Gift #30 - March 28th

My final gift was a gift I never thought I would every make.  On Monday, I said good-bye to a former boss and mentor.  He died suddenly last week.  I couldn't believe the news when I heard it.  It didn't make sense; it felt so random.  He was only 50 years old.  I spent last week thinking about the role this man played in my life as a young professional.  I was only 18 went I went to work for him.  So much of who I became and what I went on to do was because of the time I spent working for him.  I worked for him for six years...a lifetime at that stage in your life!  When I went to work for him, his wife was pregnant with their first son.  On Monday, sitting in a packed church, their first born, now almost 18, stood to speak about his father.  I cried.  When I thought I was done, I cried again.  I cried at the loss of a husband.  I cried at the loss of a friend.  And I cried at the loss of a father.  Seeing his boys as young men made my heart ache for them and swell with pride for him at the same time.

When my mentor sold the company he had created (and I worked for), he sent me a paperweight.  He had received the paperweight from a client for one of the company's first successful marketing efforts.  It sat on his uncluttered, tidy desk for as long as I could remember.  It was a treasure to me.  For over a decade I have kept that paperweight and the note he sent with it.  Last week, I opened the bottom drawer of my desk and his note sat there staring at me, right on top.  I decided that my final gift would be to his sons. 

Today, I wrote the boys a letter about my time with their father and what an impact he had on my life.  I also enclosed the paperweight.  No object will ever replace what they lost but I hope when they look at it, they will be warmed by the memories of a man who meant so much to so many.

Each one of us has someone in our past or present that has impacted our lives.  Take a few moments and write them a note. Today.

Gift #29 - March 27th

John & I have a fantastic contractor for various home repair or improvement jobs.  Bobby came to us as a referral and we were very pleased with his work.  He's young, married, and has two small children.  Over the last two years he has done a number of jobs for us.  He has fixed a leaky bathroom sink, repaired foundation walls, built a fence, ran an outdoor outlet, the list goes on and on.  With each job he is on time, neat, and within budget (unless I make a change!).  For those of you who have had to deal with getting these types of jobs done, you know the above mentioned qualities are hard to come by.  If you own an old house like we do, these contractors become like family. 

The more I get to know Bobby the more I realize what a generous person he & his wife are.  I was relaying a recent story to John about how they took in dogs from a deceased relative and provided a home for a teen in need.  John said, "That's really neat.  We should get them a basket of product".  What John means is, I need to go through my stash of promo product vendors give us and share.  What a great idea!  I did a little rummaging and found a few new bottles of men's & women's fragrances along with a few other of the latest-and-greatest products.  John did his magic and put them together in this great basket.  I couldn't decide if I wanted to tell Bobby about my project or if I just wanted to give it to him.  On my way out of the house (he's currently building our front fence), I handed it to him.  I said the gift was for he and his lovely wife.  I told him we appreciated his hard work and we trusted him which was hard to come by.  He high fived me and smiled.  It was a good gift giving day.

Gift #28 - March 26th

Several months ago I noticed one of Anna's teachers, "Ms. J", reading a book by financial guru Suze Orman.  I was surprised and impressed with her interest.  I didn't say anything to her but filed it away.  Knowing I was a CPA, a few weeks ago, Ms. J asked me about some of her personal financial strategies.  We visited a while.  She asked me if I had every read any of her books (which I had) and mentioned she wanted to read more of her.  So, I went to my personal library and pulled out The Road to Wealth by Suze Orman.  The next day, I gave the book to Ms. J.  I told her to read & enjoy it; when she was done, pass it on to someone.  :)

Gift #27 - March 23rd

Oh, today was so much fun!  I got to take my sweet Anna with me on this gift expedition. 

Background:  Many of my friends are CPA's.  Over the last few weeks I have seen comments on Facebook from them like "The dark sky matches the circles under my eyes" or "I'm exhausted and it's only Monday".  I remember the feeling...public accounting is demanding and this time of year is tough.  The longs days are starting to take their toll and the weather is turning nice which makes it even tougher to be inside.

The gift:  I decided to go to one of my favorite bakeries and have them make cookies that look like the sun and write "4/18" on them.  April 17th is the tax filing deadline and a day of celebration for my CPA friends.  For those of you that think I made a mistake, you are right April 15th is the normal tax filing deadline but this year it is the 17th.  Which means, on April 18th my friends will have another tax season BEHIND them!!  (Also, if you think I have a pastry addiction because I have visited this bakery 3 times for gifts, you are right too.  Pastries are my weakness...I don't eat them a lot because I can't just eat one).  Ok...back to the gift!

Anna & I picked up the cookies and I penned a little poem on the box top - Sunshine, sunshine I miss you!  Sunshine, sunshine I long to kiss you!  Sunshine, sunshine the time is near.  Sunshine, sunshine April 18th is almost here! These iced sugar cookies are my absolute favorite.  I knew my friends would love them.  

Anna & I arrived at the office and waited for our friends to start trickling out.  And then they came...one by one.  They liked the cookies but the real gift turned out to be my little toddler who wowed them with her smiles, tutu skirt, and little baby waddle.  In fact, the cookies were just an afterthought!  How funny....I think I could have skipped them all together.  Well, I just got this text picture from my friend so, maybe not!

