Empathy Resource Round-Up

Today I'm thinking about empathy. And my Dad. And Leah.

We recently took her to to breakfast when Dad was in town for Andy's baptism, and she insisted on opening the silverware for all of us. Now, I'm not saying that it was out of empathy as much as it was just fun for her, but hear me out: We are hard-wired for empathy and it's never too early for us to provide opportunities to model, teach, and nurture the empathy triFecta of head, heart, and hands.

Find a need (or want).

Feel a need (or want).

Fill a need (or want).

That's it; easy breezy, right?

So, today I'm thinking about what I would want (or need)

if I were still in the classroom working as a school counselor.

I've rounded up some resources for you, dear reader. Introducing my newest obsession, Crayola's partnership with Lip Smackers.

I gave these out to my high school PALs and they were

a huge hit. FYI: the Hello Sunshine was the least fave.

Next up, nature scented Flair pens? Write on!

I bought these for my counseling colleagues;

again, yellow was the least favorite.

Since every counselor cherishes books,

this treasure by Peter H. Reynolds tops my list.

Loving by heart. Deep sigh.

What about some songs that inspire change?

One of my all-time favorites is this Johnny Reid ballad.

His song, A Place Called Love, is also inspiring.

And sure, a fresh fruit and veggies tray sounds tasty,

but how about some Hugs and Kisses to sweeten things up?

Who can resist fuzzy socks for those cold winter nights ahead?

Kohl's has these on clearance, so I bought two!

Finally, and probably the best, really, is the gift of words. When I posted on Facebook that it was National School Counseling Week, and to remember to hug and/or thank your school counselor, I received these heartfelt affirmations that truly supercharge my empathy, compassion, and kindness crusade.

So, that's it. My idea of what would fill my emotional