On The Brink

Happy New Year's Eve!


Today is National Make Up Your Mind Day!
That is motivation to prep yourself for the year ahead.


Make Your Mind Up that 2015 will be a banner year.
Make Your Mind Up that 2015 will be a bold year.
Make Your Mind Up that you will stand up to your fears.
Make Your Mind Up that you will speak when necessary.
Make Your Mind Up that you will explore new territories.
Make Your Mind Up to be a little better that you were this year.
Make Your Mind Up to be generous and loving and kind.
Make Your Mind Up that you deserve what you work for.


The new year is yours to mold.
Create something extraordinary!

Almost There

Just two more days and 2014 will be nothing but a memory.
What kind of memory will it be for you?
Mine contains great loss.
I put down my 13 year old black Lab, Max.
I was betrayed by someone I thought was a good friend.
I said goodbye to my baby brother, Skip.
Tremendous holes are left.
I also learned that I am terribly tenacious.
I am resilient and persistent and courageous.
I can stand up to what ails me, and whether things change or not,
I've made my peace with it.
Your 2014 is filled with your own trials and tribulations.
To each of us, our experiences are so grandiose.
We need to remember that we each are fighting what seems like
incredible battles to us.
We are each celebrating unfathomable victories.
We need to realize each lesson, good or bad,
for ourselves and in each other.
You're almost there.
You can do this!

It's a Good Day

It's a Good Day
to have a Good Day!


The day is yours.
Make it what you will.
How other people treat you is their business.
How you react is yours.
Don't become so bogged down by work
that you forget to marvel at the beauty that surrounds you.
There is goodness everywhere.
Enjoy it!
Absorb it!
Become its mirror!


Have a Good Day!

2015

Now is when folks are diligently weighing in on what grand achievement
they will realize in the coming year.
They will buy a brand new car.
They will lose fifty pounds.
They will become the CEO of their company.
And those would all be magnificent.


But . . .


How about we start with something much more important
and incomprehensibly easier?!


Be nice.
Be pleasant.
Be happy.
Be joyful.
Be helpful.
Be kind.
Be giving.
Be generous.
Be loving.


If you achieve only half those things,
you will have improved your world ten-fold.
Enjoy your New Year!

Think On This

From Phillips Brooks:


How silently,
how silently
the wondrous gift is given
So God imparts
to human hearts
the wonders
of His heaven.


Soak it in and enjoy the warmth!

Gifts

In the next day or two, there will be piles of ribbons,
shredded wrapping paper, crumbled up bags and
wonderful memories of gifts received.


My focus, today, is not on those store-bought trinkets.
I want you to think today, of the gifts you've received through the whole last year.


Gifts of people!


The idiots who cut you off in traffic.
The backstabbers who lied and betrayed you.
The gossipers who talked smack.
These 'Gifts' taught you patience and perseverance.
These 'Gifts' gave you strength and tenacity.
These 'Gifts' brought you visual clarity of what you
do not want to be or behave like.


The beautiful souls who raise you up.
The generous angels who grace your every day.
The supportive folks who listen and love you continuously.
The kind strangers who carry hope in a smile.
These 'Gifts' taught you there is goodness out there.
These 'Gifts' gave you self-confidence and joy.
These 'Gifts' assured you it's ok to be you.
These 'Gifts' lightened your days and filled your heart with love.


Gifts are what you make of them.
Filter and find the grace in each.
People are a joy to unwrap and discover.
Enjoy your holidays and ALL of your 'Gifts'!


Peace!

A new outfit for the holidays?

From an older, established, eclectic store called Colossians . . .


"You must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy,
kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.
You must take allowance for each other's faults
and forgive the person who offends you.
Remember, the Lord forgave you,
so you must forgive others.
And the most important piece of clothing you must wear
is LOVE.
Love is what binds us all together in perfect harmony.
And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts.
For as members of one body
you are all called to live in peace."

A Wonder-full Gift

God will never leave you empty.
He will replace everything you lost.
If He asks you to put something down,
it's because He wants you to pick up something greater.
If He asks you to say goodbye,
it's because He wants you to receive something grander.
Loss is not final.
It is a new beginning.

Good Stuff

"The great man is he
who does not lose his childlike heart."
~ Mencius


Follow the laughter.
Join the laughter.
Be the laughter.

Check-Up

It's time for a check-up to ensure the best health possible.


I hope you have:


eyes that see the best in people,
a heart that forgives the worst,
a mind that forgets the bad,
and a soul that never loses faith in God.


Good health!
Much love!

Hmmm

"Think like a man of action,
act like a man of thought."


~ Henri-Louis Bergson

A Christmas Ch-Angel

And so, back to this blog's roots . . .
It is time for a Christmas Ch-Angel.


A beautiful ray of light who bounced into my life last year
and just refused to ever dim.
No matter what was thrown at her.
She is a big giant ball of goofiness that keeps me laughing,
keeps me sane,
keeps me singing,
keeps me from going to prison,
keeps me focused on the positive.


I must admit I was a bit timid to welcome her
because of recent painful hurts, backstabbing, and heartaches.
But . . . like a Labrador puppy, she just keeps sitting there,
tail a'waggin',
waiting to play,
and loving me no matter what.


It is these dear, genuine, sincere type folks that truly renew my faith in mankind.
Thank you Ch-Angel Les . . .
I am truly blessed by your presence and your friendship!

Pot Luck Today . . .

"Do all the good you can.
By all the means you can.
In all the ways you can.
In all the places you can.
At all the times you can.
To all the people you can.
As long as ever you can."
~ John Wesley


"I make the most of all that comes
and the least of all that goes."
~ Sara Teasdale


So, in summary, remember that YOU CAN make a difference.
Let go of the drama and the nonsense and the things that really don't matter.
And . . . if all that fails, remember that today is


National Chocolate Covered Anything Day

YOURSELF

By Alan Alda  (one of my favorites!)


Be brave enough to live creatively.
The creative is the place where no one else has ever been.
You have to leave the city of your comfort
and go into the wilderness of your intuition.
You can't get there by bus,
only by hard work,
risking,
and by not quite knowing what you're doing.
What you'll discover will be wonderful:


YOURSELF!

Simplistic Perfection

The heart that gives,
gathers.


~ Marianne Moore

Christmas Cheer

"The best way to spread Christmas cheer,
is singing loud for all to hear."


Can you tell I just saw Elf?
I just love that movie.
Such innocence in a giant goofball of a man.


Grab a hold of some of that innocence.
Put a little syrup on your s'ghetti.
Compliment others.
Feel free to speak what you believe.
Jump on a bed.
Stay away from radiators and jack-in-the-boxes.
Marvel at the lights.
Cut a few paper snowflakes.


And Sing!

Be Silly

If laughter is the best medicine,
then I'd definite prescribe for you today
to be a little silly.


Whether you're putting your name on things at work,
forcing a smile instead of physically injuring folks,
enforcing a no nimrod zone,
putting on your best English accent to call for help,
or just making yourself laugh . . .
it lightens your mood,
lifts your spirits,
and improves the immediate area around you.


Today . . .
Go Be Silly!

Peace

Peace is a beautiful word.
To me, it conjures visions of doves and harps and community.
Peace is not one-sided or bias.
It can blanket each and every one of us,
if we teach it,
learn it,
live it.
We must be responsible for our thoughts and our actions.
When those thoughts and actions are focused on peace,
then peace will be the end result.


Today, to you, . . . PEACE!

Your 'List'

This has been around for a bit,
but I thought I would share it.
I really like it . . .


First Holiday To-Do List


1.  Buy Presents
2. Wrap Gifts
3. Send Gifts
4. Shop for Food
5. Make Cookies.
6. See the Lights.


REVISED Holiday To-Do List


1. Be Present
2. Wrap Someone in a Hug
3. Send Peace
4. Donate Food
5. Make Love
6. Be the Light


It makes a difference.
Go . . . make a difference.

Love

There is no time like the present
to show a little love.


Give a hug.
Lend a hand.
Share a smile.
Offer your heart.


Tomorrow is promised to no one.
Leave it all here.
Your love is an extraordinary gift.
Give it generously.

Change Your Viewpoint

The holidays can really get on your nerves.
The stores start playing Christmas music before Halloween.
You are bombarded with sales flyers and media ads.
(It's almost worse than election time!)
Folks are fighting to get the last best toy.
Tempers are short and patience is thin.
But . . .
Try this if you are feeling a bit beaten by the blitz.


Change Your Viewpoint


Watch a child's eyes.
See the sheer, unfiltered excitement as they play.
Share the utter joy at their opportunity to talk to Santa.
Really listen to the lyrics of some of those Christmas songs.
Understand what giving a few dollars to a family in need can do.
Just sit and enjoy the lights somewhere.
Realize the real Reason for the Season.


