A pledge and a promise

My final two gifts for this campaign will be collected tomorrow. Gift one will be tomorrow morning when I show up in proud support of the local MS Society as my wife and I walk in honor of my sister-in-law who has MS. Gift two will be my donation to the MS Society given in recognition for the work done by this organization and those they serve. To the organizers of 29 Days of Giving, a job well done and a thank you for inviting me to participate in this fun and sometime challenging month. Ken Schulz

On the road again......

I usually slink away from the nitty gritty of getting a fund raiser together but thanks to the 29 Days of Giving, I was inclined to get my hands dirty. The task that was asked to was to find gifts for a silent auction. That does not play well to my strengths but since I was asked and since I was mindful of the spirit of giving, I did get involved and did produce a few items much to my surprise. But, then there was a logistics problem as to how to get these gifts to the location in time for this Sunday's event. Again, I volunteered to do the leg work of gathering and transporting these silent auction items so that the folks that were truly neck deep in other details wouldn't get distracted. Besides, it was a nice afternoon to get out of the office. Ken Schulz

Put my money where my mouth is.

Early on in these 29 days I mentioned that I volunteered to emcee the annual fund raising effort for Apple Patch, a non profit, that I am actively involved with here in Oldham County. I have been an emcee for other events and other organizations in the past and always at no cost to the organization involved. My time is once again offered gladly for free. But, this time, I went and purchased two tickets for the event even though I have no use for them. I gave them back to Apple Patch to gift to someone who might not otherwise get a chance to go to this gala. Ken Schulz

Puppeteering

Saturday is not only the MS Walk, it's also the annual fundraiser for Squallis Puppeteers. My husband and I always try to attend or donate a piece of art to their auction. This year, we won't be doing either, so I sent them a donation in the mail to show our continued support of their mission and work.

http://www.squallispuppeteers.com/Squallis_Puppeteers/Feast_of_Fools_-_TV_Dinner.html

- Leigh White

Show You Care

This will be my last posting for the 29 Gifts challenge. I will be at the Walk so hopefully I will see some familiar faces. I asked a long time co-worker about his new grand baby today. A smile came to his face and said, I think I might have a couple of pictures. HA HA A simple gesture can make all the difference. To me, it says "I care". I think acts of kindness are contagious. So put yourself out there as a positive example for others. I was hoping I could come up with something really Witty for my last post, but I got Nothing. I guess we will have to leave that up to Ken Shulz! Last but not least, I would like to take this opportunity to thank Stacy Funk and all her staff for their dedication in fighting this debilitating disease. See you at the Walk!!! Theresa Edwards

Today was meals on wheels day once again. Two weeks in a row. All of our receipients seemed well. There is one man in particular that is my favorite stop. It never fails, everytime he opens his door he has the biggest smile and always a kind word. Its been a busy week. Looking forward to the walk and seeing some familiar faces on Saturday. Have a good day!
Theresa Edwards

Retro Photos

Sunday, April 4

Since digital cameras have replaced those with film, most people have stopped printing photos. While I don't print every photo I take, I tend to stay on top of having prints made and I always order doubles to share with friends who are in them. Recipients are always surprised and often tell me, "I can't remember the last time I had a hard copy of a photo."

Today I ordered prints of the photos we took on our recent trip to Los Angeles. These are for our personal album but also for the album I'm making for our hosts. I hope they like the little surprise.

- Leigh White

A Little More Spunk

I seem to have a little more spunk in my step today. Not sure why but I think it might have some to do with the beautiful morning we had. A nice breeze and warm enough to go without a jacket. I stopped to get fuel this morning, had a brief conversation with the sales clerk, bought two 1$ Powerball tickets and walked out the door. On my way out, a young man was coming in at which time I handed him one of the tickets. He had the nicest smile and said "Thank you". As I was about to get back on the road, he Thanked me once more. I told him that "when" he won, he had better spend the money wisely. I told him to have a nice day, waived and was on my way. Would'nt that be icing on the cake if he won something from that ticket? Enjoy the day!
Theresa Edwards

I made it!

Easter Sunday I completed my 29 Days of Giving. I also saw my last clinical patient since I was completing my last attending duties at the Hospital. After caring for patients for over 25 years it was ironic that it would end on Easter. I guess I am now reborn to a new life. It has been the hardest thing of my life to say goodbye to patients and staff that I have worked with for years. I learned from the 29 Days of Giving that no matter what loss I was experiencing that I was given so much more over the years. There can be no greater gift than to care for people that need assistance. The ability to impart knowledge and to provide care is the greatest gift that one can have. It validates one's exsistence and makes every day special. I have had no greater privilege than to participate in the care on individuals who by no fault of their own are facing a challenging medical condition.
I hope that I may continue to provide a valid service in my new position to the MS population. I thank those who worked with me for sharing my passion in trying to provide the best care available to our patients. I have been the beneficiary of so many unspoken gifts over the years that I am inspired to continue the Days of Giving.
Dr. K

Ta Da!

My gift today and one promised to be delivered last Friday was the gift of blood. I had decided in my first days of this 29 days of giving that I was finally going to do this. No backing out. All I had to do was make that commitment and it took me until the last few days of this adventure to do it. It has always been that way with me....I'd always get around to it, eventually. I know people do it all the time but I don't and I really should. Evidently, I have that kind of blood that is not all that common and is in demand. Besides, I have always been able to make more. They say I should be able to count this as 3 gifts for all they can do with a pint of blood these days. Not bad for 7 minutes of work. In any case I write this to you today, a pint low but on a personal high. Ken Schulz

A well done book becomes well read and well travelled.

As so many others have done, it was my turn to spread the good word. After reading Cami Walker's book, it was my wife's turn and then her mother's. Now "29 Gifts" is on it's way to Illinois to be delivered to my sister-in-law who was my inspiration to get involved with our 29 days of giving. Shelly was diagnosed with MS over 20 years ago and she remains nothing short of a force of nature. With some of the hurdles that lady has managed to jump, I believe she could write her own book. Ken Schulz

A telemarketers' dream come true.

I, too, have been out of the loop the past few days and will do my best to catch up. I donate to my Alma Mater's scholarship fund once a year. Now, that doesn't stop them from contacting me 6 times a year but I stick to my one donation per year and that usually is in August, I've done that for 36 years. I got a call Saturday afternoon from this young gentleman who is a student at St. Louis University (my Alma Mater) and he, not surprisingly, was asking for a donation. I can't fault him at all, he was doing his job and probably earning a few bucks as well. The young man read his script very well and was a little over the top in enthusiasm whenever I answered one of his questions. "What do you do for a living, Mr. Schulz", he asked. "As little as possible", I replied. "Fascinating!", he bubbled. You got the picture. Bright and early in our conversation, I informed the gentleman that I would not be donating at this time. But he persisted and read more of his script and was thrilled with all my replies. At the end of all this, he asked me again for a donation and again I said no. He acknowledged that he had heard me the first time but it was the first time he had gotten to the end of the prepared script without being cut off or beaten to the punch. He also admitted that he won the contest for the day for the first one on his shift to have accomplished that feat. He thanked me and I wished him well. Ken Schulz

Better Late Then Never

Sorry, I have been out of the loop for several days. My first excuse is that we do not have Internet at home so any & all posts must be while at work (And no, I'm not a SLACKER). I try to preplan so as not to use to much of work time. My second excuse is a "bug" got the best of me for a couple of days. Anyway, I'm feeling much better and back on that Horse. Easter at my sister's was busy, but enjoyable. Once she finally took the time to set down, I volunteered to give her a foot rub of which she thoroughly enjoyed. I called to check on my father today who also seems to be under the weather. (Must be something going around) Bed rest and lots of fluids seemed to do the trick for me. Looking forward to the walk this weekend, it will be a first for me. Theresa Edwards

Breaking Eggs

Saturday, April 3

We invited one of our Bulgarian friends over for soup and salad at lunch today. He doesn't have any family in the U.S. and often gets especially homesick during the holidays. We wanted him to celebrate Easter with us, even though it was a day early. In Bulgaria, it's a tradition to break dyed, hardboiled eggs on Easter. As he was leaving, we gave him two eggs that we dyed and decorated so he could break them on Sunday. 

- Leigh White

A Letter to My Daughter

I've been inspired by those other bloggers who've been writing letters and cards to friends and family members. I decided that I would spend some time writing to my unborn daughter today. She'll be here in less than two months and I want her to know all the hopes and dreams that I have for her. I think this will be quite special to her when she's older, and it made a nice addition to the baby book I'm compiling for her. Perhaps I'll try to write her a letter a year as a keepsake.

- Leigh White

Does commitment count?

