SPRING CLEANING?

Don't you love it when spring time comes along and everything is fresh and new?  People often do deep cleaning and organization of their homes when the season comes.  My mother is a little different.  Spring cleaning would occur in December.  She always says, "You don't start the new year with dirt and a mess!"  So, every year, we would deep clean the house, rearrange furniture and get rid of things we didn't need and donate it to charity.   It was a tradition.  A few years ago I decided to take my childhood tradition and take it to another level: spiritual house cleaning.  As we say goodbye to one year and enter in to another, let's make an effort to go it with a fresh start and a clean house.    

Imagine this…

It is garbage day and you forgot to take the trash out to the curb.  Because of your busy schedule, you haven’t been able to put the trash out for quite some time and now you hear on the news that the sanitation department is on strike.  You panic because you already have a lot of trash built up and you have no idea when the next pick up will be.  Two things happen:

1.    Your home smells foul and is dirty because of all of the trash 

2.    You have no room in the house for the new furniture being delivered because the house is a mess

Of course, this example is a little extreme (hoping no one can relate to this) but it helps to explain the purpose of spiritual cleaning.  Many of us go through our busy lives fitting God in when we have time instead of making time for God.  As time goes by, we are busier and more detached spiritually.  We become used to the filth around us and become more exposed to the enemy’s tactics.  The results, similar to my example above, are two-fold:

1.    We become irritated and irritating. Our relationships suffer because instead of the sweet aromatic personality, we give off a stench of bitter garbage.

2.    Our spiritual house is so cluttered with junk, we have no room for the blessings God has for us.   Often times we can’t even recognize a blessing when it is coming our way because our focus is on the wrong thing.  

Spring cleaning - [spring klee-ning]

noun: the activity of giving a place a complete cleaning

We can polish our silver and organize our pantry but the spiritual cleaning goes deeper.  Sometimes we have things in our homes that leave us open to spiritual attacks.  Here is a list of few things that you would want to get rid of during your cleaning:

•  Ouija board and other items associated with witchcraft (even if you think it’s just for fun)
•  Things associated with past sins (there is no reason to keep the bong as a souvenir)
•  Art with demonic influence, such as, skulls, snakes death, etc. 
•  Mementos from past inappropriate relationships (that bracelet from the person you were having an affair with has to go)
• Pornography

If you have any of these items on my sample list, now is the time to part ways with them.  If you want to go in to the new year prepared for what God has planned for you, it starts with a spiritually clean house.  Once you have gone through and thrown away what doesn't belong, that's when the prayer begins.  Pray for forgiveness.  Pray for a spiritually clean home.  Pray that whatever spirits that were attached to those things are gone from your home and God's protection prevails.

The bible says in Hosea:

My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. Hosea 4:6 (ESV)

Now that you have some knowledge, what will you do with it?  In my last post for 2014, I encourage you to start the new year off with less junk, clutter and filth, physically and spiritually.  

If you want more information and details on how to spiritually cleans your home, email me directly at info@mendingmaria.com.

Have a blessed 2015!

Mending Maria

LET IT GO

It seems everywhere I go these days, I hear the song from Disney's Frozen, Let It Go.  I was at the diner the other morning and it was playing and the song stuck in my head for the rest of the day.  "Let it go.  Let it gooo". 

There's a part in the song where it says, "I'm never going back.  The past is in the past."  After singing it for the 20^th time, I started thinking about the past, specifically, 2014. 

This year has been a challenging one for me to say the least.  I would be lying if I said that I didn't pick up an offense or two along the way and held a couple of grudges by the time the spring flowers in were in bloom.  But what good did that do me?  Thankfully, I didn't let it consume me for too long, because when I think of all the time I wasted being bitter, it was just time wasted.  

One of my favorite quotes is “Unforgiveness is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die”.  This is crazy but it’s so true!  While you are going through all of the bitterness and anger, the other person feels nothing.  They could care less.  Why not just forgive them and move on?  Why not just let it go?

