Teacup of Kindness - Randomness #4-2

It is hard to believe that I only have one month left before it is my birthday! Just three acts to complete and one new challenge.

For the month of December I wanted to carry over the spirit of giving, and continue with holiday themed acts.

#4 - A coworker told me about the organization Project Linus. It is a nationwide group that collects and makes handmade blankets to give to children in need. This is such a great organization, I think I may make this an annual tradition to make a blanket. I picked out a mixed yarn color of browns and reds that was neutral and festive. After I was finished crocheting I dropped it off at the local donation site which happened to be a fire station. I haven't crocheted in a few years so it was very fun to get back into it.

#3 - I made Christmas cookies to bring to two local fire stations. One batch I brought to the Project Linus donation site, and the second batch I brought to the fire station a few blocks from our apartment. I hope they tasted good!

#2 - For the first time ever I donated blood. It was kind of intimidating going for the first time, but I was glad to do it. In a previous blog post I mentioned how I tried donating blood a few months ago but did not have a high enough iron count. This time I made sure to take iron pills all week, and eat a carbohydrate lunch to help with the my blood level. I successfully passed this time and they scooted right off to the donation table. They had Planet of the Apes playing while I donated, and I got to eat cookies after. As an added bonus, anyone who donated on the date I went got a $10 Olive Garden gift card. It was a nice surprise!

Teacup of Fun - #2 Bearing Arms

This past weekend I took on a scary task and learned how to shoot a fire arm. I have never shot a gun before, and have very little knowledge on how they work. I was interested in learning more about them, the safety of the items, and how to shoot.

I met my coworker and her husband at their home for a safety tutorial. Her husband owns a couple guns, and goes hunting occasionally in the woods. He was a very instructive on how to operate each gun, and the safety features. Most importantly we learned what not to do - for instance never put your finger on the trigger until you are absolutely ready to fire.

We went to a gun range in Carol County, which they had never been there before either. When we arrived we headed to the rifle shooting where we shot three different guns. We had the opportunity to shoot a 1907 rifle, and then two other large rifles. It was very surprising how much force were behind them. It really makes you think about how powerful these items are, and the importance of knowing how they work.

After firing the rifles, we walked over to the hand gun area. We put up targets and each got to fire a few different times. As the day went on I felt like my aim was getting better, but it was quite difficult.

I do feel like if I were ever to be in a situation where I would need to know how to operate a gun I would have a small inkling on what to do. Also, what not to do! The actual firing of the gun is what is the most shocking.

We did take some photos of our day, but I had mixed feelings about adding them to this post. I feel like owning and using guns is a touchy subject with some people, and thought it would be best to share our experience rather then show through photos.

Teacup of Kindness - Randomness #6-5

I was getting in the thankful spirit of Thanksgiving, and thinking of ways I can give back. I am so grateful to have so many blessings in my life I wanted to show my appreciation for others.

I was hoping to complete three kindness acts this month, but time got away from me and unfortunately was able to do two
. Which means, good news, more holiday related acts in December!

#6 - One weekend day my fiance and I went to Small Miracles Animal Shelter in Ellicott City to donate items. We brought canned dog food, canned cat food, dog toys, cat toys, and poop bags for their walks. While we were there we were invited to visit with some of the cats and dogs. It took all of our strength not to leave with a new addition to our family, but maybe one day in the future we will have a cat or dog in our home.

#5 - A coworker of mine gave me the suggestion to write holiday cards to veterans. She sent me information for Holiday Mail for Heroes. I bought a pack of holiday cards, and sent out about 15 to the address. I felt very nostalgic after writing these cards. It was great to be able to send to those who may not receive a holiday card, and express my appreciation for all that they do and their sacrifices.