Don't let the coupon-crazed, toy-terrorists get you down.
You're in charge of your own mood.
Change your viewpoint.
Make it magical!

Precious

Precious are those moments of growing up in a tight-knit family.
Precious are the memories I will always have of that.
Precious are the times I shared dating my best friend who became my husband.
Precious are the moments of creating new and incredible lives.
Precious are the opportunities to share the love you have.
Precious are the chances to give of yourself.
Precious are the instances given to make the world a little better.


Go and seize whatever is precious to you!

A little bolder

I am a big advocate of random acts of kindness
and paying forward any kindnesses you receive.
I offer suggestions frequently about leaving money
for the person behind you at Starbucks, in the grocery store, or wherever.
Yesterday, though, I switched it up.
I was at 'my Publix'. They know me well there.
I ran into one of my favorite employees.
She was done with her shift and was purchasing a few items.
She got in line ahead of me.
She put her items up, put up the separator, and helped me
take my items out of my cart and put them on the register.
I caught the cashier's eye and mouthed, "Put hers on mine."
Because I've done this numerous time with the person behind me,
she knew exactly what I wanted.
My buddy, the employee, was a little shocked but most appreciative.
It was surely quite nice to face the recipient and tell her she deserved it.
What will YOU do today to be . . . a little bolder?

Special You

I tell you all the time
how very special, unique and amazing you are.
I impress upon you how important and vital you are.
Although you might think I'm speaking directly to YOU,
I'm referring to mankind.
We each have within us such incredible talents to share,
beliefs to profess,
opportunities to pursue,
and beauty to display.
Each one of us holds a thread in this tapestry called life.
When one thread breaks or is lost,
there is an emptiness - an unfinished story.
Let's try to remember we know not of another's struggles.
Let's try to remember that precious golden rule.
Let's try to remember that we should respect one another.
Let's try to remember that we should be kind.
Let's try to remember that every life is precious.
Every story needs to be told.
Be Special You!

Giving Tuesday

Today is a national philanthropic sort of day in which
one gives what one is able to a cause that is near and dear to their heart.
Although I have a select few arenas that I focus my passions on,
I realize that other folks have their own passions to which they give.
There is no right or wrong place to donate.
I would urge you to check on what percentage of your donation goes to your charity,
but otherwise . . . give freely and frivolously.


Giving is not only a tremendous blessing to the organization you choose;
it is a glorious gift unto your own beautiful self.
It also sets a wonderful example for the folks around you to do the same.
And those blessings always seem to flow back to you in some form or fashion.


Have a wonderfully giving day.
Be generous.
Be gracious.
Be good.

Simple

In the hurried insanity that has become the Christmas season,
take a moment to remember why we celebrate the holiday.
It is not about the boxes.
It is not about the bags.
It is not about the ribbons.
It is not about the decorations.
It is not about the light displays.


I have a beautiful friend who posted a photo of her Christmas tree
and beneath it she typed, "Simple, but I like it."


That is as it should be.
She captured, in one little photo and sentence,
what we all need to learn.


Keep it simple this season.
Enjoy the music.
Enjoy the meaning.
Enjoy your family and friends.
Enjoy the Reason for this Season.


God bless and Merry Christmas.
Have a simple day.

No day wasted

No day is wasted
in which I touch another person's life
in any positive, meaningful way.
And so it is that I enrich my days
by giving something of myself
whether through a warm smile,
a kind word,
a sympathetic ear,
a gentle embrace,
or a helping hand.


Don't waste your day!

Light

No light that was born in love
can ever be extinguished.


~ Dr. Darcie D. Sims


Whatever you have loved deeply will always remain with you.
There is no event or length of time that can wipe clean the memory of that gift.
Absorb it.
Spread the cheer it's given you.


Go light the day.

Give Thanks

Today, and every day, give thanks.


For random acts that become divine intervention.
For hugs that seem to hold you together.
For laughter that makes your face hurt.
For family - by blood or by grace.
For another day - to do the right thing.


Give Thanks!

Thankful

I cannot begin to explain how thankful I am.


I may appear to have two beautiful children,
but they each have fought tooth and nail to get to where they are now.
They faced challenges no child should face.


I may appear to have an incredible marriage.
It has been frayed and torn and shattered by the stress of sick kids
and by the loss of loved ones.
It has survived and only grown stronger and deeper.


I may appear to be a wonderfully happy and go-lucky person.
I have been trampled and battered and tested more times than I can count.
My heart has ached and been broken repeatedly.
But I get up and proceed . . . stronger every time.


I am thankful for resilience.
I am thankful for tenacity.
I am thankful for faith.
I am thankful for blessings.
I am thankful for knowing that no matter what bothers me,
"this too shall pass".
I am thankful for family and friends,
for laughter and love.


What are YOU thankful for?

RFK

No explanation or embellishment necessary . . .


Few will have the greatness to bend history,
but each of us can work to change a small portion of the events,
and then the total - all of these acts -
will be written in the history of this generation.
It is from numberless diverse acts of courage and belief
that human history is shaped.
Each time a man stands up for an ideal,
or acts to improve the lot of others,
or strikes out against injustice,
he sends forth a tiny ripple of hope,
and crossing each from a million different centers of energy
and daring those ripples to build a current
which can sweep down the mightiest walls
of oppression and resistance.

Class

Ann Lander provided this tidbit.
It is what I try to aspire to each day.


Class is an aura of confidence
that is being sure without being cocky.
Class has nothing to do with money.
Class never runs scared.
It is self-discipline and self-knowledge.
It is the sure footedness that comes
with having proved you can meet life.

Wow!

I happened upon a clip of Jim Carey speaking at a graduation.
Although his entire recorded speech was rather inspirational and very 'Jim Carey-esque',
there was one line that just came right out of the computer and bopped me in the head.
You know, that 'Aha!' moment.
The light bulb goes on!
The choir of Angels breaks into song kind of moment . . .


The effect you have on others
is the most valuable currency there is.


Short.
Sweet.
Perfect.
Brilliant!

Core

Since the holidays are just around the corner, close your eyes and let me paint you a picture . . .


Christmas morning and the children come to the tree.
Eyes lit up like saucers at what greets them.
Lights and ribbons and ornaments and magic.
Beneath the tree, boxes and bags of every size and shape.
Big ones, tiny ones, odd-shaped.
Large bags, little bags, lumpy bags.
Foil wrapping paper, matte wrapping paper, plain brown bag wrapping paper,
funnies wrapping paper, printed wrapping paper.
Shiny, sparkly, glittering amidst the twinkling Christmas lights.
It is quite a sight.
Then the unwrapping begins.
And what is inside every single one of those boxes and bags and packages?
What makes up the core of every gift?


LOVE!


Now, let me paint you another picture . . .


On any given day, as you run around in circles through your own daily insanity,
what do you see?
You see gifts!
Wrapped in brown skin, yellow skin, white skin, black skin, tan skin.
Some are big and some are tiny.
Some are flashy and some are meek.
Some are lumpy and some are massive.
And what is inside every single one of those gifts that you see?
What makes up the core of every person?


LOVE


Learn it. Live it. Teach it.

Your Choice

"Ruin and Recovery are Both from Within."


What choice will you make.
Life sometimes hands us obstacles,
hurdles,
hardships,
trials,
tribulations,
tests.
Reaction is everything.


It's your choice.

Kindness

I've been in customer service most of my life.
Nearly half a century of pleasing other people.
What I find most interesting is that I do not tire of it.


In speaking with a guest yesterday,
the conversation went from clothing sizes, to telephones,
to work, to money, and then to life.
His lesson for me was to find something I like to do and do it really well.
It is never good to trudge through life.
I explained to him that, no matter my title, I've always been in customer service.
He said, "No wonder you're so good at it. You're very personable and easy to talk to."


Now, to some, that's just a sentence.
To others, that might be a quick quip to finish a conversation.
To me, it meant the world.
We are sent Ch-Angels when we need them most.
Little gifts in our day that lift us up, dust us off, and slap a smile on our face.


Thank you SO much Mr. Veteran, looking for a white undershirt,
for taking a moment out of your day, to add a little kindness to mine.


What will your kindness be today?

Speak!

Speak!


You have a voice for a reason.
You have been given audibility for a purpose.
Choose your words carefully.
Try to respond instead of react.
But Speak!


Without a voice,
the injustices continue.
Without a voice,
poor behaviors prevail.
Without a voice,
wrongs will not be righted.


Speak!

Happy and Free

I like Buddha . . .