I commited myself to do something Monday. Something I should have done a long time ago but I always have had a convenient excuse not to do it. I own this gift but don't think much about it but it's invaluable to someone who needs it. I hear what I own can be considered rare. I don't know about that, my whole family has it. Again, I don't think about it until I see it and then it's usually by accident. If I give this gift up, I can come up with more. So what's the big deal? No big deal, just I have never done this until I started thinking about 29 gifts in 29 days. Once I have formally agreed to do something, I will do it. I don't walk away. So my gift today was that commitment. I will deliver on part II of this gift at 3:15 Monday afternoon. Ken Schulz

A bunch for lunch.

A couple of my friend and I decided to have lunch together downtown yesterday but the whole idea wasn't to see each other and catch up rather it was to invite another friend along who at this point is without employment. There was no surprise element, we told our friend exactly what this was. It was a networking lunch and he was the guest of honor. We didn't guaranteee anything for him other that a free lunch but we'd kick ideas around and toss out a few names. Lunch was good but friendships like these are the best.....and no heartburn later. Ken Schulz

Spring Gift

My friend has recently purchased a new house and accompanying unlandscaped yard. On a previous visit to our house, she expressed an interest in our curly willow tree. After she left, we cut a branch to root for her. The branch has grown some impressive roots, so I took it to her this afternoon while she was working in her back yard. She was excited to have it and had picked out the perfect spot to plant it her yard before I left. It's so much fun to share plants with friends, especially in early spring when the inspiration for yard work is high.

- Leigh White

Circle of Life (JAH)

Wednesday, March 31 (Day 20): I am admittedly the biggest sap in the world. Probably the height of my sappiness came about 14 years ago when as I was standing among 40,000+ people at an Elton John concert in the RCA Dome in Indianapolis I started crying when he played the song Cirle of Life from the movie Lion King. It is a sweet song anyway, but it has very special meaning to me b/c when my niece first came to live with my parents when she was 1 1/2 years old, she and I would spend hours watching the movie Lion King. I had even bought her a Simba stuffed animal that she would hold while sitting on my lap watching the movie. I have always wanted to keep thinking about my niece as that little girl who sat on my lap holding Simba and watching that movie. Well, she isn't that little girl any more. She is a 17 year old young woman who (like all people) struggles sometimes to make the right decisions. Her decision making process is complicated by the fact that she has huge anger issues with her mother and father who were both mired in severe drug problems and were simply not parents to her at that time. My niece has made some pretty bad decisions lately. I reached the point several months ago where I was tired of trying to help her only to see her make further wrong decisions and finally decided that I was "done spending any emotional or physical energy on her". That decision has really been bothering me. So today I decided that I would reach back out to her and let her know that I loved her and was there for her if she needed and wanted my help. I still don't agree with many of the decisions that she has made lately, but it doesn't mean I don't love her and certainly doesn't mean that I don't want to help her if she wants the help. I mailed her a card telling her all of that. I hope she takes me up on my offer to reconnect.

- Jeff Hamilton

Amateur Masseuse

After a backbreaking day of washing the exterior of our house and maintaining his patience with our three-year-old daughter, my husband was exhausted. I decided that my gift today would be a nice back rub. He fell asleep during the massage, so it must have been just what he needed. An unexpected gift to my spouse should always be my priority since he's my partner, best friend and confidante. Sometimes we overlook giving gifts to the most important people in our lives and I don't want to fall victim to that.

- Leigh White

Tape was rolling.

I was a little gift -starved today. It happens! But, before the work day was through I noticed the cubicle of this young lady who sits outside my office. She is learning the trade and has posted copious notes on legal pad paper and scotch taped them all around her for quick and easy reference. However, she used that cheap, semi-sticky tape that I like to use for Christmas gift wrapping as it doesn't get stuck to your fingers. It's true! I have done considerable research on the stickyosity of gift wrapping tape. But, I digress. Anyway, all these sheets of notes began falling off her wall like leaves off a tree in the fall. I, the aforementioned Titan of Tape, came to the rescue and with the help of a department manager replaced all the semi-sticky tape with super-sticky tape and hung the cheat sheets back where they fell from. It was the best I could do today. Ken Schulz

Enjoy the day

Today a co-worker and I are privelaged to deliver food for Meals on Wheels. You know all their names, where they live and even some of their quirks. Some are more talkative than others so the times I deliver, I take it as a challenge to at least get a smile out of each and every one. I also called on my sister this morning. She has started a couple of days a week to "sit" with an elderly couple. The husband is dyeing of cancer & the wife has the beginning stages of Alzheimers. I hear stories like this and realize how blessed our family is. Her first day seemed to go well. She looks forward to her next visit. Have a good day!
Theresa Edwards

Where it all Began (JAH)

Tuesday, March 30 (Day 19): Today was my "little boy's" 7th birthday. He is not such a little boy anymore, although he started out that way. He was only 5 lbs 7 ounces when he was born b/c he was about 3 weeks premature. Actually, the fact that he was premature is how we ended up with Matthew. It is a pretty amazing story. You see, Matthew's birthmother had originally selected other adoptive parents. When she went in for her doctor's appointment 4 weeks before her delivery date, the doctor told her that she was going to deliver in a few days. When she called her original adoptive parents she called to tell them that Matthew would be born in a couple days, the previously selected adoptive parents told her that they did not want a premature baby!! Can you believe that. Well, the birthmother called the agency crying b/c she was going to have a child without adoptive parents and they told her not to worry that they had the perfect adoptive parents for her, US!!! Jean rushed down to meet her at the adoption agency and 36 hours later on March 30, 2003 our son was born!

Because he was premature, Matthew's sucking reflex had not fully developed so he would barely eat any formula. In fact, he ended up spending 9 days in the neo-natal ICU because he wouldn't eat more than 40 ml of formula at one time. That is only 1 small dropper and the kid wouldn't eat it. Now we watch him eat non-stop all day long. lol. During those 9 days Jean and I literally lived in a small room at the hospital. The nursing staff at the hospital was absolutely amazing to us. They knew we were adoptive parents and they cared for us with as much compassion and tenderness as they cared for Matthew. We really felt like they were our guardian angels during those days at the hospital. We even had one of the nurses come into our room one night and ask us to talk about the adoption process b/c she and her husband had just found out that they could not have kids. We have never forgotten the incredible kindness the nurses at the hospital showed to us 7 years ago. Today, I picked up Matthew at his school and we drove out to the hospital where he was born and dropped off a big tray of cookies and brownies and a thank you card to the current nursing staff of the nursery unit. Matthew got to see where he was born and I got to once again say thanks to those responsible for making the first 9 days of Matthew's life the best 9 days of our lives.

- Jeff Hamilton

Two-Gift Tuesday

After having such an amazing long weekend with my husband and friends, I was feeling especially generous today. I treated my carpool partner to a muffin and a latte for breakfast this morning and took a few extra minutes to respond to a fundraising request that I received from a friend by email. She is running in the mini marathon to raise money for Gilda's Club Louisville. I'm glad to support her athletic efforts and a great non-profit organization in our community.

- Leigh White

Tourist Tee

Monday, March 29

Oftentimes we overlook the gifts we give to our children since we're always buying them things. While we were on our trip to L.A. I wanted to be certain to pick up something for our daughter who didn't get to join in on our fun. We chose a very hip L.A. tourist tee for her and presented it to her today. She was excited that it sparkled and has told us thank you for it several times. I'm so glad that we've instilled this sense of gratitude for gifts in her. 

- Leigh White

Gas 'Er Up

Sunday, March 28

We set off for Malibu, the Getty Villa and Venice Beach. Since everything in the L.A. area is far apart, we had been burning through our friends' gas during our trip. We stopped at a gas station to refuel before our journey and I took the opportunity to treat my friends to a tank of gas. They were reluctant to take the gift, but I insisted. We zoomed down the coast on Highway 1 on our dime.

- Leigh White

A Relaxing Saturday

Saturday, March 27

After a pleasant morning hike in Mt. Washington, a neighborhood of Los Angeles, and our visit to Griffith Park Observatory, we set off for a relaxing afternoon at the Farmers Market at Third and Fairfax. While lunching and lounging, we treated our friends to a pitcher of beer, an apple fritter and Fancy Nancy ice cream. It was a delightful sunny afternoon in L.A.

- Leigh White

Coffee Buzz

Friday, March 26

Today my husband and I flew to Los Angeles to visit friends and enjoy a relaxing long weekend. Our coffee-loving host is from Louisville and misses some of his local brews, so we decided to take him a bag of dark roast beans from Highland Coffee. He was happy to see it, but he completely outdid our modest gift by having a full gift basket prepared for us. The surprise included L.A. souvenirs, postcards, snacks, drinks and soap. We were completely struck by his kind gesture. He was already giving us a huge gift by putting us up for free at his place for three days and carting us around the city. What a generous guy!

