Proof Positivity: Enough Said

Why is the title Enough said?  Because I am proving to you why you should think positivly.  Does feeling miserable make you feel better about yourself?  I wouldn’t think so.  It raises blood pressure which in turn adds stress and stress gives you headaches, sometimes migraines.  Migraines can lead to stroke and the cycle goes on and on.  When you think on the positive side you are more relaxed and less stressed.  My friend Benny from Ya-ttitude^TM     states,   ” A negative mind has not the ability to create positive or good thoughts.”   If you give negative, you get negative.  If you give positive imagine how much you could accomplish.  Community serviceis something that ties into this.  Community service is something you do for another individual of group of individuals and when you are finished with your project you get that warm fuzzy feeling and you are happy and there are so many benefits it’s crazy.

 

Benny and I are not the only ones in this world who feel that the power of positivity will take you far.  Valorie Burton, professional life coach and the author of   How Did I Get So Busy? and What’s Really Holding You Back?,  says  “People aim for success, believing it will bring happiness, but studies show it works the other way around — happiness brings greater success,” says Burton, who has coached clients in 40 states and seven countries. “Sprinkle uplifting moments throughout your day.” Positive emotions help you manage stress.

 

Some of the tips she offers are:

Commit to small changes that reconnect you with the people and things that matter most:

1. Create “fun goals” — things you’ll do for fun at least once a week

2. Stop hoarding vacation time. Take out the calendar and schedule time off in 2009

3. Take a daily walk with a loved one

4. Sit down as a family for dinner (only 28% of Americans do)

5. Tame your technology habits by having “no email periods” throughout the day

6. Before going to bed, write down three things you are grateful for (You’ll sleep better)

7. Say “no” more, so you can say “yes” to the things that matter

8. Get in “flow” with challenging, enjoyable activities

9. Stop eating lunch at your desk (75% of Americans do), and eat with a friend

    10. Every day, do something kind for someone.

    Keep resolutions specific and measurable.  Burton advises:

    -- Set goals that are authentic and meaningful.
    -- Be flexible and make adjustments as you go.
    -- Mark dates to check in on your goals.
    -- Partner with someone who will hold you accountable.
So, there you have it.  Positivity is where it is at.  It's not uncool to be positive and in the long
run it will help you feel good about yourself.

Doobie, Doobie, Doo

Legendary American rock band, The Doobie Brothers, will perform inside Cobo Arena at the 2009 North American International Auto Show’s (NAIAS) annual black-tie Charity Preview gala on Jan. 16.  The band will entertain Charity Preview attendees at 9 p.m. in Cobo Arena with doors opening at 8:30 p.m.

 

“The Doobie Brothers performing at Charity Preview will make this truly a night to remember for our guests,” said Joe Serra, senior co-chair of the 2009 NAIAS.  “Adding a band like this with their history and caliber to the evening’s festivities is a perfect fit for a fun night for Detroiters while supporting 12 local children’s charities.”

Those attending must present their Charity Preview ticket stub at the entrance to Cobo Arena to see the Doobie Brothers performance.  Seating and standing room will be available at the performance along with food and refreshments.

Since it began in 1976, Charity Preview has raised over $77 million for children’s charities in metro Detroit.  Medical treatment, clothing and support services for local kids in need all are made possible through the purchase of Charity Preview tickets.

Tickets for the event are $400 each and can be purchased by calling 888.838.7500. 

 NAIAS 2009 Official Dates

 - January 11 – 25 at Cobo Center in Detroit
 - Press Preview will be held Sunday, Jan. 11 through Tuesday, Jan. 13
 - Industry Preview will be held Wednesday, Jan. 14 and Thursday, Jan. 15
 - The annual black-tie Charity Preview gala will be held Friday evening,
   Jan. 16
 - Public Days will be held Saturday, Jan. 17 through Sunday, Jan. 25

Charity organizations that will benefit:

 Barat Child and Family Services; Boys & Girls Club of Southeastern Michigan; Boys Hope Girls Hope of Detroit; The Children’s Center; Judson Center; Children’s Services of Northeastern Guidance Center Assistance League; The Detroit Institute for Children; Think Detroit PAL; Easter Seals – Michigan; March of Dimes; Children’s Hospital of Michigan; and the DADA Charitable Foundation Fund, a fund of the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan.

 

Homegrown Snack Cracker Box Had A Little More Than Snacks

Annie’s fan Debra Rogoff of Irvine, Calif. recently got more than delicious bunnies in her $3.39 box of Annie’s Homegrown Sour Cream & Onion Cheddar Bunnies: her daughter also found a white envelope stuffed with $10,000.

After the Rogoff family called the police about their  find, they discovered that another customer purchased the same box of crackers from a  Whole Foods Market and placed the envelope inside, thinking her money would be safer there than in a bank. The woman mistakenly returned the box of crackers with the money, and the store  accidently restocked the box rather than getting rid of it.

In recognition of the Rogoff family’s good deed, Annie’s today announced a $10,000 gift to a food bank of the Rogoffs’ choice, which is Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County.

“This act of kindness by the Rogoff famiily exemplifies the values that Annie’s Homegrown stands for,” said John Foraker, chief executive officer for Annie’s, Inc. “In fact, Annie’s Homegrown’s motto is ‘Eat Responsibly. Act Responsibly.’ This donation on the Rogoffs’ behalf is an expression of our appreciation for these good-hearted and loyal Annie’s customers.”

“We are very surprised by all of the attention this has received world wide, as we are sure others would do the same thing,” said Debra Rogoff. “We believe what has resonated with people is that, deep down, we all know how we should be treating each other, even in turbulent times. It’s wonderful that Annie’s is making this generous gift to a food bank on our behalf. We are long-time Annie’s fans and have enjoyed their products for many years.”

Proof Positivity: Running Late

I’m running late this morning I just wanted to stay in bed.  Here at Proof Positivity I was on vacation and it threw me off. 

 

Walk For Your Kidneys

In EL SEGUNDO, California  an effort to raise money for The Kidney TRUST, a nonprofit organization aimed at prevention and awareness of chronic kidney disease (CKD),DaVita Inc., announced  the 3rd annual “Kidney Awareness Time” Walk-a-thon (The KAT Walk) reached more than 250,000 people, and raised more than $100,000 for CKD education programs.

This year’s DaVita KAT Walks Across America, a series of 5k walks designed to raise awareness and funds to fight chronic kidney disease, took place in 20 cities across the U.S. and offered free kidney disease evaluations and screenings courtesy of The Kidney TRUST.  Each 5k walk represents about 16,900 steps, totaling 337,900 steps traveled — roughly equivalent to the number of Americans receiving dialysis treatment for kidney failure today.

