So excited about the new Wind Turbine I had to take a pic on my iPhone while sitting in traffic!

Not only does Kaddy Car Wash kick butt at washing cars, but the owner of this establishment is doing his part to keep this earth clean and is now starting to run the business partly on clean energy.   First off, Kaddy Car Wash reclaims the runoff from the car washing process to keep it from going into our natural water sources.  Secondly, Kaddy Car Wash cleans your car with quality, environmentally friendly products to help the earth and your car.  And Thirdly, and this is so cool, Kaddy Car Wash just installed a WIND TURBINE at the Andresen street location in Vancouver, WA.  I highly recommend any one in the Vancouver, WA are to go check it out, get your car washed and say thank you to the winds for contributing to your shiny car!  And thank you, Chuck Kaddy, for this cool addition!   

I just have to give a shout out to Craigslist.  Specifically Craigslist-Portland.  Todd and I re-did our computer room.  To us it was past time.  In doing so, we had a hide-a-bed couch and computer desk sitting in the garage needing a home.  Neither one of them belonged in a landfill.  They were both in good condition, both well used, and they just needed somewhere new to go.  So I posted both of them on craigslist for free. 

Within 10 minutes I had 5 requests from Craigslist and a total of 15 requests for the furniture by the time they were picked up and in a new home!  Within 2 hours from the time I posted the add on craigslist, both the couch and desk went to a new home of a newly widowed woman who has two young daughters.  Thank you CRAIGSLIST!  You are AWESOME!  If you’ve never experienced Craigslist, check it out.  They have something for everyone!

 Written by a dear friend who wanted to post something to honor her family’s beloved friend.

RIGGS AND US:  THE LOCAL”MARLEY AND ME”

I’ll never forget the day we went to pick up our beautiful new puppy.  I never had a dog of my own before, and although Mike had, this was our gift to each other.  It was something we were doing together.  We weren’t even engaged yet, so the responsibility of having her was the beginning of us.  All the other little puppies were barely walking, hardscrabble little blond beings who were tripping over each other and making tiny fools of themselves.  And then there was Riggs, walking, marching, running ahead of the pack.  She was always the fastest dog around.

Riggs, although never an affectionate dog, had an uncanny ability to win people’s hearts.  She made you feel like you were the center of all her attention.  She would run, furiously wag her tail and jump up, slamming her sidebody into your leg or anything else she could make contact with.  She was all about the thrill of an adventure and our joy of watching her took us on countless excursions both near and far.  On hiking trails, her favorite activities were body slamming into strangers, swimming and peeing in bodies of water, searching for food and always finding her way away from us.  At the dog park, she would shimmy up to the other dogs, tease them with her cute blondness, then take off in a scorching run when she had acquired their attention.  And then there was her smile.  That dog had a smile.

During her 13 years, Riggs destroyed untold amounts of our possessions.  There was the time she sucked on our resin lawn furniture until it looked like someone had taken a blow torch to it.  Or when she pulled all the stuffing out of our cushions so it looked like it had snowed.  Or when she smelled something she had to have and dug a hole through the carpet and padding to the subfloor of our rented house.  Or the countless socks, shirts, plastic toys (ripped apart until the “squeakie” was obtained), stuffed animals who lost their battle with her teeth and acid saliva. 

When our kids were born, as often happens, Riggs took the back seat.  She did it in stride, never malicious to the kids but somehow hopeful that she would one day again have her throne.  She had a particular fondness for Barbie feet and Littlest Pet shop.  We continued hiking with her, bringing her on trips and throwing her her beloved frisbee.  But she never regained her position of prominence pre-children.  Mike and I feel guilty about that but know that it was inevitable.  She got some attention by constantly jumping over the fence and visiting all our neighbors, in search of new types of food, making new friends and making us crazy. By doing so, we met lots of new neighbors, had trips to the vet ER and lots of interesting new poo to clean up (the remains of snacks provided by her new pals). 

Over the last couple years, she began to move more slowly, bark less, jump less and get out of the yard less.  Her preferred place to be was in our front yard, watching passersby and feeling like she was part of the action.  She was always there, no matter what life brought us.  She was always home, even when she greeted us less and less.  When she began losing weight, we thought she was going through one of her spells again, where she ate slug bait or some plastic thing that stopped her from eating.  She withdrew from us physically and emotionally and looked sad.  It was hard to see her this way.  So, this past week, Mike and I said a tearful goodbye to our puppy.  It was the end of an era for us. Mike and I know Riggs has marked the first part of our lives together and that her life is a reflection of ours and that our memories are reflected in her.  Because she was always there.

Rest in peace, Riggs.  You were an unforgettable dog.  In heaven, you can run fast again.

UPDATE:
Excerpt taken from North Beach Paws website…http://www.northbeachpaws.org/…
“Excellent vet care and a loving foster home have made a tremendous difference in Angel’s life. She is putting on weight & getting stronger, healthier & happier every day. She was spayed on Dec 17. She is extremely well mannered, house trained & gets along very well with all the dogs in her foster home. To see additional photos of ANGEL including pictures of her minutes after she was rescued, e-mail aldeb@coastaccess.com.”

Angel is ready to be adopted!

The holidays pleasantly ambushed us!  We took a break, had lots of fun, but are now coming back!  Or that is the hope!  New postings to come shortly!

Another great gift idea!!  Trees for Life. 

Check out www.treesforlife.org  This organization is helping our world, fighting poverty and world hunger by educating and giving resourceful items, such as fruit bearing trees.  You get to give gifts of empowerment to needed communities.  I want to write more, however, their site is so full of information, it tells it how it is.  Below I give many links so you can check it out!

Go to the Catalog of Gifts and you can purchase a life giving tree (10 trees for $10! what a DEAL), books for the community to educate and empower them, Moringa Trees also known as the Miracle Tree (which is not only highly nutritious, but may also cure up to 300 diseases), help build a library or learning center, etc, the list of items goes on!  I love this site.  I think it is super exciting that we can do this all over the internet.   Plus, what a perfect match for In Honor Of!   You can do all these plus more as gifts, in honor of a friend or family member. 

Keep in mind….This is a fantastic idea to give this as a gift to your child’s teacher who probably has a billion coffee mugs already!

Any readers may recal a post I wrote about the North Beach Paws in Ocean Shores, Wa.  It is just one of the many fabulous groups who help save animals, love them til they are healthy and adopt them out.  I just received an email from Lois regarding a new tenant named Angel.  She is very unhealthy and needs lots of treatment and love or this could be fatal for her. 

If you are looking for one more source to help this holiday season, please consider Angel.  Information on how to help with Angel’s vet costs is within her story at the North Beach Paws site.  Below is Lois’s plea.

Letter from Lois:
Dear Friends, Family and Neighbors,
 
Lee and I volunteer for the local North Beach PAWS organization.  Friday morning we went to the kennels to care for the dogs.  We discovered a new dog that was just rescued by our volunteers and given the name Angel.  Angel is going to require many vet visits and medicine in order to first survive, and then be spayed and vaccinated before she can be available for adoption.  Angel’s story is on Petfinder.com.  Select “dog” and give “98569″ as a zip code and that site will take you to the animals of North Beach PAWS.  Read Angel’s story.
 
It isn’t like to me ask this kind of thing, but she so deserves to live.  All of you are animal lovers.  That’s how you made my list.   Times are tough right now and it’s almost Christmas as well.  However, if you are touched by Angel’s story and would consider a donation to help pay for her medical needs, please send a check to North Beach PAWS c/o Linda Ready, P. O. Box 962, Ocean Shores, WA 98569.  Be sure to state the donation is for Angel’s medical needs.  No amount is too small.
 
I promise not to make a habit of asking for money.  I feel rather like the adds on television, but this little girl just touches my heart and I want to try to help her.
 
