Day 281: Bottle Redemption for the Lion's Club

Well it's New Years Eve day, and it's been a full week of entertaining and social festivities that have left a  lot of empty beer bottles in the Cutler household!  We know that our friends at the Sherborn Transfer Station, who support eye disease research through The Lion's Club, are eager to receive these redeemable bottles. So today we donated the motherload of bottle returns to support a most deserving cause.  Happy New Year to all and may the gift of sight be within reach to all in 2012.

Day 280: Glow Golf Gift

For Christmas, Mom and Dad gave us 3 girls tickets to a free round of Glow Golf at the Natick Mall, a recently built indoor mini-golf course (that is indeed, all glow-in-the-dark). They generously gave us 4 tickets, with the intention that Sophia could bring a friend as the 4th person, but as it turned out only us three were able to go. So, we decided to give the 4th ticket to the person at the front desk, and told him that he could give it to the next family as a surprise gift...just playing it forward to whoever happened to come in behind us! The cashier tried to give us a free admission ticket in return, but we insisted that he keep it. Soon into the golfing however we realized that it was not all it was cracked up to be- all 18 holes were crowded into one room and Sophia was the oldest child in the room by a good 7 years at least. As it was, decided to leave Glow Golf after about five holes. On the way out we decided to all give a go on the last hole, and Sophia got a hole in one, meaning she got a prize! How ironic that the prize was one free admission ticket! Knowing that we wouldn't be coming back anytime soon, we ran into the Build-A-Bear store across the street and gave our free ticket to a little boy and his mom. So technically we gave away 2 free admissions! Hopefully we made a couple families happy in the "random act of kindness."

Day 279: Helping Katrina Victims

Heard from a little bird a few days ago, that Olivia was going to Louisiana on Spring Break with a group from her college (Loyola) to help the unfortunate there still suffering from the effects of Katrina. The group will be doing some fund raising as a whole, but each participant was responsible for raising $50.00 on their own. We were happy to write a small check to Olivia to help her out in this worthy cause.

Day 278: Recycling Clothing

With the holidays past and all the gifts opened, this family of five is delighting in the many new additions to our wardrobes. The new items have inspired us to once again go through our closets and drawers to see what  no longer fits or, honestly, is no longer flattering......and of course, there is plenty!  All "chosen' items are in terrific shape and went right to the local clothing collection bin to be distributed to those less fortunate than the incredibly fortunate Cutlers!

Day 277: In2Books Epal Message

Today I wrote a letter back to my epal, who was assigned to me through the online In2Books mentoring program. His class is on the social studies unit so I went to the library to get a copy of the King Tut book that my epal requested. After reading it, I wrote a response that I planned to send to his teacher. Unfortunately after 45 minutes of composing his letter, the computer lost all of my work so now I need to re-think and re-write everything that was in my original letter (and before midnight!) Although I never got a response from him after my letter for the fiction unit, I hope he still reads my comments and questions about the book as he forms his own opinions and becomes a more engaged reader. Even though this re-work isn't going to be fun, I am sure that he will be grateful for my response since he may not have the opportunity to talk about his book with a teacher or another classmate.

Day 276: Visiting a homebound Friend

Today, I was thinking of one of my Communion calls (Al)that had been in the hospital and then rehab a few days ago when I took Communion to the other 3 that I visit each month. Al is a very quiet soft spoken man and I was feeling badly that I had not made it to him for a Christmas visit. So, I called there around noon and got his son Tom (our paper boy of quite a few years back) and was pleasantly surprised that Al was back home and would love to receive Communion, so Dad came along with me as he and Al were active in Boy Scout leadership together in the 70's. Al and his wife Mary were very happy to see us and we all reminisced about Boy Scout days and grown up children. Dad saw their bird feeder that I had been telling him about for a few weeks now and we told them we received a bird house from the Pratson's and it is attached to the fence and now we can look out the kitchen window and see the birds----- when and if a family makes their home there. Yes a very enjoyable visit with Al and Mary it was and it was easy to observe that Al really appreciates Nana's visits with Communion and he and I have a lot in common -- just think, his Mother use to prepare a meal out of squirrel as mine did!!!! To ALL a pleasant and blessed New Year 2012.

Day 275: Blankets for Christmas Day, 2011

We all woke up to a beautiful but chilly morning to start our Christmas Day.  We are so grateful to be able to stay warm by lighting a fire in the wood stove, or even, God forbid, raise the thermostat if we dare!  As we were gathered to give thanks, open gifts and share memories, we remained painfully aware of how many cannot enjoy this most special of annual traditions. 
So, in keeping with the holiday spirit of trying to make today's blog entry one of Christmas cheer, we decided to use some of my MemoryWrap fleece to make blankets that we could donate to the local Salvation Army Drop in Center.  Sophia and Bianca cut the yards of fleece into appropriate blanket size, which came out to eight blankets.  Then we packed them into the van and all (without Olivia as unfortunately, she was working at CVS today; but fortuntely she was earning double time and a half!)  headed over to Framingham to make the delivery.  Daddy "made the drop" and we left them at the entrance of the building.  Merry Christmas to all, and to all, a warm night.

Day 274: Christmas Eve, 2011

December 24th is traditionally filled with giving hame baked goodies from the Rinck's and Cutler's.
At some point today, all 7 parties involved with this blog have baked and/or delivered holiday treats in an expression of thanks to dear friends in the community.  From Nana's hot fudge sauce for the convent, to Olivia's Hannukah cookies for her Jewish friends, to Bianca's coffee cake for her good friend's family, to Sophia's Christmas cookies for multiple neighborhood friends, to my coffee cake for the Mail Carrier......and so on.  And best of all.....we are so fortunate to have our Happy Kitchen Elfs, Daddy and Buppa,  to help set up and clean up during all the baking activity!
We also make it a tradition to attend a Christmas Eve Mass, and we were very happy to contribute to the special collection designated to support the retired priests in the archdiocese. We always think of our favorite priest, Fr. Henry Doherty, when this specific collection comes around.   It was a full church tonight; really a beautiful celebration of faith, family and friendship....... hopefully the collectve contribution will prove a generous contribution from St. Theresa's.

