Day 334: Small Business Saturday

We made it! Fortunately, we made it through another crazy Black Friday. Today is obviously Saturday and the day after Black Friday, but it is also Small Business Saturday. In Tri-Cities, we are lucky to have many local and thriving businesses. However, they would not be so successful if they didn't have such loyal customers. Today those customers are encouraged to shop locally and support small businesses.

                         

I decided to take part and shop at a locally owned boutique that I adore. It is called Pink Pearl and was recently opened this summer. The clothes are not only adorable, but affordable. It is located in the Parkway in Richland and if you are in that neck of the woods, I highly encourage you to take a peak in. You can find them on Facebook!

                         

God bless,

Kailee

Day 333: Candy Cane Craziness

We all know what day it is, Black Friday. This typically means one thing…crazy shoppers. I have never been one to fight the crowds and go out on Black Friday, but I did today. However, I wasn't out and about to get my Christmas shopping done early, but instead to spread a little christmas cheer and take away from the craziness.

                               

I bought 5 boxes of candy canes (60 pieces) and left for the mall. My mom and I walked up and down the mall for two hours finding both shoppers and employees that looked like they needed something to sweeten their day. A few recipients were hesitant to take candy from strangers, but the rest graciously accepted the candy cane with a smile and a "thank you." We even got a, "Merry Christmas," from time to time. It was a perfect way to transition into the Christmas season. I wanted to try, if even for a second, to deter away from the buying part of the season and focus on the giving part. Too often we lose ourselves in the gifts and goods, that we need to step back, again if even for a second, and remember what the season is truly about.

                       

God bless,

Kailee

Day 332: Gave Thanks

Happy Thanksgiving! I hope everyone is having a very blessed day and I hope we all truly take a moment to express what we are thankful for. If I have learned something this year, it is I don't say thank you enough and I have plenty to be grateful for.

I am thankful for my family.
My mom, my dad, my brother, my grandparents and my extended family. Each member of my family has taught me something different and valuable about life. Their unconditional love never ceases to amaze me. A girl could not ask for a better support system. I can honestly say that I am who I am today because of them. They are a large reason for why I have pushed through this year and continued my blog. I am so lucky to call them all mine, even when they shoot milk out of their nose at dinner. ;)

I am thankful for my friends.
Outside of my blood family, I am so blessed to have several other friends that I could call family. My roommates and I, for example, have known each other for years and although we may have our tiffs from time to time they really are my family. I can't begin to describe how our relationship works, but I can always count on them to laugh until my stomach hurts.  

My friends understand me. They accept me, appreciate me, and always have my back. I know a lot of people grow apart from their childhood friends, but fortunately the majority of my friends I have known since elementary and middle school. In fact, my very first friend in the Tri-Cities and I are still really close after 15 years. I love them all and I don't think they realize how much I appreciate them.

I am thankful for my sisters.
After joining Gamma Phi Beta in March, my whole entire college experience changed for the better. The women in my sisterhood continue to inspire me on a daily basis. In the very short time I have been a member, I have already learned so much about myself, about others and about life in genreal. I thank the Lord everyday for the relationships I have made with these women and look forward to how they will continue to grow. Its a rare thing to be able to look at a group of people and think I can count on them for the rest of my life. Our bond is something that no one else really understands, but to me that  makes our sisterhood so precious. IIKE

I am thankful for my education and my school.
Too often I find myself or hear someone else complaining about homework or a particular teacher on campus. The truth is, I love being an eagle! The fact that I am even allowed to further my education and expand my knowledge is amazing. I think it's one of the most taken for granted things in our country. People all over the world would give so much to be where I am and for that I am truly grateful. The majority of my teachers have inspired me to follow my aspirations and get me that much closer to graduation. The campus is rich with history and the facilities on campus are beautiful. Eastern gives their students many reasons to be thankful and…our football team/ field aren't half bad either. ;)

I am thankful for the Miss America Organization.
If you would have told me just 4 years back that I would be a titleholder in the Miss America Organization, I would have told you, you were crazy. However, taking a chance and competing for Miss Tri-Cities 3 years ago was one of the greatest chances I have ever taken. Not only has this organization inspired bigger and better goals to pursue, but it has also given me the skills and tools I need to pursue them. In addition, I have made lifelong relationships that have taken me all across the state and country! I am a much stronger woman today because of the Miss America Organization and all of their values that they uphold. I also appreciate Oreos a lot more. ;)