It sounds like a simple task.  There have been many books written about it and just as many sermons preached on it.  So, why is it that we find it so hard to do?  It’s almost like a bad habit.  Let’s take smoking as an example.  If you want to stop smoking, the trick is that there is no trick.  You have to just make the decision to stop.   It is the same thing with unforgiveness.   You have to make the decision to forgive the person who wronged you and go on with your life.  When you don’t forgive, you are the one that is missing out on life.  You are the one that is being hurt.  You are the one that is drinking the poison.

As we go in to 2015 and I am looking towards a brand new year with new opportunities, I am excited by what is to come.  I am thinking about today and anticipating what God has for me for the future.   Life is short.  Spending time thinking about the past and griping over how people have done you wrong is time you will never get back. 

One thing that I never claim to be is perfect.  I have to remind myself, why do I look for perfection in others?  We are only human.  We are bound to hurt each other eventually.   Though sometimes the blows seem to come one after another like the final round in a match with Ali, we have to remember that there is grace.  As we are shown grace, we have to extend grace.  I refuse to be shackled because of unforgiveness.   I refuse to let unforgiveness manifest itself in me, making me a bitter and angry person without a light. 

Take Paul’s advice to the people in Ephesus:

31 Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice.  32Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another as God in Christ forgave you. (Ephesians 4:31-32 ESV)

So as you are saying good bye to 2014 and you’re looking at the year in review, don’t reflect on the hurts.  Forgive.  Start 2015 with a clean slate and a clean heart and truly let it go. 

Mending Maria

Oh Christmas Tree....

One of my favorite Christmas traditions is watching A Charlie Brown Christmas.  Creator Charles M. Schultz did a beautiful job in this television special reminding viewers the true meaning of Christmas.  My favorite part is when a discouraged Charlie Brown runs off after unsuccessfully decorating his tree and his friends step in and make it beautiful.   When Charlie returns to his tree, he is overwhelmed by what his friends have done and they start singing Christmas carols.  I love it! 

That scene gave me a great idea.  Every year our family decorates our tree as well as décor around the house and I have to admit, it is a gruesome chore.  This year, to maintain the Christmas spirit and peace and joy, I’ve decided to have a tree trimming party.  Family and close friends are on my guest list to help me decorate the tree while enjoying appetizers, eggnog and holiday tunes.    I’m excited!  I have never had a tree trimming party let alone a Christmas party.  So, for this month’s food blog post, I want to share a couple of appetizers I plan to serve at the gathering, one sweet and the other savory:  Key Lime Pie dip and Hot Crab Dip.  They are tasty, filling and festive!

Key Lime Pie Dip

Ingredients:

2/3 cup sweetened condensed milk

4 ounces cream cheese, softened

¼ fresh lime juice

½ cup heavy cream

3tbsp confectioner’s sugar

   1.   In a small bowl, beat together milk and cream cheese on medium speed until smooth.  Add juice and combine.

   2.   In another bowl. Beat together cream and sugar on medium speed to firm peaks.  Fold in to cream cheese mixture.  Serve immediately or chill and serve cold.

http://www.recipe.com/key-lime-pie-dip/

Hot Crab Dip (Paula Dean’s recipe)

Ingredients:

1 lbs jumbo lump crabmeat (no shells)

1 cup grated pepper jack cheese

¾ cup mayonnaise

¼ cup Parmesan cheese

¼ cup green onions minced (optional)

5-6 roasted garlic cloves or 2 cloves minced

3tbsp Worcestershire sauce

2 tbsp fresh lemon or lime juice

1 tsp hot pepper sauce

½ tsp dry mustard

Salt and pepper

   1.   Preheat oven to 350 degrees F

   2.   Combine all of the ingredients in a casserole and gently stir until thoroughly mixed. 

   3.   Bake for 40 minutes.  Serve hot with crackers or toast points.

http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/paula-deen/hot-crab-dip-recipe.html

Do you have any plans to host a Christmas party?  Share your ideas with me!  info@mendingmaria.com

Mending Maria  

LET PROVIDENCE BE YOUR GUIDE

I was flipping through channels the other day and saw an old episode of Oprah’s Master Class.  Morgan Freeman was the guest and I couldn’t help but put the remote down.  I’ve loved Morgan Freeman since I was a child watching him on The Electric Company.  It was interesting seeing a side of him that I never knew. 