Gift #26 - March 22nd

With only 5 gifts left I feel like every last one counts!  At the same time, I'm lost for ideas.  My one great idea will be for Gift #27 and I ordered them today (stay tuned!).  When I started thinking about today's gift, I kept going through things I've already done.  This afternoon, I let a few extra cars go in front of me while leaving the mall.  I thought that was a good gift.  Then I thought about leaving a note on the car next to me.  It finally dawned on me that we all have little opportunities every day to give to each other.  So what if you gave this gift yesterday, do it again!

Today I received an email from a cool, kid-centered, creative, eco-friendly, women-owned, Wisconsin based art supply company - Artterro.  The company makes art kits for children from beautiful, quality art materials.  Although the majority of these kits are geared towards children older than Anna, I love staying on top of what they are doing.  Back to the email...Artterro has started a campaign to raise $30,000 by Earth Day.  This goal will help them pay for the next production run at the non-profit Goodwill Industries.  How cool is that?  This is a great company and, as my gift today, I want to share and promote them with my readers.  So, check out the link, order a few kits and help support a domestic, earth friendly company!

Gift #25 - March 19th

Some of you may have noticed my "30 Days of Giving" has not always coincided with 30 sequential calendar days.  Yes, it's true, I have skipped a day here and there.  Like yesterday, for example.  It was a busy day.  Up early for church, then to grandparents to pick up baby, back to the house for nap, dishes, laundry, up from nap and on to birthday party.  Back from party, nap again (me too) then up for more clean up, play, baby bath, and dinner.  By the time I remembered, the day had passed.  I hope, dear readers, you are not too disappointed.  Although I set out to do 30 gifts in 30 sequential days it just didn't work out.  For me, it was more important I continue on this project rather than give up the moment I skipped a day.  So, that's my story and I'm sticking to it.  On with Gift #25!

I've been waiting to give this gift for a while.  I dreamed it up one afternoon and thought it was just a fun idea.  I decided to go to the library and put money in the book What to Expect When You Are Expecting.  The idea resonated with me because I love the library and want to support/encourage folks that go there.  Also, I remember the feeling of being a new momma-to-be, reading all the "How-to" books, and feeling excited & overwhelmed.  I thought it would be fun if a momma-to-be opened the book and a crisp bill fell out. 

So, today I went to one of my favorite libraries within the Central Arkansas Library System.  I looked up the location of the book in the online card catalog to find...it was already checked out!  Yikes!  I went to the baby section anyway.  I thought I would find something.  I scanned the rows...there is was...Raising Baby Green: The Earth Friendly Guide to Pregnancy, Childbirth and Baby Care.  What a cool book!  I scanned the contents which mirrored one of my favorite books The Complete Organic Pregnancy and decided this was the book.  I took out a crisp $5 bill and tucked it in along with a little note.  This was a fun little gift anyone could do.  What would you do if you opened your latest library book and money fell out?

Gift #24 - March 17th

Happy St. Patrick's Day!  Today, the Arkansas Sustainability Network hosted a Seed Swap along with Conserving Arkansas Agricultural Heritage.  I've been looking forward to this fun event and couldn't wait to catch up with friends.  I, unfortunately, did not have any seeds to swap.  I did, however, have some tomatoe cages!  My plan was to swap some cages for seeds but later I decided the cages would be my gift for today!  So, that's what I did.  Two cages went home with someone for tomatoes and one went home with someone for pole beans.  Hopefully my gift recipients will remember me come harvest time!

Gift #23 - March 15th

Recently I dug out a few of Anna's old baby clothes to sell at an upcoming consignment market.  It was hard parting with a few of the outfits, but on my quest to live with less "stuff" I carefully selected the special ones to keep.  The host of the market has a lot of rules for consigning clothes...hangers turned "this" way, tags printed "that" way, and so on.  Basically, it takes a lot of time to prepare and sell at these kind of markets...you hope this stuff sells.

During the sale, I went one afternoon to pick up a few items for Anna.  While I was perusing the stuffed racks I noticed many clothes that had fallen off the hanger or were hanging lopsided.  I thought of all those mommas...going through their stack of clothes, remembering when their little girl wore it, deciding to sell the item, preparing them for the market.  Now, here they are, on the floor or hanging crooked.  In comes Gift #23. I decided I would rehang and straighten all the wayword clothes.  Not the whole market, just the racks I was going through. Half way through I started thinking this was a total pain but when I thought about stopping I just couldn't.  Maybe this one dress I rehang belongs to a momma who really needs to sell these clothes?  Maybe there is a momma looking for this pair of pants and can't afford to buy them elsewhere?  I pressed on.  I rehung & straightened 7 racks total.  Us mommas have to help each other....it does take a village people.

Gift #22 March 14th

Today I would like to introduce you to a young non-profit in Conway, Arkansas called City of Hope Outreach (CoHO).  The mission of CoHO is to seek to promote holistic community renewal in under resourced areas through the gospel of Jesus Christ.

