Tag Archives: time

Rounding Up Summer Checklist

05 Thursday Sep 2019

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person holding ice cream with cone

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If your Facebook feed looks anything like ours, you’ve likely seen lots of back to school pictures this week. You know the ones, photos of smiling children dressed in their new clothes holding up their handmade signs. All of these pictures have us asking, “Where did the summer go?”

It’s important to remember that, although the kids are back in school, the season isn’t over just yet. Fall does not officially start for 2 ½ more weeks, so there’s still time to get out and enjoy all that Wisconsin has to offer. To get you started, we’ve put together a few ideas to help round out your summer:

  • Pitch a tent and sleep outside – even if it’s just in the backyard
  • Build a campfire and roast a marshmallow or two
  • Visit a local or state park
  • Count the stars
  • Get out the rod and reel and spend the afternoon fishing
  • Host an end of summer cookout
  • Pick a bouquet of wildflowers and bring the outdoors in
  • Eat an ice cream cone
  • Buy a ticket to the ballpark
  • Pack a picnic lunch and spend quality time with a loved one
  • Enjoy an outdoor concert
  • Remember Lions Pride

The end of summer may always be a bittersweet moment, but do you remember the old saying? All good things must come to an end. Just think, if we experienced summer all year long, would we really give it the attention it deserves? More than likely, no; only because, it would become the everyday normal. That’s why summer only comes once a year, so we make the most of the season. And, of course, it will be back again!

What items would you still like to complete on your personal checklist before the summer rounds out? Let us know in the comments below.

In approximately 408 hours, we will be approaching the Autumnal Equinox, but that means there’s still plenty of time to have the best summer ever. Go out and make the most of the remainder of the season!

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Do Something Grand on Grandparents Day

06 Thursday Sep 2018

Posted by in Holidays, News, Special Events

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man and child walking near bushes during daytime

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Think back on your fond childhood memories; who was there? More than likely, you picture your mom, dad, siblings, cousins, and of course, grandparents. Sunday, September 9, is Grandparents Day and we think the holiday deserves a grand celebration.

Believe it or not, this observation was not created to simply sell cards and flowers. The holiday creator, Marian Lucille McQuade wanted Grandparents Day to be centered around a family, a day to connect the generations.

According to McQuade, National Grandparents Day has three general purposes:

  1. To honor grandparents
  2. To give grandparents an opportunity to show love to their children’s children
  3. To help children become aware of the strength, information and guidance that elders can offer

Regardless of your family role, we believe Grandparents Day is worth celebrating. We know what you’re thinking, another day to prepare for? Not exactly. You can do plenty of grand activities without a lot of effort. Read through a few fun ways to commemorate the occasion:

  • Spend the day with family

Of course, this may be the most obvious way to celebrate Grandparents Day, seeing as this was the reason behind the holiday. Consider putting together a small family reunion to gather the generations. Simply call or email family members and have everyone bring a dish to pass, so no one person has to spend the weekend in the kitchen.

  • Start building a family tree

What better way to celebrate family then by piecing together the puzzle of your family. Share special memories of those who have passed and talk about how family members’ lives have changed over the generations. Visit PBS to start building yours today.

  • Volunteer together

The families who volunteer together, stay together. As Lions, we believe that giving back is a responsibility for those of all ages. Show your family members the value of volunteering by working on a project together. Consider collecting garbage at the park, spending some time at the community kitchen or walking dogs at your local animal shelter. If your club is working on a large service project, think about inviting family members to join in.

  • Celebrate those who have left too soon

Unfortunately, not all of us are lucky enough to have living grandparents, but you can honor their memory by perusing through old pictures and photo albums. If you are active on Facebook, think about updating your profile picture to one with a grandparent and sharing your favorite memory with friends. We can ensure you will enjoy your walk down Memory Lane.

National Grandparents Day is the perfect holiday to honor legacy and gratitude to a grand generation. How will you celebrate?

Happy Grandparents Day from Lions Pride!

Make the Most of Your Daylight Savings

02 Thursday Nov 2017

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Doesn’t it seem like only yesterday that we were setting our clocks an hour ahead, and Alarm Clockspringing forward? While it may be hard to believe, this Saturday, November 4, we’ll be setting them back for the end of Daylight Savings.

