Christmas Wishes

Written in 1986 ~ what seems to be FOREVER ago . . .

Christmas Wishes '86

Although dulled by a year of warm weather
Christmas spirits once more are brightened
Lights, in the windows, are flashing
Hearts, by the music, are lightened

Wreaths are hung in the doorways
Mistletoe's sought by the vine
Icicles form from the gutters
The cold in the air chills your spine

The snow on the ground's brightly gleaming
The white in the air drops with grace
The children are out building snowmen
Rudolph-red noses on each little face

It's the truth that the holiday season
Is but the end of a year without friends
Wishing health & wealth & merriment
Coincidently, just what this poem sends.

A little rough, I know, but I was just a youngen at the time. The premise is perfect and the purpose is plain to see! Enjoy your holiday season. Merry Christmas to all!

Presence, Not Presents!

In unpacking my many crates, boxes and wrapped up Christmas decorations, as is the case every year, I am swept away by emotions and memories of where certain things came from and who gave them to me. It is sometimes bittersweet, but always festive. If those folks have gone too soon, I know that they'd never want me saddened by their presents, but festive with their presence!

There's a musical, full-moving carousel that my mom purchased for me many years ago. It's beautiful, big, and very loud! It makes me smile! There are beautiful porcelain nativity scenes that I earned while selling Christmas Around the World. They make me proud. There are Santas from years gone by from hubby and friends. Santas make my heart happy! Of course there is a "first Christmas" ornament that is out all the time that my brother gave me - and now no longer speaks to me. That one hurts my heart, but I know that somewhere in his soul he still loves and cares about me. There are Angels from friends and cute little Christmas trinkets from family too. It's just a holiday filled with warmth and love.

I hope that as you decorate for your holidays, it is not about being more festive that the house next door. It's not about how many lights, or how many decorations you can stuff on or in your house. It is about the meaning behind, perhaps, every one of them. Get lost in your own Winter Wonderland this year - even if it's 80 degrees. Enjoy the memories you've made; and look forward to the memories yet to be made. Treasure the presence, not the presents!

Much love now and always ~

Generation Gap

There is definitely a generation gap in my family. Recently, I spoke to a brother of our fantastical Thanksgivings of long ago where it seemed there were hundreds of relatives and friends all coming together to feast and to just exist peacefully together. It seemed to be a magical time. He expressed his sadness that our children, because of fragmented sibling relations, would never experience such a gathering and a fellowship. It is truly a sad thing to realize that a "community" will be lost because we've have grown apart. I find it pitiful for our children. They deserve to live those magical moments, too.

And so, in a 'Billy Bots' moment, I sent out a mass text to all my nieces and nephews to join together at my home for next year's Thanksgiving. They are expected to bring spouses, housemates, children, and . . . should they be too young . . . they can even bring their parents. If their parents cannot seem to find some stable, common ground to stand on; maybe they will be encouraged to connect, stay in touch, and build their own relationships on their own terms and carry on and continue a tradition that seems to be fading. Wouldn't it be fantasmagorical if they chose to continue this tradition and met around the country at various cousin's houses for Thanksgivings? What a wonderful ripple I could start!

I can only hope that these young men and women are able to bridge the generation gap that others have caused. I apologize to you all if any of it stems from my actions or behavior. I am doing what I am able to fix and remedy the situation. So come oooooooooon down, or over, or up, or whatever and feast on delicious food, solidify family relations, and maybe your generation can help bridge the gap for us older folks!

And hopefully, this idea might spur some other folks to come up with a similar action. Bridge your generation gap.

To speak or not to speak

So, in having dealt with customer service most of my life (seriously, for the past 36 years), it is only recently that I have realized the value of when to speak and when NOT to speak!

When I was younger, and obviously knew everything, I'd be quick to point out other people's mistakes and my incredibly superior intelligence. As I have aged, and understood how much is to gain by listening and observing, I have learned that that approach may not always be best. Sometimes, it is best to bite your tongue and just point your shoes in another direction. Or, in fact, to listen and learn. And then, there are those times when you are simply subjected to someone's rant or crazy actions and you really have no escape. These are the times when you are truly tested and can learn the most about yourself, your limitations, your stamina, and your resolve.

Two weeks ago, while in Publix, a woman in a motorized shopping cart backed into a free-standing rack of on-sale gum. Needless to say, there were gum packs everywhere. This woman did not even look behind her. She put her cart in forward and continued on her way. I was left standing there, staring at this huge mess that obviously needed to be cleaned up. I put down my basket and purse and began uprighting the stand and putting the gum packs back in there. Shortly thereafter a woman came from the opposite direction with her cart of Thanksgiving items. She stopped, out of necessity, due to the three packs of gum in front of her cart. She picked them up, handed them to me, and continued on her way. The younger me would have eagerly and quite excitedly thrown those packs of gum at her tiny little head. The older, more learned, me took a deep breath and continued to clean up the mess. No harm. No foul. The task was done and no one was injured.

