Random Act of Kindness #67

Go ahead, convict me...guilty of slacking like no other. When's the last time I did a RAK post? Ummm, you can't remember? Yeah, me neither. It's been that long.

Fortunately, I was super inspired by a post my friend, Lisa, shared this week. You have to see this video. It's great! Click here to watch it.

After you watch it, you'll be ready for your next RAK challenge, so here ya go...

Did you know you could swing by Little Ceasars and pick up a large pizza for just $5? They're pre-made and ready to go. No ordering required! If there's not a Little Ceasars near you, I bet there's another place with a similar deal, you may need to do a little digging, but someone will love you for it, I promise.

Okay, friends, you know what time it is... go out and be kind! 

Random Act of Kindness #66

We had such a fun time Friday evening! These cutie patooties came over to play with us thanks to a RAK Bryn and her sweet friend offered their teacher...a free night of babysitting.

Bryn made a precious card informing their teacher that she'd be RAK'd and told her to make plans for Friday night because childcare was covered. Her teacher called me to arrange the details and was so excited! We also snuck in another little surprise Friday morning when Bryn gave her teacher a gift card to her favorite restaurant. Nothing better than showing a little appreciation to those who spend so much time with our kids every day!

I'm not sure who had more fun, Bryn and her friend or their teachers' girls. It was a win/win RAK.

Okay, friends, you know what to do...go out and be kind!

Random Act of Kindness #65

Yikes! I just looked through archives and realized I missed an entire month of RAK's. February didn't have a single RAK post. Oops! You guys didn't take the month off too, did you? Hope not.

Today's RAK challenge is something so simple that it's almost hard. I think it's a lost art. We've let ourselves become so busy that somehow we've managed to edge out a few simplicities that are very important.

I'm about to share what spurred this RAK idea and I hope you'll see it for what it is and not a "my child's perfect" story, because if there's anything my child is NOT, it's perfect.

Several weeks ago Reed was called to the Principal's office. As he's telling me this story after school that day, he shared he was feeling really nervous and wondering what he did wrong. Funny enough, the Principal messed with him a bit and began their talk by asking if he had done anything wrong recently. Reed recalls, "Mom! My stomach dropped to my feet and I was about to cry." She must have sensed she was about to get a confession so she quickly brought the conversation back to the reason for his visit. He was being honored for being a good friend.

Apparently, there's a boy in his class with special needs. I don't know his situation but if I were to guess I'd say he's on the autism spectrum. This boy (or his mom, not sure which one) shared that in the last 4 years, Reed is the only person who has called him a friend. The Principal asked Reed why he's friends with this boy and Reed's response brought her to tears. He said, "I don't judge people from the outside. It's what's inside that matters." Proud momma moment right there, friends. God's working in great ways through that boy.

Reed later told me, "Mom, ya wanna know something funny?...I don't think he even likes me." Man! If there's not a lesson in that for us adults then I don't know what is. It doesn't matter if the friendship is reciprocated, YOU are still called to BE a friend and treat people with kindness.

So, friends, as you go through your day today I challenge you to think about your friendships and those around you. Figure out a way to 'make someone important today!'

Random Acts of Kindness...Valentine's Edition

Happy Valentine's day, friends! I love this cheesy holiday. I know many dismiss this 'so-called holiday' and say it's a holiday created by Hallmark, but you know what?...I disagree! It's the perfect day to evaluate your relationships and express a little love.

I say, spread the love! The more the better in my opinion. It doesn't have to be mushy gushy, simply be kind today. Kindness = Love.

{via}

This picture has absolutely nothing to do with being kind, but I think it's beautiful and too good not to share on Valentine's day!

Back on topic...

{you are my fave}

Be kind by leaving a little note for someone special or a even a complete stranger. Get your origami on and impress others with your skillz. (John, that statement was just for you.)

{martha stewart via pinterest}

Show your kindness by inviting someone to share a cup of coffee with you. Face to face time is so valuable. Nothing says I love you more than slowing down to listen to a friend.

{flickr}

Put a little sparkle into someone's day today. Your smile is enough to do the trick. Try smiling at everyone you see today. They'll think you're crazy but that's okay, I bet there's someone who needs that smile.

{parents.com}

And, lastly friends, this Valentine is for you! It's mice to know you and I cherish the time you spend 'hanging out with me' here in blogland.

Random Act of Kindness #64

Oh my word! Oh my word! Oh my word!...Are these not the most adorable things ever?! Guess what their mission in life is? To be a service dog. Isn't that the best? They're not only adorable but one day, when they grow up they're going to work hard and help children with disabilities.

