Starting on the Backyard

To get the space all tidied up for the end of January, we've started cleaning up the back yard a bit.  Nice side effect; I've now got a pretty good pile of firewood.  Now to just keep it dry until then.

Kick Starting the Campaign

I am officially starting my Camping for a Cause campaign!  

I turned 39 this year, and it struck me that I've been what pretty much everyone considers poor for my entire adult life.  I have actually only been required to file a tax return three times, ever.  And, although the reasons for that poverty changed over the course of my life, one fact never did; I have always had a roof over my head. The truth is, I have been so very fortunate to have friends and family that have kept me out of that situation my entire life.

Recently, I was able to get a real "grown up woman" job with Habitat for Humanity.  I now make enough money to take care of all my bills, pay off my debt, and keep a roof over my head.  I am truly blessed to have safety and security.  These factors have so much to do with all that I will be able to accomplish in my life, integral to the quality of my life.

This holiday season, I am dedicating my time and money to a campaign I truly care about.  I am going to help raise enough money to build a complete home for a family in need.  I know of no better way to recognize all the good fortune in my life, celebrate the season of giving, and do something of great importance before the end of the year, than to ensure a deserving family never has to live without adequate shelter ever again.

For those of you who don't know, I've committed to living and sleeping outside for a day for every $500 this campaign raises.  That's what Camping for a Cause is all about.  I will gladly give up the security of a roof over my head to help provide a family with it.

If you care to join me in my cause, please visit and share my fundraising page.  Every single donation, regardless of size, will help to build this house!

Please be sure to share this effort with your friends and family.  Please consider posting to your Facebook wall, Twitter feed, G+ page, Pinterest board, send an email, whatever!

Also, come back to this blog often.  I'm going to write about my experiences leading up to my camping date, and afterwards, I'll post a new blog entry every day, telling you about my experiences with living without shelter and the challenges millions of Americans must face.

Let's celebrate this wonderful time of year through the act of recognition and giving!  Thank you so much everyone!

Sincerely,
Sandra