Day 273: Fundraising for Olivia's Trip!

This Spring Break, Olivia is planning on going to New Orleans with a group of Loyola students to help repair the damages of Hurricane Katrina. Sadly even almost seven years later, the devastation of the hurricane is still so widespread and there are many families still suffering. It is nice of the Loyola students to offer their week of spring break to community service. As the trip is expensive, each student going on the trip is required to do a little fundraising for themselves. I decided that I would pitch in to Olivia's fundraising goal today for the blog... every little bit counts! And I am more than happy to help support her philanthropic endeavor.

Day 272 -- Saint Jude's Bristol Lodge day

Today was the last Thursday of the month and (also the year) and it was St. Jude's turn to provide the meal. As luck would have it, my group had to cook meat loaf. We have to cook enough for 15 or so people, so that takes about 5 pounds of hamburg. Started around 11:00 and was all through mixing, etc by noon. It was a bit nostalgic for me as it was my last day to be "in charge." The new leader came here and went on the pickup route and then to the convent for the last stop where we suggested to some of the ladies to drop their cooking instead of as previously at Ruth's house. It all worked out well and Sandra will be great. Explained to the 2 men in charge there that we had a new leader as Ruth had passed away. They were both so sorry to hear this and welcomed Sandra aboard. We hung around a bit to show her the ropes and how some of our people stay and serve. She was happy to see how it all worked as she had always been on the pickup list, so it was all new to her. Ruth and I have been doing this together for 30 years, so it is a bit sad to close that chapter of my life. I will continue to cook each month, but not have to worry whether the other 25 remember to cook.

Day 271: Wrapping Presents

Hi all,

As I was in the mall today shopping for Christmas presents, I noticed a kiosk booth that wrapped presents for charity, with a suggested donation. The group benefitted cancer research and children in foster homes. After I bought my present, I decided to donate some money and get my gift all wrapped. They did a wonderful job, and I got to pick put my wrapping paper, bow color, and ribbons. There was actually a line at the booth, which was great and meant a lot of people were donating money! The wrappers were so friendly, and wished everyone a happy holiday. I would say it was a successful shopping trip overall!

Olivia

Day 270: Donating Old VHS Movies

Hello it is Sophia!

The Veterans Communty Service group at my school is collecting used movies (DVD or VHS) or any video gaming games or components (Playstation, Nintendo, Wii, X-box etc.). Today I brought in some of our old VHS movies which will be sent overseas to service members we have contact with.  The veterans don't have access to stuff we take for granted like movies, so I bet it is really nice to have new options for entertainment. The videos will be used in break rooms for soldiers to view on downtime. I hope our veteran friends take joy in seeing these movies!

Day 269: Christian Foundation

Paul here.
Time for our monthly donation to our sponsored child: Claudia Margarita Moreno Ibarra.  I love that name!  She is now 12 years old and recently sent us a letter wishing us a Merry Christmas.  It's hard to imagine how valuable our $20.00 per month could be, but since we have been sponsoring a child for 10-12 years (or more?) I guess it adds up.

http://www.hopeforafamily.org/

Day 268: Christmas Donations at Loyola

Hi everyone,

The semester is winding down, and the majority of the students have left to go home for break. Although I am leaving tomorrow, I needed hand soap so I walked over to the nearby campus marketplace. As I was checking out, I saw a basket to donate money to neighborhood Baltimore families who are less fortunate. I was happy to contribute, also since I knew this basket wasn't up long, and there weren't many students on campus anymore!

Happy holidays!

Day 267: An Easy Day to Give....

With Christmas just eight days away, you can see and hear the Salvation Army Bells ringing wherever you go.  It's wonderful to see how many volunteers will stand by the signature red kettles and jingle the bells to help raise money for the needy.  Really, if someone can stand out in the cold for hours and ring a bell, well it would seem that the least I can do is drop a little something in the kettle!!  Happy to oblige during my holiday errand runs today.     http://www.salvationarmy.org/

Day 266: Food Pantry at Gymanstics Express

Seems like the collection for food items is omni-present this season....

and  that's a really good thing as good food is essential to good health in

celebrating this season and every season.

Tonight, Sophia was able to bring can goods to her gym, where a Senior

Gymnast service project, a Food Drive for the local food pantry, was in

motion with the gymnasts.  Gymnastics Express is a terrific gymnastics
academy that truly recognizes the joy in giving back to the commmunity.

http://www.gymansticsexpress.com/

Day 265: Giving to the Food Pantry

For the season of Advent, we have been trying to give a food donation to the Food Pantry once a week, so today was our day to drop off 2 bags of various food items. The basket was empty so I was glad to be able to put somethings in it. Heard on the television that there are so many homeless and hungry out on the streets, in fact, they showed a man all wrapped up in a blanket, not wanting to get up and go into a place to eat--scary! I think that our Food Pantry takes care of families where the breadwinner is out of work--hopefully, temporarily. No matter what the reason, it gives one a wonderful feeling to know they are "feeding the hungry."

.

Day 264: Hotel Tour and Hotel Toiletry Donation!

Guess what? Today was my birthday! I took a bunch of my friends to the Intercontinental Hotel in Boston and we got a tour of the kitchens and Presidential Suite.  A fun coincidence is that today at school this morning, before my brithday party, I donated hotel sized toiletry items which were going to a homeless shelter in the area through a school group called  HELP Club. At the Intercontinental, we learned that the hotel is big on recycling their  linens, soaps, and toiletry items to those in need. They even recylcle the oil for cooking French fries!  The nice lady that led our tour was glad to hear that we are doing a little donation box at our school. She also said that the Intercontinental Hotel was the only hotel in Boston that received the Green Award for their recyling and environmental efforts. We had such a great time celebrating my 12th birthday in such a special way.

Day 263: Working Hard For Approval To Volunteer!

