30 Days of Gratefulness, Week 4 Follow Up

And, here it is, the final week.  If you follow me on Facebook, then you know that I was often 'catching up' with posts (posting several thankfulness posts in one day), but I did get through an entire month.  And, as silly as it may sound, I am proud of myself for that.

Anyway, without further adieu, here are my posts...

Day 24: An Act of Kindness
Over the past year, we have given away a few of Lily's old trach supplies to friends. But, we were never able to find enough people who needed just what we had. So, today, Doug and I donated the last of Lily's trach supplies to Matthew 25 Ministries. From there, they will go to trach patients all over the world. I don't know why we waited so long to do this. It makes me happy, knowing that these supplies will finally be put to good use. And, I'm thankful for the reminder of just how blessed we are.

The sign for Matthew 25 Ministries.  It states 'Life isn't about
getting and having.  It's about giving and being.'

Day 25: Inspiration
At the beginning of the week, Reverend Sharon Dittmar and I shot a few short videos for the upcoming UU holiday of Chalica. By the end of the night, we had amassed quite a few outtakes. And, so, I compiled those outtakes into a blooper reel (see below). I love doing things such as this. When I compile a video, create a lesson or write anything, it is like I am a seamstress - cutting and sewing, turning an old frock into a new, beautiful dress. And, if I have done my job correctly, then when you engage with the final product, I instantly transform into Mickey Mouse from Fantasia, commanding your thoughts and emotions like Mickey commands the dishes. I can't say, exactly, where my inspiration comes from (since inspiration is one part idea, one part creativity and one part passion), but I am thankful for the role it plays in my life, allowing me to be creative and giving me a voice.

Day 26: A Sound
I choose silence, which gives me the opportunity to be alone with my thoughts. As an introvert, I find this time invaluable. Interesting note, listening to NPR gives me the same opportunity for introspection.

My T.V., turned off.

Day 27: Food
You don't realize what a gift it is to eat until you see how others struggle (or until you struggle yourself). Lily's eating ability is improving every day and I am very grateful for that.

My daughter, Lily, eating cereal.

Day 28: Comfort
Music has a way of bandaging our wounds and amplifying our joys. Lately, I've been listening to the wonderful music of Peter Mayer (the closest thing UU's get to praise music). It just seems to speak to me, and I am grateful for the comfort it supplies.

Day 29: Love
Letting your husband nap while you take care of business, knowing that the action will be reciprocated because your husband loves you too, but not keeping track. Love is taking care of each other even when it is hard to do so.

My husband, Doug, napping on Thanksgiving.

Day 30: Something Seasonal 
Have I ever mentioned how much I love the holidays? A season of love, hope, thankfulness and giving. I am so thankful for this cold time of year that brings such warmth to my heart.

Christmas lights on a neighbors house.

Thank you for sticking with me during this endeavor.  I truly believe, even in the worse of times, there is always something to be thankful for.  You just have to look for it.

Be sure to check back here tomorrow for the first day of Chalica!

- Ms. Meredith

Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Resources on Racism and Ferguson

In light of the grand jury's decision in Ferguson yesterday, liberal educators from around the nation began sharing resources on racism and Ferguson.  Then, a very wonderful colleague of mine, Natalie Spriggs-Trobridge of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Indianapolis, compiled all those resources into one comprehensive list, which I am sharing with you today.

Thank you Natalie, and all the wonderful religious educators, who made this list possible.

Parenting Resources

The Murder of Sean Bell: From Pain to Poetry

This piece explores fears of black middle school students. Really powerful, eye-­opening read for teens & parents, and this definitely promotes, invokes importance of empathy.

Syllabus: Talking to Kids about Racism

This resource provides information on talking with children & teens about racism, suggesting a move beyond a focus on individual racial prejudice to systemic bias.

A Little White Girl's First Experience of Racism

An essay which uses narrative to explore themes of racism and inequality.

Ferguson ­specific parenting, teaching resources

5 Ways to Teach about Mike Brown & Ferguson (Huffington Post)

PBS: Talking to Kids About Ferguson

Educators use Twitter to Teach About Ferguson

Know Your Rights: Demonstrations and Protests

General Education on Systemic Discrimination

When You're the Only White Person in the Room ­ Blake, John

Here's a REALLY good one, recently released. Strong, yet opens dialogue instead of closing it.