Lois Schuster

To those who do not live in Washington State or who did not catch the national news last week, on November 29th, a tragic and unfortunate event took place in Lakewood, WA.  4 police officers lost their lives to a guman who entered the coffee shop where they sat, and took their lives.  The story is horrific for the families, the community and for all of our working heroes. 

To help the families of these 4, the restaurant chain Papa John’s will be doing a fundraiser.  So to all Washington readers, on Tuesday, 12/08/09 and Wednesday, 12/09/09, fourty of  Western Washington Papa Johns Pizza restaurants in KING, PIERCE , THURSTON and KITSAP COUNTIES are donating their profits to the families of the Officers in Lakewood. 

From what I understand, you need to mention you heard about the fundraiser and would like to participate through your pizza order.  I hope they stay true to this!  Let’s see if they do and have a pizza next Tuesday and Wednesday!  So if you are in King, Pierce, Thurston and Kitsap County, remember to check it out!

Dear Readers,

Interested in making an immediate difference in someone’s life?  I am in need of some fanastic social networking (think charity-like, not eharmony-like). 

One my best friends in the world, Whitney (you might recognize the name for my previous post about friendships) – is a “family advocate” which basically is a case manager for high-risk families.  She often finds herself in need of finding items for some of the families that she works with… she has an urgent need for a few items.  And I’m wondering if anyone out there might be able to help us out.

1. Do you happen to have any of the items that her families need?
2. Do you know of someone who might have these items and could forward this request on to them?
3. Do you have any good suggestions for local resources we could use/people we could conact to find these items?

ITEMS NEEDED

• 2 twin beds
• a dining room table
• blankets
• comforters

These are actual needs for REAL PEOPLE – not just to fill a warehouse for future needs.  If you think you can help, please send me an email at Jenny@inhonorof.com or post a comment HERE.

Thank you for taking the time to read this post.  I appreciate any help you can provide.

Love, Jenny

Oregon Ducks vs. Oregon State Beavers

I saw a great facebook status today: “Roses are Red, Violets are Blue… wait, violets?  Who cares about violets?!  Today is all about ROSES!”  (thanks, Kyle Knepper!)

As you may know, today is sure to be one of the most anticpated and exciting games in Oregon College Football.  I am hardly what you could call an “avid sports fan” – but I have been known to get into it from time to time (flashback to my Blazers themed room in elementary school, and my highschool-current age [29+1] obsession with cheerleading). So while I can’t really provide you with any statistics on the teams, or really what the odds are, I CAN tell you that I am really enjoying seeing my friends get into the spirit of this Civil War Game to commence TONIGHT!

As for who I’m rooting for?  Well… I’m hoping that both teams play well, and display excellent sportsmanship, and produce an exciting game for all fans. 

(but I’d be lying if I didn’t mention that I’ve put my Oregon Ducks t-shirt on under my shirt for work today!)

Good luck to both teams – and may all of you fans enjoy the game!

-Jenny

How many of you readers have thought about making a donation to a charity in someone else’s name as a gift this holiday season?  What better way to say “things that are important to YOU, are important to ME” than by supporting a cause that’s close to your gift recipient’s heart?  It’s also a great gift for that person on your list that seems to already “have everything” or someone just flat-out… well… a bit “selective” (aka: a friendly way to say picky!).   Throughout this season you might read a few suggestions from fellow readers as to good causes or charities that enable you to make donations on behalf or in the name of someone else.   A great tool, if you’re curious about this type of gift giving is Charity Navigator (www.charitynavigator.org).  This is a great resource for researching more information about select charities (over 5,000 charities are evaluated on this site!), rating the chairities, giving you suggestions for types of charities you might be interested in, and tips for selecting a good charity.

One charity I find myself donating to each year is the Oregon Humane Society.  It’s reviewed on Charity Navigator.  You can find out great information here -  the charity’s expenses, contact information, summaries, similar charities, etc. 

If you’re thinking of giving a meaningful or different kind of gift this year, consider supporting a charity In Honor Of someone you care about.   Charity Navigator might help you find the perfect charity or help you examine one you are already considered!

Let me know if you know any other tools for finding and evaluating charities this holiday season.  Send me an email at Jenny@inhonorof.com or leave a comment here.  I’d love to hear more!

Today is December First.  The Holiday Season is upon us – it’s true!  While I can’t seem to figure out how 2009 has blown by so fast, I can’t help but smile as I see the decorations in stores, hear the music in our office lobby, and see the holiday cheer in people’s faces!  I absolutely love this time of year – which is probably reflected in the fact that within this past week I’ve already completed some of my shopping (now for the exciting part of wrapping them beautifully!) and purchased/decorated my Christmas Tree! 

The Finishing Touch

Hanging Ornaments

Selecting the Perfect Tree

John and I woke up early on BLACK FRIDAY this past week to join in the Yuletide spirit of shopping for our loved ones.   John eventually gave up on Best Buy – seeing the lines wrapped around the store and the massive number of people packed around each display (I had jumped out and ran in Michael’s instead – ahhh….  I love the Craft Store!) though we did manage to get to Video Only (at John’s request, and to my disappointment – the store really DOES mean “VIDEO ONLY!”  I mean, how many TV’s can one person look at in a day??  Apparently my tolerance is about 4 tvs.  I then get very very very bored).

~A CHANGE IN THOUGHT~

A few years ago I became tired of giving the usual holiday presents (a travel mug here, a half-zip shirt there, and countless gifts in between).  Now please don’t misunderstand me, I don’t dislike or frown upon material gifts – I’ve cried tears of Joy opening my breadmaker (note to self: get a bit more exciting of a life), screamed in delight at my basketball hoop, jumped for joy over Coach purses, adored clothing I’ve received, books I’ve read, cd’s I’ve listened to, etc. etc. etc. - all coming from various friends and family members.  What I DON”T like is the moments I find myself choosing between gifts that have no meaning.  Everyone reading this has probably done it at some point- such as choosing between comfy socks and mittens for your coworker, a santa figurine or a starbucks giftcard for your neighbor, a reindeer sweater or a pair of leggings for your brother-in-law (JUST KIDDING, CHRIS – aka, world’s greatest brother in law – you won’t receive either from me this Christmas!).

This month I’m going to give you some ideas for gifts with meaning.  Maybe donating to an organization we’ve mentioned on our site before in honor of someone, or selecting an item who donates it’s proceeds to a charity, to a million other ideas.  I’d love to hear from you as well as to ideas for THOUGHTFUL and MEANINGFUL gifts.  Please submit a comment and let me (and our fellow readers) know!

Kiva.org

I’d like to start with highlighting Kiva (www.kiva.org).  This is a great website and an incredible organization.  Todd & Jessy introduced me to it a little over 2 years ago.  Since then, I’ve become a lender and have also purchased gift cerftificates for all of my family members to become active with this process.  With Kiva, they let YOU loan to low income entrepreneurs across the world.  Please read more about it here, and take a moment to check out what the website encompasses.  This might be an excellent choice for a holiday gift (either a gift certificate so THEY can participate, or maybe choosing one of their great gifts), or perhaps you’ll want to become a lender yourself.  You have options to choose the region, sector, or gender in which you’d like to assist, and can read and choose from countless real people, needing real help.   It’s an incredible journey to follow along this microfinanced loan – from initial fundraising to the repayment of loans. Check out a great video about this unique process here.

Keep checking back at In Honor Of this month to read about some great ideas this holiday season!

My best to all of you…

Love, Jenny

Turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberries and pie.  All worthy of being honored! 

