Check out what these kids did to help other kids!
http://www.westport-news.com/news/article/Grace-notes-Kids-for-Kids-concert-helps-African-1310353.php
Thanks to Lindsay, 365 Days of Service, New Haven Chapter, for sharing!
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Cookies for the Cleaners
Do you leave your office in the evening with your trash can full? Come back in the morning and it's empty? The floor vaccuumed weekly? The office sink of dishes cleaned overnight?
I currently work in a building where we're fortunate enough that part of our building service is to have wonderful custodians, evening after evening, come into our office and help us with these tasks.
Another way to celebrate the joy of baking? Leave cookies or other treats for the overnight cleaners. They do not expect this type of treat in their "workplace" and will certainly appreciate the acknowledgement of their good work every night!
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
The Mosaic Project
Have you heard about the Mosaic Project?
The Mosaid Project, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, provides children with essential skills to thrive in an incresingly diverse society and empowers them to help create a peaceful future. Our principal program is a dynamic residential experience for 4th and 5th graders. Three classes from different schools that contrast markedly in socioeconomic and ethinic make-up jointly participate in each 4-night/5day session of our unique human-relations outdoor school.
Visit their website.
The Mosaic Project produced a CD featuring Brett Dennen called "Children's Songs for Peace and a Better World." Check out one of their songs below. It's an awesome album.
Monday, March 28, 2011
Marukai Opens in West LA!
Look who came to town! Marukai!
Marukai Market sells Japanese food, health and household items, and ceramics. If you're a LA transplant from Hawai'i, Marukai sells pieces of home.
Yes, I was shocked when I saw a sign for their new store location and when shopping I was in pure heaven. Not only did everyone look like me, but there were food products that I grew up eating - whether Japanese or Hawaiian island flavors.
Thank you, Marukai, for serving the people of West Los Angeles!
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| My favorite aisle sign ever: Hawaiian delicacies and "American Food" |
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Sears Auto Center
Stella (my car) has gotten a lot of love lately. In the past month she's decided that she needed a new windshield, a new battery, an oil change, and then decided that her left headlight was tired out. So it died.
I try not to pull the "I'm a girl" card ever but when it comes to changing a headlight, I just didn't know how to do it. I youtube-d how to do it, with hopes that I could change Stella's light on my own, but alas, the mentioned taking out the battery, unscrewing the entire top layer of something, was enough to tell me that I couldn't do it on my own.
So, to Sears Auto Center I went. Not that they change headlights but at least I could ask and if they couldn't do it then they'd point me in the right direction of someone who could. And I trust them.
My rationale for hoping they would help me? Changing my light meant that they'd have to remove the battery... the battery they put in. That was connection enough for me.
So I drove up to the Sears Auto Center Express Battery Service and thankfully saw the man that helped me just a couple of weeks ago replacing Stella's battery. He asked how he could help and I said, "I came here a couple of weeks ago to get a new car battery and since then my driver side headlight has gone out. I have the light but the battery has to be removed in order to replace it. Might you be able to help me?"
"I remember you," he responded, "where's your car?"
Yes! He's going to help me and Stella!
And, a few minutes later, battery removed and put back in, Stella had a new light.
I asked him there was a charge. "No, don't worry about it," he said.
I left him with the only offering I had in my car at the time... a bag of chocolate covered macadamia nut candies, as every island girl carries in their car for occasions such as these(not really, but it seemed fitting).
He said it was okay, I didn't need to give him anything, but I insisted that he take it and share with his team. It was the least I could give for him helping keep me and Stella safe.
Thanks to the kind folk at Sears Auto Center!
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Community Responders - Service Highlight!
By Daniel Anderson, 365 Days of Service, Kailua Chapter
I was reminded of my early boy scout training at the end on a long
hike recently.
We were ending a long 6.5 mile killer hike, when a fellow hiker lost
her footing on a steep section of loose rock. Both her scream and
sharp, brittle, metallic snapping noise reached me at the same time.
My worst fears of wilderness hiking were rushing at me in that moment.
Would she be alright, was she bleeding, were "we" in trouble? Our
training took over, following the rules during traumatic event we did
no further harm. We made sure our fellow hiker was in safe position,
not going to fall down the side of the hill. We evaluated her physical
condition and performed the necessary first aid. No bleeding, just
swelling of ankle and sharp continuing pain. We were worried that a
bone was broken, so we tried to splinted lower leg with wraps to
provide support. Because of the pain in her leg, we removed splint
which provide comfort over support. Knowing we could not let her walk
on leg, and still not at the end of hike, we carried and dragged her
to trail ending for transfer to city EMT service.
I have had first aid training over the years. First as a Boy Scout,
and than as a requirement for employment. Situations like our hike and
the community responders with emergency in Japan, reminds me that this
training is important and does good.
I was also reminded that I need to renew my first aid certification,
because I need to continue to improve and test my skills to be
effective in real life conditions. I am going to an American Red Cross
first aid class this weekend to make sure I am ready next time.
I was reminded of my early boy scout training at the end on a long
hike recently.
We were ending a long 6.5 mile killer hike, when a fellow hiker lost
her footing on a steep section of loose rock. Both her scream and
sharp, brittle, metallic snapping noise reached me at the same time.
My worst fears of wilderness hiking were rushing at me in that moment.
Would she be alright, was she bleeding, were "we" in trouble? Our
training took over, following the rules during traumatic event we did
no further harm. We made sure our fellow hiker was in safe position,
not going to fall down the side of the hill. We evaluated her physical
condition and performed the necessary first aid. No bleeding, just
swelling of ankle and sharp continuing pain. We were worried that a
bone was broken, so we tried to splinted lower leg with wraps to
provide support. Because of the pain in her leg, we removed splint
which provide comfort over support. Knowing we could not let her walk
on leg, and still not at the end of hike, we carried and dragged her
to trail ending for transfer to city EMT service.