Who knew that it could be so time consuming to become a volunteer?  As I continue my efforts to become a volunteer at Asera Care Hospice Center in Wellesley, I was told that I need to go through drug testing and provide a urine specimen.  Man oh man!  But no problem...except that the lab they required me to go to today was 30 minutes away in Newton Center!  Which is crazy because there are so many medical buildings and hospitals right near my house in the Natick/Framingham area.   But such was the deal and off I went to find the lab.....which took me on a stroll down Memory Lane as the lab was located in the same medical building as the pediatrician who treated Bianca and Olivia for the many years  we lived in Watertown!
(Hey B & O, those fun, bright green lights/fish tank sort of display is still there once you get off the elevators!)  Turns out that the lab was almost directly across the hall from Dr. Benjamen's office, which tempted me to stop in and say hello, but alas, a busy schedule got the better of me and I chose to instead get home and start make the brownies Sophia wants to bring to gymnastics tonight to celebrate her last workout as an 11 year old!

Day 262: Holiday Book Buddy Party

A couple weeks ago a friend reached out to me and others to see if we would sign up to be a book buddy to a local elementary school child in Philadelphia. The organization that she is involved with holds a Holiday Book Party each year, where kids from all over the Philadelphia area get to sit and read a book with a buddy (us). I was assigned to the sweetest fifth grade girl. In her letter to me a couple days before the event, she mentioned her favorite book and what she likes to read. As the volunteer, I was required to buy her a book, wrap it, and give it to her at the event. Luckily the book was at the campus bookstore! I don't think she was expecting to get that particular book, because her eyes completely lit up when she opened the package and exclaimed how it was her favorite book ever. For the next hour we took turns reading to each other, and then finished the event with a coloring activity. It was a long commitment, but there were over 100 Penn students who volunteered to help. The kids were so adorable and it made the stress and confusion of the event worth it!

Day 261: Poinsettia Cheer for House-Bound Neighbors

St. Theresa's in Sherborn, like Nana's church in Waltham, is participating in a Giving Tree program to bring holiday gifts to the needy.  Ours is called a "Bethlehem Tree", and in addition to purchasing "wish list items' for an underprivileged member of the community, parishioners could also choose to purchase a poinsettia plant for a neighbor who is housebound during the season.  Today, Sophia and I brought our pretty little plant to church when we went to Mass.  I especially missed Bianca and Olivia at church today as Sophia and I were drafted to bring up the gifts and I would have happily passed the honor on to my lovely twins!!

Day 260: Children Helping Children

Hello it is Sophia!
At my gym, we do a little gift giving game probably many of you have heard of, "Secret Snowflake, Secret Santa, Majestic Manorah" whatever you want to call it. Today I went out to get a gift for my sporty friend Kayla. She likes Under-Armor and Nike, so mom and I went to Dick's Sporting Goods and got her a Nike t-shirt that I would very much want myself that says "Girls JUST DO IT Better" (A part of Nike's JUST DO IT motto).   So when we were checking out, the actual blog opportunity was giving my own dollar to St. Jude's Children's Hospital  Cancer Research. I love supporting this cause because if I found out I had cancer, as an almost 12 year old, I would hope that people were doing their best taking care of me.

Day 259: Seeking a Volunteer Position at AseraCare Hospice Center

AseraCare Hospice  (taken from their website)

AseraCare Hospice is one of the nation’s premiere providers of hospice and palliative care services. We treat each of our patient’s end-of-life journey with respect, kindness, compassion and support.
Our family-centered approach works to ensure that the needs and wishes of both our patients and their family members are met throughout the hospice experience. We provide a wide range of hospice care services that include physician, nursing, therapy, social work, counseling, personal and spiritual care.

Patricia here.  Today, I had the opportunity to apply for a volunteer postion at the Hospice Center described above. So much paperwork to fill out that it was rather overwhelming.  But basically, I "have the job" if my criminal record comes back clean!?!   I confessed to the gal interviewing me that I often threatened to shoplift when my twins were little, desperately hoping that I might be able to spend a night in jail and finally get a good night's sleep, but alas, I never followed through with the plan!  Thankfully, she will not hold this against me.

I have a few options with this new volunteer program; I can help with the administrative office needs, or I can work with the hospice chaplain and assist families of hospice patients.  Both require training seminars, which I am happy to attend in the new year when the next training session is scheduled.  It's all so intriguing....and worthwhile...and truly a wonderful way to give support and offer friendship to those who need it most.

I'm really looking forward to this next chapter of living and giving.....the journey continues.

http://www.aseracare.com/

Day 258: Gifts for the Giving Tree

This year when I was making my list of persons that we give to, I came to a standstill when my dear friend Ruths' name came to mind. We always exchanged gifts for many years and I decided this year to continue to give, but to give something in Ruth's memory. For some reason, (maybe the economy) there are many tags left in the baskets at our church, so I took 2 tags to do in her name. I was off and looking for a ladies hat and gloves and a little boys sweater. Found the sweater in no time, but the hat and gloves was a project. Went to several stores looking for a set, but not much luck. Lots of fancy hats and separate gloves, but keep in mind, these people are poor and homeless, so I was looking for something warm. Finally found a hat and gloves to match and that felt like they would keep somebody warm. So, today we took them to church to put under the tree. They also were collecting small sizes of personal items such as the shampoo, soap and hand lotion from motels. When we were on our trip South in October, I saved all the ones we did not use and today added our bag to the box. Again, it was a great feeling to know we helped and that if Ruth were here, she would have done the giving tree gifting.

Day 257: Colleges Against Cancer Speaker Panel

Today, I spent some time after class flyering on Locust Walk for a speaker panel event that the Colleges Against Cancer Committee held tonight. In about a half hour I handed out a lot of my flyers (more students responded to "free food" rather than "Cancer Speaker Panel.") However there was a pretty good turnout tonight and there was an active discussion about various cancer statistics and research studies. The guest speakers consisted of an oncology Nurse Practitioner, also a Penn grad, and the Health Outreach coordinator of the PA American Cancer Society. It was interesting to learn a lot about the local cancer studies happening all over campus. Off to study for 2 finals tomorrow!

