Cue the music! Play whatever welcome back song that you want (for me, it's Back in Black). It's been awhile since I have posted anything. I could go into the whys, but I'd rather focus on what we have been up to and where we are headed.
Even though we have not been active online here or on Facebook, that doesn't mean that we have not been helping our families. We have still been providing gift cards for food and gas as well as baby clothes these past couple of years.
But here's the best news...Because of the generosity of the members of The Rock church located on Yongsan Garrison, South Korea, we are now able to do more. More of what? Here's what we plan to do in the next year:
1. Provide $8,000 in gas gift cards. The amount that we plan on giving in the next year is double what we were able to give in the past. How amazing is that?
2. Provide toiletry items. We have done this in the past a couple of times, but our main focus was on providing gift cards. Now that we are receiving more financial support, we are able to commit to this every quarter! What will we provide? Boxes of basic toiletry items containing shampoo, body wash, toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant, and hand sanitizer for families who need them.
3. Sponsor more families. Our goal is to provide $500 every quarter to sponsor families with going home bags. These will include baby items (diapers, wipes, baby clothes) that families will need when they bring their baby (or babies) home!
We are so very excited and thankful for the next year. How can you help?
1. Prayer. Please pray for our board members. Pray for direction - We want to be good stewards of the money we receive in ways that honor and glorify God.
2. Tell a Friend. Our purpose in this is to help others. Letting others know about our organization can do this. Find us on Facebook or Twitter. If you have a moment, please share our website!
3. Donate. We are a 501(c)(3) organization. Any donations are tax-deductible and are used to help our families. All board members (to include me) are volunteers, and no one receives payment for their hard work. We strive to minimize expenses and use our money wisely, so that the majority of our donations go directly to our families.
Please visit our website at www.holdmyheartfoundation.com for more information. You can reach me at holdmyheartfoundation@yahoo.com. We welcome your feedback and encouragement!
Monday, September 29, 2014
Friday, August 17, 2012
Testimony
Three years ago, my life changed. Not in a little way, but a big life-altering way. If I was still in school and I had to do a timeline project, this event would be on there. Not only is 2009 the year that I gave birth to my first daughter, Alyssa, but it was the year that I changed.
I am a Christian. I have been since 2000. But before 2009, I was unfortunately a Christian that didn't act like Christ. I was wordly, hypocritical and lukewarm. I was the Christian who went to church on Sundays (sometimes) and then left, forgetting everything once again. I wanted to know Christ, but I was too lazy to do anything about it. I wanted the benefits of being a Christian without losing anything. I was unwilling to compromise or give up anything I deemed more important than living a life that I should.
And then everything changed.
I found I was pregnant with Alyssa in early 2009. It was perfection at first - no morning sickness, great appointments. Then I found out that Alyssa had Down Syndrome. I remember falling apart and feeling hopeless when I got the confirmation. I blogged about it and then all these wonderful ladies reached out to me. Assuring me, encouraging me. I was reminded that everything was possible with God and I made a decision to rely on Him.
Then we found out that Alyssa was not doing well and had a 10% chance of survival. I can still remember that day and the long drive home. I remember how my husband, a man who I never saw cry, sobbed. I remember crying together. I also remember praying together, for the first time. I remember feeling strength. I knew that God was with us and that with Him, a 10% chance was 100%.
Many of you know our story. Alyssa was born at 29 weeks and lived for 11 days. Yes, we lost Alyssa but we gained so much more. Because of everything we went through, I am not the Christian I was. I am not saying I am perfect. I mess up daily, hourly. But I know now that I desire a life with Christ rather than a life without. Instead of living life on my demands and my timetable, I want to live the life He has planned for me. Instead of wanting to be blessed, I want to be a blessing to others.
Jesus said that the peace he gives is not as the world gives. And I firmly believe it 100%. Because I chose to have a relationship with Him, I have peace, even though my heart still grieves for my baby girl. I have joy because I know she is home and one day I will be there as well. Even in my moments of sadness (especially around this time of year) there is always joy.
People always tell me that I am strong. But I am not strong on my own accord. I have strength because I rely on Christ. People say that they don't think they could ever go through what we went through. But I say if you have a relationship with Christ, you can. I don't have peace or joy because of myself. I have it because of Him.
I don't think I would be the person I am today without our trials with Alyssa. I learned to rely on Him for strength and peace. I learned to make my relationship with Him a priority and to stop worrying about my own wants or needs (which is something I still struggle with). But most of all I learned that my God is truly everything.
