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!
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Constant Ch-Angels!
Today, much like yesterday, is another day for Ch-Angels. These are the Ch-Angels who provide that consistency to life. These are the folks who have simply been constants. These Ch-Angels have been riveted in a solid, steady assuredness in my life. Some of them are the same as yesterday's, but there are some new ~ and even more significant ~ persons mentioned here.
I thank you for your dedication, support, and friendship. I thank you for your consistency and caring in and throughout my life. I appreciate your love, your backing, and your beautiful spirits which have made life's trials more bearable, and life's triumphs more enjoyable!
God bless you Susie, Tana, Harold, Kate, Donald, Lenny, Susan, Becky, Kitty, Winnie, Anne, Sharon, Analisa, Jackie, Edie, Dianna, Carol, Todd, Danny, Bill, Paul, Donald, Nancy (who should have also been on yesterday's list), Michelle, Athena (who should have also been on yesterday's list), Jamie, Heidi, Michelle, and my immediate family.
I hope, today, that you count the constant blessings that about around you. There are many!
I thank you for your dedication, support, and friendship. I thank you for your consistency and caring in and throughout my life. I appreciate your love, your backing, and your beautiful spirits which have made life's trials more bearable, and life's triumphs more enjoyable!
God bless you Susie, Tana, Harold, Kate, Donald, Lenny, Susan, Becky, Kitty, Winnie, Anne, Sharon, Analisa, Jackie, Edie, Dianna, Carol, Todd, Danny, Bill, Paul, Donald, Nancy (who should have also been on yesterday's list), Michelle, Athena (who should have also been on yesterday's list), Jamie, Heidi, Michelle, and my immediate family.
I hope, today, that you count the constant blessings that about around you. There are many!
Monday, October 29, 2012
Ch-Angel Time!
I was inspired by a friend, Natalie, to do some thanking! But of course . . . I have to do it 'Ch-Angel style'!
This is going out today to all those folks who truly helped to shape my life. You created within me the core of who I am. Either by your kindness, your generosity, your love, your spirit, your guidance, or even your coldness, your cruelty, your pain, or your hurt; you helped me to forge certain undeniable components that still stand firm within me today.
Some of you helped me through very hard times. Some of you just listened and existed with me. Some of you joined me in the youthful rebellion that was adolescence. Some of you helped me endure the struggles of growing up. Some of you offered guidance and grains of knowledge that I continue to use today. Some of you hurt me more than you'll ever know, but those pains helped me to be strong and independent. Some of you were bullies and cruel, but that nonsense taught me to not be distracted but to simply and steadfastly follow my heart and my dreams.
And so, for being Ch-Angels in a world where angels are so desperately needed, I thank you! Please know how much you mean to me. It has all been positive - even when it's been negative.
Thank you (in random order) Sue, Tana, Harold, Billy, Donald, Daun, Donna, Ricky, Kate, Timi, Mark, Heather, Chris, Lenny, Susan, Becky, Bob, James, Bad Frank, Good Frank, Debbie, Kim, Kitty, Glenn, Bad Tony, Worse Tony, Deb, Conrad, Peg, Katrina, Ann, Avril, Analisa, Rhonda, Jeannie, Diane, Jackie, Ward, Edie, Candice, Michelle, Dawn, Craig, Jill, Ron, Rosemary, Norma, Vanessa, Jessica, Gloria, Good Tony, Donna, Jennifer, Kim, Ali, Carolyn, Todd, Danny, Bill, Paul, David, Dick, Julia, and all of my immediate family.
Doesn't seem like many people, but these were folks that TRULY made an impact . . . good or bad.
I hope today, that you take some time as Natalie has so inspired me to do, to thank a few people for what they have done for you. Good or bad, they have helped to make you who you are and you are mighty special.
Be thankful! Today and always!
This is going out today to all those folks who truly helped to shape my life. You created within me the core of who I am. Either by your kindness, your generosity, your love, your spirit, your guidance, or even your coldness, your cruelty, your pain, or your hurt; you helped me to forge certain undeniable components that still stand firm within me today.
Some of you helped me through very hard times. Some of you just listened and existed with me. Some of you joined me in the youthful rebellion that was adolescence. Some of you helped me endure the struggles of growing up. Some of you offered guidance and grains of knowledge that I continue to use today. Some of you hurt me more than you'll ever know, but those pains helped me to be strong and independent. Some of you were bullies and cruel, but that nonsense taught me to not be distracted but to simply and steadfastly follow my heart and my dreams.
And so, for being Ch-Angels in a world where angels are so desperately needed, I thank you! Please know how much you mean to me. It has all been positive - even when it's been negative.
Thank you (in random order) Sue, Tana, Harold, Billy, Donald, Daun, Donna, Ricky, Kate, Timi, Mark, Heather, Chris, Lenny, Susan, Becky, Bob, James, Bad Frank, Good Frank, Debbie, Kim, Kitty, Glenn, Bad Tony, Worse Tony, Deb, Conrad, Peg, Katrina, Ann, Avril, Analisa, Rhonda, Jeannie, Diane, Jackie, Ward, Edie, Candice, Michelle, Dawn, Craig, Jill, Ron, Rosemary, Norma, Vanessa, Jessica, Gloria, Good Tony, Donna, Jennifer, Kim, Ali, Carolyn, Todd, Danny, Bill, Paul, David, Dick, Julia, and all of my immediate family.
Doesn't seem like many people, but these were folks that TRULY made an impact . . . good or bad.
I hope today, that you take some time as Natalie has so inspired me to do, to thank a few people for what they have done for you. Good or bad, they have helped to make you who you are and you are mighty special.
Be thankful! Today and always!
Saturday, October 27, 2012
Take it!
Ralph has just got to be one of my favorites!
This morsel is perfect for gnawing on all weekend. It gives you two whole days to go do grandiose things, without reciprocal expectations, simply because it is the right thing to do!
You can never do a kindness too soon because you never know how soon it will be too late.
When you notice the opportunity for a random-act-of-kindness . . . take it.
When you face the freedom to partake in a good deed . . . take it.
When you see a small chance to make someone's day better . . . take it.
Take it, people. Take it!
This morsel is perfect for gnawing on all weekend. It gives you two whole days to go do grandiose things, without reciprocal expectations, simply because it is the right thing to do!
