How many articles have you seen lately promising the best gift ideas ever? Perhaps you’ve had a few emails promising something at a great price that is sure to please anyone. Maybe you’ve searched in vain for that “perfect” gift. I have the answer you seek. No. Seriously. I know the what the best holiday gift is. The best thing to give someone at the holidays (or really anytime) is the gift of yourself. Corny? Yes. But true nonetheless. There is only one you and to the people who love you most, you are enough. Your children might be making Read More
Category: gifts
Celebrating 2 Years of Postcrossing Fun
It’s my postcrossingversary! Yes, that’s a word. At least, it was in my congratulatory email from Postcrossing. I’ve been “making the world a better place one postcard at a time” for two years now. It’s probably time for an explanation and review for those of you who don’t know what Postcrossing is and what a postcrosser like me does. About the time I started writing My Cup of Cocoa, I also signed up at Postcrossing. The website enables users from all around the world to send postcards to other users (known as postcrossers). This is done in a random way. Read More
Wearing Beautiful Words: The Faithful Merchant
Do you like beautiful words? I’d like to introduce you to The Faithful Merchant (TFM). If you like positive messages and sharing them, this is the company for you. The Faithful Merchant creates handcrafted necklaces, bracelets, apparel, tote bags, mugs, and more. Each piece sports a positive message in the form of a quote. I believe that words have power, for good and bad. The Faithful Merchant uses words for good. I recently had the opportunity to interview Alyssa Krause, owner and designer of the Faithful Merchant. She is warm, friendly, creative, and supportive. No wonder she’s creating such great Read More
If You Can Read This, Thank Your Teachers
May 8 is National Teacher Day. It’s a day to celebrate, give thanks for, and acknowledge the teachers in our lives. Our school celebrates teachers all week long. Personally, one day or even one week doesn’t seem like enough. Teachers do so much for our kids, our families, and our communities. Too often, they are given too little pay, too little credit, and too little thanks. In addition, they are frequently asked to take on issues and responsibilities way beyond their job descriptions. Nevertheless, teachers continue to work hard, champion our children, and help build and strengthen our communities. Read More