For my family, Thanksgiving can consist of 2-4 thanksgiving dinners all held between 1 to 2 weekends in November.  Lots of driving, lots of artichoke dip, lots of eating.  So when I think of Thanksgiving, the appreciation of the food depreciates just a tiny bit, however, my appreciation for my family grows.  Sadly, without Thanksgiving I do not know how much I would get to see some of these family members.  The holidays get busy, but I never regret taking the time to see my loved ones for Turkey Day.  How lucky are we to have so much family near us to be able to see most if not all for the holidays. 

I want to say thank you to all my family for taking the time to meet together, eat together, drink together.  One feast on the Schuster side has been devoured!  This year, just one more to go.  My love to you all!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO YOU READERS!

Happy Veterans Day, and a thank you to all those who have served and continue to serve.

Help me find a good charity!

A few weeks ago, my mom (Laurie), John & I went downtown Portland to go see “Capitalism” – the new Michael Moore Movie.  (on a side note, I thought this was a great movie).  We arrived a little early after dinner at The Farm Cafe (also highly recommended!), and decided to walk down to Nordstrom to spend a few minutes looking around.  While we were exiting the store, we saw a little old lady pushing her cart toward the door.  When I say little, I mean little!  This lady was bent to almost a 90-degree angle at the waist so her upper half was basically parallel with the floor.  The signs of arthritis were evident on her hands, and she had some sort of brace on her left foot/lower leg, and she walked with a limp.   She was on her own, pushing her cart at a slow and steady pace, when we noticed that she was headed straight for a set of stairs!  I have no idea if she had a plan to tackle this obsticle (She was so frail and manuevering the cart down a flight of stairs seemed unthinkable!) or if she had even noticed what was in front of here, a mere 10 feet or so.

Immediately we approached her and asked if she’d like assistance… she said yes and John scooped up her cart and carried it down the stairs for her, while my mother and I assisted her on either side down the stairs.  She mentioned that she was headed home, but declined any assistance we offered to help her navigate the rainy streets.  As she shuffled along, I felt helpless to see her go – dressed in an old jacket, too worn to provide much warmth and doing little to protect her from the rain.

Since that event, I have gone through my closet and pulled all of my clothing that I no longer wear.  It’s time to put them to good use.  In the past, I’ve made countless trips to the Goodwill, but THIS time I looking for a charity or organization that helps the “needy of the needy.”  I want them to be donated so that they are dispersed without charge to those needing the items. 

I’m going to research this a bit, but I could definitely use your help – does anyone have any suggestions?  If so, submit a comment (right at the bottom of this entry) or send me an email (Jenny@inhonorof.com).  I will keep you posted with my own research and where I end up taking my items.

-Jenny

To submit/read comments, click on the link below or right here!

One picture says it all.  Fresh eggs waiting to be gathered, sitting 30 steps from the backdoor.  In Honor Of urban chickens and the eggs they lay….I want to say thank you!  Who would have known, that I, someone nervous around all things that fly, would come to like having chickens in my backyard and all the benefits that come along with them, besides the fresh eggs.  So to our special ladies, Josephine, Marshmellow, General Grievous, Tula & Apple “Great job so far.  We appreciate your hard work!”

For anyone interested in urban chickens, check out the 2 links above for great information!

I go in phases during the year where I remember to visit this website daily and wish I remembered all year.  I hope by posting this on InHonorOf I can remind and inspire others to spend 1 minute every day, to go to the website and get Click Happy.  It’s easy.  Go to the Breast Cancer Site , then click where it says “Click Here to Give- It’s Free”.  And voila!…you helped raise money for breastcancer research.  But better yet, click on the Hunger, Child Health, Literacy, Rainforest and Animal Rescue tabs on the top and do it for each organization.  It’s easy and really works!  Get Click Happy!

A great chance to donate or participate!

I am often asked by friends and coworkers that are aware of this website for suggestions of “something good to do.” Most often, these are people just like me – scrambling for time to get their their daily lists (yes. Surprise-Surprise… I’m quite the list maker!) of tasks completed. How in the world would they have time to find a good cause to donate to or research a good service opportunity?

Well one of my favorite things about working on this website is that now and then I’m approached with a fantastic idea, and thus I can share it with you, dear readers!

One of my lovely girlfriends, Colbie Van Eynde, shared something she’s working on… a benefit for Cascade AIDS Project (CAP). She’ll be participating in the 5K Walk on October 11th. Please check out some of the links below. This is a great opportunity to donate to a good cause, to participate your own time and effort (join the walk!) or just to read about CAP!

Check out Cascade AIDS Project here!

Support & Donate Funds for Colbie’s efforts here! (Your donations can even be made IN HONOR OF someone, or In Memory Of – if you would like!)

Participate in the walk or join a team here!

Original Email from Colbie:

Jenny,

Please join me as I take a stand for HIV/AIDS activism. On October
11th, more than 10,000 of us will come together in Pioneer
Courthouse Square with the goal of raising $325,000 for services
provided by Cascade AIDS Project to prevent new HIV infections, care
for people affected and infected by HIV/AIDS, educate communities to
eliminate stigma and shame and advocate for immediate action in
combating the pandemic.

I’m writing to you today to ask for your support as I walk the 5k
(3.1 mi) route and raise much needed funds for HIV and AIDS
prevention, services and advocacy in Oregon and Southwest Washington.

Your donation will help Cascade AIDS Project (CAP) continue their
important work in our community:

Please help me reach my goal of $200.00 by making a donation today;
any amount helps! Make checks payable to Cascade AIDS Project, or
donate to me online at www.cascadeaids.org. Your donation will make
a difference in the lives of individuals and families affected by
HIV and AIDS. Thank you for your support!

Warmest Regards,
Colbie Van Eynde

The fall is here and like many people the summer flew by in a flash! I don’t want to lament the summer that has gone by, but I do want to honor the fall that is here. I love fall!

The leaves will start to change. The plants will start to green up again. I will have an excuse to curl up on the couch with my hotty wife and read. Soccer Saturdays will start with their blustering windy beginnings and hot chocolate ends.

I know that not everyone likes the weather changing. At the same time it is going to happen regardless of what we do so lets embrace it! I would love to hear everyone’s fall favorites.

We have GREAT neighbors.  Actually, FABULOUS neighbors.  And I can say this with conviction. 

This late spring, Todd and I along with our good friends/neighbors, Taryn and Judson, decided we need to get to know our neighborhood community better.  On the street we live on, Maple Avenue, there tends to be a pretty constant flow of walkers.  Some we know, some we do not.  So we decided to start a weekly, casual, family friendly gathering in our front yards on Maple Avenue in order to meet these walkers, flag them down, and to just hang out with our neighbors.  Not only would good conversation with us keep these neighbors gathered, but also a featured cocktail to quench their thirst.  And on our first night of doing so, thanks to the fabulous pitcher of margaritas us 4 shared, we officialy named our group…C.O.M.A., which stands for Cocktails on Maple Avenue. 

Since then, there were I believe 7 more C.O.M.A. meetings.  One a week, usually on a Friday,  from the first week of summer (June 21st) to Labor Day Weekend (with a couple skipped meetings due to schedule conflicts or the threat of rain).  Our first C.O.M.A. meeting was with only us 4 founding members.  Unbelievably, NO WALKERS came by that evening!  But each week since the beginning, the C.O.M.A. “membership” grew due more to word of mouth than by grabbing someone passing by.  At least 1 new person came each week.  And soon, one neighbor, Rusty, hooked us up with a Cocktail Flag to sail on the day of C.O.M.A. so that we knew which house it would be held at that evening!

I have come to know that I have some lovely, entertaining, delightful, and very fun neighbors of all ages.  I feel lucky to have them all as my neighbors.  I am happy they have gotten to know my children better.  I know they will look out for my family’s safety and I will do the same for theirs.  This is a wonderful community I live in.  Thank you to all who came to C.O.M.A., whether it is was one time or many times.  I truly appreciate you all taking the time to say hi, to get to know each other a little better and of course, to have a cocktail on Maple Avenue!