- Leigh White 

In comparison, my day was great!

A friend and co-worker was having one of those days. We've all been there. We all know what it's like. I called to give her a little good cheer and told the story of my wife singing "Happy Birthday" when the minister had asked us to bow our heads in prayer. It's truly a longer story than that but my wife had been distracted and frankly her hearing could be better. The result was what I was hoping for, the sound of a good, hearty laugh. It did us both some good. Remind me to tell you about it the next time we meet. Ken Schulz

Oh, all right, I'll do it!

There's no delicate way to tell this story. In the men's bathroom on my floor there are 3 sinks with 3 soap dispensers. One soap dispenser broke last September. Now we all thought that in due course this broken soap dispenser would get fixed. We thought that way at Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years, Valentine's Day and the first day of spring. We thought that way as we stood in line to use one of the remaining 2 dispensers. I thought that way this morning until I got an incredible idea, I would call somebody and report it. At 9 o'clock I picked up the phone and made the call. By noon it had been fixed. I now wash my hands of this. On to my next good deed! Ken Schulz

Coffee Break

Stopped into the Kroger Store this morning on my way to work. Already I was wondering what my gift would be today. As I was leaving I decided to work my way over to the Starbucks which is located inside Kroger. The lady asked my order. I told her I did not have an order (I'm really not a big fan) but I did want to leave $5.00 toward the order of the next customer. She had somewhat of a confused look and said Thank you. I wonder what was going through her mind as I walked away. Get outside and enjoy this beautiful day!!!!!!
Theresa Edwards

The Greatest Gift (JAH)

Monday, March 29 (Day 18): Just about 7 years ago to this moment, my wife and I got the phone call that would change our lives forever. My son's birthmother (B) called to tell us she was going into labor. We jumped into our car and sped to the hospital in Elizabethtown. Just a little more than 13 hours later our son Matthew was born. We got to be in the delivery room and even got to cut the umbilical cord. It was an amazing experience. After an unsuccessful IVF treatment and 2 failed adoptions, finally we had our baby in our arms. The incredible happiness we experienced at that moment and the joy and love Matthew has brought to us during the past 7 years are result of the greatest gift of all, the courageous decision by his birthmother to give him up for adoption. I can't imagine what a difficult decision that had to be for her to make and stick with as she held Matthew in her arms 2 days after delivery. You see, in Kentucky she could have changed her mind at any point in the process (even after birth) up until the day when she appeared in court to sign away her parental rights. That day eventually happened about 30 days after he was born and we lived in fear of her changing her mind until it occurred. After holding him, feeding him, chaning him, bringing him home, having our family and friends see and hold him, I can't even imagine the devastation we would have felt if she had changed her mind. Thank God, she did not change her mind.

My gift today is to Matthew. I have written a letter to him to go into his memory box telling him how special his birthmother is and how much I admire the courage and strength she showed in putting him up for adoption. There are other things in his memory box about her, and I want this letter to be part of it. When the time is right, I want Matthew to know his birthmother or at least know about her. That is a tough emotion for an adoptive parent to reconcile b/c there is a part of you that is afraid for your adopted child to meet or get to know his/her birthparent(s).
But we owe so much of our happiness to her b/c of her decision and of all the people in the world that I want my son to get to know, it is people like her that have such incredible inner strength and conviction. Happy almost birthday Matthew and thank you B for being such a strong woman and giving us the greatest gift all.

- Jeff Hamilton

Busy Weekend

As we were leaving the Fish Fry on Friday evening in Starlight, a van with a young couple pulled up beside us needing directions to Greenville. Before Ray could get through with the directions, you could almost see there heads spinning. I guess these roads do get a little confusing if you're not used to driving in this area, especially at dark. We ended up having them follow us and we got them well on their way back to Greenville. Saturday we worked at cleaning on my Mother-In-Law's house which will hopefully be sold soon. We have got quite a bit of work to do in so little time. I keep telling myself "stay the course and take one day at a time." Happy Monday!
Theresa Edwards

Some Things Do Change (JAH)

Sunday, March 28 (Day 17): Matthew and I stopped by my Mom's house today after baseball practice. My older sister showed up to take my Mom to a movie and dinner. It was good to see her. She is having a very hard time of it right now with her 17 year old daughter. I don't know all of what is going on, but from the outside looking in, my sister seems to be handling the situation as well as any parent could and I am very proud of her for that. I have not always been proud of my sister. She has had a history of serious drug problems and b/c of the drugs my mother and father had to raise my niece until she was about 13. Clearly my sister's past is a big reason for my niece's troubles, but as for now, my sister seems to be on the right path and really trying as hard as she can to be a good parent to my niece. And that is no easy task. Seeing my sister today lead me to write her an encouraging note and send it to her to let her know that I was proud of her for turning her life around and for doing the things necessary to be there as a mother for her daughter during these difficult times.

- Jeff Hamilton

From Shark Boy to Jacob (JAH)

Saturday, March 27 (Day 16): My friend Judy is the biggest reason that I am involved with the National MS Society. She has MS. An extremely progressive form of MS. Nothing seems to work to stem the progression of the disease on her body. Drug treatments don't work. Blood transfusions don't work. Even intense chemotheraphy no longer works. The heartbreaking reality is that her options are extremely limited at this point. Today was her 51st birthday. Our family and her sister and brother-in-law went to her house to celebrate her birthday.

Judy is a single parent with 2 daughters. Daisy is 9 and Zoe is 16. Both are adopted like our son Matthew. Our families are so close that we think of each other as just that, family. Her oldest daughter and I have always had a pretty cool relationship. I know less about parenting a 16 year old young lady than anyone on the face of this earth, but somehow she and I have always been very close. On my bedroom wall hangs a framed poem/picture that she made for me about 6 years ago entitled "My Best Friend". It is priceless. When she and I are together sometimes we talk about "stuff" and sometimes we don't. It is totally up to her. When we do talk, we talk about all kinds of stuff. I think she likes the outlet. She is a special young lady. We started going to movies together years ago basically as a way for her to get alone time with me away from her younger sister. lol. The first movie we ever saw together was about 10 years ago when we saw Shark Boy and Lava Girl. The last movie we saw together was Twilight: New Moon. Apparently, Shark Boy (or at least the actor who played him) has grown all up into the new hottie (her word, not mine!) Jacob in New Moon. The same one who made the entire theater of young ladies (incluing Zoe) scream when he took off his shirt in the movie. Wow, how things have changed over 10 years. lol. Well, as you might imagine, her mother's MS has been extraordinarily hard on Zoe on so many levels. Zoe isn't feeling well tonight so I only get to see her for a few minutes. However, in that short time she and I make a date to go get lunch in a couple of weeks and see another movie together. We also talk about doing some more driving practice together. She got a big smile on her face so I am pretty sure she is excited about our planned afternoon together. What she doesn't know is that I am even more excited than she is.

- Jeff Hamilton

They really are special.

It's Sunday. It's raining. Kentucky lost to West Virginia last night. My universe is spinning widely out of control. OK, enough self pity. My gift today is to the Special Olympics. I don't know if you have ever had the chance to meet a Special Olympian but that is a gift unto itself. There are never any losers just competition and accomplishments wrapped in friendship. No tantrums, no egoes, it's special! Today I wrote my check to sponsor a Special Olympian. Ken Schulz

Charity may begin at home but it doesn't have to end there.

You would just have to know my Mother-in Law but here is 82 years of determination, spirit and strength and you get to experience it all when you try to pay for her lunch. She simple won't have it! Generous to a fault but she won't except anyone paying her way, especially her family. So we ate out for lunch yesterday and, when it came time to pay the bill, we had our typical showdown but this time I was better prepared. "No you won't", said she. "Yes I will", said I. But when she started to hand over the money for her share of the meal, I asked her if she had a special organization that she donated to in her church. That stopped her right in her charitable tracks. She said that her church some ministry work in her community and she was obviously quite proud of it. I asked her to take all of that $8.25 and contribute to that cause in my name. Case and pocketbook closed! This will never be an issue again. Ken Schulz

Bugs Bunny, Al Pacino and Uncle Tom the same age? (JAH)

Friday, March 26 (Day 15): The Uncle that I wrote about a few days ago turns 70 today. It doesn't seem possible. He is more like a friend than an uncle and thus he seems more like a contemporary. I love shopping for birthdays. Yesterday I went to Cracker Barrel to buy What Happened in ... 1940. Love those books. So in 1940 a new car cost $850, a new home $3750 and stamps ar $.03. Today is shopping day. I set out to buy all things 1940. Al Pacino was born in 1940. Must buy him Godfather. Duh!!!! Grapes of Wrath was Pulitzer Prize winner. He must have the book and the movie b/c Steinbeck and Henry Fonda both rock. Seriously, Ted Koppel and Tom Brokaw were both born in 1940 only 2 days apart from one another. Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey and Artie Shaw led the music hit parade. Frank Sinatra debuted live in 1940. I purchase about 15 different things that scream 1940 and we have a birthday celebration for him. He deserves every bit of it. What a great guy.