What Side of History Are You On? ­ Rimington, Jess

This recent piece is worth the read and has a lot in it to at least consider.

Black Feminisism and Intersectionality ­ Smith, Sharon

A great, GREAT essay that is readable, and packed with facts.

The Case For Reparations ­ Coates, Ta­Nehisi

From a senior writer at The Atlantic, this is a long essay and was shared hundreds of thousands of times. It may be the best essay on race thus far in the 21st century. It is worth every minute.

The Intercultural Development Inventory ­ Hammer, Mitchell R

An academic description of intercultural competency, which includes ideas about where you might be and where our culture is.

Unpacking the Invisible Knapsack ­ McIntosh, Peggy

A seminal essay in the study of race and whiteness. It's pretty readable and very thought provoking.

The Erasing of Women & Their Athletic Achievements ­ Alexander, Valerie

While it's "about" the Women's & Men's World Cups, this essay truly calls us to examine our language and broaden our perspectives.

Books

The Selma Awakening: How the Civil Rights Movement Tested and Changed Unitarian Universalism ­ Morrison­Reed, Mark D

From a UU minister and historian, a new book on the story of UU involvement in the Civil Rights movement and our more recent history.

Faith Without Certainty: Liberal Theology in the 21st Century ­ Rasor, Paul

By a UU theologian, includes an analysis of race and justice.

Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life ­ Rosenberg, Marshall B.:

A Different Mirror: A History of Multicultural America ­ Takaki, Ronald

An excellent history of the stories of different immigrants to this country

Learning to Be White: Money, Race and God in America ­ Thandeka

From a UU theologian, a theological and social analysis of how race has developed and is embedded in economics and religion.

The Arc of the Universe is Long: Unitarian Universalists, Anti­Racism and the Journey from Calgary ­ Morris, Leslie Takahashi, Chip Roush and Leon Spencer

A lengthy look at the history of racism and justice in our Unitarian Universalist Association.

Peace to you,

- Ms. Meredith

30 Days of Gratefulness, Week 3 Follow Up

It's week 3 of my 30 Days of Gratefulness Photo Challenge, and here we go...

Day 16: Something New
We've had Lily's chair for just over a year now, so it's not brand new. But, it has given Lily the gift of independent mobility. She now has the ability to explore her world, to play independently, to make mischief. For that, I am grateful.

Lily, in her wheelchair, playing at an accessible park.

Day 17: A Time of Day
Any time I am with Doug, it is a good time of day. I am thankful for our time together, even if we don't get much of it these days.

Selfies with my husband.

Day 18: A Physical Trait
Day 18: A physical trait. My face. It is constantly betraying my emotions. And, I'm thankful that it keeps me honest. I say, "I'm fine. " My face says, "No you're not."

Professional Selfie

Day 19: A Daily Activity
Showering. I love to take showers. The feel of the water washing over me is both rejuvenating and restorative. It's as if I am able to wash all the worries in the world away whenever I am in the shower. I also seem to get the best ideas while I am in the shower! On a more solemn note, not all people in this world have access to clean water. I am thankful for this privileged.

Our Shower

Day 20: A Distraction
This is my niece, Savannah. Savannah's a wonderful distraction in my life and I am so thankful to have her as my niece. She has a very big heart, is a wonderful cousin to Lily, and is extremely fun to hang out with.

My Niece, Savannah...making a duck-face.

Day 21: Shelter
Here it is, my office, my sanctuary, my fortress of solitude, my messy bedroom. It provides me shelter both physically and psychologically. I am very thankful for it.

My messy bedroom.

Day 22: A Piece of Technology
Of course, I choose my phone and its many applications. It's my personal assistant, my game board, my text book, my atlas, and my meeting house. To be honest, I'm probably too attached to it. But, I am thankful for it nonetheless.

Homepage Screenshot

Day 23: Memories
The peculiar thing about memories is that they can be triggered by just about anything. I walk into Cincinnati Children's, smell the air, eat from their salad bar, and I am instantly transported back in time. Cincinnati Children's is a safe place for me. If ever I am having a rough day, the smell of Cincinnati children's can instantly calm me. But not all my memories are good. The most painful, being the ones where, intentionally or unintentional, I have hurt someone, or let them down. However, for worse or for better, memories make us who we are. And, for that I am grateful.

