Apr 12, 2012

Random Act of Kindness


Did you know that a random act of kindness can go a long, long, way?
Did you know that a simple help may mean a lot?
That a simple glass to the thirsty is hope restored?
That an offered umbrella to the traveler is like a resting place of peace?
That a smile, a simple encouragement, an advice to never surrender maybe the reason for a success?
That you my friend can be a vessel of hope to the weary? Yes You. Awesome You.

No matter how much you think of yourself, never underestimate the power of kindness.  You may not know it but the person being helped is very much encouraged by your act of kindness.  For you it may be nothing but for someone it may mean the whole world.

Here I am, a witness to that kindness.  And I want you to know and to believe that a simple act of kindness, a little help, a simple gift can change a person’s world, of how he or she views life and it’s trials. You can be a tool. A hope to the weary. A light to the darkness.  A little spark.

To the Cornetto boy - Tarzan, who came just in time when we were so tired. Thank you. The spirit you have given us was marvelous. We were so tired and weary from the journey, our feet could not move even one step further but then you came along with your box of Cornetto and we were given strength we have never known was still in us. We were like drained batteries suddenly recharged by your kindness. You may not know it but after your gift we were walking like we have never been tired at all. Joyous and very much encouraged.  Thank you. 

After receiving the gift - Joy Captured.

A look of renewed strength on our faces after a whole day of walking 



Note:
This will be a series of post of Lessons learned after the Panaad 2012 in Camiguin Island. Which took us 3 days of walking to complete the whole trip around the island, 63 km long.

Apr 2, 2012

How to Cut Costs and Still Pamper Your Pet

This is a guest post article.


Do you have a dog or a cat? You are not by yourself! It is estimated that there are 78 Million dogs and 86 Million cats in the United States alone. WOW.

The pet industry is booming, bringing in an estimated 46 Billion (that’s right, BILLION) dollars per year, and each and every year that number increases. This number includes food, toys, accessories, and vet visits.

Lets face it; even in times of recession our dogs get dog beds rawhide chews and toys. Some dogs get clothes. Cats also get food, the occasional toy, litter, cat trees, and what ever else strikes the owner while in the store.

When I came across these numbers they were a little unbelievable to me, so I took a walk around my house just to see what all my pets have.  (I own multiple dogs and cats). I was really surprised to see how many toys, beds, collars, leashes, treats and food is in my home.

A little simple math told me that I had about $350.00 worth of pet ‘stuff’. Since I do own multiple pets, I have learned how to save money when possible.

Food:
If the food you currently feed your animals is on sale, buy a lot of it. If feeding dry food, check the expiration dates on the bags then buy as many bags as you know they will eat by that date.

Toys:
Only buy toys when they are on sale. Trust me, your dog or cat does not care if he is playing with Santa Claus in April. (Seasonal toys such as Christmas, Easter, and Valentines go on sale for as much as 75% off after the season passes). The same goes for dog clothes.

Bedding:
Dog and cat beds go on sale about once or twice a year. If you own a cat, and dog beds are on sale, consider small size donut dog beds for your cats. The donut dog beds work for both animals. If your pet likes to cuddle in blankets, wait until spring and buy the really cheap (people) blankets on clearance.

TIP: If you own small dogs or cats, cut the blankets into 4 or 6 pieces; hem the cut edges. You now have 4 to 6 pet blankets that you spent less than $5.00 on!

Hopefully these tips will help you save some money. You can probably think of more ways to save if you put your mind to it!





 
Images by Freepik