I am thankful for sports.
Not only have sports instilled in me determination, teamwork and passion, but they have also helped to keep my body able and healthy. I am grateful for my body and things sports has allowed me to do. I have been involved sports since I can't remember when and some of my greatest moments and most proud moments were made playing a simple game. Some people think it's just that, a game, however, what you take away from the game is something that could never be taught in school. Even though I am not necessarily the player anymore, sports still continue to give me something to look forward to. I hope to pursue a a career in public relations working for a professional sports team and I am excited to see where it may take me.

I am thankful for our troops.
I am proud to be an American. I am grateful for my freedom. Our country and our freedom would not be possible without those men and women who are not with their families today because they are protecting me and mine. No words will ever express my gratitude for our soldiers.

Most of all, I am thankful that years ago a particular son of God died for all of my sins. In doing so, I am so blessed with everything I listed above. Also, thank you for all of your beautiful creations. Glory be to God in the highest!

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Kailee 

Day 331: A Thanksgiving For The Dogs

On the eve of Thanksgiving, I sit here thinking about all of the things I am grateful for and how much God has blessed me with. I am definitely looking forward to seeing my family and stuffing myself with my grandma's delicious cooking, but part of me knows that there is still more I could be doing to make someone else's thanksgiving better. I tried to find a place to donate a thanksgiving dinner to a family in need and had no luck. Then, I thought about how I have wanted to help at a humane society. Although I didn't have time to actually hang out with the puppies, I found another way to give back.

My mom and I ran to the store and bought some dog food and treats and delivered them to the closest humane society. Although they weren't open, I left the goodies on the doorstep with a note that read, "everyone deserves a delicious meal on Thanksgiving!" I know it wasn't much, but hopefully a volunteer will appreciate the donations and the dogs will enjoy the treats.

Have a very blessed Thanksgiving and don't be afraid to express what you are truly grateful for!

God bless,

Kailee

Day 330: Typhoon Relief

As I have mentioned before, it is the time of the year to give, especially to those in need. Recently, the Phillipines was struck by a nasty typhoon. They need help and there are many ways that you can text a number to give $10. This article has all of the information to donate.

USA Today Article

In addition, iTunes has just released a special CD in which all proceeds will be donated to the Philippine Red Cross. The CD has songs from everyone's favorites. Several artists are The Beatles, Lady Gaga, Beyonce, One Direction, Josh Groban, and many more!

Day 329: Why not?

Before I dive in, I need to preface the story for you. About 3 weeks ago, a friend of mine expressed her adoration for country singer, Scotty McCreery. It wasn't but a few days later that we then learned he would be in town on November 25. He would be playing a FREE concert in Spokane. The catch? The only way to get into his show was to win tickets from a radio station. Disheartened, but still optimistic, my friend Logan and I tried to win tickets, but we had no such luck. Then, on the other hand, I must say I am a pretty cautious person. I am not one to take large risks because it actually scares the crap out of me…but I am working on it.

Today finally rolls around and we are all at a friends house for a friendsgiving (Thanksgiving with friends) dinner. Logan was disappointed that she didn't win tickets but hey you don't win them all, right? Then a spark of hope! Another friend at the dinner announces that a friend of hers was at the movie theatre and Scotty was there to watch a movie. Now, keep in mind that while Spokane is a large city with multiple theaters, the outlying areas are vastly smaller and there is only one theatre in Airway Heights with about 8 screens in the theatre. This just so happened to be where Scotty chose to see a movie…most likely to avoid crazy fans (whoops)!

As we sat in the living room, talk started about how cool it would be to be at the movies with him and what are the odds that he is there? Several girls said with a joking manner, lets go find him. Then I finally say, "No seriously. Why don't we go to the theatre. If we see him..great. If not then we get to see a movie." There was a slight moment of hesitation, then a little freak out and then before I knew it 4 other girls and I were in my car and headed to the theatre.