A salad from Cincinnati Children's Hospital and Medical Center.

FYI, my last 30 Days of Gratefulness post will be posted Sunday, November 30.  This is because Monday, December 1, is the first day of Chalica.  Be sure to check back throughout Chalica (December 1 - 7), as I will be posting special Chalica messages on this blog every day of the week.

Happy Thanksgiving!

- Ms. Meredith

Pinterest Pick Thursdays

Thanksgiving is just a week away!  Eek!  Just so you are aware, there will be no Pinterest Pick Thursday post on Thanksgiving.  That means, the next Pinterest Pick Thursday post you will see, will be posted on December 4.

And, speaking of December, did you know that Chalica starts Monday, December 1?  That's only 11 days away!  And, with no more Pinterest Pick Thursday's from now until then, I hope you will forgive me if I drop all of this Thanksgiving and Gratitude talk for a moment, and jump straight to Chalica...

 Pinterest Pick of the Week
Chalica Preparations

Faith Formation Component
All

Time for Activity
1 Hour

Recommended Age
Preschool and Up

Materials
My Chalica Book: A Beginner's Guide
 Chalica: A UU Winter Holiday
Candles, or a bit of spending money
Poster Board and Marker, or a piece of paper and a pen

Activity
Chalica is a new holiday, dreamed up by Daylene Marshall in 2005.  It is an '"invitation to spend a day with each of the principles."  Chalica starts on the first Monday in December and lasts for seven days.  The whole point is to spend one day reflecting, honoring, and living out one of our seven principles, starting with our first principle on Monday.  In general, Chalica can be celebrated in many different ways, but I always recommend that people who do celebrate Chalica put aside time at the end of the night to light a chalice and reflect on the day.

Rev. Lisa Schwartz celebrates Chalica at the UU Fellowship in Topeka.  Taken from Phil on the Prairie.

Briefly, I will share with you that growing up, December was the time we'd learn about other religions and their holidays.  We'd set up the manger right next to the menorah (though we don't have any Jewish heritage), and we'd usually attend the Solstice celebration at Church.  While, I certainly enjoyed learning about the different religions and their holidays, I never really felt like I 'owned' any of the holidays.  I longed for tradition and ritual that I could own.  I still do, in fact.  That is why Chalica excites me so.  And, I hope the prospects excite you to... finally, a UU winter holiday.  Our own holiday, around which we can establish traditions and rituals.

Because Chalica starts just 4 short days after Thanksgiving this year, I invite you to prepare for Chalica now, this weekend.  So, if you are excited about this holiday as I am, here is what to do:

• Read up on Chalica.  Learn more by...
• visiting the Chalica Blog
• reviewing this article from Donald E. Skinner at the UUWorld.
• exploring the Chalica Facebook Page
• studying this Huff Post Blog by Amanda Gregory (Look, I'm mentioned at the end!).
• or, reading Evan Autin's article on Parenting Beyond Belief.

Chalica commitments poster from Parenting Beyond Belief

• Download the booklet I created "My Chalica Book: A Beginner's guide (Third Edition)" and Reverend Sharon Dittmar's "Chalica: A UU Winter Holiday."  Or, pick up hard copies at First Church of Cincinnati this Sunday.  
• My booklet provides an introduction to Chalica, a brief history of the holiday, suggestions on how to honor each principle each day (new this year, movie suggestions), several resources, and a reference page.  
• Reverend Sharon Dittmar, on the other hand, offers up a very convenient, one page list of suggestions on how you can celebrate each day of Chalica at home or around Cincinnati (see below).

Chalica: A UU Winter Holiday.

• Gather your family and teach them what you have learned about Chalica.  Then, use the resources listed in #2 to create a game plan...
• Discuss
• Why are we celebrating Chalica?  
• How do we, in this family, want to celebrate Chalica? What kind of traditions and rituals do we want to attach to this holiday?
• What will everyone commit to do to honor each principle?
• Decide: 
• How many chalices will we use (1 v. 7)?  
• Will you buy them or make them?  
• Where will you put them?
• Act: 
• Write down everyone's commitments on a poster board like the one above (don't have a poster board, use a piece of paper instead).  Then, post it in a prominent location within your home.
• Go purchase any materials you will need - candles for your chalices, paper to write letters, etc.