So (in no particular order and sorry for any mis-spellings) here is a one last “CHEERS!” to Taryn & Judson, Vicki & Peter, Jeanne & Mike, Chelyncia & Tim, Jeff & Kathy, Liz and Jeff, Gail and Gary, Zack & Rusty, John & Kris, Dawn, Earl & Rebekkah, April, Kris E., the out-of-the-neighborhood friends who also stopped by and to my husband Todd (plus the 11 kids that come with this group!).  Til next summer!

A few months ago, I decided to get my motorcycle endorsement for my license. With the encouragement of a motorcycle loving boyfriend, and the company of a good friend, Doug Dulak of Peak Performance I signed up for a class to learn how to ride. I don’t have my own bike (yet!), but I feel like a much better passanger when riding with others, and it was so much fun! I love the feel of being on a bike – the open road, the wind in my face, the vibrant smells… the whole adventure.

I’ve recently come across a great cause that I’d like to share with you readers. Next week John and I are going to participate in RIDE FOR THE FIGHT, a benefit for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Please take a minute to check out the link above – if you’re a rider, this is a great way to do something you love AND make a difference. Or you might just want to attend the BBQ at Blue Lake Park at the end. There’s even the ability to make a donation, if you aren’t a motorcycle enthusiast or if you can’t attend the event.

We’d love to see you there! I’ll be the one in my new motorcycle jacket (a fantastic birthday gift from John) on the back of a beautiful CBR 929!

-Jenny

My family and I just got back from a quick visit to my Dad’s in Ocean Shores, WA  the other weekend.  We boated, we fished, we cooked smores over a fire, we went to the beach and had a fabulous time.  But one thing that stood out to me on our visit, was the glowing effect that took over my Dad, Le, and his wife, Lois as they spoke of their volunteer work they do at the North Beach PAWS.  These two are dog lovers, but I swear, they are even more so after volunteering here at the no-kill shelter.  Their smiles beam as they speak of the dogs that have touched their hearts. 

I learned of Satch, a wolfhound mix, who is up for adoption.  He sounds smart.  Wicked smart.  He not only knows how to open gate latches, but he plays soccer and will pass the soccer ball.  If he doesn’t pass the soccer ball right back to you, he goes and gets it to do it right.  This sounds fabulous!  His soccer skills will definitely out-shine his escape artist talent and find him a good home.

From poop pick-up, interior re-design, kicking or throwing the ball around, socializing the dogs, to building a “freedom fence” to supply the dogs with a spacious outdoor play area, my Dad and Lois along with the other volunteers at the North Beach PAWS need to be recognized and HONORED.  PAWS educates the community, promotes spaying and neutering of cats and dogs, seeks justice for animals who have been abused and provides a welcoming shelter for cats and dogs needing homes.  The list goes on. 

Freedom Fence Complete!

Puppies Waiting to Play!

Thank you for making these animals lives that much better.  Thank you for loving them and giving them the respect a living creature on our earth deserves.  I feel the pride radiate through your stories and know that the North Beach PAWS have some very special people supporting them.  I cannot volunteer alongside, but definitely hope to take a personal tour alongside 2 awesome volunteers and plan on being a supportive donator through monetary donations and/or providing items based off of their wishlist.  Anyone interested in helping the North Beach PAWS can do so off of their website.

My life has been greatly impacted by women.  When I reflect on the people who have helped me to become the person I am today and who continue to impact me, the large majority are women.  The two women who are participating in our experiment here at inhonorof deserve so much respect for everything they do for the people around them.  They are amazing ladies who firmly believe the world can be a better place and don’t even realize that it already is because of their efforts.

In my usual way, I started to doing some research on who is currently trying to honor women already and found some great resources.  The site that captured my interest the most is www.honoringwomenworldwide.org.  I was very moved by their definition of honor, “Honoring exudes showing profound respect, deep care, and high regard.”  What a wonderful place to be where more people respect, care and show high regard.

I don’t have a formal challenge for our readers, but I think it would be great if you could focus your random acts of kindness for the next few weeks with thoughts towards honoring everyone, but especially the women in your life that are sometime overlooked or taken for granted.  I know that I will.

OK – if you’re anything like me, sometimes you just need that perfect song to get you ready for a new day… or just the right sound to get your house cleaned… or something to get the blood flowing when you feel the need or urge for a good dance party, wherever you are.

In comes Wallace Brown – the man who introduced me to the music of 90’s rock band (sounding and looking like they’re from the 80’s), THE DARKNESS. THANK YOU WALLACE!

Not only can I rock out to these songs (and believe me I do! – “I believe in a Thing called Love” is actually my morning alarm clock), but I recently looked up some of their videos on youtube… and let me tell you – PURE ENJOYMENT.

So here are my top five favorite songs from THE DARKNESS (so far at least!)… check them out and let me know what you think!

#1:
Knockers

#2:
Girlfriend

#3:
I Believe In a Thing Called Love

#4:
Love On the Rocks With No Ice

#5:
Hazel Eyes

Sincere compliments can do amazing things for people.  For me, one single compliment is bringing me back to my spin class after a long vacation from it. 

Since riding the STP, I have slacked in going back to the spin class at the gym.  I’ve been going to the gym, just not to spin class since my training is complete.  Well, I finally went to the class this week and let me tell you, I was SUCKIN’ air, big time.  It hurt.  My legs were like cement, my form felt weak, I felt slouched over with a wussy core and it was just plain hard.  I was done with the class mentally, way before time was up.  I was just constantly hacking myself  in my mind, annoyed that I had lost my biking endurance and form and just felt lame.  It was a boxing match in my head and Negative Nancy had won. 

And magically, here is where the compliment came…after class the instructor and I crossed paths and he took the moment to stop me and my badgering little buddy in me head, to tell me….”You have Great Form.” 

What?  Great form?  Really….Ok…..Cool.  Oh ya, that’s right.  I’ll be back next week.

Ofcourse, like for everything else in life, there is the argument against the positive.  In this case, it is said that compliments can be detrimental, unhelpful, unconstructive especially if they are quick to be said and usually about appearance and not something else with more substance regarding the person.  It is argued that there is an effective way to compliment.  Some people simply don’t care for them. 

I understand it all, but sometimes it pays off to just be “dumb and happy”, skip the annalytical pieces of a compliment and surf the happy wave.   I side more with ”The Compliment Guys”.  They are 2 guys who attend Purdue University who decided to actively give out compliments on campus, just trying to spread some cheer.  They just finished with a 10-city Brightside Tour supported by Kodak aimed completely at giving compliments!  I love it!  

“I can live for two months on a good compliment.”  Mark Twain

I get frustrated with all of the negative news.  We all know that immeasurable good is done everyday, but it never makes the news.  So for those of you that want to hear some good news, keep on reading for a few stories that inspired me today.

1.  An Arizona women has a kindey donated to her from the man who has been driving her in his taxi to her dialysis appointments.  Are you kidding me, I mean I try to give blood, maybe some food or some school supples, but a kidney!!!  That is for real.

2.  A Lady’s home is about to go into forclosure so she starts to bake cakes and sells them.  She has a huge demand so another dude steps in to help her, and it works.  Amazing, I bet thousands of people all over the country are doing amazing positive things to keep their homes.  I want to hear more about that!

3.  Sometimes I worry about high energy prices and how it will effect the future.  While I am worrying, lots of people are out there trying to figure out how to help.  Check out these funky, but still potentially viable alternative energy sources.

These are all stories from www.happynews.com which is just one of many positive news sites out there.  I would love to hear more personal happy news stories, like Jen’s ongoing acts or random kindness.  I just feel so energized, go ahead and try it you just might like it!