I have had first aid training over the years. First as a Boy Scout,
and than as a requirement for employment. Situations like our hike and
the community responders with emergency in Japan, reminds me that this
training is important and does good.
I was also reminded that I need to renew my first aid certification,
because I need to continue to improve and test my skills to be
effective in real life conditions. I am going to an American Red Cross
first aid class this weekend to make sure I am ready next time.
Friday, March 25, 2011
Pasteries to a Bakery Blogger
Have you ever read my blog-spiration? Check out The Great American Bakery Hunt.
This blog, and it's author, encouraged me to start blogging. It's the wittiest, most delicious blog to be found!
And now, meet Alex. Whenever Alex is in town she brings her local goods to represent her local chapter of the Great American Bakery Hunt. This week: Macrina in Seattle. On the menu to make one believe in the power of baked goods on one's happiness: chocolate and vanilla macaroons, fruit bar, pecan bar, toffee brownie, and plum roll.
Yum! 365 salutes The Great American Bakery Hunt and those like Alex who support this worthy endeavor!
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Bookmobile!
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| Fantastic picture by Bridget |
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| Fantastic picture by Kimmy |
It seems perfectly fitting that during National Book Week that I run into the LA Bookmobile on the road.
The LA County Library Bookmobile, a spacious, 2,500 volume capacity "Library on Wheels" was established in 2001 in order to bring library services to urban Los Angeles where library services are not easily accessible. Following it's 3-week check-out system, the Urban Outreach Library takes 3 routes spread over 3 weeks bringing books and audiovisual materials, reference services, and provides youth and adult programming.
Yay for the Urban Outrach Bookmobile!
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
National Book Week
Thanks to a good Facebook friend who tipped me on to this...
It's National Book Week!
Here are the rules: Grab the book closest to you. Turn to page 56. Copy the 5th sentence. Don't mention the book.
Ready, set, go!
It is this compliant animal, to the public no different from the others in size and apparent ferocity, that will be the star of the show, while the trainer leaves the beta and gamma lions, more cantankerous subordinates, sitting on their colourful barrels on the edge of the ring.
Celebrate books, share National Book Week with friends!
It's National Book Week!
Here are the rules: Grab the book closest to you. Turn to page 56. Copy the 5th sentence. Don't mention the book.
Ready, set, go!
It is this compliant animal, to the public no different from the others in size and apparent ferocity, that will be the star of the show, while the trainer leaves the beta and gamma lions, more cantankerous subordinates, sitting on their colourful barrels on the edge of the ring.
Celebrate books, share National Book Week with friends!
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Offer to take a group photo
Throughout the afternoon Kimmy went up to multiple groups on the pier and offered to take their photo. Thanks, Kimmy, for capturing special family memories!
Monday, March 21, 2011
Sunday, March 20, 2011
LA Marathon - Cheer them on!
Congratulations to the 25,000 who will participate in the LA Marathon today!
Service within the marathon is plenty: Official Charities of the marathon, teams running for specific causes, the thousands upon thousands of individuals who will line the streets with a committment to cheer on runners - strangers - to reach their goal.
One stand out group is Students Run LA. If you are an LA Marathon spectator, you couldn't help but notice the over 2,800 participants wearing neon green jerseys. This is a group of secondary students and every one of these students is an inspiration - a youth at-risk who commits to participating in the LA Marathon. This is no small feat.
It is the mission of Students Run LA to challenge at-risk secondary students to experience the benefits of goal-setting, character development, adult mentoring and improved health by providing them with a truly life-changing experience: The training for and completion of the Honda LA Marathon.
Through this experience student runners are paired with adult mentors, meet students very different than themselves, and make the daunting challenge of completing a marathon an attainable goal.
Check out this program. It's inspirational on their webiste and exponentially inspirational in person.
Go students, go!
Service within the marathon is plenty: Official Charities of the marathon, teams running for specific causes, the thousands upon thousands of individuals who will line the streets with a committment to cheer on runners - strangers - to reach their goal.
One stand out group is Students Run LA. If you are an LA Marathon spectator, you couldn't help but notice the over 2,800 participants wearing neon green jerseys. This is a group of secondary students and every one of these students is an inspiration - a youth at-risk who commits to participating in the LA Marathon. This is no small feat.
It is the mission of Students Run LA to challenge at-risk secondary students to experience the benefits of goal-setting, character development, adult mentoring and improved health by providing them with a truly life-changing experience: The training for and completion of the Honda LA Marathon.
Through this experience student runners are paired with adult mentors, meet students very different than themselves, and make the daunting challenge of completing a marathon an attainable goal.
Check out this program. It's inspirational on their webiste and exponentially inspirational in person.
Go students, go!
Saturday, March 19, 2011
March for Babies -Service Highlight!
By Kirstin Youmans, 365 Days of Service, Gainsville Chapter
A story of Lauren: When Lauren’s parents were expecting her, their first child, they expected a normal pregnancy. Lauren’s mom was healthy and got regular prenatal care from her doctor; she did everything she was supposed to do. But instead of the normal 40 weeks of pregnancy, Lauren’s parents had a surprise, and Lauren came early. She was born at 26 weeks. She weighed 2 pounds and 1 ounce. As doctors and nurses cared for her, helped her to breathe through under-developed lungs, and helped her body grow bigger and stronger, Lauren stayed at the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at the hospital. She stayed there for almost 5 months. For 5 months, her parents could not take their new baby home with them, but instead spent hours upon hours with her in the hospital.
