So Apparently we missed the memo. We're not getting Spring or Summer, 12 months of winter!:-( haha just kidding, but really, all this snow in mid April?!
It's not all bad, because of the snow I got took advantage of the opportunity to help out my neighbors. She's a bigger/older lady, when she was shoveling, I could see her struggle. So, I went out and helped her, or well pretty much did it myself. It only took 10 minutes, and she was so thankful!
People kept getting stuck on my hill all day, it is pretty steep. When a car would get stuck, me and my boyfriend would help them out. Most people got got out themselves, but some needed just an extra push.
Later on we went to my grandpas, and shoveled off his porch and stairs, just to make it easier for him.
I know they weren't huge acts of kindness, but hey..at least I did something on my Sunday, right? haha. Hopefully by next weekend the snow will be gone, so I can rake my moms yard like she wanted me to this weekend.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
The Kinder Generation: Donations
My boyfriend and I have been on a mission, we've been "spring cleaning" are apartment and getting rid of everything. We looked through all of our can goods and gave whatever we didn't want or had a few extra of in a box, for our local church to collect.
I went through all my clothes which I HATE to do. I always think, "wow I really like that, what if I need it for a wedding reception or something." but I made the decision to put the clothes I haven't worn in more than a year into a "vinnys bag," clothes that I wanted to donate to St. Vincent De Paul thrift store.
I must admit, I did keep a few items that I haven't worn..I just didn't have the heart to get rid of them. But there was some really nice t-shirts, sweaters, hoodies, panjama pants, and jeans in there.
It just feels good to do something really nice like that. I know people are getting use out of my things. Better than throwing away...someones wearing or using it.
I also went through all of my books and put all the ones I didn't want or have already read into the box, they mostly consisted of corny love themes. I plan on also donating these books to St. Vinny's.
It feels great to know, I basically PURGED a lot of things out of my apartments, while helping someone else out:-)
I went through all my clothes which I HATE to do. I always think, "wow I really like that, what if I need it for a wedding reception or something." but I made the decision to put the clothes I haven't worn in more than a year into a "vinnys bag," clothes that I wanted to donate to St. Vincent De Paul thrift store.
I must admit, I did keep a few items that I haven't worn..I just didn't have the heart to get rid of them. But there was some really nice t-shirts, sweaters, hoodies, panjama pants, and jeans in there.
It just feels good to do something really nice like that. I know people are getting use out of my things. Better than throwing away...someones wearing or using it.
I also went through all of my books and put all the ones I didn't want or have already read into the box, they mostly consisted of corny love themes. I plan on also donating these books to St. Vinny's.
It feels great to know, I basically PURGED a lot of things out of my apartments, while helping someone else out:-)
Sunday, April 10, 2011
The Kinder Generation: Sure, I'll clean your house:-)
This weekend, I was thinking of some acts of kindness I could do when I seen my uncle in the grocery store. He's a single man with a heart of gold.
When I was younger I would clean his house and he would give me some money, plus it would give me something to do, I really didn't mind cleaning...and it was my grandma's house, memories...
But most importantly he is a bachelor living with Crohn's disease: "a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It usually affects the intestines, but may occur anywhere from the mouth to the end of the rectum (anus). Normally, the immune system helps protect the body, but with Crohn's disease the immune system can't tell the difference between normal body tissue and foreign substances. The result is an overactive immune response that leads to chronic inflammation. This is called an autoimmune disorder."
...Basically, it's very painful. So I'd like to do something nice for him. He has given me a lot of money here and there. For some reason he always insists and feels the need to give me and all the cousins $$$.
Any who...I seen him at the store, and we got talking after while I asked him if he would like me to clean his house for him. No Charge of course! He kind of chuckled, and said I could. I told him I'd be over Saturday afternoon. His house wasn't as messy as I thought it would be, he became a little bit more organized and cleaner. I still, wiped off the counter tops, stoves, appliances, etc..and cleaned the kitchen including the floors. I did all the normal stuff, vacuuming..sweeping, dusting. He came back from town very surprised and very happy! We continued to chat for awhile and then I told him I should get going to make dinner..for me and John.
It was really good to see him and his house wasn't even that bad. It took me an hour and a half, pretty small house. Oh and when I got home, I had dinner made for me!
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
The Kinder Generation: Dog Sitting; a kind gesture
This weekend didn't go at all like expected but that's okay, everything worked out. Last Friday, my friend called me...in a panic. She told me, that she was suppose to go out of town for the weekend to visit her family but her dog is unwelcome, 'cause he's a big beast...Since her parents house is so small, she cant have him there...too much trouble.
She said she had called everyone else, and they were all busy, so obviously I kind of felt obligated to say, "umm, I guess I could...you know I'm not allowed to have pets in my apartment right..?" which is exactly what I said, but no she didn't know, and I said okay anyways.