 

4 Paws for Ability

Service dogs are trained to help numerous different disabilities. Did you know they can even aid people with autism, seizures and diabetes?

Patriot Paws Service Dogs

Dogs trained with Patriot Paws are partnered with disabled veterans. They help do more than you realize. Just look at what they're capable of:

• Get help in emergencies
• Recognize and avert PTSD episodes
• Pick up and retrieve items
• Open and close doors
• Pull wheelchairs
• Provide bracing to stand, walk, and sit down
• Help with chores, such as laundry
• Take off shoes and socks

These incredible facts lead me to today's RAK challenge...

 

I hope you'll take the time to click on the links and read about these amazing programs. Both 4 Paws for Ability and Patriot Paws could use your help. 

I have a friend whose nephew is autistic and will be getting his service dog soon. I was astounded when I learned of the cost involved in training these heros. Do you know how much it costs to train a dog and its owner? Anywhere from $10,000 to $17,000. Holy smokes!

Monetary donations are not the only way you can help! Puppies can be donated to the programs. You can foster a dog in training. You can donate supplies. You can become a sponsor. You can encourage your company to become a corporate sponsor. So many ways, friends!

You know the drill...go out and be kind!

Random Act of Kindness #63

Warning, Warning...they're out in full force. I know because I have one! A Girl Scout, that is. It's that time of year, friends. You know, when you suddenly dread going to Walmart, the grocery store, your front door. Pretty much anywhere because you know you're going to get hit up to buy cookies!

Well, let's turn this potentially annoying (and calorie ladened) experience into a RAK! This way it all suddenly becomes more bearable.

Just to get your mouth watering...

The RAK?...

It's a win/win situation. You make a little girl happy, you save yourself the calories and you surprise someone with a box of cookies. 

Both my kids walked out the door for school this morning with a box of cookies and a RAK card. They were planning on having someone sneak the cookies into their teachers' boxes in the conference room so they wouldn't know who they came from. Not sure if they're stealth enough to pull this off but we'll see!

Need a RAK card? Click here to download and print your own. They're always great to have on hand.

Ok, friends...go out and be kind!

Random Act of Kindness #62

It's that time of year when everyone goes into crazy organizing/clean-out mode. This year be extra mindful as you rummage through your belongings and keep an eye out for hats and gloves. Then, next time you pass a homeless person, who looks a bit chilly, pass off your extras to someone in need.

It's nice to know your excess could be used to bless the life of another!

Okay, friends, you know the drill...go out and be kind.

Random Act of Kindness # 61

Have you heard it? The kindness this week has been so apparent that it's almost audible! Several of you forwarded me Ann Curry's #26Acts of kindness and can I just tell you that I love what I'm seeing?!

I'm going to credit my friend, Lisa, from Shine Your Light, with the original movement, but we'll share the love with Ann, too. Lisa and her kiddos came up with a great list of RAKs and she even offers printable RAK tags.

Here's my challenge for you today, friends...

Yes, tragedy is often our wake-up call, but it's up to you to keep the movement going. Don't get relaxed. Go through every day with your RAK eyes on. You'll be amazed at how many opportunities are right under your nose. Simply put, think of others first and yourself second!

If you need some crazy good RAK ideas, click on either link above. You won't be disappointed.

Now...go out and be kind, friends!

Random Act of Kindness #60

Anyone have their Christmas presents wrapped yet? I certainly don't! I don't even have them all purchased. I have a sneaky feeling my shopping may come down to the wire this year. Then, you know what that means...last minute wrapping!

You may not have yours done, but that doesn't mean you can't help out a friend. And, that leads me to this week's Random Act of Kindness Challenge...

{The Penny Paper Co.}

Wrapping presents goes so much faster when you're not doing it alone. So, call up a friend and offer to lend a hand. You'll be gifting them the precious gift of time while sprinkling a little kindness into their heart at the same time.

Now, Go!...Go out and be kind!

Random Act of Kindness #59

Happy Thursday, friends! I hope you're feeling extra kind today because I'm positive there's someone out there who needs an extra dose of love today and you're just the person to spread it.

Speaking of spreading, there are lots of yucky germs spreading during this time of year. The flu seems to be running rampant around here. Luckily, we've been spared thus far, but many of our friends haven't been so fortunate.

This leads to today's RAK challenge...whip up a batch of Chicken Noodle Soup and give it to someone who's feeling a little under the weather.

Here's my favorite recipe that a neighbor once shared with me:

Okay, friends, you know the drill...go out and be kind!

Random Act of Kindness #58

My RAK helper and I were busy little bees yesterday. Want to see what we were working on?

Some handmade tags, a few little hugs and voila...