Lauren is now a healthy 6-year-old. She survived her premature birth, but many babies do not. One in 8 babies is born premature, and premature birth is the number one killer of newborns.
The mission of the March of Dimes is to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, infant mortality, and premature birth. Money goes toward research about what causes prematurity and birth defects, toward educating women about how to have healthier pregnancies, and toward supporting the families of babies in the NICU, among other things.
I started volunteering for the March of Dimes while I was in high school. The March of Dimes believes in the power of youth, and I was a member of a youth leadership council, where I learned a lot. I remained a highly involved volunteer through college, spending hours each week teaching my peers about how healthy lifestyles affect pregnancies, recruiting people to help the March of Dimes, and fundraising for the March of Dimes. After college, I continued to participate in the annual walkathon each year -- March for Babies -- and during this time I had the opportunity to meet many children affected by birth defects such as spina bifida, congenital heart defects, and cleft lip. I learned of these children’s courage and challenges. I imagined a day when we know how to prevent all birth defects, and these experiences strengthened my passion for the March of Dimes.
Now, years later, I am no longer a volunteer, but a new staff member of the March of Dimes, and I work with our youth volunteers!
Though my role has changed, I am still doing individual fundraising. My minimum goal for myself this year is to raise at least $1,000 for healthier babies, and my stretch goal is $2,000! I would love your help.
When people sign up to participate in their local March for Babies, they can create their very own secure fundraising page that accepts credit cards, debit cards, and PayPal. My page is at http://www.marchforbabies.org/KirstinCYoumans . If you would like to donate and help save babies, go to my page, read my story, and then click on the “Donate Now!” button.
If you would like to instead find a March for Babies near you and participate yourself, go to http://www.marchforbabies.org and click “find an event.”
A story of Lauren: When Lauren’s parents were expecting her, their first child, they expected a normal pregnancy. Lauren’s mom was healthy and got regular prenatal care from her doctor; she did everything she was supposed to do. But instead of the normal 40 weeks of pregnancy, Lauren’s parents had a surprise, and Lauren came early. She was born at 26 weeks. She weighed 2 pounds and 1 ounce. As doctors and nurses cared for her, helped her to breathe through under-developed lungs, and helped her body grow bigger and stronger, Lauren stayed at the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at the hospital. She stayed there for almost 5 months. For 5 months, her parents could not take their new baby home with them, but instead spent hours upon hours with her in the hospital.
Lauren is now a healthy 6-year-old. She survived her premature birth, but many babies do not. One in 8 babies is born premature, and premature birth is the number one killer of newborns.
The mission of the March of Dimes is to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, infant mortality, and premature birth. Money goes toward research about what causes prematurity and birth defects, toward educating women about how to have healthier pregnancies, and toward supporting the families of babies in the NICU, among other things.
I started volunteering for the March of Dimes while I was in high school. The March of Dimes believes in the power of youth, and I was a member of a youth leadership council, where I learned a lot. I remained a highly involved volunteer through college, spending hours each week teaching my peers about how healthy lifestyles affect pregnancies, recruiting people to help the March of Dimes, and fundraising for the March of Dimes. After college, I continued to participate in the annual walkathon each year -- March for Babies -- and during this time I had the opportunity to meet many children affected by birth defects such as spina bifida, congenital heart defects, and cleft lip. I learned of these children’s courage and challenges. I imagined a day when we know how to prevent all birth defects, and these experiences strengthened my passion for the March of Dimes.
Now, years later, I am no longer a volunteer, but a new staff member of the March of Dimes, and I work with our youth volunteers!
Though my role has changed, I am still doing individual fundraising. My minimum goal for myself this year is to raise at least $1,000 for healthier babies, and my stretch goal is $2,000! I would love your help.
When people sign up to participate in their local March for Babies, they can create their very own secure fundraising page that accepts credit cards, debit cards, and PayPal. My page is at http://www.marchforbabies.org/KirstinCYoumans . If you would like to donate and help save babies, go to my page, read my story, and then click on the “Donate Now!” button.
If you would like to instead find a March for Babies near you and participate yourself, go to http://www.marchforbabies.org and click “find an event.”
Friday, March 18, 2011
Three for One - Service Highlight!
By Kimmy Lamborn, 365 Days of Service, Cassia Chapter
Three amazingly wonderful acts of custom service happened in my life last week. Ready?
1. Long story short, my mom ordered me a pair of shoes that were too small. I wanted to return them without a hassel. I called the toll free number and spoke to Ashley. She totally took care of me. She insturced me on how to ship them back. She priotiy mailed the shoes so I could have them right away, they were a birthday present. Mostly, she made a task that felt like a hassel a shearly pleasant experience. Then, a few days after I received the shoes I got a hand written thank you note from her. It reads” I just wanted to send you a short note to tell you what a pleasure it was assisting you with your exchnage order today. I hope that the size 8.5 in the Toms Glitter Slip-ons work out better than the size 8 did. I hope you have a great week. Best Wishes, Your friend at Nordstroms.com. Ashely B. “ WHAT? A hand written thank you note? Thank you Nordstroms. Amazing!