Black Friday shoppers are not always the happiest of people. They are out to find "the deal of the century". You'd think they'd be all atitter with excitement. Not so much. It's  more like put on your helmets and shoulder pads and get in a three-point stance! What made things worse was having to work with folks who think recovery people are at the bottom of the proverbial totem pole. If recovery doesn't recover, folks don't have items to buy. If recovery doesn't straighten the dressing rooms, you don't have product on the floor. Every job is vital to make the machine run smoothly. To maintain silence is not always the best policy. I was told to stay and clean a fitting room. Two doors down there was a lone cashier with at least five racks of clothes in hers. I said, "Your room is clean, she has no help. I will be over there." Not two minutes later the store manager was in the first area and I overheard her say, "She needs to go where they need help. You're fine here." Tiny victories are amazing! Even if I did spend the next five hours cleaning up the second fitting room.  (Note to shoppers: Put stuff back where it goes, clean up your dressing room items, and be nice to the employees!)

Sometimes you speak. Sometimes you listen. Sometimes you just don't waste your breath. Pick your battles and fight when you need to. And enjoy your holiday season!   :-)

I wish . . .

Let loose the merriment!

Thanksgiving and Christmas are my favorite times of the year. I drive my family nuts playing Christmas music in the car, in the house, and generally just humming or singing Christmas tunes non-stop. I have a plethora of collected Santas and Angels that greet visitors throughout my home along with always trying to keep the house smelling festive by cooking or baking. And, when the true meaning of Christmas finds its way into your house and home, not a thing in the world can squelch the joy!

I enjoy finding those perfect presents for friends and family. I adore writing out the Christmas cards, although Lenny always beats me to the punch!  xoxo  Putting up the outside lights is always a laugh riot as, although I'm not really allowed to climb on the roof, I sometimes do or help hubby as he strings a few expletives along with the twinkling strands! There is just abounding laughter and that truly makes my heart happy!

There are rituals my family follows. My brothers will remember this one:  You can only empty stockings before eating breakfast, which needs to be a family meal, and then ~ and only then ~ can you meander under the tree. Hubby reads the kids "Twas the Night Before Christmas" the night before Christmas. Not sure how that will work this year. Each present gets opened for everyone to see. None of this tearing everything open before you even know who it's from or before heading to the next one. It is a day to slow down, enjoy the day, enjoy each other, and truly marvel at the wonder of Christmas.

I am wishing you a happy holiday season. I hope you have friends and family nearby. I hope you create your own special activities and rituals. I hope you make merry memories to last a life time. I wish you Peace. I wish you Love. I wish you . . . Christmas!

Thanks!

To
Honor &
Acknowledge
Niceties,
Kindness, &
Servitude

I am thankful for so many things; too many to mention. It is easy to remember to give thanks today, but let's try to remember to give it every day!

Frolic with family and friends. Devour delectable dishes. Be thankful for all things, good and bad, that have allowed you to be what you are today. You are loved ~ and I am thankful for you!

Enjoy Dessert

In honor of my mom, whom I will miss dearly this Thanksgiving (and every day), I'm offering you her most favorite of my desserts for this Thanksgiving. If any of you give it a shot, please let me know how you like it. Whenever she came here, she'd request it. This one's for you mom! I am thankful for all you have given me, taught me, shared with me, and bestowed upon me. I miss you! Enjoy dessert!

4 Layer Pie

Layer One
1-1/2 cups flour, 1-1/2 stick margarine melted, 1/2 cup nuts (I use sliced almonds)
Mix together and pat into a well-greased full size loaf pan. Bake in 350 degree oven for 15 minutes.
Let cool.

Layer Two
1 package 8 oz. cream cheese (softened), 1 cup confectioner's sugar, 1 cup cool whip
Mix well together and even out over Layer One

Layer Three
2 pkgs instant chocolate pudding made according to directions.
Pour evenly over Layer Two

Layer Four
Top off with remaining cool whip and top with slivered almonds (or nuts of your liking)

Refrigerate and devour when hungry!
Enjoy Dessert!

Feasting

In thinking about Thanksgivings past; I must say I have become a little melancholy. Don't get me wrong. I have an incredible amount of things to be thankful for. They far outweigh the troubles, but . . .

When I was very young, we spent most Thanksgivings at "Poppa," my grandmother's, home. It was a grand place to gather. There were at least seven of us, plus the seven other aunts and uncles and their spouses, boyfriends, girlfriends, or whatever; and then friends, too. The adults ate in the dining room and it seems I never made it out of the kitchen and away from the kiddy table.