“The spirit of the walkers was amazing — gathering in all parts of the country to walk together and make a personal contribution to the fight against kidney disease. These dedicated individuals spent countless hours preparing for the walks, while raising money for the fight against kidney disease,” said Barbara L. Lawson, President of The Kidney TRUST. “All of us at The Kidney TRUST are so pleased and proud to be the beneficiary of their efforts, which will support the expansion of The Kidney TRUST’s CKD rapid-screening program currently rolling out around the U.S.”

Of the 26 million Americans with CKD, only 10 percent are aware they have the disease. Most people do not know they have CKD because early stages of the illness rarely manifest symptoms. This lack of awareness is a major reason for undertaking the DaVita KAT Walks and provides participants with the motivation and desire to educate and inform the general public. The walkers want people to know the importance of getting tested early, rather than waiting until the disease hits a late stage, requiring dialysis care or a kidney transplant.

“Our 32,000 teammates are dedicated to helping patients with chronic kidney disease not only in our dialysis centers, but within their communities as well. Thousands of our DaVita teammates raised over $100,000 for CKD awareness and education programs,” said Kent Thiry, DaVita Chairman and CEO. “We are encouraged by the success of the 2008 KAT Walks and are committed to doing even more in 2009.”

Early testing and detection gives those with CKD an opportunity to delay the disease or possibly avoid the onset of life-threatening kidney failure, which requires dialysis or a kidney transplant because there is no cure for CKD. In addition, those at high risk for CKD can help protect their kidneys by controlling high blood pressure, maintaining their blood sugar, drinking lots of water and consuming a healthy diet.

A  Jump in Labrador Retriever Adoptions Expected

A  feature film for animal lovers, 20th Century Fox’s Marley & Me, hit theaters on Christmas Day. Recent history shows the popularity of “Marley” will lead to an increase in Labrador retrievers being acquired.  Unfortunately, many of them might soon be surrendered to shelters and breed-rescue groups nationwide as families find out this particular breed just wasn’t the right fit for their lifestyle. Similar upticks in animal acquisitions happened after films such as Beethoven, 101 Dalmatians and even the more recent Beverly Hills Chihuahua.

The American Humane Association and 20th Century Fox have launched a public-awareness campaign about the increased relinquishment of specific breeds of animals after they have been featured in blockbuster movies. Too many dogs are given up after reality sets in about how much responsibility or care they require, or that their needs are diametrically different than the person or families who acquired them.

American Humane and 20th Century Fox want people to know that when it comes to getting a pet, they should consider adopting from the millions of animals that end up in shelters each year.

“American Humane is working collaboratively with 20th Century Fox on vital animal issues and we’re particularly excited about our combined efforts to raise national awareness about the importance of adopting animals from shelters and breed-rescue groups,” said Marie Belew Wheatley, president and CEO of American Humane.

The main dog that plays “Marley” in the film is, himself, a dog from a rescue – proving that great dogs can be found at our nation’s shelters. In the movie, “Marley” chews, shreds and wreaks havoc, but his unconditional love inspires.

This isn’t so far fetched.  In my own life time I’ve had many puppies and the excuse “The dog ate my homework”  Is very possible. 

“In the case of the dog in Marley & Me, what you see is what you might get,” said Wheatley. “It’s important for potential pet owners to keep this in mind when deciding whether to adopt a dog.”

When adopting an animal, American Humane suggests people research specific dog breeds to ensure the new pet will fit their lifestyle. Before adopting a Labrador, American Humane encourages people to determine whether a Lab is right for them.

 Just the Lab Facts:
 –  Labs are the most popular breed in the U.S.
 –  They can develop slowly and continue puppy-like behavior even past age
     two.
 –  Labs can be wonderful companion dogs for active families.
 –  Many animal shelters and rescues have a large variety of Lab mixes
     available for adoption.
 –  Black Labs and Lab mixes tend to be adopted less often than other
     dogs.
 –  Labs are multi-talented and can excel in animal-assisted therapy,
     swimming, retrieving and much more.

 

Please be informed when you adopt a pet.   It’s not fair to the animal to have a nice home and then have the home taken away.

Proof Positivity: Time To Prepare For The New Year

With the new year resolutions are made.  I’ve come to the resolution not to make resolutions.  That has been the only one I am able to keep.  When I am making the decision to lose weight I am going to do that when I feel ready to do so otherwise I feel like I’m setting myself up for failure.   

If you  want to get a little more bang for your buck then you have to learn to manage your money.  If you’re in debt I suggest Consumer Credit Conseling.   I would not consider what my family is in in debt.  Most of our bills are in medical expenses and we just finished paying off a lot of back debt.  You can get out of debt without a counselor.  Here is how we did it.  First, we had to figure out what we owe.  We did this from getting a credit check that covers all three of the major credit companies TransUnion, Eqifax, and Experian.  There will be phone numbers of different  agencies call them and begin negotiating.  Don’t just accept your $1,000 bill.  You are in debt and can’t pay your bills to begin with.  These people have been looking at your debt for so long that they truly don’t expect you to pay any of it.  Get them to knock the debt down to half that cost or more.  I’ve done 50% but I’ve heard stories of people who only had 10% of the bill to pay.  Once you are done with negotiations be sure to get the agreement in writing.  In some areas laws are geared toward the bill collector and not the consumer.  The written agreement will help keep you from getting into further financial trouble.  They like to pull some sneaky things on people to make you pay the full bill even after the agreement is made.   Verbal word is hearsay and you can’t prove that that was the agreement made.  Written word can prove your case.

 

Credit cards need to be thrown out.  You don’t need to keep racking up the bill and they overcharge anyway.  Saving money for a big purchase is what you are supposed to do.  You need to think to yourself ” Is this a want or a need?”  What you need are food, clothing, shelter, and water.  Anything beyond that is a want.  Applying for more credit cards is bad.  If you can’t get a card and you keep applying and applying this affects your score.  Saving up is the best way to go.

 

Friendship Has A Lot To Do With Charity

 

In Nora, Sweden An international book project brought about by Norwegian charity, Echo 2012 aiming at portraying children’s views on friendship has been launched under the auspices of Swedish publishing group, Bombadil Publishing.

   Children from 27 countries are joining together in an unusual project to write and illustrate to the topic of  “What does a friend do?”  The book will be translated into 12 languages and takes an active look into the idea of friendship, promotes the idea of camaraderie and communication between people of all ages. There are 27 participating countries in this event.

 

   The proceeds from the book sales will be spent helping participating charity partners in their work in promoting global friendship through understanding and communication as well as on combating illiteracy.
Part of the revenue will also be distributed as royalties among the contributing youth authors and artists in accordance with Bombadil Publishing’s policy.

 

   The book is estimated to sell in excess of three million copies and its preliminary release date of September 2009 will be preceded and succeeded by charity festivals, exhibitions and various friendship and knowledge enhancing
activities for young people.

