Random Act of Kindness: Day 31

December 31, 2009

I can hardly believe that it has been 31 days of doing "Random Acts of Kindness". It has truly changed my life as I go about my day looking for someone who needs words of kindness, encouragement, a listening ear, monetary blessings, or words of cheer. They say it takes 14 days for something to become a habit and I hope I will continue to look for "Random Acts of Kindness" throughout 2010.

Well, my final "Random Act of Kindness" for the month of December is I said a prayer for "YOU" for the New Year.

My Prayer For You

Dear Lord,

Please bless the person who is reading this prayer. Give them more laughter than tears, may they encourage more than discourage, may they love more than hate, may they smile more than frown, and may they have abundance of joy, peace, and prosperity. May everything you attempt find success and opportunities galore. May God's love surround you and your loved ones in 2010.

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2010 !!!!!!

Debbie

Random Act of Kindness: Day 30

December 30, 2009

I was cleaning up some old papers and cards off of my dresser and came across a letter from an old friend. We had not talked in almost a year and she had change jobs. I often thought about how she was doing in her new position. So many times I would just let that thought go, but today I stopped and called her. We talked and caught up. She loves her new position and her family is doing great. We caught up on each other's lives and it was so nice talking to her. If a family member or friend comes to your thoughts or heart, stop and call to see how they are doing.

Blood Donations To The American Redcross

Here is an interesting fact. Eighty-eight percent of adults make New Year's resolutions, but only twenty percent keep them. Here's a New Year's resolution you can keep if you're healthy and strong. Give blood to the American Red Cross. The Red Cross makes an annual push in January for donors. It will only take a little of your time to help save a life. Think about it! To get more information on donating blood to the American Red Cross go to http://www.givebloodgivelife.org/ .

What Does Family Mean To Me?

What does family mean to me?

It means laughter and sharing and loving and caring.

What does family mean to me?

It means forgiving, and living, and teasing, and pleasing.

What does family mean to me?

It means praying, and staying, and playing, and never delaying.

What does family mean to me?

It means caring, and bearing, and needing, and meeting.

What does family mean to me?

It means kissing, and missing, and hugging, and bugging.

What does family mean to me?

Everything!!

By: Debra E. West

Random Act of Kindness: Day 29

December 29, 2009

I called my sister on the phone to encourage her to talk to her entire family on making a Family New Year's Resolution. She like the idea and said they were going to try out the idea. I truly hope they will. I am going to talk to my family members and get going on our Family New Year's Resolution. If you would like more information on this wonderful idea, read my December 28Th blog.

New Year's Resolutions

Every year we all make New Year's Resolutions or promises to ourselves to make the new year better. Many times these resolution are broken or discontinued. Why not sit down with your family and make a group New Year's Resolution. It could be things that will make the family stronger or better financially. Here are some step to take to make this a reality:

1. Have a family meeting and talk about needs of family.

2. Have everyone make a list of things that are realistic that the family can achieve in the coming year.

3. Come up with a compromise or family agreement on what the New Year's Resolution will be.

4. Make it plain what every one's responsibility will be in making the New Year's Resolution a reality.

5. Come up with a time table and meeting time to encourage everyone in meeting their part of the agreement.

6. Just do it!

Random Act of Kindness: Day 28

December 28, 2009

I was cleaning out my closet and getting rid of old clothes and household items. I bagged the clothes and items that were worth anything and took them to Christmas Charity Year Round and took some to the Salvation Army. Many people at the end of the year will give to churches and charities to get tax credits. Make sure the charity is truly performing the serves they claim. Look into the reputation of the organizations before you give your donation. Many charitable organizations need our support in these financially trying times, but just make sure they are performing the services for your community.

Stop Worrying

Children of worried and fearful parents become withdrawn and are at greater risk for anxiety disorder. When a teacher encounters a worried anxious child, it is almost assured that when they meet the parent there will be a worried anxious adult. These parents are usually over-protective and the child is unable to do many things independently. These children can many times be afraid to take risk or make mistakes. The worst part about these types of children are they usually are overprotected and are more likely to seek out unhealthy thrills as teens and young adults.

Parents make sure you are not passing on your anxieties and fears to your child. It will continue through generations and generations. So, worried and fearful parents get help and stop the cycle now!