Day 256: A Down and Up day this day

My original intent this day was to blog about a visit with a wonderful Friend Al who I had the pleasure of working with during our boys involvement in Boy Scouts. Yes many years ago, he as committee treasurer for Scout Troop 250 during my years as camping chairman and Scoutmaster. He was home recovering from a fall. Unfortunately, he was taken to the hospital last night and as I write, no word on his condition, but his Family appears to have gather around.
So, I said to myself, what can I do this day for my commitment to the Service Challenge 365 blog today. Thought a bit and then off to find a Salvation Army bucket to give a donation which I do once a year during the Christmas celebration times. I went to the local Shaw's store and not surprised for there wasn't one there this day and the day was off kilter a bit. So on ward to Stop and Shop. Oh yes, there was the volunteer ringing his bell and spreading good will. So up I pulled and put my donation in. Things picked up right away, for as I was leaving I met a Wife of another Friend that gave assistance to Cub Pack 250 when I was Cub master. A nice conversation we had about Spouses and Grandchildren.
I have had an interest in the Salvation Army for most of my adult life while recognizing the work of charity they do. I still remember going to their place of prayer and social work to donate some things that they might be able to process through their store for resale at a unbelievable low price to assist the needy. Quite interesting!!!! I really like their ratio of funds collected to funds distributed to help -- 83% to charity, outstanding compared to many of the United Nations ratio's!!!!! Well Folks, have a good LIFE and keep you chin up and smile on for life is beautiful even though challenging at times -- Buppa

Day 255: Hope Lodge

Bianca here. Tonight, I went with a couple Relay for Life Chairs to the Philadelphia Hope Lodge, about 40 minutes outside the city. The Hope Lodge is a place where cancer patients and their caregiver can stay while they are going through treatment. Like a hotel, each patient has their own furnished bedroom, meals, a fitness center, cozy lounge rooms, a meditation room, etc. It is really a beautiful place meant to both inspire its inhabitants and also provide a warm, welcoming environment. There are 37 rooms in this particular lodge, though there are 31 Hope Lodges across the US.

Tonight, the UPenn Relay Committee cooked for all of the patients in the lodge. Lots of us made pasta dishes. A couple of our Chairs who had a little more time actually made lasagna, stuffed peppers, chicken, and a macaroni and cheese casserole! I ended up making a trip to the open 24/7 grocery store down the street around midnight last night and got some frozen meatballs and sauce. Not nearly as good as Dad's or Nana's, but I figured it would complement the three trays of pasta we had. Unfortunately my camera died so I only got this one photo.

We ate dinner with the patients and it was nice chatting with them. All of them are so strong and I cannot even imagine what it must be like to be going through such a scary, draining, and emotional experience. We were all glad we were able to put smiles on their faces. We wish them all the best of luck and hope to volunteer there again soon.

http://www.cancer.org/Treatment/SupportProgramsServices/HopeLodge/index

Day 254: Supporting UPenn and Penn State!!!

We are just back from a fun weekend with our granddaughter, Bianca, at her college of choice--University of Pennsylvania (U Penn, for short!)It was quite a ride down. I was the co-pilot with Map Quest directions held tightly in my hands. We knew Bianca was working til 5:30 on Friday and her games were at 8:00 and 10:00, so we decided to take a "dry run" to the building where the games were to take place. We found it easier than we thought, so called and left her a message that we were there. It was quite a challenge to find a spot to park and learn the ropes on getting a "card" from the "kiosk" to put in the car window. By Friday night, we had that procedure and finding the garage "down pat." Grabbed a burger and then Buppa stood by the car while I went down two streets to mail a box to Olivia. (Couldn't do for one twin without the other!) Small P.O. with 15 people ahead of me. Quite a process! Finally met up with Bianca and she invited us to see her dorm. She is on the 15th floor and has a great view of the city. Met her roomies ---Carolyn, Jessie and Ashley--all lovely, friendly girls. Went to the pool and only attended the first game which they lost to Penn State. Beautiful pool and quite a game to watch---feet cannot touch the bottom of the pool during game!! Next game was too late for us "seniors", so we left and found our way back to motel. Plans were made to meet at 12:45 on Saturday for lunch. We toured and saw the Liberty bell and the Betsy Ross House among other things and met on time. Lunch was fun and then off for a walking tour of campus---very interesting. Left Bianca and met her later at the pool Her wonderful roommates were there to support her. Team is having a rebuilding year--they lost both games! So we parted ways--see you at Christmas. Today, we decided to go out for breakfast at a diner across from the motel and after spending 2 days at and with U. Penn folks, there was a girl from "Penn State" canning for THON. Collector asked if we had heard about THON and proceeded to explain and the gist of it all was they were collecting for children with pediatric cancer. While I was getting out some money for her basket, Buppa explained we had spent the weekend with our granddaughter at U.Penn, but even though unknown to us that the two colleges were rivals, we were happy to contribute to such a worthy cause.

Day 253: A Memory Pillow for Kathleen

Another one of my dear friends, Kathleen, has recently lost her mother. 
Kathleen and I go way back...she was one of my college roommates at BC, and she was in my wedding.  Thankfully, we have managed to stay close over three decades! 
A few weeks ago, Kathleen ordered a MemoryWrap to be made out of her mother's favorite sweatshirts, which I was happy to design as I had the privilege and pleasure of knowing her mother, Kay.  In the true spirit of kindness and generousity that has always been Kathleen's nature, she plans to ship this quilt to her brother and sister-in-law in Hawaii as a Christmas present.  She is very excited about sending this special surprise.
What Kathleen doesn't know is that when she comes to pick up the quilt, she will be receiving her own  gift from me....a keepsake memory Pillow made from her mother's clothing.  I know how close she was with her mother, and I feel blessed that I can use my skill as a seamstress to be able to support the people I love.

Day 252: Coats for Kids

Once again, happy to redeem the UPC codes on my favorite coffee creamer to support Coats for Kids, and Toys For Tots.  Actually, it's a bit embarassing that I drink so much of the stuff!  But certainly...Bravo to White Wave Foods who make/distribute International Delight.  You're on the right track; a role model for how business can give back. 