**** Check out the COMMENTS to see how this progresses ****

Goal: To perform a minimum of one RANDOM ACT OF KINDNESS each day for 10 days and share them with In Honor Of Readers.  And HOPEFULLY to be entertained and inspired by reading about your OWN random acts of kindness -

post some comments on your OWN random acts of kindness for ten days… it’s FUN! 

Submit a comment or email me at Jenny@inhonorof.com!

Progress: Complete!

Last week I found the most amazing plant for my new office.  Walking through Home Depot (where I got quite a steal of a deal!) I came across a beautiful Yucca Plant.  Or maybe it’s a yucca tree?  Maybe a bush?  ANYWAY… as you can tell, I’m not much of a greenthumb, but I knew that THIS plant was going to turn my normal office… into a KICK ASS office. 

What I did NOT fully comprehend was the fact that this little addition may be a bit hard to maneuver alone.  So there I was… my newly purchased prize, standing outside my Honda Accord in my dress and high heels, and a 5-foot-tall plant which felt like it weighed more than me (which I assure you is unfortunately not possible, no matter how many water aerobic classes I’ve attended with my friend [and dedicated workout partner] Colbie).

On my third attempt to lift the monstrosity through my car window (the enormous palm-like frands had also been unaccounted for in my plan for getting it to the office), a stranger parking across the lot from me transformed into my very own hero.  With a smile and a laugh, he asked if it was my first time at Home Depot.  When I assured him it was not (slightly afronted… I mean, HEY!  This was at least my 5th or 6th time in my nearly 30 years of life) and began to attempt a fourth effort, he asked if he could help.  And right then and there… I fell in love.  Not with this friendly stranger (don’t worry, John!), but with the whole concept of random acts of kindness. 

I’m telling you… being the recipent of a recent random act of kindness is the most wonderful sensation.  This single experience not only changed the outome of my day, but it reinforced my faith in mankind.  I know… I know… you probably think I’m exaggerating… but I truly feel it.  And if I can feel so inspired, I know that by performing my own random acts of kindness I can revive that faith for others.

So here’s my plan, and my challenge to those of you dear readers, who choose to tackle this as well.  For TEN DAYS I want to post about a random act of kindess I’ve performed that day. (well a pre-planned, random act of kindness, I guess).  Each day, I’m going to submit a comment to this post and let you know what it was that I did.  And I would LOVE to read about the good deeds you’re out there performing.  Remember, big or small – it’s an inspiration to all of us readers. 

I can’t wait to fill you in tomorrow on DAY ONE and I can’t wait to hear what is happening in your own world!

Love,

Jenny

And does anyone know how often to  water a yucca plant/tree/bush?

I know I could write this as a comment to Jenny Johnson’s Disneyland’s Eco-Efforts post, however, I could not stand the chance that my comment would be missed by others.  Therefore, I decided to dedicate my newest honor post to Jenny as she has changed my life for the better! 

Thank you Jenny for challenging me to stop using paper and plastic grocery bags as I have not only completed the challenge of using re-usable totes for 21-days, but have continued it forward as it has now become second nature to bring my own bags.  Granted, frustrating times at the grocery checkout lines have come where I realized I did not pack my bags and instead re-loaded all the bought groceries into the giant cart to only unload them individually into the car and unload them again individually in my house.  But the thing is, even though I was annoyed, I still did not waste another bag by taking it home from the grocer!  I’ve tried this re-usable tote thing in the past and never followed through with it.  Now, I cannot imagine going back to paper or plastic!  Thank you again, Jenny!

Faboosh (for Fabulous).  Crackalackin’ (as said by Marty the Zebra in the movie Madagascar).  Fo shizzle (Snoop Dog).  Redunkulous (for Rediculous). I love them all.   

I am one who likes to make up words when I am in convo with someone (I totally thought I made up convo, but then found it online).  Usually it is when I am talking with my husband, in a normal conversation and I am spitting out words and wind up making up a word (Not always on purpose.   It is just what comes out sometimes, when I am on a roll and my words keep flowing, but my mouth speaks faster than my brain is thinking for a brief moment) and my husband always stops me and raises an eyebrow to the word I just used.  My simple and logical response to him is,  “Use your intelligence”.  He should be able to figure out my word, my point, and what I mean because I totally know what I am trying to say and in my head at the moment it makes absolute sense and is an absolute perfect word to be used.  So….In Honor Of people who like to make up words, I want to give some credit where credit is due.  Made Up words don’t always make sense, but they make me smile!

Thoughts?  And other favorites?

Hello dear readers!  I just wanted to take a quick minute to encourage you to check out our “Past Challenges” tab!  We’ve had some great challenges out there – maybe you’d like to join in, as did our recent readers The Gresos when they read about the reusable tote challange.  Or even if you don’t want to join in, just leave a comment – kudos to someone for trying, or a helpful hint for participants to complete the challenge.

We want to hear from YOU!  And keep checking back in with us… we’ve got a great challenge that’s a-coming…  it’s going to be pretty amazing!  Get ready to LET THE WORLD KNOW… we’re ready to give, inspire AND honor!  How about you?

-Jenny

I love this blog and I think about it all of the time!  What we are hoping to accomplish is really exciting and I plan to see it through until the end.  What that is ultimately we will just have to wait and see!

Lately, I have been thinking about the word Honor and what it means to me.  Thomas Jefferson said, “Nobody can acquire honor by doing what is wrong”.  Ofcourse societies and personal perceptions of wrong and right change over time so the honorable action today has changed from the honorable actions of two hundred years ago.  At the same time, I know without a doubt I would like to do what is right whenever I can.

Thinking about how to be honorable in my own life is a challenge.  We have so many responsibilities that pull us in different directions.  Frankly, it can be hard at times.  I really appreciate what Walter Lippmann said “He has honor if he holds himself to an ideal of conduct though it is inconvenient, unprofitable, or dangerous to do so.”  I have confirmed for myself that I want to live an honorable life and Lippmann’s words seem to point in the direction that can sometimes lead.  I must be prepared to make inconvenient, unprofitable, even dangerous choices.  I am prepared to do so!

Finally the words of Lao Tzu helped me to realize one of the critical necessities to finding personal honor, “fail to honor people; they fail to honor you…”.  I see so much in our world the makes me believe the honor is alive and in my next posts I will point to them.  I would also enjoy hearing anyone’s feelings about personal honor and honoring others.

On her 10th Wedding Anniversary our friend wanted to Honor her husband, Judson.  So, without further ado….

My husband & I are celebrating our 10 year wedding anniversary on July 18th.  When I take a step back from the buzz of every day life, I realize just how lucky I am to have him for a husband.

 Judson is a super hero… seriously.  He may not have any super human powers, but in every other way he qualifies.  Not only does he risk his life in his job as a firefighter working long shifts, but on his “off” days he single-handedly takes care of our two beautiful girls (ages 2 1/2 yrs & 7 months).  And somewhere in between his two jobs he finds time to do all the cooking, cleaning, all the yard work including the fruit/vegetable garden, build a shed & chicken coop, ski, tile the bathroom, remodel Isabel’s bedroom, pay the bills, fix anything & everything that needs to be fixed, brew delicious beer, be a sounding board for all my woes, bikes, be an award winning Political Action Chair for IAFF Local 452, sing/dance unabashedly to The Wiggles with our girls, the list goes on & on & on…  Not to mention that he is amazing at Scrabble, has a crazy memory for even the smallest of details, is a fantastic story teller, can answer most questions on Jeopardy, and knows just enough about a lot of stuff.  He is also a very caring person
and will go out of his way to help people whenever he can. 
Yup, total super hero material.
 
