A few days ago, my grandfather passed away. It's never easy to have a family member die, but this particular time really made me start to think. I've been thinking about life, how you never know when your time with someone might be up soon, and how we should live for today. My granddaddy was always so caring and full of love. He was always helping people by fixing their cars, surprising them with small gifts he just "happened to see" and so on. He was the first person to loan money and then never allow you to repay him. He was a caretaker and he took his responsibilities to his family and friends seriously--and extended that kindness many times to strangers. I decided to take this opportunity to make a promise to myself to try to give what I can to others that need it, just like he did. And I want to encourage you to join me. I don't necessarily mean money-- but time, energy, and the talents we've been given and can share with others can mean just as much or MORE to people. It's interesting that this happened right as this new year was kicking off... it makes me want to make a cheesy New Year's resolution...so here goes!

After visiting the Ronald Mc Donald House, I think I should make time to do things like this more frequently, on a regular basis. And I think this is a New Year's Resolution I can actually keep. But I need your help... we need to do this together! Who else is in? You can make it as specific and as often as you want. I think I will start by saying I will visit a children's charity, animal hospital, retirement home, or anything AT LEAST once a month. It can be anything... even walking in a race for a charity, or reading books to kids in the hospital, taking blankets to animal shelters, or visiting with elders at a retirement home... anything! Maybe you want to help organize a concert to raise money for your favorite charity. Use your talents you've been given, like painting, performing, organizing events, etc to help however you can! Maybe we can do a charity walk together or I can help out at your benefit...I'm open!

X's and O's,Zoe