Sheryl Crow croons about the first cut being the deepest, but I am here to tell you (in script rather than song, as my croons are bad enough to scare crows) that the first step is the heaviest.
This idea that follows, and many, many variations of it have been bumbling about my head for years. Yes, years. Probably five years to be exact, and as I am only twenty-five years old that is a remarkably high percentage of my days thus far on this Earth.
Regardless, I’m here now- putting my foot down, and extremely hopeful and excited about the steps to follow.
Without further adieu… ladies and gentlemen, the gist:
Long ago, a seed of hope was planted in my heart for the beautiful people of Uganda and I am extremely humbled to have the opportunity to visit and work alongside their efforts this summer (during the month of July). I am so very excited to offer what resources I have and, in the same turn, eagerly anticipate all that I have to learn!
I am going by myself, and will be giving my time and donations to the Uganda Rural Fund. I encourage you all to check out their website and get jazzed for all the truly amazing and inspirational progress occurring in the villages outside of Kampala. www.ugandaruralfund.org Also, ch-ch-ch-check it out- I am on the volunteer page! Whoop whoop!
So, as of today, I have found a plane ticket and I am Africa-bound and bursting with joy (and, admittedly, quite a few nerves).
As it turns out, flying around the world costs a very pretty penny. Worth it? Yes. Leap of faith? Definitely.
Incidentally, this is where community (that’s you, sweet reader) enter the picture! Community… and cookies!
If you know me, you know that I bake. Almost compulsively. I seize any opportunity to whip up a batch of something sweet because, honestly, it is one of the few talents I feel gifted with and I really enjoy serving other people. Also, who hates dessert?! Even those without a sweet tooth (I have extra, if anyone needs one!) tend to enjoy an occasional treat. So, there you have it. Confections rank right up there with math on the list of universal languages. And I happen to be fluent in the former.
I have a vision of using this hobby in a larger, more intentional way.
(See, this really is all tying together…)
I am currently constructing a menu (to be posted very soon) and will be selling baked delights for very reasonable prices. Additional donations are welcome. ALL proceeds will go directly toward the URF, and my involvement with them. Should I raise enough to assist in the cost of my journey this summer, all contributions will then go to support what the URF is doing for the people of Uganda.
My hope is to continue to devote my time and energy towards this project beyond this summer. I envision connecting the astounding community in Austin, Texas to the beautiful communities of Africa, using just an apron, some ingredients, and my trusty ole’ KitchenAid Mixer.
So, there you have it. The blueprint, the rough draft, and (trumpets sound) the proverbial ribbon cutting of Benevolent Confections.
Until I post again, please be keeping this idea in mind. If you pray, please pray for adventures and opportunities to come, both here and abroad.
I am incredibly grateful for you all- for your inspiration, encouragement, and support.
Thank you,
Claire Pace Meade