August 30 will be Alyssa's third birthday. I praise God and thank Him for blessing us with her. I thank Him for being everything that I need in every moment. I thank Him for being my savior, counselor, and friend. I thank Him for changing my life and making it so much more than I thought it could ever be.
For those of you who are not Christians, I just have to say this. God loves you and desires a relationship with you. Following Christ is not easy and I say this not to discourage you. There will be trials and rough patches. But having God on your side is infinitely better than not.
If you want to know more information or talk about anything that I have posted please contact me at holdmyheartfoundation@yahoo.com.
I am a Christian. I have been since 2000. But before 2009, I was unfortunately a Christian that didn't act like Christ. I was wordly, hypocritical and lukewarm. I was the Christian who went to church on Sundays (sometimes) and then left, forgetting everything once again. I wanted to know Christ, but I was too lazy to do anything about it. I wanted the benefits of being a Christian without losing anything. I was unwilling to compromise or give up anything I deemed more important than living a life that I should.
And then everything changed.
I found I was pregnant with Alyssa in early 2009. It was perfection at first - no morning sickness, great appointments. Then I found out that Alyssa had Down Syndrome. I remember falling apart and feeling hopeless when I got the confirmation. I blogged about it and then all these wonderful ladies reached out to me. Assuring me, encouraging me. I was reminded that everything was possible with God and I made a decision to rely on Him.
Then we found out that Alyssa was not doing well and had a 10% chance of survival. I can still remember that day and the long drive home. I remember how my husband, a man who I never saw cry, sobbed. I remember crying together. I also remember praying together, for the first time. I remember feeling strength. I knew that God was with us and that with Him, a 10% chance was 100%.
Many of you know our story. Alyssa was born at 29 weeks and lived for 11 days. Yes, we lost Alyssa but we gained so much more. Because of everything we went through, I am not the Christian I was. I am not saying I am perfect. I mess up daily, hourly. But I know now that I desire a life with Christ rather than a life without. Instead of living life on my demands and my timetable, I want to live the life He has planned for me. Instead of wanting to be blessed, I want to be a blessing to others.
Jesus said that the peace he gives is not as the world gives. And I firmly believe it 100%. Because I chose to have a relationship with Him, I have peace, even though my heart still grieves for my baby girl. I have joy because I know she is home and one day I will be there as well. Even in my moments of sadness (especially around this time of year) there is always joy.
People always tell me that I am strong. But I am not strong on my own accord. I have strength because I rely on Christ. People say that they don't think they could ever go through what we went through. But I say if you have a relationship with Christ, you can. I don't have peace or joy because of myself. I have it because of Him.
I don't think I would be the person I am today without our trials with Alyssa. I learned to rely on Him for strength and peace. I learned to make my relationship with Him a priority and to stop worrying about my own wants or needs (which is something I still struggle with). But most of all I learned that my God is truly everything.
August 30 will be Alyssa's third birthday. I praise God and thank Him for blessing us with her. I thank Him for being everything that I need in every moment. I thank Him for being my savior, counselor, and friend. I thank Him for changing my life and making it so much more than I thought it could ever be.
For those of you who are not Christians, I just have to say this. God loves you and desires a relationship with you. Following Christ is not easy and I say this not to discourage you. There will be trials and rough patches. But having God on your side is infinitely better than not.
If you want to know more information or talk about anything that I have posted please contact me at holdmyheartfoundation@yahoo.com.
Monday, October 10, 2011
Getting Back
It has been too long. I guess I didn't realize how difficult it would be to move and try to plan an event. The 2nd annual walk was supposed to be this month. Unfortunately, I let things fall through. I guess I just felt overwhelmed with everything. But! I have had a chance to think things through and get back to where I need to be. I guess you could say that I lost focus and I just needed a moment. I hate that this may hurt the foundation but I am going to do everything I can to promote our cause and help our families.
We will do the walk in March. This gives me plenty of time to do everything and not feel overwhelmed! I am sorry to the people I let down. However, look in the next few weeks for great things!
We will do the walk in March. This gives me plenty of time to do everything and not feel overwhelmed! I am sorry to the people I let down. However, look in the next few weeks for great things!
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Blessings
For many of you this may be the first time that you have visited our blog or website. We are grateful that you took the time to learn more about our foundation. God has blessed us in many ways. The opportunity to be on Sarah's Stories is one of the many blessings since our journey started.
It is coming up on what would be Alyssa's 2nd birthday. While my heart is heavy thinking about this, it is also joyful. Joyful because we are able to share our faith and our story with those who may also have heavy hearts. It would have been impossible to go through everything that we did without God. Our faith is what drives this foundation. Our main goal is to share that faith with others and provide them with the comfort and love He gives us.