2. I love the mail. Really, I have a problem. I love sending mail, receiving mail and simply just visiting the post office. When I mail something I like the stamp to correspond with the contents of the envelope, etc. I have been eyeing these new forvever stamps: I was told they would be released in March, no specific date given. So, whenever I pass the post office, I stop enquiring about the stamps. On Tuesday, I stopped and asked about the stamps and I was told this. “I don’t know but, if you leave me your phone number, I can call you and tell you.” WHAT?!! She had no idea I had been to several other post offices looking for these stamps. She just made my day. Literally, 47 minutes later, Terry called to let me know March 25th was the day. Talk about some kindness.
3. I have a favorite clothes store, New York & Company. I love their clothes for many reasons. Some include, good quality, not too trendy, easy to launder, and I can always find something on sale. Recently, the store in my local mall closed. I stood at the entrance and shed a tear. (This is very uncharastic of me.) The next closest store is a good 40 minutes away. So I trecked to the store farther away. Since I knew it would be hard to get back to, I made a decent sized purchase that affored me several substancial coupons to use on my “next visit”. Here’s the thing: I forget about those coupons. The ones that say use between such and such dates, yeah, I forget. On Tuesday I got a call from an actual person reminding me to come in and use my coupons. WHAT?! You, a real person, called me to remind me! I know some of you are thinking, Kimmy, they just want your money. I know, I know, but come on, a real person called me to remind me. And so, tonight, I shop again but this time, for my sister.
Three amazingly wonderful acts of custom service happened in my life last week. Ready?
1. Long story short, my mom ordered me a pair of shoes that were too small. I wanted to return them without a hassel. I called the toll free number and spoke to Ashley. She totally took care of me. She insturced me on how to ship them back. She priotiy mailed the shoes so I could have them right away, they were a birthday present. Mostly, she made a task that felt like a hassel a shearly pleasant experience. Then, a few days after I received the shoes I got a hand written thank you note from her. It reads” I just wanted to send you a short note to tell you what a pleasure it was assisting you with your exchnage order today. I hope that the size 8.5 in the Toms Glitter Slip-ons work out better than the size 8 did. I hope you have a great week. Best Wishes, Your friend at Nordstroms.com. Ashely B. “ WHAT? A hand written thank you note? Thank you Nordstroms. Amazing!
2. I love the mail. Really, I have a problem. I love sending mail, receiving mail and simply just visiting the post office. When I mail something I like the stamp to correspond with the contents of the envelope, etc. I have been eyeing these new forvever stamps: I was told they would be released in March, no specific date given. So, whenever I pass the post office, I stop enquiring about the stamps. On Tuesday, I stopped and asked about the stamps and I was told this. “I don’t know but, if you leave me your phone number, I can call you and tell you.” WHAT?!! She had no idea I had been to several other post offices looking for these stamps. She just made my day. Literally, 47 minutes later, Terry called to let me know March 25th was the day. Talk about some kindness.
3. I have a favorite clothes store, New York & Company. I love their clothes for many reasons. Some include, good quality, not too trendy, easy to launder, and I can always find something on sale. Recently, the store in my local mall closed. I stood at the entrance and shed a tear. (This is very uncharastic of me.) The next closest store is a good 40 minutes away. So I trecked to the store farther away. Since I knew it would be hard to get back to, I made a decent sized purchase that affored me several substancial coupons to use on my “next visit”. Here’s the thing: I forget about those coupons. The ones that say use between such and such dates, yeah, I forget. On Tuesday I got a call from an actual person reminding me to come in and use my coupons. WHAT?! You, a real person, called me to remind me! I know some of you are thinking, Kimmy, they just want your money. I know, I know, but come on, a real person called me to remind me. And so, tonight, I shop again but this time, for my sister.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Booda Brand
Check out Booda Brand.
"Booda Brand strives to protect and elevate children. Protect the world we live in for them, and elevate the mind they live in with the power of words."
Using 100% certified organic cotton to craft their onesies and shirts , Booda Brand uses "world imagery and the power of word...to give a child's imagination the wings to soar through their mind maps."
In addition, for every Booda Brand product sold, one book is gifted to a child in need through Room to Read.
Check it out!
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Girl Scouts and Cookie Season
For over 90 years, Girl Scouts has been building strong girls, and today, over 3.2 million Girl Scouts in the US and internationally. Since 1912, over 50 million women have participated in the Girl Scouts program.
Here's who they are and what they do:
In Girl Scouts, girls discover the fun, friendship, and power of girls together. Through a myriad of enriching experiences, such as extraordinary field trips, sports skill-building clinics, community service projects, cultural exchanges, and environmental stewardships, girls grow courageous and strong. Girl Scouting helps girls develop their full individual potential; relate to others with increasing understanding, skill, and respect; develop values to guide their actions and provide the foundation for sound decision-making; and contribute to the improvement of society through their abilities, leadership skills, and cooperation with others.
One of their cornerstone programs is the Girl Scout Cookie Program. In addition to raising funds for the Girl Scouts Program, selling cookies aims to teach participants 5 key skills: goal setting, decision making, money management, people skills, and business ethics. Troops set their cookie goal to meet their desired activities for the year and all cookie sales benefit your local Girl Scouts Troop.
Plus, Girl Scout Cookies provide consumers with delicious cookies that are devoured annually!
On one particular Saturday this local Girl Scout was selling cookies in the community. When asked if her cookie costume was a requirement or came with the cookies, she said, "No, I just had it and thought it would boost sales!" You go, girl!
Support your local Girl Scouts - enjoy those cookies!
"Every cookie has a mission: to help girls do great things."
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Clean Bay Certified Restaurant
Coogies Beach Cafe, a Malibu favorite.
Not only for it's delicious food, including yummy zuchinni bread, but also because it's a Clean Bay Certified Restaurant.