WhiteWave Foods Gives Back

Share Your Delight is brought to you by WhiteWave Foods Company, based in Broomfield, Colorado. At WhiteWave, we’ve always believed that drawing a connection between what we value and how we do business is essential to our success. That’s why we’re proud to partner with organizations that help make the world a better place. By choosing specially marked bottles of our brands, you’ve chosen to Share Your Delight with kids this holiday season. Thank you.

Day 251: Parish Christmas Giving Tree

As in most every church at this time of year, there is a "Giving Tree." We at St. Jude's have one also. The tags were in colorful baskets at the entrances and all were asked to participate and take 1 or 2 tags, buy the specified gift or gifts, and return the wrapped gift WITH the tag on it by December 11th. We had little boy gifts to get---hat and mittens for a 2 year old and pants for another 2 year old . It was fun looking at clothes for little ones as we don't have many little ones left in our family. I was happy to place our 2 gifts in their Gingerbread wrapping paper under the tree.

Day 250: Make A Wish

Hi, Olivia here.

Once again, I volunteered for the Wishmakers Club (Benefitting Make a Wish) and sat at the Bake Sale table during lunch. This is the time of year when everyone walks through the Student Center to get to the Library, so we had many classmates come by and buy treats. They looked yummy, but definitely not as good as a Daddy's Cookie! For more information about Make a Wish, visit www.wish.org.

Day 249: Lea Community School

While furiously playing catch-up with all the school work that I neglected to do over Thanksgiving break (but worth it!), a young girl who looked about 14 years old approached me while I was reading and asked if I wanted to buy a wristband for a dollar. I quickly but politely declined, as I was on a deadline to finish my Spanish novel and I also didn't have cash. A couple minutes later, I realized that I did have a dollar in change and that the wristband profits were probably going to some cause that was blog worthy. So, I chased her down and scoured the entire building (of 3 huge floors) before I ran into another girl who was also carrying these wristbands. I asked her why she was selling the wristbands and what cause they were fundraising for. She said that she was from the Lea Community School and that these wristbands were being sold for the Music Program. Lea Community School is just down the street from campus, about a 5 minute walk into West Philadelphia. The name of this school stood out to me in particular as we are learning about the state of the Philadelphia school systems in my math class. (The "math" part is that we go into inner city schools to tutor students in math, so learning about the surrounding schools is relevant). As I learned in class, they are shutting down a couple of the elementary and high schools in Philadelphia and consolidating the students into Lea and one other school. So, I figured that with this huge influx of new students, they could use all the help that they can get! After all, they will be having a lot more students joining their music program once the students are transferred.

Day 248: St Judes Children's research Hospital

Paul here.
While checking out of CVS, I was asked if I wanted to donate to St. Judes Research Hospital.  I was not aware (probably never noticed) that CVS was raising money for such a worthy charity.  As previously expressed in this blog, while cancer is such a horrible disease, it is made that much worse when if affects children.  While doing some research, I discovered that thanks to St Jude and other cancer fighting organizations, childhood cancer survival rates (since 1965) have gone from 10%-20% to 55%-95% depending on the type of cancer. What used to be a likely death sentence is now a survivable disease.  When it began in 1962, the Research Hospital was aptly named after St Jude, commonly referred to as the patron saint of lost causes.  I'm not suggesting they change the name, but thanks to their efforts, childhood cancer is no longer a "lost cause".    According to their website, "no child is ever turned away because of the family's inability to pay".
CVS deserves a lot of credit (Thanks Tom) for raising money for such a worthy cause.

Day 247: Holiday Wishes To/From Claudia in Mexico

Once again, we are privileged to be able to maintain our commitment to send on-line monthly financial support to our sponsored child in Mexico.  How timely that just yesterday, we received this hand drawn holiday card from Claudia.  She's quite the little artist.....just one more reason why Sophia wants to meet her someday!!! http://www.hopeforafamily.org/

Day 246: Salvation Army Holiday Bells

Just back from Thanksgiving weekend in Bethesda and when stopping for groceries on the way home, we saw the familiar bell ringers of the Salvation Army at the store entrance. Although it's hard to believe it is indeed that time of year to "Hear The Bells" (can't resist a reference to that song from Hairspray since we just flew in from Baltimore!) we see the local lights and holiday cheer everywhere....... are we happy to start the season by dropping a little something into the bright red kettle.
http://www.salvationarmyusa.org/ 

Day 245: A Visit to the Smithsonian

We are still enjoying a wonderful visit with family in Bethesda, and today was filled with sightseeing, and eating, of course.

Sophia was excited to see her favorite animal, up close and impersonal, so it was an easy choice for her to head off to the Museum of Natural History. 

It was a fun morning touring an incredible museum that contains more information and fascination that can be absorbed in a week, never mind just a few hours.

Before leaving, we were happy to slip a donation into the one of the many plastic banks that encourage financial support from visitors. This is especially easy to do when the the admission to theSmithsonian is FREE!!!
http://www.si.edu/ 