We know that there are lots of organizations you can donate to. We encourage you to help others - whether it is through our foundation or other worthy organizations. We trust that God will provide for this foundation. If you feel led to donate, please visit our website. If you are not able to make a monetary donation, we can also use new baby items (diapers, clothing, diaper bags, etc) and gift cards (gas, food). We would greatly appreciate any help you can give and all donations are tax-deductible. Prayers are also greatly appreciated!
Thank you for your support! We will be updating the blog and website a lot in July because we are getting ready for our 2nd annual 5k/10k Fun Run/Walk!
It is coming up on what would be Alyssa's 2nd birthday. While my heart is heavy thinking about this, it is also joyful. Joyful because we are able to share our faith and our story with those who may also have heavy hearts. It would have been impossible to go through everything that we did without God. Our faith is what drives this foundation. Our main goal is to share that faith with others and provide them with the comfort and love He gives us.
We know that there are lots of organizations you can donate to. We encourage you to help others - whether it is through our foundation or other worthy organizations. We trust that God will provide for this foundation. If you feel led to donate, please visit our website. If you are not able to make a monetary donation, we can also use new baby items (diapers, clothing, diaper bags, etc) and gift cards (gas, food). We would greatly appreciate any help you can give and all donations are tax-deductible. Prayers are also greatly appreciated!
Thank you for your support! We will be updating the blog and website a lot in July because we are getting ready for our 2nd annual 5k/10k Fun Run/Walk!
Monday, May 23, 2011
Here to Help
Our foundation is here to help families. Our focus is on families who have a child in the NICU but we can also help others in need. My heart goes out to those affected by the deadly tornado in Joplin. Joplin is not far away from where we live. I can't imagine what it feels like to have everything taken from you in the blink of an eye.
I feel led to help and we will be making a donation to those in need. In addition to providing gift cards to help these families we will also collect things that are needed. If you would like to help, please contact me at holdmyheartfoundation@yahoo.com or visit our website at www.holdmyheartfoudation.com. Every little bit counts!
I feel led to help and we will be making a donation to those in need. In addition to providing gift cards to help these families we will also collect things that are needed. If you would like to help, please contact me at holdmyheartfoundation@yahoo.com or visit our website at www.holdmyheartfoudation.com. Every little bit counts!
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
New Project
We went to Columbia last Wednesday to meet our third family and to deliver more cards. The exciting thing? Sarah Hill from KOMU was there to interview our sponsored family and Jamie and me. I have pictures but have not downloaded them. Our story will most likely air in May. I will post more information when I have it! I am so excited to see how it turns out. I cried during the interview and I was super nervous. But I hope that it will inspire others to help these families - whether it is through Hold My Heart or on their own initiative.
Another exciting part of this trip was that my dad was able to go. He wasn't able to come out to see Alyssa when we were in the NICU. It was really nice to see everyone. My dad was able to see Alyssa's room and meet some of the doctors and nurses that took care of her. We took Addy and she was also able to meet them. So it was a very special day in a lot of ways.
As for the new project...Dasi (the social worker) was talking about some of the new improvements coming to the NICU waiting room. I asked how the foundation can help and she suggested making care bags. So now my mission is to ask hotels in the area to donate personal care items. I will put these in a nice gift bag with our information. Dasi will hand them out to families that need it. I am super excited about this. Why didn't I think of this before? Our trip wasn't planned and we were not prepared. In fact, I think when Jamie packed (in a hurry) he didn't include personal care items. So we were in the same boat a lot of the families end up in. Another project that I would like to do eventually is to also provide disposable cameras that Dasi can hand out. Luckily Jamie had his phone or we would not have had those first precious pictures of Alyssa when she was born. But baby steps first. Maybe we can get a really great response from hotels in the area and maybe they will include cameras as well!
I will post pictures and information about our third family this week. Things have slowed down foundation wise for me but with a newborn I guess that is to be expected! Please continue to pray for the families and for our foundation to grow and touch as many families as we can.
Another exciting part of this trip was that my dad was able to go. He wasn't able to come out to see Alyssa when we were in the NICU. It was really nice to see everyone. My dad was able to see Alyssa's room and meet some of the doctors and nurses that took care of her. We took Addy and she was also able to meet them. So it was a very special day in a lot of ways.
