International faith-based humanitarian organization specializing in small-scale, grass-roots, sustainable solutions for disenfranchised, abandoned, and exploited people.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Three Mattenleys Scalped for Mercy League
Dear Friends,
I wish that I had the footage. I think that my attempt to hide a scowl, as the children cheered (and the adults pointed and laughed) while my head was shaved was an abject failure. People came to Kristie afterward and asked if I was really that upset. That's me though... I am bad at faking it. I try, but it doesn't work. What can you say when the director of the day camp for kids asks you if they can shave your head if they raise enough money, "I think we need an incentive to really get the kids involved in fund-raising this week." I reluctantly said yes, but if you know me, I have always had this thing about my hair. Kristie thinks it is hilarious, of course, but that is because she knows that it is good for me to get my ego jostled from time to time. : )
The deal was that if the little day camp in Drain, Oregon raised $250 they could shave my head (to the first setting on the clippers... no razors please). If they raised $300 I agreed to let them Shave Brendan's head. The final kicker was that they could shave Euan's head (our 4 month old baby) on the number 2 setting if they got to $400. Well the total was $417.15 so we were all done-for.
I wish that I could provide you with some pictures, but rest assured that they will end up here, and/or on Facebook. I think that they even have video of the scowling. I am a poor excuse of a good sport it seems, but I think that makes it more fun for everyone else.
In the end, we are all glad that we have a little more money to aid in the Dominican Project. We are also in need of funds for reincorporation in Oregon and further reorganization here in Oregon.
Thanks for all of your help. Stay tuned for developments in China, and fund-raiser dinners this fall!
Be Well,
Shane