I love dogs, miss my dog or well, the family dog who is at my moms. When my boyfriend and I moved into the apartment we live in now, we had to get rid of our little kitty:-( so I was actually excited to have the dog in the house. But, also really nervous, I kept thinking "what if my land lord drives by" (that's how he caught us, with our cat!).
Everything went really good, I helped out a friend and watched her dog:-) The pup was so good, I'll definitely do the favor again, if needed!
She said she had called everyone else, and they were all busy, so obviously I kind of felt obligated to say, "umm, I guess I could...you know I'm not allowed to have pets in my apartment right..?" which is exactly what I said, but no she didn't know, and I said okay anyways.
I love dogs, miss my dog or well, the family dog who is at my moms. When my boyfriend and I moved into the apartment we live in now, we had to get rid of our little kitty:-( so I was actually excited to have the dog in the house. But, also really nervous, I kept thinking "what if my land lord drives by" (that's how he caught us, with our cat!).
Everything went really good, I helped out a friend and watched her dog:-) The pup was so good, I'll definitely do the favor again, if needed!
Friday, April 1, 2011
The Kinder Generation: Little Things, Little Things...
Sorry it's been a few days! I've been so busy with all my classes, the work is just piling up with only 3 more weeks to go!
With that said, I haven't had anytime to do any big acts of kindness but when I'm about and about on campus, at work or in my community I am noticing some really kind acts that I thought I would share with you.
A couple nights ago I went to Family Video to return some movies...I went in the doors, put my movies in the drop off box, when I kid who looked about 7-8ish opened the door to come in but when he seen my he held the door open for me as I walked out telling me to have a good night. I replied with saying thank you and had a HUGE smile on my face. You could tell he must have had some good parents or something, because he had manners, polite and was really thoughtful! Most little kids don't care. They walk in and out, slamming the door but this boy took the time to open the door:-) made me happy.
The next morning I went to the store to get a few household supplies, I only had 3 things but when I went out to the check out there was a lady with a full cart. She told me, "Here! You go in front of me, I have no where to be and am in no hurry!" This made me so happy because I was running late for work and was in a big hurry. So I kindly thanked the woman and rushed out. As I got in my car, I couldn't help but look back on it, and thought, wow, that lady was really nice to let me go in front of her!"
The next day I had to work 8-1 which really stressed me out because I had a huge test in my Social Work Policy class at 2. I told my manager about it and if it was dead, if there was any way I could leave earlier. She said she would try but of course...it got really busy for lunch, why you ask? Because I had a test. Haha. I had to much prep to do, making pico, guac, and cutting romaine but I couldn't help thinking " I need to get out so I could study some more!" At about 12:20, Janee told me..."Michelle, go ask Caleb to take over for you so you can leave...I know you have that big test today" "Janee, are you sure?! We're pretty busy right now" I asked. "Yeah, we'll be fine..Ann is here to help if we need anything." I was so HAPPY and THANKFUL. I didn't think it was going to happen, but I was able to study for my test and pull of a 89%.
It's these little things that makes me have so much gratitude towards people, it's those little things that can make or break your day. I like to think that maybe this is my Karma, for doing nice things for others. :-)
With that said, I haven't had anytime to do any big acts of kindness but when I'm about and about on campus, at work or in my community I am noticing some really kind acts that I thought I would share with you.
A couple nights ago I went to Family Video to return some movies...I went in the doors, put my movies in the drop off box, when I kid who looked about 7-8ish opened the door to come in but when he seen my he held the door open for me as I walked out telling me to have a good night. I replied with saying thank you and had a HUGE smile on my face. You could tell he must have had some good parents or something, because he had manners, polite and was really thoughtful! Most little kids don't care. They walk in and out, slamming the door but this boy took the time to open the door:-) made me happy.
The next morning I went to the store to get a few household supplies, I only had 3 things but when I went out to the check out there was a lady with a full cart. She told me, "Here! You go in front of me, I have no where to be and am in no hurry!" This made me so happy because I was running late for work and was in a big hurry. So I kindly thanked the woman and rushed out. As I got in my car, I couldn't help but look back on it, and thought, wow, that lady was really nice to let me go in front of her!"
The next day I had to work 8-1 which really stressed me out because I had a huge test in my Social Work Policy class at 2. I told my manager about it and if it was dead, if there was any way I could leave earlier. She said she would try but of course...it got really busy for lunch, why you ask? Because I had a test. Haha. I had to much prep to do, making pico, guac, and cutting romaine but I couldn't help thinking " I need to get out so I could study some more!" At about 12:20, Janee told me..."Michelle, go ask Caleb to take over for you so you can leave...I know you have that big test today" "Janee, are you sure?! We're pretty busy right now" I asked. "Yeah, we'll be fine..Ann is here to help if we need anything." I was so HAPPY and THANKFUL. I didn't think it was going to happen, but I was able to study for my test and pull of a 89%.