- Jeff Hamilton

To be Young Again (JAH)

Thursday, March 25 (Day 14): There is a remarkable young woman at the University of Louisville that has organized a MS Awareness event at the school for today. Her father has MS. She has amazing strength and determination for such a young person. She recently came to the Chapter's advocacy day in Frankfort and at our Cami Walker reception. I decide to spend a couple of hours of my time to go to the event in order to support her in her efforts. It was amazing to watch her and her friends and other young people speaking about their experience coping with MS or having to care for someone with MS. It underscores the reality that MS is NOT an "old persons" disease. Although I do not know that I am going to be asked to speak, I am called to the stage to say a few words as the Chairman of the Board. What, a chance to hear myself talk? I am all in!!! lol. I speak for about 10 minutes and then the program winds down. I buy a couple of t-shirts and then spend about 45 minutes talking to guests. It is amazing to connect to people like this. Some days you just really feel like you are making a difference in this world. Today was one of those days. What a great feeling. I wish they all were like today!!

- Jeff Hamilton

Dear Friends (JAH)

Wednesday, March 24 (Day 13): I have a dear friend who lives far away. We used to work together here in Louisville until she moved away to New York. She now lives near Boston. Sometimes we talk and/or email several times a week. Other times we go several days without communicating. Still other times we go much longer periods without connecting. Regardless, whenever we do connect up, it is as if we have been talking every day. I decide today that I am going to send her my last copy of Cami Walker's book 29 Gifts. She is an incredibly introspective person and I think she will really connect with Cami's message.

- Jeff Hamilton

Not so rushed hour

Have you ever tried leaving a parking garage in a city during rush hour. You can wait a very long time. I've been there and I know. Today was my chance to do it right. I was leaving work and traffic was backed up on this street in downtown where there stands a parking garage. Cars that were trying to leave the garage where backed up 3 and 4 deep in both exit lanes of the garage. I stopped and let all 7 cars in front of me. The guy behind me wasn't real happy but those 7 in front of me loved me for a moment. Ken Schulz

You can see clearly now.

I spent most of the yesterday on the road. Yes, I allowed people to cut in front of me on the highway and stuff like that but about the only worthwhile thing I did was leave a few pennies in the cup on the counter at a fast food place for people to use the pennies when they purchance a meal for $5.01. Not exactly earthshaking. When I stopped for gas at the end of the day there was a lady unloading window washer fluid boxes from a dolly for an outside display. While my car was being gassed up, I helped unload. Here's looking more clearly at you kid. Ken Schulz

Day 20

I am not a faithful blogger but intermittently share some of my experiences as I participate in the 29 Days of Giving Challenge. Presently in a very unsettled position, I have found that giving moves my thoughts away from my personal situation and allows me to focus on others. I have made it to Day 20 without a break which is somewhat of a challenge in itself. The longer I participate, however, the easier it becomes. Once you start thinking about sharing the easier it is to find ways. I urge all to read Cami's book and give it a try.

Copy Cat

I guess you could call me a "Copy Cat" blogger. I read a previous blog which involved volunteering at a community Fish Fry. I never really thought of listing this as one of my gifts until then. Anyway, my husband, Ray and I volunteer each Friday during the Lenten season at our community Fish Fry (St John, Starlight). I enjoy it not only for the camaraderie but also I get to talk with a lot of people that I don't often see. Tonight is the last one so if you're out and about and would like a good meal and a homemade dessert, stop on in!
Theresa Edwards

Madame President (JAH)

Tuesday, March 23 (Day 12): The president of our local Chapter of the National MS Society is a remarkable woman. Stacy has been with our Chapter for just about a year and thankfully she has stuck with it. It is an incredibly challenging job. First and foremost, she has to deal with me as the Chairman of the Board. She also has to deal with the difficulties of the current economic climate. However she does it, she marches on and does it successfully.

We met for lunch today to talk about a number of Chapter issues. Meeting with Stacy is always a pick-me-up because she is such a positive, inspirational person. She is the epitome of a "glass half full" kind of person and I always feel so inspired after we meet. We stay and chat for about 2 hours, I buy her lunch and instead of going to my office, I decide to go work at home so I can be there when my son gets home from school. He gets home, studies for his 2 tests for a while, then we wrestle on the den floor. When the heck did he get so big, strong and fast?!?! He is only 6 and he is stronger than I am. I then go and get dinner for the family and cook while the studying continues. It has been a great day. Thanks Stacy for being such a great leader in sooooo many ways!!

- Jeff Hamilton

Visions of my Grandmother (JAH)

Monday, March 22 (Day 11): My Grandmother on my father's side passed away a few years ago at the age of 91. She was an amazing woman and very independent. My grandfather passed away in 1966 and she had lived on her own since his death. As she was aging and her eyesight got worse, she limited her driving in a a strange, but very effective way. For about 5 years, she would go out driving only one time each week and make all of her stops in a specific pattern so that she never had to make a left hand turn against traffic. She would make only right hand turns to the drugstore, then the hardware store, then the bank, then the grocery and finally back home. One big square. lol. As her eyesight worsen further she stopped driving her 1964 Chevelle, but she refused to give up her car keys. No matter what my father said to her, she refused to relinquish those keys. It frustrated the heck out of him but I thought it was great. She told me that once she gave up her keys, she felt that her independence would be gone. Her favorite saying to me used to be: "You know Jeff, if I could just get someone to back my car out of my long narrow driveway for me, I would be fine to drive!"

I couldn't help but think of my grandmother today when I was at the grocery store and saw an elderly woman struggling to get her bags into her car. I helped her load her bags into her car and after I was done she asked me if I could help direct her out of her parking space. I did so with a smile on my face, thinking about my grandmother and almost hearing her say "if I could just get someone to help me back my car out ...."

- Jeff Hamilton

Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day (JAH)

Sunday, March 21 (Day 10): Some days are just bad days for little 6 year old boys. Today was one of those days. He didn't want to do his homework. He didn't want to clean his room. He didn't want to do his homework. He didn't want to brush his teeth. And did I mention he really didn't want to do his homework. Well, his bad day translated into a very frustrating day for his Mommy. So after a full day of this, I went up to the store and bought a card and flowers for Matthew to give to his Mommy to make up for the bad day.

- Jeff Hamilton

What it is all about (JAH)

Saturday, March 20 (Day 9): Sometimes things happen that just makes all of the time and hard work seem worth it. This morning we had a MS Chapter Board Meeting/Retreat and as part of the morning we had a young man come and speak to the Board. The young man was diagnosed with MS while in high school. Despite battling the disease, he graduated with an outstanding academic record and was awarded a scholarship from our Chapter to help defray some of the costs of going to college. His mother has said that without the scholarship, he most likely would not have been able to go to college. He is now attending the University of Louisville and came to tell the Board about his first year in college. The best part about what he said was that it sounded like the experience of any other freshman in college. It was so great to hear about his year and how well he was doing. Honestly, he is such an inspiration. I want to do what I can to help more young folks like him go to college. When I got home I wrote a check to the MS Chapter and restricted it for use for its scholarship fund.

- Jeff Hamilton

Sweet Treat

This morning I packed my lunch before going to work as I often do. Around noon a coworker suggested that we go out for lunch. I couldn't pass up the opportunity to enjoy a meal and a break with friends, so I acquiesced. We enjoyed a pleasant lunch and then I treated my friends to dessert. A small gesture, but one they enjoyed.

I carted my packed lunch back home where it waits in the refrigerator to be eaten tomorrow.