Judson, it seems like yesterday that we were on the beach in Maui and said “I do” to the hippie preacher man. 
The love I feel for you has only grown deeper over the last 10 years. 
Not only are you my best friend, but you are the love of my life. 
Happy anniversary, babe.  I love you!

This last weekend Todd and I, plus 2 friends of ours participated in the 30th Annual Seattle to Portland Bike Ride along side 9,996 other riders.  So, In Honor Of the 10,000 bicyclists out on the road for the STP, I want to give a Whoot Whoot!  A Yee Haw!  A Hell Ya!… for pedaling those pedals for the 202 miles in 2 days and some doing it in just 1 day. 

It was an awesome experience to see riders of all ages (age 5 or possibly younger to 85 or higher), of all body types, on all different types of bikes (unicycles, mountain bikes, road bikes, tandem bikes) all voluntarily signing up for good HEALTH!  The energy is positive as this article in the Seattle Times presents so well, the STP Support Team from beginning to end is faboosh (my new favorite word for fabulous, thank you Perez), and the best part of all for my experience was doing it with my husband, Todd, and friends, Judson and John.  They kept me laughing, pedaling and attempting to sing along to Judson’s 1-man mobile karaoke band.  I not only want to do it again, I am excited to do it again.  Any volunteers for babysitting next year during the training? 

And I MUST say thank you to all of our babysitters, Jenny, Ashley and Nana Jill, who came to watch our babes while we trained and rode our booties off, thank you to my kids for supporting their parents in having a fun adventure together, thank you to the STP staff for all the cliff bars, water and porta-potties a girl could want, and thank you to my Facebook entourage who followed me on my journey through my statuses and kept cheering me on through their comments!  I highly recommend the STP to all, but just don’t take my spot!

The joy of having kids also brings many bugs your way….the germ bugs.  For the past week plus, I’ve been battling the family sickness, dare I say flu, and have ben trying to hold this house together as Todd and the kids have been sick.  (I have yet to catch the demon-germ!!)  Therefore, I have slacked a bit in promoting this site and honoring what’s great around this world.  I will however, be back on track soon!  The STP is this weekend and Todd and I are still planning on doing it (he better get healthy and not give it to me) and I am sure I am going to find plenty to honor on that 202 mile trip on my bike.  It will probably start with honoring the incredible invention of the car!

A quick THANK YOU to all of you, family, friends, and the un-known site visitors, who have helped spread the word of our blog!  It is exciting and yet daunting, when trying to get the word out.  Sometimes it seems too intimidating to continue on thinking “why are we doing this, who’s really going to read this?”, so I want to let you all know, I really appreciate the help and support in passing out this website address and for the words of encouragement.

And just a reminder…..a challenge is still left open!  Anyone want to sign up to be the 6th and last person of the challenge to watch the President’s weekly video address?  Anyone?

Even though there are millions of tributes to Michael Jackson, I still felt like posting my part.  He was awesome.  I loved him as a kid and he made an impact in my love for music.  Here is one special memory I will carry for Michael, my sister, my dad, and Twin Spits, WA.

1982, THRILLER was released and not just on MTV, but on the regular network.  That means I was 7 years old.  I have this great memory of the debut of the music video.  My sister is 3 years older than I, so back in 1982 that means she would have been 10 years old.  So here is this 7 and 10 year old, hanging with their Dad at these rustic cabins at Twin Spits, WA (our vacation retreat we’d go with him) and the grand debut of Thriller is going to played late that night.  I swear it was a midnight release cause it seemed like I stayed up so late, but it very well could have been only 9pm.  Regardless, it was cool.  I was staying up late with my sister who I idoled.  And I knew it was very important as she was really excited to see this video thing.  So, here we are, Dad asleep in the next room, my sister and I snuggled up close together, late at night, watching a small, grainy, rabbit eared (possibly black and white) non-cable TV, all to see the magic of THRILLER.  It was amazing.

Here is one more tribute to Michael Jackson, performed by Filipino prisoners.  Yes, prisoners.  A choreographer was hired and dancing was encouraged in their exercise program.  In 2007, they danced to Thriller and on June 27th, 2009 they did a longer tribute to Michael Jackson .  Both videos are posted on YouTube.  I love it as it reminds me we are all people, some living in harder circumstances, but often with the same love for music.

Any great MJ thoughts or memories for you?

Goal:  To get 6 people to watch President Obama’s weekly video address for 6 weeks!  Why 6 people?  I’m scared I won’t even get 6, so I will be excited if I do!  Why 6 weeks?  Why not? Join in by submitting a comment below!

Progress: 7 out of 6!!!  The Goal was Met plus one more!  Thank you for joining in!
Remember, that although my goal of getting 6 people to join this is in no way a “closed” challenge – feel free to join our challenge still by submitting a comment, and following our progress through everyone’s 6 weeks of video watching.

In our high-tech, Internet savvy society, President Obama has pledged to keep us updated weekly through a video address posted online.  When I heard he was going to do this, I thought it was so great.  Here is a President, whether you like him or not, who is doing something new, reaching out to this ever-expanding Internet society.  Fabulous!  However, have I yet, in the last 23 weeks watched one video?  No!  Not one. 

As an American Citizen who does not watch the news, and only catches articles on Yahoo! and the Associated Press application on my phone, I feel the responsibility to finally stop and listen to our President.  Maybe I’m getting older and wiser.  I heard that happens.  Regardless, our government does a lot for me, maybe I don’t like everything they do, but I know I am safe and I know I can give them something precious of mine.  My time.  Whether I agree or disagree, I need to hear him first!

Therefore, I now want to honor President Obama’s Internet effort and challenge myself to GIVE 5 minutes a week for 6 weeks dedicated to the President’s weekly video address.  That’s it!  The weekly address is usually just under 5 minutes long.  And I can do it anytime during the week as it is posted online to our avail.  That is only 6 times, 30 minutes of my life over the course of 42 days.  That’s nothing!  I can do it.

And I even think I’ll make this a **Challenge** to all out there.  Anyone ready to dedicate that 1/2 hour of time over the course of 6 weeks to the President of the United States?  Thoughts?  If you decide to take this challenge on, please submit a comment and follow my progress and others’ too by coming back and reading the replies!

Well the ladies (Jessy and Jenny) say that we need a bit more testosterone on the site.  I aim to please!  Now, I know that many of you ladies out there have discovered video games and I am happy for it.  This honor, however, is for the games of old, the lowly quarter eating machine.  The coin operated video arcade games of yesteryear.  The dark dungeons and sticky corner marts that us men of a certain age hunted down with glee (we wished you ladies were there, but we never saw you).  Everyone knows Donkey Kong, Galaga and Ms. Pac-man, but oh there were so many more.

Our parents were sure that no value would come of those quarters plugged into space.  Little did they know us computer kids would inherit the earth.  Our hand eye coordination was beyond belief and we could react in moments to the spinning of a barrel or the quick turns of a chasing ghost.  Our endless pursuit of one more quarter and another high score led us to set goals high and achieve them at all cost.  If you want to watch a great example of someone striving for their goal; check out The King of Kong: A Fist Full of Quarters.

So here is to the lowly video game still under attack.  I gave you my quarters, you inspired me towards so much and now I honor you for your greatness.  I would love to hear your arcade story, just make sure that it has a quarter or a Chucky Cheese token involved!!!

I came upon this link to a youtube video that brought chills to my bones.  Good chills, very good chills.  After watching the video I had to learn more and started google searching like mad.  And so, in honor of Gregg Breinberg and his talent of teaching music, I want more people to see this chorus of his sing.  Granted, 100’s of thousands have already seen a video or two of this group, but this is one to be shared constantly. 

As the public school system in this country continues to have budget cuts and art programs are erased, I hope a video like this will inspire us all to say and give “our 2 cents worth” to keep these programs alive.  Just watch this teacher and the children.  They are glowing, learning, doing something different and from the looks of it… LOVING it!