You can never do a kindness too soon because you never know how soon it will be too late.
When you notice the opportunity for a random-act-of-kindness . . . take it.
When you face the freedom to partake in a good deed . . . take it.
When you see a small chance to make someone's day better . . . take it.
Take it, people. Take it!
Friday, October 26, 2012
Have Fun
Creativity is Intelligence Having Fun. ~ Albert Einstein
THIS, I absolutely adore!
If there is one thing my mother taught me it was to have fun. She used to say that when you're 'all worked out' and can't take it any more . . . play a game, sing a song, turn on the radio and dance. Do something fun.
As we sat for hours and sometimes days typing Gestalt Journals for one of our clients back in the late 70's and early 80's, we would certainly need to STOP and change pace every now and again. Even now, when I'm working on big projects or events, I will stop and play my Words With Friends, or if no one is around on-line, I will do a little mah-jong or solitaire or some other silly game. And I am thrilled to say I've caught my son doing the same. He'll be furiously and laboriously working on some ethics essay and next thing you know . . . he's playing a football game or a basketball game. It's all good . . . and necessary!
When you weigh down your intelligence with work, work, work . . . there's no fun.
When there's no fun . . . there's no creativity.
Without creativity . . . Jack's a very dull boy!
Don't be a dull boy!
Get creative. Let your intelligence wander and soar and play and have fun.
THIS, I absolutely adore!
If there is one thing my mother taught me it was to have fun. She used to say that when you're 'all worked out' and can't take it any more . . . play a game, sing a song, turn on the radio and dance. Do something fun.
As we sat for hours and sometimes days typing Gestalt Journals for one of our clients back in the late 70's and early 80's, we would certainly need to STOP and change pace every now and again. Even now, when I'm working on big projects or events, I will stop and play my Words With Friends, or if no one is around on-line, I will do a little mah-jong or solitaire or some other silly game. And I am thrilled to say I've caught my son doing the same. He'll be furiously and laboriously working on some ethics essay and next thing you know . . . he's playing a football game or a basketball game. It's all good . . . and necessary!
When you weigh down your intelligence with work, work, work . . . there's no fun.
When there's no fun . . . there's no creativity.
Without creativity . . . Jack's a very dull boy!
Don't be a dull boy!
Get creative. Let your intelligence wander and soar and play and have fun.
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Ebb and Flow and Moor
There is sorrow. There is laughter.
There is faleshood. There is truth.
There is pain. There is joy.
There is hate. There is love.
There is anger. There is peace.
There is unfamiliarity. There is friendship.
The ebb and flow of life are continual. There are very few things that remain steadfast and constant.
Faith!
Your solid, invariant, ceaseless port.
Cast your lines, tie up and moor in your uncertainty.
There is faleshood. There is truth.
There is pain. There is joy.
There is hate. There is love.
There is anger. There is peace.
There is unfamiliarity. There is friendship.
The ebb and flow of life are continual. There are very few things that remain steadfast and constant.
Faith!
Your solid, invariant, ceaseless port.
Cast your lines, tie up and moor in your uncertainty.
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Sticks and Stones
A stick in the road can be a hazard or a useful tool in climbing the steeper hills.
A stumbling block to the pessimist is a stepping stone to the optimist.
Sticks and stones may break your bones, but they can also be the best sources of strength and opportunity!
Make YOUR choice!
A stumbling block to the pessimist is a stepping stone to the optimist.
Sticks and stones may break your bones, but they can also be the best sources of strength and opportunity!
Make YOUR choice!
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
An Old Favorite
This is something I wrote a while ago. Every now and again, my tiny, feeble brain truly amazes me with what falls out. I actually won a very small weekly contest with this one and I just happened to stumble across it again. I do hope you enjoy it!
Midnight
The black of night
Shrouds more than the day's light
It cloaks our inhibitions
Reveals our underbellies
It conceals our indiscretions
Imparts our desires
It masks our vulgarities
Divulges our wanton hungers
Midnight:
Great Veil ~ Truth Disclosed
Midnight
The black of night
Shrouds more than the day's light
It cloaks our inhibitions
Reveals our underbellies
It conceals our indiscretions
Imparts our desires
It masks our vulgarities
Divulges our wanton hungers
Midnight:
Great Veil ~ Truth Disclosed
Monday, October 22, 2012
Share Yourself
Everyone loves to be victorious; to win the race, to reach the top, to achieve their goal, to stand atop a podium and receive the accolades earned through their endeavors. I think, though, that many folks miss the point that sometimes the most important thing is not necessarily the triumph but the struggle to get there.
As we strive to be victorious, there are many days where we may take one step forward and five steps back. Those five steps are critically important. The teach us humility, resilience, and fortitude.
When we are learning to run our race, we may suffer strains and pains along the way. Stretch properly and allow our muscles to slowly reach their potential. We must learn patience and endurance.
In climbing to the apex of any goal, we must occasionally take in the vista and absorb the beauty of the small plateaus we reach. In acknowledging our labors, we realize our persistence and determination.
To finally attain that pat-on-the-back honor is a wonderful achievement, but we've got to learn to put our lessons we were taught on the way into practice. To have struggled and walked through it, gives you a unique perspective, understanding, and consciousness for those who follow.
Whether it is weight loss, sickness, depression, or survival, you endured to be of comfort to someone else. Your victory is never truly complete unless it is shared!
Today, go share yourself.
As we strive to be victorious, there are many days where we may take one step forward and five steps back. Those five steps are critically important. The teach us humility, resilience, and fortitude.
When we are learning to run our race, we may suffer strains and pains along the way. Stretch properly and allow our muscles to slowly reach their potential. We must learn patience and endurance.
In climbing to the apex of any goal, we must occasionally take in the vista and absorb the beauty of the small plateaus we reach. In acknowledging our labors, we realize our persistence and determination.
To finally attain that pat-on-the-back honor is a wonderful achievement, but we've got to learn to put our lessons we were taught on the way into practice. To have struggled and walked through it, gives you a unique perspective, understanding, and consciousness for those who follow.
Whether it is weight loss, sickness, depression, or survival, you endured to be of comfort to someone else. Your victory is never truly complete unless it is shared!
Today, go share yourself.
Sunday, October 21, 2012
Super Sunday!