Random Act of Kindness: Day 27

November 27, 2009

I took my grand-daughter to McDonald's for lunch today. When we went to the window I saw a young lady who was taking the money and giving out the meals. I gave her the money for the meal and $5.00 and said, Happy New Year"! She was surprise. Our young people (and older workers) work at fast food places and retail without really getting vacation or health benefits. Show them you appreciate them.

Stacie Johnson this ones for you!! :)

Random Act of Kindness: Day 26

December 26, 2009

I called a friends today to see how her Christmas turned out. It was good to talk to her and we laughed and reminisced about days gone by. I know she appreciated the call. It was a chance to catch up on what was happening in our lives and to show someone you are thinking about them and you love them. So, call a friend or family member and catch up.

Random Act of Kindness: Day 25

December 25, 2009

My good friend and her family are going out of town. Her oldest daughter has a job in retail sales and has to work the day after Christmas. She told her mother she would like to spend Christmas with our family and stay while they are out of town. I told her sure!!! I went out and brought her a few gifts to open while she is with us. I am honored that she wants to spend time with my family. I want her to feel at home and enjoy her Christmas!! Share your Christmas or holiday with someone who will be alone. It will bless you and teach your children about sharing and giving back.

The Reason For the Season

Christmas Day is a very joyous holiday. I was watching CNN last night and they are celebrating Christmas in Turkey and other Islamic countries, and some people in Israel. The people they interview said they celebrate Christmas because it is a positive and beautiful holiday. They have Christmas trees, Santa Claus, decorations, and presents. It is all about spending time with loved ones and family. The merchants said it was also good for business to celebrate Christmas.

But we must remember that we celebrate Christmas because of the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. We should remember He loved us so much He came to earth to show us how to live and then He died for our sins to save us. Teach your children the reason for the season and tell them it's about love and sharing, not about just receiving presents.

Have a very Merry Christmas and please remember "The Reason For The Season"!

Random Act of Kindness: Day 23

December 24, 2009

I was in the store getting a few groceries and went to the check out line. There were so many people in line and I saw a woman behind me with only a gift card. I told her to go ahead of me. She was really happy she didn't have to wait in the long lines. Even the express lines were rapped around the store. She was very appreciative. People have let me in line before and it really is a nice jester. Always look for opportunities to be kind and make some one's day.

Random Act of Kindness: Day 23

December 23, 2009

I was told there were some kids living with their grandparents and they didn't have any Christmas present for them. I was listening to channel 31 and they were telling people that if they needed assistance for Christmas that Christmas Charities Year Round still were servicing people. I immediately thought of those children and gave the information needed to get the kids a nice Christmas. I know those children and their grandparents will be excited when they see their gifts. Christmas Charities is a wonderful organization to give to if you are looking to give a donation or lightly used toys and clothes before the year is out.

Random Act of Kindness: Day 22

December 22, 2009

Today was the last day of school before the Holiday Break. I went home during my lunch break and brought my two dogs back to school. They are 3/4 dachsund and the female is black and the male is golden brown. I wanted to show them to the person who gave me the two puppies. She gave them to me over a year ago and wanted to see them again. They have truly brought my family such joy. After I showed them to her I took them to my grandson's classroom and the other first grade classroom. The children were really happy to see them and the dogs seemed to enjoy the attention. The middle school children enjoyed seeing them too. It was nice bringing the children such happiness.

Walk It Off

Millions of Americans don't exercise because they think working out has to be challenging to be beneficial. Walking can be a good form of exercise and can keep you thin. A 2009 study of nearly 5,000 men and women found that Americans gain an average of more than 2 pounds a year once they reach middle age. They also found that the more walking they do the less weight they put on.

For best results the American Heart Association, in partnership with the American College of Sports Medicine, recommends adults walk briskly for at least 30 minutes, five days a week. To read more about walking to keep thin read the November 2009 issue of "Family Circle".

Random Act of Kindness: Day 21

December 21, 2009

I started testing the fifth grade classes. These children made remarkable progress since the beginning of the year, and it is really hard to improve older children's reading fluency. I talked to the teachers and told them how proud I was of their classes and the hard work they were doing. We just need to remember that everyone needs to feel appreciated. Tell someone they are doing a good job today!