   Bombadil Publishing is a  youth-to-youth publisher with headquarters in Sweden and has been revolutionising children’s approach to reading since its foundation just over a year ago by allowing them to take a
leading part in the literary and commercial process of book creation. Bombadil Publishing publishes books written by young people for young people, with the aim of allowing them to share their stories, visions and dreams.  Bombadil Publishing is proud to be associated with Echo 2012’s efforts to spread global friendship and understanding through communication, and sees its participation in this project as a manifestation of the endeavour to promote, encourage and endorse young people’s interest in books and their strive for democracy through freedom of thought.

Proof Positivity: Going On Vacation

 I will not be writing for Proof Positivity for the rest of the week.  I need to do a lot of family things such as make Christmas cookies, wrap Christmas presents and hide them, listen to Christmas music…  Speaking of  Christmas music here is my list of Christmas music that makes a difference:

Do They Know It’s Christmas Time For Band Aide  Live Aide  On July 13, 1985 a multi-venue rock music concert was held to raise funds for famine relief in Ethiopia.

Happy Christmas (War is Over)  This song was recorded by John Lennon in 1971 and was his reaction to Vietnam. 

We Are The World USA for Africa  Profits  went to the USA for Africa Foundation, which used them for the relief of famine and disease in Africa and specifically to 1984–1985 famine in Ethiopia.

USA for Africa also promoted Hands across America.  To be a part of the human chain you had to donate $10 to be a part of it approximately 7 million people held hands. The   money raised was used to fight hunger and homelessness in America.

Earth Song Is Micheal Jackson’s song geared toward treating our Earth better.  It’s not exactly a Christmas song but it is in the spirit of giving back to our planet what we have taken away from it.

 

Volunteering at a Soup Kitchen

On December 12, ScienceFirst staff members served food to more than 250 New Jersey residents in need.  The group spent over 3 hours at the soup kitchen, and all appreciated working for a company that let them take time out of their workday to help others. Besides serving the food, the group assisted with preparing the food, creating healthy portions, and communicating with those in need.

A soup kitchen is just one of many ways in which to make a difference.  I think I have finally thought of a way to incorporate community service for my own children.  Since I am making cookies anyway I think I’m going to take a box to Ronald McDonald House on Thursday.  I remember what it was like not being home after the birth of my son and all the people who donated food really helped out because we didn’t plan on being there.  So, cookies will be my gift that my children and I will share.

I hope you all have a wonderful holiday.

Proof Positivity: Toys That Are Safe

  Toys that are safe are important to us parents.  Recently, I threw out a bunch of Barbies made in  China.  More and more it seems child safety isn’t as important to large toy manufacturers as it once was.  These toy manufacturers that were once American and had safety regulations placed on them, now are in places where the regulations aren’t up to the high standards that we were used to.  Toys with lead paint in them has become an issue, one that I myself am not willing to risk.  I now look on the boxes to see where my child’s toy is made.  I hold nothing against any country but I love my children and the past speaks for itself. 

Timethief from One Cool Site: WordPress Blogging Tips and This Time This Space  pointed me to a discussion on BC.  “HealthyToys.org  is an ever-growing database maintained by the non-profit Ecology Center, which, along with other research groups, uses X-ray technology to detect lead, PVC (polyvinyl chloride, aka the poison plastic), and a few other heavy metals and chemicals, in both plastic and wood toys. Healthy Toys just released its latest tests on 1,500 toys and found that lead was present in 20 percent of them, with kid’s jewelry having the highest levels, and PVC was used in 27 percent. On the positive side, the Center noticed a 50-percent reduction in toys with elevated lead levels in this year’s tests over last year’s.”

Timethief listed a few other sites for safe toys:  Rosie Hippo, Oompa, Moolka.com, The Green Guide, and GenGreen life.

Here are a few of my own suggestions: If you are the crafty sort and your clothes are too out of shape to send off to a second hand store why not save them and make a toy out of them.  Go to an appliance store and ask them for large cardboard boxes.  Bring them home staple, them tape them, whatever it takesThen have your children decorate it with markers, crayons, tempra paint, fabric, and even rope to make a playhouse. You can make puppets and kids don’t mind that you made these things.  Most children only care about brand name toys because of the commercials on tv.   My own kids will play with an empty pop bottle and be perfectly happy.

 

You can also sign a petition to ban toxic phthalates “Earlier this year, Congress passed a tough new law that would make it illegal to sell lead and chemically tainted children’s products. But now, some companies are saying they can’t meet the deadline – and they want to keep selling some of their toxic children’s toys after they’re supposed to stop!”

 Please be informed if you are to sign this petition here is a sight that is against the petition.

Helping Children out a Big Lots

Big Lots, the nation’s largest broadline closeout retailer, will spread holiday cheer as it helps the U.S. Marines and Santa deliver toys to needy children across the country.

“Providing toys to children in need is one of the true joys of the season,” said CEO Steve Fishman. “Our partnership with Toys for Tots enables us to bring hope and happiness to families across America.”

Big Lots has been a loyal corporate sponsor of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Campaign since 1994, holding  toy collection drives at local stores. The company also provides special discounted pricing on new toys to the Toys for Tots Foundation through its Granted Wishes Program.

The Big Lots Toys for Tots drive, along with other donations, helped the Foundation distribute over 20 million new toys to needy youngsters last year.

“Over the years, Big Lots has helped us ensure that millions of deserving children could experience the thrill of unwrapping a special gift during the holidays,” said Lieutenant General H. P. Osman, USMC (Ret.), Marine Toys for Tots Foundation President & CEO. “Their contributions and leadership over the past 14 years have made a positive difference in lives of many families.”

This year,  the Foundation has experienced a dramatic increase in toy requests. “More people will be turning to Toys for Tots to help them deliver the magic of the season,” said Rob Claxton, Big Lots Senior VP of Marketing. “We want to make it as easy as possible for the American public to join us in making sure that every child has a present from Santa under the tree.”

Through December 24, Big Lots customers and associates can drop their gift of a new toy into the familiar Toys for Tots donation barrels at many of the 1,300+ Big Lots locations nationwide. Even though Big Lots has a non-solicitation policy at all of its stores, the company is proud to continue its tradition of community service through strategic alliances with national non-profit organizations such as Toys for Tots and The Salvation Army.

Proof Positivity: Walsh Case Closed

Finally, the Walsh case has closed.  Since the tragity of  the murder of John Walsh’s  son  a lot of good has come from it.  John Walsh started America’s Most Wanted because of it  by 1995 350 profiled criminals have been captured and stronger child laws are in place.  John Walsh and his family are strong advocates for children and he is a good example of turning a horribly bad thing into a positive thing.  The Walsh family advocated for Missing Children Act of 1982  and the Missing Children’s Assistance Act of 1984.    The Walsh family also founded Adam Walsh Child Resource Center, a non-profit organization dedicated to legislative reform.  Previous to the Amber Alert we had Code Adam.  On July 27, 2006 the  Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act  was signed into legislation.