The Fletcher Family

I first learned of CoHO in the fall of 2010.  The Administrative Director, Nicolle Fletcher, was our doula at the birth of Anna last year.  Nicolle is an amazing women, fabulous doula and will forever be in of our hearts.  At the time, she & her family had just formalized CoHO.  They had several programs that I thought were just really cool.  One that struck me the most is their Christmas Store.  The Christmas Store is a place where men & women can purchase a box of donated goods for $5.  This allows them the dignity of purchasing gifts but makes the cost affordable.  They also offer tutoring, access to technology, counseling, access to shelter, laundry facilities, the list just goes on and on.  I visited with Nicolle this week for a mini-interview to help readers learn more about CoHO.

1) What inspired you & Phillip to start City of Hope?

Phillip and I started the City of Hope Outreach from a "right turn".  One day Phillip was driving home from his Pulaski County Courthouse job and made a right turn on East Robins instead of the normal left onto our street Bruce St. a block down the road.  It was then he discovered a poverty pocket in Conway.  He then came home and said we are to go to this community and preach the Gospel.  To which I immediately responded, "No we are not!"  We then decided to commit this whole situation to prayer.  It was August 2007 that a woman asked could she pray for me.  Of course I was willing, but before she prayed she told me, "The thing you and your husband have been praying about doing.  The Lord says it is time to do it."  I immediately knew what the Lord was speaking through this woman, because my husband and I had been praying about this community and our involvement.  The following week we started a church plant in that community.  We met outside, set up chairs and worshipped the Lord.  We sought to develop relationships with the people within the community and quickly found that we needed a more holistic approach to meeting the needs of the people we encountered.  It wasn't enough to talk about the love of God, we had to display it and meet people right where they were.  Phillip then picked up a tent and planted himself in the middle of this very broken community for the duration of a weekend.  The plan began to unfold.  Then in 2009 we created a team (a board) and began the work of establishing the non profit that is the City of Hope Outreach.  We gained 501c3 status in 2010.  We still have the church in the community The Church at Oakwood and have since planted a second church, The Church at Oakwood South to expand and further meet the growing needs of people. 

2) What are your biggest rewards?

The rewards have been many and great!  It is very fulfilling to know that my family is living this life for more than just ourselves.  There are men, women and children who have HOPE that once felt hopeless.  The community was once filled with drug dealers, crack whores, child neglect, poor living conditions, families in fear for their own safety but much of that has changed.  I will not pretend that since we have been in the community all of the bad has ceased but crime has decreased, safety has increased, the gospel is being proclaimed and lived out, people are being assisted financially, emotionally, and physically.

3) What are you biggest challenges?

The biggest challenges are always the greatest reward.  It is most challenging to endure with people.  The work that we do is not instantly gratifying.  It takes time, patience, and lots of grace to walk alongside people is various situations.  It is also very challenging to motivate the middle class to care about the under-resourced people in their own backyard, while it is easy for many middle class people to pick up the banner for children and families around the world, they often neglect to see the needs right here at home.  I have to say that is one of the most challenging situations.

4) What have been surprises along the way?

The way the community has embraced us.  We challenge people, we tell the truth and we don't hold back and people respect that.  It is clear that our mission is to serve, love, and give.  However we don't take over we get to know people and we support their ideas and ways to improve the standard of living.

5) What else would you like us to know about City of Hope Outreach?

City of Hope Outreach (CoHO) seeks to promote holistic community renewal through the gospel of Jesus Christ.  

CoHO is in need of funding to continue and expand their mission.  Please consider making a donation today or pledge ongoing support.  You can make a donation here.

Gift #21 - March 13th

Yesterday, my dear friend's sweet cat, Spot, passed away.  Spot had been sick for a while and next month she would have been 16 years old!  This clip art picture looks nothing like her but I liked it because the cat looked happy and at peace.  As a pet parent I understand the love and true companionship of our four-legged friends.  They are always happy to see us.  They forgive us instantly of our transgressions.  They only want to be in our presence.  They don't care what we wear.  They don't care how much money we have.  They don't care if they have new sparkly jazzy collar or an old hand-me-down one.  They love us unconditionally...so honestly and so truly.  For Gift #21, I made a donation to the Humane Society of Pulaski County in Spot's memory.  Thank you Spot for being a wonderful companion to my wonderful friend.  You will be loved and missed forever.

Gift #20 - March 12th

Today is a very special day.  Today my grandfather, were he still living, would have been 100 years old.  Bigdaddy, as us grandchildren called him, was one of the greatest men I have ever known.  He was kind, generous, loving, and always smiling.  He loved basketball, peaches & ice cream, his church & friends.  He adored his wife, my grandmother.  He treasured his two girls, my mother & aunt.  But, he worshiped his grandchildren.  As one of the recipients of his devotion, I can tell you it was one of the purest loves.  It wasn't until I became a mother last year that I really realized how much he loved us.

About the time John & I moved back to Arkansas in 2005, Bigdaddy was ready to leave his home in South Arkansas and move to an assisted living facility.  As hard as this was for him, he was 92 at this point, it was a blessing for me.  Bigdaddy moved to a great home just 15 minutes from me.  Every Sunday, John & I went to see Bigdaddy.  Sometimes we took him out to lunch and sometimes we just hung out in his room.  The times we did take him to lunch, he would always be waiting for us at the door with his best coat & cap on.  I always felt so special that he would dress up for me.  