So we are two weeks from November and here in the Sunshine State we have finally been able to open our windows. It is stunningly beautiful here. The sun is still high in the sky but it's really not trying to melt us any more. There is a breeze and the humidity is next to non-existent.
We shared a few outside chores yesterday and I was actually lucky enough to spend an hour or so sitting outside reading while the pooch sunbathed and romped in and out. Hubby and I took the old MG out for a little open-air ride to a local street festival and wandered around listening to music and people watching. We came home to a nice dinner and some decent, hard-fought football.
It was a gorgeous day with lots of blessings peppered into it. We drove by a couple who had just gotten married and were taking photos by the water. In our little car, it was convenient and easy to shout our congratulations to them. What a happy moment for them . . . and us. We had a civilized and decent conversation with a vendor at the street fair who was a fan of the opposing team we were playing last night. He wasn't negative or nasty. In fact, he said he was just hoping for a good game - which is was. It was a fabulous change from all the rhetoric that goes on far too often.
So, today, I'm not sure we can match yesterday . . . but we can try! There are boundless blessings all around us every day. One must just open one's eyes to see them and to drink them all in. Today, I wish for you more blessings than you can count, more smiles than your face muscles can muster, and more love than your heart can process.
Have a Super Sunday!
We shared a few outside chores yesterday and I was actually lucky enough to spend an hour or so sitting outside reading while the pooch sunbathed and romped in and out. Hubby and I took the old MG out for a little open-air ride to a local street festival and wandered around listening to music and people watching. We came home to a nice dinner and some decent, hard-fought football.
It was a gorgeous day with lots of blessings peppered into it. We drove by a couple who had just gotten married and were taking photos by the water. In our little car, it was convenient and easy to shout our congratulations to them. What a happy moment for them . . . and us. We had a civilized and decent conversation with a vendor at the street fair who was a fan of the opposing team we were playing last night. He wasn't negative or nasty. In fact, he said he was just hoping for a good game - which is was. It was a fabulous change from all the rhetoric that goes on far too often.
So, today, I'm not sure we can match yesterday . . . but we can try! There are boundless blessings all around us every day. One must just open one's eyes to see them and to drink them all in. Today, I wish for you more blessings than you can count, more smiles than your face muscles can muster, and more love than your heart can process.
Have a Super Sunday!
Saturday, October 20, 2012
All Shook Up
I adore Elvis Presley! He was a gifted and talented singer, actor, person and much more. I remember sitting on my mom's lap and crying the day we heard of his passing.
One of my favorite tunes of his is, "All Shook Up!" (ooh ooh ooh, mmmmmm, yeah, yeah!) And that is how I feel today.
I spent the last two days in Boca Raton with my husband. My second step-dad left me the contents of his house in his will. I went there with the hopes of finding a few tangible bits of memories of him and my mom. It was a most successful trip.
As I cleaned out the closets, I laughed hysterically at every napkin and tissue that was stuffed into pant and shirt pockets. The two of them were constantly blowing noses. I then went into the lanai to find a basket full of sand dollars that we all wrote on as wedding favors for their Hawaiian-style wedding. I cried and cried and cried. Then we cleaned out a desk of his and I found one letter from my son to Alfonso. It was innocent and sweet and beautiful and it made me laugh AND cry. I found a thank-you note from my daughter to her grandparents thanking them for a graduation present. She signed the card; 'Love Deanna, your grand daughter with the great ass' cause that's what my mom always told her. Again, I laughed AND cried. I found a beautiful picture that Alfonso kept beside his desk of his mom. Of course I took it down to save it and low and behold, on the back was a note written that stated: "Please don't park here or ask. Next time - Police". So very typical Alfonso and I wasn't sure if it was before or after the photo of his mom was put on that paper, so again, I laughed AND cried.
Through the tears, however, I enjoyed my husband thoroughly, who was basking in the air conditioning that he wasn't sure the house even had. We were never allowed to turn it on; nor allowed to open a window when visiting them. It was next to torture, but now we laughed about having it on. I laughed as Victor went through the garage and all I kept hearing was, "Dude, throw SOMETHING away!" And we laughed as we looked rather like the Beverly Hillbillies packing the car to bring stuff home.
So the trip created one of those "All Shook Up" sort of emotional roller coasters. I retrieved a few things that truly touched and tugged at the heart strings. It was a good trip. I miss them both dearly. They will, however, always remain within my heart! I'm All Shook Up!
One of my favorite tunes of his is, "All Shook Up!" (ooh ooh ooh, mmmmmm, yeah, yeah!) And that is how I feel today.
I spent the last two days in Boca Raton with my husband. My second step-dad left me the contents of his house in his will. I went there with the hopes of finding a few tangible bits of memories of him and my mom. It was a most successful trip.
As I cleaned out the closets, I laughed hysterically at every napkin and tissue that was stuffed into pant and shirt pockets. The two of them were constantly blowing noses. I then went into the lanai to find a basket full of sand dollars that we all wrote on as wedding favors for their Hawaiian-style wedding. I cried and cried and cried. Then we cleaned out a desk of his and I found one letter from my son to Alfonso. It was innocent and sweet and beautiful and it made me laugh AND cry. I found a thank-you note from my daughter to her grandparents thanking them for a graduation present. She signed the card; 'Love Deanna, your grand daughter with the great ass' cause that's what my mom always told her. Again, I laughed AND cried. I found a beautiful picture that Alfonso kept beside his desk of his mom. Of course I took it down to save it and low and behold, on the back was a note written that stated: "Please don't park here or ask. Next time - Police". So very typical Alfonso and I wasn't sure if it was before or after the photo of his mom was put on that paper, so again, I laughed AND cried.
Through the tears, however, I enjoyed my husband thoroughly, who was basking in the air conditioning that he wasn't sure the house even had. We were never allowed to turn it on; nor allowed to open a window when visiting them. It was next to torture, but now we laughed about having it on. I laughed as Victor went through the garage and all I kept hearing was, "Dude, throw SOMETHING away!" And we laughed as we looked rather like the Beverly Hillbillies packing the car to bring stuff home.
So the trip created one of those "All Shook Up" sort of emotional roller coasters. I retrieved a few things that truly touched and tugged at the heart strings. It was a good trip. I miss them both dearly. They will, however, always remain within my heart! I'm All Shook Up!