 

Honoring America’s Heroes

 

This week, the Coalition to Salute America’s Heroes, a not-for-profit dedicated to helping severely wounded veterans of the War on Terror, brought more than 150 severely wounded veterans, their families and  caregivers to the 5th Annual Road to Recovery Conference & Tribute, Sunday Dec. 7 through Thursday, Dec. 11 at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort in Orlando, FL.

 

The all-expense-paid event featured medical and career counseling, an adaptive sports clinic, motivational speakers, musical entertainment, and an opportunity to share inspirational success stories and form a lasting network of support.

“Tens of thousands of American troops have returned home from Iraq and Afghanistan severely wounded, struggling to heal from physical and mental wounds, pay for medical and other bills, and re-enter civilian life,” said Dan Vargas, director of the CSAH Family Support Network.

Highlights of the Road to Recovery Conference included:

Adaptive Sports Clinic -  included adaptive skiing, snowboarding, rock climbing, and mountain biking, was adapted for use by amputees, the blind, and those with traumatic brain injury, not only served as a form of physical, but also psychological therapy.

Career Fair – Helping attendees transition from a military to a civilian lifestyle, the conference featured a job fair, resume writing and interviewing skills classes, and an employment panel, which led to successful job placements for veterans.

Entertainment – Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band, the Vandel-Snook Band, and artist Dan Dunn wowed the crowd, while up-and-coming country music star, wounded veteran and conference attendee Stephen Cochran surprised his fellow veterans and their families with a performance at the closing ceremony. Veterans were also given tickets to Walt Disney World, where they were able to share much needed quality time with their families.

Counseling Sessions – CSAH and a team of counselors from the Department of Veterans Affairs provided counseling sessions for the veterans, their spouses, caregivers and children to enable interactive conversation and facilitate the creation of a lasting support network to aid in the recovery process.

“There’s nothing the Coalition to Salute America’s Heroes won’t do for a disabled vet,” said Ssgt. Matthew Keil, a disabled Army veteran who attended the conference with his wife Tracy. “This is the only place where we have been able to meet others who understand what we’re going through and find the right kind of support that we need. I’m with 150 families here that understand me and get it.”

Proof Positivity: Santa Around The Corner

My kids went to see Santa yesterday.  This Santa is a really good Santa with the proper Santa laugh.  Anyhow that is why there was no post yesterday.  My kids come first and they did have a good time.  They saw a group of children who were nervous sing, ate Taco Bell and Dairy Queen, saw Santa and the baby got to walk around the mall for the first time.  I put him on a leash for the freedom it would give him and so I don’t loose him.

 

If you want to know where Santa is at on Christmas eve Norad keeps track of that.  Do you think inflation affects Santa?  I don’t know Santa does have to shop for every child in the world maybe Bill Gates is an elf in disguise.  

 

What do you think of adopting a wild pet? Chipangali Wildlife Orpanage gives an opportunity for adoption.  Maybe not so much as an adoption, you would expect to keep a pet you adopted, more like a sponsorship.  You can’t keep a lion in your back yard your neighbors might not be happy with you. 

Function of Chipangali:

1. Wildlife Orphanage/ Animal Rehabilitation Centre: To provide a service  to rescue and care for injured wildlife, thereby providing a home for the many injured, sick, orphaned, abused, confiscated or abandoned wild animals from anywhere in Zimbabwe.

2. Education: to educate the Zimbabwe public, especially young children, with the aid of live viewing of many species not easily seen in the wild. Provide relevant lectures, film and slide shows for visiting groups. Thus providing a local resource centre for children to appreciate the important value of Zimbabwe’s natural heritage.

3. Nature Conservation: to teach people and especially children, to appreciate the wonder and variety of indigenous wildlife and not to take it for granted that these animals or their environment will not always be there for their enjoyment without the correct management of our natural resources.

4. Research: to observe and record useful zoological information on captive animals such as body growth and development, nutrition, dentition and gestation periods. Relevant research and field surveys are undertaken in the wild, under natural conditions in National Parks and protected areas.

5. Cooperation: To provide a link between local and governmental authorities thus being able to offer assistance to organizations like SPCA, National Parks, schools and private individuals where ever problem animals are concerned.

 

Very Little To Eat

  As people in the UK receive Christmas cards, today many working animals in West Africa, the only card
they’ll ever receive is cardboard scraps to eat.

 One of the world’s oldest veterinary charities (SPANA – Society for the Protection of Animals Abroad) explained that many working horses and donkeys in the West African country of Mauritania never get to eat straw or grass as
it simply costs too much for their impoverished owners. Instead, they have to make do with a nosebag full of chopped cardboard.

 

   Jeremy Hulme, SPANA’s chief executive said: “Cardboard contains large amounts of cellulose, so working animals can eat and digest it as a useful fibre source but given the hard lives they lead it gives them little in the way of energy. If they are lucky they might get their cardboard scraps mixed with a few grains of sorghum or cattle feed.

 

   “When SPANA began work in Mauritania, the average life expectancy of a donkey was just a few months. But our vets have dramatically reduced mortality rates through the provision of regular veterinary care, delivered via a mobile clinic for non-urgent cases, or a longer stay in SPANA’s refuge for more serious injuries or illnesses.

 

   “There are still problems – hungry working animals will still scavenge amongst the rubbish and eat plastic bags, bits of rope, bottle tops and even glass. Through our education programme we are making owners more aware of the
problems, and that is having a direct positive impact on the welfare of their animals.”

 

   SPANA was founded in 1923 by two intrepid British women, Kate and Nina Hosali. Then, as now, it focuses on providing veterinary care to working animals in the knowledge that they play a vital role in supporting poor
families and communities. Working animals still provide livelihoods for millions of people and communities around the world, but if they fall sick or ill, it can mean the difference between a family having food on the table or
going to be hungry.

SPANA now runs 19 veterinary centres and 21 mobile veterinary clinics in countries like Mauritania, Mali, Morocco, Ethiopia, Jordan and Syria.

 

 More and more SPANA has been asked to intervene in emergency situations and has  operated veterinary missions in Chad and Darfur, Kosovo, Iraq, Zimbabwe, and East Africa during the severe drought in 2006. It is currently
working with the UNHCR on an innovative livestock and livelihood project in Chad looking at livestock and working animals belonging to refugees from Darfur.

 

Usually when I think of hunger and poverty I only think of  humans.    Maybe it’s ignorance on my part but the health of the animals is important.  If the animals are sick that may be a food source gone for some families.  They probably need donkeys to garden and if they can’t garden then there is no food.

 

PRNewswire

Proof Positivity: A Great Gift Idea

 My kids are out of school and I will work on making gifts, chocolate  chip cookies.  I will be making lots and lots of cookies to give out.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Ingredients

• 3/4 cup sugar
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 cup butter, softened
• 2 large eggs,beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
• if desired, 1 cup chopped pecans

 

Directions:

 

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.  Mix sugar, brown sugar, butter, vanilla and eggs in a large bowl by hand.  Stir in flour, baking soda, and salt.  The dough will be very stiff.  Stir in chocolate chips and pecans if desired.  Drop dough by rounded tablespoonfuls 2 inches apart onto ungreased cookie sheet.  Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until light brown.  The centers will be soft.  Let cool completely then remove from cookie sheet.

