You know how life sometimes gets a bit overwhelming with commitments, deadlines and a ‘to-do’ list that appears endless? That’s where I’m hanging out at the moment. This too shall pass … chocolate will help ….
It never seems to fail that in the midst of days like this there is always a ray of sunshine. Today that burst of brilliance appeared in the form of a Newsletter from Rikki Neukom, sharing a fabulous update on the undertaking she began last year to celebrate her fortieth birthday.
Let me back up a bit.
Last August author Elena Aitken introduced us to Rikki Neukom in a post on her blog, “Don’t Forget To Breathe”. I hope you will take a minute to go there and read the background to my post.
The bottom line is this. Rikki is an inspiring example of how one person can make a difference in this world in her own unique way. She helps make the dream of an education come true for children at a Primary School in Kenya, where her friend Agnes is a teacher. Rikki’s only request is for a $5 donation from anyone interested in helping out.
For more information, email Rikki at 40booksin365days@gmail.com.
Here’s a p.s. from Rikki that I received yesterday. It made me smile even more.
“This is probably too late, but I wanted to let you know that the amount of notebooks and pens that were purchased through “40 Books” will actually be enough to cover each of the students in the school for the whole school year. That’s over 650 students. Wow, I had no idea. Also, I was told that the day after the kids received their backpacks the mom’s and dad’s gathered at the school because they were so thankful for the backpacks.
Wishing you a great day.
Rikki”
If you have other bursts of sunshine to share about people you know who are making the world a better place in their own special ways, let’s hear about it. You know I love to share those stories!
And now it’s back to final line edits of the printer’s proofs for The Promise of Provence. Time to hook up the caffeine i.v. Still hopeful for an early April ebook launch. I’ll keep you posted!
it’s news like this that gives us all hope about the change we can bring about in our world.
So true! It’s a lovely reminder that we should never stop trying. Close to home or far afield there is something for everyone of us to work toward.
Rikki’s awesome. I sent her a donation and she mailed me the sweetest thank you card. I love knowing that she’s bringing so much joy to so many kids.
I remember your support of Rikki last year too, Tameri. She touched the hearts of so many of us. I can just see you wearing that beautiful smile of yours as you read her newsletter and see those joyful photos!
What an uplifting story. Knowing the parents arrived at the school the day after the supplies were handed out brought tears to my eyes.
Mine too!
That’s fantastic news, Patricia – what a great effort! 🙂
Too true – it’s inspiring and motivating! Imagine the photos we could take there!
Wonderful news – thanks for this post Patricia!
Thank you everyone for your kind comments and thank you Patricia for sharing my story. I have enjoyed looking back to see how everything evolved after I decided to read 40 books. Happy Easter
What a magnificent blog! I’m pushing the follow button right now. Your story about Rikki is uplifting and inspiring. Hurray for people with vision and follow-through. Best wishes.
I guess it’s been ages since I’ve visited your blog, Patricia. My blogging time has been cut way down since I’ve been care taking full-time (over a year now and soon will have a newborn granddaughter to care for in addition to my grandson!) but I love your new photo. You look fabulous. And your banner photo is gorgeous.
Rikki sounds amazing. How awesome that one person can make such a difference. She fits your description of a “burst of sunshine.” I love that!
Woo hoo for you working so hard to get your next novel out there. You go, Patricia!
Hey Lynn – It’s hard to keep up with all of our blogging buds. I knew you had your hands full being such a good mom/grandmom. Thanks for your kind words and you are right about Rikki. She is amazing! Thanks for stopping by!
So very cool! It is good to know that the money goes so far there!
Congrats on your new novel! You’re almost there……pass me that caffeine drip please….
Haha! Come on over and we can share that drip! How is your WiP coming along?
I am reading it one last time and then I will pass it along for input. Push, push push! And you?
Thanks for posting this. I always like to contribute to a good cause.
This is one of those good causes for sure!
keep up the good work
Rikki is wonderful, and so are you! I love your concept of drawing attention to those individuals who make a difference. And best of luck with your novel. Looking forward to reading it! 🙂
Thanks, Edith! I so admire Rikki and the goodwill she spreads so graciously! Thanks for your kind words about my novel and I’m delighted with the response. It was such a pleasure to write!
Just loved Promise of Provence. It’s just like seeing an artist painting those beautiful places – and now Southern France is on my bucket list. It never was, until reading your book.
I must say Rikki is a very special gal – and just raised $800.00 at her book and bake sale for Dako Kokore Primary School, in Kenya for 2013’s challenge.
Thank you so very much for your kind words! You have no idea how satisfying and rewarding comments like yours are to a writer. Is there any chance I might convince you to just say those same words in a review on my amazon sites? I would be most grateful for others to see them.
You just reminded me I need to send Rikki a copy of my book today. The print versions have just become available. Thanks for the reminder and for taking the time to write your comments. You truly made my day!