The Gift of Time

Deep down, most of us would really like to give and help others out. We all know that many people and organizations are struggling and deserve a boost. However, giving can be very challenging.  Usually the biggest challenge to giving is finding the necessary resources. Another challenge to giving is knowing who really needs the gift? These aren't easy challenges to resolve, but I encourage you to look long and hard for solutions. It will be worth your while because giving makes most people feel so good for so long.

Once you have researched and discovered a person or organization that you would like to help, you may still face the challenge of not having any extra money to give. Don’t give up now -- here is a fabulous idea to consider-- give the gift of time. Many people and organizations can’t afford to pay workers to meet all of their needs. That’s where you can help.

For example a single mom may need a babysitter to go for a job interview, or a car repair or other very productive tasks. In most cases she can’t afford the extra expense of a baby sitter. Giving your time can be a vital piece to her success or maybe even her survival.

How about your school - any school! I know they need money, but you can bet they could use your time also.

Here at Extra Attic Richmond Self Storage we see an example of how time can turn into millions of dollars. One of our long time Extra Attic team members has committed a tremendous amount of time to his college - The College of William and Mary. He was an integral part of a fundraising idea for the football team (which he played for). Then, he gave many hours of his time over the next 20 years to ensure its success.

The name of the idea is HEYFARL - Hundred Each Year For A Rising Letterman, and it has raised over $1.25 million for the William and Mary football team since its inception in 1994. HEYFARL contributors are mostly former W&M football players and the contributions go to deserving W&M walk - on football players who have earned scholarships from their previous year’s performance. WOW! You never know what can happen.

These are just a few examples of giving the gift of time. I’m guessing many more ideas have crossed your mind since you started reading this. So when you are at your wit’s end trying to manage your own resources and there is nothing left to give - think hard about giving the gift of time. It will be worth it. Seeing those beautiful smiles will make your day - maybe even your year!

Do you give the gift of time? Share with us, we'd love to hear about it!

Richmond VA Loves Hanover Tomatoes!

Richmond has a fascination with Hanover tomatoes. We eat tons of them, we have a festival in their name, we make lots of other foods from them and we are always bragging about them being the best anywhere. I know the Extra Attic family eats lots of them- we love them too!

What is so special about Hanover tomatoes? The number one reason is they are delicious. They are plump and juicy with just the right balance of mellow and zesty flavors. Another attribute is their freshness. Since they are local, they aren’t long off the vine when you get them. You can’t beat delicious and fresh!

According to experts, a few reasons for the delicious flavor are the soil, which does not hold a lot of water and Hanover County’s perfect tomato climate. Also, the local farmers have found the proper combination of fertilizers and watering strategies to maximize flavor. Sorry, no secret formula.

We can’t get enough of our Hanover tomatoes! We eat them green, fried, stewed and fresh. We eat them in salads, alone (with salt- yes!), in casseroles, on sandwiches, and with anything. We even have the Hanover Tomato Festival, which over 40,000 people attend, to celebrate their goodness. Whatever we do with Hanover tomatoes, we love them!

It is not really known how or when they became so popular or how Hanover County alone gets all the glory. On the other hand, not everyone agrees that Hanover tomatoes are the best. Many localities around the country brag about their local tomatoes. I know some of my friends claim Jersey tomatoes are the best. We know better though!

Regardless of their history or what anyone else says about them- Hanover tomatoes are delicious and worth celebrating. You can find them almost anywhere that sells produce. I prefer finding a local roadside stand to buy mine. Enough talking- my mouth is watering. Let’s go get some Hanover tomatoes now, while we can!

Is Your Mind All Over the Place? Consider the YMCA of Greater Richmond VA!

Most of us often ponder the challenges of getting our body in shape. That is a legitimate concern.  But, how many of us think about the state of our mind? We live hectic lives, with too many responsibilities. Run, run, run!  All that does is mess with our minds, which in turn has negative effects on our family, our health and our jobs.  What can we do to help our minds become healthy?

As you know, The YMCA is a place to work out and get the body in shape. Here is something I bet most of you didn’t know. The YMCA has the development of a healthy mind as part of its mission statement. They are experts in redirecting your mind toward a more peaceful and constructive place. 

The YMCA offers several programs designed for just that- your mind! As you read some of the programs, let your mind imagine how refreshing and freeing it would be to participate. Here are a few of the programs: have some fun with the many family- centered activities, engross yourself in learning a new hobby or skill, connect with friends in the lifelong learning programs, enjoy a parent’s night out, get smarter at the educational seminars and also empower yourself to make those changes you have always wanted to with the Y Restore Ministries. Lots to enjoy at the Y- your mind will thank you!

A healthy mind is very important, but remember, that is not an excuse to stop pondering the condition of your body. The YMCA is still a fabulous place for getting the body in shape too!    

The Extra Attic Richmond VA Self Storage Family is a committed donor to the YMCA of Greater Richmond VA and believes strongly in their mission and vision. We have participated in, and witnessed many successes from their programs. The YMCA is an integral part of many of our lives and they would love for you to become a member.