 

Some variations on this recipe that I use are to add baking chocolate and give it white chocolate chips or Andes Mints chips.

 

Ring In The New Year In An Unusual Way

There are a lot of unusual ways to bring in the new year.  If you feel like doing things a little different and you don’t feel like watching the ball drop in New York  here are some new ideas for you.

 1. Triple Crown: Key West, Florida

Featuring three free countdown celebrations, the toughest decision for New Year’s in Key West is whether to watch the conch, drag queen, or pirate wench descend at midnight. The revelrous Duval Street hosts two of the celebrations, including the 16th annual conch shell drop from the roof of Sloppy Joe’s Bar and the lowering of a local legend, Drag Queen Sushi, in her glittering six-foot tall red high-heel shoe at the Bourbon Street Pub. Along the harbor, the Schooner Wharf Bar lowers a costumed “pirate wench” from 70 feet atop the schooner “Liberty Clipper.”

2. Peep Show: Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Although Bethlehem, Pennsylvania is widely recognized for its Christmas attractions, the city’s New Year’s Eve Peep drop has been a sweet tradition for three years running. During Bethlehem’s First Night celebration, a 25-pound fiberglass illuminated Peep is dropped from a crane at midnight. With as many as 30,000 people expected this year, entertainment starts early in the afternoon with tons of family-friendly entertainment, including a performance from children dressed as “peep-ettes.” Tickets to the First Night Celebration are $15 for adults, $10 for children.

3. A Fish Story: Port Clinton, Ohio

Each year, thousands of people from across the U.S. descend on the small town of Port Clinton, Ohio for the free “Madness at Midnight Walleye Drop.” Now in its 14th year, the self-proclaimed “Walleye Capital of the World” drops a 20-foot, 600-pound fiberglass walleye fish named Wylie from the sky at midnight. In 2007, the event joined forces with the Ohio State Lottery and this year plans to announce four $1 million prizes on live television from the event.

4. Picklepalooza: Mount Olive, North Carolina

This year marks the 10th anniversary of Mount Olive’s pickle drop, where a three-foot tall, glowing pickle makes a 45-foot plunge down the Mount Olive Pickle Company’s flagpole into a redwood pickle tank. Up to 2,000 attendees congregate each year to watch the pickle drop spectacle at 7 p.m. (midnight Greenwich Mean Time.) In addition to the main event, this free hour-long pickle party includes plenty of complimentary dills and the popular “Pickle Polka,” leading to the famous plunge.

5. Sausage Fest: Elmore, Ohio

Inspired by the town’s longest running business, Tank’s Meats, Elmore’s locals drop a brilliantly lit, 18-foot sausage from the sky to welcome in the New Year. First devised in 2001 to celebrate the town’s 150th birthday, the sausage drop returned to the forefront of Elmore lore with the 2006 New Year’s Eve celebration, and attracts as many as 1,200 people annually. With zany events like a raw sausage toss, the sausage eating contest and a “dress your dog” contest for children, this free celebration is affectionately regarded as the “wurst” in the area.

6. My Bologna Has a New Year’s Celebration: Lebanon, Pennsylvania

Weighing in at 120 pounds, Lebanon’s seven-and-a-half-foot edible bologna has been the star of this town’s New Year’s Eve celebration for more than seven years. This free annual celebration includes a deejay and enlists the help of a city fire department ladder truck to lower the super-sized bologna at midnight. Following the celebration, the bologna, which is made locally by the Weaver-Kutztown Bologna Company, is donated to area charities.

7. Champagne Wishes and Gumbo Pot Dreams: New Orleans, Louisiana

Following Hurricane Katrina, the city of New Orleans added a new tradition to their annual New Year’s Eve celebration by dropping a paper mache gumbo pot at midnight. As part of a free outdoor event in Jackson Square organized by the Crescent City Countdown Club, local musicians play popular music, including the fight songs for both college football teams playing in the city’s Sugar Bowl on January 2nd. At midnight, fireworks go off along the Mississippi River, accompanying the majestic gumbo pot drop.

8. Shell of a Party: Easton, Maryland

For the past five years, First Night Talbot in Easton, Maryland has been ringing in the new year with a giant crab drop. Around 1,500 people come out to see the monstrous replica of a steamed red crab, descend at both 9 p.m. for the children and again at midnight for the official New Year’s celebration. Easton’s First Night also includes seven venues, 125 performers and a mini-train that circles most of the events. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students and free admission for children under five.

9. Hanker for a Hunk of Cheese: Plymouth, Wisconsin

In a town known for producing high quality cheese, it’s no surprise that Plymouth, Wisconsin rings in the New Year by dropping a big hunk of their beloved dairy product at midnight. Sadly, the cheese is not edible, but it’s still an impressive sight. Plymouth’s cheese drop takes place in the Plymouth Art Center parking lot and is free to the public. While complimentary refreshments are served, visitors have to bring their own real cheese.

10. Nutty New Year’s: Raleigh, North Carolina

During the city’s First Night celebration, Raleigh, North Carolina borrows a 1,250 pound copper acorn from the city’s Moore Square to star in the New Year’s countdown from atop their civic center. Known as the “City of Oaks,” Raleigh has been dropping this massive acorn for the past 18 years — once at 7:30 p.m. and again at midnight. Tickets to First Night Raleigh are $12 for adults, $10 for kids and admission is free for children under five.

“While New York City’s famous ball drop in Times Square is a spectacular sight, there are other uniquely wonderful ways Americans can ring in the New Year,” said Michele Perry, vice president of global communications for TripAdvisor, “While they range from clever to wacky, it’s clear that New Year’s Eve is about celebrating traditions and enjoying the company of a crowd.”

 

PRNewswire

Proof Positivity: Snowflakes

I’m not able to add a picture this morning WordPress must be doing something else. I’m starting to get annoyed with the constant changes. When I tried to upload my picture it didn’t upload. My anti-virus software told me that it just protected my computer from an attack.

Have you ever really tried to look closely at a snowflake? They are a lot like people they are very complex and not a single one is exactly alike. Do you remember being a child and catching them on your toungue? When I was about 4 my two aunt made me an igloo. I would play for hours in that igloo. When it began to melt it was the last thing to go. All of the snow was gone but my igloo still stood. Spring time came and finally my igloo began to melt.

A True Happy Holiday

Benitz, the chief of neonatology at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital at Stanford, was describing an extraordinary and intense collaboration by doctors from Packard and Stanford Hospital & Clinics that rescued a young mom from death – and also saved her premature baby. Now, Michelle Mattingly, husband Leonard and daughter Elektra are thankfully celebrating baby John’s first Christmas, a holiday that almost didn’t happen for mom or baby.