Whether we think about it or not, we know that runoff from land ends up in our oceans. In the Santa Monica Bay, for example, 30 billion (yes, BILLION!) gallons of runoff is discharged into the bay annually.
As I just learned from the Santa Monica Bay Restoration Commission website, "Restaurants are considered to be high prioirty sites because of the large amount of waste that they handle. Restaurants play an important role in reducing ocean pollution by properly disposing of wastes, keeping their facilities clean, preventing spills, training their employees, and making other environmentally responsible choices."
The Clean Bay Restaurant Certification program recognizes restaurants that go above and beyond what is required by law. They have passed an inspection with 100% compliance of the program's pollution preventing best management practices.
Live in the Santa Monica Bay area? Support your local Clean Bay Certified Restaurants and learn more about the program.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Rameet is getting married (and wants some ice cream!)
Next week, Rameet is getting married. This weekend, she celebrated her last week of bachelorette-dom with her best girlfriends. One must-have in their celebration: Diddy Riese.
Diddy Riese is a Los Angeles landmark. Since 1983, Diddy Riese has been serving Los Angeleans with the best ice cream cookie sandwiches. Yes, 2 fresh baked cookies of your choice sandwiching a scoop of Dreyers ice cream. More than enough to keep hearts happy. And the best part - all of this for $1.50 each. A slice of heaven for less than 2 dollars.
With a deal this good, you can imagine why there's always a line of customers spanning the block where Diddy Riese sits. This night was no different. I was one of those in the line. Not to be bothered by the long line or the chilly night. Ice cream cookie sandwich heaven was soon to be mine.
Then along came a group of 8 women. One woman yelled to the crowd, "Ladies and gentlemen, this is my sister Rameet. Next week she is getting married. And she really wants ice cream. In honor of her wedding, may she please step to the front of the line for ice cream?!"
Without hesitation, individuals in the crowd opened to let her in, right the the front of the line. "Congratulations," some called. "Sure, go ahead," others invited.
This line of more than 75 people (yes, I counted) granted Rameet one of her last single-woman wishes, an ice cream cookie sandwich on demand.
Congratulations, Rameet! Cheers to many years of happiness, love, and Diddy Riese!
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| Left: Chocolate chip cookie & chocolate chocolate chip cookie with mint chip ice cream. Right, a classic: Chocolate chip cookies with cookie dough ice cream. |
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| Diddy Riese: if you want to get the most bang for your buck, stop here. |
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Sierra Club
As we were exiting our hike last night we saw a group of people going UP the mountain. Yes, up. It was 6:30 p.m. and we saw a group of 4 people starting up the trail. They looked like good friends and good-friend-Lindsay and I thought they were so cool. And we chatted about how awesome they were, likely having cooked dinner then going on a night hike. We envisioned how we could live our lives just like them one day.
Then another 30 people followed them. Surely, they didn't all cook dinner together then go on a hike.
So we asked. "Is there an event tonight?"
"Sierra Club Wednesday night hike," one man responded. He continued to tell us that tonight they were going up to Inspiration Point where there would be a slideshow set up of the local areas. So cool!
He invited us to join along and if our stomachs weren't rumbling we likely would have joined them for the trail we missed. No problem, he said that they hike together every Wednesday and Friday night, Saturday and Sunday mornings. Meet at Hope and State in downtown San Diego.
Yup, it seemed like a pretty great life. Hiking a number of times a week, exploring the great outdoors with a group of others. This great life: the Sierra Club.
There are Sierra Clubs in every neck of the woods, including yours. Visit their website to learn more! This club, made up of over 1.4 million people, work to "protect communities, wild places, and the planet itself," and are the "largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization in the United States." They have Outings, or Wilderness Adventures, across the US and abroad, in inner cities, and in your own backyard. They also, like we encountered, have many, many hiking groups that take advantage of the local area. Plus, there's much more!
Visit the Sierra Club website, and learn more about how to become one of those awesome people and live the life we admired!
Then another 30 people followed them. Surely, they didn't all cook dinner together then go on a hike.
So we asked. "Is there an event tonight?"
"Sierra Club Wednesday night hike," one man responded. He continued to tell us that tonight they were going up to Inspiration Point where there would be a slideshow set up of the local areas. So cool!
He invited us to join along and if our stomachs weren't rumbling we likely would have joined them for the trail we missed. No problem, he said that they hike together every Wednesday and Friday night, Saturday and Sunday mornings. Meet at Hope and State in downtown San Diego.
Yup, it seemed like a pretty great life. Hiking a number of times a week, exploring the great outdoors with a group of others. This great life: the Sierra Club.
There are Sierra Clubs in every neck of the woods, including yours. Visit their website to learn more! This club, made up of over 1.4 million people, work to "protect communities, wild places, and the planet itself," and are the "largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization in the United States." They have Outings, or Wilderness Adventures, across the US and abroad, in inner cities, and in your own backyard. They also, like we encountered, have many, many hiking groups that take advantage of the local area. Plus, there's much more!
Visit the Sierra Club website, and learn more about how to become one of those awesome people and live the life we admired!
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Location Unknown
Our day got off to a relaxed start, and after two different detours that landed me a new pair of running shoes and Linds a Patagonia skirt/shirt-in-one, at 4:15 pm we arrived at our destination: Inspiration Point.
Now hear this. Inspiration Point is described as a generally moderate hike, point indistinct, climbs through shady chapparal to a summit which (trail being an electric company access road).