- Leigh White

Walking in someone else's shoes

I received a phone call from a friend (I will call her Betty) regarding another friend (I will call him Phil) that had fallen on hard times. Betty called me to bounce some ideas around as far as helping him to get the help he needed. After several phone calls, we were able to connect Phil with an organization in Louisville that could help him with his problem. I thanked God for the person on the other end of that line as he said, yes I think we can help him. This experience has enlightened me greatly. Whether it be the MS Society, a homeless shelter, a chemical abuse facility, etc., you never realize how much support they can provide until you walk in those shoes.
Thanks so much to all who help keep these organizations running, whether it be via contributions, volunteering or full time employment.
Theresa Edwards

following Cami's advice

I was having a little trouble coming up with my gift today until I remembered Cami's suggestion from her speech. She said that a wonderful way to start one's 29-Day Giving Challenge was to make a gift to the MS Society. I took her advice today and made a contribution to the walk. It's just one small way to show how grateful I am for being introduced to this challenge and this inspirational group of ambassadors. Have each of you made your contribution to the MS Society?

- Leigh White

Things Taken

Over the last months many of the accomplishments that I had worked so hard to achieve have been slowly disappearing. I was beginning to succumb to a feeling of significant loss. Starting the 29 Gifts Challenge has given me back a positive sense of being. As I give things away, I am receiving joy just form the act. I look forward to the next opportunity to give.

Hailing an elevator?

You can hail a cab so why not another mode of transportation? I pressed the elevator button this morning and waited. How lucky was this? I was the only one there at the bank of 6 elevators so I was pretty much guaranteed a non-stop ride to my floor. Two minutes later I was still standing there with 8 more of my newest friend. When the elevator door opened, everybody waited for me to go first since I had gotten noticable older just waiting for this moment. Instead I stepped back and waved them all on ahead of me saying that I'd get the next one as there was nothing pressing on my agenda that I couldn't wait. I did get the next ride and you guessed it, hit every floor on the ride up. Ken Schulz

Shame on me!

This may not qualify as a gift I gave to another but perhaps one that I gave to myself. Call it redemption. For a self absorbing moment, I was somebody that wouldn't get involved. A couple of days ago I was leaving a building when I noticed this women sitting on a bench just inside the entrance slightly bent over and looking rather intense. People were coming and going and before I gave it a second thought I had walked past her and was on the sidewalk outside. It was then that I had my "second thought". What did I just do? I had walked by this lady with not having said a single word. I went back to her and asked if there was anything I could do to help. It turned out that she suffered a little too much from over exertion after some surgery and her husband was getting the car. I stayed with her until the husband had returned. She thanked me but I didn't see why. I asked for her to forgive me for walking past her the first time. May it never be to late to correct ones mistakes. Ken Schulz

Lucky Day

I stopped in to Sav-A-Step in Floyds Knobs this morning. I purchased one Indiana & one Powerball ticket. I gave the Powerball ticket back to the cashier and asked if she would give this ticket to the next customer. I think she might have been a little surprised but I did get somewhat of a smile. I got into my vehicle and noticed that she had given me $3.00 in change. I could have sworn I had given her $10 so I went back in and politely said "I think I gave you a ten" and before I could say anything else she said "Oh no, you gave me a $5. I always watch my money". It would serve her right if she came up $5 over when she balances out. I dropped my head and returned to my truck. By the time I got to work, I had finally convinced myself to just let it go. GOOD LUCK to my anonymous recipient.
Theresa Edwards

Book Exchange

I finished reading Cami's book last night and immediately knew that I couldn't let it sit on my bookshelf. Today, I took the book with me to the office and gave it to my boss. I left the little surprise in her in box with a short note. I know she will appreciate the subject matter, as she's quite a generous person. Plus, I feel like I'm finally returning the favor. She often leaves books and magazines for me that she thinks I would enjoy, and I'm very appreciative of these gestures and always struck by her thoughtfulness.

- Leigh White

Try laughing. It's fun!

I was suppose to give a little speech today to a group of seniors. It was early in the day and I think we were all a little afraid of how long I might go and how boring I might be. Trust me when I say, I have been with me for 56 years and I know how long and boring I can be. So my audience had every right to be fretful. I decided to tell a joke to get things started. It was wonderful! No, not the joke, that was awful but everybody had a joke they wanted to share and did! I never had to work so little to fill up my speaking time. We spent 20 fast and fun minutes. Somebody once said that you always "leave them laughing". Well, this time I left laughing and now I have a dozen more jokes to add to my repertoire. Ken Schulz

Meet Me Half Way

What possible good can come from me blogging about my sister-in-law? Got your attention I bet! Fussy (that's not her real name but I changed it to protect her ID...cleaver, huh.) and I have not always seen eye to eye but we love each other as family's do. Fussy was going to drive her Mom from South Carolina to Louisville this weekend to visit us. That's 8 hours driving this way on Saturday and 8 hours driving that way on Sunday. I called my sister-in-law last weekend and told her that if she was willing, I would meet her half way. We could meet at a Cracker Barrel Restaurant in Knoxville around lunchtime and that I would even buy lunch. Mom would then drive the rest of the way back to Louisville with us. She genuinely seemed grateful for the offer but she won't let me buy her lunch. She has insisted on buying my lunch for me. Oh well, to keep peace in the family, I'll let her. Ken Schulz

How big is big, really?

My mother taught me a long time ago it's always good to be the "bigger person". Sometimes I think that it is harder than it appears. How big is big? I guess that remains to be seen and what frame of mind you are in.

Today I started my second round of 29 Gifts. I challenged myself to reach out to a family member who had alienated herself from the rest of us many months back. I worked hard at that email last night. I knew contacting her would mean a lot on her end, but difficult on mine. My note was kind and supportive and when I finished I felt a great sense of relief.

Will she answer back? I'll keep you posted, but either way it was a very needed gesture. And I ended up feeling quite big actually.

-Stacy

Slow Learner

This past weekend was nice. My husband, Ray & I saw Stacy Funk at the bookstore on Saturday. We met a couple of new faces and had some good conversation. I greeted at Church on Sunday for one of my sisters who was visiting her son in Northern Indiana. Yesterday was a fun day. It was my sister, Patty's birthday. She wanted to go to the boat, so I took a Vacation Day, along with my 3 other sisters and we made a day of it. I think we might have to seek counseling for my oldest sister (HA HA). That's all I have for now. Have a good day!
Theresa Edwards: Tuesday, 03/22/10

Spring Cleaning or Nesting?

I've been very keen on cleaning out closets for the last few weeks. I'm not sure if it's spring cleaning fever or nesting. Either way, I'm getting some much-needed decluttering done. Yesterday I found a completely new fleece blanket still in the packaging in a chest I'm quite sure I haven't opened in more than two years. The blanket was a Christmas gift and I really do like it. Since I obviously haven't needed it in over two years, I don't think I need it at all. I decided to give the new blanket to the family that's recently resettled in Louisville after a stint in Texas. They will certainly enjoying snuggling under it.

Part of me felt a little bit guilty about regifting the blanket and then I remembered a Bulgarian saying - "a gift given again brings twice the happiness." I like that idea, so I'm embracing it with this gift.

- Leigh White

Oh, Baby! Part 2

As I've mentioned in previous postings, several of my friends are expecting babies now. I attended a baby shower for one today and decided to make a simple and practical gift to her. There are some things that you can have too many of, but diapers and baby wash are not on that list, so that's what I decided to get her. Nothing glamorous or fun about that gift, but I'm sure she'll put it to good use when her little guy comes along next month.

Baby showers certainly do make giving challenges easy.

- Leigh White

My Serve!

It was my wife's birthday yesterday and as is customary we went out to dinner. It was truly a fine eating establishment as there was no TV that you could see from where you sat. The evening was just right and made that much more enjoyable by the service of our waiter. When it came time to pay up and leave, I decided a 50% gratuity would be fun to give and easy to calculate. I hope that made our waiter's evening a little more special as his professionalism and easy manner made ours'. Ken Schulz

Veggies

From 2007 to 2009, I served on the Associate Board of Gilda's Club Louisville, an organization that provides social and emotional support to those living with cancer. Even though my tenure with the board has come to an end, I still enjoy volunteering for the organization from time to time. To help out this weekend, I signed up to bring a vegetable tray to the Clubhouse for the guests who attend their Life Celebration tomorrow -http://www.gildasclublouisville.org/Calendar/760/Life_Celebration:_Afternoon_of_Remembrance_(2-4pm). It was a small gesture, but my whole family got involved in helping to cut the peppers, broccoli, celery and cauliflower. We dropped off the tray this afternoon and I'm reminded about how easy and fulfilling it is to volunteer there.