Thursday, October 18, 2012
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Good Day!
Today is quite a special day for me!
Not only do I have a couple of friends who are celebrating birthdays - Happy Birthday Kate and Haley!
Not only do I remember in reverence the devastating earthquake that occurred in San Francisco.
No . . . it's much more than that!
Twenty-three years ago today, my best friend nervously asked me out to a fancy dinner ~ Italian, of course ~ and asked me to be his bride! It was a perfect evening with a perfect person with a perfect outcome.
The last couple of decades have not gone without some bumps and bruises, hurdles and high jumps, tests and tribulations, but we have survived. We have actually MORE than survived. We have fluorished. We have become better friends and companions that I ever thought possible. We enjoy one another and the two very special people we've created. We play. We laugh. We sweat. We work. We coexist beautifully.
It might be silly, or maybe even immature, to celebrate the anniversary of this date with such exuberance. Be that as it may, I will celebrate it every year with a glee and a joy and a thrill that I wish everyone could know. It is special and spectacular.
I really am blessed and . . . even though there have been all those detours along the way, the journey has been as euphoric as I could ever imagine or hope for. Thanks, Vic, for choosing little old me. You've filled my life with all sorts of wonder and wonderful!
It's a Good Day!
Not only do I have a couple of friends who are celebrating birthdays - Happy Birthday Kate and Haley!
Not only do I remember in reverence the devastating earthquake that occurred in San Francisco.
No . . . it's much more than that!
Twenty-three years ago today, my best friend nervously asked me out to a fancy dinner ~ Italian, of course ~ and asked me to be his bride! It was a perfect evening with a perfect person with a perfect outcome.
The last couple of decades have not gone without some bumps and bruises, hurdles and high jumps, tests and tribulations, but we have survived. We have actually MORE than survived. We have fluorished. We have become better friends and companions that I ever thought possible. We enjoy one another and the two very special people we've created. We play. We laugh. We sweat. We work. We coexist beautifully.
It might be silly, or maybe even immature, to celebrate the anniversary of this date with such exuberance. Be that as it may, I will celebrate it every year with a glee and a joy and a thrill that I wish everyone could know. It is special and spectacular.
I really am blessed and . . . even though there have been all those detours along the way, the journey has been as euphoric as I could ever imagine or hope for. Thanks, Vic, for choosing little old me. You've filled my life with all sorts of wonder and wonderful!
It's a Good Day!
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
No Option
Some people love him. Some people hate him. But whether or not you're a fan, you cannot deny this tasty tidbit that Lance Armstrong offers:
Pain is temporary.
It may last a minute, or an hour, or a day, or a year,
but eventually it will subside and something else will take its place.
If I quit, however, it lasts forever!
Walking through the valleys, enduring the struggles, makes the view from the mountaintop that much more spectacular!
Never, ever quit!
Pain is temporary.
It may last a minute, or an hour, or a day, or a year,
but eventually it will subside and something else will take its place.
If I quit, however, it lasts forever!
Walking through the valleys, enduring the struggles, makes the view from the mountaintop that much more spectacular!
Never, ever quit!
Monday, October 15, 2012
YOU are the key!
Today, be the best you you are capable of being. Tomorrow, you'll be even better.
The content of your character is your choice. You may face tremendous obstacles. You may be fighting hardships. You may be down on your luck or squaring off against seemingly horribly odds. How you respond to those issues speaks volumes about you.
You could allow those obstacles to tower over you. You could let those hardships beat you down. You could let those odds overwhelm you, but . . . my mom taught me about gamblin' and I'm all about beating those odds!
Day by day, what you choose and what you think and what you do create who you become. That choice is constantly and consistently YOURS! Sometimes it is one step forward and three steps back, but just keep moving. Believing in your own abilities and worth will fuel your travels.
There is nothing holding you back but you.
The only person allowing someone else to make you feel bad is you.
The only person limiting your dreams is you.
Believe in YOU. I do!
The content of your character is your choice. You may face tremendous obstacles. You may be fighting hardships. You may be down on your luck or squaring off against seemingly horribly odds. How you respond to those issues speaks volumes about you.
You could allow those obstacles to tower over you. You could let those hardships beat you down. You could let those odds overwhelm you, but . . . my mom taught me about gamblin' and I'm all about beating those odds!
Day by day, what you choose and what you think and what you do create who you become. That choice is constantly and consistently YOURS! Sometimes it is one step forward and three steps back, but just keep moving. Believing in your own abilities and worth will fuel your travels.
There is nothing holding you back but you.
The only person allowing someone else to make you feel bad is you.
The only person limiting your dreams is you.
Believe in YOU. I do!
Saturday, October 13, 2012
For Aubrey - Thank You!
Little tiny fingers
Little tiny toes
Little fuzzy cranium
Little button nose
Smells of powdery sweetness
Wonders at all the world
Holds tight to things within her grasp
Beautiful baby girl
Fits within a single arm
Stares peacefully about
Innocence within my grasp
Pure love with not a doubt
I had my 'baby fix' last night
A miracle in my hands
Mine are grown and absent now
A mother understands
Sometimes you need a moment
To gather in your arms
The perfection God created
And its perfect little charms
Thank you!
Little tiny toes
Little fuzzy cranium
Little button nose
Smells of powdery sweetness
Wonders at all the world
Holds tight to things within her grasp
Beautiful baby girl
Fits within a single arm
Stares peacefully about
Innocence within my grasp
Pure love with not a doubt
I had my 'baby fix' last night
A miracle in my hands
Mine are grown and absent now
A mother understands
Sometimes you need a moment
To gather in your arms
The perfection God created
And its perfect little charms
Thank you!
Friday, October 12, 2012
THAT Guy
Had an absolutely fabulous evening last night. I spent the evening AWAY from the television and went to Tampa Bay Busch Gardens' Howl-O-Scream. I laughed, I screamed, I giggled, I ran away from all the ghoulies, I almost lost my dinner on a few roller coasters, and just thoroughly enjoyed a few fun-filled hours with my best friend and hubby, Victor.