When arriving at the theatre, we had a 1/8 chance of choosing the right theatre. Well, just like that…strike 1, 2 and 3. We may have been down, but not out. We finally settled into Catching Fire. As mentioned before, if we couldn't meet him, the least I was going to do was enjoy a movie. After sitting still for a good hour, my friend Mallory gets up to use the restroom. However, when she returns her whole demeanor has changed. She comes bounding up the theatre stairs and motions for us to come with her. Scotty's movie had just let out and it was now or never to say hello. Except it would seem that we all lost our voices (and courage) and couldn't get the words out. Finally, I think to myself it is now OR never and shyly say, "umm Scotty…may we get a picture with you?" From there on out, it was all great because we were able to say hello and take a picture. Logan was dying and still probably is…I may need to check on her in the morning! ;)

Overall, he was very sweet and courteous. However, meeting Scotty is not the act of the day. The act of kindness is somewhat for myself and somewhat for others. Too often in life we ask, why? When truly the question to living a full life should be, why not? Although every bone in my body was telling me to stay in the comfort of the nice apartment, my gut was telling me to take a chance and just drive. Although, I couldn't find the words to ask for a picture, my heart was telling me it was all going to be ok. And I found that when I stepped up to the plate it eased the situation and allowed others to step up too.

I guess what I am trying to say is, what is life living in the safety of your comfort zone? Do a favor for yourself and live outside…no better yet just destroy that box. When you do, you may just inspire someone to do the same. One of my favorite quotes is "simply live, don't just exist."

God bless,

Kailee 

P.S. Thanks for being so understanding Scotty! 

Day 328: Donated Toys

It's the most wonderful time of the year! Well, close enough anyways. It is also the most wonderful time to donate toys. So many organizations are now accepting donations for families that can't afford toys for the holidays. One organization that I was able to donate to is the popular Toys for Tots. Several buildings on campus have set out bins for donations. When I was at Bi-Mart, I picked up a pack of Play Dough and donated it.

        

The other organization I donated to was Operation Homefront. This is an organization run through the Dollar Tree and collects toys for families who family member is deployed in the military. As I was shopping around at the dollar store, I saw a bin of toys. When checking out, the man at the register explained what it was and asked if I would like to donate a dollar for a toy. I got to choose an adorable teddy bear for donation.

                                                  

So, keep your eye out and give a gift to someone who may not get one otherwise.

God bless,

Kailee

Day 327: Girls On The Run 5K

Early this morning, 25 of my sorority sisters and I drove to Tri-Cities to help with the Jingle Bell Run/ Girls on the Run 5K. We spray painted girl's hair, served hot chocolate and hosted a pancake feed for all of the runners. 

Overall, we had so much fun. We served tons of pancakes and over 200 other girls running in the 5k! It was an incredible day spent with my sisters. We are women building strong girls. 

Day 326: Blanket Drive

As I was walking through campus today, I noticed that yhere were several bins out that publicized for a blanket drive in Cheney. The schools psychology department was accepting donations of hats, scarves, and blankets for the youth in Spokane.  

After seeing the bins, I ran to Bimart where they have tons of inexpensive throw blankets for sale and bought one. If I read the flyer correctly, they are accepting donations until March. 

Day 325: In the name of Zach

Well, as a I was perusing about on Facebook, as I do daily, I came across a video that a friend of mine had posted. It was an uplifting documentary about a teenage boy who was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer and was told he only had a few months to live. The documentary is about his final days and shares his incredible outlook on life and also spotlights his loved ones. My favorite quote from the documentary is "this stuff is not happening because you are dying, it's really because of the way you're living."

Below is the documentary. If you do have a half an hour to spare, I highly recommend watching this. But, grab your tissues because this is a tear jerker. I won't lie, I cried like a baby. 

My Last Days 

Just below the video on the website I watched it on is a link to the Childrens Cancer Research Fund, where you can donate in Zach's name. Never have I ever met this boy, but he has inspired me to be a better person and to live my life a little more. The least I can do is give back in the name of my inspiration. 

Zach also wrote and recorded a song called, "Clouds." Below is the link for the video.

Clouds

"There are only two days in the year that nothing can be done. One is called yesterday and the other is called tomorrow, so today is the right day to love, believe, do and mostly live."

