Don't Fake It

Do you ever put on that smile, the smile where only half of your face is smiling?  You try really hard to make it all the way, but you just can't bear it.  The one where your teeth hardly show.  You think they don't know, but they do.  Oh, they know.  Those fake smiles, they are the worst.  Don't fake it, they'll know.

Previously I posted that my mom entered us in a makeover show on live television, contrary to a few bets from friends, it happened. For those of you who know me, you know it's not my cup of tea. For those of you who don't, well, it's not my cup of tea.  But, by doing the show it raised awareness for Locks of Love and with the help of amazing friends and family we raised over $1,000 for the Linda Norgrove Foundation.  Not to mention, my mom got a fabulous makeover - video to come soon.  During this whole process the ladies at Haven Salon and Azure were amazing and treated us so well.  But, as previously mentioned, pampering is outside of my comfort zone.  I tried, oh, I tried so hard to smile and love it.  But when the fancy dress, red lip stick and bangs (oh the bangs!) came out, in return was a half smile.  I faked it. They knew. 

I am dreading seeing this video.  What could be worse than seeing yourself fake it, right?  And I know I am quite possibly the worst faker in the world.  For what matters to me in life, is what is real. 

The energy of the ladies at Haven and Azure was real, that I loved.  And I believe the donated hair and money is going to a real cause.  Behind the fake smile, was something real. 

If you do have to fake it... Find what's real.

Join Me...

Recently, I left Afghanistan and returned to the States where we are blessed and fortunate enough to have never truly struggled with education or healthcare needs. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for a majority of the women in Afghanistan.

When I return to Wisconsin, my mother has asked me to take part with her in a live television event – where I will give up something of mine – my hair. For the sixth time I will be donating my hair to Locks of Love.

Therefore, I am asking for your support, as I support the Linda Norgrove Foundation, a new grant giving trust which provides funding for women, families and children in Afghanistan. The Foundation offers help with regard to education and health, childcare including orphanages, and scholarships so that Afghan women can go to University.

I know these things may seem unrelated, but oddly, to me they are not. The quote "To those whom much is given, much is expected," explains it all. As I leave Kabul, help me leave something behind. As always, thank you for all of your support.

Please go to http://www.virginmoneygiving.com/AnnaElizabeth to see my fundraising page and sponsor me online.

For all of those who contribute to the cause, I will share the video of the show - which is sure to be a treat if you know my mother, and if you know my fear of cameras.  :)

Thanks so much for all of your support, always!  

Again, please go to http://www.virginmoneygiving.com/AnnaElizabeth to support the cause.