It's these little things that makes me have so much gratitude towards people, it's those little things that can make or break your day. I like to think that maybe this is my Karma, for doing nice things for others. :-)
Friday, March 25, 2011
The Kinder Generation: Work work Work...
Even though I'm a busy college student that should be studying for her 2 tests next week I found myself being nice and saying yes to a co-worker. Or should I say co-workers.
Wednesday I was suppose to work 1-7 but my co-worker wasn't feeling the best so I offered to stay and close for her, despite how exhausted I already was from, school and work. Closing would mean I had to stayed until about 10ish. Gotta think of that pay check though:-) And she got to go home and get some rest.
Thursday I was suppose to have the day off but my co-worker Kyle called me and asked if I could take his shift so he could go play basketball. I didn't really want it and kind of hesitated, because once again..I had worked 8-1, had 2 classes..but here I was saying yes, just to be kind. I worked 5-9
It's okay though, because now it's Friday and I've had the whole day off:-) Went for a long drive with a best friend and jammed to some great music. It's a great day and I feel amazing. I truly believe in karma, what goes around comes around..so hopefully if I'm ever sick or if I want the day off, my co-workers will be there.
Wednesday I was suppose to work 1-7 but my co-worker wasn't feeling the best so I offered to stay and close for her, despite how exhausted I already was from, school and work. Closing would mean I had to stayed until about 10ish. Gotta think of that pay check though:-) And she got to go home and get some rest.
Thursday I was suppose to have the day off but my co-worker Kyle called me and asked if I could take his shift so he could go play basketball. I didn't really want it and kind of hesitated, because once again..I had worked 8-1, had 2 classes..but here I was saying yes, just to be kind. I worked 5-9
It's okay though, because now it's Friday and I've had the whole day off:-) Went for a long drive with a best friend and jammed to some great music. It's a great day and I feel amazing. I truly believe in karma, what goes around comes around..so hopefully if I'm ever sick or if I want the day off, my co-workers will be there.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
The Kinder Generation: Creepy?
Well, I just typed this huge blog...about my act of kindness today and with one little click, by mistake, everything was gone. Not too happy about it:-( but anyways...starting over
I've been reading blogs here and there about people doing random acts of kindness by putting inspirational/positive notes on strangers cars. Something cheesy like, "Your worth a million!" "SMILE!". Usually I would go against this idea because it reminds me of a movie where this lady put a note on a guys car, who was a dick of a driver. A while later when he finds it, he manages to follow her, and attempts to kill her with his friends. Weird, I know.
But I figured since it went good for the people who wrote the blogs, I'd try it. I found 2 inspirational quotes:
The grand essentials of happiness are: something to do, something to love, and something to hope for.
- Allan K. Chalmers
Unless we think of others and do something for them, we miss one of the greatest sources of happiness.
- Ray Lyman Wilbu
I got 3 blank index cards and wrote them down. I went around my community and put them on the cars, I was kind of nervous because I didn't want the alarm to go off but I went for the older cars. I don't think any one seen, well except my boyfriend.
I hope I made someones day and put a smile and their faces, I know if I went out to my car and I seen a note I'd be pretty happy. I just hope it wasn't too creepy.
I've been reading blogs here and there about people doing random acts of kindness by putting inspirational/positive notes on strangers cars. Something cheesy like, "Your worth a million!" "SMILE!". Usually I would go against this idea because it reminds me of a movie where this lady put a note on a guys car, who was a dick of a driver. A while later when he finds it, he manages to follow her, and attempts to kill her with his friends. Weird, I know.
But I figured since it went good for the people who wrote the blogs, I'd try it. I found 2 inspirational quotes:
The grand essentials of happiness are: something to do, something to love, and something to hope for.
- Allan K. Chalmers
Unless we think of others and do something for them, we miss one of the greatest sources of happiness.
- Ray Lyman Wilbu
I got 3 blank index cards and wrote them down. I went around my community and put them on the cars, I was kind of nervous because I didn't want the alarm to go off but I went for the older cars. I don't think any one seen, well except my boyfriend.
I hope I made someones day and put a smile and their faces, I know if I went out to my car and I seen a note I'd be pretty happy. I just hope it wasn't too creepy.
Monday, March 21, 2011
The Kinder Generation: Babysitting
Sunday's are my third day of the week, after Friday's and Saturday's of course. I love the concept of R&R and not having to do much besides unfinished homework. Mostly, my boyfriend and I will make a great big breakfast and go rent movies and have a lazy day. This Sunday was different my cousin Amy called and told me she had to go to work and there was no one to babysit my little cousin Ella. Right away I felt obliged to babysit, Amy couldn't lose this job and I would be able to spend time with Ella. Luckily we were finishing eating breakfast but we weren't able to rent movies, plus John (my boyfriend) had to find something to do.
