Generosity

Brother Blessing

My brother was here for a visit since the weekend and he headed home today. We were sad to see him go as it was such a joy to have him here. I had made him a “honey-do” list before he came, so he was super helpful doing some things around the house. But that […]

Spa Day

I had almost forgotten that there is a world outside our 4 walls. Last November, my family generously pitched in and got me a spa day and overnight stay at a local resort. Covid-19 was running so high at that time, I didn’t feel comfortable going, so I postponed it until February. When February came […]

Hats For Newborns

I was happy to be able to visit with a friend for a while today. She told me about a woman she knows who works in a pregnancy crisis center. My friend does terrific needlework and makes super cute hats. Her friend asked for a hat for a new little baby. My friend then discovered […]

Surprise Treat

I received a call from one of the neighbors today. She makes amazing Irish soda bread that she shares with people, typically those going through a tough time. She brought some over last year when my dad came home after the stroke. When she called, she said she was going out and wanted to stop […]

Born in a Blizzard

Today was my sister’s birthday. We called Facetime as we do every year and sang “Happy Birthday” to her. My mom recounted the story of her birth. There was a blizzard when my mom went into labor and the snow was up to her knees. They figured it would be fastest for them to drive […]

More Prayer This Year

We attended Mass online again this morning and listened to an additional homily. Later in the day, my dad and I drove up to the church and dropped off the presents we bought for the “giving tree”. Even though we haven’t been able to attend Mass inside the church, we have been doing our best […]

Computer Guys

Last week some time, my dad started having trouble getting into his email inbox on his big computer which is named the “Big Mac”. I don’t use Apple products and was of no help at all, though I tried to troubleshoot with the little knowledge I have. Both brothers are out of state, but one […]

Generous Friend, Grateful Stranger

I was so happy to visit with a friend today. She told me a story of a man who showed up on her doorstep one afternoon. He looked haggard and worn. He said he had noticed all the leaves in her front yard and offered to clean them up. The man said that his hours […]

Mid Pandemic Quarantine Surprise

We got a “mid-pandemic-quarantine” surprise package from my brother yesterday. It was a blu-ray player and some movies. My dad and I worked on getting it set up today. When we came to the place where we weren’t sure what to do next, my dad called my brother on Facetime. He was able to walk […]

Fostering Hope Impact

The other day I received an email from the Fostering Hope organization regarding their annual fundraiser. This year, the event was online as many others are at this time due to the pandemic. I volunteered with the group for a couple of years until I realized I didn’t have enough “give” in me. I was […]