Random Act of Kindness: Day 20

November 20, 2009

I was listening to my grand-daughter laughing in the family room as she watched a Christmas movie. She turned 13 this past August and it is hard to believe time goes so quickly. She is such a wonderful young lady and I am so proud of her. I stopped and wrote her a card to tell her how proud I am of her and how much I appreciate her. She was really surprised and just hugged and kissed me. Make sure your loved ones know how proud you are of them and give them some encouragement today!

Let's Be Mindful!!

I decided to take the challenge of doing one "Random Act of Kindness" a day for the entire month of December. When I decided to do this my cousin, Meera, (who I found this precious family member on fb), commented that it would make one mindful of what they are doing throughout the day. That was such a true statement. It has made me think about what I say and do, because I am constantly thinking about the impact I will have on some one's experience while I am with them. It has been challenging at times, but it also has changed the way I interact with others on a daily basis. I not only try to do one "Random Act of Kindness" a day, I think about the impact I can make throughout the day. We need to teach our children about being kind and thoughtful and being mindful of our actions and words. It has truly blessed me this month.

Random Act of Kindness: Day 19

December 19, 2009

There is a winter storm all over the Northeast section of this country. That is home for me and all of my family lives in the suburbs of Philadelphia and New Jersey. I called my dad, two sisters, and some of my cousins to make sure everyone was alright and prepared for the storm. Everyone had power and food and were in for the weekend. Try to stay in touch with loved ones during these times. It will mean a lot to them that someone is thinking of them and concerned.

Random Act of Kindness: Day 18

December 18, 2009

I went to the store today to get two books for my grand-daughters school Christmas Party. There were no other customers in the store and the cashier came over and we started talking. She told me about her twin boys and showed me a picture of those precious children. We talked about Christmas and her boys and my grand-children. We laughed and enjoyed each others stories. It is nice to show interest in someone else.

Face The Music

According to the November 2009 issue of "Family Circle" magazine, 13% of children ages 6-19 already show signs of permanent noise induced hearing loss, says a new CDC report. Many experts blame the increased use of MP3 players. Below is sound advice from Ron Eavey, M.D., an ENT at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, on how your kid can keep their hearing safe.

1. Weigh In - Whenever you can hear what your child is listening to on the iPod, it's too loud. Develop a hand signal, like tapping your ear, to alert the music is too loud.

2. Take Control - Most MP3 players allow you to set a maximum volume limit. (For iPods, visit www.apple.com/sound ) If you can't tell get your child to keep it at 50% or less.

3. Change Headgear - Swap earbuds for earphones that cover the whole ear. Research shows that they block more outside noise, so kids are less likely to crank up the sound.

4. Limit Listening - Have your child play music through speakers when she's at home. Kids shouldn't have noise flowing directly into their ears for more than an hour a day.

5. Call a Doctor - If your child uses an MP3 player more than seven hours a week, take your child to an audiologist for a hearing evaluation. Find one at http://www.asha.org/ .

Random Act of Kindness: Day 17

December 17, 2009

My grand-daughter goes to pre-school where I work. Every morning I go in and see her at breakfast or lunch. She calls me "MiMi", so all of the children in her class call me "MiMi". She was not at school today because she had a doctor's appointment. I decided to go in and speak to all of the children in her class like I always do. They all said, "Hi MiMi". I went around and gave each one of them their daily hug. I hope they all feel special!!!

What To Do If Your Child Has Trouble With A Teacher

Before you rush into a battle with a teacher or administrator, it is important to get the facts. Yes, some teachers are harsh, but it is also true that sometimes kids don't always tell the whole truth or sometimes stretch the truth. Here are a few tips to help with dealing with this problem:

1. Cool off and investigate the facts. Remember you were not there to witness the incident and there are two sides to every story.

2. Tell your child how you expect them to react to any problem with an adult. They must be respectful. If there is a punishment, let the child deal with the consequences of their behavior.

3. If there are still problems and it does not seem to be getting better, make an appointment to meet and talk with the teacher.

4. Go in with the attitude of wanting to understand what is going on and wanting to help with a solution. Kids can and often do exaggerate and manipulate their parents.

5. You should leave the meeting feeling like you understand what is going on and there should be a resolution or plan in place so the problem doesn't continue.

6. If you are not satisfied with the meeting results with the teacher, make an appointment with the principal. Make sure you bring all the facts and have handled it calmly and correctly.

