If you haven't read the book I am Malala, you need to. Read the Dressmaker of Khair Khana while you're at it.
When Madi told me how excited she was to start Kindergarten we talked about how girls in other countries aren't allowed to go to school.
She was more angry than I expected. I told her we could do something to help.
A few weeks ago we had a lemonade stand to raise money for the Malala Fund. I was so grateful when neighbors, friends and family showed up to support us.
We may not have raised a ton of money, but we learned a lot.
The girls learned about entrepreneurship, counting money, and communication skills.
They learned that they can take a stand. They can do something to help right the wrongs they see in the world.
Even a small effort is better than nothing.
I learned (or remembered) the importance of community.
Social media is a great tool, but nothing can replace in person connections.
I was grateful for a chance to visit with friends, neighbors and family.
I heard wonderful news and terrible news, gave lots of hugs, and felt so grateful for the people in my life.
Through the good and the bad, we all need each other.
Thank you so much to everyone who came to support us! We'll be doing it again next week, so send me a message if you want the address.
Now head on over to my friend Melissa's blog (St. Charles, MO Documentary Family Photographer) to check out her story this month.