- Leigh White 

Shhhh Don't Tell My Partners (JAH)

Friday, March 19 (Day 8): This will come as no suprise to those who know me, I am a very difficult person to work for. I have been practicing law for 20 years and have had 34 secretaries. That says a little something about what a "joy" it is to work for me. I contend it is b/c I am misunderstood. Others suggest that it is b/c I am impatient, stubborn, controlling, rigid, hard-headed, etc., etc. Well, I have two people working for me right now that somehow manage to cope with the difficulties of working with me. My paralegal has been doing it for almost 15 years. My secretary has been doing it for over 2 years. Both are pretty remarkable for making it so long. They are excellent at what they do and I am very fortunate to have them working with me. My gift today was to let them know in a very small way how much I appreciate there work and dedication. I let both of them leave about 3 hours early today to enjoy the first real sunny, semi-warm Friday that we have had this Spring. [I ended up having to type a 2 page document myself via the old hunt and peck method. It was quite humorous.] Susan and Belinda, thank you for all that you do AND all that you put up with. You guys are the best!!

- Jeff Hamilton

Birthdays

For my sixteenth birthday, my aunt threw the best party for me at her house with all of my closest friends. It will always be one of my most memorable birthdays. I don't remember having ever bought a birthday gift for her. March 28th is her 40th birthday. Her husband is planning a weekend's worth of events to celebrate the occasion. Unfortunately, we won't be able to attend any of the festivities in Knoxville, TN, where they live. Since I can't be there for this momentous birthday, I sent her a care package in the mail today. I hope she will enjoy this unexpected surprise when she receives it. 

- Leigh White

Time flies and a dime buys.

Once again, I failed to publish a blog last night. I could blame it on a myriad of things but the truth is I forgot while watching basketball. It is "Madness" after all. The weather finally turned sunny on Thursday and a couldn't resist the urge to take a short walk outside the office building around lunchtime. I had some loose change in my pocket and there were dozens of parking meters along the way. I have heard of other people doing this in the past but I never really thought about doing it until then. As I walked, I checked for expired time and fed the meter with the spare change. It wasn't an earth shattering experience but it did amuse me and I weighed a little less when I returened to the office. Ken Schulz

One good turn deserves another

I was walking toward my office building this morning when I came across this office supply delivery man trying to get his overloaded cart over the curb and onto the sidewalk leading into the building. Every time he tried to raise the cart up high enough to get over the curb, some item on top of his load threaten to fall off. I yelled to him to hold up and went over to help. I put my briefcase (or whatever those things are called that carry your laptop and a host of other homework items) down and lent a hand. No problem. With a little help he made it easy enough. The neat thing is when I went to pick up my briefcase (or whatever it's called) a lady had picked it up for me and handed to me. I have to admit that I had to check the blogs this evening to see if it wasn't one of us. Nice way to start the day don't you think? Ken Schulz

It has been just over a week since we officially embarked upon our 29 Days of Giving Challenge, which began last Thursday with an amazing kick-off reception, headlined by an appearance from Cami Walker, author of the bestseller “29 Gifts – How a Month of Giving can Change your Life” and the founder of the 29 Gifts concept.

In the days following the kick-off, I have been absolutely floored by the response we have received. In one week, we have had 24 different posts to this site, coming from many of our 29 Gifts Ambassadors. They are sharing their stories and experiences during this time, and giving the readers an inside look at the differences, both big and small, that they are making through their generosity.

So many times we can become jaded about the world around us, and fall into thinking that everyone is out for themselves, and that helping others is a lost aspect of our society, gone the way of black and white TVs and rotary telephones.

What our Ambassadors are doing has the potential not only to effect those they personally help, but a much larger group of people, many of whom they may never meet. They are truly embracing the spirit of giving in Kentucky, and are living up to the simple premise behind it all - It only takes one person to inspire hundreds.

Whether it is a simple hello to someone you pass at the office, or volunteering to help a neighbor with a task they are unable to complete, the spirit of giving is boundless. That is the beauty of this movement – each person has the ability to cater every giving opportunity into exactly what is needed. Some of the most inspiring stories involve the most simple of acts, but the joy they produce is second to none.

I know that I have been inspired by reading their stories and encouraged by the amount of time and energy they have volunteered this past week. They are touching the lives of so many by making an effort to give a little of themselves to those in need, the impact of which can be breathtaking.

One of the most inspiring aspects about this entire experience is not only that the amount of response by those willing to give, but the excitement and joy they derive from it. It is apparent that the title of Cami Walker’s powerful book is true – a month of giving CAN change your life. These amazing Ambassadors enjoy being a part of making a difference in someone’s life and never stop looking for ways to help others.

If you would like to help in the 29 Days of Giving Challenge, please contact Matthew Harris at matthew.harris@kyw.nmss.org, or call the National MS Society office at (502) 451-0014.

29 Days of Giving Event This Saturday!

Up Next for the Chapter - Join us for an exciting event at Carmichael’s Bookstore in Louisville, KY on March 20, 2010!

Date: Saturday, March 20, 2010
Time: 4:00pm – 6:00pm
Location: Carmichael’s Book Store
2720 Frankfort Ave Louisville, KY

It only takes one person to inspire hundreds – Cami has inspired us,so take her lead and revive the spirit of giving in Kentucky!

There will be a raffle held for all in attendance with gifts from Cami Walker’s signature items!
Hope you can make it, bring as many others as you like!

-Stacy Funk

Hi: My name is Theresa Edwards and I am the 29 gifts Ambassador for Your Community Bank.



My husband is one of many diagnosed with MS. My gifts for this week consisted of taking dinner to an elderly widow in our community and sending a Get Well card to a neighbor who is recuperating from surgery.



A co-worker and myself walk each day on our lunch and always pass a stranger or two on the way. We make it a point to smile and say hello.



I also called an elderly friend and in the midst of our conversation she stated that she was in the process of trying to do some Spring cleaning of which there were many things she has found that she can no longer do due to her age. We decided that she should make a list of what she needed done and I would help her.



I urge anyone reading this to make an effort to do one or more good will gestures each and every day. You never know, what you think could be the smallest gesture could make all the difference in another's day.

The Gift of Time (JAH)

Thursday, March 18 (Day 7): I have been sitting here struggling to think of a gift that I have given today. Nothing obvious jumps out at me. And then I realize that I have spent big chunks of my day giving my time to others. I spent about 1 1/2 hours in the middle of the work day driving my mother to pick up her van that had been worked on. I was glad to help her. I have also spent about 3 1/2 hours today on various aspects of my position as the Chairman of the Board of the local chapter of the National MS Society. I spend many hours each work on my various duties in such role, but I am so happy to be doing it. My dear friend Judy and my niece Margaret are suffering from MS and I want to do whatever I can to help find a cure for the damn disease as soon as possible! I think a cure will be found in my lifetime. I pray that it is found in Judy's lifetime.

- Jeff Hamilton

Supporting the Troops (JAH)

Wednesday, March 17 (Day 6): My brother-in-law is a a Lt. Colonel in the US Army. He has previously served an 18-month tour in Afghanistan and was just this week sent back over their on a short mission to observe some of the forward operating bases used by our troops. He posted on facebook on Monday that he arrived safely in Kabul and was preparing for his trips "outside the wire" to observe the FOBs. The recent news about the various bombings and increased Taliban activity over there has underscored for me, yet again, how dangerous it is for our troops over there and in Iraq. Regardless of what a person may feel about the wars and the politics surrounding them, I believe that we should support the men and women who are over there serving for our country. So my gift today was to email Jason and tell him how much we loved him, how proud we were of him and how we will keep him in our thoughts and prayers. I asked him to tell all of the troops over there the same thing. I then went and said a prayer for him and the other troops.

- Jeff Hamilton

Oh, Baby!

In the past couple of weeks, three of my friends have delivered their first babies. In the next two months, I have three friends who are expecting to deliver their babies. I'm also due to deliver during that time frame. During my first pregnancy, as well as during this one, I've been overwhelmed by the generosity of my friends and family members who've given us gifts to help my husband and I welcome our children. I want to share that same spirit of giving whenever I know someone who's pregnant.

Today, I sent a small gift to my friends Jane and Michael to celebrate the birth of their son. It's so much fun to send gifts to people in the mail. I get a lot of pleasure out of sending unexpected presents.

- Leigh White

It's The Small Stuff

Who knew giving so little could give back so much! I have spent the past week struggling to come up with generous ways to give to others. I was over-thinking the challenge to the point of frustration when my child showed me the way! I am a mother of three and I pride myself on spending quality time with my kids. We have breakfast and dinner together most every night. We do homework together and watch our favorite tv shows! We read before bedtime. But this week, I realized I never PLAY with my children. Not really! When my seven year old asked me to stop working (cleaning house as usual) and play, I immediately caught myself giving my typical response. "Mommy can't right now, I'm busy." And then it hit me. Give to her. Not just your time. But YOURSELF. Jump in and play. And ya know what? It was fun! Yes, it is a generous gift to play. It's generous to stop and make time to chat with the Walmart greeter who has a story to share. It's a gift to volunteer at school, even if it is just cutting out four leaf clovers made of construction paper! The little things really do mean alot. Thanks for reminding me.
Cheryl

Picture This

Having a good neighbor is truly a gift and we are fortunate to have many of them. Living around pleasant people makes one's home the place where you long to be, a little oasis of calm and serenity in an otherwise hectic world. One of our neighbors has been particularly great. She waters our plants and takes in our mail when we're out of town. Her older children are particularly gracious to play with our eager toddler. We share cups of sugar, leftover cake and turkey around the holidays.