Some years later, as my aunts and uncles aged, the venue shifted to our house. We even splurged on restaurant-style tables with serious folding leaves that could literally take off a finger if you weren't careful. I think it was a good many years before I made it to the adult table here, but I just remember all the smells and what seemed to always be like a hundred people. The house was always full of family and friends. It was spectacular.

As I grew up and flew the proverbial coop, I began my own Thanksgivings with my family. We had an occasional expansive dinner with Vic's family because they live much closer, but mostly, it was just the four of us. And now . . . since Deanna and her boyfriend ate dinner with us last year, they will be dining at Nick's mom's house this year. Dinner is down to three. In another year or so, it may just be Vic and I staring at each other across the table with a whining, gray-haired Max begging for scraps at our feet.

I realize that time marches on and lives evolve and change. There will always be an empty seat at our table for those who have left us far too early, but to have those seats empty because lives have developed is a hard pill to swallow. I'm sure I will fill the void and learn, in time, to go to my kids' homes to enjoy Thanksgiving, but for now . . . I will simply marvel at all the fabulously fond memories I've had through the many years of feasting, friends, and family and get my fill that way.

If you are lucky enough to be surrounded with family on Thanksgiving, cherish every moment. Even if you've got a crazy aunt or sleepy grandfather or crying babies. It's all good and, in time, you'll miss those things. I am truly Thankful for my memories, my friends, my family and my many, many Thanksgivings!

Feast well, my friends . . .

Latitude and Longitude

On a good day, with some decent shoes on, without some post-workout-pain-hunch, I stand a whopping 5'5". Not very impressive, right? I'm thinking it's not even average any more as I used to mentor at the high school and felt like a grade-schooler. But today I struggle to impress upon you that it is not the size of the skeleton that matters, but the size of the heart that lies within it!

I could have physically and literally looked down on Beethoven, Capote, Andrew Carnegie, Sammy Davis Jr., and Houdini. And Al Pacino is only an inch taller than me. Yet these figures have captured audiences and moments in history forever! Size really does NOT matter!

With faith the size of a mustard seed, you can say to the mountain "Move!" and it will be so. What is inside each one of us propels us toward our dreams and aspirations. Achievement is not measured with the height of your tallest, gelled-up hair. It is measured by the faith, grit, and determination you pour into your endeavors.

Fame and fortune are relative matters. I cannot afford a Ferrari, but I am truly richer than most. I have fabulous brothers, an incredible family, an outstanding network of friends and support, I have met my goal of having published books and poetry, and continually strive to meet new goals. Now THAT matters . . . to me. We grow as tall as we need to be on the outside. I am hoping that you continue to always grow on the inside. Learn, read, educate yourself, experience new things, expand your horizons and know that your latitude might be limited, but your longitude is entirely up to you!

The joy of cleaning . . .

Cleaning!   :-(

Does anyone ever get excited about cleaning? I sit and stare at my tornado-must-have-come-through house and know I have to straighten it up and clean, clean, clean. I know I'm going to need coffee, and lots of it, to begin this task. There is that weighted dread knowing that I will begin by cleaning off the dining room table, but will find something that goes somewhere else and see the mess there and begin cleaning that mess, only to find something that belongs in the dining room and be caught in the cleaning spiral of death. It never ends and you just find yourself walking around in circles.

Slowly, though, things find their home, order finds its place, and a strange serenity takes root. You could, almost literally, fall over from exhaustion, but the counter's clean, the table's clean, the laundry's done, the bathroom's are sparkly, the floor's are swept and vacuumed and . . . there is peace! And, in your exhaustion, you find a kernel of exhiliration and realize that if you can do that, you can do anything! There is a feeling of accomplishment and contentment. You pat yourself on the back and realize you've done a marvelous thing. What a fabulous feeling of freedom and finishing.

Until you realize it's Thanksgiving, you've got family coming over in two hours and you haven't even started cooking! Smile, friends. Today I'm feeling a little silly! Enjoy your day!

Pets are People, Too

Some of you will 'get' this and others it will lightly skip right over your heads. For those of you lucky enough to have had pets, this is for you.

Growing up, there was a plethora of constant companions in our home. We had bunnies - which the weasel or something got; baby chicks - which our cat got; tons of cats and kittens - which our giant Newfoundland sometimes got; and a forever flow of pooches. We were caretakers of wounded critters and pet-sitters for friends who went vacationing.

The dogs I remember were a German Shepherd, Newfoundland, Beagle-mix, and a St. Bernard. When we wanted to have a cat, a friend caught a wild cat and so began that journey. On various Thanksgivings, with all kinds of friends and family showing up, there was a 'dog on every tree'. It was really kind of neat. And every one of those pets was a blessing - each with his or her own story and history and memories.

