Hope For The Homeless: Day 1 - Trial, Error, & Preparation

Today didn't exactly go as I'd planned it in my head. However, I did get the preparation completed, as well as the process planned out for when I interview participants for this project. Tomorrow I will try again, this time in the morning. Tonight I tried after the sun had gone down.... and I admit, it was extra creepy.

I did ask one woman if she was interested in being interviewed. I briefly explained the project, and she responded through the few teeth she had, "No, you see, I work for a corporation."

This threw me for a loop as I stared to her right at the pile of garbage bags that held her belongings, and the plastic cup she'd been shaking with change inside it. Her clothes were clearly dirty, as well as her body, and I don't think she works for a corporation at all.

I called my mom, because that's what I do when I don't know what else to do, and she said to try again in the morning when at least it is light out and less scary. She also pointed out that while the woman most likely does not work for a corporation, she very well could believe she does in her head. This reminds me that many of the homeless people we see are far off into their own imaginations, living based on daydreams that they convince themselves to be their realities. Many are sick, mentally and psychologically, and I will have to seek those who are capable of communicating for this to be a success.

Tomorrow is a new day. Tonight I will work on the signs, and I already have my first collaged money jar ready for the first featured participant. I understand it might not be as easy as I had imagined. It will take a lot of guts for people to admit to being homeless... as I'm sure it's not something they are proud of by any means.

Here's to hoping that tomorrow is a much better attempt. But for what it is worth, today has been great in the way that preparation is now complete, and I am equipped with all of the supplies I will need.

For The Love Of Words,

X0.Brittney

Hope For The Homeless

Tonight I was walking home from having dinner at 800 Degrees with my new friend Morgan, a fellow writer, when I passed a homeless woman and asked if she would like my leftover pizza.

There was half of the truffle cheese goodness—three good-sized pieces— remaining, and while I was totally looking forward to cold pizza for lunch tomorrow [that’s the best!], I could not walk by this woman without offering it to her.

She needed it more than I would. Actually, in all honesty, I am fortunate to not NEED it at all. We live in a society where we're taught to think we need so much more than we actually do.

With the holidays around the corner, it feels right to open our hearts to those who are truly in need. It is an epidemic right in front of our eyes, and yet we continue to ignore it because society simply tells us that it's not our problem.

Being surrounded by self-absorbed, soulless conformity can be ultimately draining. The best way to combat a disheartened mentality is to provide an example of how humanity could be— or better yet, how it should be.

We are taught in grade school that we must have three things in order to survive:

Food. Water. Shelter.

The homeless are constantly scrambling for the smallest hint of all of the above.

What we are not taught, however, is the other list of three that we need in order to truly live:

Faith. Hope. Love.

I will be the first to admit that I am terrified of homeless people. I have even gone as far as realizing a correlation between them and that show everyone loves called The Walking Dead.

To be blunt, it is heartbreaking, but we do not see the homeless as human beings. We probably view them as closer to zombies than anything— lifeless beings roaming the streets, begging for next to nothing just to…. Just to breathe.

But you know what? With any ounce of faith, hope, and love, no one would let their family or friends get to that level. We are lacking compassion, and for that, we are all responsible.

We are lacking the ability to care for one another as human beings, with beating hearts. Let’s bring it back; let’s let love take over, heal the world.

We have an overflow of potential. We just need to let go of our selfish tendencies that society has led us to believe we must own, and put the possibility to use already. More than hope.

Starting next week: Each Monday, I will introduce someone new on Caboom-Sass.com and write his/her story as a blog post. It will include an option to donate at the end— to give directly to the person that the post is about.

Each person will be given a sign to display that reads: “Have a Smart Phone? Read my story at Caboom-Sass.com.” with a word-collaged money jar and a few of my business cards, should anyone ask them who or how or why.

Before each post is published, the person will receive coffee/food while chatting with me, as a thank you for their willingness to participate.

For The Love Of Words,

X0.Brittney 

10/11/11... back when it began

On 10/11/11, I took a giant step forward into the world of... vulnerability, I suppose you could say, and created Caboom-Sass.com after years of wanting to, but hesitating. I was filled with fear of what people would think of this idea... and moreover, what people would think of me. I cared so much about that, that it produced this fear of putting my idea out there, but after my summer of living in New York City, I decided that it didn't matter. The people who chose to dislike this idea-- they aren't the ones I'm creating this for anyway. It's for the believers, the go-getters, the "I-want-to-succeed-but-I-need-that-nudge"-ers. It's for the people who have a lack of support and encouragement; to provide them with a pocketful of it. With this project, I feel confident in saying that's exactly what's been manifested here. That's exactly what I've been doing, and I couldn't be more ecstatic to realize how much the power of words has helped others through these small, heartfelt collages.

It all started with this breakthrough blog post, the very first one. Now looking back, we've provided personalized, motivational "Pocketful of Positivity" collages to recipients in cities all over the world, including:
New York, Chicago, Queens, Sarnia, San Francisco, Gibraltar, Rockwood, East Lansing, Detroit, Trenton, Miami, Carleton, Mount Pleasant, Lansing, Nashville, Newport, Ann Arbor, Las Vegas, Dowagiac, Grand Rapids, Rowlett, Glen Burnie, Poyen, Los Angeles, Monroe, Minneapolis, Twentynine Palms, St. Clair Shores, Falmouth, and Malibu.