Random Act of Kindness: Day 16

December 16, 2009

My sister fell down the stairs and really hurt herself. She had to stay home for a couple of weeks and heal from the fall. I called during the weekends see how she was doing. She started back to work just recently. I called her today to see how she was doing getting back to her work routine. She was glad I called to see about her. We talked for an hour laughing!!! Make sure you stay in touch with loved ones and make sure they are doing alright. Ask questions to see if there is anything you can do. Keep the conversation light and make them laugh. You both will get a lot of joy out of the call.

Does Your Child Have Trouble Going To Sleep At Night?

If your child has trouble falling off to sleep at night, here is a solution; extra exercise. According to an article in the November 2009 "Family Circle" magazine, the more active children and teens are during the day, the faster they will fall asleep at night. Sedentary children in the study took up to 42 minutes to doze off, while those who moved the most nodded off in just 13 minutes. Since lack of sleep raises the risk for weight gain and poor grades, encourage your children to go for a bike ride, play a sport, or help with chores around the house.

Random Act of Kindness: Day 15

December 15, 2009

I continue to test first grade. They did so well and had improved so much since the beginning of the year. It was hard to believe these children were in a major production and play, and had missed a lot of the academic instruction for the last month. It goes to show you how important the arts really are for a child's development. After testing more than half of the class, I went to the teacher and congratulated her on all the hard work and the improvement that was obviously from her hard work and instruction. She was really appreciative. If you know someone has worked hard, why not tell them what a good job they are doing. I could tell she appreciated someone noticing.

Help Children Move From Grade To Grade and School To School

School is the definition of change. Each year students must get use to the next grade, new teacher, and different classmates. Stress really multiples when kids make the great leap from elementary school to middle school and middle school to high school. Not only are the academics and extra personal responsibility more challenging, new middle-school students must learn to cope with puberty, peer pressure, and exposure to negative influence.

Through all these changes, big and small, your child will look to you for perspective, expectation, and advice. Here are some suggestions for helping your child with school changes according to Stephen C. George, in the September 2009 issue of "Better Homes and Gardens".

1. Nervous is normal - Let your child know it is normal to be nervous. Share a story about your own back-to-school jitters.

2. Get a conversation going - The last thing a kid wants is to hear a lecture, so look for opportunities to spark a conversation. Don worry about invading your child's privacy.

3. Don't do all the talking - Listen to the child once they open up to you. Help them think through the problem and let them solve it on their own if possible.

4. Tackle the touchy subjects - Talking about sex, drugs, and bullying with children is a tough job, but every parent has to when the time comes.

5. Get help - Sometimes, kids need someone else with the benefit of experience closer to their age. This is why many school districts have adopted buddy systems.

6. Say the "v" word - Every talk with your child is the opportunity to remind them of your values.

Random Act of Kindness: Day 14

December 14, 2009

Today was a very busy day! I am testing all the children in First Grade to see if they are reading on grade level and also their comprehension skills. I greeted each child with a smile and talked to every child I came in contact with today. I will continue to do this from now on with all the other grade levels. Not only did I talk to them before testing them I tried to make sure they were relax and comfortable. I want them to do their best and not feel intimidated by me or the test. What a joy and privilege it is to work with children. I just love my job!!

Wish List for Older Children

According to Celia Shatzman, associate editor of Family Circle Magazine, kids who are over the letter-to-Santa deal, the next best thing is Wishpot.com. Just download the Wishpot button to their computer toolbar lets them create one master wish list with stuff they want from any retailer on the Web. Then let them share their "Wish List" with grandma and other friends and relatives. This is also a good idea for birthdays and other special occasions.

Make sure your children understand that they should think about others during this Holiday Season. Encourage them to think of something they can do for someone less fortunate, soldiers serving overseas, or a favorite charity. It can become a family tradition!!

Random Act of Kindness: Day 13

December 13, 2009

When my husband woke up this morning I had a small note telling him how much I love and appreciate everything that he does for me and our family. When he saw the envelope on this sink he picked it up and said, "What is this?" I watch him read the note as a big smile appeared on his face. He laughed leaned over and gave me a hug and a kiss. Maybe this is the time I should ask for that diamond watch? LOL!!!! Let your loved ones know how much you love them as often as possible. It is a nice surprise to know your efforts are appreciated and you are loved.

Brain Food

Kids are always hungry. Melinda Johnson, spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association and owner of the company Nutrition for Slackers (http://www.slackersnutrition.blogspot/ ), suggest quick, easy, and healthy ideas for meals and snacks for kids.

