother was glad her daughter connected with another little girl. My daughter begged to stay at the park and play with her friend. I agreed.

I looked at the other mom and asked if she'd like to sit down and chat. She eagerly agreed. As we chatted, it instantly became clear to me that this woman was meant to come across my path. She had her own experiences with the father of her child - it was difficult, challenging and I could tell she had her own pain from her experiences.

I listened. I spoke. I supported her. She supported me. We related.

It's truly eye-opening how each person has their own story, how they've become who they are and if we take the time to listen, we get to know some extraordinary people.

As my daughter and I were leaving, her daughter exclaimed that they had brought gum with them today. Of course, my daughter was all over that. :) When her daughter gave my daughter the piece of gum, I reminded my daughter that this was an act of kindness they bestowed on us. My daughter nodded her head and said "I understand, Momma". And I knew she did.

Today was a good day.


 

Day 268: Donate to United Way through employer

One of my absolute favorite organizations is United Way. I designated my gift to go toward Imagination Library - my daughter absolutely loved getting a new book every month. My favorite thing to Sonia cuddle with her at the end of the day and read to her. Best way to keep ER attention.

Day 267: Say thanks. Again and again and again.

This week has been one of the most challenging weeks of my life.

I knew I needed more then just myself to rely on at this point. I needed faith in humanity restored.

As a result, I reached out to my Facebook/friends/community.

And to say the support and kindness has been staggering, is truly an understatement.

One after another, a friend, a coworker, a family member, a stranger, etc. has come forward to give me a hug, send me a message, hold my hand, helped me pick up the pieces, let me know I'm not alone and most importantly - has shown me what love really means.

Also, thank you for all my delivery room stand-ins. <3 I can't wait to hold my daughter in my arms.

I've said thank you in the last week about a billion times. And I am not done.

I continue to read and acknowledge every kind word or act bestowed on myself, and for my daughters.

From every being of my soul and heart - thank you to every single person who has sent their support and love. Thank you for loving my girls and I - unconditionally.

Day 266: Big sister gifts to celebrate her and her little sister

100 days left in this New Years resolution. It's the one resolution that I've ever kept ...but also have grown and learn from.

Today I got gifts for my eldest daughter, when she comes to meet her little sister. I want me eldest to feel apart of this very special moment for all of us.

I got her a little baby that she can learn to swaddle right along momma :) also got her a daughter necklace that she can have as a constant reminder, when she looks down, how incredibly special she is.

Then the most important gift the book, 'Love you forever'.

I leave you tonight with this quote from the book:

"I'll love you forever,
I'll like you for always,
As long as I'm living,
My baby you'll be"

My two little girls have taught me the greatest lesson - what love really means.

Have a good night <3

Day 265: Visit a friend who had surgery

My friend, Karlys had surgery this week. I could tell she had hit a point of being stir crazy :-p Laura (best bud from the cities) and I stopped by tonight. :)

I paid forward a kind act bestowed on me, my friend Kiki brought over homemade lasagna, and I brought some of that over for Karlys too. Omgosh the lasagna was yummy!!!

Day 264: Donate to Redcross disaster relief

I am quite delayed in donating towards the impact of Hurricane Isaacs damage to the gulf. They need the help, especially now in recovery mode. <3

They've made it super easy by text REDCROSS to 90999 and it donates $10 :) pretty cool! Donated!

Thinking of you all down south <3

Day 263: Redeem a hug, pass it on

Yesterday my friend Kyle stopped by, handed me a coupon that said "Redeem a hug". Such a great idea! I took the coupon, handed it to him to redeem my hug and got one. :)

He had printed off several in case I wanted to do them for an act of kindness.

Today, I did.

As I was walking to my car, a college student was walking towards me. I had a hug coupon in my purse. I grabbed it, walked right up to her and said "I do a daily act of kindness. I'd like to give you this coupon. When you give it to someone they HAVE to give you a hug".

She was so surprised and I could tell that she appreciated the gesture.

Day 262: I will survive

I'm a day behind and I'm designating this day as one where no matter what happens in your life - you WILL survive. While I didn't commit an act of kindness to another person, I did commit one for myself and that was to take care of me. In return - my daughter benefits, my unborn child benefits and those around me benefit.