When I met and moved in with my husband, he left me a message after work one day that there was a surprise in the apartment but I had to find it. After quite a while, actually, I found and fell in love with a tiny little Scottish Terrier, Floyd. Floyd helped my kids grow up. Floyd moved from an apartment and running around in Chastain Park, to our house in Marietta, to our homes in Florida. He was very adaptable and a fabulous pooch. In the end, he had had to have his ear quilted, an infected toe removed and finally a 106 degree fever forced us to put him down. It was terrible. A wonderful book of memories about Floyd gave us an outlet for our grieving and to forever enshrine him into our family memories.

Several months later, without that unconditional love awaiting us each day, we got Maximus - the runt of a thirteen puppy litter. If you know Max, he's not much of a runt any more - weighing in around 85 -90 pounds. He has aged with the children and now is prematurely grey, much like Vic and I. He is as much a member of our family as any of the four of us. He speaks, whines, cries, celebrates, and again, loves us without fail, reason, or condition. He is, in every sense, a Marinello.

My dear friend and neighbor, within a month's time witnessed his mother AND father both passing away and then but a few days later had to put his thirteen year old lab down. Mom and dad are one thing, but to top it off with your pooch is just an entirely different story. There is such a bond and a unity you create with your pets that folks without them just don't understand. There is nothing they wouldn't do for you and there is certainly nothing you wouldn't do for them. Pets are people too!

Today, if you are a pet person, squish your critter. Love them and give 'em a little extra attention. They deserve it. No matter how hectic your day may be, they are there - without exception, waiting to love you like they do EVERY day, no matter what. Reciprocate!

Buck the trend!

I just read someone's post on Facebook this morning about how he has come to enjoy the "recent trend" of people being positive and nice in their postings. Something along those lines. And I praise you for realizing the difference, my friend!

For EVER I have been talking about the strength of words. When your energy has failed, your muscles ache, your stamina has been completely drained . . . you will ALWAYS have control and command over your mouth!

A kind word, a pleasant "Good Afternoon!," or maybe, "Isn't that a great color on you?" can just do wonders for another human being. What is so very interesting, though, is the benefits it holds for you! Your actions and speech toward another human being begins, as I have reiterated in the past, a ripple effect. You will probably never know its end result, but you should be thrilled in knowing that something wonderful started with a simple, effortless, kind, and gentle word! That knowledge plants a seed within you to do it again, to feel that same euphoric, genuine happiness again.

When you're frazzled . . . and let's face it, we've all been there . . . it's easy to snap at people. Is it their fault your car didn't start, bills aren't paid, bad hair day, or whatever might have set you off? Most likely . . . no! So don't take it out on a stranger; when, undoubtedly they may be facing the same insanity you are. Instead, buck the trend! Do something different. Throw the universe off kilter. Say something NICE!!!

The power of the human voice is 100 times stronger than any muscle you possess! Wield it wisely, my friend!

Thanks Mom!

I am well aware that my most wonderfully, amazing mom is always watching over me. I know she keeps me safe and helps to lead me where I need to be. There are days that my heart is heavy, though, and I really, really miss her. Sometimes, I know that what I write comes from either something she instilled deeply within me . . . or just something she'd like to have me pursue for the day.

After I wrote, yesterday, of a Happy Heart I headed in to take a shower. I am not normally a shower singer. I bathe, I dress, I'm gone! As I stepped into the shower yesterday, I began to sing a tune . . . the entire tune . . . and knew that momma had enjoyed my blog for the day and was simply adding to it. The '68/'69 tune by Andy Williams would not really be anything most folks my age would know, I don't think. I would have only been two or three at the time of its release. This song came directly from my mom. She used to sing it, taught it to us, and it came through loud and clear yesterday! Thanks, momma, for simply touching base and letting me know you're there, enjoy the blogs, and for . . . my Happy Heart.

There's a certain sound always follows me around
When you're close to me you will hear it
It's the sound that lovers hear when they discover
There could be no other for their love

It's my happy heart you hear singing loud and singing clear
And it's all because you're near me, my love
Take my happy heart away let me love you night and day
In your arms I wanna stay, oh my love

Feeling more and more like I've never felt before
You have changed my life so completely
Music fills my soul now, I've lost all control now
I'm not half, I'm whole now with your love

It's my happy heart you hear singing loud and singing clear
And it's all because you're near me, my love
Take my happy heart away let me love you night and day
In your arms I wanna stay, oh my love

Let your heart sing today . . .

A Happy Heart . . .

It truly makes my heart happy to do good things for other people.

I just helped do a drive for holiday gifts for Ronald McDonald House and All Children's Hospital for the upcoming holidays. The Ronald McDonald House liaison left with a carload of stuff and a little bit of cash to boot! The hospital has several boxes of items as well and both were blessed with a whole box each of beautiful hand-crocheted blankets by a dear guild branch member. What kindness and generosity sat in those boxes. What joy and blessings will be extended by those offerings. Thanks to those that assisted!