-Dalai Lama 

God bless,

Kailee

Day 324: Women's Luncheon

Bozzi Media is owner to many different restaurants, businesses and magazines. One of their magazines is Spokane Couer d' Alene Woman. This morning this specific magazine hosted a luncheon, which some of the proceeds will be donated to typhoon relief in the Philippines. The keynote speaker AND singer was "America's Got Talent" top 6 finalist and Spokane's very own, Cami Bradley. (Side note- She is incredible!!)

                             

A few days ago, a friend of mine asked if I would help with the event. Not really sure what to expect, but intrigued by the thought, I gladly volunteered. She and I made decorations, checked guests in and showed them to their tables. I had a great time and listening to Cami sing wasn't half bad either! ;)

God bless,

Kailee

Day 323: Charity Miles

This morning my mom found this really cool app that I wanted to share with all of you! The app is called Charity Miles and essential every time you work out and record it on the app, Charity Miles will donate money to one of the charities they support. The video I have attached does an even better job of describing this incredible tool.

About Charity Miles

Another great thing about this app is it is free at the Apple and Android app store! So, here is a quick recap. You are paying no money to buy the app, plus you are working out to benefit your body and then recording it to benefit others. That is like a win-win-win. You can learn even more about Charity Miles by clicking here.

God bless, 

Kailee

Day 322: Blessings Under The Bridge

This evening some sisters and I had the opportunity to help some Campfire USA girls make tie blankets for Blessings Under the Bridge. The Campfire girls are challenging kids at school to donate gloves, hats, and blankets to this organization. Blessings Under the Bridge is a 501©3 in Spokane and was founded in 2007. They clothe, feed, love and serve those who are homeless in the Spokane area.

We made six tie blankets in addition to a box for donations and signs for the girls to place around their school. I actually think we broke the record for how quickly we were able to bust out six blankets. While some girls were cutting, others were tying. Overall, we had incredible teamwork and had a great time! It was so nice to make a connection with Campfire and help a great cause in the process.

God bless,

Kailee 

Day 321: St. Judes Donation

In my opinion, not many things go better together than football and pizza. That's why some friends and I ordered a couple pizzas from Dominos during the Seahawks game this afternoon. I ordered the pizza online at dominos.com. If you order online, you can personalize your pizza however you would like it and can see your total on a right hand side bar as you go. When your order is ready to go you can pay with a credit card. However, Dominos does something a little different. In addition to your total, you have the opportunity of adding $1, $2, $5, $10, or $20 to your order. Your donation will then be donated to St. Jude Children's Hospital. I thought it was such a good idea and I just had to add a donation to my order. So, next time if you're thinking pizza, maybe try Dominos. And if you do decide to go the Dominos route, maybe then consider donating to St. Jude. I know every dollar counts.

God bless,

Kailee

Day 320: Bought A Birthday Dinner

No birthday girl should ever have to buy their birthday dinner. Of course, I was glad to pay for my sister, Renee's, birthday dinner. Happy birthday Renee! 

Day 319: World Wildlife Fund

I have wanted to do this for a really long time, but I finally adopted an endangered species from the World Wildlife Fund. Personally, I am a fan of the panda bear so I decided to adopt a panda. There are different ways to adopt an animal. They include; buying a bucket full of stuffed animals, buying apparel and gifts or simply donating money to adopt an animal and save their species. There are currently 112 species just waiting to be adopted.

God bless,

Kailee

Day 318: Pizza With A Purpose

Papa John's pizza partnered with the Tri-City Cancer Foundation for one day only to raise money for cancer research. For each pizza sold tonight, 20% of the proceeds would be donated to the Cancer Foundation. In addition, Tri-City Americans players and former players were at Papa John's to serve the pizza. My family bought a scrumptious pizza to enjoy and donated while doing so.

God bless,

Kailee

Day 317: World Kindness Day

As mentioned on Facebook earlier, today is World Kindness Day. On this day, the Random Act of Kindness Foundation has presented 10 different ways to celebrate World Kindness Day. They included:

1. Compliment the first three people you talk to.
2. Write a hand-written note to a teacher.
3. Say good morning to the person next to you on the elevator.
4. Pick up litter. Spend 10 minutes cleaning a park or your neighborhood.
5. Place uplifting notes in library books, on restroom mirrors, on someone's locker, or on their computer screen.
6. Dedicate 24 hours to spreading positivity on social media.
7. Hold up inspiring signs during rush hour.
8. Leave a generous tip.
9. Send flowers to a friend.
10. Set an alarm to go off three times on World Kindness Day. When the alarm sounds, stop what you're doing a call/text/email someone simply to tell them how awesome they are.

