Sunday

It's been a busy week with work and school. I am an expert folder at Old Navy. So far I haven't used my employee discount but that will probably change this week.

I have several tests this week in school so I'll spend loads of time studying. This is the last week of High School soccer for Chelsea so we should have a little more time together which will be nice.

This time of year is Stewardship season at our church, and many other churches as well. As I pray about how much I will be giving this year I decided to look at other options. I already give 10% of my retirement and disability to my church, and now that I have a job I will have some of that money to give as well. So I am giving via a website called www.kiva.org. It is a micro-loan site. It is designed to provide small loans to people in third world countries to start or expand a business. The smallest loan amount is $25. If you think about it, that isn't much money, but combined with loans from other people throughout the world it can add up quickly. The recipients pay back the loan, usually in 12 months. Then you get your $25 back so you can help someone else. You can loan to just one person, or to as many as you want at a minimum of $25 each. So I've decided that I will take one day's pay each month to help out people via Kiva, and then I will take one day's pay and help out a local organization. October will be for the Christmas Box house. My friend, Kelly, shared this quote in church this morning: Don't count your blessings, share them. So that's what I am going to do.

Yes, I am working at a low paying job, but it's to send my kid to Disneyland, not to pay the rent or put food on the table. My family is truly blessed with so many good things and great people. If I spend a few hours folding t-shirts or jeans in order to share my blessings with others, then I will do it with a joyful heart! I feel great already! And isn't that the funny thing about giving? Who actually feels better about it, the person who receives, or is it really the person who gives? Try it and see for yourself!