This doesn't include the random "Scatter Sesh" collages, which are left anonymously in areas like stores and rest-stop bathrooms during various trips I've taken in the past year.

It's all for the love of words and compassion, communication, & connection; that's what it truly comes down to. With that, I'd like to extend a wholehearted, Happy FIRST BIRTHDAY to my project/service, Caboom-Sass.com. Here's to many more and to expanding so much further from here on out! This is only the beginning, with so many ideas to craft in the coming years.

For The Love Of Words*

X0.Brittney

Our first birthday is approaching!!

Nine days remain until Caboom-Sass.com turns ONE! Today we've activated our own official email account: CaboomSassDotCom@gmail.com. Just thought you may like to know :)

For The Love Of Words*

X0X0.

Random Thoughts n' Lotsa Coffee :)

We made a few collages for our friends over at RandomThoughtsandLotsaCoffee.com. Check them out below. This particular order got me thinking-- would anyone be interested in Caboom-Sass.com coasters for your coffee/tea mugs? I think it might have to happen in the near future. :)

For the Love of Words,

X0.Brittney & Caboom-Sass.com

THE FOURTH OF JULY IS NEXT WEEK!

My absolute favorite holiday is less than a week away. Had to SASS it out! Enjoy :)


*ALL COLLAGES ARE AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST. SEE ONE YOU LIKE; SAY THE WORD, & IT'S YOURS!

For The Love Of Words,

X0.Brittney & Caboom-Sass.com

Newness Added to the Sass Wall

25 Freebies Await Homes! See one you like; say the word, and it's yours!

For The Love Of Words,

Brittney, Caboom-Sass.com

An Appreciation Post

Tonight I felt an immense urge to write a blog entry to give thanks to the fabulous individuals who have made Caboom-Sass.com possible, encouraged its birth and growth, and donated to the budding service that it's slowly, but surely, becoming.

I'll start with the most recent person to thank, and then work my way back to the start of it all. With that being said...

Ashley R. is an angel who switched over her personal, prepaid magazine subscriptions to the address of Caboom-Sass.com-- and quite the amazing bundle of subscriptions, I might add! By that, I mean the incredible Harper's Bazaar, Elle Magazine, and *drum roll, please* NYLON!!! I cannot begin to express my gratitude to her! Not only is she a brand new mom to an amazing little bundle of joy, but she also works so hard, full-time, and clearly is equipped with an extraordinary heart! Her baby boy and his father (both named Gary) are blessed to have her as their main lady; that's for darn sure. Thank you so much, Ashley, for your support! Best of blessings, love, and joy to you and your sweet family!

Carrie R. is also an incredibly giving friend who donated a gigantic bag full of magazines to Caboom-Sass.com, as well. How thoughtful and generous to do such a thing! Carrie, I know, is one like me who enjoys saving magazines upon magazines, so I know this wasn't the easiest of moves to make [from one borderline magazine-hoarder to the next], but I am ever-so-thankful that she did! This means the world, as I have already cut into several of the 'zines that she donated to complete several of the orders sent out recently. Thank you so much, Carrie! Your donation is appreciated boundlessly!

Jana G. has been, without a doubt, my second-mom through supporting Caboom-Sass.com! She shares updates with her Facebook friends religiously. Not only that, but she has also ordered several collages after receiving her free P.O.P. including four as Christmas gifts for her girls and their friends. Along with that, Jana also provides me with surprise-messages of motivation every so often, kick-starting my every effort to make this service an absolute success. Your support has been a driving force in the movement and growth of Caboom-Sass.com, Jana, a priceless gift for which I am eternally grateful. Thank you, sincerely!

My parents have been exceptionally supportive throughout the endeavor to make this vision come to life, as well. Every single trip that I take to the craft store is accompanied by them, as we all search the aisles for new shapes and ways to expand the collages created to please each unique recipient. They also provide the stamps for every packaged order mailed out, which is very generous, as I have learned that postage adds up to be quite expensive! Without their support and love, it would be much more difficult, if not nearly impossible, to run Caboom-Sass.com. I love you both so much. Thank you for all of your continual assistance and endless love!

Meena R. and Angie A. are two of my absolute best, most treasured friends, who encouraged the creation of Caboom-Sass.com. I hesitated, as stated in the original, introductory blog post, but proceeded with the help of their support. Together, they convinced me that this idea was one with which I should go forth. They provided the necessary nudge; the confidence boost, to bring this dream to fruition. For that, I am forever grateful. I love you both as if you're my sisters, and I could not be more thankful for your help and encouragement. Thank you so much for all that you do! I can only hope that others are blessed with such phenomenal friends as I am with the both of you. X0!

To each one of you, I thank you, as I am endlessly grateful for your help and involvement with Caboom-Sass.com. Thank you for your support; it means the world.

For The Love Of Words,

X0.Brittney :)

Mother's Day Forever Flowers!