In our lives, change is unavoidable, loss is unavoidable.
In the adaptability and ease with which we experience change,
lies our happiness and freedom.


It takes a moment for that to sink in.
Read it again.


Be happy and free!

Make a Joyful Noise

No matter your circumstance,
No matter your obstacle,
No matter your challenge,
Make a Joyful Noise.


Don't slather me in your political angst.
Don't bog me down in your emotional woes.
Don't hurl your insecurities at me like stones.


Be happy to see a new day.
Be happy to have another chance.
Be happy to try to improve yourself.
You have today.
It is a privilege denied to many.


Make a Joyful Noise!

Philanthropy

One of my most favorite words.
It is defined as:


altruistic concern for human welfare and advancement, usually manifested by donations
of money, property, or work to needy persons
the practice of performing charitable or benevolent actions
love of mankind in general


It is celebrated as a National Day tomorrow, November 15th.
We are all able to do something.
You need not be wealthy.
You don't have to go hungry.
But there is SOMETHING you can do for someone else tomorrow.


Give money if you are able.
Give time if you have it.
Giving of yourself is just the best.


Enjoy the day and what it can do for others.
And, in doing for others, you do wonders for yourself.

Pink Bunny Syndrome

Life is a constant whirlwind of ups and downs, trials and triumphs,
victories and failures, positives and negatives.
There is always a time to laugh and a time to cry.
A time to mourn and a time to rejoice.
When you are faced with what you might perceive to be insurmountable odds,
do not dwell on that dark cloud.
Instead, focus on the truth that this too shall pass.
The sun will shine again.
You may be in a dark place, but the light of a single candle can illuminate your world.
You need to contract the Pink Bunny Syndrome.
You must keep going, and going, and going, and going . . .

World Kindness Day Eve

As it is World Kindness Day Eve . . .
let's all get into the swing of things
with some random acts of kindness today.


Yesterday, I got special visits from not one, but TWO amazing friends.
I got home and had a heartfelt card from a very integral person in my life.
I had a customer tell me she was happy she got me because I looked happy.
I walked another customer all through men's and then into jammies. She was so happy she cried.


It doesn't take much to touch a person's heart.
You don't have to be rich.
You don't have to perform some grand gesture.
You simply have to care.


Today . . . go care.

Sacrifice

Sacrifice is defined as:


to surrender or give up, or permit injury or disadvantage to, for the sake of something else


What has been surrendered or given up - is family, health and life.
The 'something else' - is YOU and your freedoms.


Find a Veteran today and . . .
Thank them for their efforts.
Thank them for their time.
Thank them for their injuries.
Thank them for their stories.
Thank them for their strength.
Thank them for their courage.
Thank them for their bravery.
Thank them for their sacrifice.


They are a bold and beautiful breed of people that will sacrifice themselves for another
without want of accolade or acknowledgement.


God bless 'em!

An Assignment

With the recent loss of my brother, of course thoughts turn to other losses.
We all wish there was more time, another conversation, another hug, another lunch, etc.
Here is a proposal for a little assignment for you . . .


Maybe not today, but some time in your near future,
sit down and take out some paper and a pen.
No emails, no texts, no tweets, or anything else like that.
Write a letter to someone who has truly made a difference to you.
It could be a teacher, an old friend, a relative, a co-worker.
Let them know how they have touched you and how much you appreciate them.
You will find great joy in reliving a few old memories.
You will also, however, deliver great joy when an unsuspecting someone receives that letter.
There is no reason ~ other than to express your thanks . . . while you can.
Believe me, it is a beautiful effort for the writer and a beautiful gift for the recipient.


Now . . . go do your homework!

110%

No matter the task, no matter the obstacle ~
always give it 110%.
If you are cleaning your room . . .
make it the cleanest room ever.
If you are doing yard work . . .
make it the best looking yard in the neighborhood.
If you are raising awareness about something . . .
talk about it with absolutely everyone you meet.
If you are gathering funds for a cause . . .
ask every single person you see for a penny, a nickel, a dollar,
or to share the ask with their friends.
If you are standing up for a purpose . . .
educate and arm yourself to the hilt.
If you are in love . . .
love with absolutely everything that you are.


What is the point of anything less than all you have?

The Best Medicine

Laughter!


It truly is the best medicine.
For a long while I had built insulating walls around myself.
I had thought it protection from pain and hurt,
but it was only confining and debilitating.
In truly contemplating what I know the folks I love the most enjoy,
I realized that you cannot hide from the hurt.
You cannot protect yourself from the crazies.
They are out there . . . in force.
You simply need to realize that their behavior and actions
are their burdens to carry.
How you react is yours.
I was my happiest when I was singing and playing and laughing.
And so . . .
I am singing
and playing
and laughing.


It is the best medicine.
Be well today.
Laugh.

Work

Expounding on my very simple "Happy or Crappy" daily choice,
Carlos Castaneda coined it in another manner.
Sometimes, we just need a different viewpoint to see that same answer.
I really like his version, too.


"We either make ourselves miserable,
or we make ourselves strong.
The amount of work is the same."


Makes all kinds of sense to me.
Which one are you working toward?

Make a Pearl

The most extraordinary thing about the oyster is this,
irritations get into the shell and,
when he cannot get rid of them,
he uses the irritations to do the loveliest thing an oyster ever has the chance to do.


If there are irritations in your lives today,
there is only one option . . .


Make a Pearl

Sweet Dreams

Today, we say our final farewells to my brother, Skip.
As much as my heart hurts, I have tried to give you a little insight
into what we shared and, in doing so . . . I found smiles.
You may not understand it all, but enjoy it.


Sweet Dreams


Any memory of Skippy brings a smile to my face
And therein lies his legacy; what he left strewn about the place
My little baby brother, who towered high above
Left a trail of laughter through a garden of his love
My earliest recollections begin with Pop-Pop & Nana-Tip
Climbing atop the factory, sharing a NY skyline with Skip
And travelling there was interesting; 9 people and a dog without fidge
And always singing that stupid song, "George Washington Washington Bridge"
Trestle treks in Rosendale, woodsy hikes and quiet rests
Stealing change from everywhere for Saturday night parent-free candy fests
Lazy days grouped on the porch where Skip endured a few Shepherd bites
Saturday morning wrestling; tag team siblings and sometimes title fights
Countless Halloweens and Christmases galore
I cry because he's missing now, I'll go remember more
Secret silly handshakes; Abbott and Costello
Secret presents in my car from a most amazing fellow
Ferris Beuller's Day Off; no guard rail's safe from Crash
Mr. Compost gardening guy, "I'll recycle all the trash."
Monty Python's Life of Brian. Comedy bold and blunt
Was in the People's Front of Judea or the Judean People's Front?
Small raffia attachments; the Roman soldiers "We found this spoon."
"Piss off. I'm not the Messiah." Just whistle a happy tune.
History of the World; Hump or Death with Madeline Kahn
Wacky weedus; double time harch; the jig is up . . . and gone
Christmas movies for my babies; donations from knee deep in sand
Wherever anyone needed help, there was Skippy's eager hand
A veteran with character. A man with a heart of gold
Your absence is unbearable - you were denied of growing old
And though my heart does ache; there's a hole Skip used to fill
I know he's gone in the physical sense, but I'm certain he dwells there still
Skip just wanted laughter and the company of others
He reveled in his family's love; his small army of sisters and brothers
His wit was quite unparalleled, He sure did like to rib
And faced with positive or negative, his response was always "Hib!"
My final text with him is treasured; cemented in my heart it seems
Your words to me now echoed back, I love you Skip ~ "Sweet Dreams!"

Word Breakfast

Man is never so tall as when he kneels before God ~
never so great as when he humbles himself before God.
And the man who kneels to God can stand up to anything.


~  Isaiah 9:6-7 NLT


I can do everything with the help of Christ
who gives me the strength I need.


~  Philippians 4:13 NLT


Just thought that maybe some folks,
including me,
might need to read this today.

Don't be scared

Boo!
It's Halloween.
Don't be scared.


The ghosts and goblins,
princesses and pirates,
minions and munchkins
that come to your door are only looking for candy.


Enjoy the evening in all its silliness.
Have a frightfully, freakishly fun evening.

Do Nothing

With the holiday season fast approaching,
and bringing with it all its ensuing insanity,
I would urge you to please just take a moment . . .


and do nothing.


Don't fret about Christmas cards.
Don't worry about buying gifts.
Don't worry about visiting every soul you ever knew.
Don't get crazed with decorating every nook and cranny.
Don't get entangled in every vendor's mad dash for cash.
Don't run yourself so ragged that you can't remember what day it is.