Even though this isn't what I had planned for our Sunday, babysitting I still had fun. My cousin is the cutest little girl and I never get to see her enough. She always makes me laugh and smile. I knew Amy wasn't going to pay me so I wasn't really expecting it. I did it to help her out and spend time with the little one.
Even though this isn't what I had planned for our Sunday, babysitting I still had fun. My cousin is the cutest little girl and I never get to see her enough. She always makes me laugh and smile. I knew Amy wasn't going to pay me so I wasn't really expecting it. I did it to help her out and spend time with the little one.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
The Kinder Generation: It takes one thing to make someone's day better
I've been kind of under the weather lately so I haven't had a chance to do too many big acts of kindness..'cause I don't wanna be around people, spreading around my germs! Even with me being sick, I happened to notice a few acts that were done for me, incidents which made me very surprised.
Tuesday I went to the store and was standing in line getting ready to pay for my power-aid and fruit. I ended up being short like a dollar something, as I'm digging in my purse trying to find change, the lady behind me gave the cashier what I owed. I looked at her with probably an astonished look, and said..."Oh no, you don't have to do that!" and just smiled and said "oh no hunny, I got this...don't you worry about it". That's probably the first time that's ever happened to me. I couldn't believe she did that for me! This instantly made me happy and put me in a great mood, it made me wanted to do something to make someone's day.
Today I went through BK's drive through, bought a meal which came to 5 something, and paid with a 10. I told them to keep the change, and pay for the next person behind me. It sounds kind of weird, but to make sure the employee didn't pocket the money...I sat in the parking lot, to see if I could see anything. I didn't see the car hand them any money, but I heard laughs, and her smile when she drove away. I felt awesome.
I am definitely going to look for more opportunities to do this, even if it's just small change. It still makes someone's day to not have to put something back:-)
Tuesday I went to the store and was standing in line getting ready to pay for my power-aid and fruit. I ended up being short like a dollar something, as I'm digging in my purse trying to find change, the lady behind me gave the cashier what I owed. I looked at her with probably an astonished look, and said..."Oh no, you don't have to do that!" and just smiled and said "oh no hunny, I got this...don't you worry about it". That's probably the first time that's ever happened to me. I couldn't believe she did that for me! This instantly made me happy and put me in a great mood, it made me wanted to do something to make someone's day.
Today I went through BK's drive through, bought a meal which came to 5 something, and paid with a 10. I told them to keep the change, and pay for the next person behind me. It sounds kind of weird, but to make sure the employee didn't pocket the money...I sat in the parking lot, to see if I could see anything. I didn't see the car hand them any money, but I heard laughs, and her smile when she drove away. I felt awesome.
I am definitely going to look for more opportunities to do this, even if it's just small change. It still makes someone's day to not have to put something back:-)
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
The Kinder Generation: Becoming More Aware
This week I've been working a lot and had little opportunity(time-wise) to some bigger acts of kindness but I must admit now that I've been doing so many of them, I'm becoming much more aware of other people and myself doing it unconsciously on a daily basis.
At my work, guest service and team work are our main goals. We are trained to do whatever necessary(within appropriate job standards, of course) to please our guests and keep them coming back. I'm a line cook much more than a cashier these days, but even still I am notice random acts of kindness committed by my fellow employees, superiors and even the guests.
I always try to come in the door with a smile, answer the phone with a smile (they say if you smile before you answer the phone, the tone of your voice will be much more happier sounding) and talk to the guests with a smile and a listening ear. I've learned that if you just simply listen, the guest will be much more polite and reciprocal. Everybody just wants to be listened to and acknowledged. Whenever a guest has a complaint, we listen first and for most and then the first thing we say is "I am very sorry you had that experience" and ask them how we can make it better. When people have complaints we write them comp cards (I'm sorry cards), free chips and salsa or credit book. Those are just some of the little things we do as a team to make a bad situation better, or a crabby guest happy.
Other times we spark up conversations with guests. I am always noticing our General Manger talking to guest, she sometimes even scoots right the booth with them. When I see her, I always think..."They don't even know her, don't they feel awkward with her just sitting down, randomly talking to them?" But honestly, I don't think they do. They always have smiles on their faces and their engaging in the conversation.
I've been having really good days at work lately. I don't know if it's my more than positive attitude or the good and positive company I have around me...but it's probably both. I just feel so good about being there because everybody works together and helped each other out. "Oh I'll do that for you, let me get that, don't worry about it, I got it. Good job, you did that really good" are just some of the helpfulness phrases I hear, daily.
It's just such a positive atmosphere and I think most of the time the guests get that feeling too! I really like being apart of something that strives to make everyone happy, and their day go better. I've seen crabby/cold people turn into happy, talkative people just by a couple key words. You don't even realize until you really look and listen around you.
