Michael Moore's documentary, Fahrenheit 911 showed, among other things, that US troops often come from humble backgrounds. They shot recruiting scenes from ghettos, inner city projects and cities that have seen better days. Young men and women who have somehow survived their environment. People who know that they can be more if they are willing to make sacrifices. Youngsters who go, hoping and praying that they will come home alive.

Many do not have family. Some do, but spend their wages to support a family at home.

Nearly impossible, with average soldier wage of $6-7 dollars an hour.

Like most of us, I'm sure you're had moments of guilt as you enjoyed a great steak dinner, a hot shower, and an ice cold can of Coke- knowing that our soldiers are far from home and do not always have access to things we take for granted. But now, before busy shopping season is upon us, you can do something practical for these hard working soldiers.

Treats for Troops is brainchild of Deborah Crane, who was married to a soldier, had a son in Navy, and currently has a son in Air Force overseas. She realized that security concerns and complicated shipping regulations made it almost impossible for average citizens here at home to show their support and love to those on front lines. She created a web business that links needy soldiers with people willing to foster them. Sponsors can select their soldier based on home state, gender or branch of service. Deborah rotates soldiers names on a list, so that for now, it is one gift per soldier.

Deborah's goal is simple, to send a gift and make a soldier smile. And she has done that, and more by providing a safe and secure way to send a gift overseas. Her company has researched gifts that are practical, in demand and inexpensive to send.

Bill Owens, Governor of Colorado has publicly commended Deborah's efforts. Read his personal letter online: http://treatsfortroops.com/newsroom/story.php?id=8

Treats for Troops lets you do more than just wave a flag at home. And if you already have name and address of someone in military, you can specify gift is to go directly to them.

Many schools, organizations and corporations have joined in effort to warm our servicemen and women's hearts this holiday season, with a gift from home. I can't think of a nicer thing to do for someone. In return, you will either get an e-thank you or a postcard direct from soldier who received your gift. But be assured that your identity is kept confidential, so this is truly a no-risk opportunity. Everyone wins!

You can also send a card or letter from Treats for Troops website.

Because it normally takes 4-6 weeks to get a package to a soldier, NOW is time to start.

It all begins with announcement. From moment you’re told you are about to be a grandparent, nothing is same. My husband and I received our announcement on Christmas Day. Our daughter and son-in-law came to living room of their home to say “the test was positive, congratulations grand mom”. A new life had formed, a child was in wings. The excitement is indescribable. It is one of many times you realize that it is only through power of God that such a miracle would be possible. The months of preplanning begins by encouraging mom to eat and sleep properly, initiate planning baby shower with save date cards, helping to monitor gift registries and coordinating materials that would be useful after baby is born. Even selection of what mom and baby would wear on their first trip home is reminiscent of bridal planning process.

There are several issues, however, that are often overlooked during preparation phase. The future Grandmother needs to be proactive about getting ready for level of hands on input and support that will be needed from her before, during, and after birth. Essential elements of grandmother preparation should include one of several things:

Watching your diet, taking vitamins, starting an exercise program – you could be “actively” involved in birthing process. I was part of designated support team and, as such, participated in breathing exercises, hand holding and offering gentle conversations my daughter needed while experiencing labor pains. In addition to singing songs, stroking her head with a wet cloth throughout process, I reminded her of scripture verses that she could use as a source of her strength including “I look beyond hills from which cometh my strength. My help comes from Lord who made both heaven and earth”. (Psalm 121:1-2 KJV)