Do NOTHING.


Take an extra few minutes and enjoy your morning coffee.
Drive along the water on your way home and soak in its serenity.
Drive through the woods and breathe in all its beauty.
Meet a friend and enjoy, really enjoy, their company.
Listen to the birds, or the waves, or the wind, or the quiet.


Stop and do nothing.

With You Still

A beautiful prayer sent by a beautiful friend
that just really touched me on many levels.
I think it will touch many others as well.
Thanks, my Ch-Angel WB! 




I give you this one thought to keep
I am with you still I do not sleep,
I am a thousand winds that blow,
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain,
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush,
I am the swift uplifting rush
of quiet birds in circled flight,
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not think of me as gone,
I am with you still in each new dawn.

For Sure

My tears continue,
but I am reminded repeatedly
about how much Skippy just like to laugh
and enjoy the world around him.
So . . . in honor of Skippy . . .


Today is National Chocolate Day!
If he were here and read this,
he'd be the first person at my door
with a 10 pound Hershey bar.
For Sure!


Today . . . in honor of Skippy . . .
no matter your diet (unless you're allergic or diabetic),
please . . . go enjoy a little chocolate.
It makes your heart happy.
It makes you smile.
It is terribly difficult to be sad while eating chocolate.


For Sure!

Time for a Ch-Angel

A Ch-Angel for sure . . . Skippy!


A gentle giant.
My 'little' brother, who towered above me, on so many levels.
We grew up together.
We were silly together.
He was a brilliant mind, in a simple human.
He merely wanted love and to give love.
He loved to laugh with a remarkable wit.
He loved to give and gave whenever he was able.
One of my teariest memories of Ch-Angel Skip was while doing the
All Children's Hospital Telethon and hearing that Al Herrmann is donating
money from Afghanistan. What an absolute gem!
I am privileged to have shared so much with him.
Anyone who spent any time with him knows the joy he spread.
I am honored to have been his little big sister.
Fear your demons no more, sweet brother.
Rest in peace and know you're so very loved.
Thanks for all you've done and been.
Fly home, Angel!
xo

Fighting Demons

We all have demons.
Some of us learn to fend them off better than others.
Sadly, some of us do not.


Whatever your demon,
know that you don't ever have to fight alone.
Phone a friend.
Visit family.
Talk to God.
If all else fails, email me!
I will be here - to listen, to console, to advise if you choose, to love.


Don't let your demons win.
Please.
You are far too valuable in this world.

Lunch?

There is a question often asked that if you could have lunch with anyone, living or passed, who would it be and why?


My answer, for the past several years, has been my mom.


I'm sure I could learn from great historical figures.
I'm sure I could educate myself from philosophers and brilliant minds from long ago.
I bet I could lose myself in a world of art and music and literature from past masters of their crafts.
I bet I could find several realms of serenity sitting with Gandhi or Buddha.


And yet, I'd do just about anything for just one more game of Scrabble.
Just to hear her laughter, or see that crooked, impish grin.
One more "You Bet!" or "Next!"
Another family band night would be amazing.
I'd love to just chat one more time, about nothing important. Just chat.
I'd even settle for just sitting quietly next to one another.
Just to feel her close to me one more time.
Lunch?
I'm sure it would be dessert!


Who would you want lunch with?

Inspiration

What inspires you?


Is it a goal?
An event?
An obstacle?
A dream?
A person?
A passion?


Find what inspires you and use it as fuel to fan the flames of your activity.


My husband, children, and mom inspire me most.
My drive is derived from giving back to those that have supported me/us.
I would say that my inspiration is built upon ALL of the above.


What about you?
Grab hold and enjoy the ride!

Ch-Angels

Ch-Angels are those beautiful creatures that walk the earth,
often times unaware of the joy and love and happiness that they spread.
Ch-Angels are those delightful souls that act without malice,
perform with only good intentions,
believe they can (and do) make a difference,
share their hearts and their talents freely,
give without expectation of acknowledgement or reciprocation.


Some say I might view the world through rose-colored glasses.
I prefer to believe my eyesight is focused on feathers and faith!


I am blessed to be surrounded by Ch-Angels.
Thank you one and all.

Thank You! Thank You! Thank You!

I'm not asking for anything.
I'm not begging for support.
I'm not looking for love.


I'm here to say Thank You!


Thank You for the trials.
They have shown me patience.
Thank You for the bullies.
They have shown me my own strength.
Thank You for the failures.
They have shown me success's sweetness.
Thank You for the brick walls.
They have shown me how to think outside the box.
The bad stuff is not always bad.


And,
Thank You! Thank You! Thank You!
for family, babies, laughter, love, puppies, music, art, poetry, freedom, friendship,
travel, wonder, beauty, kindness, forgiveness, free speech, hugs, quiet, the ocean,
the woods, the meadows, flowers, understanding, communication, support, faith,
exercise, children, weddings, first snows, spring flowers, summer sun, autumn colors,
good hair days, memories, unexpected phone calls, positive reinforcement, . . .


feel free to add your own


Realize the magnitude of what you have!

Chivality

Civility is defined as:


courtesy; politeness


Chivalry is defined as:


the sum of ideal qualifications of a knight, including courtesy,
generosity, and valor


How about, moving forward, we teach our children a little


Chivality

Go create wonder

The greatest deed you can ever do
is one without the chance of accolades.
Anonymity lightens your heart.
Those random acts of kindness
will come back to bless you in ways you never imagined.
Seek not the bright lights, fame and fortune.
Instead, choose a less travelled path from which you watch
the ripples of your positive efforts spring forth
a delicate and beautifully intricate web of wonder.


Go create wonder.

Sparkle On

Don't let anyone dull your sparkle.


You were made to shine.
You were made to share your brilliance.
You were made to be a beacon.
You were made to bring joy.
You were made to make a difference.
You were made to bring hope.
You were made to fill a heart.
You were made to give your gifts.
You were made to sparkle.


Sparkle On!

Live Out Loud

Live Out Loud.


How to you define this?


To me, it means to live as you believe
and do it freely and openly.
It doesn't mean to shove your opinions and thoughts
down other's throats.
It doesn't mean you are right or above others.


It means you are comfortable in your own skin;
happy with your own heart;
purposeful with your passions;
and tenacious in your trek.


I encourage you to Live Out Loud today.
Be who and what you were meant to be.
We are each gifted with incredible talents.
Use them.
Share them.
Show them.


Live. Out. Loud.

Puzzling . . .

Don't start today
with the broken pieces of your yesterday.
Every day is a fresh start;
a new piece to the puzzle that is your life.
Each morning is a new beginning;
a fresh blank table in which to lay your perimeters and fill them in.
Each blessed time you wake up,
you have the chance to create your own masterpiece.

Take Care of Business

Your smile is your logo.
Your personality is your business card.
How you leave others feeling after being with you becomes your trademark.


What kind of business are you running?

Two for One

Today, two quotes that seem to be somehow intertwined for me.
Each of us has gifts to give and each day is an opportunity to share them.


I arise full of eagerness and energy,
knowing well what achievement lies ahead of me.
~ Zane Grey


Let each man exercise the art he knows.
~ Aristophanes


Do not squash the dreams of others.
Awaken each day with the realization
that you can help another achieve their dreams,
and in doing so,
you are achieving your own.


Go be bold and beautiful and daring today . . .

Alone

Learn to be alone and like it.
There is nothing more freeing and empowering
than learning to like your own company.


This beautiful sentiment needs to be read and absorbed by so many.
Far too many folks believe they need another human to be complete.
You are perfect and absolute all on your own.
Find contentment within your own marvelously wonderful self.

Warm Fuzzy

I try, every day, to offer a positive outlook on whatever it is you might be travelling through.
I try to make sure you see a silver lining in every circumstance.
I try to make sure you are aware of how valued and loved you are.


There is nothing better than a good Warm Fuzzy!


That feeling when someone creates such an pocket of comfort
that you are completely at ease.
That feeling when you realize you truly matter.
That feeling when your heart expands and your eyes well up
simply by understanding that someone truly cares.


Today, I wish you a good Warm Fuzzy!


And I'd like to thank those who recently have afforded me the same.
Some are friends and some are strangers.
The feeling isn't any different.
The appreciation is just as grand.

Listen!

I'm currently talking a few folks through difficult times.
It is a privilege and a joy to be able to walk someone through a storm
and see them emerge as stronger, better, more resilient people.
Sometimes, I need to talk to myself!


There are times when I get very angry.
I must remember what I say to others - Does it really matter?
There are times when I get very hurt.
I must remember what I say to others - It's sad that others feel the need to be so mean.
There are times when I am very lost.
I must remember what I say to others - Chin up! Knees down!
There are times when I am not sure what to do.
I must remember what I say to others - Listen in the quiet. The answers will come.