At one point in the show, Freeman spoke about how he was faced with the choice of continuing his military career or following his dream as an actor.   He said, “When you have made your choice, it is Providence that is your guide.”  Providence.  Providence?   

[prov-i-duh  ns]

noun-

1.   the foreseeing care and guidance of God or nature
2. God, especially when conceived as omnisciently directing the universe and the affairs of humankind with wise benevolence. 

In other words, when you are making decisions, let God be your guide.  Yes!  Amen!   I agree! 

Easier said than done, right? 

We go through our everyday lives making decisions and hoping it is the right one.  Should I marry him?  Is this the career for me?  What state should I move to?  We call our mom, our friend, our psychologist, but we seldom call on the one that holds our lives in His hands.   Proverbs 3:5 says: 

Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don’t try to figure out everything on your own. (MSG)

Even when we are at a fork in the road and our way looks better than His way, we have to trust that His path is the one to take.  We have no idea what is waiting for us down that road, only God does. 

I love this graphic of a whale playing “trust fall” with a few men in a boat.  Common sense would tell us these men will not survive if the whale fell backwards expecting them to catch him.  Sometimes we see our circumstances the same way.  Common sense says you have to settle and marry that man because you may never find your soul mate.  Common sense may say that you have to change careers because doing what you love won’t make you rich.  Common sense may even tell you to stay where you are and not move to another state where the hope of better opportunities awaits.   Trust tells us that God is in control and when we have faith and believe in Him, he will guide us down the right path (the right decision).

What are you struggling with right now?  Give it to God.  Let Him counsel you and lead you to the right decision.  As it says in Deuteronomy 31:6, God goes with you and will never leave you or forsake you.  Trust in that.  

Mending Maria

VIP SHOPPING

The biggest shopping season is here.  Retailers are posting their holiday specials for the weekend and some are even starting Thanksgiving Day.  The day after Thanksgiving is officially Black Friday; the Christmas season kicks off and shoppers take advantage of the biggest deals of the year.  American Express declared Saturday as Small Business Saturday to help promote local small businesses.  The following Monday is Cyber Monday, which promotes online shopping for those avoiding the hustle and bustle of the retail stores.  Either way, this year is forecasted to be the biggest shopping season yet!

This year I have decided to go a different route with the bulk of my shopping: direct sales.  You know the consultants that ask you to host a party with a few of your friends to showcase their products?  I used to run away from them when I saw them coming.  Host a party to sell me something?  Aint nobody got time for that!  Then one day I gave in and hosted a party.  What an eye opener!  I got to learn about the company, the products, and the business opportunity all while earning free products!  

Here are my top three businesses for direct sales this shopping season:  Mary Kay, The Pampered Chef and Thirty-One.


I have been a long time fan of Mary Kay products.  Known for their pink Cadillac driving directors, this company is all about enriching women’s lives.  In 1963, Mary Kay Ash started a cosmetics company that today, is one of the largest direct selling companies in the world.  My favorite product is the skincare.  I attended a party (skincare class) and learned so much about taking proper care of my skin as well as great make up tips.  The product line includes a range of award winning beauty products for women, men and teens.   My consultant keeps me updated on the latest products and always reminds me when it is time to replenish my products before they run out.  I like the benefit of having a personal consultant to help me shop and this season, she is going to come in very handy.  Check out their website at www.marykay.com and find a consultant near you.  


