Thursday Thirteen #148

THIRTEEN COMMON, INEXPENSIVE ITEMS 

THAT COULD BRIGHTEN A SOLDIER'S LIFE

And not just soldiers. These things would be valued by troops in the Air Force, Marines and Navy.

Operation Shoebox is a volunteer organization that puts together shoeboxes filled with gifts from home for our troops overseas. Here are just some of the things they suggest we donate. These items are so small, so mundane, that they humble me. THIS is what our troops are asking for, in exchange for defending us? If you can, please do what you can to pitch in and help by donating these items:

1) Twizzlers
2) Dental floss
3) Instant coffee
4) Girl Scout Cookies
5) Playing cards
6) Ramen noodles
7) Hand sanitizer
8) Paperback books
9) Batteries (esp. AA and D)
10) Plastic spoons
11) Sugar packets
12) Disposable razors
13)Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner



Many of these items will fit into a padded envelope. That's what I do: collect the items in an envelope and then send them off to Operation Shoebox. I also have a collection box at work for items like these. It's easy!

Contributions can be sent to:
Operation Shoebox
PO Box 1465
Belleview, FL  34421-1465


For more about the Thursday 13,
or to play along yourself, click here.

I *was* happy

My last day off and I pampered myself to a facial. I enjoyed it while it was happening. The cleansers and lotions and potions all had a nice, citrusy scent and felt good. But now my face feels as parched as the Sahara. I know that often, after a facial, redness is to be expected. But I've never felt this dry before.

Ah! The problems I wrestle with!