In this video Staten Island’s PS22 Chorus sings Lady GaGa’s Just Dance.  You will not regret the few minutes of downtime.  There are other videos of the PS22 Chorus singing  Stevie Nicks’ Landslide, Tori Amos’ Flavor, etc., etc.  The list of their vocal accomplishments goes on. Also worth checking is their blog which shows the incredible work, adventures and opportunities these children are having! 

Thank you Gregg!  These children are amazing.  You however are incredible.

Updated 7/22/2009: we now have 8 fantastic households accepting this challenge!  Check out the comments below!

Goal: To get 7 households to use earth-friendly reusable grocery totes for 21 days.  If you’d like to join me, submit a comment or email me at Jenny@inhonorof.com!

Progress: 7 of 7

Thank you to everyone who joined in.  Remember, that although my goal of getting 7 (my favorite number) households to help this is in no way a “closed” competition – feel free to join our challenge still by submitting a comment, and following our progress through our 21 days by reading the comments!

On Tom Sawyer's Island in Disneyland

I just returned from a trip I’ve been looking forward to for ages – SISTER’S WEEKEND!  My sister (Pam) is probably my favorite person in this world.  She’s supportive, inspiring, kind-hearted and beautiful.  I promise that as InHonorOf continues to grow, that you will read many more stories of our adventures (like the time she stepped in dog poop and I mistakenly thought it was our missing Halloween Chocolate Bar.  Yes – she found a four-year-old-Jenny-Johnson eating dog poop… with a spoon.  Or how all of my emergency room visits the first 10 years of my life were all mysteriously and closely-related to Pam).  Many of my most favorite memories of our childhood though come from the place where “dreams do come true”… DISNEYLAND.  So it was no hard feat to decide on a destination this year for a weekend adventure… the most magical place on earth!

Pam would argue that the best part of Disneyland is the moment you walk through the gate, and are looking at the train station above you, before you enter the park.  I, however, would defend though the magic of those first footsteps on mainstreet… music playing, flowers blooming, and churros nearby!  There is something about Disneyland that is timeless… and our best memories live untouched in this magical world – favorite rides, favorite foods, favorite sites.

Our FAVORITE ride this year - SPLASH MOUNTAIN (Pam in Front, Me in Back)

Yet on this trip, we realized that there has indeed been change unfolding in Disneyland. . . and a change we were happy to see!  I am happy to report that all throughout the park, Disney was modernizing and getting ECO-FRIENDLY.  Recycling bins, t-shirts printed with eco-friendly dyes, store bags made with post-consumer, recycled paper / plastic, green kitchens, and items such as a whole line of products supporting the  Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund (www.disneyconservation.com). 

On this trip, I purchased some of their reusable totes (see picture below).   And I’m going to USE them! They say that a new habit takes 21 days to form.  Well that’s exactly what this Disney-Fan(fanatic?)-For-Life is going to do.  For the next 21 days, I am only going to go grocery shopping with my reusable tote.  No excuses.  If I forget my tote, it’s either A) carry it in my arms or B) wait until I have them with me to go again (plus, this gives me a good excuse to eat mac ‘n cheese at home on those crap-there’s-no-food-in-my-fridge evenings!)

My Reusable Grocery Tote! (Magical - because it's from Disneyland!)

In honor of Disneyland’s new Eco-friendly Efforts… I’m going to make one myself.  After all, just a little change can make a BIG difference.  Now…who’s with me?

-Jenny

A neighbor friend was inspired to do an Honoree Page for her husband, Mike, and we gladly posted it for her.  And so, without further ado….

Happy Birthday to the best husband and father we could ever ask for!!!

Interview with Jillian “JiJi” (age 4) and Ellie (age 7) 
First answers are from Jillian, second are from Ellie

                          1.  What is something Daddy always says to you? 
“Show us your muscles”  “I love you”

2.  What makes Daddy happy? 
“Seeing me”   “Being with the family”

3.  What makes Daddy sad? 
“When he has to leave for work before we get up”  “When I don’t pass”

4.  How does Daddy make you laugh? 
“Body slams”   “When he’s silly”

5.  What was your Daddy like as a child? 
“Playing outside all the time like he is now”   “Always trying to build his muscles”

6.  How old is your Daddy? 
“39″  “40″

7.  How tall is Daddy? 
“10 inches”  “The top of my height measurer”

8.  What is his favorite thing to do? 
“Take us to school”  “Take us to Dairy Queen”

9.  What does he do when you are not around? 
“Goes on bike rides”  “Takes Mommy out to lunch”

10.  If your dad becomes famous, what will it be for? 
“That he won’t have to work anymore!”  “For being the best Dad ever and the best doctor”

11.  What is your Daddy really good at? 
“Doing laps on his bike”  “I would say everything”
 

Mike Farber, on this your fortieth birthday, I wanted you to know how much you are treasured and loved.  Long before kids came along, you were always there for me and you always accepted me just as I was.  We were so young when we met and got married, I am amazed what a great choice I made and how right on I was about how amazing you were and would become.  You work so hard, and provide so much.  Not just material stuff, but heart, compassion, strength and perseverance.  I have never felt anything less than completely loved by you.  Thank you for such a precious gift, and for our crazy happy life.  

Happy Birthday!!!
Lots of love, Jeanne, Ellie and Jillian

Ok, I don’t have a personal cycling coach, however, this lady fit that role for me even though she probably doesn’t even know it.  I just found out that my cycle instructor at the gym is retiring and today was her last class.  The horror!  I know, I know…boo hoo, right?  But really, she is an amazing instructor and motiviated me to kick my own butt in class which in turn gave me the best workout every Monday morning. 

I’ve never been a bike person, more of a runner.  I don’t even have a road bike, just a super-duper awesome pink cruiser and a 16 yr. old mountain bike that makes it out of the shed maybe once a year.  But then I registered to ride in the STP, a 202-mile bike ride from Seattle to Portland, this July with my husband and suddenly I needed to become a bike person.  Last January, with no road bike at hand, I dedicated my Monday mornings to instructor, Erin.  And with a huge thank you to her, I enjoy cycle classes, I now know how to use my core during cycling and I constantly remind myself to drop my shoulders, relax the top,  and push, pull baby! Push, pull!

I think I have become a bike person!  Going out on the road on a real (borrowed) bike is so much more enjoyable due to her class and instruction.  Thank you Erin!  You are the best.  Congratulations on your retirement!

My mind took a break, a hiatus, from the forward thinking of “in honor of” and it sucks!
When I did my first honoree post for my mom, I was instantly thinking of what I could do next for an honoree page.  So soon after I felt like honoring smiles.  Guess what?  I was then excited to do another one!  It was a healthy contagious thought process in which I would think about what to honor next, instead of getting caught up in thinking about all the things I didn’t accomplish today as a stay-at-home mom, or thinking about an never ending pile of laundry, or the next grocery shopping trip. 
But then it happened.  The un-needed hiatus from positive thinking.  I let my mind go back to the crazy daily thoughts that un-satisfyingly fill up my mind.  So it is time for me to consciously change my thoughts and bring back the exploding positive power of thinking about what is good.  And at first it has to be a conscious choice to start.  But then, believe me, it is really interesting how your mind then starts to continually focus on the good, not the bad, as you purposely train your thought process.   I am so ready to begin again.

“Change your thoughts and change your world.” – Norman Vincent Pearle

UPDATE:  GOAL COMPLETED!

Check out the comments on the original post, and feel free to share some comments of your own!

I wanted to share with you all a few pictures of some of those who were inspired to join in and make the world a bit cleaner… by something as small as picking up 30 pieces of trash.

