I believe our lives are full of pictures, you create them every day by what you do, what you choose, where you go, and the times you pause and take life in. Of course, Instagram and smart phones make it easier to share pictures, but there are pictures that you want to remember forever.

I remember a picture of me and my dad that I will never forget. My father who was a professor at Widner University took me to Haiti with him and his class. As a young 7 year old, I remember the hotel, the plane ride and the amazing time that I had with him. The picture that has never left me though was actually an experience we had as we got into a cab after touring the city. There were children my age, or a little older asking us for money because to them, we were rich Americas. Wow, life changing.

We all have experiences that change our lives forever, and that was surely one for me. I will never forget Haiti, the land, the people or the experience, so when I saw the Heart of Haiti line that Macy’s carries, it made me smile. At 7, I remember feeling powerless to help all those kids, I wasn’t rich what could I do. I remember feeling terribly, I was a kid and as much as I wanted to help every one of those children I just didn’t have the money.

At 41 years old with more time and experience than I had at 7, I realize the power that each and every one of us holds to change the lives of others. We have the ability to make an impact and to help in many ways. This Heart of Haiti line is a picture of what it looks like to join with others and do something that can help empower a nation. The picture of that day never left my me, but now I have a new picture because I realize there are options. Opportunities to make a difference so now I can choose how I want to help!

As I walked through the streets of Haiti, there were beautiful pieces of art. Steel drum figurines, artwork, paper Mache items and pieces. Even today those memories filled my mind, they were creative, beautiful and unique pieces of art created by people with incredible artistic gifts.

As I saw the pieces that Macy’s included in their Heart of Haiti line, it brought me right back to my trip. Walking through the streets, seeing the people, eating the food, feeling the love. I have a beautiful picture frame on my desk, it is from Heart of Haiti, it reminds me of three things. One it is a beautiful reminder of a beautiful trip with my dad (who has since passed away). It reminds me that I am in charge of the picture of my life. Last but not least, it reminds me that every day I have the ability to change a life with my actions, words, and deeds.

The Heart of Haiti line that Macy’sells helps empower the people of Haiti, especially after the terrible Earthquake of 2010. It is a collection of houseware and jewelry items that change lives. If you go to the site http://www.macys.com/heartofhaiti

you can see the beautiful stories of the artists and the full collection. I would encourage you to check out this beautiful line of jewelry, art, and houseware items, not only will you be impressed, but when you purchase one, you will be doing many wonderful things at once.

This story and experiences are mine, but this post was sponsored by our friends at Everywhere, who gave us this cool Heart of Haiti frame!

 Share a story about a picture you remember, or a life changing moment that you will never forget!