BargainView
By Monica Barber
The sun creeped down the horizon sometime ago and I’m adjusting to writing in my car by overhead light. I excused myself from writing in the corner of Preservation Coffee so that the lovely people could get home. It’s shaped up to be another late night working on words for Ms. M. Somehow the thought occurs to me that I’m lucky I don’t have to do this everyday. I’m fortunate not to live in my car and blessed to know that after I’m done sending my emails, I have a home to return to. While it’s not ideal living circumstances, currently I have food, a warm bed and family surrounding me everyday. Being thankful is something we don’t often do because we don’t make room for it. Well much like your wallet, your gratitude can be budgeted in! Here’s some ways to appreciate others and give back locally this November
Dia de Los Muertos, also known as the Day of the Dead is a honored celebration in the Mexican Culture. It may sound grim, but it’s very much a celebration of living. You honor your loved ones that are dead. On November 1st Modesto welcomes the 2nd Annual Day of The Dead Celebration to the Centre Plaza. Live entertainment, dinner and dancing with proceeds to benefit The Annual Toy Drive. Tickets: $35. Students: $20. More info: 209-872-9415
Getting a frosty brew may not sound like a way to help your community but in fact, spending money locally shows your appreciation for Modesto! On November 8th, the Motown Brewfest welcomes over 16 breweries and resturaunts from the local area paired with live music. Tickets are $25 and will get you five 8oz drinks, fare for cuisine from any restaurant and an uber coupon to help you get home. Proceeds benefit the Mellis Scholarship Fund. Info: http://www.motownbrewfest.com/
Giving a little TLC from your helping hands by donating time to those in need is one of the most rewarding and immeasurably valuable things you can do to lift spirits. Interfaith Ministries always welcomes donations of clothing, money and time. On November 22nd they are teamed up with Artsy Folks to host a Holiday Boutique. Crafters, Artists and Vintage Vendors will be on site at the beautiful Mchenry Mansion to sell some Christmas goodness for a great cause. Check out Farmers Market and swing through! Info: http://interfaithmodesto.org/
The 2nd Annual ModShop arrives just in time for those Christmas gifts and wraps up your November in a lovely way. This annual locally endorsed public event celebrates and showcases independent artisans, crafters and designers right after Thanksgiving. Join together to support your favorite handcrafter or artistan November 29th from 6pm-10pm in Downtown Modesto along J Street. Info: http://www.modshop209.com/
Stay grateful for everything and remember to budget in time to appreciate each other! Happy November!
Kisses, m.