You may be asking yourself why do all this prep now?  After all, there is still so much to be prepped for Thanksgiving.  Honestly, you don't have to prep now, but I would encourage you to prepare before December 1.  It is important to be intentional about Chalica - especially if it is your first time celebrating it or if you have children you need to 'convince' to participate.  After all, this whole holiday is centered around being intentional about our principles.  It can be so easy to let a day pass, and not think or reflect on our principles at all.  You can prevent that from happening by preparing now.

And, when Chalica begins, Monday, December 1, I hope you will visit this page every day for a special Chalica message.

Original Sources
All original sources cited above.

Wishing you a very wonderful Thanksgiving!

- Ms. Meredith

30 Days of Gratefulness, Week 2 Follow Up

Can you believe we're already half-way through November?  I certainly can't!  Pictures from this past week are below...

Day 9: An Ability
I don't like to brag or to boast. It seems rude and self centered. But, if I must, I would say the ability I prize the most is my ability to see through the cracks. In doing so, I am afforded the opportunity to be creative and compassionate. I can see the solutions no one sees, the good in someone who has lost faith in themselves, and the vulnerabilities in those who try to front. This is not to say that I know all, or that I am without my prejudices and frustrations. Only, I am thankful for the opportunity to be creative because it brings me joy. And, I am thankful for the opportunity to temper my judgements with compassion because then I am able to bring joy to others. Seeing through the cracks, I am reminded, we are all human.

A door cracked open.

Day 10: A Piece of Knowledge
I am thankful to know struggle. From the learning disabilities I had in my youth, to the mental health issues I had in young adulthood, to all the medical and physical issues we have had to deal with when it comes to Lily - I am so thankful. My struggles have taught me the value of perseverance, shown me the strength of my own character, and demonstrated the importance of kindness. My struggles, while minuscule compared to what others have endured, have taught me many life lessons I will not soon forget.

My daughter, Lilith, when she was a preemie in the NICU.

Day 11: Something Natural
I love the changing of the seasons - the way summer smashes into fall, fall bows down to winter, winter begrudgingly gives way to spring, and spring jumps into summer - I love it all (erm, except maybe, for February). The changing of the seasons is a reminder that nothing is permanent. As the bible verse goes, "for everything there is a season." The same thing goes for our own lives. With every season, we are given the opportunity for reflection and rebirth. And, for that, I am grateful.

This picture was taken at the Civic Garden center of Cincinnati.
It shows a red tree, a green tree and a yellow tree.

Day 12: Inspirational Words
There have been so many words that have inspired and sustained me over the years. Far too many to put here. So, instead, I have chosen 5 quotes, 5 pictures, to share with you. Combined, these 5 quotes sum up my philosophy on life... for the most part.

"I stopped looking for the light.
Decided to become it instead."

"Grass is greener where you water it."

"Happiness is like a butterfly; the more you
hase it, the more it will elude you, but if you
turn your attention to other things, it will come
and sit softly on your shoulder..." (Thoreau)

"Mother Teresa didn't walk
around complaining about
her thighs - she had shit to do."

"Be gentle with yourself.  You are a child
of the universe.  No less than the trees and
the stars.  In the noisy confusion of life
keep peace in your soul. - Max Ehrmann."

Day 13: Inspirational Person
Just like with the words, many people have inspired and sustained me over the years. From my 5th grade teacher, Mr. Keller, to modern heroes of our time, such as the Dalai Lama. Today, however, I'd like to uplift two people who continue to inspire me - my parents, Russ and Rae Jane. I cannot express how thankful I am for all that they have done, and continue to do, for me. Surely, there are no better parents on the face of this Earth. When I grow up, I hope I am at least half as compassionate and giving as my father, and half as strong and resilient as my mother. I am so blessed and so grateful.

My parents, Russ and Rae Jane, at my father's 60th birthday party.  

Day 14: A Difficulty / Challenge
I bit my nails off today. I should have realized, that's a sign my anxiety is high. I've dealt with anxiety most of my adult life. At times it has paralyzed me, confused me, overwhelmed me, and upset me. Lately, it just seems to prevent me from being as kind and compassionate as I know I can be (i.e. I've been a bit irritable). I am thankful for this challenge only in that my anxiety tells me when it is time to step back and reevaluate. Often it is a reminder that something is out of balance in my life and I need to restructure my priorities. Upon reflecting today, it is clear I am need of more family time, as well as self-care.