As you already know, I love to cook.  Needless to say, when I was invited to a Pampered Chef party (cooking show) a few years ago, I was more than excited.  Founded by Doris Christopher in 1980, The Pampered Chef focuses on high-quality kitchen tools that help turn the everyday cook in to a chef extraordinaire.  What I love about the products are the tips and instructions that come along with them.  Sure, I can go in to a department store and shop a kitchen item in the housewares department, but most likely, the sales person isn't going to do a cooking demonstration with that item in my home before I buy it.  I have received many delicious recipes and cooking tips throughout the years and the products have stood the test of time.  My favorite is the Stoneware collection, specifically the round stone.  It is perfect for homemade pizza.  Shop their website today and see for yourself why Pampered Chef is named the premier direct seller in high quality kitchen tools. www.pamperedchef.com

In 2003 Cindy Monroe took her embroidery machine and organizational skills and birthed a business called Thirty-One.  Designed to help women simplify their lives, this company has products ranging from purses and totes to storage bins.  What I like the most about these products is that they are personalized.  You select your item, choose your favorite print design, and personalize it with your initials.  The items I love most are the totes.  I'd like to think that I am a pretty organized person so, I love these totes that help me keep order in a stylish way.  I used to be an avid plastic tote lover (nothing wrong with the plastics) but I love having totes specific to different needs and all matching.  Just like the other companies mentioned above, Thirty-One has parties where people can gather to shop exclusive products and hostesses have the opportunity to earn free and discounted products.  Go to www.thirtyonegifts.com and see what you can find for that special someone on your list this season.  

I hope you add these companies to your Christmas shopping list.  If you do, let me know your experience.  Email me at info@mendingmaria.com.  I'd love to hear from you!

Have a great Thanksgiving and a safe Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday.

Mimie

YOU'RE INVITED

The countdown to Thanksgiving continues and menus are planned and grocery lists are being made.  This year, I have the honor of being a guest at a family member’s Thanksgiving dinner.  Usually, I am the one hosting the dinner, so it will be a welcomed change to sit back and watch someone else tango with a 20 pound turkey. 

  

Of course, I can’t just be happy and take the opportunity to have a restful Thanksgiving.  Instead, I come up with the great idea to have a dessert party.  After everyone fills their tummies with savory dishes, and after a nap (Uncle Michael), family and friends will gather at my home for a dessert party.   Sweet potato pie or pumpkin cheesecakes are my usual desserts on Thanksgiving Day.   Although those are my favorites, I need a few more for the party.    After surveying a few people and surfing the net, I’ve come up with two other desserts to add to the party menu:

Caramel Apple Cake and Pecan Bars

All the desserts will be cut in small pieces so that guests can try a little of everything.  I found these cute spoons and plates at Party City that are perfect for tasting parties. 

 But four desserts are not enough.  I need your help!  Send me your ideas on what other desserts I can add to my menu.  I’m looking for 2-3 more desserts to make it a fun Thanksgiving dessert party.  Email me at info@mendingmaria.com or Tweet me your ideas @MendingMaria. 

Here are the recipes below for the cupcakes and bars:

Caramel Apple Cake

Ingredients

For the Caramel and Apples:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus more for the pan

3 cups sugar

5 tablespoons light corn syrup

1 cup heavy cream

4 large Golden Delicious apples (1 3/4 to 2 pounds)

For the Batter:

3 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 cup sour cream

1/3 cup fresh orange juice

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1 stick unsalted butter, softened

1 1/2 cups sugar

3 large eggs

Directions

Butter a 9-by-3-inch round cake pan. Make the caramel: Cook the sugar and corn syrup in a large skillet over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is dark amber, 7 to 10 minutes.

Reduce the heat to medium. Carefully add the cream and 4 tablespoons butter (it will splatter) and cook, stirring, until combined, about 3 minutes.

Remove the skillet from the heat and let sit 1 minute. Pour 1 1/2 cups caramel into a glass measuring cup and set aside. Pour the remaining caramel into the prepared pan and set aside until set, about 30 minutes.

Cut 3 apples into quarters and cut out the cores with a paring knife. Arrange the pieces skin-side down in the pan (overlapping them slightly) to form a ring about 1/2 inch from the edge. Save any pieces that do not fit for later.