Morning Starters:

1. Oatmeal made with skim milk and raisins

2. Frozen waffles with frozen berries and walnuts

3. String cheese with a piece of fruit and wheat crackers

4. Scrambled eggs with low-fat cheese wrapped in a tortilla

5. Hummus with celery sticks and wheat pita

6. Toasted English muffin with tomato sauce and cheese

7. Fruit smoothie with frozen fruit and yogurt

Afternoon Snack

1. Fresh whole fruit

2. Low-fat string cheese

3. Prepackaged fruit cup in fruit juice or water

4. Homemade trail mix

5. Carrot/celery sticks with low-fat ranch

6. Oatmeal-raisin cookie

Evening Snack

1. Small bowl of cereal with skim milk

2. Plain yogurt with honey and sunflowers

3. Cottage cheese with pineapples

4. Hot chocolate made with skim milk

5. Slice of wheat toast with nut butter

6. 1 cup of air-popped corn sprinkled with Parmesan cheese

Random Act of Kindness: Day 12

December 12, 2009

At school we have special needs students who I have learned are so precious and really smart. The teachers and aides are very special people as I watch them teach, encourage, and attend to each child's needs. This morning an aide came into the cafeteria to get one of the students, She had a cup of coffee in her hand the student grabbed her purse and she dropped her cup of coffee. I really felt so sorry for her. I remembered that we had some sample packets of instant coffee in the front office. So I went to the office and got 4 sample coffee packets and got some cream. I walked back and gave her the coffee and cream. She was really surprised and very appreciative. Just a small thing like that can make a persons day brighter.

When A Parent Loses A Job

Unemployment isn't just a financial strain, it's a family one. Minimize the stress of a job loss with these tips by Stephen C. George:

1. Stay on a schedule with small children - Young children are happier and less anxiety-prone if they have a consistent routine.

2. Know when to walk away - There is stress enough with looking for a new job. Add a crying baby or insistent toddler to the mix and it is enough to put any parent over the edge. Expect this and plan for it.

3. Share your feelings - Most school age kids understand the impact, so share the problem and plan, but not until you have a plan in place.

4. Encourage questions - Let your kids know thy can ask questions and answer them as honestly as possible.

5. Let them help - Kids may not be able to change a parent's job prospects, but they can feel more in control if they each have responsibilities to handle.

6. Look for lessons - Make sure your older children understand that unemployment is serious but surmountable.

School Wellness Kit

With all the germs that are pasted around schools in the winter months, a school wellness kit is a good idea. Kids, especially adolescents, will have little complications such as hangnails or a lost contact lens can grow into a BIG DEAL! Sent your child to school with a wellness kit recommended by Dr. Kate Cronan, pediatrician and medical expert for http://www.kidhealth.org/ . Most everything will fit into a shaving bag or toiletry bag. Check with the school office for a list of exactly what is allowed with a child or in a locker.

Wellness Kit:


1. Hand sanitizer
2. Travel-pack of tissue
3. Lip balm
4. Throat lozenges
5. Breath mints
6. Band-Aids
7. Soft nail file
8. Travel-size deodorant
9. Nonperishable healthy snack (trail mix, protein bar, etc)
10. Sunscreen for field trips/recess

Random Act of Kindness: Day 11

December 11, 2009

I called a good friend of mine that I haven't talked to in awhile. She was happy to hear from me. We just caught up on the latest things happening in both of our lives and had a wonderful conversation. It was so nice! So, if someone comes into your thoughts, give them a call and say HI!!!! It will make their day and yours too!

Random Act of Kindness: 10

December 10, 2009

I was talking to a friend and she was telling me she was discouraged and needed prayer. I stopped the conversation and I said, "Let's pray right now". I started praying for her and when the prayer was finished she thanked me. I could tell there was a lift in her spirit and truly hope she is having a wonderful day. So many times people ask for you to pray for them and we may forget or pray later. Why not stop and pray immediately. That way they hear and know you are praying for them!

Random Act of Kindness: Day 9

December 9, 2009

I was working with some children on letter sounds and blending. We did several different activities and I kept encouraging them every time they answered a questions. All of a sudden you could see their eyes light up with excitement because they truly understood the concept. There is nothing more rewarding then to see the light bulb come on in a child's mind and a brighter smile appear on their sweet faces. By simply believing in their abilities and encouraging them means all the difference in them getting discouraged or encouraged. Just be positive with your child when helping them with new concepts and you will be surprised at what he/she can do.