I should be receiving another trinket I had the distinct pleasure of making for an incredible friend of mine. The shop teacher at the middle school here just held an incredible Veterans Day ceremony and I've captured it in a book made tangible by mypublisher.com. This is an incredibly easy to use program and they make extraordinary gifts. Should you ever be looking for a unique wedding, shower, graduation, or birthday present . . . please check them out. Since it was announced at this Veterans Day ceremony that the shop teacher would be retiring, this book will be quite a fabulous keepsake for him. Shhhhhhhh! He doesn't know he's getting it! On another note, I also made books for all my brothers and step-dad after my mom passed away. I know I cherish mine very much. I hope they enjoy thumbing through theirs every now and again, too!

And today, I meet up with a gentleman who just oozes with the need to share the blessings he has been inundated with. He's a genuine, kind, giving, charismatic soul . . . and I've only talked to him over the phone. I really cannot wait to meet him. He might be my new best friend. I think it is vital to surround yourself with folks who believe what you believe, strive to achieve the same things you're after, and are supportive of your actions. This gentleman seems to be all that and then some. He will be assisting in our All Children's Hospital endeavors and I'm very much anticipating our meeting and awaiting what I know will be a magical outcome.

I know a lot of folks are having a hard time right now. In helping others, we often help ourselves. I hope those of you who are seeking an opportunity, take the opportunity to help someone else today. What comes back to you, I know, will make your heart happy too!

Be You!

Some folks were meant to do magnificent feats and achieve great things. Salk and the polio vaccine. Jarvik and the artificial heart. Parks and racial equality. And a host of other people who have been able to make strides in research, health care, race & sexual standards, etc.

What about the rest of us? Most think they are here for the race of rats; the daily grind; the task of getting from one weekend to the next. I beg to differ.

Every person reading this and the bazillions who are not, each have something to offer this vast expanse of humanity. Some write. Some sing. Some teach. Some speak. Some counsel. Some defend. Some dance. Some perform. Some paint. Some preach. Some are caregivers. Some raise families. Some enlighten. Some create. Some serve. Some protect. Some explore. Some honor.

Each of those tasks, as mundane or unimportant as they may seem at the time, have a ripple effect you cannot comprehend. One smile changes the entire day of the recipient, who will in turn help out someone in minor distress, who goes home thrilled with a stranger's generosity and tells the story which causes the audience to continue the trend. What you do makes a difference. What you offer can change lives. What you contain within you can change the world.

I'm sure that Salk and Jarvik and Parks, were every day folks who played games as children, and grew up as very normal folks for their historical eras. Their efforts and endeavors to make a difference ~ made the difference. You may be the next big news story. You may also continue to quietly, effectively, and beautifully change the world around you with your incredible value and worth and passion.

Be you! You matter. You make a difference.

Thank You!

No quotes from others today. No scripture. No tales of long ago.

Today, I just want to say thank you!

Thank you to my niece who is giving up smoking! Thank you to my great-niece, who really is a GREAT niece and whose pictures so remind me of my Deanna. Thank you to the varied opinions of my friends that keep debates and discussions lively. Thank you for Words with Friends, or whatever game it is that keeps my brain active. Thank you for seeing old friends and making new ones. Thank you for my health. Thank you for my perseverance and grit. Thank you for my incredibly beautiful and amazing children. Thank you for the folks that compliment me on my incredibly beautiful and amazing children. Thank you for the most amazing husband I could ever hope for. Thank you for the breath taking area in which I've taken root. Thank you for my aging pooch who is about as cute as they come. Thank you for folks that support my endeavors. Thank you for my victories. Thank you for my challenges. Thank you for my brothers ~ who may not always play nicely with one another . . . or with me . . . but without them, I'd be lost. Thank you for laughter, and oceans, and nature, and tears, and work. Thank you for yesterday. Thank you for today. Thank you for sports, and dance, and music, and books. Thank you for hand written letters, emails, and Facebook. Thank you for my talents and thank you for my quirks. Thank you for my setbacks and thank you for my opportunities.

Thank you!

Gotta Love Henry

Today's tidbit came from one Henry Ford; a fairly intelligent, forward-thinking sort of gentleman.

"One of the greatest discoveries a man makes, one of his great surprises, is to find he can do what he was afraid he couldn't do."

Let that sink in for a minute. Now read it again!

When I was in high school and on the gymnastics team, I adored the floor exercise. It was quite an expressive outlet and all kinds of fun. Problem was that I, kind of like Henry Ford, was a forward-thinking person. I could do all kinds of tricks forward . . . but was terrified of going backwards. In my junior year, something snapped. Don't know if it was the boyfriend appendage or just the thought that this portion of my life was nearing an end, but I just swallowed that fear and gave it a shot. I amazed myself with backhandspring series, sommies, pikes, and all kinds of stuff. Once I got a taste of it, you couldn't stop me. Although I was nicknamed 'Lynnie the Pooh,' I was much more aligned with the Tigger persona.

