Thankful for 2012

I am thankful, today, for the past 364 days.

Some were not very exciting. Some were a little more than I could handle. Some were filled with love and laughter. Some were filled with tears and questions. Some were tinged with anger. Some required ranting. Some were sheer silliness. Some were full of nothing but complete and utter dumbfoundedness.

All were filled with family. All were filled with prayer. All were met with a positive attitude.

Some of my friends had really rough years. Some of my friends trounced around without a care in the world. Some people made me terribly unhappy with slanted, skewed, and forced opines. Some folks shared what made them joyous.

All were filled with family. All were filled with prayer. All were met with a positive attitude.

Some days brought death and sadness. Some days brought birth and rejoicing. Some days brought more questions than answers (most in fact!). Some days did not have enough hours (most in fact!). Some days dragged on forever.

All were filled with family. All were filled with prayer. All were met with a positive attitude.

The year is what you make it. You can let it wash over you and YOU become the filter. Leave the joy and the laughter and the celebrations and the rejoicing and the love. Let the anger, hatred, ranting, troubles, pains, hurt, and questions spiral down the drain of life while making you stronger.

I do hope that your 2012 was not as terrible as you may recall. Sometimes we focus far too long on the things that hurt us most. Choose, instead, to focus on the positive!

As we ring in 2013, I pray that you are met with joy and laughter, celebrations and rejoicing, and health and love. Be well. Be safe. Be happy!

Fill your days with family. Fill your days with prayer. Fill your days with a positive attitude.

Happy New Year!

Full steam ahead . . .

Today, I give thanks for a year well spent!

There were parts that were not happy. There were parts that were hurtful and depressing and full of tears. There were also parts filled with joyous celebration and love and laughter.

Tomorrow is promised to no one. Live today for all it's worth. Give of yourself 100%. No matter what you're doing . . . have at it . . . full steam ahead.

I'm certain I've made mistakes. I'm sure I have bungled a few decisions. I've made missteps and bad choices. I've also done terrific things and accomplished wondrous tasks and changed course and altered my path.

C'est la vie!

I have a few goals for 2013. I have visions and aspirations. More than anything else, I pray for a family that stays together and connected. I pray for health and wellness. And the riches I pray for have nothing to do with money.

I hope that your 2013 is whatever you need it to be. Choose your path, follow it, but don't be afraid to alter your course. That's part of the fun and excitement of breathing!

Full steam ahead . . .

Thankful for my glasses . . .

Today I am thankful for what some call my 'rose-colored' glasses.

I have been exposed to some seriously nasty things. I have seen my share and then some of horrific tragedies . . . 9/11, Columbine, liars, Newtown, floods, cheaters, hurricanes, Susan Smith, storms, sick children, abuse in many forms, pain, neglect, death. I have felt EACH incident at the core of my being.

I have also seen birth, life, joy, celebration, happiness, dreams come true, health, and miracles.

I honestly think that most of the above is true for most individuals. It is what you do to process those things and move forward that create YOUR world.

Some folks may think I see the world through rose-colored glasses. I choose to believe I see what is good and right and blessed in the world. There will ALWAYS be evil. There will always be those who cheat, rob, steal, lie, kill, abuse, bully, and demean. You cannot avoid them. You simply move beyond them and love what is left.

I can recall spending nights in the hospital with my son while listening to parents wailing as their child leaves this world for the next. Those sounds will never leave me. They will haunt my eardrums for eternity. But I have also seen the miracles of healthy children who survive the unthinkable and go on to lead fabulously fulfilling lives. I choose to focus on those miracles while using that spark of pain to push me forward to make the world a little better. However I am able!

Today, I urge you to change your spectacles. Yes, the world is full of hurt. It is also full of the overcoming of it. Change your view point and the world is a whole new place.

Come and see what I see . . .

Gray Matters

Today, I am thankful for my brain.

It allows me creativity, incite, intelligence (although some question that), personality, thought, decisions, determination, and opinions. My little bucket o' gray matter is mine. It is what makes me different from every other person in the universe. It makes me special. It makes me unique. It gives me the flavor that some either love or hate.

Although I may not be technically trained in matters, I am schooled in life. I have come to learn that that is sometimes much more necessary to get through it than to know about imaginary numbers or memorizing historical dates. To realize the value of another person far outweighs any degree one can receive.

I hope that you enjoy your brain. It is your opportunity to share yourself with the world. It is your gift. In doing so, however, remember that I only have enough room in my head for my brain. Please don't try to shove yours in there with mine. Respect my space as I respect yours.

Have a brainy sort of Thursday. Make good choices and do good things!

Tick Tick Tick

I am continuing my thankfulness blogging until the end of the year. It just seems appropriate as we begin to reflect back on a very full year and forward in hopes of a beautiful 2013.

I am thankful today for time . . .

Christmas day was spectacular! I adore my role as mom and wife. I got to play both to the extreme yesterday. Normally hubby makes Christmas breakfast. Yesterday, I relieved him of his duties and made some apple cinnamon, coconut pancakes (in remembrance of our Jamaican anniversary trip). They were super delicious and the kids and even the dog ate 'em up!

Then it was time for stockings. The dog knows which one is his and he just loved his squeakey monkey. The kids had various treats, the obligatory Pez dispenser (which always makes us laugh), giant candy cane sticks (which the dog thought were good fetching tools), and scratch off tickets (to keep gamblin' grandma in our thoughts!).

Then present time. My babies got a majority of things they requested and I even got to spoil hubby a little. He so very much deserves it with all the hard work and time he puts into his job. The dog enjoyed his treats and helped to tear up wrapping paper and boxes. He's very good at that. I was blessed with angels and starfish and Giants gear and Bulls gear and lots of household treats. I was moved to tears several times with different items. All good tears though. I'm kind of a mush!

Then it was time to cook. I chased everyone into the living room and I began my beloved task of cooking Christmas turkey. I so enjoy making dinner for my family and listening to them play games and watching them rummage through all of their gifts and treats. It just makes a mother's heart soar.

Dinner was scrumptious and then it was game time. They had already exhausted Othello and Mancala so it was time for some family Apples to Apples. It was a time of many laughs and much sarcasm. (You expected something else from this family?) Wonderful! Wonderful! Wonderful!

Time to walk the dog and then time for a family movie! We, for the first time, actually went to the theater on Christmas day. Since the boy is such a film buff, we caught the newest Tarantino film. It surely did not disappoint. It was vintage Tarantino! We quoted it all the way back to Deanna's apartment and said a sad goodbye to a beautiful day.

Time is fleeting. Make it mean something. Fill those ticks with memories and love and family and friends. My time, yesterday, was full! I wish you the same every day!

Full of Thanks

Merry Christmas! What a glorious, wonderful day!

With adult children, the early mornings are a thing of the past, but not for me! I am always awake early and that is fine. It is this quiet, peaceful time that I am blessed to reflect and enjoy the happenings of a yesterday, a year, and a life full of things to be thankful for!

The top ten reasons to be thankful this morning:

I am awake and enjoying Christmas morning! Thankful item #1.
My two beautiful children are sleeping just feet away. Thankful item #2.
My absolutely amazing husband is sleeping just feet away in the other direction. Thankful item #3.
My fuzzy old grey-haired pooch is balled up just behind me. Thankful item #4.
I got texts from most of my brothers yesterday and even a few of my beloved nieces and nephews. Thankful item #5.
I am certain that my mom, my favorite Christmas angel, is watching over me today and always. Thankful item #6.
I am blessed to have spent yesterday with family and friends and a wee little precious infant. Thankful item #7.
I am blessed to have some of the most spectacular friends in all of the world. Thankful item #8.
I will soon begin the delightful task of making apple/cinnamon/coconut pancakes. Thankful item #9.
Today is a day to celebrate Jesus Christ - and all the many blessings He showers down upon us. Thankful item #10.

I pray that today is a day full of blessings for you and yours. If you are not near family . . . go make one, call them, skype them, whatever makes you less alone. You are never alone with the joy of God in your heart!

Be richly blessed and have a very Merry Christmas everyone!

Traditional Thanks!

I am thankful today for traditions! Those timeless wonders that pass from generation to generation or the loving silliness that starts and doesn't end! It's all good and it's all magical!

When I was younger, Christmas Eve was a time for the children to go to bed while the parents went to midnight mass. We'd trudge our way upstairs knowing that once that living room door was shut, there was no going back.

We'd wake up super early on Christmas day and the excitement was palpable! Only issue was that the house rule was you could not open that living room door until everyone in the house was awake. That really didn't take too long with seven kids! Still, the only trace of Christmas was the stocking on that dadgum living room door. Family breakfast was a must prior to going into the living room. We were allowed to open our stockings, but until breakfast was done . . . the door remained closed. What a thrill every year when we were finally able to plow our way in there to see what Santa had left!

I remember one year when our grandmother gave us all some sort of fabric. The first person thought it was a towel and it was tossed aside like new socks. The second person said, "No, I think it is a table cloth," and laid it out on the coffee table. By the third person, we were laughing hysterically as each of us had to come up with a different use. There were turbins, capes, and all sorts of other silliness. Ahhhhh, I remember it well!

Now . . . with a family all my own . . . even though the kids are 19 and 21, they will be home tonight and Victor will sit with them on the couch and read The Night Before Christmas. They will then be forced to go to bed so Santa can visit. In the morning, maybe even a little more cruel than my upbringing as we have no living room door, they must wait until everyone is awake and family breakfast is consumed before touching any presents under the tree. Prior to breakfast, they can open the goodies in their stockings . . . almost always to include a Pez dispenser. Not sure when that started, or why, but I think they'd be lost without it!

