Party with Heart began as a social movement, really, to get people inspired to help others while they celebrate.  As I was walking my dog this morning, I realized that there are many ways we celebrate and come together as friends or community that do not necessarily fall under the “party” umbrella.  

Do any of you readers belong to a book club?  I do…sort of.  I always want to read books that no one else does so I usually read alone, in my bed or on my porch.  Anyway, when I do attend, there is always a group of gracious, smart people just waiting to talk and share information.   Everyone meets at one spot, whether it be a coffee house, restaurant or a private home.  Ladies and gentlemen alike bring bottles of wine, and  sweet treats. Sound familiar? I’m sure it does. 

One way to make the book club a bit more special, would be to make a donation to the non-profit of your choice in lieu of wine or sweets.  Your group could even vote on the non-profit you will support .  It might be extra sweet to help support reading programs for women in the U.S. or another part of the world that don’t have access to books.  Or, ask around in your group.  I bet there is someone who sits on a Board of a non-profit organization, or who holds a certain organization dear.  I cannot tell you how much joy and interests this will add to your meetings, not to mention the gratitude you will receive from the organizations you choose to help. 

You could certainly begin by reading some books to get you all thinking in a charitable way.   I usually go to my local book store and pace the aisles for an hour.  It’s such fun!  I find the most wonderful books.  If there is no time to walk the aisles, you could start with anything by Tracy Kidder, or The Road of Lost Innocence, by Somaly Mam.  There are so many choices, and each one tells a story that must be read. 

Keep me posted on your book club meetings and let me know how you do!  

Best to you all,

Beth

Karen from Stock’s Tea turned me on to Somaly.org when she said she wanted to donate 20% of her profit to them.  I looked at  the site immediately and was saddened by what I read.  Human Trafficking was not on my radar, I must admit.  Now it seems I can’t get it off my mind.  

When you have a moment, please log onto somaly.org to learn more about this issue and how you can help - even if it is by educating yourself and others.  If we talk about it, I believe we can begin to change it.  

Additionally, for you tea lovers out there, you can purchase Stock’s Tea from www.partywithheart.com and 20% of the money will go to Somaly.org. That’s a good thing.  

All the best to you all,

Beth

Good Morning Friends!

Here’s a story that illustrates one of the ways Party with Heart has been able to reach out to others and offer a hand.   

A dear friend of mine, Elana had a conversation with a friend of hers who works on sustainability projects in the Dominican Republic.   He and I met to talk a bit about a group of artisans there called Arte Miches (www.artemichesinc.org).  They make beautiful wood products and jewelry.  As we spoke about Arte Miches, their story came alive.  James talked about the joyful nature of the artisans and the way they smile and enjoy life as they create each piece.  The story was sweet in many ways and more serious in others.  The fact is, these artisans need exposure.  They need people who will take interest in their work.  I was able to put Arte Miches in touch with a colleague who owns a store in the DR.  I hope that’s a start. 

I have been in touch with a Peace Corps volunteer named Christina who works directly with the artists.  She thought it would be a wonderful idea to blog about Arte Mitches.   If there is a reader who would be interested in buying pieces, spreading the word about Arte Mitches or speaking with Christina about how you could help, please contact me and I will gladly get you in touch with her.  Here are two pictures which illustrate some of the work and spirit of Arte Miches. Enjoy.

My favorite

hand carved birds and smiling faces

Hello Everyone!

I am delighted to be on this short, sweet and consistent blogging campaign!  Oh, the joys of structure!

I love Brazilets.  If you don’t know about them, please pay attention.  They are essentially inexpensive bracelets that one ties three times and finishes by making a wish.  The Brazilian tradition says that once  the brazilet falls off, your wish will come true.  Everyone is wearing them - from teens to adults.  They are inexpensive…$5.00 a piece.  What’s even better, a portion of the profit goes to planting trees in the Brazilian Rainforest!  Yippee!

I love these as a party favor.  They are so much fun and as I said before, kids, teens and adults love them.  So please contact me with any of your Brazilet needs.  I will gladly send you some, answer any questions and suggest some fun ways to give these as your next gift or party favor.  How can one argue with something that’s fun, hip and good for the rainforest?

Have fun, celebrate and join me while we help some others along the way.

Beth

Happy August All,

There is so much to say.  I just read an article that warns writers of “over writing” for emails and blogs.  The purpose is to stress a point, be concise and communication a firm, well constructed idea.  Yes, that’s right.  I keep reminding myself that simplicity is a beautiful thing.  So, in lieu of a wordy blog, I have pledged to keep things simple. 

So, here’s the game plan.  Each day I will write about a special gift,  non-profit organization, or  story.  I hope to become inspired by the work of others and share it all with you.

DAY 1:   WWW. CHABHA.ORG - CHILDREN AFFECTED BY HIV/AID  

I have been a Board member for 2 years and I adore working with this group of smart, warm hearted people.  This grassroots organization helps  support the needs of 2,500 children living in Rwanda and Burundi.  To learn more, please  visit the website (www.chabha.org), our facebook page, or contact me.  I would be delighted to share what I know. 

There is a beautiful collection of  CHABHA notecards available for sale at www.partywithheart.com which show images of the children.  I often give these as hostess gifts along with a little note that thanks them for a lovely evening.  Without a doubt, I receive an email or call the next day asking me about the sweet faces on the cards.  Everyone loves them and it’s a good thing to share.   I keep 5 packs on hand so that I am always prepared with a sweet and thoughtful gift.