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Thursday
Aug182011

couscous with fresh herbs and tomatoes

I’m always amazed at the generosity of people. This intermittent discovery always seems to resurrect itself at a time when my faith in mankind is bleak and rather cynical and I’m thankful that I’m able to witness firsthand that human beings are indeed, good by nature. 

When my friend Erin reached out to me and some other girlfriends about getting involved in a wonderful and worthwhile fundraising project, it was too good to pass up. Spending time with good friends, collaborating and working towards a common goal for an important cause was a fabulous way to spend a Saturday morning. And the best part was- this was a mother/daughter activity which meant it was the perfect occasion to share an amazing experience with our children.

I am so thankful to my parents for teaching us that the world is much bigger than our living room. The reality is, people suffer every day from preventable causes and women in developing countries are particularly vulnerable to communicable diseases, violence and malnutrition. 

The Because I am a Girl campaign by Plan Canada is an incredible organization that promotes health and education for girls in developing nations. Their pink lemonAID fundraiser was the perfect way to introduce our young daughters to the concept of social responsibility by getting them personally involved. They poured lemonade, gave out pink cupcakes and thanked our generous patrons for their donations. They beamed with every contribution, just as happy to accept jingling coins as they were folding bills. “Every little bit helps!” I heard one of them say. How true.

After the fundraiser-which raised almost twice the money than originally anticipated, we gathered together for a BBQ. Unfortunately, I don’t have many pictures as it was a day packed with sunshine and fun but I managed a few photos that I think capture the essence of the day. Small actions really do drive big change.


my contribution to the BBQ potluck

tomato, basil + fresh mozzarella with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, sea salt + cracked pepper- made by Kara

Reader Comments (3)

This looks easy enough that even I can do. One question: Are the 'mixed herbs' dried or fresh? xo

Aug 18, 2011 | Unregistered CommenterThula

love that you blogged about our day, nic. and of course, big props to you for wonderful memories captured in print...xo ep

Aug 18, 2011 | Unregistered CommenterEP

Thula, use fresh herbs if you have them but if not...them about a teaspoon for each different variety you choose.
Erin...I agree. It was so wonderful. Had a blast!

Aug 18, 2011 | Registered Commenternicholetta

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