In 2007, Bigdaddy celebrated his 95th birthday.  Later that summer his health began to decline.  I could tell he was ready, or at least close, to go home.  John & I went for our weekly visit.  At the end of our visit, I grabbed his hand, kissed his cheek, looked in his eyes and said, "You are the greatest grandfather I have ever known".  He smiled and said, "I love you Juli.  You too John".  That was the last time I saw Bigdaddy.

Bigdaddy's church & faith were very important to him.  In honor of his 100th birthday, I sent his church $1 for every year since his birth.  It's a small gift compared to the gift his church was to our family.

It's on days like today that I am reminded that today, this very moment, is what is most important.  Love your friends.  Adore your spouse.  Treasure your children.  And, if you are lucky to have them, worship your grandchildren.

Happy Birthday Bigdaddy!

Gifts #18 & #19

Once again, dear friends, I am behind on my posting.  I am so behind I actually have forgotten one of the gifts I've given!  Must not have been that great, huh?  So, today would have been Gift #20, I'm making it #19.  Ahem.  Moving on.

Gift#18 - Yoga Class

For several years now I have been practing yoga on a regular basis. It has been a great stress reliever for me.  I practiced yoga through my entire 40 weeks of pregnancy and I know it contributed to how great I felt.  For this gift, I decided to gift to a gift giver again.  I gave my yoga teacher one class to give to a new student or an existing student.  Secretly I hope she gives it to someone she meets one day who says they have always wanted to try yoga.  I hope she says, "Well, hey, I have a free class to give someone.  Why don't you use it?".  What if they use the class, feel a connection to the practice, become at peace in their heart, which in turn opens wider?  Then they begin to live lighter on the earth and give to others....you get where I'm going?  Ahh...what if?

Gift #19 - A compliment

This, by far, was my toughest gift.  On Sundays, John & I go to lunch, just the two of us, after church.  Mom & Dad keep the baby and it's our little ritual.  Today it was cold and rainy.  I wanted soup!  As we sat in the restaurant, I saw a mother pick up her infant (maybe 2-3 months old?), strap on her nursing cover and nurse.  Right there IN THE MIDDLE of the restaurant.  She was so elegant, nonchalant, and seemless.  She popped that baby right under the blanket and went about her conversation.  I said to myself, You go girl!.  I never was quite that brave to nurse in public.  I think this was her second baby so maybe you become this skilled on baby #2?  Anyway, as much grief as public nursing women have gotten these days, I wanted to tell her how awesome I thought she was.  But, I thought, that would be totally crazy to walk up to a strange women and say that.  What if she thought I was going to be critical?  What would I say?  How would I say it?  I decided to mention the idea to John.  He would tell me if I was koo-koo.  He didn't, he said, "Do it babe". 

So, as we got up to leave the restaurant, I walked over to her and her family, along with the other family they were dining with.  I said, "Excuse me.  I noticed you breastfeeding and I just wanted to tell you how awesome I think that is.  I just finished weaning my, now, one year old and I was never brave enough to nurse in public.  I just think it's really awesome and I wanted to tell you that".  Although her husband was looking at me like What is going on here?, the mother was beaming while she thanked me.   And the women in the other family they were dining with said "That is so great for you to tell her that".  We all felt so good.  I felt like I had just supported my sister in this incredible journey of motherhood that is often times lonely and difficult.  I felt empowered.  I felt strong.  I felt like a real momma.

Gift #17 - March 6th

Today was my most unusual gift so far! 

Here's the background story...

Several years ago John & I decided that each year we would implement a new "green practice".  One year we started making all our own earth & human-friendly household cleaners.  One year we started composting.  This year we challenged ourselves to not buy paper towels.  We purchase the 8-roll paper towels by Bounty and we wanted one package to last the entire year!  We took the roll off the paper towel holder and put it in the closet.

I realized the other day I had two 8-roll packages in the closet.  Based on our new practice that would last us two years!  So, I decided to give one of the packages away.  I gave the package to a friend who looked at me and said "Are you sure?".  You would have thought I was giving her the keys to my car.  I smiled and confidently said "Yes, I'm sure".  This was a fun gift because not only did I give something, I got rid of something which creates space....oh, how I love space.

And, for those curious readers, it is mid-March and John & I have yet to finish one roll of paper towels!!!

Gift #13, #14, #15, & #16! Whew!

I said, at the beginning of this, I may not post everyday, but I will post.  I have been diligently making my gifts daily but with a little toddler on my hands, posting has been tough.  So...here we go!

Gift #13 - March 1st
John & I made yet another trip to our favorite Mexican restaurant.  I still had one more free dessert coupon.  Instead of giving it to a stranger table, I gave it to the server and asked he give it to the next guest that ordered dessert.  He looked surprised and actually seemed happy to receive it.  He said he would pass it on.  Maybe this was better than giving it to a stranger table because I gave the gift of gift giving?  Hmmm.