After breakfast, we head into the living room and we take turns opening gifts ~ slowly and appreciatively! It is a day full of faith and festivities. I adore it! Just ask any of my 150+ Santas. They celebrate with me every year!

Today . . . share with me YOUR traditions and I hope they buoy your spirits and your holidays. Cherish them.

Be safe. Be well. Have a blessed Christmas Eve. Enjoy it all!

Thanks for the riches!

God grant you the light in Christmas, which is faith

God grant you the warmth of Christmas, which is love

God grant you the belief in Christmas, which is truth

God grant you the all of Christmas, which is Christ!


I am thankful for all that God blesses me with on a daily basis. I humbly accept these gifts and offer them on to others. We must begin to share 'our' wealth, not the wealth of this world, for things to improve and change.

Have a blessed weekend and be thankful for all that you possess! You are wealthy beyond your understanding!

Thankful for My Angel

As I was busily trying to accomplish all of my tasks on yesterday's to-do list, I found myself massively missing my mom. Oh how I wish she were here for Christmas. How I wish I could sing a carol with her, play a duet on the piano with her, go shopping with her, play scrabble or boggle with her, or just simply sit beside her and enjoy her wonderful company again.

I ran around in circles, like I always do. I had to pick up a charity check for the hospital. I came home to find a wonderful friend in the driveway with more toys to mash in my truck to take to the hospital. I called my daughter to make sure she was going to attend the hospital holiday function with me. She confirmed and asked if her beau could also come. The more the merrier, and I got changed to head to St. Pete. I listened and hummed and sang along to the Christmas songs - sometimes melody and sometimes harmony. I got to my daughter's apartment and out came Chris Kringle. Her beau is growing a little beard and with longer hair, his blonde mop has turned a strawberry tinted color and he looks just like Chris Kringle on the BurgerMeister Meisterberger version. We went to the event and saw a few friends, went upstairs and visited with our absolute favorite media folks, and then went to the hospital to unload an entire giant bin (six feet tall by three to four feet wide) of toys for kids at All Children's Hospital. We visited some parts of the hospital and then I took my daughter and Chris . . . um, er, I mean Nick home. Then I started my forty minute trek home.

As I was driving, buoyed by the events of the afternoon and the good that we had done, it dawned on me ~ because I'm just a little thick-headed ~ that my Christmas wish was right in front of me the whole day.

A $300 donation check, a truckload of gifts for sick kids and their families, friends and family, Christmas carols, and nothing but good stuff going on. Of course my mom is here!

What other Angel could summon up all those wonderful things to put in my day? What other Angel would watch over me and have me occasionally take the harmony part? What other Angel guides me along a path that is adorned with the most abundant blessings of great friends and incredible family and wonderful people and events? The Angel who has ALWAYS watched over me!

Mom

Love you. Miss you. Thanks for being with me.

Thankful for Generosity

I write almost daily about the positive effects of what your good deeds have in the world. I urge you constantly to pay your blessings forward. I ask you to think about those less fortunate and to do what you are able to do to assist them. No deed is too small. No effort is too trivial.

Last night, I was humbled beyond words to be the recipient of all those things.

I was invited to a holiday party hosted by the North Pinellas Regional Chamber of Commerce at Basque Restaurant on US 19 in Clearwater. The venue was beautiful, the food was absolutely scrumptious, the folks were a wonderful bunch. The part that truly tugged the old heart strings was that the only entry fee to the party, was a toy donation for the children of All Children's Hospital.

Jane and Barbara were my cohorts. Hubby came, even though he was not feeling well, and I spent the evening with old friends and making new friends. And the toy pile grew.

I had to speak (NOT my favorite thing to do) about what we, as the All Children's Hospital Guild North Pinellas Branch, do for the hospital. I spoke of my experience there with my own children. It brings tears to my eyes to recall the years we spent back and forth to this amazing facility. And the toy pile grew.

There were raffles and auctions and a 50/50 and decadently delectable desserts and more friends to meet. And the toy pile grew.

At the end of the evening, the hospital was blessed with my Pathfinder stuffed to the gills with toys for children at the hospital. The Guild Branch also received a little over $400 in auction funds. There are more toys to pick up today from a poor soul who was caught at work at couldn't make it last night.

I am in awe of the generosity of every day folks . . . the angels I encountered last night. I heard several stories of families who had been positively effected by All Children's Hospital. It was an incredibly inspiring evening and having been on the receiving end of the pay-it-forward system, I will be touting its benefits all the more.

Thank you SO much to all of you, for your kindness, your generosity, your support, and your friendship. You are a blessing!

Thank You!

Thankful that the caged bird sings

Today . . . I am thankful that the caged bird sings.

This may mean many things to many people. To mean, it brings me directly to a poem I wrote when my most amazing mother passed away. A set of lines from that tribute states:

She encouraged each of us to pursue our wildest dreams,
Never doubted our abilities, instead assisted in our schemes

I grew up in a house where using our imagination was occasionally our only avenue of entertainment. We did not have a lot of money and so we found alternate ways to have fun which included actually playing outside (what?), creating games, putting on plays and skits, going on constant adventures in the woods or across the tracks or by the river, playing music, and letting our fantasies run free.

As a result, many in my family are amazingly creative. Most of my brothers are carpenters/builders. That alone is a creative-man's field. We are poets, writers, musicians, idea people. We are not bound by things that are 'probable'. Rather, we exceed those boundaries by sheer and simple thought.

If one does not exercise their body, the body becomes flabby, shapeless, and ill. If one does not exercise their imagination . . . the outcome is the same.

Although I was not able to offer my children the incessant opportunities in music that I would have liked, I allowed them to wander wherever they chose in their creative realms. I am in awe of what a little freedom and possibility can produce. They amaze me . . . continuously!

The bird sings not because it is free to do so . . . it sings because it loves its song. No matter how you try to harness something, its real passions and productivity will come through in the end.

I am thankful that the caged bird sings. It's a beautiful song that the world would be robbed of if the captor got his way.

Sing!

Thankful for Ch-Angels

Today, I am thankful for the Ch-Angels in this world!

I have written about the Ch-Angels in my life. Those folks who have made major impacts upon my psyche and moral code and basic outlook on life. Those folks who have taught me, guided me, sustained me, supported me, and loved me . . . to the moon and back . . . and made a world of difference.

Today, however, I write of the worldly Ch-Angels! The heroes of the every day.

The people who teach. The people who heal. The people who guard. The people who keep us safe. The military. The first responders. Those charged with herding the sheep to a much better grazing land!

They are here, walking among us, wings unfurled each day doing nothing more than the task they have chosen as a daily chore. They take of their own time, finances, efforts, and emotional welfare to nurture and protect us. They seek no retribution, no accolades, no awards, no fame. They exist to make the world a better place and they do an incredible job!

Sprinkled into those daily miracle makers are the make-a-choice Ch-Angels. These are the folks who rise to the occasion and become much more than they ever dreamed possible. These are the heroes that show up at accident scenes and lift cars to retrieve passengers, dive into icy waters to fetch the fallen, gather the children who flee from unfathomable horror, buy presents for children they will never know or see, those who go beyond their own realm ~ without thought or reason ~ to do the right thing for others.

We all have that Ch-Angel gene within us. Some just ooze with it. Some must have it coaxed out of them. Some are thrust into situations where it simply is their reaction. However it appears . . . I am thankful for it!

Thank you Ch-Angels! You make this world worth living in!

Thankful for blessings

Yesterday, I had the distinct pleasure of playing elf!

It began in the morning. I took out all the goodies I had made over the past week and began to make platters for folks. Chocolate presents, trees, bulbs, snowmen, snowflakes and more, rocky road and chocolate/peppermint fudge, chocolate-dipped rum balls, tiger cookies, snickerdoodles, peanut butter cookies, and chocolate/hazelnut/peanut butter pinwheel cookies.

With platters made, and a few presents wrapped, I started off in my sleigh for my elfin ways. My first stop was an incredibly close friend's house who, through no fault of her own, is tough to meet up with. We stay in touch, and even though she lives just a few short miles away, getting together is difficult due to our conflicting schedules. Yesterday's visit was perfection! Like we were never apart. Conversation just picked right up, information shared, hugs hugged and a beautiful little visit was had. She truly is an angel here on earth for me. She always has been . . . always will be.

Off to the mall for a goody delivery at work. I was also greeted with a tremendous amount of generosity with a tiny fundraiser I am having. Such wonderful blessings! Icing on the cake was the assistance of one fabulous sales associate who offered me her discount so my $43 holiday shirt cost me a whopping $10 and change! BONUS!

From there, I came home with all kinds of boundless energy and was able to assist hubby with our garage project. It took me several sweaty, head-banging hours but I made a huge dent so he could rest and try to get over a nasty cold. My endeavors paid off huge!

My third delivery was to a young man who used to live across the street. He and his girlfriend have an incredibly beautiful baby girl! I delivered a little treat platter to them and a gift to their princess. And then . . . the best gift of all . . . I stole that baby from grandma and got to hold her for a long while. Such a joy! The most precious of all gifts . . . the innocence of a tiny life . . . in my arms! Delicious!

I cannot afford presents for all the folks I'd like to buy for. Even if I could, that's not the point. I think the gift of my time and energies and care and love shoved into every cookie and morsel I make speaks volumes about my love for others.

We all know how to give the gift of a present, but it is more important to share the gifts that you were born with.

And in return . . . the hand of God reaches down and blesses you!

Ch-Angels Galore

We don't know names, nor exact ages, nor ethnicities, nor sexes and it doesn't matter.
Yesterday saw a mass-entrance of Ch-Angels into the Kingdom of Heaven!

I will not speak to gun control, or medical services, or social agendas -  that kind of makes my stomach turn. I don't understand how folks can go there after such a calamitous event. Our focus should be entirely upon those babies, the staff, their families, and how to help this community cope with such a horrific and hateful tragedy.

