Oh, Mom.

So, most who know me are aware that my mom and I are bff's. But not in the cheesy way, but more like the "she's still my mom and tells me what to do sometimes but we're friends". I tell her everything. And if I don't talk to her via some form of modern technology during the day she usually thinks I've been kidnapped. But, at the same time she is the one who has driven home the importance of stating my independence.

Phew. Did I paint an ok picture? Also, if you want to see what I will look like in 30 years, just look to my right. That's Miss Lisa, my mom.

Well, I don't know if your moms do this but mine often saves up papers and magazines when she's busy. When things slow down she rummages through them. Then EVERY time she sees something that even only relates to me in a peripheral manner she cuts it out. Starts a pile. Sends me the pile.

This past week she sent me a pile including Ann Landers articles from 1999 (one was submitted by a 24 year old male virgin wondering if there were any virgins left for him. thanks, mom). BUT, one of the things she sent me was really rad AND it's only from November 2008. It says:

"People who volunteer are 42% more likely than people who don't to say they are 'very happy' with their lives --

1. Think local. Browse nearby opportunities at www.volunteermatch.org, where you can select projects according to your zipcode and area interest.

2. Think global. Log onto www.volunteerabroad.com, where projects range from saving leatherback turtles in Costa Rica to teaching English to Burmese refugees in Thailand.

3. Think together. Meet other volunteers at www.change.org, where thousands connect online to support established organizations or start their own grassroots campaign."

Y'all these websites are awesome. They hook you up with organizations where YOU would feel comfortable. Whether you're changing your own community or helping those in neighboring nations, you can do no wrong. Volunteering changes lives. So, what are you waiting for? Log on!

This one you hit on the head mom. Thanks for the articles, keep 'em coming!