And then . . . I woke up this morning and WHAM . . . nothing but political darts and disrespectful boxing all over the internet. It continues to amaze me how folks who very much strike me as stand-up, well-mannered, polite individuals can turn into such vile, foul-mouthed, and distastefully rude human beings. Alas, this is what has become of our country.
Whatever happened to: "Go Team!"?
Why does it need to be "My team is gonna kick your team's #$*&'s! You suck! You are a loser and you stand no chance?" Civility and courteous behavior seem to be making strange bedfellows with, perhaps, the dinosaurs.
The content of your character is your choice. What you choose to believe, how you behave, what you think and how you profess all of that is who you become.
Do you really wanna be THAT guy?
And then . . . I woke up this morning and WHAM . . . nothing but political darts and disrespectful boxing all over the internet. It continues to amaze me how folks who very much strike me as stand-up, well-mannered, polite individuals can turn into such vile, foul-mouthed, and distastefully rude human beings. Alas, this is what has become of our country.
Whatever happened to: "Go Team!"?
Why does it need to be "My team is gonna kick your team's #$*&'s! You suck! You are a loser and you stand no chance?" Civility and courteous behavior seem to be making strange bedfellows with, perhaps, the dinosaurs.
The content of your character is your choice. What you choose to believe, how you behave, what you think and how you profess all of that is who you become.
Do you really wanna be THAT guy?
Thursday, October 11, 2012
Share the Wealth
Yesterday started off a little stressful but finished wish such flare and fantasticalness (don't judge me!), that I could hardly stand it.
Unlike the frantic day prior, yesterday was just filled with blessing after blessing after blessing. Letters from friends, help for my son, finding money in the laundry, getting things accomplished, and more.
I even decided to pay it forward and attempted to pay for the few groceries the man in line behind me was buying. When I got to my car, loaded my groceries, and finally hopped in the driver's seat, I noticed that he was standing at my window. He actually attempted to give me my money back.
I asked him where he was from. He replied, "I just moved down here from Long Island, NY. I didn't feel like unpacking so I ordered a pizza for dinner and wanted a few spices to put on top." I asked where he got his pizza from and he answered in the affirmative of one of the best pizza joints around. I told him, it's been a good day for me and I wanted to share the wealth.
He stared at the ground for a moment and then just looked at me kind of dumbfounded. I said, "Please don't give it back . . . you go pay it foward." The smile that beamed from his face was absolutely beautiful! He almost floated back to his car.
Some days . . . you can just see the beauty of a soul in a simple smile!
Go make the world beautiful today!
Unlike the frantic day prior, yesterday was just filled with blessing after blessing after blessing. Letters from friends, help for my son, finding money in the laundry, getting things accomplished, and more.
I even decided to pay it forward and attempted to pay for the few groceries the man in line behind me was buying. When I got to my car, loaded my groceries, and finally hopped in the driver's seat, I noticed that he was standing at my window. He actually attempted to give me my money back.
I asked him where he was from. He replied, "I just moved down here from Long Island, NY. I didn't feel like unpacking so I ordered a pizza for dinner and wanted a few spices to put on top." I asked where he got his pizza from and he answered in the affirmative of one of the best pizza joints around. I told him, it's been a good day for me and I wanted to share the wealth.
He stared at the ground for a moment and then just looked at me kind of dumbfounded. I said, "Please don't give it back . . . you go pay it foward." The smile that beamed from his face was absolutely beautiful! He almost floated back to his car.
Some days . . . you can just see the beauty of a soul in a simple smile!
Go make the world beautiful today!
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
You done good!
Yesterday was one of those days.
One of those days where you have all this energy and you're ready to go tear up the gym, but your car won't start.
You face this issue and find you need a new battery.
You tackle this task and now you're all dirty and sweaty ~ do you need to go to the gym?
First, you choose to visit with the little angel who stopped to help you with your battery.
Now . . . do you REALLY want to go to the gym?
Hubby calls. "Go to the gym!"
OK, I guess that question got answered.
You head to the gym and have an incredible workout, but now you have to go to the grocery store.
Now, super sweaty and probably a little smelly, you hit the grocery store.
Dinner is purchased and you head home.
During a far-too-late lunch, and while you're trying to relax and watch a little tv, the boy texts asking about a computer program.
Now you're running back and forth between lunch and the computer trying to help him out.
You finally finish lunch AND have given up on the hopeless computer problem.
You now face cleaning out the closet a little. First, though, a shower.
OK, refreshed but physically exhausted, with the closet cleaned out (a little), you sit and text hubby to find out when he'll be home so dinner can be ready for him.
He texts back that he's in the driveway.
So . . . up to create the masterpiece that is Panko Chicken with cilantro/jalapeno hummus. It takes a while, but it is surely worth the effort.
It has been a day. One of those ragged sorts that leaves you mentally feeble and physically drained. You could look at it, bedraggled, from the perspective of feeling like a semi just ran you over.
Or . . .
Look at all the things that you accomplished! No, it did not go as planned, but it was a most productive day. All the things - barring the unsolved computer problem - went swimmingly. It's one of those 'perspective' sort of days when you have to stop whining long enough to figure out what a great job you did with what you were given.
Go ahead, pat yourself on the back. You done good, kid! You done good!
One of those days where you have all this energy and you're ready to go tear up the gym, but your car won't start.
You face this issue and find you need a new battery.
You tackle this task and now you're all dirty and sweaty ~ do you need to go to the gym?
First, you choose to visit with the little angel who stopped to help you with your battery.
Now . . . do you REALLY want to go to the gym?
Hubby calls. "Go to the gym!"
OK, I guess that question got answered.
You head to the gym and have an incredible workout, but now you have to go to the grocery store.
Now, super sweaty and probably a little smelly, you hit the grocery store.
Dinner is purchased and you head home.
During a far-too-late lunch, and while you're trying to relax and watch a little tv, the boy texts asking about a computer program.
Now you're running back and forth between lunch and the computer trying to help him out.
You finally finish lunch AND have given up on the hopeless computer problem.
You now face cleaning out the closet a little. First, though, a shower.
OK, refreshed but physically exhausted, with the closet cleaned out (a little), you sit and text hubby to find out when he'll be home so dinner can be ready for him.
He texts back that he's in the driveway.
So . . . up to create the masterpiece that is Panko Chicken with cilantro/jalapeno hummus. It takes a while, but it is surely worth the effort.
