Giving Back

I can't believe now I'm writing to an actual "future kid." Your dad and I have been too busy the last few months to blog since I got pregnant and we've been giddy, nervous, busy, etc. ever since. But all the more important to get back to this blog to you since you'll be here in less than 6 months!

There is this show your dad and I used to watch called American Idol. Before the economy tanked, they used to do this thing called "Idol Gives Back," where they donate a huge sum of money to a charitable cause. So whenever we give to a charity or something, your dad always jokingly says, "Idol gives back!" I know, he's so cheesy.

Anyway, we usually like to give to a number of charitable organizations here and there, but we haven't really made a conscious effort to do so. Lately we've been doing pretty well financially, despite the economy, so your dad suggested that every month we pick a cause to give money to instead of sinking it all into a donation to the Catholic church on Sundays. I mean, we still give a little money when we go to mass, but we realize there are so many other important causes to support.

It made me really warm inside to think that I'm with someone that feels like I do about supporting causes and giving back. Thing is, even when you have it really bad or you think your life is hard, someone out there probably has it a lot harder. I whine about work, being busy and tired, not saving enough, having spent too much on our home, needing a new car, etc. At the same time, I have enough food, a really nice roof over my head, a great job, and most importantly, the love and support of my family and friends. So, good for your dad for recognizing all that and suggesting that we give back.

Now I can stop the complaining and start contemplating where we can help instead!