And this is why I love comedy:

"Through humor, you can soften some of the worst blows that life delivers. And once you find laughter, no matter how painful your situation might be, you can survive it." Bill Cosby

On that note, I walked down 7 flights of stairs today hoping to induce labor. Thought that would be an excellent act of kindness for all of those around me since that would end my whining :-p didn't work. Boo! :)

Day 261: When you're hurting - do an act of kindness

So, I'm an open book. I don't hold anything back. I figure I'm not the only one in the world that experiences heartache. If my story or journey can help someone else, then here we go.

I'm 37 weeks pregnant and about to travel the rest of this journey on my own. Not something you'd expect or even want - but I'm realizing that I'm a lot stronger then I realize sometimes. And I have way more of an massive support system then I could have ever hoped for!

I definitley didn't feel up to doing anything other then laying down - but soldiered on.

But I did do an act of kindness. I got brownies and gave one to my boss and the other to my coworker (and she paid it forward by sharing it with her mom!)

When you're thinking and doing for others, it's hard to feel sorry for yourself

Day 260: Offer and take some pics for a stranger

Hmmmm. Not sure how to start this days blog post today. I will say that I was pretty cranky today - could be the pregnancy hormones or just other stuff. (sigh)

I didn't really FEEL like doing anything other then lay down and veg (ok, that's definitely the pregnancy 37th week talking).

But I rallied, and went to the apple orchard in Mazzepa.

While the kids and Scott went on the tractor ride and picked apples, I stayed behind - and literally sat = did nothing. It was wonderful.

As I was sitting there I noticed another mom trying to wrangle her kids in for a picture. I offered to take a pic with her in it. All of us moms know how little pics we have with our kids, since we're the ones usually behind the camera.

She happily said yes. Couple of snaps later I walked back to my seat (a hay bail) and started feeling like me again. Doing an act of kindness changed my pregnancy hormone induced grumpy attitude around. <3

Day 259: Give a ride to out of towners

Thursday night I met a couple from West Virginia (they transplanted to Washington D.C.) attending and in the same wedding for our friends.

I was asked if I'd be willing to give them a ride today to the hotel for gift wrap opening, I said yes of course!

I had so much fun getting to know Amanda and John <3

Day 258: Cater to wedding guests

Today I was a personal attendant in my friend, Angie's wedding. It was an absolutely beautiful event and I feel lucky to have been apart of it. Her other attendant and I ensured that all of her needs were met....

and

I decided that my act of kindness today would be to ensure that as many guest felt comfortable, welcomed, acknowledged, etc.

I got water for their grandmother. Played "cruise director" and made sure that everything was on time. Answered questions that guest had, blocked access in front of the slideshow, so it was visible to guest, directed people to the bathroom - even while I was using it. haha.

And lastly, didn't kill any bees (was kind to mother nature) that came at me from all angles during the outside wedding pictures and ceremony :-o

Day 257: End child hunger

http://www.arbysfoundation.org/GetInvolved.html

I went to Arbys today to get some lunch - they asked me if I wanted to donate $1 to end child hunger.

Further research showed that ALL proceed goes to Arby's campaign to end child hunger. I like that :)

I donated :)

Day 256: Bring dinner over for a friend who got injured

Over labor day weekend I met a guy that's dating one of my friends. I instantly enjoyed his company- easy to talk to, supportive of his girl - and he helped my boyfriend grill some of the food.

I saw on his facebook a couple of days ago that he had gotten hit by a car while riding his bike and was basically immobile from it. I offered to bring him dinner, and I am glad he accepted!

Tonight I made the best spaghetti I've ever made (have I ever made spaghetti before? Can't remember! Haha)

My boyfriend enjoyed it :)

I dropped 2 tubs of it to Joel. One for dinner tonight and one for dinner another night. He was very appreciative.

Joel, speedy recovery vibes! I'll be over to get you out of the house soon <3

Day 255: Give stickers to two little girls

Tonight we toured the birth center where our daughter will be born. It was such a neat experience and made me ansy to hold our daughter soon.

As we toured the birth center, there were these two little girls there. My eldest daughter was with me. I asked her if she'd be willing to share and help me do an act of kindness for the two girls, of course my daughter said yes :)

A few minutes later, two little girls were grinning with sparkly stickers on their shirts :)

Day 254: Support a local business

http://www.FiveOhSeven.com/

A brand new local business, FiveOhSeven has partnered with Snappy Stop. Both are embracing the local, grassroots side of Rochester. FiveOhSeven has released a shirt exclusively at Snappy Stop. It's a limited edition shirt and once they're gone, they're gone.