Day 244: Thanksgiving Day "Race To The Rock" in Bethesda

 It's our first Thanksgiving in Bethesda and we couldn't have more to be thankful for!  Although we do miss not seeing the Rinck family on the holiday.....
this quick little blog-ditty can hardly express the joy and gratitude we are all feeling as we celebrate the holiday with Marcia,  the Cutler sibs, lots of cousins, and our newest family member, Miss Indie.
Indeed we are all blessed.
And thanks to Abigail, the day got started with a short road race that is organized each Thanksgiving Day by one of the Rosen-Cut neighbors who has a longstanding and inspiring relationship with a family still living in Nepal.  According to the race promotional literature, "Race to The Rock allows  our small community to make a big difference....every year. The race benefits the Kaski Oral Health Care Project and Gaky's Light Education.  Since 2006, EVA Nepal, with the help of residents and businesses in Bethesda, has provided dental care and college scholarships to over 6,400 people in Nepal." 
The Sherborn Cuts, all together for the first time in months, were privileged to be a part of the event. We met some wonderful people who are dedicated to a most deserving cause as oral hygiene is something we often take for granted in the states.  Daddy, Sophia and Abigail volunteered to set up for the race and Daddy even served as a route monitor so the racers didn't get lost in the hills of Greenwich Forest!  Dale, Sarah, Abigail, Jacob, Bianca, Olivia, Sophia and Mum all ran the race and enjoyed the neighborhood cheer and friendship.  Where was Michael, you might ask?  Home attending to the consummate host/hostess duties before greeting us at the official Award's Ceremony!!
At the finish, there were raffle prizes (Sophia won a gift certificate to a local bakery which she has already redeemed with her Uncle) as well as a silent auction and beautiful hand made scarves, hats and purses for purchase, all brought to town from Nepal, personally, by the race coordinators.  I plan to enjoy my gorgeous aqua/teal scarf that will always remind me of this special event.  We were thrilled to be a part of an effort that is so close to the home and hearts of the Rosen-Cut family....a very special family who are truly the type of people that give of their time, talents and treasure, everyday, in every way, to make the world a better place. 
We love them so much.

www.evanepal.org

Day 243: Childrens Books

How many of you have heard of or seen "Kohl's Cares Program?" It is a great program, in that 100% of the net profit will be donated to support kid's health and education initiatives in communities nationwide. We have contributed to this before and they have a stuffed animal to go along with the storybook. This time we chose--"Wherever You Are, my love will find you", with a stuffed gray dolphin to go with it and "It's Time to Sleep, My Love" and an adorable panda bear goes with that book. The author of the books is Nancy Tillman. Each book is easy reading for goodnight stories to little ones and the children love the animals. kohls.com/cares

Day 242: Big Brother/Big Sister Pick Up

Another donation to the Big Brother Big Sister foundation left on the front porch for a 7:00 AM pick up.  Added a little Thanksgiving surprise treat for the driver today.....Daddy's cookies, of course!!

Day 241: Counting the Money

Nothing too different while counting the money this morning. There were 2 collections (which there seems to be every week so far this month.) The second collection today was for the Retired Sisters of the Archdiocese. In past years, we used to have a nun come to the parish and speak at all the Masses in behalf of the sisters, but lately we don't have that. We didn't even have a blurb in the bulletin to remind us of the upcoming collection. Those of us who use envelopes had an envelope and were aware, but there were many one dollar bills to be counted. Most all of us who went to parochial school or Sunday School (or CCD) have a Sister they can remember who was kind to them at one time or another. Sisters were not allowed to enter the Social Security System until 1972. Consequently, the retirement benefits are significantly less than the average social security benefit for women of comparable age and years of work experience. The religious communities are responsible for health and retirement expenses for each sister. I had 2 Aunts who were Religious Sisters( my Mothers sisters) so I have heard the stories many times of their need for money. I realize the economy isn't good and it showed in the collection yesterday. Next year, I hope to remember to mention to the Pastor to mention this collection at each of the Masses early in the month and hope for a better response.

Day 240: Community Service Group Bake-Off

Earlier this week, I entered the Penn Relay for Life group into a community service bake-off competition. The event was held in Rodin (my college house), and Rodin was giving monetary awards for the groups who won the competition. First place got $150, second got $100, and 3rd place got $75. I baked the classic "daddies cookies" which we used to awe the judges. It was my first time making them at college, AND I accidentally bought peanut butter chips instead of butterscotch chips, but they still turned out delicious. We were judged on taste, presentation, and incorporation of the Rodin "crest," which is our house symbol. Since the event was so last minute for us, we weren't able to really plan an elaborate display. We were quite humbled by a lot of the displays, including giant cupcakes, a puppy cake, etc. In the end, we won 3rd place...$75 more for th American Cancer Society! Everyone said the cookies were absolutely delicious. Can't go wrong with those Daddy's cookies!

Day 239: Homelessness Awareness Week

Hi!

This week is Homelessness Awareness Week. Tonight, Loyola students as well as other Baltimore schools and their students are participating in a Sleepout with the Homeless with the idea of "A Bench is Not a Bed". Nicole and I were going to join, but I'm still not feeling well, and Nicole has a ton of homework to do. However, the leaders of the event asked everyone to bring cardboard boxes for the homeless. So, we went around the floor and others and asked for cardboard box donations. We ended up getting 27 boxes! These boxes really help insulate the homeless from the cold cement on the ground. It also gives them protection from winds or rain. We were so glad we could help the homeless even if we couldn't join the Sleepout! Here are all the boxes we collected; we are lying on them too, and they are much more comfortable than they look!
-Olivia

Day 238: (Another) Food Drive at Penn

My college house, Rodin, is constantly holding volunteer events and trips to encourage its students to become more involved in the community. Since I am usually not able to take these day-long trips (as they are a big time commitment), I was able to contribute to the Food Donation bin today. All donations are going to local homeless shelters and soup kitchens. I thought I had some canned corn from earlier in the year, but my roommates must have just recently seen it on the community shelf for the past month and decided to cook it up. So, I figured I would stop by the store on the way back from working at CHOP to buy some canned vegetables and Jell-O. The bin has been in the lobby for days, but there were only 3 or 4 cans in it when I dropped off my additions...so sad, as this residence holds over 1,000 people. Hopefully as Thanksgiving Day gets closer, more students will contribute.

Day 237: School Food Drive

For the past week, DSMS's homerooms have had collection boxes taking in non-perishable items for people in need to have a wonderful Thanksgiving. Today, I decided to cover the blog and bring in a few items to put in the box. When I put them in, my teacher was very happy I contributed...actually reacted like I went through a lot of trouble of getting the items together....but I just kindly said, "Oh no problem! I was happy to!" The school Help-Club will be bringing the items to A Place To Turn in Natick. As I was going through my day in and out of rooms, I saw that many classrooms' boxes were overflowing! I am glad I got to contribute to this cause.