I believe God himself sat at the Pearly Gates and welcomed those tiny, innocent people into His Home. His open arms draped in the warmest of fabrics offering a safe haven to what they had just gone through. I believe their acceptance was immediate, warm, and beaming. Those of us left here, have only time and tears to try to comprehend the incomprehendable.

We must, if nothing else, not focus our attention on control, or medications, or systems; but rather on love. Tomorrow is promised to no one. Where evil stalks, sadness remains. Don't let this monumental loss be turned into something it should not be. It is a loss. A tragic, senseless, terrifying loss. Unexplainable and indefinable! A moment that will be etched in the hearts of minds of millions of people.

Pray for those families who have suffered the unthinkable. Pray for the families of the staff. Pray for one another. Pray!

And if your comments do not reflect the real focus on this catastrophe, the children lost, then please keep your comments to yourself!

Today

Today is National Believe Day!

Oh boy! One of my favorites!

I believe!

I believe in treating people with respect. I believe in encouraging others. I believe in making a difference. I believe in paying it forward. I believe in caring and sharing. I believe in wishes and dreams. I believe in self respect and self reliance. I believe in stopping harmful cycles and creating a warm and cozy home. I believe in health and happiness. I believe that wealth does not always come in the form of paper bills and pocket change. I believe that some friends make the best family members. I believe that the children really are our future. I believe that life is precious. I believe that sometimes the cause is worth the fight - so fight like hell! I believe we have within us the strength, the fortitude, and the opportunity to make ourselves and our world better. I believe in love! I believe in forgiveness, not necessarily forgetting. I believe my spouse is my best friend and hope yours is too. I believe my mother hears me and watches over me every day! I believe my children are two of the most amazing people on this planet. I believe in honesty and sincerity. I believe that liars are sad people. I believe that miracles happen every day!

I believe God is an awesome God!

I believe I'll wish you a Merry Christmas and wish, for you also, the joy and peace that this season is meant to bring.

I am thankful for all the things I believe in.
I am thankful for you!

Tenaciously Thankful!

Today, I am thankful for tenacity!

I could, and might, write a book about all the mountains I've climbed. Chapters of hardships, hurdles, and haunting happenings that have infected portions of my life. I could write for days about broken hearts and tainted trusts. I could pour myself into pages of powerful paralytic periods. They all happened. They all hurt. They all were devastating.

But . . .

I am no longer there. A person could spend eternity looking back, forlornly at their past. In doing so, they miss the present and the opportunity to enhance their future. I cannot change my past. I cannot alter things that have already occurred.

I can, however, choose to learn lessons from those awful times. I can take the tattered remains of what happened and build a better tomorrow.

Tenacity is defined as:  holding or grasping firmly; retentive; stubborn or persistent; holding together firmly; tough or cohesive.

I am all those things. I hold on to the promise of better things, the general good in most folks, the notion that I can accomplish what I put my mind to; and the idea that I deserve all of those things!

Today, I hope you lay down your baggage from the past. Move ahead toward dreams and goals. The future is yours. Set a course and stick to it . . . with the tenaciousness that exists in each of us!

You can do it!

Touch A Life

I've written of sight and hearing and today . . . it's all about touch!

I feel bad for the germophobes. Those poor folks who cannot even shake a hand or give a hug in fear of what might occur. I, personally, would rather contract pneumonia than not have human contact!

Touch is so vital . . .

The softness of a newborn baby, the feel of warm sand beneath your feet, the enormity of a hug, the gentle caress of fresh air upon your face. To feel things is to experience life!

The warmth of a child in your arms, the bristly snuggling into hubby's furry chest, the security of a critter to pet, warm ocean waters, cool mountain streams, rough tree bark, prickly thick grass, the sun on your body, a good book in your hands, tickling the ivories, tackling a receiver, the safety of your hand in the hand of someone you trust.

Touch conveys so many things to so many people.

However you can today . . . touch a life!

The Sound of Silence

Ah, yes! That is one of my favorite sounds! The sound of nothing . . . simple, pure silence! It's a beautiful thing!

I also adore lapping waves, morning birds chirping, crackling fires, music of just about every sort, baby's cooing, and children's laughter.

I cherish the car alarm beeping so I know my son is home.

I love the song my phone plays telling me my daughter is calling.

I love the rhythmic sounds of my husband's breathing as he lays sleeping beside me.

I'm not so much a fan of the dadgum chickens that live across the street.

Enjoy the sounds around you. If you indulge for just a moment, you will find yourself relaxing and enjoying life and what thrives within it, just a little bit more!

Do You See What I See?

Today, I am thankful for sight!

I had the most distinct pleasure of a visit from my oldest brother, Cal, over the weekend. It was a short visit but just jam packed with all sorts of fun and laughter. We discussed, at one point, what we see in life.

We've both been through a lot. Heck, my whole family has. But every one of us has come to see life differently. We're not different than any other family . . . or people, in general, for that matter. Cal and I, though, choose to see the positive; the good; the opportunities; the open doors. We choose to leave the drama, the hurt, the ugliness out of our line of vision. It is there. We are wary of it. But we choose to side step it, much like horse poop at a dude ranch!

I see trees of green, red roses, too. I see 'em bloom, for me and for you.
I see skies of blue, clouds of white, bright blessed days, dark sacred nights.
The colors of a rainbow, so pretty in the sky. Are also on the faces of the people going by.
I see friends shaking hands, saying, "How do you do?" they're really saying, "I love you!"

I'll be seeing you in all the old familiar places . . .

The first time, ever I saw your face . . .

I keep my eyes wide open all the time . . .

Do you see what I see, way up in the sky little lamb?
Do you see what I see? A star, a star, dancing in the night with a tail a big as a kite.

What do you choose to see?

I have seen spectacular mountains, incredible animals, beautiful valleys, the colors of a glorious fall, dolphins at play in calm waters, open skies.

I have seen birth, growth, laughter, joy, brilliance, triumph, and the passing from this life into what lies beyond.

I have seen miracles!

Do you see what I see?

Fantasmagorical!

Today, I am thankful for days like yesterday!

I woke up WAY too early ~ about 2:45 am. I was a little excited about All Children's Hospital's 5th Annual Radiothon. I may have napped for another 30 to 40 minutes between then and when the alarm went off at 6 am, but then I hit the floor running!

I was fine at Radiothon until I listened to Oliver's story. Oliver is a friend of mine with OI (Osteogenesis Imperfecta) or Brittle Bone disease. He is three years old and has had numerous leg breaks and surgeries. He is also one of the cutest, sweetest, and most darling little boys you'd ever want to meet! Shortly after hearing his story, with a lump in my throat and tears welling, my buddy Ann delivered an email about a mom whose daughter has the same disease my son has. That was all it took. The tears were freely flowing. Thank goodness the phone rang and I could focus on the task at hand . . . except . . . As I thanked the caller and was hanging up, he asked if he could leave a message on his donation. I told him, "Of course you can!" He then said, "Tell Oliver to stay strong and keep up the fight." And I was over the edge. It was at that very moment that Stephanie grabbed me to go have Mike Alstott sign my Radiothon shirt for my son. Oh joy! I get to meet Mike Alstott looking like a slobbery mess. Mike happily and eagerly signed the shirt and we were chatting a little bit when Stephanie reappeared with a camera man for a photo opp. Super! The picture actually turned out rather nice! And in hugging my Ann Miller goodbye, after a rather emotionally draining shift, I just couldn't turn off the waterworks. There is just something so genuine and loving and caring about this woman. It's like she's the sister I never knew growing up. She's the best friend I SHOULD have met thirty years ago but am thrilled to have crossed paths with when I did. She oozes such compassion and love and friendship and comfort. She gets me. It was a truly magical morning!

Then off to visit my daughter for a brief moment. She wants to decorate her apartment but times are tough. So, mom brought Christmas for her. I did a little grocery shopping, got a pine-scented candle, and picked out a northern pine Christmas Tree to help make her home festive. She cried. I cried some more. It was very tiring . . . and very worth it! She decorated the tree with sand dollars she was given from her recently passed grandma/grandfather's house. It's beautiful . . . like her!

Then home to eat because I was starving! I run into my son who is just waking up at near noon! He VERY much loves his Radiothon treat! I am thrilled to offer him this little goody. He's a fantastic young man! No crying here - except in the retelling of the story of the morning!

And then . . . hubby is off! What a special bonus! We spent the rest of the day Christmas shopping and having dinner out on the town. There was laughter and hand holding and walking in quiet wonder looking at Christmas lights and store fronts. What a beautifully magnificent day.

I am thankful for days like yesterday. It was fantasmagorical!

Crocodile or not

Today, I am thankful for tears!

Tears come for all sorts of reasons.

The obvious reason like when you stub your toe in the middle of the night and whilst hopping around you fall over your dog. Yup . . . that'll do it!

The pain of loss - a loved one, a pet, a friend, a job, or your trust.

Misunderstandings - which are one of the worst, because this is completely avoidable!

Chick-flicks - these sometimes will even drag the old salt sacks from the manliest of men!

Hallmark commercials - tugging the old heartstrings all the time. (Or is that just me?)

And then . . . there are happy tears, too!

Jubilation - the proposal, big news, and births!

Pride - when, perhaps, your children exceed your expectations. I've cried many of those!

Admiration - in the realm of respecting veterans and things of that nature.

Love - when the power of a simple sentiment so overwhelms you, that you are moved to leak!

Tears are cleansing and empowering all at the same time. They do not show weakness or lack of character. Quite the opposite. They show strength in one's ability to emit emotion and the fortitude to truly be who you are!