We all know that life moves quickly. Although the days may sometimes go slowly, the years seem to move at hyperspeed. As a result, it’s always a challenge to get everything done that makes our ongoing To Do Lists. But since we are getting 60 minutes back in our day, we think Daylight Savings is the time to celebrate! Here are a few ideas to help you start planning:

  1. Create a new ritual

It’s always a great time to create a new ritual or tradition. Treat yourself to a night in with your favorite movie, create an extravagant meal or host a family game night. Why not spend the evening doing something you enjoy or time with those you love.

  1. Tackle an item on your To Do List

We always have expectations that we set for ourselves, but unfortunately, these expectations are not always realistic or may fall behind other priorities. If you’ve had a certain task that you’ve been waiting to cross off your list, consider spending your extra hour to complete the job (or at least make some headway.) Although it may not be as glamorous as planning a fun activity, we can almost guarantee you’ll take some pressure off yourself.

  1. Catch up with a friend

Rick Warren has said, “Time is your most precious gift because you only have a set amount of it. You can make more money, but you can’t make more time. When you give someone your time, you are giving them a portion of your life that you’ll never get back. Your time is your life. That is why the greatest gift you can give someone is your time.”

We all know that it can be challenging to keep up with friends, especially if they don’t live nearby. Fortunately though, thanks to technology, you don’t have to be close to stay close. Consider spending part of your Saturday night by catching up with a loved one either by phone or email. In our opinion, there’s no better way to spend time than with someone you love.

  1. Sleep

Of course, this item needed to be added to the list! If all else fails, add an extra hour of sleep to your Saturday night. Who couldn’t use 60 more minutes of ZZZs?

Life moves quickly so it’s important to we take advantage of every opportunity to use it wisely. How do you plan to spend your extra hour?

Happy Daylight Savings from Lions Pride!

End of the Summer Bucket List

24 Thursday Aug 2017

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The end of the summer is quickly winding down. We’re not sure where June, July Bonfireand August went, but we don’t have much time to left to take advantage of the beautiful Wisconsin weather. But you can complete the unofficial summer season on a high note by accomplishing the following bucket list:

  • Take a hike at a state park
  • Roast a marshmallow and make a s’more
  • Throw out a line at your favorite river or lake
  • Catch a ballgame
  • Watch a sunrise or sunset (your preference!)
  • Host a summer cookout with family and friends
  • Visit a state fair and indulge in a deep-fried goody
  • Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch in the lush, green grass
  • Remember Lions Pride

All good things must come to an end, right? If we had summer all year round, we definitely wouldn’t appreciate the beautiful weather like we do now. Just keep in mind; it will be back again this time next year.

What items have you already checked off your bucket list, and what else would you still like to complete? The clock is ticking, but there is still time to have the best summer ever! From all of us at Lions Pride, we’d like to wish you a happy end of the summer!

3 Ways to Express Your Gratitude This Mother’s Day

11 Thursday May 2017

Posted by in Holidays, Lions Camp, Special Events, Uncategorized

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We hope that we’re not the first ones to Happy Mothers Daytell you that Mother’s Day is only 48 hours away. While this may seem to be another obvious greeting card holiday, don’t fall for the deception! Mother’s Day is a holiday that honors motherhood and takes many forms all over the globe. In America form of Mother’s Day was created in 1908 by Anna Jarvis, and became an official US holiday in 1914. (She later tried to denounce the commercialization of the holiday and spent much of her lifetime trying to remove the holiday from the calendar, but that’s a story for another day!)

There’s no question in our minds that parenthood, and motherhood, in particular, is one of the most challenging jobs that comes with its own share of sacrifices. Mother’s Day is a wonderful holiday that gives us all an opportunity to show the moms in our lives how much they mean to us.

Often, this gratitude comes in the form of gifts, but gifts don’t necessarily need to include the typical card and flowers. This Mother’s Day, think about giving a more creative present to the moms in your life with a few ideas:

  • Giving your time: Rather than giving a physical present, say, “I love you” with the gift of your time. In this day and age, it’s easy for time to get away with us. Spend Sunday doing the activity of her choice like going to church, seeing a movie or just spending the afternoon catching up. We are confident that mothers will agree that there’s nothing better than spending precious time together.
  • Taking on her usual duties: In life, we all have responsibilities that we don’t much care for. Whether it’s scrubbing toilets, washing dishes or eliminating loads of laundry, take one or all of those duties to give her a chance to put her feet up and relax. After all, how often does that actually happen at home?
  • Giving a gift that keeps on giving: It’s very likely that Mom has a special cause that she cares about. Help that organization carry on in their mission by giving a gift in her honor. If your mom is a Lions Pride supporter, consider giving an honorarium donation to help us continue preserving, providing and protecting for the Wisconsin Lions Camp and all WLF statewide projects. Click her for a memorial/honorarium form.