My nails.

Day 15: Something Old
This sanctuary, at the First Unitarian Church of Cincinnati, is 125 years old. When it was constructed, there were no computers, or cars, and Avondale (where this is located) was a wealth suburb of Cincinnati. The congregants (including future president Taft) traveled by horse or by foot to its door. Today, this sanctuary is the spiritual home for nearly 300 Unitarian Universalists. We drive in from all around the city. We tutor in Avondale schools, donate to the local food pantry, provide temporary housing to homeless families, fight for equal rights, and so much more. I am thankful for this community, which has seen me through many hard times, and which continues to fight for justice in Cincinnati and beyond.

The sanctuary at the First Unitarian Church of Cincinnati.

Feeling thankful!

- Ms. Meredith

Pinterest Pick Thursdays

In just two short weeks, Thanksgiving will be here.  The thanksgiving story our children get in school is whitewashed at best, offensive at worse.  Little regard is given to how Native Americans were treated during this time in our history.  If the Native American narrative is recognized, they are viewed as caricatures (with our preschool children creating paper bag headdresses).

Stock Photo:  Child wears paper headdress.

Full disclosure - I am a white, middle class young adult who grew up in a white, affluent neighborhood.  As a child, my favorite Disney Princess was Pocahontas.  I owned and wore a Pocahontas dress.  The only characteristic that separated me from my peers was my religion (born and bred UU).  However, I never felt particularly persecuted or marginalized for it.  And, I still ask myself, 'what does it mean to be culturally sensitive?'

In short, I never quite felt like I had the tools necessary to tackle the Thanksgiving story in a culturally inclusive way.  So, I didn't think about it.  Growing up UU, the Thanksgiving narrative I told myself instead was one of 'religious freedom.'  After all, the pilgrims came to the America's to practice their chosen religion.  Their survival, exemplified in the Thanksgiving story, was critical to the creation of this nation, which gives me the freedom to worship however I choose.

However, as I have gotten older, I've learned that narrative isn't quite true either.  And, what of the food?  Is it possible to eat ethically on a holiday that is all about food?  Well, unfortunately, I don't have all the answers for you (what good UU does), but I can at least give you the resources to begin your own investigation.

Pinterest Pick of the Week

Revisiting the Story of Thanksgiving

Faith Formation Component

Content

Time for Activity

> 0.5 hours

Recommended Age

All Ages

Materials

Library Card, 

Activities

There are many narratives we tell ourselves and our children about the thanksgiving holiday - none of which are particularly true or socially responsible.  Thankfully, a few people much smarter than I have taken their time to gather accurate information, and put together helpful guides, that we can use when honoring this holiday with our children.  My only suggestion, don't let the sheer volume of information from this post overwhelm you.  Choose one area to explore with your children this thanksgiving and run with it.

Talking about Native Americans

Off Beat Families put together an age appropriate guide on how to talk to children about Native Americans during Thanksgiving.  In one section, the article's author (listed only as Rodrigues), cautions against painting Native Americans with a broad brush.  Rodrigues notes, "keep the perspective balanced: some settlers had compassion and wanted to help Native people, and not all native people were like Squanto or Pocahontas, either.  In fact, one important ideas is that just like your child has different ideas and likes than his friends, people at that point in history had different ideas from their friends."

The Indian Country Today Media Network has also compiled a short list of picture and chapter books written by Native Americans, about Native Americans.  As Debbie Reese, the author of this article states, "These books give a far more nuanced, and accurate, account of Indigenous Peoples.  They will set children and adults alike straight on what really happened around the time of the so-called First Thanksgiving, and what Native life is like today."

"The People Shall Continue" written by Simon Ortiz

On the flip side, in her blog American Indians in Children's Literature Debbie Reese has re-posted a very comprehensive list of Thanksgiving books NOT to use.  

Exploring Religious Freedom and Early Unitarian Universalism

On the Smithsonian's website, Kenneth C. Davis debunks the myth that the early Pilgrims and Puritans were all about religious freedom.  In the article Davis even notes several examples of early religious laws in Independent America.  Delaware, for example, "required an oath affirming belief in the Trinity."

