One of my colleagues has had a tragedy strike her family. She is one of the teacher aides at one of the schools where I work. She lost her home Saturday night to an electrical fire that began behind the stove. She does have insurance but everything was lost. Her grandchildren were staying with her that night and, thankfully, there were no injuries. Donations are coming in, but as I said, everything was lost. She is married to a hardworking fellow and they have an adult son with special needs. She is essentially beginning again, in her 60s. She is that particular type of person that always looks her best: coordination of costume jewelry, jewel-toned clothes that are perfectly kept, shoes polished. She is dedicated to her students in a firm yet loving way. I told her today that I would take her, anytime she's ready, to our church's thrift store and whatever she needs is hers for no cost. When I came home, I had a notion that, in addition to the obvious help she needs, she also needed help returning to herself: she needs sparkle and baubles and bright colors.

I usually gear up this time of year to raise money for March of Dimes, but this year I want to focus on sparkle for Ramona. If you are so inclined to help a complete stranger, here's how:

Send me a pm if you are interested in taking part. I'll share the school's address with you so that an anonymous item(s) may be sent. A sparkly necklace, earrings, bracelets, a scarf. I know that these are the things that she won't feel are a priority to replace, but they are all a part of what makes her her. 

Thanks for considering taking part. Keep Ramona and her family in your thoughts.

Justine