 I challenged others to complete something on the list as I attempted to complete at least 5 of them. I was able to do 5 and hopefully I will have a chance to complete the 5 others later. I complimented at least 3 people, said good morning to the person sitting next to me in class, tried to dedicate 24 hours to spread positivity on social media, left a generous tip, and wrote a hand written note to a teacher. Although the RAK Foundation encouraged others to the 10 acts today, it is never too late to complete them! Do them tomorrow if you didn't get a chance today. 

Day 316: Heroes At Home

After all the talk yesterday about veterans and our soldiers, I began to think about the holidays and how hard it must be to not have a family member there to spend it with. I began to do a little Google searching and came across something Sears does called, "Heroes at Home."Each year they ask for donations to help provide gifts for families with a deployed military member. Since the beginning in 2007, they raised a whopping $18 million and helped over 100,000 families.

Donations are being accepted until November 22. To donate, click this link. According to the website, 100% of the funds helps families to buy practical gifts, clothing and holiday decorations. As the holidays roll around, I always think about how blessed I am. This holiday season, why not donate to a family who is making that blessing a reality?

God bless,

Kailee 

Day 315: Thanked A Vet

This post is probably expected, as it should be on a day like this. Today is Veteran's Day. A day that I looked at as a child as a day off of school. Later, I would learn that today is so much more beyond that. Today is a day in which we all pour out our love and affection for those who have served or are serving in the armed forces. A day in which Veterans should feel so appreciated. That all is so worth it and each solider deserves this love and so much more. Every day should be Veterans Day.

A lot of people took to Facebook to thank our vets which is much appreciated I am sure. However, I wanted to make it a little more personal, so I contacted all of those who have served and are serving that I knew and thanked them for their time. Although the day is coming to a close, it is never ever too late to say thank you. Throughout the year, I have learned how incredible the power of words can be. There is a lot of power behind those two small words. Even if it is tomorrow or a week from now, take those opportunities to tell someone you appreciate them. I am sure you will never regret it.

There are many ways to say thank you. For example, there are many websites designed to helping our troops. If you would like to help out, I encourage googling options like, "thank a vet," or "thank a solider."

"What do you say to the ones who've given it all
Put their lives on the line when duty calls
How do you give back to those who give up everything
What do you do when you look them in the eyes 
When you know they made that sacrifice
When words aren't enough to tell 'em just what you're feeling
That's a time when the least that you can do is just say 
Thank You"

God bless,

Kailee

Day 314: Help End Hunger

As mentioned a few days back, this is the time of the year when opportunities start popping up left and right to give back. Also, popping up more are chances to donate food to food banks, just in time of the holidays.

                                             

While doing a little grocery shopping this evening, I came across a pile of brown bags that said, "Help End Hunger." Inside the bags were $10 worth of canned foods and other non-perishable items. Shoppers are encouraged to pick up a bag at the register and Safeway will donate the food to a local food bank. So, when I was ringing up I grabbed a bag and the food inside will be donated to the Cheney food bank.

God bless,

Kailee

Day 313: 100 Cars for Good

Toyota is currently running a very cool campaign in which they are giving out 2 cars a day for 50 days to non profit organizations across the country. On this website, you are able to vote for 2 out of 5 non profits a day. Those 5 particular non profits will only be opening to votes for 24 hours, so every vote counts! Once that day is done, the top 2 non profits for that day will receive a Toyota of their preference.

Yesterday, Toyota donated a Tundra to the Habitat for Humanity in Tri-Cities. This is how I came across the idea. Today, 5 new non profits are up and open. They are currently on day 41 of their 50 day challenge, so with just a few days left I highly encourage you to vote.

God bless,

Kailee

Day 312: Hunger For Hope

Thanksgiving is just around the corner which means one thing for most people. Food. However, there are those that are not as fortunate as others. Some will be grateful to just have something to eat for the day. Luckily, there are always ways to give back and provide food for others.