At my work, guest service and team work are our main goals. We are trained to do whatever necessary(within appropriate job standards, of course) to please our guests and keep them coming back. I'm a line cook much more than a cashier these days, but even still I am notice random acts of kindness committed by my fellow employees, superiors and even the guests.
I always try to come in the door with a smile, answer the phone with a smile (they say if you smile before you answer the phone, the tone of your voice will be much more happier sounding) and talk to the guests with a smile and a listening ear. I've learned that if you just simply listen, the guest will be much more polite and reciprocal. Everybody just wants to be listened to and acknowledged. Whenever a guest has a complaint, we listen first and for most and then the first thing we say is "I am very sorry you had that experience" and ask them how we can make it better. When people have complaints we write them comp cards (I'm sorry cards), free chips and salsa or credit book. Those are just some of the little things we do as a team to make a bad situation better, or a crabby guest happy.
Other times we spark up conversations with guests. I am always noticing our General Manger talking to guest, she sometimes even scoots right the booth with them. When I see her, I always think..."They don't even know her, don't they feel awkward with her just sitting down, randomly talking to them?" But honestly, I don't think they do. They always have smiles on their faces and their engaging in the conversation.
I've been having really good days at work lately. I don't know if it's my more than positive attitude or the good and positive company I have around me...but it's probably both. I just feel so good about being there because everybody works together and helped each other out. "Oh I'll do that for you, let me get that, don't worry about it, I got it. Good job, you did that really good" are just some of the helpfulness phrases I hear, daily.
It's just such a positive atmosphere and I think most of the time the guests get that feeling too! I really like being apart of something that strives to make everyone happy, and their day go better. I've seen crabby/cold people turn into happy, talkative people just by a couple key words. You don't even realize until you really look and listen around you.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
The Kinder Generation: The Local Chuch
I was looking for more opportunities for acts of kindness when I thought of my local Salvation Army church. I've volunteered there a few time before, helping with silent actions and paper work for my social work classes but other than that I don't volunteer as much as I should. Yesterday they put me to work right away, with helping to set up food baskets for the low income or needy families. It was pretty easy and there was some really generous, warm hearted people there. They were really happy and thankful I came...because they always have so much to do with not enough people, so it's easy for things to start piling up, every little bit helps. I'm definitely going to go back, and help with some soup kitchens and whatever else they need help with. She gave me a schedule. I was also thinking about helping out at the food bank here in Ishpeming, I'll have to check into it more.
Well have a good Spring Break everyone...I know I will:-)
Well have a good Spring Break everyone...I know I will:-)
Saturday, February 19, 2011
The Kinder Generation: Germs, Germs, Germs.
Well, I have not had the best week! Tuesday, sometime in the middle of the night I came down with the flu...and let me tell you, it was intense. I haven't gotten that sick in over a year or two. So I didn't get to do too many random acts of kindness. Not to mention, Wednesday night my boyfriend came down with the flu, the same exact kind. Needless to say, our house is germ infected!
When Thursday came around, as much as I wanted to go to my grandpa's I felt like I shouldn't. With as sick as he is if he caught any strand of the flu what so ever, he'd probably be back in the hospital again. I don't want that on me, plus I would feel so bad! So anyways, I called him up and asked if he thought it was okay if I came over, despite of all of this I still wanted to stick to my pact (spending time with him). But he said what I thought he would say, it's probably not a good idea. Today I'm finally feeling 100% better. My sister and I went over to his house today and celebrated her birthday. I bought all the pizzas, and made the cake, which was oh so good. We had so much fun playing this simple game, Shut-box..I believe it's called.
Other than that, I manged to do little acts here and there today:
Helped an older lady carry her groceries to her car. Her reaction was priceless when I asked she had this
deer in the headlights look, "umm, whatt is going on?!" she was probably thinking. haha. but she smiled very big. "You didn't have to do that" she said. I insisted it was okay...she said thank you about 4 times. I told her she was welcome and to have a great day.
It was simple, just seen the opportunity to do a nice thing.
Today was Marsha's benefit. I helpedwith the silent action and call off the raffle tickets. It was such a good turn out! There was food, live music, and so many kids! It was a lot of fun though. I'm excited to see how much they made.
When Thursday came around, as much as I wanted to go to my grandpa's I felt like I shouldn't. With as sick as he is if he caught any strand of the flu what so ever, he'd probably be back in the hospital again. I don't want that on me, plus I would feel so bad! So anyways, I called him up and asked if he thought it was okay if I came over, despite of all of this I still wanted to stick to my pact (spending time with him). But he said what I thought he would say, it's probably not a good idea. Today I'm finally feeling 100% better. My sister and I went over to his house today and celebrated her birthday. I bought all the pizzas, and made the cake, which was oh so good. We had so much fun playing this simple game, Shut-box..I believe it's called.