Random Act of Kindness: Day 8

December 8, 2009

I talked to the group of 11 girls who are "Angels" in the play, "Mr. Grumpy's Toy Shoppe", about kindness today. I explained how important it is to be kind to one another. Some of the girls are very kind, while others are critical and almost cruel. I explained that what you put out in the universe will come back. I only hope I touched someone to try to be more thoughtful and kind and, my talk will help them develop into wonderful young ladies I know they can be.

For The Love of Cupcakes

Angie Dudley loves cupcakes. As a matter of fact, she loves cupcakes so much she decided to take a cake-decorating class two years ago. Before that she had never made a cake from scratch. She started blogging her progress as a baker and quickly became a hit with her readers. Why not turn your gift of baking, cooking, sewing, writing, or taking pictures into an enterprise. With your talent and passion it could turn into something big. Suggest your children get involved and make it a family project. Just think about it and get started. To read more about Angie's cupcake read her blog at http://www.bakerella.com/.

Random Act of Kindness: Day 7

December 7, 2009

At The Academy for Academics and Arts, the children continue to perform "Mr. Grumpy's Workshop". I am responsible for putting on the makeup and costumes of all the "Angels" in the play. These 11 girls are 7Th and 8Th graders who have very different qualities and personalities. I speak to each one of them individually as I makeup their faces and give them compliments and suggestions on making their speaking and singing parts better. I have seen their performance improve and confidence grow in each girls. What a blessing!!!

Forgiveness is Healing

A gift you can give yourself this season is the gift of forgiveness. It is astounding the benefits for both your body and soul forgiveness will bring. Better yet, showing your children how to forgive will be a tool they can utilize for the rest of their lives.

Although there is no single path to forgiveness, here are expert guidelines to follow according to December 2009, "Good House Keeping" magazine:

1. Allow yourself to feel anger before trying to let go of the hurt and how you can protect yourself in the future.

2. Talk about it with a trusted friend or therapist. Not only can this help you sort out how you feel, it can also allow you to see alternative viewpoints.

3. Calm yourself when you start feeling upset. It can help to go for a walk or do something else to calm down. Practicing meditation helps reduce stress and enhance a person's ability to forgive.

4. Empathize with the person who hurt you. Put yourself in the shoes of the person who hurt you, or recall a time that you hurt someone and were forgiven.

5. Remind yourself that forgiveness is a gift to yourself. It is easy to think of your own self-interest rather than the interest of a person who wounded you.

6. Commit to forgiveness. Once you feel like you've reached a turning point, write it down or tell someone - a friend, your spouse, or the person who hurt you. Forgiveness is easier to hold on to if it goes beyond the privacy of your own heart.

7. Relish the release. The sense of peace feels so good.

Teach your children the value of forgiveness. It can change everyones' lives for the better.

Random Act of Kindness: Day 6

December 6, 2009

I have found that it is very difficult to achieve a "Random Act of Kindness" every day. You must be very mindful of the needs around you. I hope this month will teach me to be more aware of those needs. Today I saw a child drop a cup and paper on the ground. I just picked up the cup and paper and put it in the trash can. Please teach you children not to litter and to clean up after themselves. It is a very important life lesson.

Dreams Really Do Come True!!!!!

Dreams really do come true! Just ask Susan Boyle. She was a woman living alone in a small European village. She sang as a child, but stepped out of her comfort zone and went before a television audience that doubted her abilities by simply looking at her. When she opened her mouth and sang, she brought them to tears and melted their hearts.

Last week her CD was released and out-sold every other CD released!!! Congratulations to Susan Boyle who can teach all of us that "Dreams Do Come True", but you have to have the courage to "ACT ON THE DREAM" What lesson is there for our children? Teach them to dream big and then go after the dream and let no one or anything get in the way. D...R...E...A...M. Now the work begins!!!!!!!!!

Random Act of Kindness: Day 5

December 5, 2009

I went to Wal-Mart today to get a birthday present for my grand-daughter. A woman was in front of the store ringing a bell for the Salvation Army. I gave her $5. I hope someone will benefit from that small gift. Remember the Salvation Army or other worthwhile charities during the holidays.

Alabama Football!!!!!!

