Last night, I took a very special 6-year-old, Ella, out for dinner to I-HOP. This was a long-overdue “birthday” outing, as her mom suggests to me it is sometimes more fun for her to receive these outings from me than another wrapped gift of an outfit or toy. And, I agree. And, I-HOP had just opened last fall around the time of Ella’s birthday so I made her a little card promising her a “girl’s time at I-HOP.”
I had forgotten how insightful Ella was, as I haven’t got to spend as much time with her as I used to now that she is in school and involved in other activities and we have moved to opposite ends of town where we both used to live in the central part of town. She also reminded me the main reason it took us six months to get together for our outing is “because I go on too many trips!” Yes, she has that one right!
As we were driving down Ashland Ave., we went right by Ashland United Methodist Church, where we both attend. She said in a proud little voice, “That’s my church!” I told her that was my church too, and asked if she remembered seeing me there sometimes. She said, sometimes, but she goes to the “middle church and there are lots of people there.” She was right again! That’s when the contemporary service is and they have great uplifting music and it is way more packed than either of the traditional services. Last week, I wanted to go to a traditional Palm Sunday service, so I went to “late church” and it was great, so I asked Ella if during the “middle church” last Sunday all the kids waved palm branches down the aisle and she said indeed they did, and proceeded to tell me the Easter story she learned in Sunday school.
Ella explained that Easter is when Jesus comes back from the dead, because he died for our sins and went to Heaven, but Easter Sunday is when he comes back to life. But only Jesus comes back to life here on Earth. When people die they don’t come back to life until they get to Heaven.
Well put Ella! I’d say her parents, grandparents and Sunday School teachers get big kudos for that explanation. I couldn't explain the Easter story in in three sentences any simpler than that myself. Happy Easter, readers and remember the real reason for the Season!
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Monday, March 29, 2010
Make a diffference. . .EVERYDAY
The radio station that I listen to each and everyday features Mondays as “Make a difference Monday” and listeners are encouraged to call in and share how someone has made a difference in their lives over the weekend, or how they have had been a positive influence or role model in someone else’s life. I love hearing these stories of inspiration, and they have often become ways I’ve tried to make a difference in someone else’s life too.
But, here’s a thought. . .let’s make a difference EVERYDAY! I know that is really pushing the nice-o-meter, even for a person like me who claims not to be so nice. But all it really takes is a smile and saying hello to someone. That’s it. You could go above and beyond and hold the door, or buy the coffee for the person behind you in the Starbucks drive-thru. But a simple smile and hello is often a really good start. And, it will make people wonder what you are up to.
As a follow up to an earlier blog, tomorrow I take my volunteer application down to the Grace House, along with a huge bag of clothing (I had no idea I had so many clothes), some luggage and more purses. And, I hope to hang out and actually start helping around the place. And I’m going to take some of your suggestions and take some hotel samples down there too. I always saved them for my guest bathroom, but let’s face it, I have enough saved up to have guests every night for the next 3 years, and there are people that actually need these items.
So, let me know how you are going or how you did make a difference recently! I love reading your comments. They are so inspiring to me. They make a difference, and isn’t that why we’re here…
But, here’s a thought. . .let’s make a difference EVERYDAY! I know that is really pushing the nice-o-meter, even for a person like me who claims not to be so nice. But all it really takes is a smile and saying hello to someone. That’s it. You could go above and beyond and hold the door, or buy the coffee for the person behind you in the Starbucks drive-thru. But a simple smile and hello is often a really good start. And, it will make people wonder what you are up to.
As a follow up to an earlier blog, tomorrow I take my volunteer application down to the Grace House, along with a huge bag of clothing (I had no idea I had so many clothes), some luggage and more purses. And, I hope to hang out and actually start helping around the place. And I’m going to take some of your suggestions and take some hotel samples down there too. I always saved them for my guest bathroom, but let’s face it, I have enough saved up to have guests every night for the next 3 years, and there are people that actually need these items.
So, let me know how you are going or how you did make a difference recently! I love reading your comments. They are so inspiring to me. They make a difference, and isn’t that why we’re here…
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Back to the "W"
Last week I addressed the Global 4-H Conference in Kansas City, for about the fifth or sixth year. The conference is geared toward high school students and focuses on career exploration. I remember going to it myself as a young 4-H member from Northwest Kansas, and this year, I had about 32 youth from Kansas, Missouri, Arkansas and Oklahoma in my group.