Halve the remaining whole apple crosswise. Scoop out the seeds with a melon baller or measuring spoon, leaving the stem on the top half. Chop the bottom and any of the leftover quartered apples into pieces; set aside.

Arrange the apple top, stem-side down, in the center of the pan. If the quartered apples shift, just push them back into place.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Make the batter: Whisk the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and cinnamon in a medium bowl. In a small bowl, whisk the sour cream, orange juice and vanilla.

Using a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, beat the butter and sugar on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes.

Crack the eggs into a small bowl. Slip them into the mixer bowl, one at a time, and beat until the mixture is pale and creamy, about 5 more minutes. Scrape down the bowl and beater with a rubber spatula.

With the mixer on low speed, add half of the sour cream mixture, then half of the flour mixture. Repeat. Turn off the mixer and scrape down the bowl with a rubber spatula; finish combining the batter by hand.

Spread the batter over the apples in the pan. Top with the chopped apple. Bake on the middle oven rack until the cake is brown on top and springs back when pressed, 1 hour to 1 hour 20 minutes (don't worry if the top is dark). Cool in the pan on a rack.

Bring 1 inch of water to a simmer in a skillet wide enough to hold the cake pan. Carefully run a sharp knife around the inside of the pan several times, then rest the pan in the water to soften the caramel, about 8 minutes. Remove the pan from the water and dry.

Invert a plate on top of the cake, then flip over the cake and plate. Using pot holders or a towel, wriggle the pan off. Soften the reserved 1 1/2 cups caramel in the microwave, about 2 minutes. Drizzle the cake with some of the caramel. Slice and serve with the rest.

Photographs by Kana Okada

Recipe courtesy Food Network Magazine

Read more at: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchens/caramel-apple-cake-recipe2.print.html?oc=linkback

Pecan Bars

Ingredients

Crust:

1 1/2 sticks (3/4 cup) cold unsalted butter, cubed, plus more for dish

1 1/2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour

2/3 cup light brown sugar

1 teaspoon kosher salt

Filling:

1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened

1 cup light brown sugar

Pinch salt

1/3 cup light corn syrup

1/4 cup unbleached all-purpose flour

3 cups coarsely chopped pecans

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Line a 13 by 9-inch baking dish with foil allowing an overhang about 2 inches off the sides. Butter the foil.

In a food processor, blend together flour, sugar, butter and salt until the mixture resembles coarse sand. Add 2 tablespoons cold water and mix until the dough just holds together. Press dough into bottom of buttered baking dish and bake in oven until golden in color, about 20 to 25 minutes.

Meanwhile, make the filling. In a stand mixer fitted with paddle attachment, add the butter, brown sugar and a pinch of salt and mix on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add the corn syrup, flour and pecans and mix until just combined. Spread the filling over the baked crust and bake until golden brown, about 30 to 35 minutes. Remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan.

Remove from pan by pulling up the foil sides and putting it on a cutting board. Cut bars in desired size with a sharp knife and arrange them on a serving tray. Can be stored in an airtight container up to 2 days.

Recipe courtesy Claire Robinson, 2010

Read more at: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/claire-robinson/pecan-bars-recipe.print.html?oc=linkback

TAKE INVENTORY

 Here we are again, that time of year when families get together for the holidays.   We get so consumed with the hustle and bustle that often times we forget to stop and take it all in.  Thanksgiving Day: the day to give thanks.   

When I look at my life and the people I share it with, I can’t help to be grateful.  However, I admit, I don’t always behave that way.    I can tell you 5 things that I am challenged with these days.  For example: my car has seen the mechanic more times this year than we have seasons.  An army of ants have declared war on my house and refuse to concede.  Road construction projects have added 20 minutes travel time to my morning route to work.  Wait…isn’t this called complaining?