As for the new project...Dasi (the social worker) was talking about some of the new improvements coming to the NICU waiting room. I asked how the foundation can help and she suggested making care bags. So now my mission is to ask hotels in the area to donate personal care items. I will put these in a nice gift bag with our information. Dasi will hand them out to families that need it. I am super excited about this. Why didn't I think of this before? Our trip wasn't planned and we were not prepared. In fact, I think when Jamie packed (in a hurry) he didn't include personal care items. So we were in the same boat a lot of the families end up in. Another project that I would like to do eventually is to also provide disposable cameras that Dasi can hand out. Luckily Jamie had his phone or we would not have had those first precious pictures of Alyssa when she was born. But baby steps first. Maybe we can get a really great response from hotels in the area and maybe they will include cameras as well!
I will post pictures and information about our third family this week. Things have slowed down foundation wise for me but with a newborn I guess that is to be expected! Please continue to pray for the families and for our foundation to grow and touch as many families as we can.
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Slowing Down
I am trying not to slow down but I am. I'm hoping that I can get more done when I am on maternity leave. The exciting thing is that people are ordering T-Shirts and Hoodies! Every time I see someone wearing one I get super excited! It's kind of surreal too.
Please pass on the word - if you have a picture of you in a Hold My Heart shirt email to us and we will put it on the website! Email any picture to holdmyheartfoundation@yahoo.com.
Upcoming events will be the annual walk in October. We'd like to do more before then and we have options. It is just a matter of deciding where to put our focus and what to do. I am wanting to do more in Columbia. After all, we support the NICU there.
I haven't been able to head up there to sponsor a family for this quarter. But I am hoping to do so in late April with our daughter! I am going to get a little onesie made with the logo on it. I'm looking forward to having a family outing to the NICU where her older sister was born.
Until then...I will take it easy. I am trying to figure out how to run everything and be a new mommy. Hopefully it won't take long!
Please pass on the word - if you have a picture of you in a Hold My Heart shirt email to us and we will put it on the website! Email any picture to holdmyheartfoundation@yahoo.com.
Upcoming events will be the annual walk in October. We'd like to do more before then and we have options. It is just a matter of deciding where to put our focus and what to do. I am wanting to do more in Columbia. After all, we support the NICU there.
I haven't been able to head up there to sponsor a family for this quarter. But I am hoping to do so in late April with our daughter! I am going to get a little onesie made with the logo on it. I'm looking forward to having a family outing to the NICU where her older sister was born.
Until then...I will take it easy. I am trying to figure out how to run everything and be a new mommy. Hopefully it won't take long!
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Poker Run
Has anyone been using Good Search? Yes!! We have made over $1 with people searching the internet using Good Search. So that means that people have been using it! How awesome is that? If you haven't been please do so. Whenever you search the internet use Good Search and it will give the foundation a penny. In fact, if 100 people do 2 searches a day for a year, it can raise $730. If you download their toolbar then it will also let you know what stores participate with Good Shop. I shopped at Target the other day and earned $2 for the foundation. Super easy!
The Columbia walk will be moved to next year. There is so much going on and with all the snow and inclement weather I have not been able to contact people in Columbia to get the ball rolling. The alternative? A poker run! I am super excited because it seems like not only a great way to raise awareness and raise funds for Hold My Heart but it will also be a great way to witness.
I will post more as I get more details together. Right now it is in the very beginning stages and we are trying to get sponsors for the event. It should be relatively low cost which is great but we do need prizes. Providing lunch or some snacks would also be awesome. If you have any ideas or would like to help please email me at holdmyheartfoundation@yahoo.com. We would appreciate any help!
The Columbia walk will be moved to next year. There is so much going on and with all the snow and inclement weather I have not been able to contact people in Columbia to get the ball rolling. The alternative? A poker run! I am super excited because it seems like not only a great way to raise awareness and raise funds for Hold My Heart but it will also be a great way to witness.
I will post more as I get more details together. Right now it is in the very beginning stages and we are trying to get sponsors for the event. It should be relatively low cost which is great but we do need prizes. Providing lunch or some snacks would also be awesome. If you have any ideas or would like to help please email me at holdmyheartfoundation@yahoo.com. We would appreciate any help!
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
An Easy Way to Raise Money
Our foundation relies on donations to help our families. However, donations have slowed down for us. While we have plans in the future to help raise awareness and funds, here is a super easy way to raise money for our foundation. All you have to do is go to www.goodsearch.com and search for Hold My Heart Foundation on the home page. Anytime you search the internet please use Good Search. Every search (with some restrictions) earns us money. How awesome and easy is that? It is powered by Yahoo, so it won't compromise your search results. And if you like to shop, Good Shop gives us a portion of whatever you shop for online.