Gift #14 - March 2nd
I stopped by one of my favorite bakeries to pick up cookies for a dinner party that night.  My sister & husband suggested I pick up some cookies and give to Anna's teachers at school.  What a great idea!  These ladies are hard working and they treat my baby like their own.  I picked out a few of my favorite - iced sugar cookies - yummy!!  This felt great and I think the teachers appreciated the little sweet treat.

Gift #15 - March 3rd
For this gift I decided to post on Facebook about the upcoming U2Charist at our church (First United Methodist Church).  I had the idea for a while but finally decided to do it.  Why the wait?  Well, my faith is deeply personal and I have never been the type of person to "advertise" my church or activities.  I felt it unauthentic.  Oddly though because one of our duties, if you will, is to "witness".  This has not been easy for me.  Maybe I never belonged to a church where I felt so free to be me as I do at FUMC.  And what a gift this has been for me!  Why not share it?!?  So, I did.  I invited all my friends to come and meet up with John & I.

Gift #16 - March 4th
Today I shared with friends The Oregon Tiger Sanctuary.  A long time friend and mentor serves this sanctuary and asked I share this as one of my gifts.  From their website...

The Oregon Tiger Sanctuary (OTS) is dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of exotic and endangered species.  Created as a safe haven for abused, neglected and abandoned exotic animals, OTS provides a permanent and loving home to many species including tigers, lions, black leopards, cougars, a wide variety of primates as well as numerous domestic dogs and cats.  OTS is also dedicated to educating the human species about the endangered ones of our planet and the issues they face in captivity and in the wild.

I must say, I'm halfway through this project and I'm hitting a wall for ideas.  I really want these gifts to be easy and economical so that anyone can implement them.  It's easy to give monetary gifts.  I've purposely kept my budget small to inspire my ideas to be big!  Any ideas you might have would be appreciated...pass them on!

Gift #12 - February 29th Leap Day!

My friend Stacey sent me a "gift" recommendation to share with everyone some recently published tax tips from the IRS.  While at first this did not sound like a gift, I realized, as a CPA, I take a lot of things for granted.  First, that doing your tax return is fun!  Second, where to go for answers if you get stuck...or for many, WHEN you get stuck.  So, today I am sharing Four Ways to Find Free Tax Help (courtesy of the Internal Revenue Service).

IRS Tax Tip 2011-41, February 28, 2011

The IRS offers free assistance by computer, telephone and in person. The IRS can also help find free tax preparation sites for those who qualify. Here are four great ways you can get the information you need to file your tax return:

1) IRS Website The IRS website at http://www.irs.gov/ is a one-stop shop for a wide array of tax information. You can even prepare and file your federal tax return – for free – through Free File, a service offered by IRS and its partners who make available free tax preparation software and free electronic filing. But you must go through IRS.gov to use Free File. Have some tax questions? Check out 1040 Central on the Individuals page for the latest news. You can even track your refund with Where’s My Refund?.

2) Taxpayer Assistance Centers When you believe your tax issue cannot be handled online or by phone and you want face-to-face assistance, you can find help at a local IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center. Locations, business hours and an overview of services are available at IRS.gov. Just go to the Individuals tab and click on the link for Contact My Local Office in the left tool bar section under IRS Resources.

3) Community Resources Free tax preparation is available through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and Tax Counseling for the Elderly programs in many communities. Volunteer return preparation programs provided through IRS and its partners offer free help in preparing simple tax returns for low-to-moderate-income taxpayers. For a list of the 2011 VITA sites you can visit IRS.gov, or call 800-906-9887. You may also call AARP — the largest TCE participant — at 888-227-7669 (888-AARPNOW) or access http://www.aarp.org/ to find the nearest AARP Tax-Aide site.

4) Telephone Call the IRS Tax Help Line for Individuals, 800-829-1040, to get answers to your federal tax questions. To hear pre-recorded messages covering various tax topics or check on the status of your refund, call 800-829-4477. TTY/TDD users may call 800-829-4059 to ask tax questions or to order forms and publications. To order free forms, instructions and publications call 800-829-3676.

For more information about free services provided by the IRS, review Publication 910, IRS Guide to Free Tax Services available at http://www.irs.gov/ or by calling 800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676).

Gift #10 & #11 February 27th & 28th

Yesterday John & I were driving back from Dallas so I didn't get a lot of opportunities for gifts but I did carry with me my "You are unique and special" cards (see Gift #7).  At one quick stop, I jumped out to quickly tuck one in a parked car.  As random as this felt I wondered if the universe had aligned perfectly, winds blew the right direction and fate had parked that car right there, at that moment because that person, and no other, needed that note.  I wonder.

