I have been in fundraising for almost twenty years. During this time, I have witnessed incredible generosity. The ones that have impressed me the most have not been the large gifts, but the sacrificial gifts. Now fundraising success depends on large, transformative gifts. But the individuals that make those gifts often have the financial backing […]
I realize this will not come as a shocking revelation to those that know me, but I’m weird. Today’s example is related to my patience level. I am incredibly patient with many things. For one, my grandkids. I have almost unlimited patience with them. With friends, I have nothing but time. When we travel to […]
I currently work for Girl Scouts. You are probably aware that Girl Scouts sell cookies. A LOT of cookies. You may not be aware that only girls can sell these cookies and that there is a cookie “season” and the cookies are only sold during that time period. It’s a huge program and I do […]
My first teaching job was in a small, rural school district. In addition to my elementary teaching assignment, they wanted to know if I’d be the varsity wrestling coach. Umm, sure, I wrestled in 6th grade. Actually took fourth at regions. Never mind that there were four in my weight class and I got pinned […]
In my previous job, I traveled extensively across the U.S. Lately, I’ve been having flashbacks on places that I’ve visited. Parks and buildings and sites that I have seen. Many that I can’t place. I have vivid images, but not sure of the locations of many of these images. Probably could go back to my […]
When I was a kid, my dad was connected to a church camp near a local lake. It was a rustic camp experience. Originally, there was a Quonset that housed the kitchen and supplies. Campers slept on cots in teepees, mostly cooked outdoors, and experienced nature up close and personal. Like the time a skunk […]
I had someone close to me say that they didn’t believe in God. My reaction was not surprise or disappointment or sadness. It was understanding. I understand why people don’t believe. Faith doesn’t make much sense. In addition, God has granted me the spiritual gift of doubt. I was a science teacher and have always […]
Again this year, I posted this on Facebook – If you could describe your 2018 in one word, what would that word be? I realize it is difficult to capture 365 days and a multitude of experiences in one word, but I find it interesting. I am making a lot of judgments on making categories […]
Soon it will be Christmas. Time for lots of things, including memories and traditions. Most families have recollections of their holidays – some great, some not so great. Remember the Reader’s Digest Christmas trees? You would meticulously fold all the pages, spray paint it gold, and afterwards — it looked like a really horrible gold […]
My granddaughter and I are pretty good buddies. In church on Sunday, she wanted me to hold her while we were standing and singing songs. It made me realize that this was coming to an end. Not next Sunday, but it’s coming to an end. She is going to reach the height and weight where […]