Starting over

[Brooke Parker]

I started a new routine recently, one which allow me to be more mindful of giving on a daily basis. So I am starting my 29-day challenge, nay, promise, with today.

 

I start each day by doing gentle yoga poses while lying in bed after the first alarm sounds (rather than rolling over until the second, third or fourth as usual). This gets my body moving, waking up, gently. I can even keep my eyes closed and still feel like I am waking. Next I go for my cup of coffee instead of hopping straight into the shower-dress-hair-makeup-coffee-breakfast-leave routine I normally rush straight into. I sit with my coffee and just relax into a slower morning. I think about what I am grateful for, and how to give my best gift for the day.

 

This is brand new, and so far contemplating my daily gift has resulted in nil. But today the opportunity presented itself to me, in the form of an inter-office rally to donate to Japanese Relief funds. I was going to give $10, but opted for $50 (to be matched personally by our CEO) and spread the word to nearly everyone in my email contacts. Within hours a friend responded in kind, with $50 which will also be matched by her employer! Two hours and two hundred dollars!

 

And here I will begin my next 29-day promise. A "challenge" for myself is too easy to drop. I am promising this to the world.

[Michele wwt]

It's amazing how the giving opportunities present themselves when we open our minds and hearts. You gave some fantastic gifts! Thanks for sharing them. Love your morning routine.....will have to give it a try. :)

[Nds]

That is so wonderful. I learnt a little something by reading about your early morning routine :) So thank you!

[Shannon]

Those are such wonderful gifts!  I also, do the hop out of bed in the shower, hair, makeup, breakfast routine and i hate it!  i never get to enjoy the morning, before the rest of the day just rushes by.  I'm so happy that you did!  Happy Giving! :)

[Brooke Parker]

I appreciate the support!!

[Ann]

Fantastic gifts.  Starting your moning in a more calming way is a great gift to yourelf .  The generous gift to the Jampanese Relief fund will benefit many and has already had a ripple effect.  Joy and blessings to you.

[Deb~ Community Manager]

How wonderful! :o) A gift that spread and created many gifts. You are fabulous Brooke. When you start over you do it grandly :o)