Listen to your own self.
You know what's best.
You know what's right.
Believe in your ability to do the right thing . . . for others . . . and for yourself!


Listen!

You Never Know

Each morning I sit to write this blog.
I go through my ritual of emails and Facebook and calendars and some quiet time.
I am usually influenced by one or more items that tend to stand out and touch me.
Today, it was a little abstract, but that little voice kept poking me . . . until I listened.


You Never Know whose life you will touch.
You Never Know whose heart you will change.
You Never Know whose attitude you will lift.
You Never Know whose mind you will open.
You Never Know.


So do the right thing.
Be kind. Be thoughtful. Be generous.
Give if you're able.
Give if you're not.
A simple smile, kind word, or good action can make all the difference in someone's day.


You Never Know.

Courage

Courage . . .


Is faith.
Is tenacity.
Is strength.
Is fortitude.
Is persistence.
Is determination.


You may not be able to see your goal, but you move ahead anyway.
You might be told "No!" but you move ahead anyway.
You might feel intimidated, but you move ahead anyway.
You might feel overwhelmed, but you move ahead anyway.
You might be exhausted, but you move ahead anyway.
You might feel defeated, but you move ahead anyway.


Courage is not reserved for special folk.
Is lies within each and every one of us.
Follow your heart.
Follow your dream.
You have the courage to do any thing!

The Postage Stamp

A little light-hearted Monday morning food for thought . . .


Consider the postage stamp:
its usefulness consists
in the ability to stick to one thing
until it gets there.
~ Josh Billings


Be the Postage Stamp.
Stick to it!
Set a goal and get there.

Build Wisely

Where does your house sit?


I'm not talking about your physical living accommodations.
I'm talking about the house your head sits in.


Dwell in possibility.
Build a second story of positivity.
Be sure your foundation is in faith.
Always open your doors to opportunity.
Stairs should always spiral to contentment.
Windows should have the vista you choose.
Live in love.


Build Wisely.

Length or Width?

An age old debate . . .


But today's post is on another topic entirely!


I don't want to get to the end of my life
and find that I have just lived the length of it.
I want to have lived the width of it as well.
~  Diane Ackerman


And to apply it to my football friends . . .


Go wide! Go wide!


Enjoy your day.

Sing

I was raised in a house filled with music.
I went to school that offered all kinds of music.
My family created at least three different bands.
We also had family band evenings.
Music is an incredible tool.


When I sat bedside while my mother was waning,
I sang to her.
I'm no songbird, but she loved when I sang.
I sang Spanish Harlem - one of her favorites that her brother sang.
I sang Bridge Over Troubled Water - one of my personal favorites.
I sang.
And sang.


When my son was receiving treatments for his illness,
the hardest part of the entire process was getting the IV started.
The ritual always included headphones and a seriously awesome playlist.
And there was singing.


I cannot fathom any situation where singing wouldn't help.
OK - maybe not in the middle of some tedious accounting meeting,
but then again . . . it may be exactly what is needed.


Singing is not only a positive activity.
It's healthy. It engages your lungs and gets your heart pumping.


Sing some today.
For you. For those around you.
Sing

Surprise!

How wonderful is a surprise?
Absolutely fabulous!


While working through a tediously grueling shift, I looked up and saw the smiling face of a beautiful friend who came to surprise me.
There was, of course, a hug.
There was chatter and laughter and stories.
There was catching up and, of course, another hug.


She may have chose to come to my place of employment because there was something there she wanted, but she came and looked for me.
What a privilege.
What an honor.
What a treat.


Thank you!


Go surprise someone today.
It might surprise you how much it means to them.

Go be amazing!

Sometimes,
a part of us must die
before another part can come to life.


This may mean leaving a job.
This may mean breaking up with a girl/boyfriend or spouse.
This may mean moving.
This may mean changing your regular routine.
This may mean altering who you associate with.


Growth and progression was never professed to be easy.
Sometimes that first step is a real doozy,
but it can be the first step toward something amazing.
Take it!


Go be amazing!

Be Kind

If you can do good, even a little, do it.
A random act of kindness need not involve money or some grand gesture.
It simply needs to display your heart.


Smile.
Open a door.
Offer a hand.
Speak encouragement.
Be available.
Give of your self.


Be Kind today.

Just Breathe

I may have written about this previously.
It is a reminder for all of us.


There are a bazillion people on earth.
You're going to let just one ruin your day?


Having a seventy pound puppy as I near fifty is teaching me great patience.


The guy who just cut you off may have saved you from an upcoming accident scene.
The shopper who jumped in line in front of you may have an elderly parent waiting at home.
The frantic mother screaming at her children may have many other issues on her plate.
The car line at school might be long, but the children are safe.


Just breathe!


There are many things that are out of your control.
The only thing within your control is how your respond to each.


Just breathe!


Realize that their actions really don't impact your life.
YOU impact your life.
YOU choose what comes in and what you deter.
YOU allow how you feel.


Just breathe!


Make a choice today to breathe and just be happy.

Time Out

In speaking to an old friend last week, I learned that an even older friend's wife was possibly showing signs of serious aging and maybe more. It was a sad discovery. It was a bittersweet moment when the first friend told me that the second friend was actually asking about me.
It made me really stop.


Today, I took a Time Out.


I did something few folks even remember how to do.
I picked up a notebook and a pen and I hand wrote a two-page letter to those friends.
I explained that I thanked them for allowing me into their lives.
I explained that by their inclusion of me, my life was greatly improved.
I explained that each person in that family deeply and truly touched my heart
and seriously impacted my life.
I explained that I thought it necessary and important for me to share this information.
I believe that those I truly love - should know it and why.


Would you take a Time Out?
You don't have to get all crazy. You could type and email a letter,
but imagine the surprise and tangible truth in the hands of that recipient.
Take Time Out today to acknowledge someone who has touched your life.

Forgiveness

This is a lesson a lot of us learn over and over again.
Sadly because other folks take advantage of kind and generous people.


People are confused about forgiveness:


It is not about excusing someone's actions . . .
It is about not allowing their actions to hurt you any more.


Thanks you Sue Fitzmaurice. Your insight is wonderful.


Don't carry anyone else's baggage.
Your journey is yours alone.


Forgive . . . for you!

Autumn

There's a briskness to the day. (Well, maybe not in  Florida.)
There is color on the leaves.
Folks venture out of the air conditioning to enjoy a little fresh air.
It is a season of change in many ways.


Make it a season of change for you, too.


Let go of things you cannot fix.
Hold tight to those you truly love.
Smile at the world - it is a portrait of who you are.
Take on a new task.
Begin a new adventure.
Be bold.
Be unafraid.
Go forth and make a difference.

Stand in the Gap

I attended a function this past weekend regarding Human Trafficking. It was quite an eye-opening experience and I appreciate the invite. It was held at a church and the two women who spoke were obviously very passionate about their mission to put a dent in or eliminate the trafficking of more than 27 million human beings. Do a little research. It's not just third world countries, or 'somewhere else'. It is right here!

One of the things the speaker kept saying, whether it connected with the effort at hand, or on a multitude of other levels, was to "Stand in the Gap".

It made a real impact on me.

 

Stand in the Gap:

Be there to assist

Lend a hand

Be available

Be vigilant

Help

Be a voice

 

It doesn't matter if it's Human Trafficking, a children's hospital, or spreading the Good Word.

Stand in the Gap

 

Be the buoy.

Be the life preserver.

Be the difference in someone's life.

 

Stand in the Gap

Reflection

It is Saturday.
It is time to reflect upon a long week of ups and downs,
positives and negatives,
tears and laughter.


Tomorrow I go to celebrate the life of a very special human being,
and yet it will be time to say goodbye.
Tomorrow I celebrate the birthday of a beautifully wonderful Pink Princess,
and yet wish I could see her more often.
Tomorrow I celebrate the birthday of a rare young man who has blessed the life of my son,
and yet wish they could see one another a little more frequently.
And that is just tomorrow.
This past week was filled with all the same whirlwind roller coaster of emotions.


And that is life.


Up and down.
Round and round.
Laughter and tears.
Positives and negatives.
Lessons and learning.


And the greatest of these . . . is love.
Enjoy your reflections.

Live On

As of late, I have had the sad reality of consoling others for their loss of loved ones.
Any time I shed tears for others, I inevitably think about my grandparents, dads, father-in-law, and
always . . . of course, my mom.