Linds and I journeyed to "Inspiration Point" by following the most obvious trail. At one point we saw other crossing a small creek so we followed. (Editors note: this was wrong turn #1.) We continued to climb, wondering where the exact "inspiration point" was. Linds mentioned something about "rock-hopping" in a discription she read. Well, we "rock hopped" up a mountain. Finally, an hour into our hike and nearly scaling parts of the mountain/trail, we looked across the landscape - then sighted a clear dirt path on the small mountain in our view. Alas, we found the true Inspiration Point. It was a sight to behold - and an even greater sight from our view, hundreds of feet higher!
We soaked up the view, took some Facebook worthy photos of ourselves, then started to scale back down the mountain. We started our hike late in the afternoon and it wasn't going to be long before the sun set, so back down the mountain we went.
We arrived back to the creek and realized... no trail. We'd follow the creek - at very least it would lead us to the ocean! After 7 minutes of going down the creek and finding no continuing trail, we decide maybe we should go up the creek instead. On our backtrack journey we ran into Joe, Zach, and David. We offered a friendly hello - and for me, an internal sigh of relief that we weren't going to be lost on the trail when the sun set! They were on their way too, while also not completely sure they were going exactly the right way, there was comfort in knowing that we weren't alone.
Joe, Zach, and David led the way while also being gentlemanly enough that one of them always was behind us. They pointed out the poison oak so we would avoid it (although when they pointed it out, I said, "Oh, I think I already touched that stuff..."), held some tree branches out of the way when we walked. Then alas, we found it. The trail back!
After relaxing a bit knowing we weren't lost in the wilderness and confirming that we were both parked in the same place (as not to lead one another in the wrong direction), we were able to chat for a bit on the way down. They are UCSB students/ex-students and it was also their first time on the trail. They climbed similar terrain as we did, enjoyed the company.
As we parted ways, I creepily asked them if I could take their picture for this blog post for their service in helping us find our way and they agreed. Alas, Joe, Zach, and David - the three that helped us find our way back! And not a minute to soon. We arrived back to our car at 6:30 pm as the last bit of light was taken over by the night sky.
When hearing they were going to be featured about kindness and service, they posed for this picture below - punching each other out.
Thank you J-Z-D!
Friday, March 11, 2011
Tsunami aid and relief: How we can help
From the CNN blog:
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Cresent Societies accepts donations via text message. Text "redcross" to 90999, and you can make a $10 donation to the organization. It will show up on your next mobile phone bill.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Plastic Free Life
By Jackie Boykin, 365 Days of Service, Florida Region
So, check out myplasticfreelife.com This woman became educated on plastic, and in 2007 decided to reduce her plastic use everyday. Now she is an amazing resource and inspiration, helping each of us and the planet. She provides resources and blogs about her efforts. The beauty of Beth is she did not set out to change the world, yet she is. She lives the life she asks all of us to try, and she’s doing it very well. She has helped educate people and move forward politics in the area of single use plastic and the BPA hormones that are so dangerous.
Check out her blog and what she has accomplished.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Represent by Chocolate
Currently at a fantastic conference that has an existing tradition of bringing chocolate from your hometown.
As a result, tonight a group of 30 indulged in chocolate from Connecticut, Florida, Ohio, California, North Carolina, Colorado, and Europe!
If there is one thing that most people can gather around, it's chocolate. Thanks to everyone for sharing!
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Vending Machine Attendant Serves Consumers
Check out how this man serves others through his thoughtful work... a fun read!
Monday, March 7, 2011
Thank you, Bossy!
By Janice Sakuma, 365 Days of Service, HI Region
At many ski resorts, skiers in the morning are greeted by resort employees who show you where to park. They guide cars one by one, similar to those guiding airplanes on the tarmac, sans orange tipped flashlights. Picture cold mornings. Frosty breaths. Walking on icy asphalt. And hundreds of eager but not always cooperative drivers. The responsibility of squeezing as many cars as possible onto frozen spaces morning after morning is sure to be a thankless and mundane task.
One morning this week, we arrived SUPER early before any attendants were in sight, and headed to the end of the lot. An employee caught our attention and pointed us to a stall at the entrance to the restaurant. The PERFECT 'ski in ski out' stall. A few minutes later, that same employee greeted us and said "how's that for a parking space?" I gave him a thumbs up and thanked him for the BEST parking space of all. (I wish I got his name too!)
A few minutes later as we were walking thru the parking lot we heard someone yell "Have a good day Bossy!" My husband and I looked at each other a little surprised. "No - Bossi is his name," the speaker said somewhat defensively. We just shrugged our shoulders and went on with getting our ski boots on.
Soon however we noticed an exuberant 'parking lot attendant.' He captured drivers attention with pizzaz and style. He greeted them with smiles and good cheer. Sent them on their way with well wishes for a great day on the mountain.
In between cars he stopped and hollered, "Hey are you from Hawaii?" "Why, do I still have my Hawaii sticker on my forehead?" I replied a bit puzzled. "No" he said, "I recognized your accent!" He walked over and laughed and talked for a few minutes.
Mike 'Bossi' (and the first gentleman that parked us) were doing the same 'mundane' task under the same conditions of the other resorts. Their approach and style - happy and sincere - set us up for a great day on the mountain. They were the perfect ambassadors for their organization. They gave the best first impression in a quick minute contact, and added to the anticipation of a fun filled day. And this all occured in a parking lot!
Thank you Alta! We had a Great Day!
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Celebrity Apprentice - Cheer for Meat Loaf!
Please tune in to this season of Celebrity Apprentice, kicking off tonight, March 6th on NBC. Legendary musician Meat Loaf will compete for The Painted Turtle!
Meat Loaf is a long-time supporter of camp and you may remember that in 2009 Meat Loaf chose The Painted Turtle as his charity when he won on the television game show "Don't Forget the Lyrics."