Day 236: Project Mexico

Hi all,


I was going to run this morning with Back on My Feet, but since I woke up with a fever, I decided I'd try and catch up on sleep. So, instead I bought a t-shirt benefitting a Loyola Immersion Program called "Project Mexico (more affectionately known as PMEX). PMEX is an international immersion program that takes place in the Mexicali/San Diego border region for 10 days in early January. The trip to Mexico follows after a semester of student organized preparation, education, team building and fundraising. While on the trip, participants are involved in community directed projects. They also engage in cultural and social activities and education programs that address topics such as immigration, the environment, human rights and political and economic issues. The program also emphasizes personal reflection on the Mexico experience and its impact on one's personal and spiritual development. My roommate Sam was accepted into the program (as one of two sophomores), and the trip is basically all funded by donations and an auction (held tomorrow), so I knew they could use the money! The trip costs thousands and thousands of dollars, and it would be such a shame of they couldn't raise enough money! The shirts were white and long sleeved, and had the Loyola Greyhound colored in with the Mexican flag design, as well as the "Project Mexico 2012" name spread across the center. It's quite comfortable, and I'm glad I was able to support an amazing friend and a good cause. 

Day 235: Donation to the Food Pantry

This weekend, I noticed in the Walgreens ad that there were a lot of everyday food items on sale that have been on the suggested list for the Food Pantry; so, off I went to Walgreens with my coupons. All the items that I was interested in, were available. Purchased them all and came back home satisfied. Of course, Buppa had to take a photo, so now they are already to be delivered before the day is over. The St. Jude people always make a delivery to Sacred Heart on Wednesdays, so when I see them gathering the different foods tomorrow, I will be happy to know that we contributed.

Day 234: Counting the Money

Here we are in November and it is my group to count the church collection. This weekend, there were two collections, so we had lots of counting to do. Five in our group showed up ready to work and we worked pretty quickly. The total of the collections was 3513.00------good numbers for me if I were a lottery player---the year and day of my birth! As always, some people folded their bills up into different shapes and the same usual 4or 5 came with tape or stickers adding to the already sealed envelope. We got to talking about the different areas like the churches in Florida that get 15,000.00 and more in their collections and wondered how long it would take them to total their monies----much longer I'm sure. At any rate, it always a good feeling to know that we volunteered to help our church community.

Day 233: Crafts For The Church Bazaar

 Hello! It is Sophia. Well, I figured out what craft I would make to donate to our St. Theresa Bazaar! (The bazaar is a profitable event for our church where home-made, bought, or like new items are donated to be sold in a fair type event in the church.) I made votive candle holders by decorating glass goblets with glitter glue and gems. We went to Jo-Ann fabrics and we got the materials yesterday and I was so eager to make them, I got half of them done yesterday! With some trial and error, I figured out some good designs that were Christmas colors, or just pretty!! I put some Christmas trees, lines, holly, and other decorations. I hope they all sell and I might even keep one for myself! Can't wait to attend the baazarr!!

Day 232: Boy Scout Food Drive in Sherborn

Each year, a very devoted group of local Boy Scouts organize a very important service project, a November Food drive to assist local food pantries stay stocked for the holiday season.  The scouts make it quite simple to contribute.  They are driven around town by dedicated parents a week ahead of the scheduled pick up date (today) and drop of empty plastic bags, requesting that neighbors fill the bag and leave it on their doorstep for pick up this morning.  And then those terrific parents will drive all around town again with the boys to collect all the bags and bring them to the Sherborn Fire Station for sorting and delivery.  What's especially nice about this Food Drive is that almost every household in town participates!  And why not?  In our house, there's always a place for another at our table and always an extra few cans in the pantry for someone who needs it.

Day 231: Great American Smokeout

Tonight's event for the blog had an unexpected change of plans! The Relay for Life and Colleges Against Cancer Committee was to host a "Great American Smokeout," an anti-smoking campaign with a bonfire to represent the "Smokeout." Since there was such high winds, our bonfire permit was revoked at the last minute...but we still had all of the supplies to make s'mores, which was the biggest appeal of our event! I suggested that we make them in one of our ovens (which was a slow process...but at least we still had our s'mores!) We also handed out free hot chocolate and sold anti-smoking t-shirts for $5...and of course all of the money went to the American Cancer Society. The purpose of our event was not only to promote awareness about smoking related cancers, but we also made a video petition to send to Congress about increasing taxes on smokeless tobacco. Pennsylvania is currently the only state without this tax!

Since it was so cold outside, our expected 150 attendees ended up only being about 15. But it was still a fun time with the committee, and a couple of my roommates and friends stopped by for some nice hot chocolate and s'mores. I don't think we raised a lot of money, but we encourage many students who stopped/walked by to register for Relay for Life in the spring!

Day 230: Supporting St. Jude's School in honor of Ruth

Yesterday was as beautiful as a sad day can get.  Ruth's funeral at St. Jude's Church was a remarkable tribute that celebrated her commitment to faith,  family, friends and community. It was suggested that, in leui of flowers, donations to be made to St. Jude School, in Ruth's memory.  Today, we were happy to support the Rinck/Roche alma mater by contributing to the fund established in Ruth's name.

http://www.saintjudewaltham.com/

Day 229: Back on My Feet!

Hi!!


I had quite and interesting experience this morning. My friend Nicole and I went on a run this morning, but not just any ordinary run. We belong to a club on campus called "Back on My Feet" (BOMF), where we run with the homeless. Specifically, we ran with men that belong to Christopher's Place. Christopher's Place Employment Academy is an intensive residential program that provides education and training as well as emotional, spiritual, and addiction recovery support to formerly homeless men. The leaders invite the participants to engage in a process of change that moves them from homelessness to permanent stable living, trains them to obtain employment, and empowers them to live a life free of drugs and alcohol. Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, the men go on runs. Non-residential members (not living at CP) from nearby neighborhoods, colleges, and "graduates" of the program run with them as well. 
This morning, Nicole and I woke up at 4:45 to catch our ride leaving at 5:15. It was quite chilly outside!! The BOMF schedule has warmup begin at 5:30 sharp, but although we arrived around 5:35 we got there just in time to catch the large group leaving! According to a regular member, today's route was tough for a first timer; they're usually more mellow. We ran a mile warmup and started the workout at the Washington Monument, which I had never seen in Baltimore before, and now I was running around it! We could run as many half mile loops around the monument as we wanted, so Nicole and I, as well as some other members, ran two. We ran the mile cooldown in the opposite direction as the warmup. The course was hilly and somewhat difficult, but the experience was amazing! We met some great guys, and we are so excited to go back again next Wednesday!