Remember that the best gifts in life don’t always come packed with ribbons and bows. This Mother’s Day, say “thank you” to the most important moms in your life with a present that she won’t soon forget. How do you plan to express your gratitude?

From all of us at Lions Pride, Happy Mother’s Day!

Centennial Eyeglass Challenge Travels to Green Bay

20 Thursday Apr 2017

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Centennial Eyelgass Challenge

Who’s ready for some… eyeglass recycling? If you’ve been following the Wisconsin Lions Centennial Challenge, then you already know that Lions are on a mission to collect used eyeglasses and deliver them for processing at the Eyeglass Recycling Center, here in Rosholt. But what you might not know is that the goal has increased.

Previously, Wisconsin Lions were aiming to collect 100,000 pairs of glasses (in honor of the Lions 100th year) from October 1 to May 6, but the goal has recently been updated to 250,000 pairs. If you have an extra pair of used eyeglasses sitting around the house, you can help us hit the target!

Eyeglasses can be donated in a couple of different ways:

  1. By donating to a local club. Many clubs are participating in area eyeglass recycling and will then deliver or shipped directly to the recycling center.
  2. By catching the WLF trailer during the Centennial Bus Tour. There are only 17 more stops left on the tour. You will likely see the trailer in area grocery stores, retailers and one other in fairly well known location to football fans in Green Bay – Lambeau Field Parking Lot.

    If you’ve been looking for an excuse to take a road trip to see the Packers Hall of Fame, you’ve got one. The WLF trailer will be parked in the Lambeau Field parking lot on Thursday, April 27, from 9 am to 3 pm. Consider donating your used glasses and then exploring Green Bay at your leisure.

    Can’t make it next week? Check out the rest of the Eyeglass Tour locations here.

Time is running out. The Centennial Eyeglass Challenge ends on Saturday, May 6. Keep in mind that all glasses will be sorted, cleaned and categorized before being distributed to someone in need; whether your eyeglasses are dirty, broken or a season behind in the fashion world, or look as good as new, we want them all.

Your pair of eyeglasses may be the pair that allows a father to improve the life of his family or helps a child to see and learn. Consider donating yours today!

Share Your Love of Pride This Valentine’s Day

09 Thursday Feb 2017

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The most romantic day of the yearlions-pride-valentines-day is right around the corner. If you are young (yes, at heart counts) and in love, you have probably already started planning ways to spoil your sweetie on Valentine’s Day, but have you thought about how you can share the love of your favorite non-profit?

If you’re a proud Lions Pride supporter, we have a few simple ideas for you:

“Like” and share on Facebook

Non-profit organizations have recently found that Facebook is an exceptional way to share their message. You can help Lions Pride spread the word by “liking” the Facebook page and sharing it with your friends. Simply update your status with a couple of reasons why you love support LPEF.

lions-pride-love

Volunteer

One of the greatest gifts you can give to Pride is the gift of time. Our annual shoot is the largest fundraiser of the year, which requires a lot of preparation. Volunteers help make the event a success. The 10th Annual Lions Pride Shoot will take place on Saturday, June 10. If you would like to get involved before the event, please contact us today. We could always use a helping hand.

Make a donation

Of course, one of the clearest ways to share your love is to make a special donation in the name of a friend or loved one. With your support, we can help educate others on the Lions Pride mission of becoming “today’s help, tomorrow’s hope.” Remember that even small donations make a big difference.

 

We are always looking for excuses to show appreciation for our supporters, and we think Valentine’s Day presents the perfect opportunity. Thanks to you, we have the chance to provide, preserve and protect the Lions Camp and other WLF statewide projects. We would not get nearly as far without your help.

From all of us at Lions Pride, we cannot thank you enough for your continued support. We truly are wild about you!

 

Holiday Preparation Stress Relief

15 Thursday Dec 2016

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It’s the most wonderful time of the year! holiday-dinner-prepWe’ve officially entered the middle of December, our ground is fully covered in snow, we’re slowly making our way through our shopping lists and likely have dozens of tasks that are in need to completing before the Big Day arrives. Is it just us, or could the most wonderful time of year also be replaced with the most stressful time of the year?