I set two goals: first to complete my own 31-piece pick up (COMPLETED!), and to inspire 9 others to go out and do the same thing in your neighborhood!  I’m happy to report that 6 people have joined in:  THANK YOU to Kristin, John, Hayley, Matt, Todd & Jessy!  If you’d like to help, please post a comment on my original post saying you’d like to join in!  I’ll keep the numbers updated, and if you have any pictures, send them to me at:  Jenny@inhonorof.com and I’d be happy to post them! Help us LET THE WORLD KNOW…

Remember… even a small contribution makes quite a difference.

Jenny

Kristin & Hayley - inhonorof pickup!

Hayley, Me & Matt on picking up litter on the beach

John, Hayley, Kristin, & Matt figuring out our game plan...

Hayley - desperately hoping the wind won't send the mystery underware flying into her face

05/26/2009: Goal is Met!

Great Job and a big THANK YOU for participating!

Goal: To get 10 People to pick up 30 pieces of litter.  Join in by submitting a comment!  If you get any pictures, send them to me at Jenny@inhonorof.com

Progress: 10 of 10

I’m going to the beach this weekend.

I am going to pick up 30 pieces of litter.

I told  John about this, and he says he’ll pick up 30 pieces while we’re there too.

(Not to be oudone by my boyfriend, I have therefore increased my personal goal to 31 pieces…)

I would like each of our readers to take a moment to think about friendship.   What defines true friendship for you?   For me, it’s not sending a yearly holiday card to those on your ever-increasing list.   You don’t have to be mirrored images of thought or personality to form a true friendship.   It will not be defined by time, nor distance.   True friendship exists in those relationships where you feel accepted and confident with yourself… your TRUE self.   You are loved for your honest thoughts and your raw emotions, and in turn, you recipricate that strength and love.

This past weekend I had the opportunity to spend a weekend in Vegas with three of my dearest friends.  Now I know some readers may think – “Really?  Jenny’s going to post something about a weekend in Vegas on this website?!”  – perhaps it seems unworthy or doesn’t quite fit our plan to honor the world, and point out the good in the world… while set in what’s often deemed as  “Sin City.” But I beg to differ…

True Friendship - Sarai, Ashleigh, Me & Whitney

On Saturday morning, Sarai, Ashleigh, and I set out at 5:00 am to surprise Whitney with a birthday trip to Vegas.  (Well, when I say “set out” it was more like at 5:00 am I was asking my boyfriend/our chauffer John to boost me up to Sarai’s window because she wasn’t answering her phone or the door, and I was 99% sure she had fallen back asleep AFTER my get-out-of-bed-we’re-on-our-way-or-I’m-going-to-have-to-kick-you-in-the-shin phone call).  We pulled off our surprise with the help of many people, most especially Whitney’s boyfriend, Orlando.   Whitney was speechless.   We helped her pack her bags, and then drove to the airport where our weekend started.  Our weekend was filled with  laughter, surprise, honesty, adventure, a few tears, hugs, bewilderment, picture-taking, dancing, relaxing, support, fun, respect… and a whole lotta sushi.   And did I mention laughter?!  I am going to steal some of Whitney’s words when I say that it is within this special friendship that the four of us have formed that I never feel more “myself” when I am with these ladies, and it gives me the strength and awareness to be that person in the rest of my life – with confidence.  This, my dear readers, is TRUE FRIENDSHIP.

I would like to challenge you all to think about your own friendships, and take a moment to honor those.  Maybe it’s just a quick email to say “thank you for being a friend” (I know you are all singing the “Golden Girls” Theme Song in your head as you read that, right?)  or setting up a time to get together with those special people in your world.   Maybe this is a good time to call a friend that you haven’t spoken with in months, but think about often.  Maybe it’s time to do something to honor your friendships – from a phone call, to a surprise trip to Vegas.  Perhaps this post might inspire you… to honor those you love… which (in turn) inspires others…

Let the World Know…

Jenny

**And to my wonderful friends: Sarai, Ashleigh, and Whitney – I love you all, and the bond we’ve formed.  Thank You.  It is truly an honor to be your friend.**

This is going to be a short, but sweet one.  I love smiles!  We all know they can be contagious. 

So, In HONOR of smiles, I am going to give out more of them. 

Especially to people I don’t know as I walk by them on the street, at the grocery store and at the gym.  This week my goal will be to give a smile to everyone I pass!  I’ve tried this before and it is harder than you think.  I’ve got to look them in the eye and smile.  Wish me luck!

“I like smiling. Smiling is my favorite.” -Buddy the Elf
Thank you Taryn for reminding me of this fabulous quote!

As Mother’s Day is upon us, I am so happy to make my first Honoree Page dedicated to my Mom, Jacqueline. 

Until I had children of my own, I never, I mean NEVER knew how much love a mom could have for her child. It is an indescribable amount. Nor did I know how tough being a mom could be!  Granted, it is the best job I have ever had, but even with the easiest of kids, some days are long.  How did my mom do it as a single parent?  And she didn’t just “do it”, she did it with love, lots of it.

See, I am a December baby.  And as I have just come to find out, December babies get lost in the holidays. The funny thing is, I just turned 33 last December.  That means during my first 30 or so years of life I never realized my birthday was not as special as Christmas.  I know, shocking, right?  Just recently has my birthday been “lost” in the excitement of holiday parties and christmas shopping.  Don’t get me wrong, my husband, kids and family do a fantastic job of making me feel loved.  What I’m saying is parties are scheduled every weekend, food has to be cooked, gifts shopped for, and “Oh!  That’s right,  Happy Birthday!”;   However, never as a kid did I feel like my birthday was even close to Christmas.  I always had my special day, even in the hectic December schedules of the mid-70’s, 80’s, and 90’s. 

So in HONOR of my mom, I am inspired to have my kids know they are very special to me.

As a mom to two of the most amazing people on this earth, my daughter and son, I know I can always do better for them.  Thanks to my incredible mom, I am inspired to do better than my best in raising my kids.  I will read them an extra story, I will hug them that extra hug, and make sure I tell them I love them every day.

I love nature.  Just being outside re-energizes me and makes me feel more alive.  Living in the Northwest we are spoiled will beautiful mountains, oceans, deserts, meadows, rivers and more.  I know that I want my children to be able to experience the same wonders of nature I have. 
 
My strong feelings coupled with the hope they give, compels me to Honor The Columbia Land Trust.   
Not only do I give to this wonderful organization, they also inspire me and give back ten fold.  The employees and members who help to further their mission of conserving signature landscapes and vital habitat together with the landowners and communities of the Columbia River region are amazing.  Their desire to work together with the people who own and appreciate the land is commendable. 

One of my first memories, when I was just a babe, is of rain falling on my face.  I lived on the Oregon Coast so I imagine it rained a lot!  I loved that feeling and will always appreciate the life giving force of rain that falls from the sky.  Now living close to the Columbia River knowing that the rain accumulates in this great vein of energy is amazing.   If you have a passion for the outdoors I would love to read your stories, please share.  If you would like to help support the Columbia Land Trust, check out their site and give them a call, you won’t regret it.

Todd is coaxing Jenny and I to just do it.  This may not be the final product for the website we have planned, but that does not mean we can’t start our Honoree Pages.  And so Todd is right (he doesn’t always hear that from us).  We are going to start posting our Honoree Pages dedicated to Giving to the world, or Inspiring us to do something for a positive change, or simply to Honor someone, some company, or something.   THE WORLD NEEDS TO KNOW!
And if any of you reading this blog decide you would like to have an Honoree Page posted to get the word out to the world…let us know!  We are here to help.  That is our goal.

After much consideration and discussion, we have finally chosen our kick-ass LOGO.  Our contest gathered 168 different entries – which was exciting, and inspiring!  So without further ado, may I present our new logo (drumroll please…)