Doctors had no idea whether they could rescue Michelle from liver-failure-induced coma and death, let alone save the baby who was still 14 weeks before his due date. The doctors at both hospitals believe that never before have back-to-back cesarean and liver transplant surgeries rescued both a mother so ill and an infant so premature.

“We were treading into unknown territory,” said Maurice Druzin, MD, the obstetrician who delivered John. Druzin is chief of obstetrics at Packard Children’s and a specialist in high-risk deliveries.

On Aug. 3. Michelle was nausious and in pain when she and Leonard came to Packard Children’s labor and delivery department. The couple wanted to be sure everything was OK for Michelle and their eagerly awaited son. As the Packard staff monitored Michelle, they detected an alarming spike in her blood that pointed to liver failure. They rushed her next door to the adult intensive care unit at Stanford Hospital. Over the next several hours, Michelle’s liver stopped filtering toxins from her bloodstream.

On Aug. 4, the toxic build-up in her blood caused her to slip into a coma. As Michelle grew sicker, Stanford’s adult liver transplantation team carefully evaluated her case. After determining that the liver failure was not caused by pregnancy, the team decided against an immediate cesarean.

“With the mother in that condition, she would have died from a cesarean, no question,” said Carlos Esquivel, MD, PhD, chief of the division of transplantation surgery at Packard Children’s and Stanford. “Patients in liver failure cannot tolerate the stress of surgery.” The liver makes blood clotting factors, and Michelle’s clotting-factor levels were so low that her risk of bleeding to death during cesarean was extreme. With her pregnancy just 6 months along, an immediate cesarean risked the baby’s life, too. Leonard Mattingly and Michelle’s doctors had to make some difficult choices.

“We decided we would do whatever it took to save Michelle, even if it meant losing the baby,” said Tami Daugherty, MD, a clinical assistant professor of gastroenterology and hepatology at Stanford who coordinated Michelle’s care by the transplant team. They hoped they could ensure Michelle’s safe return to her life as a homemaker and mom to daughter Elektra.

On Aug. 5, the doctors decided to stabilize Michelle and wait for a donor liver, placing her on the national list for an urgent transplant. They gave her steroids to help the baby’s lungs mature and transfused blood to reduce her levels of blood toxins and raise her clotting factor levels. It was a race against time, as a donor organ was needed before Michelle died or suffered permanent brain damage from the toxins in her blood.

“They told us we had 72 hours to get her a new liver,” said Leonard, who is stationed with the U.S. Navy in Sunnyvale, Calif.

By Aug. 6, the transplant team had rejected two successive donor livers. The first did not match Michelle’s immune system; the second contained cancerous cells.

Then, on Aug. 8, with time running out, a third liver became available. “They told me if that liver wasn’t a match, Michelle’s chances were very slim,” Leonard said.

The organ matched. At 11:03 a.m. Aug. 8, Druzin’s high-risk obstetrics team delivered John, who was rushed to Packard, where he was cared for by Benitz and colleagues in the neonatal intensive care unit. Esquivel’s transplant team immediately began operating to give Michelle a new liver. The transplant worked.

“To end up with the mom and child surviving all this is unbelievable,” said Esquivel. “The strength of being at a place like Packard and Stanford is the ability to have world experts in all fields, both pediatric and adult, collaborate on very complex cases like this,” Druzin added.

After the operation, Michelle spent about a month in the hospital, gradually regaining awareness and healing from her surgeries. As a preemie, John stayed nearly three months at Packard Children’s before his mom, dad and sister welcomed him home in November.

Michelle is still adjusting to her unexpected transplant and the unexpected birth of her son while she was in a coma. “When I was told what happened, I thought, OK, it’s done,” she said. “I wasn’t mad or angry. I just thought, what am I supposed to learn from this? What can I teach someone else?” One thing is certain. Her entire family has a new appreciation for organ donation. “You don’t realize what it means until you see it in action,” Leonard said.

“We’re going to go a little crazy with gifts for the kids,” Michelle said happily. “It’s definitely their Christmas this year, and we are very, very thankful.”

PrNewswire

Proof Positivity: Party Time!

To listen to this post click here

President Bush was caught having a Christmas party with a crowd of children.  They say he looked more relaxed than he has in a long time.  I can’t say I’m sad to see him go.  In fact I’m thrilled to see him go. 

I won’t throw all of my views on this here it wouldn’t serve this site very well and it would not end quite as happy as you would expect of this site. 

I will just walk away from the rest of my thoughts and get on with the news.

Competition to Promote Smart Teen Driving

 A group of teens from spread good cheer and smart driving messages through one of the first contests of its kind called “Holiday Holla,” Dillon Craig, 18, Jeremy Glick, 17, and Sam Feil, 17, from Visalia, Calif., won $10,000 from The Allstate Foundation, and were recognized for their creativity in being smart driving advocates. Craig, Glick and Feil performed, along with four other teams, their version of the holiday carol Jingle Bells with smart driving lyrics in front of recording artist Kate Voegele and hundreds of holiday shoppers at the Mall of America, in Bloomington, Minn., on Dec. 6. The teens’ song, “Watch the Road,” discusses the dangers of speeding, drinking while driving, talking on cell phones and not wearing aseat belt.

 

“It  was cool to perform in front of so many people with an important message, but more than anything, we want our friends and family to be safe whenever they’re on the road, especially during the holidays,” said Sam Feil, one of the grand prize winners. “The fact that our team just won $10,000, and may have helped save some lives at the same time is pretty amazing.”

With the goal of saving lives  for teen drivers, The Allstate Foundation — through its national teen-to-teen smart driving movement, Keep the Drive — challenged teens from across the country to rewrite and perform (or “holla”) holiday carols with new, catchy lyrics about smart driving. From among the many entries, teens voted on their favorites and the top five most popular performers were selected to belt it out at the finalist event during which a panel of teen and celebrity judges selected the grand prize winner.

“Car crashes are the No. 1 killer of teens,” said Voegele. “That’s a scary fact, but it’s something young drivers have the power to change. It’s great for me to have this forum to reach out to teen drivers to promote smart driving in a fun way, especially during the holidays. Hopefully teens will start to think twice before doing something dangerous, like text messaging while driving.”

The Holiday Holla event culminated with Voegele presenting the teens with the $10,000 grand prize followed by a performance of four of her songs made famous by “One Tree Hill.”

Tomaso DeNoia, 17, Kim Kasten, 17, and Brooke Davenport, 18, of Tom’s River, N.J. took second place with a prize of $5,000.  Emily Twohig, 14, Sara Sweeney, 14, and Alexa Erickson, 14, from Woodbury, Minn. won $3,000 for third place.

