I've as in GIVE!

Let's Give More...

Last month, my children's primary school held a fête to raise funds for restoring and refurbishing the playground.

It was a wonderful celebration of people of all ages coming together to donate, share, and give their time freely.

We received amazing gifts from generous companies, and the event featured great stalls offering food, face glitter, toys, cakes, jams, and a host of fun games.

The school choir and band graced us with their music and voices.

Organising this event took many hours (well done James and team), and it was all done with joy, laughter, and love.

This experience reminded me that gifts don't need to be material things; often, the greatest gift is our time, shared with others, and it costs us nothing.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to this wonderful event, and a special thanks to Head Teacher Mrs. Hâf Williams, who retires this year after over a decade of giving her magic to so many.

Thank you for your amazing generosity: Fortnum & Mason, Liverpool FC, Halen Môn, ZipWorld, Hickory's Restaurant, Tanners Wines, Liverpool Everyman and Playhouse, Blighty Booch, Principality Building Society, Venue Cymru, Boathouse Climbing Centre Llandudno, Hintons of Conwy Bookshop, Paysanne Restaurant Deganwy, Wild Horse Brewing Company, Dylan's Restaurant, Manorafon Farm Park, Josie Sedgwick-Davies, The Repair Shop, Alpine Travel, Shearer Candles, and the wonderful EL Jones printers for the fabulous raffle tickets and service :)

Stef Jones, Onwards & Upwards...

This month in our latest Just Meee podcast we are joined by Stef Jones, founder of Onwards and Upwards charity, whose mission is to break the cycle of reoffending by creating life-changing jobs for ex-offenders.

Four years ago, while volunteering at HMP Brixton Chaplaincy, Stef noticed a troubling pattern: released prisoners often returned, despite their intentions to stay out of crime. The common thread was their struggle to find employment—either no one would hire them, or they didn’t believe they deserved a chance.

Seeing the untapped talent and potential within the prison, Stef decided to act. He partnered with Rob Love, a seasoned expert in management and operations, to create Onwards & Upwards. Their charity focuses on building trusted brands and businesses that provide employment for ex-offenders.

Their first venture, XO Bikes, launched in March 2022, is just the beginning. They aim to show that hiring ex-offenders not only makes good business sense but also helps reduce reoffending rates and shifts societal attitudes. Stef’s initiative is a powerful example of how giving opportunities can transform lives and communities.

Thank you Stef x

What Can You Make From Give?...

Last month we sadly lost two great givers, Rob Burrow CBE and Dr. Michael Mosley.

These exceptional human beings gave so much and left us with their magic.

In honour of Rob and Michael, and countless others, here’s this month's Meee acronym: GIVE. It's a wonderfully simple word with no boundaries and no end.

G = Gift: Nestled in the middle of 'gift' are two important letters: 'if'. They ask a question. If I could give more, what would I give?

I = Improve: What can I do to improve someone else's life? It doesn't have to be money; it can be as simple as a smile, a hug, or a chat.

V = Volunteer: The joys and wonders of volunteering enriches lives, builds communities, and fosters a sense of purpose and connection.

E = Effect: “The effect you have on others is the most valuable currency there is”. Thank you, Jim Carrey, for one of the best quotes ever!

Thank you, Rob, Michael, and all of you who give so much.xxx

Stuff To Give Up...

This month, we are focusing on the power of giving, both to ourselves and to others. But what about giving stuff up?

In 'Meee In A Minute', chapter 37, titled 'Stuff To Give Up', Sid shares a powerful list of nine things to let go of if we want to be happy.

The list includes: complaining, unhelpful beliefs, blaming others, negative self-talk, dwelling on the past, resistance to change, the need to impress others, the need to be right, and the need for others' approval.

Take a minute™️ each day to review this list, or create your own, and give yourself the time to let go of what no longer serves you.x

Just Before You Go...

Give ‘Federer: Twelve Final Days’ a shot on Prime Video!

This documentary follows Roger Federer's emotional last 12 days as a professional tennis player, offering a heartwarming look at his career and legacy.

You'll see his final matches, hear from legends like Nadal and Djokovic, and get a glimpse into his life off the court.

A must-watch!

Give It A Go...

We recently launched our very own 'My Meee' app. This includes three short exercises to complete at the end of each day; 'What am I grateful for?'; 'What have I achieved today?' and 'What am I looking forward to?'.

This is a fantastic way to take the time to think about your own needs and how you can make time to give more to yourself and others. 

And the great news is, there is a free 7-day trial available by accessing one of the links below.

Give it a go and let us know what you think.x