Other than that, I manged to do little acts here and there today:
Helped an older lady carry her groceries to her car. Her reaction was priceless when I asked she had this
deer in the headlights look, "umm, whatt is going on?!" she was probably thinking. haha. but she smiled very big. "You didn't have to do that" she said. I insisted it was okay...she said thank you about 4 times. I told her she was welcome and to have a great day.
It was simple, just seen the opportunity to do a nice thing.
Today was Marsha's benefit. I helpedwith the silent action and call off the raffle tickets. It was such a good turn out! There was food, live music, and so many kids! It was a lot of fun though. I'm excited to see how much they made.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
The Kinder Generation: The Elderly
Yesterday was my day off, so I decided to actually do something I've been meaning to do for awhile now, just like the situation with my grandpa. I always say or think I wanna go to the nursing home, visit with the old people spend some time..making them happy. It's just one of those things that would pop in my head every now and then, "you should do that, it would be nice".
I decided it would be nice to make cookies, and deserts. So I just made a regular chocolate chip cookie and then raspberry bars (my grandmothers recipe). Its kind of funny because my great grandma is staying at the nursing home I went to, and it was her recipe. On a sad note, she has Alzheimers so bad, who knows if she realized, or understood. It happens though, it's part of old age-she still loved them!
You don't realize how much people actually need and want someone to talk to, just to tell stories to or laugh with. I got all the typical stories about "in my day" and "when I was your age" I couldn't help but chuckle sometimes. It was cute. It seems like younger people bring out the fun loving personalities in the elderly. They get so happy, and are usually in much better moods!
I felt pretty good walking out of there, like I just made someone's day. Well a couple people's day.
I decided it would be nice to make cookies, and deserts. So I just made a regular chocolate chip cookie and then raspberry bars (my grandmothers recipe). Its kind of funny because my great grandma is staying at the nursing home I went to, and it was her recipe. On a sad note, she has Alzheimers so bad, who knows if she realized, or understood. It happens though, it's part of old age-she still loved them!
You don't realize how much people actually need and want someone to talk to, just to tell stories to or laugh with. I got all the typical stories about "in my day" and "when I was your age" I couldn't help but chuckle sometimes. It was cute. It seems like younger people bring out the fun loving personalities in the elderly. They get so happy, and are usually in much better moods!
I felt pretty good walking out of there, like I just made someone's day. Well a couple people's day.
Saturday, February 12, 2011
The Kinder Generation: Every Bit Helps Cont.
Last week I explained how a friend lost her house and everything they owned in a fire and that we were trying to get donations for them by donating our tips at Border Grill. It started out with a co-worker and I, but we got more people to donate their tips as well. We ended up raising $260 for them which we decided to buy gift cards from Kohls and Wal-Mart. Partly because Marsha (owned the house) was wearing her sisters clothes, so we figured she could go to Kohls and at least buy herself $100 worth of clothing. When we gave her these gift cards, she was shocked and started crying which made me cry. It was very sad, but happy at the same time. I couldn't express how thankful she was. It made me feel so amazing just to know that I helped someone, and that we pretty much made her day :-)
Friday, February 11, 2011
The Kinder Generation: Surprise, Surprise
I have a feeling that my grandpa was very surprise when I actually came over last night! I had such a great time, and you could tell him and Sue (Married my grandpa, but it's kinda weird to call her "grandma") were very happy to see me. They probably just thought..that I was just saying I'd be back, and then never show up. We ended up playing 2 games of Yahtzee! I don't know if anyone ever heard of this dice game, but we (mom, sister and I) always used to play, those times where my mom actually brought us over, and visited with her dad. To my surprise, and everyone else I won BOTH games, kicked their butt actually. I was so happy!!! Not only because I never play, but because they play every night. I got a score of 901, which their high score is 981..which made me feel really good, considering I wasn't even trying. I was just having fun with them, chatting and laughing!
We also discussed my sister's birthday party. I'm throwing a little get together with food, and presents at my grandpas house. She's going out to eat with my mom, later in the week. I figure since my mom and grandpa aren't getting along yet, we'd have it over there so they can be apart of her special day to. I will be buying pizzas, and making a cake for my sister. We talked about it last night, and we're already pretty excited by this.
Speaking of my mom and grandpa still not talking, I figured I would explain how that's going. A couple days ago, I told my mom I went to grandpa's and she asked me how that went. I told her it went really good and that I made a pact with myself to visit him every Thursday. She told me she was happy, but also her feelings about it and what happen. She doesn't think she should be the one to make the first move, because she doesn't feel like she did anything wrong. She feels like her dad treats Sue's daughter better than he EVER treated his own kids, this is partly true. But I tried explaining how maybe stepping in his shoes, and learning why he is the way he is might help her see that he has changed. There are some other issues involving this but it's too much to ramble on in a blog, and I feel like that's really not necessary. All I know that my grandpa has definitely changed in his old age, he's more lovable, compassionate, and open. He feels bad about all the stuff that happened, things that were said, etc but I think he's scared to make the first move because he doesn't know how my mom will react. She's very stubborn, and intimating sometimes (her bark is WAY bigger than her bite. She's really sensitive, and lovable) so he probably feels like it wont work anyways.