 

 Driving Tips for Teens
 1  Keep your eyes on the road. According to a national survey of teens
    conducted by The Allstate Foundation, 56 percent of teens talk on their
    cell phones while driving, and 13 percent read or write text messages.
    Distracted driving is a major cause of crashes. Make it a goal to
    celebrate 2009 with your friends instead of the mortician.
 2  Slow down. The survey also found nearly 90 percent of teens admit to
    speeding. Speeding is one of the main causes for teen car crashes. Be a
    rebel and drive the speed limit this holiday season.
 3  “Holla” at your friends. Half of teens from the survey said they
    wouldn’t speak up if a friend were driving recklessly. Would you speak
    up if your life were in danger? If not, make a New Year’s resolution to
    grow a backbone.
 4  Use your buckle. Roughly two-thirds of teens who die in car wrecks are
    not buckled up, reports the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
    This season, give your friends the gift of life and tell them to buckle
    up!
 Tips for Parents on How to “Holla” about Smart Driving in the New Year
 1  Practice what you preach. Be a positive role model when you’re behind
    the wheel. Your teen is more likely to be a calm driver, put down the
    phone and MP3 player, wear a seat belt and follow the rules of the road
    if they see you do the same.
 2  Don’t rush the training process. Just because teens have permits or
    licenses doesn’t mean they’re ready for every driving condition. The
    roads are especially dangerous during bad weather. By easing into the
    training process, you’ll ensure your teen will be ready for most
    situations.
 3  Empower your teen. Being a passenger in another teen’s car can put your
    teen at risk. Make sure your teen knows it’s okay to say something if
    he or she is uncomfortable while riding with a friend, and help your
    teen to practice what to say in these situations.
 4  Understand your state’s laws. Every state has Graduated Driver
    Licensing to help new drivers get their initial on-the-road driving
    experience under lower-risk conditions, protecting them while they are
    learning. Familiarize yourself and your teen with these requirements,
    and establish your own rules for when, where, how and with whom your
    teen may drive.

 

Teen driving stats

Tips for parents and teens

To become smart driving activist

Proof Positivity: Writing Like Crazy!

Writing like crazy  Ispeech

I’ve been writing like crazy.  I wrote an article for Angels magazine about why you should serve your community.    I’ve written another about The Heart of Rock ‘N’ Roll.  I have other articles coming up as well  which I need to work on.  I don’t want to give anything away so be looking for it.  

 

In my region it finally started to snow on Saturday but it has already melted off.  I keep looking for that perfect time to take the kids outside to go sledding but we seem to always be busy.   My husband and I had a workshop we had to attend for Habitat for Humanity on the day it snowed,  the day after grocery shopping.  

 

Speaking of  Habitat I’ve created a new blog called My Habitat Home.  I wanted someplace that is all about our home and not so much about my emotions on day to day life and since we are half way to getting our home I thought now was the perfect time.  On this new site you will be able to see our home from ground up.  There will be nothing else on this site but things concerning our home.

 

I created ablog for my son.  That was an idea brought out of necessity.  There are so many papers that we want to keep but they create clutter.  I thought what if I scan them and put them on a blog.  Then, I can throw out the originals because I will always have a copy.  I like to keep everything so this is good for me.  I’ll have to do the same for my other children. 

 

Not Just a Hero On TV

Greg Grunberg from Heroes isn’t a mind reader in real life but he is still a Hero.  His 12 year old son has epilepsy, which he has been living with  for five years.  Greg was joined by Epilepsy Advocates from around the country at the L.I.V.E. event in Seattle, WA to share their stories and educate and provide support to the community of people living with epilepsy in Seattle. 

 

Greg has joined forces with other families through UCB’s Epilepsy Advocate program, with a shared mission to encourage people living with epilepsy to refuse to be defined by it, and to expect and demand the best care.

The Epilepsy Advocate program aims to encourage people living with epilepsy to interact with other people who have had similar experiences, to learn from one another and to make positive changes in each other’s lives. The program is also designed to inspire people living with epilepsy to expect and demand the best care. It is sponsored by global bio-pharmaceutical leader, UCB, Inc., as part of the company’s commitment to families living with epilepsy.

 

There is an image which says about everything.   As someone who is all for children’s rights I feel this is an important site.  I can’t tell you what it’s about because I want to keep this site at a “G” rating but parental advisory is recommended.

Proof Positivity: Contagious

My WordPress account is going through some changes behind the scenes.   Forgive me if things don’t look quite right  this morning.  The changes from my side of things look great but I am looking for some things as I write. 

Happy could be contagious.  I hope I’m communicable.  The world needs a good dose of happy.  I hope my site finds you in good spirits and if you’re not happy, I hope you are by the time you leave.  Good things do happen in the world every day it’s just a matter of finding those good things.   I believe if we focus more on the positives and the things that are going well in our world we will be happier for it and healthier.

Serving your community has a lot of benefits.   So, why not do something?  It doesn’t have to be a large thing and if it makes you happy you could be affecting hundreds of people.  Told you it’s contagious.  So, show the world your smile and a positive outlook  and remember it’s all about Ya-ttitude.

 

Mercy Corps

 

Which is worth more a diamond for Christmas or a goat?  A diamond is beautiful but really it’s useless.  It does nothing just sits in a piece of  jewelry and shines in all it’s glory.  A goat on the other hand can give a child calcium through its milk.  A family can sell its fur creating cashmere to provide an income.  Mercy Corps is helping to provide things like goats , pigs, and even wells.

Mercy Kits is a easy way for people to give a gift and honor a friend or loved-one by supporting innovative humanitarian programs, including breastfeeding education in Indonesia, helping women start businesses and more.

“With Mercy Kits, gift-givers can thoughtfully pay tribute to friends and loved ones while helping alleviate suffering, poverty and oppression in communities around the world,” says Joy Portella, Communications Director for Mercy Corps.

Why not check out a Mercy Kit online gift catalog. You can also purchase Mercy Kits by phone by calling 1-800-292-3355 x250.

Proof Positivity: Good Deeds In The Air

One of the things I love about “tis the season is everyone seems a little more nice.  Things that people normally don’t do are a tradition.  It would be so wonderful if we all could take that first step to something wonderful like my friend Robin.

 

 Dare To Dream

By: robinj

My partner and I watched a program on CNN about everyday people making a different in the lives of others and after a while I began to become aware of the fact the only difference between me and them was they had taken the first step. Most of us sit back and look at these everyday heroes and think I could do that but there is always a ‘but’ that prevents us from taking the first step. But I do not have the time, but I do not have the money, but I do not have the skills and so forth those who step forward focus what they hope to achieve not what they cannot achieve. My partner and I decided to take a step we started with a small reachable goal to provide basic care packages to 100 women in shelters by the end of the year we gave our dream a name ironically ‘Dare to Dream’ and we set out to make hand decorated boxes with those words inscribed on each one. We then handed out the boxes to our friends and asked that they throw one small item in their grocery cart for the box each week there was no time line as to when the boxes had to filled. Now here is where the words of Mother Teresa come into effect ‘Small things done with great love will change the world’, I sent an email out to my friends hoping for their support and one person a social worker by profession picked up on our idea and was going to recommend to her agency that they start their own Dare to Dream project. So from a small act of loving kindness a ripple in the waters of humanity was created. If you are thinking of taking a small step towards an act of kindness do not think it has to be big or grand or involve thousands of people Mother Teresa took one dying man off the streets and look what that one act of random kindness started. A journey begins with a single step and a life may be changed because of it please take yours today.