Normally I give a two-hour presentation on Ag Journalism and Public Relations; but since my role at the Association changed slightly in August, I felt it somewhat hypocritical of me to talk only about journalism since I primarily focus my efforts on event planning and show management--still aspects of PR. So I made new slides, titled the "ABCs of Public Relations, Ag Journalism & Event Planning". I had at least one slide for each letter of the alphabet, and by the time I got to "W" I was running out of creativity. But my talk isn't just about career development, it's about personal development too, and I even talk about goal setting and have the individuals set short, medium and long range S.M.A.R.T. goals.
But, back to the "W". I made a slide about Words that always Work--you know the ones I'm talking about--Please, Thank you, How can I help. Well, this week I have received several thank you
notes in the mail from these kids, and here are just a few excerpts from them:
"You really helped me because I want to do journalism, but never knew what it took. Now I know & I'm very glad that you came and helped me understand the things. Thank you."
"I learned a lot about of this workshop that I can use in my future career. You are a very talented and educated person and thank you for being involved in the 4-H Global Summit."
"It was so full of fun & info. It was the best workshop in my 3 years of coming to the KCGC!"
And, speaking of "Words that always Work" I would like to give a huge shout out to all those who read this blog regularly or are reading for the first time, encourage me in my writing and other endeavors and support me in all I do! I know I don't say it often enough, but thank you!
If you are reading this now, you have made a difference in my life at some point, and I appreciate you.
Normally I give a two-hour presentation on Ag Journalism and Public Relations; but since my role at the Association changed slightly in August, I felt it somewhat hypocritical of me to talk only about journalism since I primarily focus my efforts on event planning and show management--still aspects of PR. So I made new slides, titled the "ABCs of Public Relations, Ag Journalism & Event Planning". I had at least one slide for each letter of the alphabet, and by the time I got to "W" I was running out of creativity. But my talk isn't just about career development, it's about personal development too, and I even talk about goal setting and have the individuals set short, medium and long range S.M.A.R.T. goals.
But, back to the "W". I made a slide about Words that always Work--you know the ones I'm talking about--Please, Thank you, How can I help. Well, this week I have received several thank you
notes in the mail from these kids, and here are just a few excerpts from them:"You really helped me because I want to do journalism, but never knew what it took. Now I know & I'm very glad that you came and helped me understand the things. Thank you."
"I learned a lot about of this workshop that I can use in my future career. You are a very talented and educated person and thank you for being involved in the 4-H Global Summit."
"It was so full of fun & info. It was the best workshop in my 3 years of coming to the KCGC!"
And, speaking of "Words that always Work" I would like to give a huge shout out to all those who read this blog regularly or are reading for the first time, encourage me in my writing and other endeavors and support me in all I do! I know I don't say it often enough, but thank you!
If you are reading this now, you have made a difference in my life at some point, and I appreciate you.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Me, in ten words
I felt the need to express myself today. It is rainy and gloomy here in Northwest Missouri, and that isn't really anything to write about; who wants to read about the weather? So, I saw this on a blog I follow, which a friend who knows I like to be inspired shared with me. (Thanks, Nate) Caroline described herself in ten words.
That's right friends. I'm going to describe how I feel at this very moment on Wednesday, March 24, 2010 in 10 words. Then, I'm going home to grill a steak and some veggies.
1~Stressed
2~Blessed
3~Exhausted
4~Organized
5~Passionate
6~Compassionate
7~Alone
8~Focused
9~Committed
10~Content
That's me in a nutshell. Take me or leave me! Now, I'd like to see you describe yourselves in ten words. It isn't as easy task.
That's right friends. I'm going to describe how I feel at this very moment on Wednesday, March 24, 2010 in 10 words. Then, I'm going home to grill a steak and some veggies.