So pretty much I believe it's all about the first move, I think once they got over that...they would love each other again, it would be over. But it's getting them to that point. Last night I talked to my mom again after I was done visiting him, and she smiled and nodded, and didn't say anything negative, maybe she's leaning towards it? I don't know, but me and my sister are still trying to find a way where we can get them together. We'll come up with something, hopefully soon... this is nonsense.
We also discussed my sister's birthday party. I'm throwing a little get together with food, and presents at my grandpas house. She's going out to eat with my mom, later in the week. I figure since my mom and grandpa aren't getting along yet, we'd have it over there so they can be apart of her special day to. I will be buying pizzas, and making a cake for my sister. We talked about it last night, and we're already pretty excited by this.
Speaking of my mom and grandpa still not talking, I figured I would explain how that's going. A couple days ago, I told my mom I went to grandpa's and she asked me how that went. I told her it went really good and that I made a pact with myself to visit him every Thursday. She told me she was happy, but also her feelings about it and what happen. She doesn't think she should be the one to make the first move, because she doesn't feel like she did anything wrong. She feels like her dad treats Sue's daughter better than he EVER treated his own kids, this is partly true. But I tried explaining how maybe stepping in his shoes, and learning why he is the way he is might help her see that he has changed. There are some other issues involving this but it's too much to ramble on in a blog, and I feel like that's really not necessary. All I know that my grandpa has definitely changed in his old age, he's more lovable, compassionate, and open. He feels bad about all the stuff that happened, things that were said, etc but I think he's scared to make the first move because he doesn't know how my mom will react. She's very stubborn, and intimating sometimes (her bark is WAY bigger than her bite. She's really sensitive, and lovable) so he probably feels like it wont work anyways.
So pretty much I believe it's all about the first move, I think once they got over that...they would love each other again, it would be over. But it's getting them to that point. Last night I talked to my mom again after I was done visiting him, and she smiled and nodded, and didn't say anything negative, maybe she's leaning towards it? I don't know, but me and my sister are still trying to find a way where we can get them together. We'll come up with something, hopefully soon... this is nonsense.
Monday, February 7, 2011
The Kinder Generation: Every Thursday
Last Wednesday I found out my grandma on my dads side passed away in the nursing home, she was staying at MCMCF. Marquette County Medical Care Facility, a nursing home for the elderly in Ishpeming. I wish I could say I was closer and visited often, but that is very far from the truth. I am not all that close with my father, or that side of the family but I was still sad to hear about it from my mom, because it's a bit depressing when anybody dies.
I also have a grandpa on my mom's side who isn't doing the best, he was actually suppose to die 5 years ago, when he was in the hospital for everything but cancer, pretty much. He was near death, and they were ready to give up but suddenly he came out of it and survived. We like to say that he is living on borrowed time, and be thankful for every moment but with school and work I am so busy! I always say I'll visit him, tomorrow, tomorrow but I get caught up with every thing in my own life..but when my grandma died I realized there might not be too many more tomorrows for him. That's when I made a pact with myself to visit him every Thursday. I'm usually done with my school work by then, I'm off, and my boyfriend is gone to cribbage so no excuses.
I actually went this Thursday and ended up staying for over four hours! It was so much fun. We talked about old times, and reminisced. He told me old stories about his and our family, things I never knew, I was so interested! You could tell he was so happy when I was there, we were both rambling on about everything, smiles and laughter. It was a great time, I'm so happy I started this. After I left, there was a feeling that came over me that I couldn't explain. My heart felt so good, I was so happy and for some reason it felt like a huge weight was lifted off my shoulder. I know that what I'm doing is the right thing and it feels so good. When I told my grandpa, "I'll be back soon, I promise" he was probably thinking, "yeah...right, you always say that, it'll be months before she comes back". He's going to be so surprised and happy when I actually do go back, this Thursday.
I also have some plans for this, in the future. I'm not too sure how to go about it yet, but my mother and grandpa (her dad) had a little fight/misunderstanding awhile back, I guess you could say, "family drama" and for some reason haven't talked since. It was so stupid, they both feel bad about it, both love each other but are too stubborn to do anything about it. It's ridiculous, we all were SO close and I want our family to be like that once again. I plan on getting them together some how, so they make up and forgive before it's too late. This should be interesting...
