Being Generous On a Budget – Part Three, Thirsty for Kindness

I live in Montana and one summer afternoon the temperature hit 105. Everyone was cranky and hot. I worked in a downtown office building and remember seeing countless numbers of homeless people laying against buildings and sitting under trees. They were clearly trying desperately to escape the scorching heat with whatever tiny piece of shade they could find amongst the hot, pavement parking lots. Whether we consider ourselves broke or not, most of us are able to enjoy the comfort of home when the temperatures outside become unbearable. Most of us are able to enjoy a cold glass of iced-tea, … Continue reading

Being Generous on a Budget, Part Two – You Don’t Need to Spend a Lot…to Give a Latte

Often when we think about generous people we think about people like Bill Gates who gives millions (maybe even billions) of dollars to our nation’s schools and other issues he is passionate about. Thankfully, you don’t need to be the wealthiest person in the universe to make the world a better place. In fact, you can make a difference even if you are the most frugal person in town. Let’s start with one of my personal “splurges”. I am passionate about my morning cup of coffee and I am sure there are numerous people who are just as enthusiastic about … Continue reading

Being Generous on a Budget, Part One – Comfort Them With Food

First of all, I hope everyone had a wonderful Easter Sunday. I know I certainly did. I am absolutely stuffed to the point where I can barely think (about anything other than food, anyway). Therefore, I guess it is appropriate that my first post-holiday blog post is all about food. During our holiday meal, my sister (who just had a new baby) thanked my mom for all of the food she brought her when she arrived home from the hospital. While most people send flowers, bring clothes, blankies and other baby gifts my mom brought a baked ham, some crock-pot … Continue reading

Paying it Forward

You’ve likely seen the movie or heard the concept about paying it forward? I’ve done it before and the holidays remind us of the concept of paying it forward and giving the gift of thoughtfulness. It’s even more thoughtful when you do it without hope for reward or acknowledgement. I pay it forward when I am in the drive thru line at Starbuck’s, in a restaurant or even in a toy store. Proposal Pay Forward On one message board, one poster described the story of how her son proposed to his girlfriend. He did it traditionally, in the middle of … Continue reading