Today was really fun...my sweet husband is still on vacation so we decided to do something we haven't done in a long time - see a movie!  We were lucky enough to have two free movie passes so we were super excited.  As we talked about my gift today we decided I needed to buy a movie ticket or popcorn for someone.  Both good ideas.  As we approached the theater I discovered there was hardly a person in sight.  Only one person selling tickets, maybe a few folks in the parking lot.  No one in line!  Duh Juli - it's 1:00pm on a Tuesday!  Well, something will work out I concluded.  And indeed it did.  As John handed our passes to the clerk an older gentleman and his wife walked up behind us.  John saw them too.  I quitely said to John, "Buy our tickets and I'm going to give them our passes".  He agreed and turned back to the cashier.  I turned to the gentlemen and asked if he was going to see a movie today.  After I asked the question I immediately felt stupid - of course he was going to see a movie Juli...he was in the ticket line!  Anyway, he said yes.  When he spoke he reminded me of Morgan Freeman and instantly I felt endeared to him.  I handed him the two movie passes and told him to enjoy.  He looked surprised and thanked me.  As I walked off the gentleman smiled and thanked John too.  John grabbed my hand as we walked through the theater.  He had a smile on his face.  This gift wasn't just the gift of movie passes.  It was the gift of love that comes when two people give together.  I'm so thankful I have my wonderful husband and best friend on this journey.

Gift #9 - February 26th Do-over! :)

Today after posting for yesterday I decided the only way to make amends was to buy a bunch of lottery tickets.  My aunt & uncle were taking us to dinner tonight, so my opportunity would present itself again.  We pulled into the gas station and pulled out with five lottery tickets in hand!

Oddly enough, tonight we went to the restaurant that had such a long wait last night.  Of course, at 5pm, most restaurants are easy to walk right in to.  In we go, down we sat.  Of course, we had to make a small detour to the displayed saddles (see photo right).  Anna already has her heart set on a lovely pony so I thought I would let her try out a saddle, even if it was Western.  Ahem.  Moving on...

Our server, Matt, greeted us.  He was young and I envisioned him as a starving college student just trying to make a better life for himself.  When the check came, I tucked the lottery tickets in the folder.  I handed the folder to him and said "We bought some lottery tickets before going to dinner.  There are a few in there for you.  The drawings are between now and Wednesday".  He smiled, said thanks, then "awesome".  One of my favorite words!  My uncle grabbed my shoulder and said "He smiled Juli".  Yes, he smiled and so did we.  :)

Gift #9 - February 25th

I took a fantastic business communication course in college that taught me, when writing, get to your point quickly.  So, dear readers, I will do just that.  I'm greedy and weak.  There I said it.  Now that we've cleared the air..let me tell you about Saturday's gift.

The family & I took a little road trip to Dallas to visit with our extended family.  We are staying with my aunt & uncle who offered to watch the girls while us adults went out for dinner.  Since we both have a young child, this was a rare treat.  We agreed!  Knowing we were going to have a night out meant we would have the opportunity to tip.  John agreed this would be perfect to leave a tip and a lottery ticket.  At our next pit stop, I purchased one Texas lottery ticket.  The estimated cash value was $4.4 million.

That night we had a late start getting out the door for dinner.  We had to feed kids, bathe kids, read books, prep bottles, find a missing lovey - well, you get the point.  My aunt called in a "call ahead" for us at a local Mexican restaurant.  Perfect! Out the door we went.  When we arrived there was still a 45 minute wait.  I was tired, hungry, and had already helped myself to an adult beverage.  So, we called another restaurant which had only a 10 minute wait.  We decided to make a beeline for them.  Stay with me people, I'll get to my point. 

It was after 8:00pm by the time we got to our second restaurant and settled in to meet the server that was going to be the lucky receipient of my lottery ticket.  The lottery drawing was at 7:00pm.  Do you see where I'm going?  Yes, that's right - at that moment, I could possibly be holding a $4 million dollar lottery ticket!  What should I do?  Should I check the ticket real quick then give it to him?  NO!  I couldn't make a gift of a losing lottery ticket.  And, friends, I can just tell you I wasn't about to hand someone a winning lottery ticket either.  Maybe I should not check it and give it to him?  Then, I would never know.  Argh!  What to do?!?!?  I decided to do nothing.  I didn't check the ticket and I didn't give it to him.  So, on Saturday, I did not make a gift. 

I'm still working through my emotions on this.  I feel greedy, I feel weak.  But, as I type, my resolve to make an even better gift in the coming days is building.  Stay tuned.  :)

Gift #8 - February 24th

Today I'd like to share with you an informational & impactful book written by Little Rock resident, Anne Cauthron, titled The Bottom Line: How to Be an Effective Multi-unit Manager.  I recently caught up with Anne to find out a little more about her book and inspiration.

What inspired you to write The Bottom Line?
Alana Tyson -- She is an incredible life coach.  She counseled me to write down my "bucket list" of 101 things I wanted to accomplish or experience before I left this body.  I am truly so blessed that I don't think along those terms - I am content where I am.  I diligently numbered three pieces of paper from 1-101, but was only able to come up with 15.  Having a book published was one of the fifteen. :)

Who could benefit from reading your book?
Even though "The Bottom Line" is specifically written for current or developing multi-unit managers, anyone who manages people will benefit from "The Bottom Line".  The first three chapters discuss effective management beliefs and practices.

What are three things readers will take away from reading your book?
1.  Do the right thing every day and sales and profits will come.
2.  People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care.
3.  Embrace and practice servant leadership - the rewards for your team and for you are many.

What else can you tell us about The Bottom Line?
"The Bottom Line" is an easy read, but full of impact.  There is no cotton candy syndrome - 10% sugar and 90% air!