1~Stressed
2~Blessed
3~Exhausted
4~Organized
5~Passionate
6~Compassionate
7~Alone
8~Focused
9~Committed
10~Content
That's me in a nutshell. Take me or leave me! Now, I'd like to see you describe yourselves in ten words. It isn't as easy task.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Not in my town
Call me naive. Call me sheltered. But, who would have thought that homelessness existed in my town? That's right folks; here in St. Joe, Mo., population near 74,000 there is a homeless epidemic. I guess I am naive. Growing up in rural America, the only time I saw homeless people was when I went to the National Western Stock Show in Denver, and I never really associated St. Joe with the "big city" as it is so spread out and friendly. However tonight, I was exposed to another side of town.
For the past few months I have been on a personal cleaning spree that started with packing to move to my new digs last fall. I am not one to have patience with having a yard sale although wouldn't Grandma Raymer LOVE that if I did! Nor do I feel I have the time. But I do think I have some pretty good "stuff". So my friend at work, Sara, told me about the Grace House, a place downtown that was looking for donated items for St. Joe's needy. At the time, needy didn't equal homeless in my little brain.
I have taken several car loads of clothes, blankets, sheets, towels, dishes, purses, shoes, pots and pans down to the Grace House on Saturdays that I'm home, and have always left in awe with the number of folks in there picking out items. Tonight, with assistance (muscles and use of pickup), Don Laughlin and I took my loveseat and living room chairs to the Grace House, in anticipation of my very first "new" furniture that I purchased that will be delivered next week. The coordinator recognized me, asked me what church I attended, and said, "God Bless You!" with a smile, as she had just given away her last two sofas, and had other families in need. Then, I told her I had more clothes and shoes at home, and that is when Don's interest was sparked. He asked if she accepted men's clothing. Then, she started talking about the homeless, and how they needed "sturdy men's jeans" and "men's shoes or boots with good soles" because summer was coming and the homeless would be walking and sleeping near the river (Missouri) to stay cool. WHAT? That is when I acted calm and cool, and not so naive. I know I wrote about the homeless in Denver in January, but we're talking about the town I live in! I know life can be bad; I've seen some tough St. Joe neighborhoods in my other volunteering, but to sleep on the streets?!? I sure hope any of you readers know if your life ever gets that bad, you can always come stay with me!
So, now I have a new passion. Next Tuesday, and the Tuesdays and Saturdays I'm not traveling for the Association or for my own enjoyment, you might find me at 5th and Edmond. You might just find me at the Grace House. I have to apply to be a volunteer first. (I hope they accept me!) But, I really feel this is a great step to my calling that I've been searching for--helping others.
Next time you think, "not in my town" or "not in my lifetime" take a look around. You'll be suprised to what you might find. I was.
For the past few months I have been on a personal cleaning spree that started with packing to move to my new digs last fall. I am not one to have patience with having a yard sale although wouldn't Grandma Raymer LOVE that if I did! Nor do I feel I have the time. But I do think I have some pretty good "stuff". So my friend at work, Sara, told me about the Grace House, a place downtown that was looking for donated items for St. Joe's needy. At the time, needy didn't equal homeless in my little brain.
I have taken several car loads of clothes, blankets, sheets, towels, dishes, purses, shoes, pots and pans down to the Grace House on Saturdays that I'm home, and have always left in awe with the number of folks in there picking out items. Tonight, with assistance (muscles and use of pickup), Don Laughlin and I took my loveseat and living room chairs to the Grace House, in anticipation of my very first "new" furniture that I purchased that will be delivered next week. The coordinator recognized me, asked me what church I attended, and said, "God Bless You!" with a smile, as she had just given away her last two sofas, and had other families in need. Then, I told her I had more clothes and shoes at home, and that is when Don's interest was sparked. He asked if she accepted men's clothing. Then, she started talking about the homeless, and how they needed "sturdy men's jeans" and "men's shoes or boots with good soles" because summer was coming and the homeless would be walking and sleeping near the river (Missouri) to stay cool. WHAT? That is when I acted calm and cool, and not so naive. I know I wrote about the homeless in Denver in January, but we're talking about the town I live in! I know life can be bad; I've seen some tough St. Joe neighborhoods in my other volunteering, but to sleep on the streets?!? I sure hope any of you readers know if your life ever gets that bad, you can always come stay with me!
So, now I have a new passion. Next Tuesday, and the Tuesdays and Saturdays I'm not traveling for the Association or for my own enjoyment, you might find me at 5th and Edmond. You might just find me at the Grace House. I have to apply to be a volunteer first. (I hope they accept me!) But, I really feel this is a great step to my calling that I've been searching for--helping others.