 

You can also find Robin at:

I Spy With My Third Eye

The Guide To Life Blog

Keeping It Safe

 

Part of being positive is staying safe during the holidays.  Here are a few tips to keep you and your family safe this season:

• Don’t smoke while you are tired if you fall asleep that can cause a fire.
• Change the batteries in your fire alarm every six months.
• If you have a baby don’t dry your babies clothes with fabric softeners.  Fabric softeners remove the fire resistance that your babies clothing has.
• Don’t leave food unattended especially if you are cooking in oil at temperatures that are way too high.
• Stapling or nailing through extension cords may damage the wire or insulation, which could lead to an electrical shock or fire.
• Check packaging to decide the maximum number of strings of lights that may be linked together.
• Turn off electrical light strings, candles, and decorations before leaving home or going to bed.
• Use an ABC fire extinguisher.
• If you have a live tree make sure you are giving it plenty of water.  A dry tree and lights=fire.
• A fake tree should be flame retardant.

Proof Positivity: Providing Education

 What would it be like if your kids stayed home day in and day out?  What if you are too poor to offer your children books?  You would do anything for your kids but what if you didn’t have the resources to do anything?  Wouldn’t you loose a very important thing called hope?  Tamera has a solution.   You can help her send 4,000 children to school and provide much needed services that will help these children stay in school.  Can you imagine having a school where one didn’t exist?  A child who is learning to read teaching a mother or father who cannot read because of lack of education?  When you build a school it affects more than one and has a ripple effect.  Ripples are a wonderful thing.  Even if you can’t afford to donate you can Stumble her site, Digg it, Tweet it, and blog it.   If you would like to ask her a few questions she is hanging out at her blog or BlogCatalog.

A Climb Up Mt. Kilimanjaro for Charity

‘Access Hollywood’ Producer Michael Lewittes will be taking a hike up Mt. Kilimanjaro for the Kilimanjaro Education Foundation , which was founded in 2006, for the organization’s educational charitable causes. He will be led by one of Tanzania’s most experienced mountaineering guides and his team of porters from KIWISA on December 23rd.

 

“Over the past 15 years, I have traveled from one end of Africa to the other, and felt it was time to finally tackle Kilimanjaro,” said Lewittes. “And while that’s enough of a challenge, after learning from a friend about KEF and its projects for underprivileged children in Tanzania, I decided I wanted to end 2008 by reaching Kilimanjaro’s summit for charity, so that the children living at the base of the mountain can one day also reach their goals.”

Proof Positivity: Christmas Around The Corner

Christmas is right around the corner.   The crowds aren’t my cup of tea and I don’t go to the mall during this time of the year.  I avoid the craziness of this time of the year by shopping year round.  I see a sale on a porcelain thing and I think to myself this would be great for so and so.  I purchase it and put it in a large Rubbermaid crate.  Sure, you don’t get the holiday sales but things go on and off sale all year round.  Wouldn’t it be nice if you didn’t have to be pushed around waiting to get in a store?  I don’t understand why it is such a big deal to get a deal that if you look will be there again.

A few holiday sites for you: Did you know Santa is a blogger?  Your child can get a letter from Santa and lots of other fun things to do.  Oh, and Santa has a lot of blogs.  You can track Santa when he makes his journey on Christmas Eve.  Twinkleclaus is Santa’s  top elf Twinkleclause has been blogging since 2006 and you get to see the light displays of the past.

I think Santa is in the heart of everyone.  To me the spirit of Santa says it doesn’t matter what religion you are, where you come from, who you are the spirit of what Santa means will be there in your home.  When you give your money or time to a charity or give a gift expecting nothing in return the is the spirit of Santa and Christmas.

 

Kids For Kids

“KIDS FOR KIDS helps children living in remote villages in Darfur, Sudan, who live lives of inexcusable hardship.”   Kids For Kids helps by listening to the needs of those living in Darfur.  It shows how, by strengthening these communities, we are enabling people to stay at home and to support their own families.

 

Khaltoum said “Thank you for giving me my husband back.  The loan of 6 goats has enabled him to be with us permanently and not to leave in the hungry summer months as he has always had to do.  My goats are providing a living for us, not just milk for my children, and now my children no longer have an absentee father”.

Kids For Kids has done so much more.  They have We have trained 22 farmers in terrace building to extend the planting time and provided donkey drawn ambulances, donkey ploughs, ropes, spades, and  blackboards.

 

Youth Making a Difference

 

“This past fall twenty students from all over the Salt Lake Valley (East, Highland, Olympus, and West Jordan High school’s) returned from India. They created a project called Operation Giyo that impacted the lives of over 200 orphans in the northern mountains of India. Badly needed repairs were given to four orphanages, children were given medical exams and the teens who went said they would never be the same.”

 

Youth Making a Difference inspires young people to be leaders and to make a difference in the world.  The youth create projects some of them help provide supplies for schools in India and funds for teachers so the students can achieve.

Proof Positivity: World AIDS Day

 

Today is World AIDS Day.  People all over the world will be bringing awarness of this very serious disease.  Years ago I had an opportunity to meet a woman who had AIDS.  She was not gay. I think some people still think it’s a disease that hits one segment of the population.   This woman was just like you.  She was on several medications that she had to be on.  I shook her hand.  I admit ten years ago I was scared to shake her hand.  I imagine she had more to fear from me than I had of her.  I could get her sick.  My common cold to her could have put her in the hospital but there she was talking to me knowing the risk she takes without wearing a face mask.  She was there to let us know AIDS doesn’t have a race, sex, or sexual orientation.  AIDS could happen to you or someone you love.  

 

“  HIV is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system – the body’s defence against diseases. The latest research suggests that between 70 and 90 per cent of people may experience symptoms of infection a few days after having been infected. Three symptoms occurring together: fever, rash and a severe sore throat should always be considered a potential indicator of HIV infection. These symptoms usually disappear within two or three weeks. Other people may not have symptoms to start with. In all cases, without effective treatment the immune system will eventually become very weak and no longer be able to fight off illnesses.” 

AIDS is what happens when your body is too weak to control HIV.  This is why early detection is important.  There is no cure but there is treatment. 

Someone with HIV can lead a happy healthy life.  Magic Johnson was diagnosed with HIV in the 1990’s.  He has been living with HIV since.  With Magic Johnson it has not progressed to AIDS.  Magic Johnson has become committed to educating others about HIV/ AIDS.

Sites to view with more information on HIV/AIDS:

AVERT

Aids.gov

CDC

UNAIDS

 

South Africa requesting 15 minutes of work halted.