Sunday, December 23, 2007

Wondrous Gifts of Giving



Something I enjoy doing every time we have a holiday (Christmas, Thanksgiving and/or Father's/Mother's Day) is to cook something for our Pastor. Be it a complete dinner with all the trimmings or just a hearty soup, he is always so appreciative and very thankful every time I bring in a "surprise" for him and his wife. Today, Sunday, I got up early and baked them a chicken pot pie and assorted Christmas cookies in a hurry and brought it with me to Sunday service. My actual cookie-baking day is not until tomorrow but since they live quite a drive from us, I want to give him and his wife something for Christmas. His wife is quadriplegic and she can no longer do what she used to do. Seeing his face lite up when I tell him that "something" is waiting for him on his desk is more than enough reward for me.


Combined Federal Campaign with United Way

Over the years I have always found volunteering to be one of the most emotionally rewarding experiences. This season I was one of the few "Combined Federal Campaign" key players at work. Our goal was to raise $20,000 in three weeks. The money we raised will help transform the lives of families who are less fortunate here and abroad.

We exceeded our goal by the end of 3 weeks! Yeah! We raised over $27,000 and the highest fund-raiser beat me by only $200! Darn, oh well, I had fun getting the title of number one fund-raiser for over 2 weeks ... and there's always next year. There was an award ceremony attended by our Medical Center Director and as expected, I was one of the recipients. Although being recognized is nice, to me there is nothing like knowing somewhere in the U.S. and around the globe, CFC is helping a family in need and I am proud to be part of it.

I was asked to chair the CFC fund raising next year ... I might just accept it. After all, what would be a better gift to give someone in need than the wondrous gift of giving.

Be a volunteer ... it will do your heart good! :)

8 comments:

Pepe said...

It's nice to share the blessings specially on christmas day Nance.... You know, we often do that sa pinas during christmas pero this time ay hindi yata namin kayang gawin kasi kami naman ang na-short this year.... Hindi rin natuloy uwi ko because of that reason, pero promise ko sa sarili na kung matuloy ako next christmas ay babawi na lang ako dun sa binibigyan namin ng gifts.... Have a happy christmas Nance....! =D

Nance said...

Whatever happened, pepe, you will come out a winner at the end, don't think much about it ... kasi pinapagpala daw ang mga mapagbigay na tao, doble daw ang balik.
God bless and merry Christmas to you too.

Mari said...

It is a good feeling to give when the receiver is very appreciative. Bless your good heart, Nance.

Those goodies look so yummy, now I'm getting hungry.

Happy holidays to you and your family.

Nance said...

It is a good feeling indeed, mari, it's addictive, you want to do it over and over again! lol

Merry Christmas to you and the geek ... and, hugs to your "little ones" ;)

Nini said...

merry christmas, nance. you have a good heart and sharing it with brothers and sisters is the best way to celebrate christmas!

best wishes for the the coming year.

nini

Nance said...

Nini,
Merry Christmas to you and yours too! Are the little ones coming to visit their favorite aunt?

p.s.
the fist stage of your request is posted on the other side of my blog.
enjoy!

Carlota said...

yummy cookie. you are so nice Nance, sharing to your love ones is the best feeling.

Merry Christmas and have a blessed New year. hugs & kisses.

Anonymous said...

Happy New Year :) Sharing is the reason why Christmas is my favorite season ...