This week’s Impact Effort was, thus far, the most difficult, yet rewarding we’ve taken. To be honest, I never thought about how many -itises, -pathys, -emias, -tomas, -epsys, or -oses there are that so virulently attack children. Our hearts broke to read about the trials these children and their families go through; at the same time we felt great admiration toward each for their strength and perseverance.
It wasn’t easy to choose which children to send cards and small gifts to. None are more “deserving” than another. Nils and I ended up choosing based on interests we could relate to or whether they were “featured” children, i.e., there was a specific call for cards. We include a few of those we corresponded with:
We chose Jonathan A. through Hugs and Hope because of his interest in ships, boats and pirates — all things that Nils was fond of as a boy. Along with a beautiful card with a tall ship made by a friend, we sent Jonathan a book with pop-out pieces to make a pirate ship. Jonathan was diagnosed with epilepsy at the age of 2. His cognitive development has suffered due to “constant seizures.” When I emailed his parents to confirm their mailing address, they responded, “He will be so suprised and excited! He really loves to receive any kind of mail!.” (more…)
This is an unplanned blog post, but I just had to add this immediately — in part to let off some steam, in part to give a more “balanced” view on LED lighting.
It’s pretty hard not to be touched by the smile of a child. This week, we’re going to try to bring smiles to several children.
Well, 
This week is all about “Effortless Impact.” We’ve chosen this for a very good reason: our sanity. The past couple of weeks (let’s not even mention the ones coming up!) have been “a bit” chaotic in our household. I think you know what I’m talking about — I have a deadline looming in March, and Nils is now working in Geneva 10-12 hours a day, five days a week. Last week, decisions and choices related 52 Weeks (not to mention those regarding our lives) were made virtually via email and Skype. Yes, we are feeling “performance anxiety” — as relates to 52 Weeks Impact Efforts, of course. 
Got a favorite charity? Here’s a chance to help them get some extra funding.
I can’t remember the last time I made a financial investment that didn’t make me apprehensive. I know I’ve never before made one that made me cry out with joy, “Oh, this is so cool!”
When we talk about helping those in need and making an impact, we usually think of either direct monetary donations, in-kind donations (e.g., clothing, food, or supplies), or volunteering time or skills.
I tend to like moving in leaps and bounds (or as my sister’s old colleague, whose first language was not English, more appropriately termed it, “leaps and bounces”); Nils sometimes has to (figuratively) grab me by the scruff of the neck and remind me that small, consistent steps are a good thing, and often more effective.
