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!