It has been a day. One of those ragged sorts that leaves you mentally feeble and physically drained. You could look at it, bedraggled, from the perspective of feeling like a semi just ran you over.
Or . . .
Look at all the things that you accomplished! No, it did not go as planned, but it was a most productive day. All the things - barring the unsolved computer problem - went swimmingly. It's one of those 'perspective' sort of days when you have to stop whining long enough to figure out what a great job you did with what you were given.
Go ahead, pat yourself on the back. You done good, kid! You done good!
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Wrong question
What incredible person will you become?
Who will you turn out to be?
What amazing things will you accomplish?
Our biggest and deepest fears are not that we are inadequate or incapable.
Rather, and conversely, that we are powerful beyond our imagination.
It is not the dark spots we harbor that hold us back.
More so, it is the brilliance within us that frightens us most.
We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, successful, talented, gorgeous, fabulous, fruitful, incredible, favored, triumphant, blessed?
Wrong question, my friends.
Who are you NOT to be?
Who will you turn out to be?
What amazing things will you accomplish?
Our biggest and deepest fears are not that we are inadequate or incapable.
Rather, and conversely, that we are powerful beyond our imagination.
It is not the dark spots we harbor that hold us back.
More so, it is the brilliance within us that frightens us most.
We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, successful, talented, gorgeous, fabulous, fruitful, incredible, favored, triumphant, blessed?
Wrong question, my friends.
Who are you NOT to be?
Monday, October 8, 2012
Step
Today is a good day. It's the perfect day for you to make a decision. ANY decision, in fact, would be a good.
The first step toward getting somewhere is to decide that you are not going to stay where you are.
~ Author Unknown
Decide to leave behind the things and people that negatively weigh you down.
Decide to leave behind the idea that you are not capable or strong enough to do the things you want to do.
Decide to leave behind the barriers and hurdles that contain you.
Decide to walk toward a better future.
Decide to learn, to grow, to expand your horizons.
Decide to venture outside of your comfort zone.
Decide to become a better you.
It starts with an agonizingly simple first step . . .
The first step toward getting somewhere is to decide that you are not going to stay where you are.
~ Author Unknown
Decide to leave behind the things and people that negatively weigh you down.
Decide to leave behind the idea that you are not capable or strong enough to do the things you want to do.
Decide to leave behind the barriers and hurdles that contain you.
Decide to walk toward a better future.
Decide to learn, to grow, to expand your horizons.
Decide to venture outside of your comfort zone.
Decide to become a better you.
It starts with an agonizingly simple first step . . .
Saturday, October 6, 2012
Short and Sweet
No, you silly people, I'm not talking about me!
I'm talking about this quote. For several days I have allowed the words and actions of others to interfere with my attitude, my outlook, and my endeavors. Well, that is just plain old poppycock!
"The art of being wise is knowing what to overlook."
~ William James
Today, I 'wise' up.
Last night, I spoke to someone who not only gave me a slight nudge toward this decision; he kinda steamrolled me right over a cliff. I cannot be angry with you, for you have forced me to realize how weak I have been in permitting ANYone else to sway me. I actually thank you!
And so, today, I being to 'overlook'.
Overlook the comments, the mocking, the fibs, the belittling, the foul-mouthed, the evil, the hurtful, the misunderstanding, the self-centered, the guilt, the disingenuous, the selfish, and so on. I will focus on the kind-hearted goodness of the graced and blessed folks that I know and love! That is where the happiness is.
I choose to be happy!
I'm talking about this quote. For several days I have allowed the words and actions of others to interfere with my attitude, my outlook, and my endeavors. Well, that is just plain old poppycock!
"The art of being wise is knowing what to overlook."
~ William James
Today, I 'wise' up.
Last night, I spoke to someone who not only gave me a slight nudge toward this decision; he kinda steamrolled me right over a cliff. I cannot be angry with you, for you have forced me to realize how weak I have been in permitting ANYone else to sway me. I actually thank you!
And so, today, I being to 'overlook'.
Overlook the comments, the mocking, the fibs, the belittling, the foul-mouthed, the evil, the hurtful, the misunderstanding, the self-centered, the guilt, the disingenuous, the selfish, and so on. I will focus on the kind-hearted goodness of the graced and blessed folks that I know and love! That is where the happiness is.
I choose to be happy!
Friday, October 5, 2012
Emotion
'Life without emotion is like an engine without fuel.'
~ Mary Astor
I fully concur with this statement to some degree. One needs emotion to prompt a passion, to evoke a relationship, and to fully live your life.
Sometimes, however, too much emotion can actually skew your passions, your relationships, and your life. Too much zeal can scare folks away from you. Too much emphatical behavior sends friends running in the other direction. Too much intensity drives the audience to a distance.
Yesterday, I spoke of 'opinions' and someone responded that it's about 'respect' (thank you, Winnie). You hit the nail on the head.
In regard to politics, why would one candidate be lying and hateful and full of incorrect statements and the other be angelic and love-filled and dead-on in all their statements. Do any of you really believe that? Yikes!
In regard to religion, we are each led down whatever path we choose. My decision is my decision - doesn't make me right or wrong or better or worse than any other person. It makes me . . . ME! I pray that whatever decision YOU make leads you where you want to be. I pray that when your days are over, you end up in a place I know I will reside in. And that is MY choice.
You can be emphatic and zealous about what you believe in. That is raw emotion in its finest; but it does NOT give you the right or entitle you to belittle or degrade another human being. You may state your opinion, but when you do, you best be ready to hear a difference of opinion. You don't have to like it or respond to it, but you have opened that door so you should readily accept visitors. Keep your emotions in check!
Remember that we are each entitled to our opinions and our emotions, but we would be much better off, as a societal whole, if we RESPECTED that! Use your emotions for good things and fair things and decent things. Belittling someone does not make you any more correct . . . or INCORRECT . . . in your own beliefs.
Thank you . . . and have a good day!
~ Mary Astor
I fully concur with this statement to some degree. One needs emotion to prompt a passion, to evoke a relationship, and to fully live your life.
Sometimes, however, too much emotion can actually skew your passions, your relationships, and your life. Too much zeal can scare folks away from you. Too much emphatical behavior sends friends running in the other direction. Too much intensity drives the audience to a distance.