Alabama Football, how great can it be?

The Crimson Tide and Nick Sabon

Will abide side by side, get it done

And have fun , as they lead the team to weekly

victories!

Alabama Football, how great can it be?

The tailgate is special and always the best,

with great food and great company,

While their team makes national history never stopping to rest!!!

Alabama Football, how great can it be?

Your defense is the best,

Not letting them score or rest,

Always holding the offensive line,

is the key!

Alabama Football, how great can it be?

The offense much improved.

The quarterback can really throw and move

The ball down the field for all to see!

Alabama Football, how great can it be?

And there's number 22,

the player who scoring for me and you,

As the Heisman he almost can see.

Alabama Football, how great can it be?

No greater than number 1

Your fans are smiling in the Alabama sun,

watching you winning brings cheers and sets hearts free!

Alabama football, how great can it be?

Today fighting Florida is always the way

To be the greatest that will ever play

Alabama win the championship TODAY!!!!!!!!

By: Debra E. West

Random Act of Kindness: Day 4

December 4, 2009

I went to a local restaurant and left the waitress a 25% tip for the meal and service. I know she will appreciate it because waiters and waitresses depend on tips. They only make about $3.00 per hour. So, when you eat out, just be mindful of how much you tip. If your service is very good or outstanding, tip your waiter or waitress at least 15%-30% or more. They will remember you!!!!

A Special Holiday Card

This is the time of holiday cheer! I don't care if you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, or Kwanzaa, it is a time to enjoy family, faith, and friends. Many of us send out holiday cards during this time. What if we got our children to make cards or sent one of our cards we usually send at this time to the wonderful people who have sacrificed so much for our country. When making out you list this year please include the following:

A Recovering American Soldier

c/o Walter Reed Army Medical Center

6900 Georgia Avenue, N.W.

Washington, DC 20307-5001

When sending out your holiday card, take the time to teach your child how to address an envelope, including return address, and stamp. It will become a good learning experience along with teaching them to reach out to others. Have a blessed holiday season and remember to try to be mindful of doing a "Random Act of Kindness", for the month of December.

Random Act of Kindness: Day 3

December 3, 2009

Our School, The Academy For Academics & Arts, in Huntsville, Alabama, is putting on a large schoolwide production, Mr. Grumpy's Toy Shoppe. The children preschool-8Th grade including our special needs students participate in this wonderful musical. In all there are over 400 children in full costumes and makeup. Every teacher, administrator, and almost every parent make this happen for 10 sold-out shows. There is a small minority of students that are working backstage, lights, props, sound, and making sure the actors are onstage. These students don't get the recognition that some of the others students get. Today I saw one young man working backstage and thanked him for his hard work and dedication to his job. I told him what a difference he makes every performance and the show would not go on without his important contribution. I could see a change in his expression and huge smile on his face. I hope he realizes this show could not be without his professional contribution.

Global Family

According to an article written by Melody Warnick, in the November 2009 "Ladies Home Journal", exploring the world with your family is fun and enlightening. Introducing your kids to different cultures teaches them to be open-minded about people's differences. Melody Warnick has some good ideas to help your family get started.

1. Eat different countries culinary dishes - pizza from Italy, pitas from Egypt, chicken curry from India and your kids will be inspired to widen their global eating experiences. You can get exotic cuisine at home: http://www.spatulatta.com/ , the online kids' cooking site.

2. Make a date to attend an international children's festival, where Croatian folk dancers, Japanese storyteller and Zimbabwean musicians can perform side by side; Pittsburgh, Seattle, Philadelphia and other cities host such art festivals annually. Or hunt in your newspaper for local cultural events.

3. Study a foreign language together, which has been shown to boost kids' performance on reading and math test. start small by writing foreign words for everyday objects on index cards and taping them around the house. Check out www.googlecom/translate to convert English into 42 languages, including Arabic, Chinese and Lithuanian.

4. Make a foreign friend. It is a digital world, but snail-mail pen pals are safer for kids- and getting a letter wit exotic stamps is an old-fashioned thrill. Try a reliable pen pal organization, like Student Letter Exchange, http://www.pen-pal.com/ , a U.S. based service that matches kids 8 and up with potential pals in other countries.

5. Meet your ancestors. It is fun to trace your family tree to its cross-cultural roots with a site like http://www.ancestry.com/ . You might just learn a thing or two about your heritage too.