I saw this quote from Norton yesterday and it just screamed to be shared.
So for those going through a recent loss,
or being reminded of one that continues to tug at your heartstrings,
read this:


Those we hold most dear never leave us.
They live on
in the kindness they showed,
the comfort they shared,
and the love they brought into life.


Live On

Cherish

I am mixing things up this morning.
Sometimes, I am bombarded with the same message from several directions.
Sometimes, I see a common thread between poignant info.
Sometimes, I am just given the gift of fingers that move across the keyboard.
Either way . . . I enjoy the opportunity to come to you each day and offer up a little positivity.


Do not dwell on those who let you down or hurt you.
You did not sow that.
You do not need to reap that.
Those weeds are not for you to pull.
Cherish those who love you, support you and hold you up.


Make today what you want it to be.

Tomorrow

Tomorrow is promised to no one.


Take time today to share your heart.
Take time today to tell those you love, that you love them.
Take time today to call those you miss.
Take time today to visit with a friend.
Take time today to care about and tend to one another.


Life is a precious gift.
Open it excitedly each day.
Play with it to great extent each day.
Enjoy what matters. Walk away from what doesn't.
Take delight in all its blessings.


Enjoy today.
I appreciate you all.
Thank you.
Love ya!

New Meaning to 'Skin Deep'

I believe the old adage is "Beauty is only skin deep."


This brings, to a very solid and powerful point, a new view to that statement:


"If the words you spoke,
appeared on your skin,
would you still be beautiful?"


There is such weight and magnitude to your voice.
Use it wisely.

Light

Not light on your feet.
Not excessively skinny.
Not fluorescents at Home  Depot.


I'm talking about what comes from INSIDE.


There is a brilliance inside each of us.
Some have tarnished it with poor choices.
Some have shaded it with poor intent.
Some have masked it in the name of 'mood lighting'.


Don't hinder the beacon.
Let your light shine.
Your megawatt glow has many facets.
It can easily change your day for the better.
It can even more easily change the day of someone else.
It can guide the timid, the faltered, the wary.


Open yourself up to the radiance that is you.
Shine on!

Looking

Looking behind I am filled with gratitude.
Looking forward I am filled with vision.
Looking upwards I am filled with strength.
Looking within I discover peace.


Q-ero Indians

Strength

I have written about strength in regard to working out.
Exercising the body is essential to a healthy life.


I have written about strength that dwells deep within each of us.
Finding that strength is essential to a healthy life.


The strength I am writing of today is from another Source entirely.
Strength, from the knees up.
Whether you are facing financial woes, health issues, obstacles that seem insurmountable,
you need to find your strength, from the knees up.
You probably won't find a bucket of money.
You probably won't find an answer to 'why?' for your health issues.
You probably won't find the open door to a path around your troubles.


Should you, however, find the humility and humbleness to find your knees,
your questions might dissolve in the strength from something far greater than your own efforts.
Find your strength from the knees up.

Always

Whether it is yesterday,
a year ago,
a decade ago,
or eleven years ago . . .
the images of the event of September 11, 2001
will be forever emblazoned in my brain.


Although we say we will Never Forget . . .
let us Always Remember


Remember the lives lost
Remember the heroes made
Remember the sacrifices
Remember to stay vigilant
Remember.


Always!

Ch-Angel time

There are folks who are friends,
and then . . .
there are Ch-Angels!


Those folks that, without thought, expectation, or effort, simply go beyond the norm
and excel in amazingness.
Ch-Angels like Ann, Edie, Leslie, Amie, Winnie, Sharon, April, Lenny, Kerry, Chris, Jackie, Dianna, Joyce and Donna.
I hope that your life and your days are filled with folks like these.
So selfless and so giving and so very kind and loving.
So supportive and generous and honest.
Oh, you've no idea the joy you give just to realize that you are a boundary
between myself and the opposite sort in the world.
Thank you Ch-Angels!
Thank you!

Phoenix

Not the city . . . never been there.


This is the more about the rising up,
the dusting off of ashes,
the becoming more and better and being transformed.


Do not let the fires
of contempt,
of evil,
of hatred,
and jealousy consume you.


Do not let the flames
of discontent,
of malevolence,
and burn you.


Rise up!
Stand in all the glory and beauty and greatness
that you were created to be.
Fly.
No . . .
Soar!


Begin again.

Discover

Today is an awesome day.
It is another opportunity to open a new gift; a new talent; a new possibility.
Your life can be deeper than any ocean,
bigger than a Montana sky,
and richer than all the money you could ever lay your hands on.
You are chock full of potential.
You are filled to the brim with capabilities.
Do everything you dream of.
Keep reinventing yourself.
Go discover all the things that you can be.

Celebrate

Whether it is a first step,
first word,
good grade,
new job,
goal obtained,
task completed ~
Celebrate!


If you stood up for yourself,
stood up for someone else,
or simply stood up ~
Celebrate!


If you took a leap of faith,
fell down,
or finished a marathon ~
Celebrate!


Every occasion is a joyous reason to acknowledge ~
and Celebrate!


Behold . . . you are amazing and resilient and tenacious and determined.
Celebrate!

Embrace

Of course I could be talking about one of my favorite things ~ hugs, but I'm not.


Today, I'm asking you to embrace life.
Embrace the trials.
Embrace the triumphs.
Embrace the pain.
Embrace the paradise.
Embrace the hurt.
Embrace the hurrahs.
Embrace the struggles.
Embrace the stamina.
Embrace the detours.
Embrace the doors.
Embrace the broken.
Embrace the blessings.
It all gels together to create the most unique and beautiful you there can be.


And hugs don't hurt either!

Be that again

I saw this today and it really hit home.


Remember when you were a kid
and were happy for no reason?
Be that again.


It could be, too, that I just watched "Heaven is for Real" last night
and was thoroughly reminded of a childhood innocence far too many of us have
forgotten, buried, or simply seriously subdued.


Be happy.
Be that again.

Packaging

Oh, the world is a beautiful place filled with beautiful packages.
Red headed, blonde, brunette, black, and even a few more brightly covered tops.
Big packages, little packages, large packages, small packages.
Round packages, petite packages, well-kempt packages, slightly disheveled packages.
Bald packages, furry packages.
Happy packages and not-so-happy packages.
The plethora of pickings is amazing.
The options are astounding.


What's so incredible, however, is that no matter the variance on the outside,
the insides are all the same.


A heart, looking for love and support and acceptance.


Do not ever judge a package by its wrapping.
Love it, cause it's just like you.

Meaning

This was sent from another source.
I cannot take any credit - but I will happily and eagerly pass it along.
There are multitudes that need to read, hear, and see this:


You do not go to find meaning in your life.
You bring meaning to your life.


Meaning isn't something out there waiting for you to discover.
The meaning of your life is what you infuse it with ~
beauty or ugliness,
positive or negative,
passion or drama,
happiness or sadness.


It is totally your choice.

Resilience

This is written, of course for me, but for a multitude of others as well.
It is in general . . . but also terribly specific!


To those that believe I am disposable.
To those that believe they can simply discard me.
To those that believe they can mightily and handily defeat me . . .


Be afraid.


For when you throw me to the wolves . . .
I will return leading the pack!


Today, I wish you much resilience.

A Challenge

Oh, I love a challenge!
This may have stemmed from being one of seven children.
It may have stemmed from being the only girl of seven children.
It may have stemmed from folks telling me I could not do something.
Whatever the reason, I am thankful I've got the drive and stamina and determination
to meet whatever comes my way.


I've been challenged with many things in my lifetime.
Each has molded and shaped me into what I am today.
It may not always be pretty, but I am strong and sturdy and steadfast.


From the illness of a child, to the passing of my mother, I was present in the challenge.
Now, we have ice buckets and rain makers.
The latest challenge I have been tasked with is to share my blessings.
I only have seven days and three to be thankful for each day.
The hardest part will be choosing which things to write about.
I hope those of you that are faced with the same challenge, have the same problem.


Some challenges may seem rather unconquerable;
but assess, assault and overcome.
You can do it . . . no matter what it is.

We need more ING

A super special ch-Angel friend put up a post this morning.
This post was perfect for her. She's always so uplifting and brilliant and beaming.
It was the 'ing's that truly glared out at me.
I think we need more ING.


smiling
dreaming
loving
hugging
holding
searching
thanking
feeling
learning
playing
laughing
thinking
wishing
praying
forgiving
healing
expressing
appreciating
believing
cherishing
creating
hoping
living

Strength

I subscribe to all kinds of fitness and strength posts and emails.
I gain all sorts of insight into what exercise works which parts best and what works best for me.
But the strength I am referring to today, has nothing to do with any muscle but your heart!