Instead of the traditional bouquet of flowers that will end up in the garbage in about a week or so, try a new route of affection this Mother’s Day, a more permanent approach. We've created a way to express your appreciation in a floral sense, just sans the finiteness: Forever Flower collages!

These flowers can be any type and color combination you choose, with petals full of words of compassion in return for your mother's endless love, sacrifice, and hard work dedicated to her beloved kin. Let's show Mom that her selflessness does not go unnoticed! 

A mother’s love is infinite; our gratitude should be, too! Flowers are beautiful; make yours last forever this Mother’s Day with the help of Caboom-Sass.com. Order today! J

[Forever Flower collages are available in the form of: refrigerator magnets, bookmarks, air fresheners, car rearview mirror decorations, carry-along purse pieces, desk or door décor, trinket boxes, greeting cards, and more!]

Less than two weeks until Mother's Day! Order ASAP! [These are 100% free]

For The Love Of Words,

X0.Brittney

NEWEST Addition to Caboom-Sass:

GREETING CARDS!

Now you can order your STILL FREE, personalized GREETING CARD collages. Spread the SASS-love galore for birthdays, milestones, & more!

What are you waiting for? Order yours today! :)

   For The Love Of Words,

X0.Brittney 

APRIL AMBITION!

With today kicking off the very first full month of SPRING 2012, Caboom-Sass.com is sharing a bit of ambitious energy in the form of brand new collages DAILY all month! Eight new freebies have been added to the "Free SASS Galore." album on Facebook today-- check it everyday for more. :)

Each new collage is also pre-themed! So today's first eight are the following: Life, Love, & Learning; Creative Fearlessness; Love Transforms; Gypsy Soul; Namaste; On Working To Succeed; Be The Change; and Seeking Love.

Enjoy! Any and all new theme preferences or suggestions are more than welcome!

And remember-- see one you like; say the word, and it's yours. Simple as that. :)

For the love of words,

Brittney

THAT GIRL ROCKS!

As you may know if you know me [well], I am the Junior Editor for a community that I love with all my heart and soul, I Am That Girl. The newest venture of IATG is a brand spankin' new campaign titled, "That Girl Rocks." Along with doing my part to spread the word about it, I've created a That Girl Rocks P.O.P. Check it out below, and if you'd like it, let me know!

Also, be sure to check out I Am That Girl if you haven't done so already. You're in for quite the treat of inspiration and self-worth in the form of women empowerment; enjoy! :)

XO.Brittney & Caboom-Sass.com :)

So, Valentine's Day is approaching...

It is in < 3 weeks DAYS…
open your heart, for you this time.

Quite possibly the most historically dreaded holiday is approaching: Valentine’s Day. It may be favored by those who are in lovey-dovey relationships, but those who find themselves single on the day, and worse, consequently lonely, aren’t fans of what is said to be the Hallmark-driven holiday.

Here at Caboom-Sass, we want you to try to see it differently this year. Instead of wallowing in the sadness of your current relationship status, try this: Love yourself.

To be completely honest, I wish I had discovered the following quote in the spring of 2007: “Love yourself first and everything falls into line,” by the beautiful Lucille Ball. If I had read this and taken it seriously, it may have prevented a whole lot of heartache to come. That was when I fell hard into love for the first (ahem, only) time, or so I thought.

Here I am, five years later and happily single, and I am certain that the “love” I had experienced was an illusion or something.  I do not think it is possible to be in love until you truly love yourself whole-heartedly, and I know at that time in my life, in the state of mind that I was in, and amidst the battles that I was in with myself, this whole “self-love” idea was not present at all. I think that what I considered to be head-over-heels love, was really head-over-heels infatuation with the escape that came with what I thought was “love,” because looking back, in a much clearer state of mind, I can see that that is all it really was. It is sad to realize, but it is helpful, too. Such realizations serve as great aids in closure, which I think most people seek at the end of a relationship in one way or another.

So, back to Valentine’s Day, this year let’s focus on something totally bizarre: instead of drowning sorrows in buckets of ice cream or mountains of chocolate in the place of love, do something different: LOVE YOURSELF. I’m serious! Listen to that brilliant Lucille Ball, and take the advice that she so certainly gives: do something for you, that will make you feel especially good. It doesn’t matter if it’s something extravagant or simple, just do something that you know will make you smile. Try to make a pact with yourself that you will focus on your own happiness more and more with every new day, and see what wonderful things will come your way.

You’re probably thinking, “Okay Brittney, this sounds great and all, but how am I supposed to get myself out of the funk that comes with being alone on a day that’s surrounded by loving someone else?”

That’s where Caboom-Sass comes in. We have these new Valentine’s Day-inspired collages, and a few of which are already made. If you see one that you like, say the word and it will be in the mail with your name on it tomorrow. If you don’t see an already-made one that speaks to you, but you still like the idea of Carry-Along Bliss Of Optimistic Motivation; Snag-A-Star Stamina, simply send “I’m interested!” to brittneyschering@gmail.com, and we’ll get started on your personal collage [free of cost].

Fill your own heart with love. Take the time, just this once. Make Valentine’s Day 2012 a happy one, for yourself. ☺

X0.Brittney