Next time you think, "not in my town" or "not in my lifetime" take a look around. You'll be suprised to what you might find. I was.
Friday, March 19, 2010
Who really benefits?
Once again the Big Brothers/Big Sisters Program (BB/BS) continues to bless and amaze me! As a "big" I know I'm supposed to be mentoring my "little" but wow--these kids put life into such perspective. Each time I'm with my little I feel like I'm the one getting benefiting from the program.
I know I write about BB/BS a lot, but I am so passionate about it! You might recall from an earlier post that my first "little" Melanie moved away, and broke my heart; the good news is I got her address today just in time to send her a birthday card next week! YEAH!
And, the other bit of good news is I was re-matched with my second "little" Kat, short for Kathleen. Tonight was our 4th meeting, and I took her to my house for the first time. Her eyes got big as saucers when we walked into my modest home and she wanted to know how many people lived there and why I didn't have pets. How do you explain to someone who shares a one-bedroom home with 5 people that one person lives in three-bedroom home? It was awkward...especially when I had just finished the talk on how we can't do an activity that costs money every week like we had the first three weeks, because in her eyes I was "rich."
Now, just to set the record straight, I am not a gourmet cook. I can make some pretty killer grilled meat and veggies; and a few other items, and I love to bake. And, I mainly cook on weekends when I have time. Tonight I had put in 10 hours at the office, picked up Kat, and driven home with the thought of spaghetti or tacos. She chose spaghetti, and for tonight it was Ragu in the jar and some pasta. She ate two helpings like it was the best food she'd ever had! Then, we played Yahtzee, where she whooped me both games, and we headed back to town. She explained that her Mom was going to meet us because she had just got done at her cousin's 10th birthday party. WHOA!! I asked her why she hadn't rescheduled with me to go to her cousin's party, and her reply, "Well, we're family too. You're my big sister." If that doesn't melt your heart, nothing will.
On the way back to town with the sleet hitting the windshield, she asked if I had ever been to Hawaii, and I told her no, but I would like to go there someday when I was married. She didn't miss a beat, "Maybe I can come with you." I just had to smile. I told her Hawaii was a lot more fun when you get out of college! (at least that is what I've heard)
So, once again, I wonder who is benefiting from this big/little relationship? Sure Kat gets to do cool things with me like go to the Lipizzaner Stallions (which I discovered I'm allergic to), paint ceramics, go ice skating and eat McDonalds. But I get to do those things with her and am reminded to count EVERY blessing, both large and small and never, ever take anything for granted. I think I'm coming out ahead on this deal.
I know I write about BB/BS a lot, but I am so passionate about it! You might recall from an earlier post that my first "little" Melanie moved away, and broke my heart; the good news is I got her address today just in time to send her a birthday card next week! YEAH!
And, the other bit of good news is I was re-matched with my second "little" Kat, short for Kathleen. Tonight was our 4th meeting, and I took her to my house for the first time. Her eyes got big as saucers when we walked into my modest home and she wanted to know how many people lived there and why I didn't have pets. How do you explain to someone who shares a one-bedroom home with 5 people that one person lives in three-bedroom home? It was awkward...especially when I had just finished the talk on how we can't do an activity that costs money every week like we had the first three weeks, because in her eyes I was "rich." Now, just to set the record straight, I am not a gourmet cook. I can make some pretty killer grilled meat and veggies; and a few other items, and I love to bake. And, I mainly cook on weekends when I have time. Tonight I had put in 10 hours at the office, picked up Kat, and driven home with the thought of spaghetti or tacos. She chose spaghetti, and for tonight it was Ragu in the jar and some pasta. She ate two helpings like it was the best food she'd ever had! Then, we played Yahtzee, where she whooped me both games, and we headed back to town. She explained that her Mom was going to meet us because she had just got done at her cousin's 10th birthday party. WHOA!! I asked her why she hadn't rescheduled with me to go to her cousin's party, and her reply, "Well, we're family too. You're my big sister." If that doesn't melt your heart, nothing will.
