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This past year has proven to be a rough ride and wide eye opener for almost all of us. Finances are tighter than ever and many of us are feeling badly that we can't buy as many holiday gifts as we used to. We've grown up in an era that strongly suggests to us that one of the best ways to express our love and appreciation is to buy a gift that the recipient will enjoy most. The more expensive, the more you care. One of the good things coming out of this economic crises is a return to good old fashioned humanity. Many of us have forgotten the power and beauty of expressing heart felt gratitude by a thoughtful and meaningful act versus the expensive gift. Ask yourself what really means the most to you? Odds are it's special memories of the people who gave of themselves to you. Now is your chance to do the same for someone who may have touched your life in a special way this year. I've created an event I fondly call "Thankful Celebrations" as a tribute to the memories of kindness that have been given to me by individuals that were there for me and touched my life. It is a non-profit event that I started last year to provide the public with an opportunity to say "Thank You" in a very special and memorable way. It consists of a Victorian Style tea luncheon and includes a "Certificate Ceremony". At the ceremony you can express directly to the person why you are 'grateful' or, if your too shy, I will do it for you. It's truly a gift from the heart and one where the memory of your appreciation expressed can last a lifetime. It's also a way to encourage and teach the act of kindness and giving to future generations. In other words-"pay it forward." Please join me in what I hope to become a holiday tradition and give gratitude. The tea will be held January 3rd at Tranquility Tea in Thousand Oaks at noon. This date was picked purposely to accommodate those going out of town for the holidays, yet would like to give this gift. An invitation to the tea will be provided to you to give as a gift for the holidays so it's something for your guest to look forward to in the new year. Seating is limited, so please call me at (805) 375-7246 to make a reservation by Dec. 23rd. The cost is $30 per person and proceeds will go to providing recognition to volunteer organizations here in Ventura county. Brenda Cochranteaandgratitude@verizon.net

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YourNews contains stories posted by members of the public.

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