One Day Without Shoes

My feet hurt already and I've only been barefoot for a few hours.  I can't imagine doing every single day of life without shoes.  That's what literally millions of people do every day.  Here are some facts from TOMS Shoes:

In some developing nations, children must walk for miles to school, clean water and to seek medical help. 

Cuts and sores on feet can lead to serious infection. 

Often, children cannot attend school barefoot. 

In Ethiopia, approximately one million people are suffering from Podoconiosis, a debilitating and disfiguring disease caused by walking barefoot in volcanic soil. 

Podoconiosis is 100% preventable with basic foot hygiene and wearing shoes.

Not to 'stereotype', but I think a lot of times us Americans, in general, are pretty oblivious to the little things we have that others don't.  We know that we have big houses, nice cars, supermarkets, a free government, rights, jobs, etc.  But how often do we stop to think about the fact that we have things like, well, shoes. And clean water, band-aids, tylenol, snacks in the cupboard, the luxury of things like bathing suits - because we have time, money, or resources to go swimming in pools, at hotels, or even use the hose in our backyard to wash the car.  There are so many daily things that we have and use, and take for granted.  People around the world DON'T have these things.  Some people couldn't imagine what an entire grocery store full of food would even look like.  Or a closet FULL of shoes to CHOOSE from. 

So maybe today we'll think about it, just a little more than usual.  I know I am, and I'm thankful. Thankful to be reminded of what I have, and thankful that I actually have the power to do something to help others.  Do something for someone else today.  Here are some practical & affordable ways you can help people who are in desperate need:

• Buy a pair of TOMS shoes so that a child somewhere gets a pair too

• Buy a goat, a vegetable garden, a water purifier, etc. for a family through Oxfam International

• Start a child sponsorship through World Vision or Compassion International (all it takes is the money you probably spend on Starbucks each month - or maybe even half of that much)

• Play free games online like sudoku and solitaire to raise money through Mercy Corps

• Find a weekend to help with a Habitat for Humanity project somewhere near you

There are so many ways we can easily help, we just have to keep our eyes & ears open!  Spread the word today with your own ideas or actions.  And take off your shoes.  Walk a mile in their soles today :).

Will You Marry Me?

I can't believe it's been over a month since I was asked that blissful question.  Blissful, yes, I know that's not an often used word, but it's truly the best fit for this subject.  I can't explain how it feels to be asked that question by the man of your dreams - I'm not being cheesy, just honest.  I never thought I could be so lucky to get forever with this man.  Some time soon I'll type out the whole lovely story of how I was asked in the middle of a snowstorm on top of a mountain, but for now you can see for yourself...

I am officially the luckiest and happiest girl in the world.  Let the wedding planning begin!