My name is Lynette Carol Rider Marinello and I am a crier! There is no twelve-step program for recovery. I don't WANT to recover. I enjoy having a heart and emotion and a soul. I expose them freely. I cry over silly things and meaningful things.

I cry because I care!

The best medicine

I am thankful for laughter!

The great, big, guffawing belly laugh after a great joke, or video, or escapade.
The non-stop giggles after you've done something completely stupid and you just can't stop laughing at yourself.
The snort laugh because you simply cannot catch your breath.
The crying laugh from pure anxiety or pure euphoria.
The nervous laugh brought on by insecurities, but a great ice-breaker.
The cackle laugh . . . which really kind of frightens me.
And my absolutely favorite . . .
The laughter of babies and children!

It is just the purest form of innocence out there and if those cuddle-worthy chuckles don't create a happy place in your heart . . . you're in desperate need of therapy!

Today . . . I am thankful for laughter.
Get out there . . . chuckle, guffaw, snort, cry, cackle, giggle, or just enjoy the laughter of others.
It does a body good!

Hands

As I laid in bed this morning, I was hoping for a little inspiration for my daily blog. It was then that my hubby reached over, I thought he was sleeping, and grabbed my hand. With fingers intertwined, he said, "I like when you're here."

OK . . . so . . .

I am thankful for hands!

There are working hands . . . those that get dirty and grimy and calloused and gnarled. Those hands that know they've put in a hard day's work and have not been idle.

There are shaking hands . . . the good, sturdy, manly handshakes! Not those dead fish, girly soft handshakes. I'm talking about the ones that convey your word, your ability, and your service.

There are talented hands . . . those hands that work magic with a paint brush, a keyboard, an instrument, a camera, a blank canvas. The hands that create meaningful beauty to share with others.

There are emotional hands . . . the hands that are used to ooze the emotions of the heart. The writer's hands, the poet's hands, the screen writer's hands, the lyricist's hands.

There are caring hands . . . those hands that belong to those gifted angels we call nurses and doctors and caregivers. The hands that work the miracles of health and healing.

There are the loving hands . . . the hands of the parent. The hands that cradle the infant, coddle the toddler, encourage the child, guide the adolescent, support the young adult, and are a constant in the lives of their child.

There are the praying hands . . . the hands that have learned to let go of the steering wheel and leave it to a higher source. The hands that are strong enough to ask for help, to implore proper guidance, and a servant's humbleness.

There are helping hands . . . those hands that disregard their own wants and desires and do the right thing by others. They offer themselves without hesitation. They exist to provide for others.

And there are the holding hands . . . like this morning! The hands that convey the words that need not be spoken. The intertwining of fingers that symbolize the intertwining of so very much more.

I am thankful for all those hands!

Thankful for Dreams . . .

Yesterday's post was in regard to All Children's Hospital. Today, I am sharing my thanks for The Children's Dream Fund. The CDF is very much like Make-A-Wish only it is focused primarily on central Florida. They grant dreams to critically and terminally ill children. They have stolen my heart!

On Miles' very first hospital stay for an infusion, we were visited by a representative from the Children's Dream Fund. They had been directed to us through the hospital, I believe (another kudos to them!). The representative told Miles - she spoke to him (not me!) - that whatever his little heart could dream up, they would work as hard as they could to make it come true. They offered him examples of past dreams granted: new computers, shopping sprees, giant playsets, trips to anywhere, cruises, meeting celebrities, a new bike, anything!

So, Miles politely asked if he could think about it. She immediately smiled and told him, "Of course." I'll come see you again on your next hospital visit."

What you need to know is that Miles' particular disease kept him very immobile. Not out of choice, but it attacked his muscles leaving him very, very weak. When we had been getting steroid infusions at the outpatient center, he had very few options to keep himself entertained. There was a plethora of movies, but it was viewed by everyone, so the choice needed to be mutual. He could do homework. Ew! Or . . . he could read. He chose the latter.

When we again visited ACH, the representative came - as she promised. She asked Miles if he had come up with a dream and if it was HIS dream alone. He replied, "Yes!" I really had no idea what he had come up. She asked to know what he wanted and he said, quite matter-of-factly, "I would like my own library!" The Children's Dream Fund rep just absolutely beamed. This was a new one for her!

Just a few short weeks later, after Miles designed his bookshelf along with laminate colors and even getting to make a wishlist of books, we were blessed with a visit by the CDF fairy! He received a beautiful bookshelf, 5' tall and 8' long, built by Ruhl Entertprises, funded by The Palm Harbor Junior Women's Club and filled by Barnes and Noble. It was an extraordinary gift which allowed Miles to escape into whatever story he was reading and away from treatments, poking, prodding, and infusions. What a gift these Dream Fund folks are.

We are privileged to call them friends and we've been so touched we've given back to them on many occasions to pay-it-forward to help other sick children. Should you be looking for a charity or a way to really impact a life . . . go to www.childrensdreamfund.org and find out ways that you can make dreams come true.

We are thankful for The Children's Dream Fund! VERY MUCH SO!

Thankful? Quite!

About twelve years ago, my son was in the third grade. He was a very typical, crazy eight year old busy with school, friends, and after school activities. He liked taekwondo and basketball and swimming and football and budweiser commercials! For Christmas he received a basketball hoop for the driveway. We had to literally drag him inside for dinner. Day two . . . the shots were not very active and he seemed rather lethargic. Day three . . . we couldn't even get him to go outside. Day four . . . after laying on the floor to watch cartoons, he could not get back on his feet without pulling himself up on the coffee table. My 'Miles-a-minute' was miles from well.

Enter All Children's Hospital. After two months of misdiagnoses by our pediatrician, we were sent to All Children's Hospital. They knew immediately what was wrong with him and suggested a very aggressive treatment plan. He was diagnosed with dermatomyositis, an auto-immune disease where the body attacks its own muscles thinking them to be a virus. This is life-threatening and just a tad scary. All Children's Hospital to the rescue!

Treatment was frightening. Infusions. Shots. Poking. Prodding. And all of it FREQUENTLY! The hospital, however, made everything understandable to the entire family. They took great effort to ensure that all of us, including big sister, were included in treatment, decisions, and activities. We made life-long friends in that facility: Norma, Rosemary, Dr. Jones, Dr. Nickeson, Ann, Bill, Joel, Gary, Avril, Stephanie, Leslie, Michelle, DiDi, and many others. We would not have survived without them. And we continue to thrive because of the them.

Fast-forward nearly four years, Miles is much healthier. We planned a family cruise to celebrate. It was on that cruise that we notice Deanna, my daughter, was a tad bit crooked. Oy! Off the boat and back to All Children's Hospital. She was diagnosed with moderate, nearing ugly, scoliosis. This was a little scary as we all knew my niece had had two steel rods placed in her back to correct her scoliosis. Through All Children's guidance and tenacity, Deanna was spared surgery. She did have to wear a full-torso, hard plastic brace for nearly a year, but we were able to fend off excessive measures. No one would know, today, that she's crooked just by looking at her. She's absolutely stunning! And that is owed, in no small part, to All Children's Hospital.

I realize I'm a little gung ho about the facility. I'm certain that there are other fabulous children's hospitals out there, but . . . I can only speak to All Children's abilities to treat, not only the patient, but the entire family. We are better folks for having endured nearly seven years of interacting with them medically and we are exponentially blessed to continue to include them in our circle of friends!

I am MORE than thankful for All Children's Hospital. I hope you never need them, but know that if you end up there . . . you're in incredible hands! Thank you!

Thankful for Heroes

Today, I am thankful for heroes!

Yes, of course, I'm talking about Superman and Batman and the Lone Ranger and heroes like that. Those characters are who shapes our littlest of minds to want to do the right thing.

And yes, of course, I'm talking about Policemen and Firefighters and EMT's and folks like that. Those folks who probably watched a lot of Superman and Batman and the Lone Ranger as children. These folks give selflessly and continually and the good ones continue to do so, long after their shifts are over or they have hung up their badges, boots, and fancy rides.

However, the heroes that truly impact us, are the ones we meet each day!

My mom - who raised so many children, started successful businesses, helped so many, and loved to play while doing it all. My gymnastics coach as a youngen, who managed to deal with a myriad of teenage girls and their hormones and still created a very successful team. More than that, she helped to mold very successful people. My old trig teacher, who squeaked me through the final to graduate, but also became a friend and a confidant whom I treasured seeing every day and still communicate with. My English/Humanities teacher who played ball with my brother and my boyfriend and would let me leave class early when the boyfriend showed up outside the window. He let me experience a little freedom, but more importantly, he allowed me the freedom to grow as a writer. My 8th grade reading teacher whose class consisted of 'read a book, write a paper'. It was there that I fell in love with reading and even though we trashed your car, you still loved us and encouraged us to read, read, read!

How about those few sports stars that I've had the privilege of meeting who do such wonderful things for the community? Not because they are obligated, but because they are emotionally moved and driven to do so. Fund hospital wings. Fund dreams and wishes. Fund scholarships and the future hopes of high schoolers. Acknowledge good deeds and good samaritans.

Or how about those folks who rise above their obstacles. Handicaps and disabilities are just another bad hair day for them as they strive to achieve what any other person wants to achieve. There's no complaining. Only tenacity. Determination. They inspire and ignite those around them to simply be better people.

And my favorite heroes, of course, are my husband and my children. I am in awe of what they do, what they overcome, and what they dream. I am better because of them. I am driven by their persistence.

Today, find a hero, and thank them. The response will be priceless!

Critters

Since I can remember, I've always had some sort of pet. No . . . not my brothers . . . but usually a four-legged critter that can cuddle with you or play with you and share life's daily adventures.

There is something about a pet.