For more information, please visit the BOMF website, http://www.backonmyfeet.org/.


-Olivia 

Day 228 : Thanksgiving Dinners

Yesterday in the mail, I received a second request to give a contribution to the Boston Rescue Mission to help feed the hungry on Thanksgiving and/or provide shelter for those who are in need. Since we have different plans for the holiday this year and we are not hosting the usual family gathering, we decided we should help some people less fortunate than ourselves. The goal of the Rescue Mission is to provide 28,000 meals------we hope our donation will help them reach their goal.

Day 227: Toys for the St. Theresa Christmas Bazaar

Every year, our church holds a Christmas Bazaar that has become a regular outing for Sophia and myself.   November 19th is the big day this year, and today I was able to drop off some new and "like new" children's toys that are requested for The Children's Room, a place where kids can by inexpensive gifts for their siblings and friends.

So that was the easy part of our contribution!  Now we have to figure out what craft project Sophia will make to donate to the holiday themed craft table.  Last year, she made these adorable "Sweet Santa's" that followed a much treasured old "craft recipe" of her great grandmother, my Nana Bertha !  Using a brandy snifter, you decorate with felt to create the belly of a Santa and then top it with a styrofoam ball and felt hat.  Very cute and brought back many memories from my own childhood!  I just couldn't resist adding a photo (or two or three! to share the artistic talents of the littlest Cutler....but now I wonder if I've just put the pressure on because I'm thinking that this project is a tough act to follow!!   To be continued..........

Day 226: Ronald McDonald House

Today was going to be a nice, slow catch-up day to do things around the house, but as luck would have it, I received a call that there was an extra ticket to the Patriot's game, and off I went.  We had a great time tailgating on a beautiful fall afternoon.  Then the game started...  Not a good day for Patriot Nation.  However, in many of the public service announcements and throughout the stadium, it is clear how much the Patriots provide for many local charities.  Today there was a booth accepting donations to the Ronald McDonald house. 
The mission of Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) is to create, find and support programs that directly improve the health and well being of children.  They provide support for families while children are receiving treatment, and are involved in many programs that help children.  I was glad to donate, since it served as a distraction to the horrible game I was witnessing.

Day 225: A Day To Remember and Celebrate Friendship

Well, when I logged onto the challenge site just now, I had every intention of writing a quick ditty about bringing another case of empty bottles to the transfer station for the Lion's Club to redeem, which did happen today. But while looking at the blank screen, I felt like something (someone?) tapped me on the shoulder and suggested I write about the power of friendship and how it truly embodies all the elements of this blog:  service, support and volunteerism.  So I'm doing it! And it will be dedicated to the dear friend we just lost today, Ruth, and her devoted friends Jane and Philip.  Ruth has been my parents' neighbor and dear friend since forever ago.  We have all grown up and old together,  through many cheers and tears, celebrating life and love and loss together.  The absence of Ruth's remarkable personality, filled with generosity, compassion,  humor, intelligence and kindness, will be greatly missed by all the extended Rinck family....but especially by my parents.

The truth about friendship is that it's quite easy when life is showering you with happiness and good fortune.  But the defining measure of friendship is when life gets complicated..  When you're faced with a hail storm of sadness, fear and frustration that requires time, patience and understanding.  And it was in the confusing final months, leading up to the desperate final hours of Ruth's life, that my parents proved themselves to be the ultimate friends to a woman who would have certainly done the same for them.  They are truly a couple that will stay on the front lines until the finish, offering unwavering support and service to those who need them most.  We can't pick many things in life, but we can pick our friends, and clearly, Ruth, Philip and Jane all chose wisely.

Day 224: Yarn for my senior friends in Sherborn

Finally, I've discovered something besides Daddy's Cookies to gift to my friends at the Sherborn Council on Aging!

Tucked in their recent newsletter was a request for yarn to support their efforts to knit mittens and other holiday gifts for families in Appalachia.  Today, as I made my weekly trip to Joann Fabrics for my quilting supplies, I was happy to take a maiden voyage down the yarn aisle (knitting is not my cup of tea!) and pick up a bundle of yarn for the COA.

Happy knitting, my friends, and let me know when you need fleece remnants!!

Day 223: Fundraiser for local homeless shelter

I recently joined a professional healthcare fraternity at Penn, and the past couple weeks have been jam packed with pledging duties. Among other facts that my pledge class is required to memorize, the three pillars of the healthcare fraternity are: compassion, discipline, and integrity. As it was "compassion week," we were required coordinate a bake sale and donate the money to a charity of our choosing. Since there were 22 of us chosen for this year's pledge class, there was a lot of confusion and strong opinions regarding the details of the sale (it was especially difficult as we were given less than a week to plan this). But, many hands make light work, and we managed to set up a four hour long bake sale on Locust Walk today. I baked chocolate chip cookies the night before (which I am told were the first to be sold....even though they were from a box!) and we ended up raising $110. We chose to donate the money to the local student-run homeless shelter that just opened on November 1st. This is only the second student run homeless shelter in the nation (Harvard's has been successfully operating for 28 years). Since the shelter just opened and all of the workers are student volunteers, we figured our donation would be put to good use. In keeping with the compassion theme, we also handed out little paper hearts with messages to students walking by to brighten their day. Even if they didn't stop to buy anything, we ran up to people a shoved a heart in their hands, watching them smile as they read their message ("nice scarf!" "stay beautiful!" "great smile!"). It was probably one of the most fun bake sales I had ever worked, and it was great getting to know the members of my pledge class a little better.