Giving Back

Today I had the opportunity to go to Woodson Elementary School in Atlanta.  Woodson is a Title One School in the Atlanta area.  Most of the kids that go there are being raised by single parents.  A lot of the kids, almost 40% of them have relatives incarcerated for violent crimes. 

A group of us from Chick-fil-A went to the school today to read to the kids, plant a garden, paint, and love on all the teachers and students there.  Here is one of my favorite shots:

Today I am reminded how truly blessed I am.  I grew up in a house with a mom and a dad, and had more than I ever needed.  I was loved, disciplined, educated, well traveled, and the list goes on.  So many don't have that. 

However, that lack of opportunity or the situation that they are in has absolutely no impact on how big their smiles are an the joy that is inside them.

It was a remarkable day.  We brought in the Chick-fil-A cows and had a blast with the kids.  I know our mission was to impact Woodson Elementary, but I think everyone walked away touched by an incredible afternoon.

Below are some of my favorite shots:

In summary, the day was about giving back but also about being aware of the needs.  There are people in our own backyard that are in need, and "to whom much is given, much is required."

I am challenged to be aware of those in need around me.  I will choose to make a difference. 

Day 21

We completed day 21 of the fast at 6pm on Sunday.  You should have seen us on Sunday afternoon.  We hit about 4:00 and the time seemed to stand still.  We decided to watch a movie so that the time could pass.  At 6:00, we dashed out the door, both of us craving red meat.  We went to Ted's and enjoyed burgers.  As if that wasn't enough, we went to Starbucks - ate two desserts each.

And by then, I think we were stuffed and felt sick!

It was great to finish something together - something so challenging but, rewarding.

Glad that is all behind us.  And yes I have had coffee the past two days.

Glad to be back on the regular eating wagon.

The Final Stretch

We are in the final week of the Daniel Fast.  It has been rewarding to do this fast together, but it has not been without its challenges.  I have learned to make baked potato chips within the guidelines of the fast.  That was a good dinner.  Lane and I went to Thai Spice for a date night and ate a tofu dish.  It was fun to try new things and do this challenge together.  I don't think that God is through speaking to us, however.  I am looking forward to the next few remaining days of the fast to see what God has in store.