On the way back to town with the sleet hitting the windshield, she asked if I had ever been to Hawaii, and I told her no, but I would like to go there someday when I was married. She didn't miss a beat, "Maybe I can come with you." I just had to smile. I told her Hawaii was a lot more fun when you get out of college! (at least that is what I've heard)
So, once again, I wonder who is benefiting from this big/little relationship? Sure Kat gets to do cool things with me like go to the Lipizzaner Stallions (which I discovered I'm allergic to), paint ceramics, go ice skating and eat McDonalds. But I get to do those things with her and am reminded to count EVERY blessing, both large and small and never, ever take anything for granted. I think I'm coming out ahead on this deal.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Four hours, three tourists, one stop
Last weekend, my friend and co-worker Robin and I headed East for the Mid-Atlantic Junior Angus Classic, where we and two NJAA directors helped with this junior show at Harrisonburg, VA. It was typical MAJAC weather--cold and damp, but we still had a great show evaluated by my friend Alan Miller. The show was over in good time on Sunday, and we dropped Chris Cassady off at Dulles Airport. Robin, Andrew Rogen and I had time to kill as we didn't fly out til EARLY on Monday morning. Andrew asked how far we were from Washington D.C., so we punched 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. into the Garmin and in less than 20 minutes we were in the heart of D.C., a place none of the three of us had ever been.
We didn't let a little mist in the air or a slight breeze dampen our experience! In a little more than 4 hours we walked 6 miles or so, saw the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, Korean War Memorial, U.S. Capitol (from a distance), the White House, and the Treasury Department. And, I didn't even get honked at, which is better than I can say during Robin's and my drive to Whitestone Farm on Thursday, but that's another blog...
Here are Robin and I in front of the Washington Monument, both a little more enthusiastic about the "longer" daylight hours that daylight saving time provided!
And me, at the Washington Monument with the Lincoln Memorial in the far background. It was a damp, windy day, but we were three tourists with nothing but time, enthusiasm and cameras!
Honest Abe was huge! I was so glad to get to see these monuments and memorials at night with the lights on them. If the weather was going to be rainy and damp, might as well look for some positive!
I loved this shot of the flag, Washington memorial, and fountain. Once I get a subject, I could shoot it all day (you should see my Eiffel Tower pictures).
This Korean War Soldiers Memorial was very moving. It was so dark by the time we got there, it was almost like we were among the soldiers. A great reminder that freedom is indeed never free.
Finally, our parking garage was right near the National Press Building, and well there is still a little journalist left in me, so I couldn't resist one more posed shot!
Who knew that three friends could have so much free fun in one place in four short hours? I definitely will head back to D.C. in the near future, and once again was reminded that we must live each day to the fullest and take advantage of every opportunity! I mean, I could have sat in the Fairfield Inn and watched the March Madness selection, Facebooked and did my show report, but how much fun would that blog have been for you all to read?!?!
We didn't let a little mist in the air or a slight breeze dampen our experience! In a little more than 4 hours we walked 6 miles or so, saw the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, Korean War Memorial, U.S. Capitol (from a distance), the White House, and the Treasury Department. And, I didn't even get honked at, which is better than I can say during Robin's and my drive to Whitestone Farm on Thursday, but that's another blog...
Here are Robin and I in front of the Washington Monument, both a little more enthusiastic about the "longer" daylight hours that daylight saving time provided!
And me, at the Washington Monument with the Lincoln Memorial in the far background. It was a damp, windy day, but we were three tourists with nothing but time, enthusiasm and cameras!
Honest Abe was huge! I was so glad to get to see these monuments and memorials at night with the lights on them. If the weather was going to be rainy and damp, might as well look for some positive!
I loved this shot of the flag, Washington memorial, and fountain. Once I get a subject, I could shoot it all day (you should see my Eiffel Tower pictures).
This Korean War Soldiers Memorial was very moving. It was so dark by the time we got there, it was almost like we were among the soldiers. A great reminder that freedom is indeed never free.
Finally, our parking garage was right near the National Press Building, and well there is still a little journalist left in me, so I couldn't resist one more posed shot!
Who knew that three friends could have so much free fun in one place in four short hours? I definitely will head back to D.C. in the near future, and once again was reminded that we must live each day to the fullest and take advantage of every opportunity! I mean, I could have sat in the Fairfield Inn and watched the March Madness selection, Facebooked and did my show report, but how much fun would that blog have been for you all to read?!?!
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