I also have a grandpa on my mom's side who isn't doing the best, he was actually suppose to die 5 years ago, when he was in the hospital for everything but cancer, pretty much. He was near death, and they were ready to give up but suddenly he came out of it and survived. We like to say that he is living on borrowed time, and be thankful for every moment but with school and work I am so busy! I always say I'll visit him, tomorrow, tomorrow but I get caught up with every thing in my own life..but when my grandma died I realized there might not be too many more tomorrows for him. That's when I made a pact with myself to visit him every Thursday. I'm usually done with my school work by then, I'm off, and my boyfriend is gone to cribbage so no excuses.
I actually went this Thursday and ended up staying for over four hours! It was so much fun. We talked about old times, and reminisced. He told me old stories about his and our family, things I never knew, I was so interested! You could tell he was so happy when I was there, we were both rambling on about everything, smiles and laughter. It was a great time, I'm so happy I started this. After I left, there was a feeling that came over me that I couldn't explain. My heart felt so good, I was so happy and for some reason it felt like a huge weight was lifted off my shoulder. I know that what I'm doing is the right thing and it feels so good. When I told my grandpa, "I'll be back soon, I promise" he was probably thinking, "yeah...right, you always say that, it'll be months before she comes back". He's going to be so surprised and happy when I actually do go back, this Thursday.
I also have some plans for this, in the future. I'm not too sure how to go about it yet, but my mother and grandpa (her dad) had a little fight/misunderstanding awhile back, I guess you could say, "family drama" and for some reason haven't talked since. It was so stupid, they both feel bad about it, both love each other but are too stubborn to do anything about it. It's ridiculous, we all were SO close and I want our family to be like that once again. I plan on getting them together some how, so they make up and forgive before it's too late. This should be interesting...
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
The Kinder Generation: Every Bit Helps
After our class discussion on Monday I've decided to be much more open about my project. Instead of limiting and being so specific about each random act of kindness I'm just gong to look for daily opportunities for me to do different acts and be kind to someone for no reason other than trying to be a helpful, positive person.
I still want to approach each different age group but I think that will just happen automatically and at the end of the experiment I can do a comparison. I am also going to be more aware to when people are being kind to me, and do something nice. Hopefully I'll become much more appreciative to things that I don't think about.
I didn't waste any time starting this project because something very unexpected and terrible happened to my cousin in law's mother and brother last week. Her house and everything she owned was covered in ash from a house fire. Her son was living with there with his girlfriend who is pregnant. They lost everything.
My co-worker and I had the idea to donate anything we could find to help their family out. Since every month we get tips at Border Grill that get divided among the employees, we decided we should donate our tips for this month to them. It's not the biggest donation but it's something, we also asked other employees if they wanted to do the same, most said yes. A lot of people we know are also donating and giving them what they can. Instantly I felt good about this choice. It felt really good knowing I helped them out and did my part. The family are very very thankful for all the contributions that were made. They already have a house in Negaunee, with most of the stuff they need. With the money we collected at Border Grill, we're just going to get them a gift certificate so they can get whatever else they need.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
The Kinder Generation: Introduction
I work at a local Mexican restaurant located in the heart of Negaunee, Michigan. It is a fast/casual style of dining where every meal is cooked fresh to order. We have always been known for our friendly, caring and laid back atmosphere, with good guest service but I want to go above and beyond what is expected of us as employees, because while our owner and mangers expect us to show acts of kindness to our guest (we do not call them costumers because "guest are invited into our establishment") the guest themselves don't necessarily expect it. Most restaurants, at least a lot of the ones I have dined in are actually very cold, and unfriendly, they are quick to take your orders and get you moving along. This can actually influence a person's decision quite a bit on choosing whether or not to eat at a specific restaurant. I want to make it a point to come up with a different random act of kindness twice a week and observe how politeness, kindness, and helpfulness are perceived across generations. The people who I would approach would be a random person from each age group: young teens, young adults, middle adults and older adults. I would also look at genders, do males reacts the same as females? I think it will be very interesting to observe the variations of responses, face expressions and actions among these certain age groups. Do they smile back? Do they say something in return? Did they physically do something after the act? Or do they even acknowledge you? would just be some of the responses I would be looking for. Of course I will start out small, with the simple task of smiling, opening doors, etc into bigger acts of kindness and since I'm doing it twice a week I will probably choose do this outside of work too, to see if responses are any different. Doing this project during work and outside will alksokgive me the opportunity to do bigger acts of kindness and since there may be some things I will be unable to do at work because of the time, and job duties I will be able to peruse them still. I chose to do this because I feel like random acts of kindness are very important and with our busy every day world, schedules with work, school and family it is easy to get side tracked and forget about those things. I also think it will be interesting to see if over time with our ever changing society if people as a whole got more or less polite, compared to the 80's lets say. I believe laughter and smiles are contagious and I feel like maybe me doing this will inspire other people to do nice things for people or just be a better person in general. With everybody smiling and doing random acts of kindness hopefully we can make the world a little bit better all the time.
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