Please support us by using Good Search. The more money we raise the more families we can help!
Please support us by using Good Search. The more money we raise the more families we can help!
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Tax Letters and TShirts
Hello everyone!
We are working on getting tax letters sent out. Snow days and printer problems are causing a delay. But we will get them out this week - I have a plan! :)
Coming up this month also we will take orders for tshirts and Hoodies. Pictures will be up soon. Also this month we will take our third round of gift cards and sponsor our third family! I am super excited!!
More information to follow!
We are working on getting tax letters sent out. Snow days and printer problems are causing a delay. But we will get them out this week - I have a plan! :)
Coming up this month also we will take orders for tshirts and Hoodies. Pictures will be up soon. Also this month we will take our third round of gift cards and sponsor our third family! I am super excited!!
More information to follow!
Monday, January 3, 2011
Big Things
Happy New Year! 2010 was a great year for us. God blessed us with opportunities and people who supported us to help families in Missouri. We pray that this foundation continues to be able to help others not only this year but for many!
I have a lot to do! Coming up pretty soon we will post information about a super easy way to raise funds for the foundation. We need your help! My deadline for this is in a week so please check back!
Also coming soon we will be taking orders for t-shirts and hoodies. We will post pictures of them on the website as well as here with information as to how to order these.
And to add to everything, I am going to start looking into doing a walk in Columbia in April or May! Am I crazy? Maybe. But I know that God is running this operation and I follow what He wants! Even though things are going to change in March. For those of you who do not know, I am pregnant and due in March. So we will see how everything goes trying to juggle everything!
Check back for more information! God bless and Happy New Year!
I have a lot to do! Coming up pretty soon we will post information about a super easy way to raise funds for the foundation. We need your help! My deadline for this is in a week so please check back!
Also coming soon we will be taking orders for t-shirts and hoodies. We will post pictures of them on the website as well as here with information as to how to order these.
And to add to everything, I am going to start looking into doing a walk in Columbia in April or May! Am I crazy? Maybe. But I know that God is running this operation and I follow what He wants! Even though things are going to change in March. For those of you who do not know, I am pregnant and due in March. So we will see how everything goes trying to juggle everything!
Check back for more information! God bless and Happy New Year!
Monday, December 6, 2010
Books for Babies
Our goal for December is to provide a book for every family in the NICU. I can honestly say (based on our experience) that reading to Alyssa is one of our favorite memories. We thought it was so nice to receive a new book with her footprints in it. It gave us something to say. As odd as it may sound, sometimes we just didn't know what to say to her. Reading gave us a chance for her to hear her voice and to take our minds off of finding something to say. I found that if I tried just talking to her, it usually ended up in me crying.
We are trying to get books delivered to the NICU sometime next week or the week of Christmas. We would love to provide each family a book. We are trying to get a $5 donation, which will help provide 1 book to a family. If we are make more, we would love to provide books not only to the University of Women and Children's Hospital but to the NICU in Springfield as well! If you would like to help, please visit our website. Click here to donate!
We are trying to get books delivered to the NICU sometime next week or the week of Christmas. We would love to provide each family a book. We are trying to get a $5 donation, which will help provide 1 book to a family. If we are make more, we would love to provide books not only to the University of Women and Children's Hospital but to the NICU in Springfield as well! If you would like to help, please visit our website. Click here to donate!
Friday, November 26, 2010
Thankful
The day before Thanksgiving, Jamie and I went back to Columbia to take more gift cards and meet with our second family! We were really excited that we had the opportunity to help more families. God has been so good to this foundation - we've been able to meet our goal for the next two quarters.
We were able to meet our second family, the Kennebecks. They had twin boys at 25 weeks - born mid-October. Their names are Camden and Masen and they are super cute! They will most likely be in the NICU until the end of December, but are hoping for an early release. We were able to meet and spend time with the mom, Chelsea. The dad, Michael, was in Afghanistan. I can't imagine going through all of this without my husband there. Please pray for this family as they still have a long journey ahead of them! Here is a picture Chelsea and her boys.
Our friends donated the diaper bag and everything in it (to include adorable monogrammed onesies!). Thank you Matt and Erica!
We were able to meet our second family, the Kennebecks. They had twin boys at 25 weeks - born mid-October. Their names are Camden and Masen and they are super cute! They will most likely be in the NICU until the end of December, but are hoping for an early release. We were able to meet and spend time with the mom, Chelsea. The dad, Michael, was in Afghanistan. I can't imagine going through all of this without my husband there. Please pray for this family as they still have a long journey ahead of them! Here is a picture Chelsea and her boys.