                                          

This afternoon at Albertson's there was this can sitting by the register. Just like it says, spare change could help to feed a family this upcoming holiday season. It is amazing how far a little change can go. Keep your eyes open for opportunities to give back this holiday season! I am sure there are plenty chances out there

God bless,

Kailee 

Day 311: Supported A Friend

This evening a friend of mine who is an aspiring singer/songwriter played a set at a local coffee shop in town. Some of my sisters and I braved the rain and wind storm and trekked down to where he was playing. The place was packed with eager faces waiting to hear him. It was the first time I had seen him play. He did an excellent job and I am so glad I was there to support him.

                                         

God bless,

Kailee

Day 310: Thank You Movement

Applebee's is doing something exciting and honorable for our veterans this upcoming Monday. Veterans will eat free at any Applebee's location across the country. Their website, Thank You Movement, is dedicated to showing our appreciation for our vets. On the main page of the site, anyone can write thank you notes. At this moment they have received 4,593,802 thank you messages. Well, 4,593,803 after I finish my thank you.

In addition, Gavin Degraw will be playing a free concert for veterans in the most thankful city in America. All you have to do is to write your thank you note and vote the Applebee's nearest you. How cool would that be if he actually visited somewhere near us?

God bless our troops

& God bless you,

Kailee

Day 309: "One Life" For Pencils of Promise

As my year comes to a close, it never ceases to amaze me how many opportunities there are to give back and how many people are willing to give back. For example, I was on my YouTube channel when I found a recently uploaded song by one of my favorite bands, Boyce Avenue. The title of the video caught my attention because not only did it state the title, but it also read "Charity Single." I was very interested, so I clicked on the video. First off I love the song. Second, I learned that it was not only a song by Boyce Avenue, but in fact a collaboration of about 15 other YouTube sensations. Third, I learned that by purchasing this song on iTunes, Amazon, etc. 100% of the proceeds will be donated to Pencils of Promise.

Pencils of Promise is an organization dedicated to providing children a quality education. Their website explains that they "build schools, programs and global communities around the common goal of education for all." One hundred percent of their funds earned goes into building a brighter future for a child. You can learn more about Pencils of Promise by clicking here.

Below is the music video. Watch it and then goes purchase the song on iTunes!

(I love this song!)

God bless,

Kailee

Day 308: Help The Broncos Or Bust

When walking into Walmart today, I couldn't help but notice a group of adorable children dressed in orange and blue. The young boys were in football jerseys, while the young girls were in cheerleading outfits. As I got closer, I realized that they were holding signs and chocolate. I then pieced together that they were trying to raise money for a trip. They were selling World's Finest chocolate bars for $1 in hopes to raise enough money to go to Florida. Of course I had to help and hey I got a chocolate bar in return! Go baby broncos!

Day 307: Football Frenxi

Today was a day all about football. I believe I have mentioned it before, but every sorority on campus has a national philanthropy in which they support however they'd like. Alpha Xi Delta works with Autism Speaks and today held their first Football Frenxi (Frenzy). 

Groups of 8-10 people made up a flag football team. There was a mens division and a womens division and the teams played for the grand prize. Teams played on Roos Field, aka the inferno, aka the red turf. 

Each team was asked to pay a registration fee which is then donated to Autism Speaks. For those who didn't play, there was still an opportunity to get involved and donate to their cause. Because I am out of town, I was unable to make the actual event. However, I was still able to donate a few dollars to autism research and awareness. 

I hope that the event went really well and that they raised a lot of money! It sounded like an incredible event. 

Day 306: Wendy's Supports National Adoption Day

November is National Adoption Month. Wendy's is doing something to help. If you visit a Wendy's during November, check in on Facebook and they will donate 50¢ to the Dave Thomas Foundation. They will also donate if you share the following video on Facebook. 

http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=aLP3pAfCHgo&feature=youtu.be&desktop_uri=%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DaLP3pAfCHgo%26feature%3Dyoutu.be

Day 305: Helped Pick Up

This afternoon, I was at Walmart. An employee was walking down an isle with hand fulls of stuff. Slowly, the stuff in her her hands began to fall. I ran to help her pick up the stuff. She was vert grateful.