It may be the unconditional love. It may be the fact that they somehow know when you need the most attention. When you want to be lazy, and that pooch wants nothing but to play ball, they win and alleviate couch-potato-itis! The way the kitties will, for no apparent reason, just race around a room, up a chair, across a table, and then stop, on a dime, tail twitching . . . to see what happens next. Or perhaps when you're talking to a dog, like he's your best friend, and he cocks his head completely sideways as though baffled by how you've let this alleged problem bother you at all. How a horse will nudge you when you need a little nudging. Perhaps that bird that snuggles - as best a bird can snuggle - when you just need a little quiet reinforcement.

They want nothing in return except a little food, some petting, and a little love right back. They are truly a gift!

I've had big dogs, like Sir Dark Star (really, that was his name) a humongous Newfoundland who actually carried me by the ass-end of my snowsuit while playing a game of hide and seek with my brothers from my hiding spot to the front door. It's was his inherent nature to save me. Chaddam was a huge Saint Bernard. King was the brother to my grandmother's Kong ~ a pair of German Shepherd's who were just stunning. (We might have had Kong and she had King - can't remember!) Apparently, via pictures, we also had a collie. We also had Charlie, a stray we took in who stayed with us for eons and then kind of vanished one day. Charlie was a beagle mix. One of the smartest critters we ever owned.

And then, we wanted a cat . . . so someone chased down a wild cat and we domesticated it. I believe the first cat was Smokey. Well, Smokey begot us Klingon, Sylvester, and a slew of other cats. We had bunnies, chicks, birds, and we tried to collect frogs. (Ew!) Some evil weasel or something ate our bunnies, one of our lovely cats got to our chicks. Thank God we were only bird watching as the folks that left them for us neglected to tell us that the parrots knew how to not only open their own cages, but the cages of the other birds as well. THAT was fun. The whole frog thing . . . we caught as many as we could and put them in an old tub in the back yard. We covered the tub with an old screen door. We literally had hundreds if not a thousand frogs in there and then . . . we dumped the whole thing over to experience the mass exodus of hopping hilarity! We were kinda different back then. We also managed to kill a turtle. It was a very cool turtle. We all wanted to feed it . . . and apparently we did. Turtles, as it turns out, are not real smart. If people feed them, they just keep eating. I'm pretty sure we fed it to death.

Now . . . on my own . . . I've had the distinct pleasure of Floyd, a Scottish Terrier, and Maximus, a black lab. The joys of critter ownership is rivaled by exactly NOTHING! There is just something about a life depending on you, and you, literally depending back on it. It's a beautiful bond that adds so very much to your existence.

Today, I am thankful for the myriad of critters I have been blessed with.

A Little Gold

Andrew Gold, that is! The lyric writer of the song 'Thank You For Being A Friend'.

Today . . . family, hardships, and triumphs are done and it is time to acknowledge the glue, the cement of life . . . friends!

For various reasons, I've always reached out to others in search of solace and serenity. I adore my family, but could not live without my friends.

Since my earliest childhood memories, there have been those folks who have just been constants. Whether I saw them all the time, or just intermittently, it was as if we had never parted. There was and is a comfort and a companionship that just never diminishes regardless of time, tests, or tumult. These folks are true gifts of grace from God above.

Nancy and Jamie are some of my very first rocks. Always a welcome face and a happy heart on the school bus. Thank you! Sue, Tana, Harold, Billy, Donald, Dawn, Donna and Ricky - more family than friends! Gymnastics provided forever friends and support throughout many an adolescent abyss and beyond. Kate, Timi, Danny, Heather, Mark and Chris . . . through my late teens. And as I grow older, the list grows longer and more diversified . . . Debbie, Kitty, Kim, Marcy, Lenny, Ann, Norma, Rosemary, Ali, Alison, Donna, Analisa, Rhonda, Jeannie, Diane, Dianna, Tony, Dick, Tracy, Barbara, Avril, Joanne, Cynthia, Joel, Kim, Amie, Trevor, Nancy, Michelle, Wilma, Winnie, Sharon, Michelle, and a host of other people.

These are not just acquaintenances. These are the types of people that will actually stop what they're doing to help me. They would come if I needed them. They would assist if I asked them. They care, they comfort, they confide, and they are cherished beyond belief. They are the proverbial cherry on the hot fudge sundae of life.

Thank you for being a friend.
Travelled down the road and back again.
Your heart is true. you're a pal and a confidant!

Love you much!
I am beyond thankful for you!

Bountiful Blessings

Since yesterday was happy for hurdles, today I will be thankful for my bountiful blessings!

Whether it has changed since my childhood or not, I am thankful for the blessing of six brothers! There was never a shortage of someone to play with. Games of tag were endless! Bike riding was a constant tour-de-Mountain Road. There was always someone to cheer on at little league and someone to cheer me on at gymnastics. There was a constant entire row filled up at dance recitals - whether they wanted to be there or not. My childhood was a blur of constant and crazy activity. I loved it!

Although the extended family of aunt and uncles didn't work out too well so many years later, it sure made for fabulous holiday dinners. There was always laughter at the table and beyond. There are marvelous memories of The Dictionary Game and musical madness!

To have been blessed by incredible teachers, friends and coaches as a youngster, is a gift. To still be in touch with a few is just a joyous heavenly endowment! These folks offered solace from struggle, guidance, love of education, support, and friendship. I just cherish them to pieces - and am thankful for them.

I was heartbroken by boyfriend #1, but would never have realized my love of working out and weight training had that not occurred. Devastated by boyfriend #2 - both emotionally and financially - my forced second job introduced me to my husband! And, as much as I adore New York, I was granted the pleasure of living in Georgia and now Florida. Each has special qualities and I am privileged to have experienced them.

To have been blessed with two incredibly beautiful children is more than one could ask for. Even with their health struggles, the repercussions have been exponentially fabulous. The folks and friends of All Children's Hospital and The Children's Dream Fund are forever inked upon our hearts. They have been not only blessings, but angels here on earth. I could not have survived some of those early storms without them! More so, now that these two babies of mine have become real adults . . . gifted, gracious, philanthropic, loving, caring, generous, and genuine . . . it is simply icing on the cake!

Although I am still tormented by memories of my mom's final breath, I am honored and privileged to have been there to see her through to the other side. It was truly one of the hardest things I've ever done, but I was blessed to be bedside, holding her hand, and talking to her all night long. What an honor to have and a memory to own.

I could write for hours and hours about my blessings. They far outnumber my hurdles! I am blissful knowing my time here has had many more positives than negatives and that even those negatives brought about beautiful, wonderful things. I am thankful for my bountiful blessings!

Happy for Hurdles

Happy for Hurdles?

Yes . . . I am thankful for the troublesome times in my life. I recently had a discussion with a dear, old friend in reference to being appreciative of the less-than-perfect moments in your life. They truly make you cherish the wonderful blessings you are given.

Did I enjoy an uncle with improper intentions? Did I enjoy not one, but two, Amway business associates with less than business objectives? Did I enjoy a step-dad whose attention was not always fatherly? Did I enjoy having my heart not just broken, but obliterated, by my first boyfriend? Did I enjoy having my second boyfriend move me from New York to Georgia, and then leave me high and dry? Did I enjoy eating Vienna Finger cookies ONLY for three straight weeks - just to survive? Did I enjoy leaving Georgia and the friends I had made to move to Florida? Did I enjoy my best friend's boyfriend costing me my job? Did I enjoy taking in a poor and destitute youngen, only to have him fall to the levels of the slime he was sleeping with and try to get me into legal trouble? Did I enjoy a good friend spreading rumors about me because she's so very insecure about herself? Did I enjoy my son suffering from a life-threatening disease? Did I enjoy my baby girl donning a hard plastic brace every day for a year? Did I enjoy being bashed and beaten for bringing to light a PTA member who was stealing from the kids? Did I enjoy losing a great niece at just four months old? Did I enjoy watching my mother take her last and final breath?

The answer to that and a myriad of other tragedies is a resounding "NO!" I enjoyed none of it . . . but I am better for ALL of it!

I am strong. I am a fighter. I stand firm. I am determined. I am focused. I am pliable. I am cautiously trusting. I am content with what I have. I love with every ounce of my being. I am protective. I am smart. I am not fearless, but will face whatever comes my way. I am happy.

I am me!

I choose to relegate those troubles to my past; to a learning curve that has made me a much better person than I might have been otherwise.

I am thankful for my hurdles!

MY family

I wrote of being thankful for my family growing up. Now, I will share with you my thanks for my family growing old!

My brothers, who you read about on Saturday, helped to shape who I am. I am NOT a very dainty person. Six brothers will do that to a girl. Don't get me wrong, I clean up pretty well, but I can challenge you men-folk in nearly any sport and am proud of it.

The brothers, along with Momma, taught me to never play easy. It's 100% or nothing! My mother taught me to play boggle and scrabble. She whooped my butt for many years, til I began to get better and better. I won an intermittent game or two and then it was me who was whipping butt. Did I feel badly? Nope! She wouldn't let me. She always said, you always play to win . . . or why play? But don't you ever gloat or lose sight of good sportsmanship. This is something I continue to strive at even to this day!

Now I could slather you with stories of the birth of my children, but everyone has a 'story' about the birth of their children. We all believe our kids are special . . . and they are! Mine have offered me courage, strength, tenacity, and determination. Did I really want those things? Probably not, but it was the hand I was dealt. How I handled those tumultuous times spoke volumes to my children and shaped the people that they have become. Any issues that we faced . . . we faced them 100%, expecting to be victorious. And now, my cup runneth over, as I watch them face their challenges exactly the same. It is a beautiful gift to create human beings. It is a blessing for them to turn into beautiful people! I have been truly blessed. I am thankful for them.