Our friends donated the diaper bag and everything in it (to include adorable monogrammed onesies!). Thank you Matt and Erica!
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Mary Kay offer
I've been praying for some fundraising ideas and one landed in my email! Carrie Kuster was my nurse when I was in the hospital when Alyssa was born. She is a wonderful person and I truly appreciate her generous offer! Please pass this around!
Here is what Carrie is offering...
For the month of November when you place a Mary Kay order with me (Carrie Kuster) and say you are doing it on the behalf of the Hold My Heart Foundation, I will be donating 60% of my earnings to the foundation and covering your shipping costs!! What a great way to do some holiday shopping and support a great foundation!
You can place your order by messaging me on Facebook or visiting my website at www.marykay.com/carrie.kuster31
I have gifts for all the ladies and men too! Lots of great cologne's, perfumes, body washes, lotions, skin care, and makeup options to choose from!
Please feel free to email me with any questions.
God Bless!
Carrie Kuster
Mary Kay
Independent Beauty Consultant
website: www.marykay.com/carrie.kuster31
email: carrie.kuster31@marykay.com
The holidays are right around the corner! Order today and help families in Missouri!
Here is what Carrie is offering...
For the month of November when you place a Mary Kay order with me (Carrie Kuster) and say you are doing it on the behalf of the Hold My Heart Foundation, I will be donating 60% of my earnings to the foundation and covering your shipping costs!! What a great way to do some holiday shopping and support a great foundation!
You can place your order by messaging me on Facebook or visiting my website at www.marykay.com/carrie.kuster31
I have gifts for all the ladies and men too! Lots of great cologne's, perfumes, body washes, lotions, skin care, and makeup options to choose from!
Please feel free to email me with any questions.
God Bless!
Carrie Kuster
Mary Kay
Independent Beauty Consultant
website: www.marykay.com/carrie.kuster31
email: carrie.kuster31@marykay.com
The holidays are right around the corner! Order today and help families in Missouri!
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Long Time No News
Well since the walk is finished it has been pretty quiet here. We are planning another fundraiser to occur in December - another raffle - but other than that it has been administrative work. The walk/raffle was awesome! We made a little over $3,000 and mostly everything was donated. How amazing is God? We have enough for gift cards, for sponsoring a family, and for scholarships. We would like to wrap some books to give the families around the holidays and we have money for that too! So exciting!
We are looking to visit the NICU in Columbia again the week of Thanksgiving. It is just easier this way because I have 3 days off of work and that way I don't have to miss any more work. I just hope that Jamie will be able to go with me but he will start another class Friday.
We have a lot of momentum and I hope that we continue to keep it moving! I don't want to lose it and I have an appointment with someone who has fundraising ideas for the foundation. I am really excited and hope that we will continue to reach others who have a heart for this foundation. I hope that our foundation inspires others to help - whether it is our foundation or an organization that is close to their hearts.
We are looking to visit the NICU in Columbia again the week of Thanksgiving. It is just easier this way because I have 3 days off of work and that way I don't have to miss any more work. I just hope that Jamie will be able to go with me but he will start another class Friday.
We have a lot of momentum and I hope that we continue to keep it moving! I don't want to lose it and I have an appointment with someone who has fundraising ideas for the foundation. I am really excited and hope that we will continue to reach others who have a heart for this foundation. I hope that our foundation inspires others to help - whether it is our foundation or an organization that is close to their hearts.
Monday, October 4, 2010
Our First Event!
Our first Hold My Heart benefit walk was this Saturday. We had 150 people there - either walking or helping out. It wasn't easy but God provided us with a successful first event and with wonderful people who supported us. I can't tell you how many people dedicated their time and money to help us out. It's so awesome to see people come together to help others. That's what this foundation is all about. God has blessed us so much with this foundation to glorify Him and remember our sweet daughter.
Here's a recap of the day: We woke up super early to get things done. Jamie went with his good friends to set up and I went with my good friend for the event to try to pick up some coffee for the volunteers. Unfortunately that did not work out at Starbucks. Kinda funny - I called ahead asking for 2 coffee-to-gos and when we got there the lady thought we meant 2 coffees to go. But with a quick call to another friend we were able to get some coffee.
Once we got to the community center, we started setting up all the registration stuff and the tables. Before 8:00 we had people coming to sign-up that day! Pretty soon it got pretty hectic with people checking in. Note for next year: Have 2 tables. Live and learn.