On the golf course, I played pretty well and thoroughly enjoyed the game. I kind of got bored, though, just playing with my brothers all the time. I wanted another challenge. There were two teams at the club where we belonged . . . the A team and the B team . . . both of which were boys. I inquired about joining, even though I was petrified about playing with strangers in a truly competitive environment. I was told I'd have to play from the men's tees and challenge 1 to 2 players above and start at the bottom of the B team. By the end of high school, I had made the A team! Travelling to various clubs around the area was quite an experience and I recall the painstakingly slow welcome I received from male team mates until one day in Woodstock, on a beautiful par 3, where I hit the pin on my drive and nearly made a hole-in-one. Things changed after that. Fear had held me back, but now with the A team's support . . . 'I pity da fool!'

Public speaking is a dreaded activity for most people. Some folks just have the knack for it. Others, like myself, have all kinds of issues with it. . . . I look horrible; I sound like Minnie Mouse; I need to lose weight; no one wants to hear what I have to say . . .  and a hundred other excuses. Then one day, my Christmas fantasies came true when a distributor for 'Christmas Around the World' came into the print shop and inquired about having business cards made. I knew, from attending previous parties, that the perks for the demonstrators were terrific . . . so, once again, I suppressed those trepidations and signed up. I was standing in people's living rooms, barely knowing some of the hostesses, with upwards of 30 strangers sometimes, . . . talking! Truly out of character for me, but I was very successful and very happy. People DID want to hear me . . . whether I think I sound like Minnie Mouse or not.  People booked parties and more parties. It was super and I truly came out of my shell with that experience.

Fear is a weight that, if you allow it, will drag you to the depths of depression. To drop that weight, you will find that not only is your load lightened, but your entire horizon has changed. You are not so very interested in your shoes; but seem to be able to absorb a whole new surrounding; a new vision; opportunity! Had Henry allowed his fears to determine his fate . . . we might still be using the horse and buggy.

Happy Veterans Day

Veterans Day is tomorrow. A day to honor those who serve this country and those who have given the ultimate sacrifice for others. God bless you all!

I will attend a local service tomorrow. I will cry. I will feel that patriotic lump in my throat and weight on my heart as I see Veterans throughout the day and try to thank each and every one. And I will cry. I will listen to a speech by a 30 year veteran whose younger brother was named after another brother who was killed in Okinawa days before his birth. I will cry again. My mind will wander to my dad, Calvin; my step-dad, Alfred; my father-in-law, Salvatore; my pseudo-uncle, Lenny; my step-dad, Alfonso; my brothers, Bill, Jim, and Skip; my nephew, Nick; and the masses of folks I'll never have the pleasure of meeting but whom I have the utmost respect and admiration for. The tears that fall will be somewhat sad in nature, but moreso, they will be red, white, and blue in color.

A simple acknowledgement is all that's necessary to touch the heart of a veteran. Just chat with them. The history lesson is far more extensive than anything you'll ever hear in school. Let them know you appreciate their sacrifice and their endeavors so that you may enjoy your freedoms. What a glorious group of human beings. We truly owe them everything!

Enjoy the day and all it holds dear to you.

A true gift!

I have often touted on here about surrounding yourself with good people. Last night, I was blessed to have been literally flanked by two extraordinary human beings. The night was spent at an All Children's Hospital Volunteer Recognition event. It was fabulous, to say the least!

On one side, an amazing leader who I was initially intimidated by, but have since learned that she is just a genuine person, full of warmth and a sincere passion to lead. On the other side, sat a beautiful soul who truly touched my heart last night. She spoke openly and eagerly about battles that she has faced in her life. She described in painstaking detail of trials, tribulations, and triumphs like we were chatting over morning coffee. And, without another word or thought of all of that, simply went on to tell of her desires to extend courtesies to others that she thinks is so very vital to maintaining friendships and common decency.

What touched me so very deeply was what she kept saying. "You never know how many lives you touch by your actions as a volunteer. I hear so many stories of people being affected by the kindness of volunteers." I'm not sure that this person ever realized how much she was talking about HERSELF! She gives and gives and gives without the slightest inclination of what might come back to her. She offers her time, her talents, her sincere and genuine spirit, her kindness, her ear, her shoulder, her counsel, her heart with only the thought that this is what every person is supposed to do. She allowed me into her life and enlightens me and supports me in my endeavors. What a blessing and a Ch-Angel!

And honestly, she was just one of 200 people there last night - mere clones of herself. What a group of dedicated and amazing people. What an honor to be affiliated with them in any minute way. What a joy and a blessing to be friends with them. A true gift!

Take pictures . . .

"Take pictures, leave only footprints." Not sure where this little tidbit came from, but it stems from the necessity to not litter or destroy the beauty of nature. I think, though, there is much more to be pulled out of this tiny little phrase.