My husband, God bless him, has endured much! He is a gift of unbelievable magnitude. He loves me, protects me, plays with me, challenges me, trusts me, pushes me, and honors me. We have shared tears and hardships and hurdles. We have moved beyond them all, mostly with sarcasm and laughter. It's a beautiful thing. I adore him and am thankful for him.

Lots of folks are married and have children. Sometimes we get too caught up in the daily grind to really see what's in front of us. These treasures we can spouses and children. We take them, too often, for granted and neglect to share our hearts openly, tangibly, and frequently. Life runs us in haphazard directions and we lose sight of the enormity of a hug, the intensity of an 'I love you,' or the impact of a simple conversation.

Take time, today, to truly be thankful for your family.

Family

Today, I am thankful for family . . . and believe me . . . there's plenty!

Years ago, when I was a youngen, there was always an abundance of family. My mom was one of eight children. She and my grandmother were actually having babies at the same time. My youngest uncle is younger than my oldest brother. Weird, eh?

Holidays were always full houses . . . literally! But here's a secret . . . some of the best 'family' are those that are NOT related!

Of those seven aunts and uncles of mine; I stay in touch with exactly NONE of them. For whatever reasons, some of them won't even tell what I did to make them angry, they don't speak to me. There are a couple who, out of courtesy, send the obligatory birthday card or Christmas card. There is the token 'Switzerland' uncle who kind of just stays under the radar and when I saw him at my mother's funeral he hugged me and wouldn't let go. That was kind of nice. Sure wish he was closer. I have an aunt and an uncle who live relatively close to me, but again . . . life took us in different directions. I wish them all happiness. Too bad those laughter-filled days are only memories.

Brothers . . . hmmm. I have six of those. I am in fairly regular contact with exactly HALF of them. One is very busy with his family in his own little section of the world. If I were to call him, we could talk for hours and we are good . . . he's just busy! One has many issues. He thinks that me calling and checking in on him is some sort of violation of his privacy. So, I'll wait til he wants to connect with me . . . but I miss him more than he'll ever understand. The last one has 'written me off.' I would guess that's his choice, but in retrospect he did that a long, long time ago and I just never took the hint. Now . . . they are all in my prayers every night. They are in my thoughts every day. I love them and I miss them. After that, what they choose to do is their business.

But the 'family' I am referring to are those folks who have no relation to me, other than pure and simple love. The Macias/Kluck family, the Redfields, the Paris/Dousharm family, the Reitanos, the Priest family. The many folks who took refuge in our home and either lived or stayed there for extended periods. My pseudo brothers: Danny, Bill, Todd, Paul. The sisters that I never had: Kate, Nancy, Amie, Debbie, and others. The faux uncles my children grew up with: Lenny, Sean, and Dave. The countless friends who have helped to guide me and support me and steady me. THESE folks truly are unconditional people who are grudgeless and judgement-free. They exist in my life by choice and I adore them for that . . . and so much more.

I am thankful, today, for family that is more familial than some relatives will ever be.

Whew!

Had another blog in my head for today . . . but

Yesterday (I think it was yesterday), I woke up at 6 am. Not sure why, but when the old gray matter starts churning, there's just no going back to sleep. Started Thanksgiving dinner at 11 am and we at around 2-ish. I tried to nap but that didn't happen.

So . . . I tried several desserts. Stuffed once again, I tried to close my eyes. Nothing!

So, although I was able to rest my eyes for a little while, devoid of sleep, I tried to rouse myself with a shower before heading to work at 11:30 pm last night for the big Black Friday shift til 9:30 am this morning.

I don't understand why folks find it necessary to be out shopping at midnight, but . . . whatever floats your boat. It was insanely busy from midnight til 2 am and then steadily busy til nearly 10 am. I was able to break away for a bagel and a half cup of coffee, but not much more than that. Folks were not quite as messy and careless as last year, but I was busy nonetheless.

And now . . . after sleep-driving home . . . I am writing my blog for the day before catching a few elusive zzzzzzzzzz's!

I am thankful for persistence, determination, and tenacity. Without those traits, I would have long ago been sleeping under a sales rack in the sweater area where it's a little cozier! I enjoy a challenge and I thrive on pressure. I got a little of both last night. Enough to last me for another year! I am thankful to be home. I am thankful to be in comfy clothes, on my comfy couch, and waiting for the sandman to come and steal me away!

Have a good one folks! I am thankful for you.

Thanksgiving Thanks

Happy Thanksgiving!

Today is a wonderful day of giving thanks, of family, friends, faith, food, and football! Today is a day filled with memories and mayhem . . . all good!

I remember Thanksgivings where not a tree on the property lacked a dog tied to it. Too many cars for the driveway . . . or yard . . . so we just took over Mountain Road or Stone Ridge. I remember tons of people at our house or at my grandmother's house. It was wonderful. Although my Thanksgiving this year will be much smaller than those, it will envelope my favorite people . . . my husband and my children and those important to them. And I will be cooking . . . another one of my favorite things!

As I begin my 'Thankful' series, I first give all the glory to God. He has allowed me to survive life as it's been tossed at me and to wake up for this fabulous day before me. I thank Him for the opportunities I've been given and the blessings I've been graced with.

Today, though, thanks goes out to my mom! The maker of me! The shaper of who I am. The teacher of my ethics, my morals, my behavior, my heart. She gave of herself constantly, and without condition ~ a trait I am constantly trying to emulate. She lived her life to provide for her children and gave her children everything she was made of. She was a tireless, gracious, wonderful person who did not thrive on being our friend . . . but instead was our parent. She built boundaries and expectations and when we strayed . . . we were literally sprayed by the kitchen sink sprayer! She became our friend when we were adults and she was the best friend ever. She listened, consoled, comforted, ranted, and cheered us on. She schemed with us, dreamed with us, and did whatever she could to open every door available to us.

I don't really ever remember her being sad. She maintained a positive attitude about anything and everything. She surely was irate at times and that is where we learned, "If momma ain't happy, ain't NOBODY happy!" You just learned to stay out of her line of vision . . . and throwing! She was determined, dedicated, driven, and divine! She found a way to make things work and if you made her mad . . . you better watch your arse. She was extraordinarily sweet . . . until it was time to NOT be sweet (another favorite teaching of hers).

She was just an amazing woman, with much to offer, taken WAY too soon. I am thankful that I grew up with her, that I was blessed with her as a mom, that I was able to play with her so often, that I was graced with the opportunity to hold her hand while she passed on to better days, and I am thankful that she will always sit at my Thanksgiving table . . . and every chair next to me. Miss you mom!

Be thankful for who you have with you today. I am thankful for you!

Harmony

Tomorrow will begin my 'thanking' process, so . . . today . . .

"How wonderful it is, how pleasant when brothers live together in harmony!"
              Psalm 133:1 

On many levels - truth!

Enjoy your food; your family; your friends; your faith . . . your fusion to it all.

TPIF!

I have loved to see folks posting daily of all the things that they are thankful for. It is a humbling experience should you truly take the time to search for things that really mean a lot to you. It helps you to put life and your blessings into perspective!

I, too, will begin on Thursday until Christmas a month-long snippet of things that I am thankful for. I hope that you all continue, after this week, to realize all the good and gracious events, gifts, and people in your lives. I am truly thankful for many, many things. I don't think this will be too difficult a task.

My mission for you is to possibly parlait this Thanksgiving feeling into the future. We all enjoy those random acts of kindness, so this year I'm going to challenge you to enjoy TPIF. No, it's not a typo for the standard TGIF. This one is much more fun and a tad bit of a workout.

For those of you who have spent the last thirty days being Thankful for various reasons, now . . . go Pay It Forward.   TPIF!

For every gift you've been thankful for, show a kindness toward another person.

Maybe, just maybe, the holiday season will be just a little bit less hectic without need for a helmet and shoulder pads while shopping. There might be more singing and joy in the most joyous of holidays. A little more elf on your shelf. A bit more fest in your festivities!

It's worth a shot! TPIF!

"Dee and Minees"

Oh, the undeniable joys of children!

If you had asked me, during potty training and the 'no' stages if I thoroughly enjoyed my children, I'm certain my answer might have been a little different. We must push through those phases, and through the teenage years (even though I had it pretty easy with my kids), to get to . . . now! I learned some great tricks for dealing with ornery kids from my mom. She was the master. For years, my children thought there were cameras all through the house that caught bad behavior on film. The old, "The one who took the item in question is surely going to start getting little red dots on their hands from all those germs" worked like a charm every time just waiting to see who started staring at their hands.

But now . . . hands down and in truly bias fashion . . . I've got some truly extraordinary children. Sadly for them, they grew up too quickly - without choice. But, faced with obstacles most will never see in their lifetimes, my kids stood tall, and brave, and mostly fearless. They are not afraid to shed a tear, but they are much more likely to fight, fight, fight. They are determined, dependable, dignified, delightfully devoted to life, generosity, and heart. They are each very different from the other but are uncompromising in their dedication to philanthropy and frivolity. They speak their minds and yet, find the uncommon grace to do it eloquently and without belittlement.

This Thursday, I get to have them both at my table again and I will be MORE than thankful. I will rejoice in the quiet time, the laughter, and the togetherness. It is truly what makes my heart happiest. I wish that those of you who have not yet had the pleasure of meeting and befriending my children could do so. Your world would improve exponentially!

I hope that your week is filled with family and faith; food and flavor - of many varieties, and unfettered fun and fellowship.

I am thankful for you!

Nuff said!

No quotes.
No paraphrasing.
No lyrics.

Today, I will simply offer to you my self.

I talked with someone who was a little sad because there would be no commercial Christmas at his house. His family is not destitute. They are simply paying off bills and will focus on the more spiritual side of the holiday. Not a bad idea.