365 Days of Service wishes him equal success on Celebrity Apprentice and thanks him for his continued committment to camp and our campers!
All of his winnings will benefit The Painted Turtle - please cheer him on. Here's to Meat Loaf getting HIRED!
Go Meat!
Meat Loaf is a long-time supporter of camp and you may remember that in 2009 Meat Loaf chose The Painted Turtle as his charity when he won on the television game show "Don't Forget the Lyrics."
365 Days of Service wishes him equal success on Celebrity Apprentice and thanks him for his continued committment to camp and our campers!
All of his winnings will benefit The Painted Turtle - please cheer him on. Here's to Meat Loaf getting HIRED!
Go Meat!
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Honoring a Veteran - Service Highlight!
By Alycia Anderson, 365 Days of Service, Kailua Chapter
On Saturday January 22, 2011, while I was on the (USS Arizona) Memorial when an older man in his old World War II army uniform walked in. On that particular morning, I was flying American flags over the Memorial that were requested by active military men and women. To assist me, I usually ask kids or noticeable veterans or anyone who really looks interested in the flag that I am holding. When I saw this vet, I knew I would ask him to help me. He was very enthusiastic when I asked and raised the flag with up the very, very tall pole. We folded the flag in a nice triangle while most people, including his wife of 60 years and friends, took photos of us. I thanked him, we shook hands, and I put the flag away and continued with my duties as a park ranger of directing people and answering questions. Right before he got on the boat, the vet had asked if he could keep the flag that he flew. I felt really bad because I could tell he really wanted it, but I told him that it belonged to someone else and I couldn’t give it to him. But I said that he could go to our bookstore where they had flags that had already been flown over the Memorial and come back here and I would help him fly it again. He said ok and he was off on the boat.
A couple hours had past and I kinda forgot about him, but the army vet came off the boat and I said ok! You can wait by the flag pole and I’ll be there in a few minutes.
When I arrived at the pole, he was standing there with his flag in hand and posing for pictures with a number of young girls who wanted their picture with a man in uniform J. I interrupted the pictures because we only had a little time before the next group of visitors arrived. We raised his flag to the very top, saluted the flag and folded his flag once again while getting our pictures taken.
I was able to ride back on the boat with him and talk to him a little of his time in the army during the war (he had fought in the Battle of the Bulge and a number of other big battles in Europe). He said that he was in Hawaii with his wife for their 60th wedding anniversary. Their friend/travel agent was also their traveling companion. Back at theVisitor Center
A few days later, on Tuesday when I worked, a few minutes after we opened our doors at 7, the phone rang and as closest to it, I answered. The man on the other end was the vet calling back to speak specifically to me! He said that he was on Maui in a time share and enjoyed his time on his vacation. He wanted to ask if I could send a picture of myself and sign it. I said of course. And I took down his address. We continued to talk for a bit more and he said that what I did meant a lot to him, that it was one of his most important moments in his life. I was awestruck. This little thing I did meant so much for this man, where it started with me wanting help to raise our American flag.
I did send John my photo with my signature but also included a letter telling more about myself with my email and mailing address. A few days later, I got an email from John saying he got my letter and a little about himself. It’s nice that he emailed me back and I thought that would be the end of it.
But a few days after that I get another email:
Hi Alycia, My name is Tricia. You were on duty the day my parents visited the Arizona while they were on vacation in Hawaii. (They are now home in Ohio with a couple feet of snow and temperature less then 10!) They were celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary. My father had worn a uniform and you asked him to assist you in raising the flag. I want you to know how much that meant to him. They called home and were anxious to share this with everyone. Not only did you make his visit special but you also took the time to send him a letter and your picture. He shared that letter with me, as well as the rest of the family, and I just wanted to thank you for caring enough to do that. It truly made his day! There is so much troubling news in the world on a daily basis, but it is so good to see the kindness that also exists! I am glad to know you have found the vocation you want to pursue and wish you the best as you continue your education. It seems to me that you will be great at it, given the caring way in which you treated my parents! So again, thank you and good luck! Tricia
With this I started to tear up. The effect I had on John and how he shared it with his family and having Tricia tell me, really made me feel that I am doing the right thing because sometimes, I never know. It’s always good to tell people if they are doing good rather than always criticizing (which I feel is the only way some people communicate sometimes).
On Saturday January 22, 2011, while I was on the (USS Arizona) Memorial when an older man in his old World War II army uniform walked in. On that particular morning, I was flying American flags over the Memorial that were requested by active military men and women. To assist me, I usually ask kids or noticeable veterans or anyone who really looks interested in the flag that I am holding. When I saw this vet, I knew I would ask him to help me. He was very enthusiastic when I asked and raised the flag with up the very, very tall pole. We folded the flag in a nice triangle while most people, including his wife of 60 years and friends, took photos of us. I thanked him, we shook hands, and I put the flag away and continued with my duties as a park ranger of directing people and answering questions. Right before he got on the boat, the vet had asked if he could keep the flag that he flew. I felt really bad because I could tell he really wanted it, but I told him that it belonged to someone else and I couldn’t give it to him. But I said that he could go to our bookstore where they had flags that had already been flown over the Memorial and come back here and I would help him fly it again. He said ok and he was off on the boat.
A couple hours had past and I kinda forgot about him, but the army vet came off the boat and I said ok! You can wait by the flag pole and I’ll be there in a few minutes.