You may even be surprised to learn that the first Universalist service in america didn't even occur until September 30, 1770.  That preacher was John Murray (bio can be found at Dictionary of Unitarian and Universalist Biography).  A children's story, and activity ideas, about John Murray can be found in Session 12 of the Tapestry of Faith curriculum Creating Home.  One of the best parts about this resource is that several of the activities are centered on welcoming - another Thanksgiving theme.

John Murray

Ethical Eating

For a general overview on how to eat ethically on Thanksgiving, Take Part offers up trivia (yes, trivia).  In the introduction to their slide show, they note "These fun facts about Thanksgiving might help you find small ways to celebrate a little more ethically... there are lots of easy choices that will have you feeling good before you even sit down at the table."

By way of specifics, Running on Real Food, offers up 50 vegan recipes for Thanksgiving, and this infographic, created Good Magazine, provides information and suggestions on how to make your meal more local, sustainable and eco-friendly.

Stock Photo: Cornucopia overflowing with fruits and vegetables.

Other Thanksgiving Narratives

In the Off Beat Families article referenced above, Rodrigues offers another narrative about Thanksgiving.  She says, "In our home, like so many other American homes, Thanksgiving is when we take time to enumerate the brightest moments of that year.  Often, those illuminated moments are intertwined with difficult, dark times.  They are inseparable: we are thankful for our home knowing that others suffer without one.  We are thankful for our youngest son in light of the days he spent recovering from heart surgery.  We are thankful for our marriage in light of the fact that we are two people toiling through a relationship's struggles.  We celebrate thanksgiving in acknowledgement of its symbols of hope, thankfulness, and togetherness in light of the difficult history from which it springs."  This is how I like to look at Thanksgiving now.  And, if this is the narrative you want to instill on your children, check out this post on gratitude from two weeks ago for activity suggestions on how to do just that.

Original Sources:

All original sources cited above.

With gratitude,

- Ms. Meredith

30 Days of Gratefulness, Week 1 Follow Up

It's been just over a week since November began.  I've been snapping (or stealing) pictures and posting them to my Facebook as part of the 30 days of gratefulness photo challenge.  As I am not friends with all of you, I thought I would re-posts all of my pictures on this blog, once a week.  So, here is my week 1 follow-up...

Day 1: Someone I See Everyday
I chose my husband, Doug for this day. For his sense of humor, giving heart, resilience and strength, I am very grateful. He is my best friend, my partner and my rock. I am so thankful.

My husband, Doug, smiling his goofy smile.

Day 2: A Gift
The gift I am most grateful for is family. Some people aren't lucky enough to have family that live so close. Even though we may not always like each other, or agree on everything, we are always there for each other in times of need.

My family at Soho's celebrating the life of my grandfather,
who passed away a year ago this month.

Day 3: A Friend
I chose this women right here - Emily. Being friends since 7th grade (that's 15 years ago) we've been through a lot together, often experiencing the same things at the same time (engagement, marriage, our first child). When Lily was born early, she was there for me - checking in, offering support, and providing comfort - while many of my other friends cut off communications.  And, while life can get in the way, and we may not talk or see each other as often as we would like, I am so thankful to call this woman my best friend and to have her in my life.

My best friend, Emily, snuggling with her two boys.
Mini-Emily due to arrive in early Spring!

Day 4: Something Beautiful
Not many people would call a scar beautiful, but there is no other way to describe this scar. This scar on my daughter's neck which tells people, "Look, I am a survivor. I am a miracle." One year ago, on this day, Lily went in for the biggest surgery of her life. A surgery that gave her the power to breathe, to swim, to talk. It was then that this scar was added to her appearance. On second thought, beautiful is an understatement.

The scare on my daughter's neck, where her trach used to be.

Day 5: A Luxury
This is me reading a book. This is me practicing self-care. As mothers around the world will tell you, self-care is the ultimate luxury. Unfortunately, I don't get to practice self-care as much as I should. But, I am thankful that on this night, I could.

Me, reading a book.

Day 6: A Need
We all need sleep. And, if you know me at all you know I am a very big fan of sleep (always the first to go to bed at sleep overs, would sleep in until noon over the summer, and can nap practically anywhere). I am very, very, very thankful for the sleep that I need and get (I am sure my husband is as well, as I can be quite cranky when I don't get enough sleep).

Me, trying to sleep.

Day 7: Something Big
Cincinnati children's is big in both footprint and in programs offered. I am thankful, not only for all that they have done for my family, but for all that they continue to do for children in this area and abroad. How lucky we are to have such a resource in our own backyard!

