I am a house. Ranch style, a few bricks and windows, nothing really special to look at from the outside. I used to take care of a wonderful family, but then, this family grew up, their needs changed, and so I was "retired".

I was getting used to my retirement thinking that my best days were behind me, when the most amazing thing happened.

I was stripped of my bricks, (it was a chilly few months), put on some sort of strange equipment that lifted me right off the ground (good thing I am not afraid of heights) and MOVED! What an exciting day that was.

When the dust settled, I was on a brand new foundation, I had new bricks and I had had some "reconstruction". It was a little painful for a few months, but it was worth it, you should see me now!

Today, I am filled to the "brim"! I am full of bedrooms, lots of them - I think I have 13, but don't quote me on that. My walls are filled with giggles, and peek-a-boos.

The rooms that were empty for a time are now filled with young moms and their babies. These moms are learning and growing and making plans for their future. They are learning new skills that will help them and their babies as they make a place for themselves in the world.

I always thought that retirement would be a quiet time- but not now! My walls which once nurtured and cared for one family, now nurture and care for a few more. I am bustling with activity- I have never felt so young! (It's amazing what a little plastic surgery will do.)

I even have a "name" - Hope House of Colorado!

There is just one thing about my house- there is a room that still needs a little attention. Right now, this room is empty. It's a small room. Okay, more like a closet. Anyway, I have heard that they have big plans for this closet. From what I understand, their goal is to fill this closet with things that these families need. I've never had any offspring of my own, but apparently, these little ones that come with these moms, have some special needs "on the bottom end of things", and they have a special diet too. They can't eat just anything, they need special food and milk.

I'd like to help them fill up this "resource closet" with supplies that these families need. They have done so much for me. I'd like to show them how much I care for them, by surprising them with getting these things.

Would you help me? If you would give me this money, I could arrange for someone to go to the store and buy the things that they need for this one last empty closet.

They would be so surprised. It would be my way of thanking them for this new life that they have given me. Who knew "retirement" could be so much fun? I always thought that I would rest and take this time in my life easy, but I feel younger than ever! (Although, if you think about it, could you send me some travel brochures? At least I could READ about an exoctic get away.)

I wouldn't ever dream about leaving though, I love my new job!