You can get a burger AND a cool t-shirt so you never forget what city you're in! HA!

Supporting local businesses are a good thing. Good Luck Bucky and Dallas! I'm behind you :)

Day 253: Ways to Amaze

http://www.waystoamaze.com.au/

A couple days ago I had a Facebook friend post on my wall stating that he "wished there were more people out there that did good deeds everyday too"

Here's one for you Mike!

I received an email from a woman named Rebecca. She found my blog and wanted to share about her website 'Ways to Amaze'. I took a look at it and it's a pretty incredible idea and endeavor. She touches on the fact that there is so much negative in the media and sometimes are daily lives - her effort is to show how much positive there is in this world.

I love it.

Rebecca, I look forward to watching your quest for kindness and supporting it!

Day 252: Let someone go in front of me

I went to target today to grab some last minute things needed before our daughter arrives. Mainly, diapers. :-p

I didn't have much so I went to the 10 items or less line.

There was a couple in front of me. As I was waiting to go through a man and his daughter rushed up. I could tell he looked in a hurry. I immediately offered for him to go in front of me. He said "are you sure?" I said "Of course!" he thanked me over and over, and then told me he was running late for a wedding and he was extremely grateful that I let him go ahead.

Day 251: Support Jessica walking for ALS and her dad

http://webmn.alsa.org/site/TR/Walks/Minnesota?px=1947125&pg=personal&fr_id=8208

Jessica (a friend of mine) is walking tomorrow for her dad who had ALS. ALS, a disease that often is referred to as Lou Gehrig's Disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive, fatal neuromuscular disease that slowly robs the body of its ability to walk, speak, swallow and breathe. It takes your body, but not your mind so often patients are left in a vegetaive state. The life expectancy of an ALS patient averages 2 to 5 years from the time of diagnosis. This crippling disease can strike anyone.

More details at her link above.

No one should ever have to experience this disease.

Today I donated! Will you consider donating too?

Day 250: Help with homework

Tonight I helped the college student I'm mentoring with organizing, and doing homework. When I picked him up I had an Oreo shake waiting in the car for him. He was so excited.

We came to my place and I got him setup on the laptop. He spent two hours on his homework :)

Day 249: Send comments about amazing staff at City market

I'll let the email do the talking :)

I sent this email to the owner/manager of City market.

Day 248: Research Study Survey participant

Today I attended a meet and greet for a Resilience training (stress management) class. I'm taking the class so that I can apply it to managing typical stress that comes up with working full time, impending birth of my baby girl, caring for another daughter, going to school almost full time, mentoring another college student, maintaining relationships and so on.

As part of the class, they asked if we would be willing to fill out an extensive survey today, at 12 weeks when the class is complete and then at three months after the class completed. Completely for research study - this gives them a range of level of stress presently, then afterwards how we apply the tools we're taught and if we still maintain those tools. I filled out the survey. :)

Day 247: Birthday brownie and coffee

Last night I made some confetti brownies for labor day festivities we would host today, but one corner of brownie was baked for someone special.

This morning that brownie had a lit candle and coffee, with some cute kids chaperoning it to the birthday girl :)

What an absolute gorgeous day too. We had friends over and had an absolute blast grilling and enjoying the weather!

Day 246: Helped another mom lug stuff up a hilly beach

Today we took our daughters to Chesterwoods for swimming in this gorgeous weather! They had a blast!

I sat on the beach. My pregnant belly is becoming quite cumbersome and it gets pretty taxing to exert a lot of energy. :-p

As I was sitting on the beach, I noticed a mom trying to maneuver several bags, a toddler and a massive blanket up this steep hill as she was leaving.

I went to her and took the blanket out of her hands, telling her "Let me help you!"

She was immediately grateful and said "you must know how it feels!" I smiled at her and said "Absolutely!"

Day 245: Donuts

I think most of my acts of kindness lately have involved found. :-o let's blame the pregnancy on that one!

This morning I snuck out with the two of our girls and we picked up donuts and coffee/smoothies for those still asleep at the house.

I love spoiling our family.

On another note: a stranger bestowed an act of kindness on me today. As I was holding all the beverages, I was trying to put my cart away in the corral.

A man came up and said "You've got your hands full and expecting! Let me put that cart away for you!"

He had no clue that I was exhausted already and just wanted to get home!