Yesterday, I spoke of 'opinions' and someone responded that it's about 'respect' (thank you, Winnie). You hit the nail on the head.
In regard to politics, why would one candidate be lying and hateful and full of incorrect statements and the other be angelic and love-filled and dead-on in all their statements. Do any of you really believe that? Yikes!
In regard to religion, we are each led down whatever path we choose. My decision is my decision - doesn't make me right or wrong or better or worse than any other person. It makes me . . . ME! I pray that whatever decision YOU make leads you where you want to be. I pray that when your days are over, you end up in a place I know I will reside in. And that is MY choice.
You can be emphatic and zealous about what you believe in. That is raw emotion in its finest; but it does NOT give you the right or entitle you to belittle or degrade another human being. You may state your opinion, but when you do, you best be ready to hear a difference of opinion. You don't have to like it or respond to it, but you have opened that door so you should readily accept visitors. Keep your emotions in check!
Remember that we are each entitled to our opinions and our emotions, but we would be much better off, as a societal whole, if we RESPECTED that! Use your emotions for good things and fair things and decent things. Belittling someone does not make you any more correct . . . or INCORRECT . . . in your own beliefs.
Thank you . . . and have a good day!
Thursday, October 4, 2012
Opinions
Opinions are wonderful things.
They can be as diverse as oil and vinegar; black and white; or sugar and spice. They help to shape good conversation and meaningful change. They can be pursued with vim and vigor or a quiet fortitude. They can even be kept quiet and to one's self. They are very personal things. They too, unfortunately, can be crammed at you from every angle known to man and then a few more by master mathematician-types.
What you need to remember is that YOUR opinion matters!
What you think matters!
What you believe matters!
The hard lesson to learn is that the person to whom you're speaking is provided those same opportunities.
Their opinion matters.
What they think matters.
What they believe matters.
You cannot change my opinion by telling me I'm wrong any more than trying to make me believe the sky is white at night. Conversely, I cannot change yours. This is what makes the world such a wonderful place. If we all believed the same things, we'd live in Stepford. No thanks!
Civil communication is important. Stand your ground and speak your heart, but don't tell me I'm wrong. If nothing else, I am entitled to my own opinion!
This earth could stand for us to be a little more courteous, polite, and respectful.
At least that's my opinion . . .
They can be as diverse as oil and vinegar; black and white; or sugar and spice. They help to shape good conversation and meaningful change. They can be pursued with vim and vigor or a quiet fortitude. They can even be kept quiet and to one's self. They are very personal things. They too, unfortunately, can be crammed at you from every angle known to man and then a few more by master mathematician-types.
What you need to remember is that YOUR opinion matters!
What you think matters!
What you believe matters!
The hard lesson to learn is that the person to whom you're speaking is provided those same opportunities.
Their opinion matters.
What they think matters.
What they believe matters.
You cannot change my opinion by telling me I'm wrong any more than trying to make me believe the sky is white at night. Conversely, I cannot change yours. This is what makes the world such a wonderful place. If we all believed the same things, we'd live in Stepford. No thanks!
Civil communication is important. Stand your ground and speak your heart, but don't tell me I'm wrong. If nothing else, I am entitled to my own opinion!
This earth could stand for us to be a little more courteous, polite, and respectful.
At least that's my opinion . . .
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Vacuums suck!
Sometimes, there is a space that cannot be filled. Some folks call it a vacuum. I call it a broken heart. A chasm that aches for something that was lost. It could be a person, or a love, or an achievement.
I have suffered many losses in my life. From the death of pets, which anyone who owns one will attest to its impact; to being dumped by someone who you thought would be your soul mate forever; to having a seriously ill child; to losing a loved one. Each trial leaves a scar, an emptyness, a grief that cannot always be consoled.
And yet . . .
When approached correctly, there can still be hope, a glimmer, a smile, a possibility of something positive.
Our first dog, Floyd, was always abused in the back yard by blue jays. As much as I miss Floyd and his one floppy ear, when those blue jays come flitting about . . . I smile. I remember all the fun we had with that pooch and the unconditional love he shared with our babies and us with him.
When my first boyfriend left me standing two miles from my house at a beautiful lake in upstate New York, I was devastated. Couldn't even fathom taking that first step toward home. But, I learned a lot about myself in those following years and now I know that things occur for a reason. What I dealt with then, allowed me to make decisions down the road, and now I am married to the most amazing man ever with two incredible children. Who knows what life might have held had I followed that first path.
In the dilemmas of having a seriously ill child ~ or two . . . you often times seem adrift in trying to find a cause, a reason, something or someone to blame; until you realize that it is a battle more of stamina, perseverance, and determination. I would not wish our experiences on my worst enemy, but I wouldn't change what happened. The relationships, experiences, and triumphs we have garnered are undeniably some of the best in our lives.
To have lost four dads, grandparents, a great niece, and my mom . . . there could be enough sorrow to last a lifetime or two. I could be angry, bitter, wallowing in sorrow, or just bouncing off the walls in a little rubber room. But I choose to take with me, not the sadness of loss, but the joy of life. I live with the thrill of life they each offered; each very differently. I take with me the love they offered. I travel with the smiles, the joys, the quips and the sillyness they gave. I miss them all, but they all dwell within me in some manner or another.
Yes, vacuums suck, but we have the option to turn it off and to take from it the things we don't want drained from us. We can be victorious and happy . . . if we choose.
I have suffered many losses in my life. From the death of pets, which anyone who owns one will attest to its impact; to being dumped by someone who you thought would be your soul mate forever; to having a seriously ill child; to losing a loved one. Each trial leaves a scar, an emptyness, a grief that cannot always be consoled.
And yet . . .
When approached correctly, there can still be hope, a glimmer, a smile, a possibility of something positive.
Our first dog, Floyd, was always abused in the back yard by blue jays. As much as I miss Floyd and his one floppy ear, when those blue jays come flitting about . . . I smile. I remember all the fun we had with that pooch and the unconditional love he shared with our babies and us with him.
When my first boyfriend left me standing two miles from my house at a beautiful lake in upstate New York, I was devastated. Couldn't even fathom taking that first step toward home. But, I learned a lot about myself in those following years and now I know that things occur for a reason. What I dealt with then, allowed me to make decisions down the road, and now I am married to the most amazing man ever with two incredible children. Who knows what life might have held had I followed that first path.