Our plan? Just like the picture says...visit an Oncology office and leave this bowl full of hugs at the reception desk. An oncology office is definitely a place where people need hugs. If we can't be there to physically share a few squeezes then we'll leave a sweet little treat instead.

Want to do it too? Here's what you'll need: 

Cardstock

Hershey's Hugs

Double sided tape

Bowl (buy one from the dollar store that you won't mind leaving behind)

Directions: 

Create a tag that reads, "Enjoy...Because sometimes you need a little hug!"

Print and cut out tags

Place a Hershey's Hug on the tag using the double sided tape

Fill the bowl then go deliver your RAK!

Okay, friends, it's your turn...go out and be kind.

Random Act of Kindness # 57

Every year I look forward to fall for one reason...soups and chili. Technically that's two reasons, but you catch my drift.

In today's Random Act of Kindness Challenge you get to whip of a batch of this yumminess and call up a neighbor.

{via}

We were fortunate enough to be on the receiving end of this RAK earlier this week. My neighbor and amazingly awesome friend, Katie, invited us over for soup and salad. Preparing dinner is somewhat of a chore for me, definitely something I do out of necessity and not pleasure. So, when Katie asked if we'd come over, it took all of 2 seconds for me to say "YES!"

Each time my mind wandered to, "Hummm, what am I going to make for dinner?", it was like a little treat when I remembered we were headed to Katie's and this chore had been removed from my plate!

Look, I'm even going to make this easy for ya...here's a recipe for your RAK meal:

Crock Pot Chicken Taco Chili
Servings: 10

1 onion, chopped 
1 16-oz can black beans 
1 16-oz can kidney beans 
1 8-oz can tomato sauce 
10 oz package frozen corn kernels 
2 14.5-oz cans diced tomatoes w/chilies 
1 packet taco seasoning 
1 tbsp cumin 
1 tbsp chili powder 
24 0z. (3) boneless skinless chicken breasts 
chili peppers, chopped (optional)
chopped fresh cilantro 
  
Combine beans, onion, chili peppers, corn, tomato sauce, cumin, chili powder and taco seasoning in a slow cooker. Place chicken on top and cover. Cook on low for 10 hours or on high for 6 hours. Half hour before serving, remove chicken and shred. Return chicken to slow cooker and stir in. Top with fresh cilantro. Serve with cheese and sour cream.

Recipe courtesy of Skinnytaste.com.

Okay, friends, it's that time...go out and be kind!

Random Act of Kindness #56

This week's RAK challenge is a no-brainer. Crazy things have been happening to our friends on the east coast and it's high time we do what we can to help. I was sad to hear winter storms are plaguing them today. Nothing like making a difficult job even more difficult.

Don't let yourself feel helpless...donate to the Red Cross today. Every little bit helps.

Click Here to Donate

or

Text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation

I've experienced the aid of Red Cross first hand. When I was in high school, our town was hit by a tornado. Our house only had a couple thousand dollars worth of damage but our neighbors weren't so fortunate. Their house was demolished! I'm talking nothing left but the foundation. It was crazy!

The morning after, Red Cross volunteers set up their truck in our neighborhood and handed out breakfast. Such a simple act but much needed and much appreciated. They offered hope and a sense of comfort. 

Praying for those affected. May you be blessed by those around you and get back on your feet as soon as possible.

Random Act of Kindness #55

Did you survive? We did! I had one kid give away every single piece of candy before making it home and the other hoarded  collected as much as possible. Isn't it funny the different personalities of each kid?

If you're like most families and have an excess of the sugary stuff laying around then put it to good use. Today's RAK challenge encourages you to eat 'til your little heart's content then send the extra to the troops. Did you know you can do that?!

On Tuesday, November 1st, many local dentists and orthodontists are offering buy-back programs for Halloween candy. Some are giving out cash, coupons and prizes to kids in exchange for their candy.

Then the dentists and orthodontists donate the candy to Operation Gratitude. Operation Gratitude sends care packages to US military serving overseas. How cool is that? It's a win/win situation. You get to share the calories candy!

Curious if a dentist or orthodontist near you is participating? Go to the website HERE and type in your zip code in the upper right corner.

This is such a great cause and so much better than the waste that tends to happen to the candy after the initial excitement wears off around here.

Okay friends, it's that time...Go Out and Be Kind!

Random Act of Kindness #54

Hello, friends! I know you guys are super kind already so this week's challenge may be something you do already.

If your like me, you visit the grocery store way too many times in one week. Well, ya'll are probably much more organized and knock it all out in one big swoop. I hardly ever go to the store with a list, hence my numerous trips. When am I going to get a clue?!