'Take pictures' . . .
Memories are the pictures of our lives. I think we must cherish the fabulous times in our lives. Family, friends, accomplishments, good deeds, and positive impacts we have made. These mental snapshots create a scrapbook that no one can destroy, alter, or take from you. Friends and family that are pulled away too soon linger on as vividly as you choose for them to. Victories are savored and relived abundantly; as they should be. Achievements and goals we meet should be occasionally taken down and dusted off to remind us of our hard work and dedication. 'Take pictures' of all those glorious parts of your earthly inhabitance.

'Leave only footprints' . . .
We create, in our wake, an intangible tapestry of our lives. We touch lives. We heal hearts. We hug, we hold, we mend, we cheer, we rally, we advocate. We cry, we fight, we laugh, we scream, we dance, we celebrate. We joyfully and almost unknowingly create all those things from the 'Take Pictures' portion for other people. You don't need to leave behind buildings or streets with your name on the placards. You don't need to leave piles of vast fortunes and amassed wealth. To leave behind the footprint of who you are is a beautiful and privileged opportunity for each one of us. Glory and accolades don't make your footprint any deeper. It is the number of paths your footprints cross that make the memories!

Today, my friends, 'Take pictures, leave only footprints'.

Idle Hands

Maybe I misunderstood. My mother always taught me and certainly led by example that, "Idle hands are the devil's workshop." It might have been the continuous caffein intake, but she was forever busy with a project, new business venture, coming up with songs, or something creative. I believe that, more than anything else, she instilled and infused that into every child she had!

For those of you that know me well, you know I have an issue with saying "no" to folks that ask for my help. They will advise me, "Just say it with me:  N . . . O . . .". I tell them that's all fine and dandy, but there's always someone standing not too very far away with a rapid and demanding "W!" I really must learn to be a little more assertive.

My children are 18 and 20 years old. I am still eagerly and feverishly working on the 5th grade t-shirts at their elementary school each year. I do miscellaneous projects at their middle school and am supposed to be mentoring at both their middle and high schools. I am the president of the All Children's Hospital Guild North Pinellas Branch, and take every opportunity to advocate for the hospital and The Children's Dream Fund. I listen intently to folks and what talents and abilities they possess so that maybe I can later pair them up with projects or connections to mutually benefit them and either the hospital or Dream Fund. I am my hubby's secretary and do special tasks to help him be better and look better at his job. That's one of my favorites! I adore how the old grapevine works and will always send along worthwhile messages and purposes to others. And, now, I've got a seasonal gig to boot! Aaaaaaaaaaaaah, spare time . . . who needs it?

Seriously, though, I wouldn't have it any other way. I enjoy the season of giving; which for me . . . is every minute of every day. Why narrow it down to just a single portion of the year? If I've got the time, energy, money, or talent . . . it is yours for the taking. You need only ask for help! I will happily and joyfully give you whatever I've got. That is what my mommy taught me! I know she's watching and smiling and she wouldn't let me rest on the above paragraph's laurels. She'd ask me when my next children's book is coming out. Ha! I miss her prodding!

The devil has no workshop here!

Be an architect

We are all here for some special reason. Stop being a prisoner of your past. Become the architect of your future.
~ Robin Sharma

We are all builders of one sort or another. Some of us sculpt lives by teaching. Some of us sculpt minds by counseling. Some of us sculpt futures with our careers. But we each have the tools to create. We each have some task to perform to build a better world.

Many times, we condemn ourselves by our failures or our mistakes. The only person able to take away your self esteem and determination, is you. Do not allow what should be the stepping stones of your life, to alter your purpose. I have a friend who has within him the ability to move the masses with his oratory and preaching prowess. When I say 'move,' I mean emotionally AND physically. It's amazing!Sadly, though, life threw him several curve balls and, no doubt, he tried to steal a few bases too. The choices he made after those humps and hurdles led to a lot of finger-pointing and blaming of others. It's a sad, sad thing to realize he's lost his way. We've drifted apart a bit, but I hope he finds the strength he needs to build himself a new and better world. He deserves it.

Have another friend who lost his job and with it, the wind in his sails. He was certain that he was doing what he should be doing. In his misery, he realized he has a serious illness and this hiatus allowed him time to deal with it and get things under control. He has also found, with this personal battle, a renewed strength and vitality to begin again. HE is the architect I admire. The one who rises above the ashes to find a new and better opportunity. The phoenix!

Today, I hope you find a new building material. Start building something amazing out of yourself. The past lies far behind you. There's no reason for visiting it, wallowing in it, or allowing it to consume you. Become the architect of a new you!

Words

Behold, the power of words!

Just letters, tossed together, strung along with others to create a point. What you do with this miscellaneous hodge podge of characters is your choice.