Some folks I know are laying family members to rest.
Some folks I know are helping family members get ready for that next step.
Some folks I know are going through treatment for horrible diseases.
Some folks I know are fighting like crazy for their children and the issues they are facing.
Some folks I know are fighting addictions.
Some folks I know are working through self doubt.
Some folks I know are seeking new avenues to better themselves.
Some folks I know are trying relentlessly to improve their lives.
Some folks I know are overcoming obstacles no one should face.
Some folks I know are simply trying to survive.
Some folks I know are accepting new challenges.
Some folks I know are unwilling to allow hurtful people to hurt them any more.
Some folks I know are victorious in simply getting through the day.


The strength that allows all that is found within one's heart.
I believe it is faith.
Whether faith in a religion,
faith in one's self,
faith in nothing but sheer determination.
It is faith.
Faith imparts a strength that cannot be denied.
Faith allows a strength that cannot be quelled.
Faith gives way to a strength that can achieve absolutely any thing!


Today, I wish you faith and strength!

WHAT?

Here's an idea.
This one just might shake up your whole day and make you say, "WHATt?"


For all you Eeyore types,
those of you who are the nay-sayers
the party poopers
the Debbie Downers
the always-coming-up-with-issues people . . .


How about this:


Choose to believe that it's impossible to fail!


Did you see the light bulb come on?
Why not pursue the possibilities instead of taking up residence on the obstacles?
Your "I Can!" is far stronger than your "I probably won't be able to."
What you put in your head is what you get done.
Take baby steps toward whatever goal you want to achieve,
but take STEPS!
Your success lies completely within YOU!

Oh yes

From John Burroughs:


I still find each day too short
for all the thoughts I want to think,
all the walks I want to take,
all the books I want to read, and
all the friends I want to see.
The longer I live,
the more my mind dwells
upon the beauty and the wonder
of the world.


Oh yes!

A virtue?

Patience, they say, is a virtue.
I'm wondering if that's right.
A virtue is defined as:  moral excellence
Hmmm


At this point, I'd settle for folks realizing it is a necessity.
A simple, day-to-day life skill without which society crumbles.


Is it really that important to get to the stop light twelve seconds before the person you just cut off?
Do you need to purchase all the pasta to save thirty-four cents?
Do you need to begin your child's dance lessons at four months so they are the best?
Do you have to answer every email before you pay attention to your toddler?
Can't your text wait til you're at a light, or better yet . . . at home?


Patience has moved beyond virtue.
It is a lost art form.
An abandoned behavior that the world is truly lacking.
A little more patience would create a much more peaceful world.


Take some time to breathe.
Respond. Don't react.
Let the other driver in.
Let someone else save a few pennies on groceries.
It's ok for your child to not always be a superstar.
Your email and texts can wait.


Let's try a little patience today.

Every Day

Every day holds the possibility of a miracle!


My daughter send me an article of some nearly 400 people who played pay-it-forward at a St. Petersburg Starbucks.
My awesome husband brought me home a beautiful bouquet of roses and other flowers for my birthday without a single hint.
Literally hundreds of friends and family took a moment from their busy schedules to wish me a happy birthday.
Old communications have been re-opened.
Beautiful youngens opened their hearts.


Every day . . . every single one . . . holds the possibility of a miracle!
Of A Miracle!


I wish for you, today, your very own miracle!

The greatest gift

Today is my birthday ~
The greatest gift I've been given.


To be able to make friends, be a friend, create and raise children, be a wife, be a daughter, a sister, an aunt, and to try to make a difference.


My humble and sincere thanks are given to each of you.
For helping to make me be better, stronger, smarter, safer, and more compassionate.
You've taught me courage and determination and fortitude.
You've brought me faith and support and love.
You've picked me up, brushed me off, lifted me beyond my troubles.
You love me.


The greatest gift each day is to realize I've been blessed with all of you.
Thank you for a fabulous birthday present!

Go be amazing!

"You're only given a little spark of madness.
You mustn't lose it."
~ Robin Williams


To all those young adults returning to college in the near future ~ remember this.
Grab life by the nads and seize each day for all it's worth.
Don't give up on your dreams because society expects a certain behavior from you.
Be everything you've been blessed to be.


Go be amazing!

Fire and Ice

I understand that the ALS Ice Bucket challenge has brought millions of dollars to the ALS Foundation. I sure hope they are able to find a cure. It would be wonderful to be rid of that.


But . . .


When I was tasked with the challenge, I wondered why I would donate to ALS when so many other things hit so much closer to home for me. And so . . . the Marinello clan went rogue.


Without taking anything away from ALS, I am challenging folks to the:


Marinello Make-It-Rain Charity Challenge!


I videotaped our family tossing several hundred dollars into the air. This cash will be split between two charities that truly touch my soul ~ All Children's Hospital and The Children's Dream Fund.


I'm challenging you to go videotape yourself or your family Making-It-Rain for the charity of YOUR choice. Some folks might choose Alzheimer's, Autism, Cancer, Animals, or whatever truly move YOU! If you cannot afford a couple hundred and can only donate $5 . . . then do it in pennies, put on a hard hat, and Make-It-Rain in pennies! (tag me in it on FB at Lyn Rider Marinello)


Put your paper where your passion is.
Make a difference to something that's made a difference to you.
But, please, do Something!


Use the Fire you have for the charity you choose,
or the Ice you have for ALS.


Fire and Ice

Infinite

This was sent to me from a friend.
I'm sure it's old, but it made me chuckle.
Thought I'd pass the chuckle along.
Please don't take life so seriously.
Enjoy the trip!


"Two things are infinite:  the universe and human stupidity;
and I am not sure about the universe."


Have a wonderful day with a smile on your face.

First Day

Down here in the Sunshine State, today is the first day of school.
Although my 'babies' are not part of this group any longer, I am seeing photo after photo being posted of the children of friends who are headed back to another year of learning.
As much as I admire and respect all you teachers out there, this is a most interesting day for all those kids . . . be it entering kindergarten or becoming a senior.


They will undoubtedly reconnect with old friends and enjoy stories of summer shenanigans.
They will also, however, meet hoards of new faces.
They will learn how to act and react, behave in new surroundings, and become a little more independent.
They will begin to learn new methods of behavior.
They will absorb and become overwhelmed with a cavalcade of calamity.
They will bring home homework for the parents and stories for the ages.


Enjoy it all.
Whether you are the child, the parent, or the teacher.
It is, beyond the First Day, . . . an opportunity.
To touch a life.
To mold a mind.
To make a difference.
No matter who you are!


Make it a great First Day!

Dare to Bare

Every single one of us is vulnerable and can be hurt.
Every single one of us is also capable of love and happiness.


When we Dare to Bare our inner self;
our true,
unfettered,
original,
unobstructed,
unpainted,
simple and beautiful self . . .
an amazing thing happens.
People see the REAL you!


They are drawn to you.
They see honesty.
They feel comfortable.
They sense hope and love and caring.
They are at ease.


Dare to Bare the real you.
You are a beautiful, talented, giving, worthy, wonderful soul.
Share all those gifts with the world.
Don't cloak them in what the world seems to want right now.
YOU are absolutely incredible . . . exactly as you are!

Simple Things

Sometimes I wake up with inspiration swimming in my head.
Other mornings it is difficult to find something to elaborate on.
Some days, like today, it was one of those obvious days where a recurring theme was everywhere.


The Simple Things.


Some are not content unless they are rolling in money with the newest gadgets in their hands.
Some are not happy unless they stand head and shoulders above the rest.
Some need constant back-patting and hand-holding in order to feel ok.


Others . . .


Well they are ecstatic that their kids are settled comfortably in a new school.
They are thrilled that they can enjoy fresh flowers from their own garden.
They are over-the-moon that they are walking again.
They are beside themselves with joy that their child is happy and laughing.
They are enjoying a little quiet time with chirping birds and lapping waves.
They are frolicking in the knowledge that they are loved.


Find contentment in the people and the beauty that surrounds you.
It will far outlast your money, your fame, and your gadgets.


Go enjoy the Simple Things.

Change

I have many friends who are going through loss, change, and uncertainty.
Know that you've got folks around you that are thinking of you,
praying for you,
cheering you on.
These are YOUR Ch-Angels!
Know that your journey isn't 'over.'
It is simply taking a new direction.
There is much pressure on an arrow as it is drawn back.
Its purpose, however, is to find the target.

A little progress

I'm mashing together a few different quotes and stirring in a little Lynicism!


Behold the turtle.
He makes progress only when he sticks his neck out.
Our greatest weakness lies in fear and giving up.
The most certain way to succeed is always to try - just one more time.
Fear and inactivity will certainly get you and the turtle nowhere.
Be cautious. Be slow and steady.
But stick your neck out there.
Get out of your 'comfort zone' and make a little progress.

