Sunday, January 9, 2011

29 Gifts ~ Day 6 ~ Almost more than words can say: Love Bugs and Hacky Sacks :-)

This one was so easy it could almost be called cheating. But giving is giving and I'm going to do it anyway. Back in the summer when I saw these two little cuties, I immediately thought of my nieces, Carissa and Rachelle. You may have guessed by now that I procrastinated in sending them.

Lady Bug and Patriotic Hackie Sack
Every time I see a lady bug I think of Carissa. She's my 22 year old niece who works as a Veterinary Assistant in Carlsbad, CA. For as long as I can remember she has loved animals. When she was just a tot, she and her mom, my sister, Barb, would create these miniature bug farms in their back yard. Barb knew Carissa's tender heart and would go to great lengths to nurture it.
Carissa and one of her patients :-)
Whenever I see anything with a stars and stripes theme I think of Rachelle. She lost her husband nearly three years ago in the Iraq war. She was six weeks pregnant and he had only been there for a month when he was killed. She was devastated, we all were. Now, she's got a beautiful 2 year old son who keeps her going. He is an amazing child.
Rachelle and Richard
I've shared before about losing Barb twelve years ago to a fatal heart attack. It's been a rough go for these precious girls. They're doing pretty well now though. They have an amazing family that loves, lives, and plays together and I couldn't be happier for them.

Anyway, back to giving. You know how much fun it is to get a little surprise in the mail; Something different than junk mail and bills? I just thought I'd pop these in the mail for them and let them know I'm thinking of them...Just because I love them :-) ~ Blessings, Janet


Today I'm grateful for:

1) Time
2) My new whipping cream dispenser (I know, it's stupid, but I love it!)
3) Fresh lettuce from my garden

Here's a link to the 29 Gifts Website in case you want to check it out.

1 comment:

  1. I started reading this post with a smile on my face; your niece Carissa has such a rewarding job! And I swear, that piggy looks like he/she is smiling, don't you think? Must be the love.

    And as I continued reading, I was stunned by Rachelle's story (what a gorgeous photo)...that is just so tragic. One of my younger brothers is a Sgt. in the Army and recently returned from an 18-month tour in Iraq...I live in fear for his safety. :( I am so sorry for your niece. This 'give' - as simple as it is - runs far deeper than it being a patriotic hackie sack. The thought and the love are there...and it's a beautiful gift.

    I also meant to comment on your previous post...I just love that your hubby is the recipient of some of your gifts - he must be loving the extra TLC lately! Noticing your efforts on your salad for Day 2 is so sweet. Presentation is key, right? :)

    xo!

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