It's definitely been a challenging year for me. I have felt disconnected with people, places and the simple things that bring me pleasure. Work, but primarily managing my dad's health care, has consumed much of my time and attention.
I was reflecting on this recently and it struck me that the things I most enjoy doing I haven't been doing. With the approaching holidays, I decided it was the perfect time to get back on track and do the things I traditionally enjoy doing this time of the year. Two things immediately came to mind...baking and volunteering.
I love to bake, but these past few years I haven't done holiday baking because there isn't anyone at home to enjoy them with me. But, it is something I dearly miss doing and I need some therapy time in the kitchen.
Another thing I enjoy doing during my birthday month and the holidays is volunteering my time to a charity. This, too, hasn't happened the past several years and, yet, my soul is yearning to be charitable with either my time or my resources.
After pondering this deeply and even praying about it, I think I have come up with an idea that not only helps me, but will help you and help a charity.
It's as simple as this...I will donate my time baking homemade holiday cookies and treats, offer them to a small select group of friends (including YOU!) for a financial donation (the amount determined by you) that will be passed on to a charitable cause (minus my grocery expenses).
It's a WIN/WIN for everyone! I get my therapy time in the kitchen baking Christmas treats. You enjoy the deliciousness of homemade holiday goodies - free from grocery making lists, trips to the grocery store, hours in the kitchen and added pounds from taste-testing! And, a charity reaps the financial benefits!
The charitable cause I have chosen to support is Band of the Strong. It is a non-profit organization started by Zach Schafer (Rebecca's boyfriend) and his friend, Zak. They both volunteer their time to the organization and were recently given the Volunteer of the Year award by Grief's Journey in Omaha.
The mission of Band of the Strong is to give expressive art and musical opportunities to kids who are grieving over the death of loved ones, unexpected illnesses, economic hardship and more.
Neither Zach, Zak or Rebecca know about this initiative and won't until I give them a check! So, I need you to keep it a secret!
Make a list of family and friends who would love to receive a gift of homemade Christmas treats! Look at your calendar and make a list of the holiday parties and family gatherings you will need Christmas baked goods for. Are there other upcoming events you need baked goods for?
Scroll down and check out all of the tasty, delicious holiday baking options! Choose the baked goods you want for your gift giving and your holiday gatherings. And, don't forget about treating yourself!
Most all of the items freeze well so order extra and keep enjoying them well after the holidays!
Fill out and submit the online order form, indicating when you need your order(s) and the amount of your donation. (To help you determine the amount of your donation, I have included a "suggested" price with each baked item based on what you would pay if purchased from a local bakery or grocery store. You can donate any amount - less than or more than the suggested prices.)
Once I receive your order, I will email you an "invoice" that will allow you to make your donation via debit or credit card.
I need to receive all orders for Thanksgiving by November 18 - if not earlier. Otherwise, I will accept orders up until December 18 with December 23 being the last day for order pickup.
I am only offering this opportunity to a small group of friends who know ...
...my passion for baking;
...my experience in baking yummy treats;
...my giving and helping heart; or
...my daughter and her boyfriend and their giving and helping hearts.
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