Nanu Nanu

Robin Williams signs off one last time.
Such a devastating loss to comedy, tv, big screen, and life.
From Mork, to Popeye, to Hook, to Mrs. Doubtfire.
"The World According to Garp," "Dead Poets Society," "Good Morning Vietnam".
"Good Will Hunting," "Moscow on the Hudson," "Cadillac Man," "Awakenings,"
"The Fisher King," "Aladdin," "Being Human," "The Birdcage," "Patch Adams,"
"One Hour Photo," "Insomnia," "Night at the Museum," and "The Butler".
I probably missed some, but that is more than enough.
You touched generations.
You made us laugh. You made us cry. You made us think.
You were your own universe and your own island.
Thank you for what you gave to so many for so very, very long.
You will be missed!
Genie, you're free!

See ~ Say ~ Do

From Marian Wright Edelman . . .


Service is the rent we pay for being.
It is the very purpose of life,
and not something you do in your spare time.


If some folks would take heed of this,
realize it is not about 15 seconds of fame,
back patting, name in lights and all that jazz,
the world would be a better place.


See something, say something, do something!

Choo Choo

I took this from a friend. Thank you Ch-Angel!


At birth, we board life's train and meet our parents.
We believe they will always travel by our side.
However, at some station, our parents step down and depart.
The train does not derail. It continues on.
Others board the train. Some will be significant to us. Some will not.
Some will catch other connectors. We must let them go.
The train does not derail. It continues on.
Children will arrive and occupy seats.
Friends and family will make the journey interesting and fun.
There will be joys, sorrow, expectations, hellos, and goodbyes.
A successful passenger has a good relationship with all passengers.
We never know when it will be our time to depart the train.
When you leave your seat . . .
Leave it filled with beautiful memories for those around you.
The train does not derail. It continues on.
I wish you a joyful journey on the train of life.
Enjoy the scenery. Enjoy the passengers. Enjoy the trip.

To teach . . .

To teach . . .


As the Florida teachers return to work, I stand in awe of all that they accomplish.
Not just Florida teachers - but all teachers . . . everywhere!
They babysit, mend, guide, mediate, love, endure, provide, enable, teach, and so much more.
They are supportive and expectant and stable and giving.
They humble themselves to do great things.
They mold minds and hearts and lives.
They make an incredible impact on strangers who wander the halls for a brief moment in time.
It is a beautiful profession!


Thank you!

Seek

Our biggest search and most rewarding find in life
is someone who will inspire us
to be better;
to be amazing;
to try harder;
to step out of our comfort zone;
to dare to dream;
to be what we know we could be.

Journey

No one is ahead of you.
No one is behind you.
You are not more advanced.
You are not less enlightened.
You are not better.
You are not worse.
This is not a contest.
You are exactly where you need to be.
We are all teachers.
We are all students.
This is life.
This is a beautiful and untamed journey.
Enjoy.

The forest

I believe the quote is:  We cannot see the forest for the trees.


All too often, we are searching for a particular answer or victory or outcome.
We fail to see the entire picture.
We may think we've failed at a relationship, but fail to see the incredible children and grandchildren that are a product of we "perceive" as a failure.
We may think want to be famous or some ground-breaking difference maker, but fail to realize that if we've impacted just ONE life - it is extraordinary gift to that ONE life.
We may want to see some specific result from our efforts, but don't understand that the actual outcome is a thousand times better.


Enjoy the forest!
It's a beautiful place!

New Beginnings

With every birth, we celebrate a new beginning. A new life.
This is written for several folks that I love dearly who are in the midst of New Beginnings.


It is not just a baby that brings new life.
It is the refreshing, the cleansing, the open door that affords us the opportunity of a New Beginning.
To stand and dwell on your past,
to labor in your losses,
to fret about your misfortune,
to wallow in your pain or anger
brings you no closer to the beauty and blessings that stand before you.
Believe in faith that you are right where you are meant to be.
You are leaving whatever it might be behind you for a reason.
Never let a toxic past infect your future.
We each contain within us a fire,
a fuel,
a fortitude.
We each carry forth a mission,
not only for ourselves, but to assist and benefit others.
To bring peace and hope and love and trust and guidance.
Your path is an instrument for someone else's journey.
Embrace your New Beginning.
It is a gift!
Love you!

Be Your Own Special Self

A few days ago, while sweating half to death mowing the lawn,
I found myself standing in the garage drinking a bottle of water
trying to regain some sense of not falling down from heat exhaustion.
I happened to look up on the wall and saw a gift from my gymnastics coach from
. . . let's see . . .
some thirty-plus years ago!
It is a simple plaque with a little ballerina on it.
She's got horrible stance as she props one leg up on the barre -
bent knee and all.
Her hair is 'mostly' up and some askew.
She's also blowing a giant bubble of gum.
The phrase above the tiny dancer says:


Be Your Own Special Self


I was given this plaque for most-improved gymnast that year.
I remember it well. It was a good year.
It was an even better gift.
Obviously! I still have it! Thanks A3


The point is (or the Pointe is ~ for your dancers) is
to always be your own special self.
No matter what.
Your talents and your gifts are your own.
You are unique and beautiful and wonderful in your own way.
Don't ever let anyone EVER steal your inner joy, your drive, or your passion.


Be Your Own Special Self!

A Moment

Today . . . amidst the chaos of whatever your day might hold for you . . .
take A Moment.


Listen to the quiet stillness of the early morning.
Enjoy the songs of the birds outside.
Take in the splendor of the sun light streaming through the clouds.
Bask in the warmth of that sun on your face.
Marvel at the water or the mountains or the woods or whatever beauty surrounds you.
Take delight in blooming flowers.
Lose yourself in a friendly hug.
Drift away in peaceful thought.
Relish a memory long tucked away.
Linger in a child's laughter.
Drink in puppy breath or the roughness of a kitty kiss.
Share a smile with someone in need.
Give thanks for all the blessings you have.
Sleep peacefully into tomorrow.


A Moment can set your world right.

Patience

There is a serious lesson to be learned from infants and puppies.


PATIENCE!


They don't understand "Wait a minute."
They don't fathom "I'm busy right now."
They cannot comprehend "Let me finish my work."


They want their attention.
They want their attention NOW!


And if you can prioritize properly
and give them what they want . . . and deserve . . .
the prize is absolutely priceless:


an unconditional love and affection that is near to indescribable!


It is heaven on earth.
It is a cherubic smile from a toothless face.
It is sloppy licks from a creature who wants to be absolutely nowhere else.
Take a moment.
Be patient.
Soak in all the goodness that it brings!

Healthy Heart

For a healthy heart, there are those that will tell you to do lots of exercise.
Three days of weight training and a couple days of cardio.
Some folks are born runners and will run for miles and miles.
Some folks do mud runs and obstacle courses on a regular basis.
Although this surely helps to maintain optimal heart health,
there is an exercise far too many folks leave out . . .
Kindness and Love.


How about that swelling prideful heart when your child accomplishing a difficult task?
How about that overwhelming surge when your partner does that little something extra for you?
How about that incredible humbling warmth when you've helped another human being?


The heart does so much more than just pump blood.
Make use of ALL its facets.
Revel in your healthy heart today!

Special

Do you know how special you are?
Do you realize how amazing you are?
Do you understand how important you are?
Do you comprehend the integral meaning of your existence?


You are all of those things,
and so very much more.
You have talents and gifts and love and faith to share.
You have broad shoulders and open ears.
You have a loving heart and a beautiful soul.


Share your incredible self with the world.

Beautiful Success

I stole today's quote from Louisa May Alcott.
It would seem that I'm writing this for my daughter - whose comment from a week or so ago, needed to be addressed by this.
I'm certain, though, that it is for a great many others as well!


Have regular hours for work and play;
make each day both useful and pleasant,
and prove that you understand the worth of time
by employing it well.
Then youth will be delightful,
old age will bring few regrets,
and life will become a beautiful success.

Pursuit of Happiness

What is your happiness?


Do you want to run a marathon?
Do you want to bake yourself into a stupor?
Do you want to learn another language?
Do you want to be in better shape?
Do you want to paint or draw or write or sing?
Do you want to just be happy?


The pursuit begins with deciding to do it.
Make a plan.
Set goals  ~  tiny plateaus to acquire to attain your final goal.
Stay focused and determined.
There will be delays.
There will be setbacks.
Not everyone will cheer you on.
The drive to succeed must be your own!
Just a little every day!


Go!
Pursue!
Get Happy!