Thank you Anne for writing such a much needed book!  Currently Amazon.com is out of stock (it's flying off the shelves people!!).  For 30 Days of Giving readers, Anne is offering to sign all book purchases and ship for free!!!  If you would like to contact Anne, please email her at annecauthron@yahoo.com.

(My gift today was to support and promote women in their journey of joy.  May we all take out three pieces of paper, number 1-100, then take action like Anne!!).

Gift #7 - February 23rd

My friend, Antonio, was walking through the streets of New York City when someone handed him a note that read You are a beautiful and special person.  Antonio said it actually made him feel wonderful that day.  He suggested I do something like that as my gift.  I agreed!

Today I made three notes (typed but with the fun handwritten font) that read You are unique and special.  What makes you special is that you ARE unique.  Don't compare yourself to others because there is no one else like you in this world.  Wow!  How cool is that?  You don't know me and I don't know you.  But, I do know there is something special about each one of us.  Each day for 30 days I am giving a gift to someone.  Today I chose you.  Today I wanted to tell you that you are an amazing being!!  Celebrate it!  Have a wonderful day!  I then personally signed it with a little smilie face.

I needed to run an errand today so when I pulled into the parking lot of the store I surveyed the spaces, looking for someone to park next to.  I pulled in next to a white mini-van.  I popped out of the drivers side and quickly tucked the note into the wiper blades.  A few minutes later, while I was perusing my favorite organization store, I looked up and saw the white mini-van pulling out.  Inside was not just one person but three!!  Hopefully that note meant something to at least one of them.

This exercise today was a gift to me too.  Just writing the words reminded me of the tendency we have to compare what we're doing, or not doing, to others.  It's so easy to get caught up in "I should be (fill in the blank)", "I should be wearing --", "I should be joining --".  Today I was reminded that I am unique and I'm uncomparable!  Thank you Antonio, I feel wonderful today.  :)

Gift #6 - February 22nd

 Today's gift idea came from my friend Sharon.  Sharon regularly clips coupons for dog & cat food then leaves these in the stores where the foods are shelved.  Sharon & I served on the board together for the Humane Society of Pulaski County.  As a huge animal lover and generous supporter, I shouldn't be surprised at Sharon's deed, but a small part of me was.  The fact that this women, without having a "30 Day" project, does this already was just awesome.  It made me stop and think about all the little things people already do for each other...complete strangers...helping each other.  My heart smiled today.

Back to today's gift.  Last month I purchased a Whole Foods calendar which comes with a sheet of good coupons.  You know the ones I'm talking about...$1 off kind of coupons.  The kind that no matter your budget, you stop to tear out.  Today I tore out 3 coupons.  One for coffee, one for milk, and one for granola bars.  I applied tape to each of them then stuck them all to a sticky note.  Feeling quite proud of my skills, I imagined a blog where I wrote about "how-tos".  How To Transport Tape & Coupons Effectively.  After a moment of daydreaming, I realized that would be one short blog. 

Moving on...

As I worked my way through my grocery list, I discretely tacked up the coupons.  Casually stepping back to take a few photos, of course.  I know there is the "Coupon Board" at Whole Foods so I was worried if someone might stop me and say "Hey, you can't do that! Those have to go on the Coupon Board!".  No worries.  After the first 2 coupons, I was fearless.  I did worry slightly if the sticky residue would ruin the wood shelving units (a nurtured fear after growing up around antiques).  I comforted myself with the thought someone would come by soon and snatch these up (too quickly for any residue to harm the shelves).

All-in-all it was a successful adventure.  Much like Gift #4 I won't see the recipients face as they realize there is a little something-something just for them.  Like my How-To blog, I guess I will just daydream for now.

Gift #5 - February 21st

Today I packed up a little red gown (and matching handbag) to be shipped off to Lauren Slamb of Lauren's Lamb Foundation.  Lauren is collecting prom gowns for girls who could not otherwise afford them.  Her goal is to collect 250 gowns and so far she has collected 180...make that 181!  What's most impresive about Lauren is that she is only in the 8th grade!  Wow!  When I was in junior high I was too busy trying to get Bret Michaels to sign my - well, whatever - the point is I was too busy doing my own thing to worry about other people.  I think it's amazing what she is doing and happy to make my gift today to her and the Lauren's Lamb Foundation.

Gift #4 - February 20th

I woke up this morning with a full blown cold - yuck!  If it weren't for the dwindling puppy food I would have never left the house.  But, that just wasn't an option today.  At the suggestion of my friend Emilie, I decided I was going to buy coffee for the person behind me at Starbucks.  I haven't had caffeine in almost two years but if there was ever a day for caffeine, this was it.

Before I left the house, I quickly made a few cards that briefly describe this project.  My intention is to distribute these cards to the recipients of my gifts if it felt appropriate.

As I drove into Starbucks, three cars pulled in in front of me.  I thought, "No, you're supposed to be behind me!".  I started to worry that maybe no one would pull in behind me.  Worry not - this is Starbucks people.  Before I could get my order in, Hello Mr. Jeep Grand Cherokee!  It was today that I realized how quickly we sum people up by looks.  My first thought was this gentleman would not appreciate this gift or be moved by it.  Then, I reminded myself, this is about my experience - stick to my plan - buy his coffee.  When I got to the window I told the cashier I'd like to buy the coffee of the guy behind me.  She didn't blink an eye - apparently this happens a lot?  Anyway, after ringing me up, I handed her one of my pre-made cards and asked she give it to him.