Anyway, I digress. Next time you're at the store (any store really) strike up a genuine conversation with the cashier. Then, if you can slip in a sweet little compliment...even better! Don't you think their jobs can get a bit mundane by asking the same questions over and over and getting the same trite replies a majority of the time?

Let's add a little spice to their lives today and recognize them for the job their doing instead of letting our brains get 10 steps ahead of us and begin cooking dinner already.

{image credit}

Okay, friends...go out and be kind!

Random Act of Kindness #54

Hi everyone! Bryn here. Last Sunday I wanted to do something great for my parents. Then it hit me! I could do a R.A.K.! For my R.A.K. I decided to make a breakfast in bed. So, I got right to work. I got the paper for the cards, made the cards, decorated them, and gave them to my parents. In the morning my parents and I woke up, and I got down to work. Once they ordered from the menu I made , I made their food and drinks and served it to them. They said they loved it and I felt great! So, many of you might ask yourselves, why did she do it? Well, I did it for the fun of it, and to see the smiles on my parents' faces. One of the many reasons to do a R.A.K. ! Well, I hope you loved the idea! See you later!

                                                                                        - Bryn 

John and I went on a date Saturday night and when we returned we found these laying on our pillows!

Delicious menu options. 

The invitation. :)

It feels good to be RAK'd. Feel free to pass this post on to your kiddos. Maybe it'll plant a little seed!

Okay, friends...go out and be kind!

Random Act of Kindness #53

Ahhh, beautiful trees. Don't you just love 'em? I do. And, today they play a key role in helping us spread a little kindness. When they're tired of wearing their colorful clothes and begin to drop nature's gift, that's your signal to kick your rear into gear and seize the opportunity to help out a friend.

My Texas friends are probably thinking you get a free pass this week since it still feels like summer around here and the trees haven't realized it's fall just yet. But, not so! Think outside the box a little, friends, and feel free to push that lawn mower right on over into your neighbor's yard.

You know the drill, go out and be kind!

Random Act of Kindness #52

Have you ever been the "new girl?" Isn't it an awkward feeling walking into a room full of people who know each other and you don't know a sole? Well, your challenge today is to find a "new girl" and make her feel comfortable.

{via}

It doesn't take much. A kind word is very simple. Tell her you haven't seen her around then tell her your name. It's a basic skill we all learned in kindergarten, but sometimes we get so wrapped up in ourselves that we forget to look around.

I remember Reed asking me once when he was younger, "Mom, why do you talk to everyone?" I'd never really thought about it until he asked, but I guess the answer is that I like to make people feel comfortable.

A smile and a kind word can change the entire course of someone's day. You know what to do friends, go out and be kind!

Random Act of Kindness #51

Make sure you pack a few extra quarters before you walk out the door today because you're gonna need 'em! 

Ready for your RAK challenge? Here ya go...next time you pass a coin operated ride, slip a few quarters in the slot and casually walk away.

Now, find yourself a nice little hiding spot and relish in your kindness as you watch the expression on the child's face who realizes the ride is rarin' to go!

If you're lucky, you'll catch a glimpse a little something like this...

{barsandbooths.com}

Isn't that the cutest?!

It's that easy. For less than $1,  you'll put a smile on someone's face today. 

So, friends, you know what to do...go out and be kind!

Random Act of Kindness #50

 

This was the scene at our dinner table last night. Are we abnormal because we like to sit around with paper taped to our foreheads and make funny faces? Don't answer that!

No, seriously. I decided it was high time to sprinkle a little kindness into their lives last night by making them play a game. The kids were super excited and little did they know, this game was designed to speak to their hearts and boost their self-esteem at the same time.

Want to know how to play? Okay! Read on...

1) Write the name of each player onto separate pieces of paper. Place them in a bowl. Now, everyone draws a name. Make sure you don't get your own name!
2) Pass out 5 small pieces of paper to each player.
3) For the name you drew, think of 5 positive character traits.
4) Write one character trait on each of the 5 pieces of paper.
5) Pick someone to be "it" and tape the first piece of paper to their forehead without them seeing what is written.
6) The remaining players silently read what is written and begin telling stories that provide examples of how this person is ...(whatever trait you're describing). Be careful not to say the actual word!
7) The person who is "it" listens to the clues then guesses what trait is on their paper by saying, "I am (insert guess)."
8) Let the person guess until they get it right!
9) Now it's someone else's turn. Go around the table until all 5 traits are guessed by each player.

I made this game up on the fly. There are actually no "real" rules. I encourage you to adapt this game and make it work for your family or friends. We had fun telling stories and bragging on the nice things we like about each other. Sadly, we don't share these kind words as much as we should!

Okay, you're it...go out and be kind, friends!