Words can evoke passion, both positive and negative. They can stir us to riot or to break down in tears. They can humble us and even nearly cripple us. They can stop us in our tracks or cause us to joyfully leap toward the heavens. They can soothe us, sedate us, enrage us, lure us, hurt us. They can bring tremendous joys and overwhelming sadness. Words can lift us up or truly deny us anything.

Politicians use words to snare and promise us. Teachers use words to encourage and guide us. Spouses use words to captivate and comfort us. Mean people use words to harm and hurt us. What do you do with your words?

Words are truly just mere letters, tossed together; but they carry with them the weight of the world. Be careful how you use your words and make sure they are not wielded as weapons, but rather as steps to something better.

You CAN!

When you get to the end of your rope . . . tie a knot and swing!

So often, we try to control everything around us in the world. It really is kind of a futile activity. Sure, you can wake up early, shower, prep, and be out the door on time, but that doesn't mean that traffic isn't going to throw you a curve ball. You simply cannot control life.

Life happens. Good, bad, or indifferent, it just occurs. What you DO have control over is your reaction to life. When traffic is snarled, try a new route. You might find your new favorite store or restaurant on the way. One of my favorite sayings is, "When nothing is going right, turn left."

You CAN create a positive environment. You CAN delete and remove negative influences. You CAN sustain a happy life, no matter what the outside world seems to throw at you. You either, give it up in faith that God will guide you where you need to be, or . . . if you're not so very devout . . . you search for silver linings and golden opportunities. Apparently, we started a mantra a few years ago that has struck a chord and taken on a life of its own when we shared our daily choice philosophy of:  "You can be happy, or you can be crappy."

Bad hair day? Find a new, favorite stylist. Finances askew? Drop cable and take up evening strolls and family board game night. Health issues? Seek a second opinion, or take a good, long look at diet and wellness. Mean people? Point your shoes in another direction. There's so much you CAN do to alter what happens to you.

Today, I hope life IS treating you well. Should you run into a little resistance, take a detour. Travel safe and travel happy!

Veteran's Day

Veterans Day is fast approaching. I have been blessed to be included on not one, but TWO, Veterans Day events. I am honored and humbled to do so.

President Wilson said, "To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations…"

It was originally Armistice Day and originally celebrated only Veterans of WWI. It has since been changed to Veterans Day and honors all veterans. It is a wonderful day to seek out and thank those folks who have given and/or lost so much in the pursuit of your freedoms. We are a powerful nation; but only as powerful as we give our soldiers credit for. They deserve it all!

I am also blessed to have had many veterans in my family: Grandpa, Calvin, Alfred, Alfonso, Salvatore, Billy, Jimmy, Skip, and Nick; in addition to some uncles, and folks, like Lenny, who have become family, too. You stepped up to a task that was not required. You did it out of patriotism and love of country. God bless you!

And God bless our troops!
Local folks . . . Palm Harbor Middle School does an absolutely incredible ceremony on November 11th at 9:45 am and 10:45 am. Parking is at a premium, but I would highly recommend attending. It is truly a beautiful service.
Regional folks . . . Applebee's provides free meals to Veterans on Veterans Day. What a fabulous way to acknowledge such incredible people. Thanks, Applebee's, for honoring our Vets!

Be sure to thank a Veterans on Veterans Day . . . and always!

Thank You!

I know the masses are hurting and angry and hungry and unemployed. I know a lot of folks are unhappy and lost and miserable. I believe there are still things to be thankful for.

I am thankful I woke up this morning! I am grateful for another day to do something to make today and the world just a little bit better. I am thankful I saw my son sneak out the door on his way to college. It made my heart happy. I am thrilled that I'm getting a massage today. I am thankful for the folks I know, the friends I have, the family that still communicates with me, the pseudo-family that truly and sincerely cares about me, the memories I hold, the health I have, whatever wealth ~ monetary, emotional, or supportive ~ I can share, my persistence, determination, and tenacity, and more.

I am thankful for halloween pictures of little samurai's, pillow-stealing posts, impending visits, and rooftop ballerinas. These things make me smile. I am thankful for laughter and hugs and friendships.

I am thankful for my children . . . two of the most amazing people I know. They are smart, gorgeous, giving, persistent, and blessed. I am thankful for my husband, who knows everything there is to know about me . . . and loves me anyway. I am thankful for my gray-haired pooch, who makes every day interesting and believes he runs the house.

I am thankful for a tiny corner in my home which harbors the memories of those who have left his world too soon: Poppa, Grandpa, Sal, Pop, Alfred, Irma, Charlie, Julia, and Momma. I miss you, but know you watch over me and I am thankful for that!

I am thankful for you allowing me to offer my opines and for you actually reading them. I thank you for your feedback and your fellowship. There are many things in my life that are not good, well, or healthy . . . but I choose to focus on being thankful for the many abundant riches that envelope me each day!

Thank You!