Complain:  [kuh  m-pleyn]

Verb

1.    to express dissatisfaction, pain, uneasiness censure, resentment, or grief

It doesn’t get us anywhere, but we do it all the time.  We complain about the dissatisfaction in our lives until we are either angry or depressed.  The bible says in 1Thessalonians 5:18:

Give thanks in all circumstances (ESV)

It doesn't say to remember to give thanks once a year.  It doesn't say to give thanks when things are going easy.  It says, in all circumstances, give thanks.  There is something about giving thanks and showing appreciation for the things you have instead of focusing on the things you don’t have.  For example, my car may have had mechanical problems, but I am grateful that I have a car to get around in. The ants that have decided to move in can easily be handled with pest control, but thank Goodness that I have a house to live in.  The traffic can be frustrating on the way to work but I am thankful that I have a job to go to.  

When we look at the circumstances that we are in on the surface, the immediate response is to complain.  If we look deeper, we may see that it could be worse than what it is and there is always something to be thankful for.  There is a homeless old man in a wheelchair that I see often when I go to the supermarket. Every time I see Tony, I chat with him and give him a bottle of water or a sandwich.  Once I asked him how he was doing and he replied, “I’m alive, I met some nice people today and you blessed me with this ice cold bottle of water.  I am a grateful man.”  I thought the heat of the summer was getting to him and didn't think much about what he said at the time.  In retrospect, wasn’t Tony living out 1 Thessalonians 5:18?  Even being homeless, he found reasons to be thankful. 

Let’s take inventory of our lives.  Often time we take things for granted and whether it is a little or a lot, we forget to give thanks.  I challenge you to take a closer look at your life and you will see opportunities to be thankful instead of areas to complain about.  I bought a journal and titled it the “Thankful Book”.  Every day I list 5 different things I am grateful for in the journal.  This practice has changed my perspective of my circumstances and keeps me thankful in all things. 

I want to know what you are thankful for.  Tweet me @MendingMaria #thankful.  You can also email me at info@mendingmaria.com.  I would love to hear from you!

Mending Maria

WINNER ANNOUNCED!

For the month of October, I put out a challenge: 
31 Days of R.A.K. (random acts of kindness).  Each day I challenged you to consciously make an effort to do something nice for someone and the feedback was fabulous!  To make the challenge a little more interesting, I added a giveaway.  Each time you tweeted your RAK to +Mending Maria, you were entered to win a $25 Starbucks gift card.  

Thanks to all of you who entered the 31 Days of RAK challenge.  Now it's time to announce the winner:

Congratulations Mary Joyce A. Paual from California!

 You have won a Starbucks gift card courtesy of Mending Maria!  

In the spirit of random acts of kindness, we can't just stop there.  I've decided to add another winner!

Congratulations Stella Auxila from Florida!  

You have also won a Starbucks gift card courtesy of Mending Maria! 

Thank you ladies for keeping up with the challenge and paying it forward. This was fun!  I'm already looking forward to the next challenge!
:-)

Mending Maria

BE AWARE

Usually when the month of October comes around, the first think people think of is Halloween.  Although the holiday itself is not celebrated until the last day of the month, everywhere you go there is décor of pumpkins and goblins.  However, the month of October is also known for raising social awareness for many different things that affect our lives every day.   For example, did you know that the month of October is dedicated to AIDS awareness?  It is also the month to raise awareness for bullying prevention and dental hygiene awareness.  I want to focus on three other observances that are just as important but sometimes overlooked: breast cancer, domestic violence and pregnancy and infant loss awareness.   

Recognized by the infamous pink ribbon, Breast Cancer Awareness month started in 1985 by the American Cancer Society and a pharmaceutical company known for manufacturing several cancer fighting drugs.  According to www.breastcancer.org, one out of every eight women develops invasive breast cancer. This disease is no stranger to society.  October is dedicated to educating women about the disease and promoting early detection by reminding women to get screened.  Throughout the years, science has learned more about the disease and how to fight it, especially if detected early.  This month, join the cause to get the word out through various events:  marathons, health fairs, mixers, or simply just wear pink.  If you haven’t scheduled your mammogram for this year, do it now.  Remind a mother, a sister a friend.  Early detection can save your life!