As I drove off I felt a little bummed that I didn't get to see his smile like I did after yesterday's gift.  Did that diminish my gift since I didn't connect with him?  Maybe it changed his day MORE than the couple yesterday.  Who knows, but I hope, whoever he was, he enjoyed his coffee.  :)

Gift #3 - February 19th

John, my husband, & I went to lunch today at one of our favorite Mexican joints.  I had another gift idea in mind for the day but as we arrived it dawned on me I had, in my wallet, a gift certificate for a free dessert to that restaurant.  I decided I would give that away to a stranger. 

As we sat eating lunch another couple sat down in the booth behind us.  I didn't see them come in but felt the slight bounce in my seat as the opposite diner slide into her side.  I told John I was going to give them the certificate.  He replied "Yeah, do it!".  As we waited on the check I started feeling uncomfortable about approaching a complete stranger.  I thought maybe I would have John do it.  Then, I thought that would defeat my purpose.  So, as we got up to leave, I approached them.  The husband politely declined and I felt this slight panic with the idea of having to approach another stranger.  But, then, the wife said "Sure, I'll take it!".  Thanks sister.  They both smiled, then John & I smiled.  It was really nice.  Walking to the car I felt this urge to just start giving more stuff away.  This felt good.

Gift #2 - February 18th

Once a month my Sunday school class hosts a "Dinner Club".  We all get together for dinner at one couple's house or go out.  This Saturday night we went to another couple's house.  Normally I would bring a bottle of wine but not always.  (I felt a twinge of shame just come over me as I typed that I don't always bring a host/hostess gift.  Have times changed that much that it's no longer common or has my etiquette lapsed greatly?  This topic for another blog I suppose).  Anyway, as my gift for Saturday, I decided to bring a King Cake from the yummy Community Bakery.  It was Mardi Gras after all and the idea sounded fun.  It was indeed fun, especially as we all waited to see who got the baby!

I shared my project that evening and received several great ideas.  My favorite came from the hostess, Leslie, who suggested at the end of my project I try to find someone else to pick it up for another 30 days.  Any takers?

Gift #1 - February 17th

I was so inspired by Catherine's gift I had to share this with my friend, Julie.  Julie is a brilliant artist and fantastic massage therapist (you can read her blog here and schedule a massage here).  As I lay on her massage table for an hour of sheer bliss, it hit me!  Give Catherine a gift certificate for a massage to Julie!  I was so excited...this gift benefited two people...woo-hoo!

Catherine loved the gift certificate and decided to share it with her husband.  Now...make that THREE people!

Unexpected gift:  Friday afternoon I was shopping for a new car seat.  The store was hosting a trade-in event for 25% off certificates (you bring in an old item and get 25% off the purchase of a new item).  I needed to buy two car seats, one for me and one for my mother's car.  She had an item to trade in, but I didn't.  As I stood there a women approached me and asked if I would be buying a car seat today.  I said yes and she GAVE ME her 25% off certificate!  She said she traded in two items and only needed one certificate.  Folks, let me give you numbers here...that just saved me $50!  I thanked her, hopefully profusely, and thought "wait a minute...I am the one to be giving the gifts!".

My Inspiration

Several months ago I sold a dining table on Craigslist to a young couple.  When they arrived, a little voice inside me said "Just give it to them".  I didn't.  A few weeks later, I sold a couch...same little voice.  Besides wondering why I'm selling all my furniture, you might be wondering why I didn't do it.  I still don't know.  But, I came up with the idea of giving something away every day for 30 days.  I believe in taking action when inspired but guess what?  I still didn't do it! 

Fast forward 3 months.  I met a new friend, Catherine, in my aerobics class.  From my second week in class, I knew Catherine would be an inspiration to me.  She gave 100% to her workout from the minute she started to the end.  Catherine is also an artist and while surfing her fabulous site I saw a painting that really spoke to me.  I emailed her and told her I wanted to hear more about it.  She said she painted it while pregnant as a gift for her OB.  She ended up giving him someting else but went on to say that since she painted it as a gift she wanted to give it me.  Wow.  I was so blown away.  This person, that I barely knew, wanted to give me this amazing gift.  I was honored, excited, and...most of all...inspired.  The universe had yelled loud enough...I was going to start my project.  The day Catherine gave me her amazing work of art, I gave her the first gift in my 30 Days of Giving Project.

Here are a few of my ground rules:

1) Gifts have to be something I would not normally give or do.  Since I volunteer for a few organizations already I couldn't count those acts.

2) Gifts could be to strangers or friends, but there should to be a mixture of both.

3) Gifts could be in any form: money, items I own, my time, my advice, items I purchase, etc. 

4) Gifts that could benefit more than one person would be extra cool.

Ok...let's do this!!

P.S.  You will note from the date stamp on my posts I may not always post daily, but rest assured, I will post!  :)