When her oldest son, his wife and twin girls returned from Texas, they lived with her for a couple of months until they could find a place to rent nearby. They recently found a house, but they hardly have anything to furnish it with. I've put out feelers to many of my friends who have been generous to donate lamps, pillows, blankets, dishes and towels to help them. I wanted to contribute something to their new home too, so tonight I uncovered a really cool picture frame and a framed Derby Festival print in one of our closets to help decorate their new place. This unexpected gift caught them off guard as they don't seek or like to accept "hand outs," but they were quite grateful.

- Leigh White

That was me!

Yes it was! You, the one that followed me closely (very, very closely) up the winding ramps of one of the downtown parking garages, I was not happy with you at all this morning. It's a good thing you couldn't read my mind or you'd be looking up words in the dictionary right now. You, the one, who followed me at every turn I took. You, the one, that chased me onto one of the side levels where there was one open spot that was MINE!!!!! It was me that drove past it and let you take it as if you discovered it first. You're welcome. I was secretly glad that I got you off the road finally. Ken Schulz

It's just a matter of time.

First, I apologize. I had a relatively late evening yesterday. The difference between a relatively late evening and a late evening is a late evening is when I come home and do nothing else. A relatively late evening is when I come home and don't want to do anything else. Last night was the latter and that's why I didn't add a blog. Now that I made my excuses here's my gift. I am a firm believer that time is precious and to give of one's time is indeed very valuable. Having said that I volunteered to emcee the big fund raising benefit for Apple Patch which is a non-profit organization located in both Jefferson and Oldham Counties in Kentucky that provide a broad spectrum of support services for those who are mentally handicapped or as I like to say mentally handicappable. This is a marvelous organization, not only for their mission and vision, but for what they actually do each and every day. I have seen them at work and it's inspiring. I am very fortunate to be associated with them. Oddly enough, there fund raising effort happens on April 11 which is the day after our MS walk downtown. What a weekend! Ken Schulz

Supporting WalkMS (JAH)

Tuesday, March 16 (Day 5): My niece Margaret was a freshman at the University of Arkansas when her legs gave out on her one morning as she was walking across campus headed to class. She fell into a clump of bushes. Within a few days she was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. That was about 5 years ago. She has attacked her MS head on and is doing very well. She is even doing her Masters Thesis on certain effects of MS. She is an amazing young woman. She is taking part in an MS Walk in just over a month. My gift today is to make a donation to her Walk Team. Like all donations to the National MS Society, the money will be used to help create a world free of this horrible disease. Please join me in this effort by supporting someone you know who is participating in one of the many WalkMS or BikeMS events across the country.

- Jeff Hamilton

It's Still Good

Closets can always use a cleaning, and with spring around the corner I thought it would be the perfect time to pull some no-longer-used items out of our closets to pass them along to someone else. Without searching long or hard, I was able to fill up an entire shopping bag with clothes, shoes, toys, a shower curtain, pillow shams and other miscellaneous things. All of the items still have plenty of life left in them but I know we will never use them again.

This morning on my way in to work, I dropped off my shopping bag of items at Goodwill. This is my gift to them and to myself. I'm grateful that I have enough resources to replace these items before they were too worn out to pass on.

- Leigh White

Dear Friends Who just Happen to be Relatives (JAH)

Monday, March 15 (Day 4): My wife and I are blessed to have many wonderful relatives on both sides of the family. Two who hold a special place in our hearts are my Aunt Edie and Uncle Tom. Over the years we have grown very close to them. They have always been there for our family whenever and wherever needed. They have been such a Godsend since my father passed away a little more than a year ago and especially since my mother broke her leg this past September. We simply could not have managed through either event without their support and love. My son Matthew adores them. They come to many of his numerous sporting events and I think they have been to all of his school programs. In fact they are going to Grandparent's Day at Matthew's school on Tuesday morning. Matthew is sooo excited. Matthew still talks about the time that Uncle Tom took us fishing last summer, in part b/c Matthew was the only one to catch any fish that morning!! If it is possible for a 6 year old to gloat, Matthew has figured out how to do it. I decided as my gift for today that I would send them a card and tell them how much we love them, how important they are to us and how blessed we are to have them as such a special part of our lives. They are much more than relatives to us, they are dear friends.

- Jeff Hamilton

Financial Times

I graduated with my MBA from the University of Louisville in December. Throughout the course of the two-year program, I accumulated many things for my studies (mainly books). One of the things I was required to purchase for the program was a financial calculator. It wasn't an expensive item - maybe $30 - but I doubt that I will find a need for it frequently. My friend and coworker Glenda just started the program in January. Since I know how expensive the program is - tuition, books, etc. - I decided to pass my calculator and owner's manual along to her. Every little savings can help. I arrived at work before she did today and had fun sneaking into her office to leave her my gift and a note wishing her all the best with her studies.

- Leigh White

Part-time printer past-time

I work on a floor that has four printers and several copying machines. People print but not always pick-up. Generally that's your's truly but today it was everybody. Print job after print job piled up on these machines today with very few of these jobs being mine. However, I saw and seized the opportunity to play mailman on the 28th floor of the National City Tower not just once but two times today to the gratitude of some but the amusment of all. And, oh yes, I restocked the paper in all printers. When you're on a roll, don't stop. Ken Schulz

Little Gestures (JAH)

Sunday, March 14 (Day 3): Today was our first practice for my little league baseball team. I coach my son Matthew and 13 other 6/7 year olds in a machine pitch league. I have so much fun coaching these little guys. Today was a hastily arranged hitting practice at a local indoor batting cage so only 5 of my players are able to make it. One of them is a little guy who I used to coach in soccer when he and my son were 4 years old. He has a brother who is 2 years younger and who plays teeball at the same little league where we play. As I am talking to my players inside the cage about hitting off of a machine, I notice that the little brother is standing outside the batting cage with a sad look on his face. He wants to come inside so he can play with the big kids. He used to give me that same look 2 years ago when we were on the soccer field. In soccer I was always afraid that he would get run over, but this is a more controlled environment. I decide that today he gets to play with the big kids. His mom says it is ok so I put a batting helmet on his head, bring him into the cage and with the other kids explain how hitting off a machine is different from hitting off of a tee. He has a huge smile on his face and for the next 30 minutes plays alongside the big kids in hitting, running the bases and sliding. At the end of our practice he and his brother both give me high fives and I don't think much more about it. Later that evening his mother sends me an email thanking me for being the coach and especially for including the little guy in the practice. She said that it made his day and he had been talking about it all afternoon to his dad and to all of his friends. Now she has made my day. This is why I love coaching kids!!

- Jeff Hamilton

Keep The Faith (JAH)

Saturday, March 13 (Day 2): I love Saturdays and Sundays. I generally stay away from the office and I get to spend just about all day with my 6 year old son. He wears me out, but he is my world. Before he came along, I didn't realize you could love someone as much as I love that little guy. It amazes me that there was a time when I questioned whether I could ever love an adopted child as much as a biological child. Believe it or not, before Jean and I decided to try adoption, I really struggled with that question. Fortunately, a dear friend of ours (who is an adoptive parent herself) had the perfect response when I posed that question to her. She said: "The first time you see and hold your adopted baby in your hands, that baby will stop being your adopted baby and will just be your baby." Boy was she right! We were in the adoption process for a while and had some heartbreaking moments, but ultimately we were blessed to have Matthew come into our lives. I think all the time I spend with Matthew most Saturdays and Sundays in particular makes me realize how truly blessed we are to have Matthew. It also makes me realize that there are so many people out there who are trying to adopt and have not been so blessed. I decide that my gift today will be to send a card to a couple who has been in the adoption process for a while and who is struggling with the fact that they have not yet been chosen as adotive parents. I feel for them b/c I know how painful that process is to go through. We were in it for almost 2 years. In my card to them I tell them exactly what others told us as we were struggling through the process; "Keep the faith" and "Your baby is out there waiting for you, he or she just has to find you!" I hope they take my up on our offer to get together for dinner soon so that we can find out how they are doing and provide whatever support we can. I think they will. They have told us before that they love seeing Matthew b/c it reminds them that the pain and wait will be worth it in the end. They will be amazing parents when they are chosen. I hope it happens soon for them! I also decide to make a donation to an adoption financial assistance group. Not only is adoption a long process, it is also pretty expensive. Matthew has been such an incredible blessing. I want others to experience similar blessings!