Lately, the news has been full of stories of domestic violence involving celebrities.  What about the stories that we don’t hear about?  Domestic violence has been an issue for decades and October is designated for awareness of this social issue.   The statistics of those that are victims of domestic violence are disheartening.  Although mostly associated with women, more men are becoming victims of abuse.  This month, awareness is put forth not only for people to know that the abuse exists, but for the victims to know that there is help.  According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, it is reported that 24 people per minute are victims of domestic violence.  Imagine what the number would be if all instances were reported.  People have to know that there is help.  It starts with knowing if you’re a victim first and then learning how to be a victor.  There are many resources for victims for healing and restoration available.  There is hope!

Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness month began with President Ronald Reagan when he made his proclamation in October of 1988.  Initially started to shed light on miscarriages and still birth, over the years the month has included awareness to infant loss due SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome).  It is said that there is no greater loss than that of a child and the grief is unbearable.  During this month of awareness, parents and loved ones band together to remember their babies and heal together as a community.  With one in every three pregnancies ending in loss, there are millions of people dealing with the emotional shock on a daily basis with no knowledge of hope.  Awareness brings resources and outlets for families to learn to “live” after the loss.  Ronald Reagan said "When a child loses his parent, they are called an orphan. When a spouse loses her or his partner, they are called a widow or widower. When parents lose their child, there isn't a word to describe them."  This month, let us remember not only the babies but the parents and loved ones. 

When the month is over and all of the social events have ended, the causes will still remain.  Don’t hide breast cancer awareness in the back of your mind until next year.  Don’t ignore signs of domestic violence in your life or a loved one’s life until it is too late.  Don’t distance yourself from others after a loss of an infant.  In all of these situations, there is help.  For more information, visit these sites below. 

Breast Cancer

http://www.breastcancer.org/

http://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/

http://ww5.komen.org/

Domestic Violence

http://www.thehotline.org/

http://www.domesticviolence.org/

http://www.safehorizon.org/index.php

Pregnancy and Infant Loss

http://nationalshare.org/

http://www.firstcandle.org/

http://www.pilari.org/

If you or someone you know has had experience with breast cancer, domestic violence, pregnancy loss or infant loss, I want to pray for you.  Email me at info@mendingmaria.com

Mending Maria

CHALLENGE UPDATE- 31 DAYS OF R.A.K.

     We are at the final stretch of our October challenge: 31 days of RAK (random acts of kindness).  How’s it going?  At the beginning of the month I challenged you to do at least one random act of kindness each day for the month of October.   To add some spice to the challenge, I am giving away a $25 Starbucks gift card at the end of the month.   All you have to do to enter is tweet what RAK you performed for the day to @MendingMaria  and #31daysofrak.  You can also go to www.mendingmaria.com and enter on the What’s New page. 

  

     I love the feedback so far and the stories of how you feel and the reaction of the person you showed kindness too.  It’s funny how something may seem so little to one person but mean the world to another.  For example, a couple of co-workers and I went out to dinner a few days ago and enjoyed a good meal and great conversation.  Towards the end of the evening, one of my co-workers handed me a book.  “I saw this and thought of you.”  It was a book on prayers.  What timing!  I was having a rough week and the gesture was very comforting. Get out of your comfort zone and do something nice.  You never know just who might need a touch of love today!

     Some of you have requested more ideas on what to do.  Here are some more ideas.  Don’t forget to tweet!

•         Be kind to someone you dislike
•         Collect food for a food bank
•         Cook a meal for someone
•         Give someone a hug
•         Donate used clothing
•         Call someone you haven’t talked to in a while
•         Visit a nursing home or senior center
•         Write a letter of appreciation
•         Babysit for a single parent
•         Bake something for your neighbors
•         Give a lottery ticket to a stranger
•         Be someone’s cheerleader
•         Write a referral for someone
•         Send someone an ecard for no special occasion
•         Pay for the person behind you at the drive-thru
•         Teach someone how to make your favorite recipe
•         Give someone a makeover
•         Donate old toys
•         Invite a friend for dinner
•         Mentor a teen
•         Simply say something nice!

       Mending Maria