Cincinnati Children's Logo

Day 8: Something Small
Our dog, Murphy. Our first baby. He is always there for a snuggle and always seems to know what is on our minds (not to mention how patient he is with Lily). I'm so thankful for all the joy and love he has brought into our lives.

My cockapoo, Murphy.

Have you been participating in the 30 days of gratefulness challenge?  If so, send me a picture at dre@firstuu.com, and I may feature your picture in an upcoming post.

Wishing you a grateful heart!

- Ms. Meredith

Pinterest Pick Thursday

This past Sunday, we introduced this year's Guest at Your Table campaign.  There was a story for all ages, children made boxes out of recycled materials, and everyone was encouraged to donate their loose change (or cut a check) to help advance human rights worldwide.

Guest at Your Table logo

But, now I ask you, can you raise more money for Guest at Your Table?  I bet you, you could.  Here, I'll even give you a few suggestions on how to do just that...

Pinterest Pick of the Week

Guest at Your Table Dinner

Faith Formation Component

 Context / Calling

Time for Activity

1 - 2 hours Prep

2 - 3 hours for Activity

Recommended Age 

Kindergarten and Up

Materials

Dependent on Activity

Activities

If you visit the Guest at Your Table portion of the Unitarian Universalist Service Committee website you'll see that this year, they are suggesting people host a dinner party in order to raise additional money for Guest at Your Table.  Their promo sure does make the suggestion seem appetizing (pun intended).

And, UUSC is great at offering tips and resources for your dinner party - they provide you with suggestions on how to plan your dinner party, a dinner party check list, recipes, and educational information for your guests (they even have placements!).  Really, the UUSC has done a lot of great work, but one thing they didn't provide - suggestions on how to make your dinner party family friendly.

So, here are three suggestions on how to do just that.  Three 'dinner' party ideas to make your Guest at Your Table dinner one that appeals to your family and family friends.

World Tour

Invite your family friends to join you in a world tour.  Give each family a country to investigate.  For your dinner party, ask each family to bring a dish from their country, dressed in their countries traditional garb (or as close as possible) and armed with a few facts about their country.  Then, spend the night enjoying diverse cuisine, and sharing about each other's countries.  Add an empty seat at your table for the 'guests' that could not join you - those working to promote human rights worldwide.  Place your Guest at Your Table box at the empty place setting and invite your real guests to 'feed' your invisible guests with their donations.

Stock photo: old world map.

Superheros: Dinner and a Movie

We all have the ability to be superheros because we all have the ability to help someone else - that is the central concept of this dinner idea.  Invite your family friends over for a superhero themed night.  Serve superhero food, such as Super Subs and Wonder Dogs.  Then, watch your favorite superhero movie.  Make superhero masks and don bed sheet capes for additional fun.  Finally, invite your guests to be superheros by donating to Guest at Your Table.

Stock Photo: Man pulls off his business suit to reveal his super-suit underneath.

Hot Chocolate Bar

If you don't have the time or energy to plan an entire dinner, then why don't you try a hot chocolate bar with some fair trade chocolate!  Provide graham crackers, marshmallows, peppermint sticks, whipped cream, vanilla / caramel / peanut butter flavoring - your imaginations the limit.  You could even provide additional 'adult' flavoring if you catch my drift (I think Kahlua would be particularly nice).  Educate your guests on the benefits of fair trade products and request people donate per cup.

Stock Photo:  Hands hold a cup of hot chocolate.

So, now you have a few ideas, what do you do next?

• Call a family meeting and decide which idea your family is going to run with.
• Set a date for your 'dinner' party.  It should be far enough in advance that your guests have time to prepare, but before November 23 (that's when we will collect all donations at church).
• Create invitations and pass them out to family friends.  You may want to focus on inviting friends from outside of church, since many church families are already collecting donations for Guest at Your Table.
• In the days leading up to your 'dinner' party, involve the entire family in prepare decorations.
• The day of the party, involve the entire family in preparing the food.
• Welcome your guests and enjoy your party!
• Bring all your donations to church November 23.

Original Sources

Inspiration for the family friendly 'dinner' parties come from Balancing Beauty and Bedlam, Disney Discussion Boards, and Kevin & Amanda.  All other sources sited above.

Happy fundraising!

- Ms. Meredith