Still, in attempting to console him, I taught myself a lesson.
I said to him, "Go volunteer. Feed the homeless. Help organize and/or wrap presents at a hospital. Bake treats and bring them to veterans or an assisted living facility."
And then . . . the words just popped out . . .
I said to him, "the best present you could ever get or give is your self."

Nuff said!

Gifts!

I happened upon a post yesterday where someone seemed quite angry at God for 'not answering prayers'.

First, I felt badly for the person because, really, God rarely answers our prayers exactly how we're asking for them. He brings us to our needs via his path and on his time. Sometimes, the answers are not what we want, but they are ALWAYS what we need.

Second, two quick quotes that may make a difference to a person stuck at tangible-only results:
The tragedy in life doesn't lie in not reaching your goals. The tragedy lies in having no goal to reach. (B. Mays).
Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts. (W. Churchill)

These quotes may not apply directly to the aforementioned poster, but rather to all of us. There is much to learn from them. We must have a vision and do what we're able to do to get there. Should you fall short, pick yourself up, dust yourself off, learn from your errors, and continue on your way. No matter what you've been served, you will ALWAYS have the strength within you to continue.

I hope that this person finds some peace and finds vision enough to see what beautiful things God has placed in his path that he might be overlooking. Sometimes the best gifts are ones we don't even realize we've received!

Buoy Buddy

In conversing with a dear, sweet, wonderful friend from a few decades ago, it soothes my soul to know that I am not alone in my struggles, my troubles, nor my triumphs. One of life's best blessings is to realize you're not alone. Some folks rely heavily on God to serve that purpose. I do, but I think that we fail to see the Angels He provides for us to serve that purpose, like my cartwheeling crazy friend!

There is a security in knowing that we are not forced to travel the earth as an isolated being. There are folks all around us who offer solace from the storm, peace from the problems, and vibrance in our victories. When we are faced with hurdles or hard times, belittling and bullies, we need only look beside us to find a life preserver.

Sometimes that life preserver may be a stranger, but there is a spark, a smile, a warm hello that simply melts your issues away. It is at that moment, that you have been brushed by the wings of an Angel; given a gracious gift; and blessed by the buoyancy of a buddy yet unknown.

If you are faced with some struggle today . . . find your Buoy Buddy!
Be blessed!

Good Stuff!

Now HERE are some words to truly live by . . .

Treat EVERYONE with politeness, even those who are rude to you ~ not because they are nice, but because YOU are.

I told you yesterday that I had wanted to vent, but instead shifted gears and left those issues alone. I cannot change them. I will not waste my time trying. I will not bang heads or confront old friends because they are blinded by their own inadequacies. Come to find out that yesterday, when folks challenged their neanderthal rantings, they were upset that people can't civilly converse about things. Go figure!

I had the opportunity to tear it up, to let it fly and let loose some opinionated rants of my own. Instead, I chose to be polite and simply point my shoes in another direction. My 'issues' took care of themselves. God is good!

Don't waste your efforts on things you cannot alter. Focus, instead, on being the best you that you can be. You are the most perfect person you were designed to be. Realize it! Embrace it! Share it!

Love you!

Shifting Gears

For a few days, I've been wanting to vent here about a few arrogant souls who have been irritating the snot out of me! Those few folks who believe that their opinions are right and anyone who opposes said opinions are stupid, insignificant, misinformed, or unintelligent.

Any of you who have read my blog for even just a few days know that I am about the positive. I abhor the negative and what it does to people . . . including, sadly, me. I try to keep my sights focused on the good in people and I really do pray for those souls who are so very tortured that they find it necessary to belittle others. Sometimes, when my visibility is impaired, like as of late, I try not to react, but rather wait for a little sign of something brighter.

Last night . . . a beacon like no other!

Instead of moping and venting this morning about folks I cannot fix, I will instead shift gears and steer toward the kinds of people that I met with last night. My Ch-Angels . . . The All Children's Hospital Guild North Pinellas Branch! I know that when we help others, we are doing ourselves a tremendous favor. It comes back to us ten-fold or more. This could not have been more true than during last night.

This fabulous group of folks is so very eager to prosper the tiniest of patients and the families around them. We've got several upcoming events now and the energy of this tiny, but powerful group just amazes me. They step up, step out, and stand out! I am excited about our new projects and where we are headed. It will be busy and crazy and insane, but that sort of calamity is what I thrive on. It's what keeps me focused on doing the right things for the right people. Instead of . . . as previously mentioned . . . being dragged into the mire with the other Godless souls who find their happiness in the emotional kicking and beating of others. Shame on you!

I have no time for that nonsense. I am re-focused and re-energized on a much better objective. I cannot wait to see where all this positive energy brings me, brings us, and brings to All Children's Hospital!

Shift gears, folks. The change of pace is most liberating!

Enjoy the day!

A couple of quotes kind of collided today and it's days like this when you realize that things fit together for a reason. You meet certain folks to fulfill a purpose. You see things to help you understand other things. You endure trials and tribulations to assist others in their time of need and hurt. We are all part of a much larger puzzle and we should really learn to come and fit together to create the masterpiece we're part of and destined to become.

From Maya Angelou . . .
Someone was hurt before you, wronged before you, hungry before you, frightened before you, beaten before you, humiliated before you, raped before you . . . yet, someone survived. You can do anything you choose to do.

And, from David Grayson
Contentment comes as the infallible result of great acceptances, great humilities ~ of not trying to make ourselves this or that, but of surrendering ourselves to the fullness of life ~ of letting life flow through us.

I hope today that you get some answers, see some links, understand some issues, and fulfill the needs of others. It's why we're here.

Enjoy the day.

You!

You!

You are amazing. A gift from God. A human being with purpose and strength and merit.

You astound. You encourage. You inspire. You love. You care. You give.

You're passionate. You're determined. You're incredible. You're talented. You're gifted.

And if you don't believe me, who could doubt the author of Winnie the Pooh?

You're braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.

Believe in You!

A Parallel

For those of you with an inkling of intelligence . . . this is NOT about football - although it's a nice read for Giants fans! Enjoy!

I have been a huge New York Giants fan since forever. Growing up in New York, with as many brothers as I had, you watched sports and you were either a Giants fan or a Jets fan. Jim Burt became my hero in the late 1980's when the Giants won the Superbowl. (I think it was 1986.) I believe he was the first person I ever witnessed grabbing his kid and hoisting him on his shoulders after the victory. Most other players were too manly and full of testosterone to acknowledge a little kid during that time. Or so that is how I recall it. Since that time . . . nearly thirty years ago . . . I am a Giants fan through and through! Go Blue!

Now last week, the Giants played the Steelers. I don't mind the Steelers. You have to admire the Steel Curtain and their lengthy history of wicked defense. Ben Roethlisberger is a decent quarterback ~ better than most, but as a person . . . ick. Quite a colorful background he has, eh? But he plays a pretty good football game even though, as of late, his mobility has not been what it was in days of old. The Steelers are far, far, far from my favorite team, but I'd root for them over some other teams. That's for sure!

Sadly, the Giants were flat. They did not play well. Offense was pretty pathetic and 4th quarter Eli was not present at this game. The defense made a lovely doormat for the Steelers to walk on and, in the end, my favorite team did not come away victorious.

Now . . . know this . . . I will NOT suddenly become a Steelers fan. I will NOT toss away all my Giants t-shirts, jerseys and memorabilia. I will NOT for an instant begin touting "Here we go, Steelers" cheers and waving a yellow towel. I am a Giants fan. I believe in the Giants. I root for the Giants. I am proud of the Giants and will back them through thick and thin. Some seasons will be good. Some will not. But for those Steelers fans who believe that a victory on your behalf means that all of the Giants fans will swiftly and hastily don the black and gold . . . you are sadly and grossly mistaken.

We hold our Giants faith with great vim and vigor. We believe in Big Blue! The G-men will carry on in their constant endeavors to reach the end zone in every game. They won't give up. They won't change their entire game strategy over one loss. They won't cower in defeat. They will stick strong to their game plan and learn lessons from the loss.

Go Giants!!!

Let's help 'em!

As I spent an eerily long day yesterday, recuperating from the election, taking hubby to have his wisdom teeth removed, playing nurse as much as he would let me, trying to nap and constantly being woken up by either random phone calls or illegally solicitous salespeople, I had a revelation!

Remember I wrote about 'perspective'?

Yesterday was yet another dose. Having to wade through the political nonsense that the world of technology so eagerly provides, consoling friends who were feeling abused by gloaters, trying to find some silver linings among the political and emotional debris, completely confused by the onslaught of attacks on Ann Romney (sorry people, but I just do NOT understand the hatred there), and giving kudos to those gracious few who were, well, gracious . . . I happened to receive two emails.

Talk about perspective . . .

The first was from one of my husband's aunts. She, along with a majority of the Marinello family, reside on Long Island and surrounding areas. Although she still, after more than a week, had not heard from all of the family members, those closest in proximity had suffered either simply property battering or, moreso the case, lost entire first floors of everything they owned. Luckily for them, they pulled together as family and some are actually in the construction field so they've been able to begin the process of clean-up and rebuilding. They are among the lucky! They've had family nearby on which to rely and count on for assistance, shelter, and help. She said the residents have been much more helpful than most groups that should be helping but that they are just now beginning to see traces of those people around. We still await word on the rest of the family.

The second email was from a dear friend of ours who used to live here locally. Her son and mine were buds what seems like eons ago. She was a teacher in Pinellas county and chose to move back to her roots and family in NY. Her disjointed message let me know that her family is safe, although they have lost absolutely everything. Their entire house, all their belongings, their car . . . everything. She and her daughter had to be rescued the night of the storm near midnight, being plucked from nearly five feet of water in their home.

