It was absolutely wonderful to MC Sunday’s Acclaim Health, 7th annual Chocolate Brunch Extravaganza!!!  The event is put on to raise awareness and money for their vital Senior’s programs. The services include Friendly visiting, where I initially started volunteering 10 years ago, Special Steps, Tele-Touch, Hospice/Bereavement and Alzheimer Services. Standing at the podium and looking out into the audience was a moment to behold. I was really taken by the energy of the room.

The commitment and dedication of everyone involved on this day and all those who came out to support the worthy cause, made it worth while.  It just goes to show we really can make a different in the world, especially when we come together. Taking care of our Senior’s, doing our part to make sure we can support thousands of individuals every year faced with life threatening illness or isolation in our community, is a sure step in the right direction.  The Chocolate Brunch Extravaganza definitely makes a difference in the lives of so many! Why not consider making a donation next year?  Get involved, be part of your community.

On Tuesday, I headed downtown to the One Of A Kind Christmas Show in Toronto, and I’m so glad I did. There was so much to see, lots of tastings (the ‘mini’ Cheese Cake Lady had the best treats) and the unique display of goodies, rows upon rows, a definite feast for the eyes.

For me, being able to meet with Tat, owner of Stanley and Stanley harps was educational and fun. It’s been a long time coming to find a second harp, one I could call my working harp and small enough to take with me, visiting clients interested in therapeutic harp music.

Tat was amazing!!!  He let me play any and all the harps available at the show. However, I clearly had my heart set on either the 22 string Gwendolyn or the Florence 26 string harp, their popular Canadian made (yeah!!!) Therapy harp.

Regrettably, the Florence therapy harp was gone, sold to a customer earlier in the week. All was not lost, I did play the model up from the Florence called Anne, but it really wasn’t what I was looking for.

Instead, I sat on the chair off to the side and played around with the Gwendolyn for some time before deciding to make the purchase.  Got a great deal (harp and case) but more importantly, after coming home and spending time tuning and playing the harp, it just felt right.  I really love the sound of this bright, well balanced (tone/sound) small harp.

It’s true what they say, good things really do come in small packages.

What an exciting and exceptionally beautiful day to be with friends, celebrating 10 years of volunteer work at the Annual Volunteer Awards Luncheon in Oakville.

Lunch was delightful and there was so much chitter chatter between friends, meeting new people and mingling with Acclaim Health staff members including a few of the Board of Directors who came out for the celebrations.

It’s hard to believe I’ve been Volunteering for 10 years.  And as one gentleman politely asked “Did you start when you were a child?” I’ll take that as compliment, wink!

Dee Kearns, Hospice/Bereavement Co-ordinator (Burlington) presented me with the pin I was so pleased to receive, as you can see from the picture.

Have you considered volunteering?  Acclaim Health is the perfect organization for anyone interested in sharing and spending time with the many clients who wait for your friendship. There are numerous programs be get involved with from Hospice to Special Steps, Friendly Visiting and so much more.  What are you waiting for, get involved and give them a call today 905 827-8800.