Spirit FM got there and started setting up. It was awesome that they were able to come out. We were able to get a live broadcast so people could hear about our event.
At 9:00 they were off! It was so awesome to see everyone start off. There were some hard core people there! After the runners started I went with Fred, the DJ from Spirit FM, and did an interview. I was nervous but it went well. Hopefully people heard it and visited the website. The more we get out there the better for this foundation and the families that we help.
In about 30 minutes the first few people started to come in. As I talked more with Fred, more and more people came in. A couple of hours later the last person came in and it was time to draw for the door prizes and raffle! Thanks to a good friend we had a ton of door prizes. She was able to go out the day before and get us awesome tool prizes. For a complete list of our sponsors please visit our website at www.holdmyheartfoundation. We will also get pictures of the event up at the website as well as on our Facebook page.
It was so awesome. You never know what will happen in life but one thing is for sure. God loves you and will help you through anything. We've had a rough year but the positive has outweighed the negative. Thank you too all of our family, friends, sponsors, and participants who helped make our first event a success. We'll see you next year!
Here's a recap of the day: We woke up super early to get things done. Jamie went with his good friends to set up and I went with my good friend for the event to try to pick up some coffee for the volunteers. Unfortunately that did not work out at Starbucks. Kinda funny - I called ahead asking for 2 coffee-to-gos and when we got there the lady thought we meant 2 coffees to go. But with a quick call to another friend we were able to get some coffee.
Once we got to the community center, we started setting up all the registration stuff and the tables. Before 8:00 we had people coming to sign-up that day! Pretty soon it got pretty hectic with people checking in. Note for next year: Have 2 tables. Live and learn.
Spirit FM got there and started setting up. It was awesome that they were able to come out. We were able to get a live broadcast so people could hear about our event.
At 9:00 they were off! It was so awesome to see everyone start off. There were some hard core people there! After the runners started I went with Fred, the DJ from Spirit FM, and did an interview. I was nervous but it went well. Hopefully people heard it and visited the website. The more we get out there the better for this foundation and the families that we help.
In about 30 minutes the first few people started to come in. As I talked more with Fred, more and more people came in. A couple of hours later the last person came in and it was time to draw for the door prizes and raffle! Thanks to a good friend we had a ton of door prizes. She was able to go out the day before and get us awesome tool prizes. For a complete list of our sponsors please visit our website at www.holdmyheartfoundation. We will also get pictures of the event up at the website as well as on our Facebook page.
It was so awesome. You never know what will happen in life but one thing is for sure. God loves you and will help you through anything. We've had a rough year but the positive has outweighed the negative. Thank you too all of our family, friends, sponsors, and participants who helped make our first event a success. We'll see you next year!
Monday, August 30, 2010
Heartbreak and Joy
Today is Alyssa's first birthday. It truly breaks my heart but at the same time this is the day that God blessed us with her. I can't help but cry and at the same time rejoice.
One year ago our world was turned upside down. I was flown to Columbia for an emergency C-section not knowing whether I would ever see my little girl alive. But God gave us time with her and I am so thankful for that.
We got to see how she always wanted her left foot outside of her snuglet. Every time the nurse would put it back in, she would always find a way to stick it back out. We got to see how she wanted to know everything that was going on. If someone came into the room she would always look. One day she started to get upset at a doctor who she could not see. That's when I realized that I had a feisty little one on my hands (FLO for short). We were able to read to her, to sing to her, and to place one giant finger in her tiny hand. We had really good days and really bad days. We were told that she wouldn't make it but she made it 11 days more than what they thought. Our little girl was a fighter and an inspiration to many. My little girl, my precious angel who would be turning 1 today.
How my heart aches. I should be choosing her party outfit and theme. I know one day we will be together and for that, my heart rejoices. I like to think that when that happens we'll have the biggest, awesomest party ever. I mean, Jesus and my little girl will be there and that in itself makes it awesome!
So Happy Birthday, my sweet little girl. We love you so much!
One year ago our world was turned upside down. I was flown to Columbia for an emergency C-section not knowing whether I would ever see my little girl alive. But God gave us time with her and I am so thankful for that.
We got to see how she always wanted her left foot outside of her snuglet. Every time the nurse would put it back in, she would always find a way to stick it back out. We got to see how she wanted to know everything that was going on. If someone came into the room she would always look. One day she started to get upset at a doctor who she could not see. That's when I realized that I had a feisty little one on my hands (FLO for short). We were able to read to her, to sing to her, and to place one giant finger in her tiny hand. We had really good days and really bad days. We were told that she wouldn't make it but she made it 11 days more than what they thought. Our little girl was a fighter and an inspiration to many. My little girl, my precious angel who would be turning 1 today.