- Jeff Hamilton

Mother is a Saint (JAH)

Friday, March 12: The first day of my Giving Challange. A friend had asked me earlier in the week who the recipient of my first gift would be. It is perhaps the easiest question I have ever been asked. There is only one person who I would ever consider. My Mother. She has spent her whole life giving to her family and others. She is the most unselfish, caring, compassionate, generous, wonderful person I have ever known. Although it is a bit cliche' to say that someone is a saint, in my Mother's case it is absolutely true. I don't know how I was so lucky to have her as a Mother, but I thank God that I was. She has always been the rock for our family. For the past 6 months or so we have been going out to dinner with my Mother on Friday evenings. She enjoys trying new places and spending time with us, especially my 6 year old son who cracks her up with the things he says and does (well, when he is not playing his Nintendo DS). Truth be told, I think we enjoy the time together as much if not more than she does. It is a great way to end each work week b/c she has such a beautiful perspective on life. On my way out to pick her up this evening, I stop and buy some flowers for her. I go over in my mind all of the wonderful things I am going to say to her when I give her the flowers. But when she answers the door and sees the flowers, I get a little choked up and all I can manage to do is hug her and say "Thank you". It wasn't what I planned, but it turned out to be just right. Later that evening I also give her a copy of Cami's book. We have a great dinner together and then go back to our house, build a fire and watch a movie together. On my way back from driving her home, it is late and I am tired but all I can think about is how lucky I am to have this saint as my Mother.

Meeting Cami Walker (JAH)

Thursday, March 11, 2010

This evening I had the pleasure of meeting and having dinner with Cami Walker (author of 29 Gifts). What an amazing woman! What an amazing story! The courage it took for her to open up her life for all to see is incredible, especially for such an unassuming person. She told our Chapter President that her trip to Louisville was the best trip she has ever had. I suspect it is because the people here are so down to earth and real. Just like she is. She clearly did not write her book to gain fame and fortune. In fact, the publicity seems to be a bit overwhelming to her. Rather, she did it to share with others how the simple prescription of "29 Gifts in 29 Days" changed her life and how it could change the lives of so many people all over the world. In an age when so many people are concerned only about themselves, Cami shared personal details of her life with strangers in an effort to help others and make this world a better place for all. How remarkable is that?!?! Meeting and getting to know her was so inspirational. I am so energized. I can't wait to start my 29 Day Giving Challenge tomorrow.

Pass the plants!

I've been thinking about the gift I would give all day today. It seems like our family continues to be the recipient of everyone's generosity lately. Our new neighbors moved in to a fully landscaped yard. To most people, this would be a dream come true. To our neighbors, it was a hurdle to planting their fruit trees and vegetable garden.

My husband loves gardening and takes a free plant whenever he comes across one. Today, our neighbors kindly let us dig up 35 boxwoods, four evergreens and some ornamental grass. They were glad to have their garden cleared and we were glad to have the the free plants. There were really too many for our yard, so we called a friend with a new house and an unlandscaped yard. She was thrilled to share in our neighbors' generosity. Cami mentions in her book that this prescription isn't all about giving. It also "involves thinking of things to be grateful for each day." I'm definitely grateful for our neighbors' kind act. I'm already brainstorming about what we can give them in return.

Lest the whole day be about what I received, I finally made my gift for the day. I made a donation to my friend and coworker's children who are raising funds for Kosair Children's Hospital. This is much better than having to purchase candy bars or wrapping paper. 

- Leigh White

Family first!

It's raining. It's Sunday. We're babysitting our 4 grandchildren. Kentucky is playing basketball for the SEC Tournament Championship. Selection Sunday is at 6p.m.! What is a guy suppose to do? I called my 91 year old Dad (he likes to remind me that he's 91 and a half years old) after lunch and we talked about the weather, sports and politics for an hour. He tells me that this was the longest conversation he has had with anybody this week. I promise to call him again on Wednesday. By the way...he seems to be a bit of a Villanova fan. Who knew! Ken Schulz

Win, win, win.

I'm a little late with my March 13 posting as it was a late evening last night. I was asked to be the after dinner speaker for a the March meeting of an alumni association of a high school that has been closed down for almost 30 years. About 100 graduates from the classes of 1930 through 1980 were there. What a great group! After my speech they presented me with a monetary token of their appreciation for my efforts. I accepted it momentarily and then returned it back to them to put towards their scholarship program. I enjoyed the camaraderie and the meal, they seemed to enjoy the speech and the scholarship fund will enjoy a little extra boost. Ken Schulz

Baby Shower Hostess

My very generous friend and coworker Beth gave me a wonderful gift today. She held a baby shower for me. Her thoughtfulness showed in every aspect of the party, from the beautifully designed invitations to the delicious spread of food. It was a great event and I received very nice presents from all the guests, but I was most excited for Beth to open the hostess gift that we brought her. Having recently moved into her first new home, we wanted to get something for it. We decided upon a very cool personalized address stamp. She was thrilled! It was such a small gift to show our appreciation for the amazing party she'd thrown for us, but I got more joy out of giving it than from any of the great gifts I'd received. 

- Leigh White

Inspiration

As I was sitting at 60W Bistro listening to Cami Walker speak of her endeavor with Multiple Sclerosis I found myself very inspired. The inspiration came not because she said or went through something I hadn't heard from many my patients in the past, but how genuine she was and how she developed a realization and acceptance of her situation. This is the part that is so very difficult for many people. My first gift was for a special friend of mine. This is a person that was one of my very best childhood friends. We ended up in different high schools and lost touch with each other over the years until one day she turned up in my clinic with symptoms of "possible multiple sclerosis". As fate would have it we did in fact diagnose her with MS. Over the past 2 years since her diagnosis she has had difficulty with denial as many individuals do. As I heard Cami talk I saw my friend. For my gift I bought a copy of Cami's book for my friend and hand delivered it to her last night. She was very appreciative and I felt great giving her a gift that could potentially change her life in such a positive way. She said she would keep me updated on what she thinks of the book. I will keep all of you posted on her thoughts and progress. Jenifer Patterson

It couldn't be easier.

It happened right in front of me and was simply much too easy or, maybe, easily much too simple to be considered a gift. I was walking back to the office from a quick lunch this afternoon with a thunderstorm breezing through downtown Louisville, KY. A little ways ahead of me and going in the same direction as I was a gentlemen caught in the wind and rain without an umbrella. He was carring a fairly good size load of folders in his arm. He was running across the intersection presumably to beat the light that was about to change but I think getting out of the rain might have been uppermost on his mind. As you might have already guessed, he made it as the light changed but some of his papers he was carrying didn't. The funny thing is that they blew back toward me standing on the same curb he just sprinted from a few moments before. It didn't take much of an effort to pick these papers up and return them to their owner. A receipt that landed in a puddle in the middle of the street is where we met up and made the exchange, shared a laugh and a handshake. Ken Schulz

Fish Fry Volunteer

Today I gave two hours of my time to help with the fish fry at St. James. I found it far more enjoyable and fulfilling than the eight hours of paid work that I completed today. The simple task of cleaning tables and trays and throwing away trash was quite rewarding. People were so pleasant and grateful that I was helping them.

The time really flew by because I was really busy the whole time. I truly enjoy volunteering when I'm needed. 

Stop by the fish fry next Friday (or any Friday during Lent) from 5 to 7:30 p.m. to enjoy a great meal and witness the work of a group of dedicated volunteers who make it all possible.

- Leigh White

Welcome to the 29 Day Giving Challenge Blog!

Welcome, one and all, to the official Kentucky 29 Day Giving Challenge Blog!

Here you can post, read and share blogs from and about our local 29 Gifts Ambassadors! We encourage everyone who is an Ambassador to post at least once a week and share your personal giving stories.

It only takes one person to inspire hundreds - so blaze the trail and bring the spirit of giving to Kentucky!

Thank you to everyone who attended our 29 Gifts Reception last night at 60 West Bistro & Martini Bar! We had a wonderful turnout and an inspiring evening with concept creator and author, Cami Walker.

Be sure to visit the 29gifts website for more information about the campaign and if you have questions, comments or ideas about how to make the 29 Day Giving Challenge more successful, please contact Matthew Harris at matthew.harris@kyw.nmss.org.

Good luck, thank you and happy giving!