After doing a bit of research, it appears that we are not alone in our thinking. According to a poll conducted by the American Psychological Association, nearly a quarter of Americans feel “extreme stress” due to a lack of time, a lack of money or the pressure to give or get presents.

Fortunately, not all is lost. We don’t have to wish away the holidays, but rather take a few practical measures to minimize the stress that comes with the season:

  • Make a master list

    One of the biggest challenges of having so many items to tackle is that it is tough to keep them all straight. Make a master list where you have everything from presents to buy, goodies to bake and cards to mail.

  • Ask for help

    Often, many of the holiday tasks are assigned to one person in a household. If it just so happens, that you are that person, ask for help. You’ll get back by time by divvying up responsibilities and likely have more fun. Doesn’t enjoying a glass of eggnog while addressing envelopes with a loved one sound more delightful than completing them alone?

  • Stick with a budget

    Before shopping, determine a budget and stay committed to sticking with it. Remember, that money can’t buy happiness; it’s the thought that matters most. If you’re looking for alternatives to store bought gifts, create homemade gifts or donate to a charity in your recipient’s name, Lions Pride comes to mind.

  • Learn to say no

    Saying yes to too many obligations can leave you feeling overwhelmed, and eventually resentful. Don’t feel like you have to participate in all holiday activities; we guarantee that your loved ones will understand.

  • Take a break

    Although it may sound counterintuitive, remember the importance of rest during times of stress. Make time for yourself. Find an activity that clears your mind. Consider partaking in an activity that you can only do this time of year, like listening to Christmas music or taking a walk and admiring the lights.

We all agree that this time of year is definitely a busy one, but don’t let the stress of your To Do list stop you from enjoying the magic of the season. Remember to take a step back and truly think about the reason behind the season and enjoy every moment of the holidays. They will be here and gone before we know it!

Happy Holidays from Lions Pride.

Last Minute Tax Time Tips

14 Thursday Apr 2016

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Tax TimeThe countdown is on! We are only 96 hours away from the 2016 Personal Tax Deadline. Procrastinators can rejoice because the usual April 15th deadline has been pushed to Monday, April 18. You may be wondering why this year is different than past years, and the reason is due to a holiday usually only observed in Washington DC. Emancipation Day is a legal holiday that is celebrated on April 16, but since that falls on Saturday this year, the holiday will be observed on April 15.

Have you already taken care of your taxes? If so, good for you; if not, you are definitely not alone. Surprisingly, nearly 20% of all Americans wait until April to file their taxes. In fact, according to the IRS, the week of April 15 is typically the busiest week for tax filings.

If you still need to file, don’t stress, these tax tips can help make your job a little easier:

  • Avoid waiting any longer. E-file your return at irs.gov to submit your taxes for free.
  • If you cannot file online and plan on mailing your documents, be sure to pay special attention to collection pick-up times to ensure that it will be postmarked by April 18. It’s also a good idea to double-check that you have the right amount of postage.
  • If you don’t think you can complete your filings by the deadline, you have the opportunity to file for an automatic extension; however, be sure you understand these seven points before filing Form 4868.

Although many Americans file their taxes last minute year after year with no issues, there is no denying that that procrastination can cause unnecessary stress and increase the possibility of errors. Rather than waiting for next April, consider becoming more proactive to make the filing process easier on yourself next year.

  • Take your accountant out to lunch – If you aren’t in tune with all of the tax deductions and rules, you will likely have questions. With the 2015 Tax Season wrapping up, your accountant will have more time available to work with you. Now is the perfect time to find answers to your questions.
  • Create a charitable giving calendar – It’s easy to forget about charitable donations, especially when you’re in a time crunch. Rather than attending every fundraising event, create a plan that shows where you want to keep your contributions to go. You’ll also know exactly how much you are contributing and keep your giving in check.Did you know that Lions Pride offers an option for you to automate your contributions? Learn more about automated giving.
  • Review your withholdings – Now’s a great time to review the withholding amounts on your paychecks. For instance, if you overpaid this year, there’s no reason why you can’t adjust the values now and see a little more money every other week.

Read through more preparation tips for next year’s taxes.

Remember, the early bird catches the worm. Plan ahead now to save yourself time and frustration later on. Happy Tax Time from Lions Pride!

Disclaimer: The staff at Lions Pride are not tax experts. The tips listed above are merely from various sources from around the web. For any tax questions that you may have, please consult with your CPA or tax preparer.