When I arrived at the pole, he was standing there with his flag in hand and posing for pictures with a number of young girls who wanted their picture with a man in uniform J. I interrupted the pictures because we only had a little time before the next group of visitors arrived. We raised his flag to the very top, saluted the flag and folded his flag once again while getting our pictures taken.
I was able to ride back on the boat with him and talk to him a little of his time in the army during the war (he had fought in the Battle of the Bulge and a number of other big battles in Europe). He said that he was in Hawaii with his wife for their 60th wedding anniversary. Their friend/travel agent was also their traveling companion. Back at the
A few days later, on Tuesday when I worked, a few minutes after we opened our doors at 7, the phone rang and as closest to it, I answered. The man on the other end was the vet calling back to speak specifically to me! He said that he was on Maui in a time share and enjoyed his time on his vacation. He wanted to ask if I could send a picture of myself and sign it. I said of course. And I took down his address. We continued to talk for a bit more and he said that what I did meant a lot to him, that it was one of his most important moments in his life. I was awestruck. This little thing I did meant so much for this man, where it started with me wanting help to raise our American flag.
I did send John my photo with my signature but also included a letter telling more about myself with my email and mailing address. A few days later, I got an email from John saying he got my letter and a little about himself. It’s nice that he emailed me back and I thought that would be the end of it.
But a few days after that I get another email:
Hi Alycia, My name is Tricia. You were on duty the day my parents visited the Arizona while they were on vacation in Hawaii. (They are now home in Ohio with a couple feet of snow and temperature less then 10!) They were celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary. My father had worn a uniform and you asked him to assist you in raising the flag. I want you to know how much that meant to him. They called home and were anxious to share this with everyone. Not only did you make his visit special but you also took the time to send him a letter and your picture. He shared that letter with me, as well as the rest of the family, and I just wanted to thank you for caring enough to do that. It truly made his day! There is so much troubling news in the world on a daily basis, but it is so good to see the kindness that also exists! I am glad to know you have found the vocation you want to pursue and wish you the best as you continue your education. It seems to me that you will be great at it, given the caring way in which you treated my parents! So again, thank you and good luck! Tricia
With this I started to tear up. The effect I had on John and how he shared it with his family and having Tricia tell me, really made me feel that I am doing the right thing because sometimes, I never know. It’s always good to tell people if they are doing good rather than always criticizing (which I feel is the only way some people communicate sometimes).
Friday, March 4, 2011
Equal Partners - Service Highlight!
By Sarah Hunt, 365 Days of Service, Nashville Division
I started a new job in October of last year. The position is a new role for me in a specialty that is new to me. So as my boss is showing me around a new office, a new hospital, and introducing me to all sorts of new people--he is also teaching me a surgical specialty and literally walking me through HOW to do my job. His patience is remarkable. He never tires of my questions, and he never tires of needing to repeat himself. What makes the biggest difference and what I think is truly a service, is that he always treats me as his equal partner, his coworker. To him, I don't work for him, I work with him. (Even though clearly, we are not at the same functional level when it comes to our job!). This in turn has taught me so much about how to work with all the other staff at my new job. Work is work, and we all have to learn the best ways to work with all types of people. Really thinking about and being deliberate in the ways that we work with others, no matter what position they hold, is truly a daily service.
I started a new job in October of last year. The position is a new role for me in a specialty that is new to me. So as my boss is showing me around a new office, a new hospital, and introducing me to all sorts of new people--he is also teaching me a surgical specialty and literally walking me through HOW to do my job. His patience is remarkable. He never tires of my questions, and he never tires of needing to repeat himself. What makes the biggest difference and what I think is truly a service, is that he always treats me as his equal partner, his coworker. To him, I don't work for him, I work with him. (Even though clearly, we are not at the same functional level when it comes to our job!). This in turn has taught me so much about how to work with all the other staff at my new job. Work is work, and we all have to learn the best ways to work with all types of people. Really thinking about and being deliberate in the ways that we work with others, no matter what position they hold, is truly a daily service.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Happy Girls' Day
Hinamatsuri, or Girls' Day, is the Japanese Doll Festival celebrated on March 3rd of every year. This custom of displaying dolls is believed to keep bad spirits away and bring good health and happiness for girls.
To me, Girls' Day growing up always meant mochi (a traditional Japanese treat) along with the boys putting up the girls' chairs in school. Teaching those boys good service at a young age!
To all the males in the world, please honor Girls' Day and be nice to girls today! (And don't worry you have your day too. Boys' Day is on May 5th.)
To me, Girls' Day growing up always meant mochi (a traditional Japanese treat) along with the boys putting up the girls' chairs in school. Teaching those boys good service at a young age!
To all the males in the world, please honor Girls' Day and be nice to girls today! (And don't worry you have your day too. Boys' Day is on May 5th.)
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Make a friend on the lift
Today I met a friend on the lift.
Family members had decided to go in for lunch and I had one more pre-lunch run in me. I stood in line for the lift and because the lines were so short, I imagined I would just ride up by myself. Then a kind, "May I join you?" came by my side.
As we rode to the top, Margaret introduced herself, asked where I was from, how often I ski, and if I was having a good day. Very kind. I always find that when out skiing people generally are very friendly - who has reason not to be when you're surrounded by snow-covered mountains participating in an activity you love?
What I especially enjoyed about Margaret was that she was just that as I would expect on the ski lift - kind, friendly, open to the quick get-to-know-you on the lift. She is a Utah transplant - moved here 20 years ago from CT, she said, because she and her husband wanted to be in a place where the snow was outside of the city. And when asked about how often she gets out to ski, she said, "I come out 3-4 days a week. When you grow up old enough, you get to do that."
What's not to love about this new friend?
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