My heart is aching! I would love to donate to the Red Cross, but after Haiti and the millions of dollars that funneled into that area with not much to show for it . . . I am so very hesitant. Instead, I will find local groups who are driving truckloads of donations, or shipping needed items to specific locales in the area up there. I would strongly urge you to do the same. Whatever you are able to give . . . give it.

The country, its political landscape, the mudslinging, crying, whining, gloating, and bickering is truly so very immature and elementary. There are folks who really, really need our help. Let's help 'em!

Yup . . . That!

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

Proverbs 3:4-7

A Ch-Angel ~ and then some!

"The true way to soften one's troubles, is to solace those of others."
~  Madame de Maintenon

I had the wonderful pleasure of sitting and listening to a dear, sweet, loveable friend yesterday. Sure, the chatter was mixed with a few tears, many life questions, and a drip or two of bitterness; but it was an absolutely fabulous stretch of time in my day.

I don't know that we resolved any of her issues . . . or mine . . . but we sat together. We talked. We listened. We existed. We cried. We laughed. I yelled at the dog. She kept petting him. And it was a genuinely cleansing time. I don't really know who got more out of it.

I do know that when she left, I wished she was back. I found myself thinking of her all day and wishing her happiness, ease, and contentment. She deserves it. She's a fabulous person who has had a bumpy road as of late. She continues to move forward and constantly thinks of others. In all of her troubles . . . she volunteers at a local hospital. She is amazing!

She's a Ch-Angel and then some! Love you! Thanks for allowing me into your life and your heart. I feel awfully special for it!

An A-ha Moment

So, I woke up yesterday wanting it to be a glorious day! Hubby was headed out on the water. Miles was headed off to a long day at work and I was going to be able to recuperate from killer zumba, get some house stuff done, and watch some football.

I got on-line to do my normal morning emails, etc., and was once again bombarded with the vehemence that is this election. I have many friends with many passions. This is why I love them. They are eager to share their passion with others. I have friends who are passionate about books, gardening, English, animals, recycling, children, sports and more. They joyfully slap their messages wherever they can to promote their strongest of affirmations for these super and worthwhile causes. They do this message slapping with love for purpose in their hearts. What I was reading online provided NO love, NO purpose, and NO sense.

This election has provided nothing but divisive, crude, and disgusting behavior. It truly has left me nauseous on several occasions - seriously! The way folks believe they can speak to others, simply because they believe in something, is utterly, completely, and disdainfully repulsive! The bad mood was seeping in.

I got off the computer and, instead, turned on the tv. Bad choice! Since I have friends and family in the northeast, I'm most concerned about the efforts to get things back to normal up there. There are still many people I have not heard from. Watching the Staten Island folks without ANY thing while others are actually headed back to work just made my heart weep. People who didn't just lose their homes. They have no idea where their homes went. Mothers losing children. Families searching for family members and friends and just endless devastation. The bad mood became worse.

Now . . . let's throw in a conversation of texts where I learned that, once again, my name is getting dragged through the slop! Apparently, I'm assisting in a family issue of a friend. I'm 'playing sides' and 'stirring up trouble'. NONE of which is true. These folks have so many issues, I think Freud would run away screaming! I thought I could trust this person who was once my best of friends. Now, I see what she's really, truly all about and it makes my skin crawl. She is a shameful shell of a human who is tearing her family apart for the sake of being correct. Sickening!

I just wanted to cry. I was saying bad words, drinking beer AND eating Hershey's Kisses. THAT is how bad it was. And . . . then . . . while texting my boy updates about the Bucs and Giants games and expressing my sadness in the Giants loss, he asked what had happened. I texted that they made a few mistakes and I typed: "You can't fix stupid!" And it was an 'A-ha Moment'! I just stared at my text before I sent it. I taught myself my own lesson. I cannot change bad things, bad manners, or bad people. I am in charge of me.

I wish each of you a day, today, of beauty and wonder and blessings. It WILL be a much better day than yesterday! Be well!

Lightening the Load

Since yesterday was so very intense . . . I thought I might lighten things up just a tad.

In the wake of Hurricane Sandy and the political storm that blows through every day, it is way too easy to get weighted down by the devastation of lives and country. Maybe we instead should focus on the fact that truly so few folks were lost to a storm that spanned 1600 miles and that no matter the divide that is being wrought in this nation, we come together to help our neighbors no matter the circumstances. It's who we are . . . Americans! And, please don't jump on me about the 'so few folks lost' statement. There is not one life that is not special, unique, and tremendously precious. Even one life lost is far too saddening, but with the magnitude of Sandy . . . the loss could have been much, much higher.

So . . . today . . . a few tidbits to live by:

Laugh when you can.
Apologize when you should.
Let go of what you cannot change.
Kiss slowly.
Play hard.
Forgive quickly.
Take chances.
Give everything.
Have no regrets.

Life is too short to be anything but happy!

My heart breaks for my northern friends and family. Much love to you all. Be safe and be well.

Perspective

So close to election, I am OVER all the negative attacks and skewed garbage that we are bombarded with at every opportunity. The President is SUPPOSED to offer support to ravaged storm victims. This is nothing heroic or amazing. The other candidate collected canned goods and diapers, not money. Oooh, what a horrible gesture. (Sense the sarcasm, please!) I wish all of you who are throwing around all the nonsense could have attended the dinner I did last night . . .

I am a member of the All Children's Hospital Guild. We volunteer, advocate, and fundraiser for the children and families of All Children's Hospital. We, as a group of nine locales, raised over $4 million dollars for the new hospital's NICU unit. Our new mission to raising $900,000 for the hospital's Pediatric Palliative Care Program.

During several hours of gathering, there were only two stories told. One was of "John". An infant born with serious health issues to Catholic parents who refused to abort him because of their religious beliefs. The Palliative Care Program was there for them. "John" was not expected to live very long, so the parents requested he spend as much time as possible at home so they could be a family. The Palliative Care Program was there to assist. The mother simply wanted her precious son to live to see his first birthday, and for his two brothers to enjoy him as much as possible. The Palliative Care Program made that happen. "John" and the family went to Disney for his first birthday. It was a miracle milestone helped to fruition by the Palliative Care Program. The day before Mother's Day, "John" earned his Ch-Angel wings. The family mourned their loss but were ecstatic and thankful to the Palliative Care Program for the blessing of "John" and all the time they were allowed to share with him.

The second story was of an older teenage girl, 17 I believe. She has cancer. She spent a lot of time in and out of the hospital. Too much time. She approached the Palliative Care Program folks and asked to help have her voice heard. With their assistance, she spoke up on her own behalf to find a way to live a more normal 'teenage existence' around her treatment, instead of the other way around. And, with the Palliative Care Program's help, she went to prom and graduated with her class.

Perspective is an incredible thing. I don't know why I was suprised that I cried at a hospital event. I ALWAYS cry at hospital events. Maybe it was just the depth of these stories that touched my heart when the world, as of late, seems to be so cold and mean and hateful. I just wish you folks who are lowering your standards and ethics and morals to make your point, would look beyond your politically colored glasses to see a bigger world. It's out there. It's not always pretty, but there are folks who make it amazing and a privilege to be an inhabitant of.

Choose your perspective! Choose wisely!

Goethe, after Halloween!

Whatever you do, or dream you can do, begin it.
Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it.
~  Goethe

This is so true on so many levels.

It rings especially true through my New York blood today as they begin to dig out, rebuild, and transform what Sandy did to that city. Also, and probably more so, for New Jersey-ans.

Boldness does not begin to explain the fortitude with which they must move forward.

God speed on the recovery efforts and also on the rebuilding efforts. The resilience of all those affected is astounding. We are, after all, Americans; resigned to assist one another. It's just what we do. Neighbor helping neighbor. Family helping family.

This too shall pass! God bless!

Booooooo!

Happy Halloween all!

This day is about the wee people. You might believe this to be a pagan holiday, so let the youngens wear a princess costume or a policeman costume. The youngens do not need to have their hopes dashed at the tender age of five, because you may believe something different. They simply want to romp around and get some candy. Might as well tell them about the Easter Bunny and Santa Claus while you're at it!

As parents, we are to strengthen our children. We build strong character and morals and teach them right from wrong and to do a good deed when the opportunity presents itself. When my kids were little, and the treats from Halloween surpassed the 'this-will-last-til-NEXT-Halloween,' we found an orthodontist who did a candy buy-back program. This ortho would give the kids $1/pound of candy and send the candy to troops overseas. It was a win-win. The first year, they lined their tiny pockets with a whopping ten dollars.

And then . . . the Marinello wheels began turning! We had held car washes and cosmic bowling events to raise money for The Children's Dream Fund. Now . . . we had our sights set on next Halloween and asking other kids for their excess to turn in to make cash for sick kids. The second year, we confiscated over $600 worth of sweets. The third year, the word was out there . . . and people were calling me!

The ortho actually called me into his office and said I was abusing his kindness. I told him that if he was truly kind, he wouldn't care. He tried to cut off the third year's donations, but I called to arms some of those folks I mentioned in the past two days and together . . . for the sake of sick kids battling serious and life-threatening illnesses . . . we managed to raise over $1100!!! That's more than half a ton of candy that sat in my living room waiting to go to the ortho in dribs and drabs so as not to frazzle the good doctor! It was glorious!

So you see, Halloween doesn't have to be a pagan ritual. It can be an event that you turn into a pay-it-forward sort of activity. There are many ways to alter the plethora of sugary confections you obtain. Have a little fun with it ~ while teaching the kids a wonderful lesson!

The orthodontist now has a $10 limit on buy backs. Booooooo!