In the dilemmas of having a seriously ill child ~ or two . . . you often times seem adrift in trying to find a cause, a reason, something or someone to blame; until you realize that it is a battle more of stamina, perseverance, and determination. I would not wish our experiences on my worst enemy, but I wouldn't change what happened. The relationships, experiences, and triumphs we have garnered are undeniably some of the best in our lives.
To have lost four dads, grandparents, a great niece, and my mom . . . there could be enough sorrow to last a lifetime or two. I could be angry, bitter, wallowing in sorrow, or just bouncing off the walls in a little rubber room. But I choose to take with me, not the sadness of loss, but the joy of life. I live with the thrill of life they each offered; each very differently. I take with me the love they offered. I travel with the smiles, the joys, the quips and the sillyness they gave. I miss them all, but they all dwell within me in some manner or another.
Yes, vacuums suck, but we have the option to turn it off and to take from it the things we don't want drained from us. We can be victorious and happy . . . if we choose.
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
Smorgasbord
Anyone who knows me, knows I love to eat. Growing up in upstate New York, I was pretty much a meat and potatoes kind of gal, but my first date with my husband was at a seafood buffet bar . . . so I kind of had to change in a hurry. Since then, my tastes have become wide and varied. I will sample almost anything and just enjoy the plethora of flavors that are out there.
Akin to that train of thought, let's talk about people!
You've got your type A's, your quiet, your shy, your reserved, your loud and obnoxious, your overwhelming, your underwhelming, your sneaky, your slimey, your trustworthy, your not-so-trustworthy, your givers, your takers, your worker bees, your born leaders, your leaders who were not born but might be pushed there, your dreamers, your partiers, your systematicals, your put-your-head-down and get-it-done-ers, your lovers, your fighters, your purposefully passionate, your coolly complacent, your do-gooders, and your neigh-sayers, and on and on and on.
Now even though my appetite for some of these types of folks is bordering on nauseau, it takes all kinds to make the world go round. If we were all worker bees, who would lead? If we were all type A's, who would do the work?
I find it most interesting that all these flavors of folks come together to create a smorgasbord of incredible feaasting in a worldly delicacy. It's simply delicious!
Akin to that train of thought, let's talk about people!
You've got your type A's, your quiet, your shy, your reserved, your loud and obnoxious, your overwhelming, your underwhelming, your sneaky, your slimey, your trustworthy, your not-so-trustworthy, your givers, your takers, your worker bees, your born leaders, your leaders who were not born but might be pushed there, your dreamers, your partiers, your systematicals, your put-your-head-down and get-it-done-ers, your lovers, your fighters, your purposefully passionate, your coolly complacent, your do-gooders, and your neigh-sayers, and on and on and on.
Now even though my appetite for some of these types of folks is bordering on nauseau, it takes all kinds to make the world go round. If we were all worker bees, who would lead? If we were all type A's, who would do the work?
I find it most interesting that all these flavors of folks come together to create a smorgasbord of incredible feaasting in a worldly delicacy. It's simply delicious!
Monday, October 1, 2012
Presence Presents!
When we are younger and there is a birthday, or perhaps during the Holidays, there is an enthusiasm that comes with the delivering of presents. We marvel at the multitude or we shriek in sheer delight at the 'perfect' gift that we were truly hoping for. We tend to tear into things with an unbridled eagerness that sheds a joyous light at that moment.
As we age, we become more conscious of the fact that the gifts we receive have, most of the time, come with great thought and we revel in the notion that someone took the time and effort to truly think about us and our likes. We even, at times, save the wrapping paper. Our enthusiasm and eagerness hasn't diminished, it has simply shifted into more gracious and appreciative actions.
Older still and our wishes for gifts sometimes even stray toward giving to others on our behalf. We have learned the unselfish blessing of doing right by others instead of wanting things for ourselves. I must admit, I haven't gotten there yet, but I will. With healthy children and a best friend for a spouse, food in my fridge, and a couple of dollars in the bank . . . I am truly not in need of tangible treats for myself.
But . . . my friends . . . presents are not always about things in boxes, or wrapped with pretty paper, or adorned with fancy bows. I already got a present today . . . and it's only 8 am. I woke up. I have been allowed to walk steadfast into another day with the opportunity to make a difference, to do a good deed, to positively impact the life of another person. What an amazing gift!
The birds were all chirpy and singing when I let my beloved pooch out. The air was warm and the sky was blue. I sat in the quiet while Max did whatever he does in the back yard. I am blessed with the ability to read and to write and offer kind ~ and maybe even inspirational ~ words to others. It's like Christmas every day!
Today, I hope that you take note of the gifts that are poured at your feet. Unwrap them with that childlike fervor that brings a smile to everyone's face around you. That zeal is contagious.
Make your presence another's presents!
As we age, we become more conscious of the fact that the gifts we receive have, most of the time, come with great thought and we revel in the notion that someone took the time and effort to truly think about us and our likes. We even, at times, save the wrapping paper. Our enthusiasm and eagerness hasn't diminished, it has simply shifted into more gracious and appreciative actions.
Older still and our wishes for gifts sometimes even stray toward giving to others on our behalf. We have learned the unselfish blessing of doing right by others instead of wanting things for ourselves. I must admit, I haven't gotten there yet, but I will. With healthy children and a best friend for a spouse, food in my fridge, and a couple of dollars in the bank . . . I am truly not in need of tangible treats for myself.
But . . . my friends . . . presents are not always about things in boxes, or wrapped with pretty paper, or adorned with fancy bows. I already got a present today . . . and it's only 8 am. I woke up. I have been allowed to walk steadfast into another day with the opportunity to make a difference, to do a good deed, to positively impact the life of another person. What an amazing gift!
The birds were all chirpy and singing when I let my beloved pooch out. The air was warm and the sky was blue. I sat in the quiet while Max did whatever he does in the back yard. I am blessed with the ability to read and to write and offer kind ~ and maybe even inspirational ~ words to others. It's like Christmas every day!
Today, I hope that you take note of the gifts that are poured at your feet. Unwrap them with that childlike fervor that brings a smile to everyone's face around you. That zeal is contagious.
Make your presence another's presents!
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