How my heart aches. I should be choosing her party outfit and theme. I know one day we will be together and for that, my heart rejoices. I like to think that when that happens we'll have the biggest, awesomest party ever. I mean, Jesus and my little girl will be there and that in itself makes it awesome!
So Happy Birthday, my sweet little girl. We love you so much!
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Generosity
Today was the first day of walk registration and raffle ticket sales. Yesterday, Jamie and I ran around getting things ready. Procrastination? A little. We bought a canopy to stand under, flyers to hand out to people walking into Wal-Mart, a cash box, and poster board.
We went to church this morning and during service I said a prayer. I asked God to open people's hearts to our foundation and to please let us get 10 people to register for the walk and 100 raffle tickets sold.
We left church and went to Wal-Mart to set up. We had everything but the TV out for display and started handing out flyers (thank you Zach, Chris, Amber, Josh, and Heather!). At first, many people were interested in the raffle. But as time passed, some of the people who were working at the doors started to bring money. People were giving us donations - I hadn't really counted on that! It was just nice to know that there are so many caring people out there.
We met a lot of awesome people this afternoon. For those of you who came out to support us, thank you so much!
God provided for us and then some! We had donations and t-shirt sales as well as 12 registrants and waaay more than 100 raffle tickets. Our total today was three times what we expected - isn't God so amazing? I honestly can't say that enough.
We went to church this morning and during service I said a prayer. I asked God to open people's hearts to our foundation and to please let us get 10 people to register for the walk and 100 raffle tickets sold.
We left church and went to Wal-Mart to set up. We had everything but the TV out for display and started handing out flyers (thank you Zach, Chris, Amber, Josh, and Heather!). At first, many people were interested in the raffle. But as time passed, some of the people who were working at the doors started to bring money. People were giving us donations - I hadn't really counted on that! It was just nice to know that there are so many caring people out there.
We met a lot of awesome people this afternoon. For those of you who came out to support us, thank you so much!
God provided for us and then some! We had donations and t-shirt sales as well as 12 registrants and waaay more than 100 raffle tickets. Our total today was three times what we expected - isn't God so amazing? I honestly can't say that enough.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
A New School Year
It's been awhile. I took a little bit of a vacay...I didn't go anywhere but my family was visiting and I wanted to spend time with them! I haven't stopped completely - the walk and raffle are always on my mind. Especially since our first day of raffle sales is this Sunday at Wal-Mart. Can I just say how fast time flies?
A week ago I was invited to speak at a Rotary Club meeting. I met some really awesome people. God never fails to to introduce us to the right people at the right time. I know I say that a lot but it is so true! Some days I don't know what direction to go but with God directing our path I know it will be right.
Just please pray for me now that a new school year has started! Balancing work for the foundation, work and church activities may end up with me losing my mind! If you are interested in purchasing a raffle ticket, please stop by the St. Robert Wal-Mart Sunday from 11-3!
A week ago I was invited to speak at a Rotary Club meeting. I met some really awesome people. God never fails to to introduce us to the right people at the right time. I know I say that a lot but it is so true! Some days I don't know what direction to go but with God directing our path I know it will be right.
Just please pray for me now that a new school year has started! Balancing work for the foundation, work and church activities may end up with me losing my mind! If you are interested in purchasing a raffle ticket, please stop by the St. Robert Wal-Mart Sunday from 11-3!
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Planning...
I've had to change the date of our walk three times. Frustrating to say the least but I know that there are going to be challenges. The biggest challenge? Finding sponsors. But I know that God will lead us to where He wants us to go.
There are a lot of exciting things coming up. We will have a raffle in August and September before the walk. So far we will have a TV, Coach purse, and 2 beautiful quilts (thank you Heather!!). I will post more online on the website once we have everything in order. I think we will start selling the tickets in mid-August.
I feel like I have so much to do and not enough time! I know that I just need to let God take control of this. It's been such a long, hard road but I trust that it is what God wants from us. I just have to remember this when I feel overwhelmed with all this planning!!
There are a lot of exciting things coming up. We will have a raffle in August and September before the walk. So far we will have a TV, Coach purse, and 2 beautiful quilts (thank you Heather!!). I will post more online on the website once we have everything in order. I think we will start selling the tickets in mid-August.
I feel like I have so much to do and not enough time! I know that I just need to let God take control of this. It's been such a long, hard road but I trust that it is what God wants from us. I just have to remember this when I feel overwhelmed with all this planning!!
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