Happy Birthday to the Dalai Lama

The Dalai Lama celebrates his 75th birthday in his adopted town of Dharamsala, India.  The Dalai Lama of Tibet has been in exile since 1959, as long as I have been alive.  His messages of peace, hope, compassion and simplicity benefit all humankind.  Se'Lah of Necessary Room is hosting a Random Act of Kindness Day in honor of the Dalai Lama's birthday.  She inspires me to be a better person and in her words practice...One Love!  Join us today...one random act of kindness...you will like it, I promise!  Following are some of my favorite quotes by the Dalai Lama:

Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible.


Happiness is not something ready made. It comes from your own actions.


If you can, help others; if you cannot do that, at least do not harm them.


If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.


It is very important to generate a good attitude, a good heart, as much as possible. From this, happiness in both the short term and the long term for both yourself and others will come.


Where ignorance is our master, there is no possibility of real peace
 
Whether one believes in a religion or not, and whether one believes in rebirth or not, there isn't anyone who doesn't appreciate kindness and compassion.
 

 
Part of my life's philosophy is to practice kindness as much as I possibly can on any given day.  My random act of kindness occurred by accident or divine chance...as I was paying for sandwiches for my husband and me, an extra sandwich was added to my bill...I turned to the lady behind me and said "Have a nice day" she said "are you sure?"  I said, "Yes, and just pass it forward"  Hopefully, she will...  Happy Birthday Dalai Lama...we draw strength from your example of love, peace, perseverance and light!  One Love.

Life is a Cabaret!

My evil twin (aka the Diva) and I enjoyed a wonderful evening together. We began with beverages and bang bang shrimp at Bonefish followed by an outstanding performance of "Cabaret" at the Koger Center.

I had seen the movie version starring Liza Minelli, many, many years ago...as I started watching the performance...I was somewhat uncomfortable thinking of where it was going...1930's Germany, the stirrings of a new political party and all the hate that would result from a new Germany. I am half German and for some odd reason I feel ashamed of the Holocaust...my mother was a very, very small child neither of us would in any way have been responsible for the actions of the Nazis. I often hear people say that such an event could never occur again...yet it does, human bondage and genocide continue to plague the world even in 2010. People allow themselves to be swayed by charismatic speakers be it the media or savvy politicians and then quietly go about their business turning a deaf ear and a blind eye to the atrocities right around the corner.

Back to the performance...the music, dancing and acting were fabulous! Life is a Cabaret old chum, come to the Cabaret...where everyone is beautiful and life is one big party where reality can be ignored. Leben und las Leben (live and let live) is frequently recited throughout the performance as well as a musical number about seeing one's love through one's eyes rather than what society sees. (for the most part this is the credo which I strive to live). An engagement is broken off due to one being Jewish (Herr Schultz) and the other being German (Frau Schneider)and as the man says I am Jewish and I am a German. Heartbreaking, I tell you, to watch and to know that in history this played out more often than not. The point is brought up that if you DO NOT STAND AGAINST something, or do nothing...you in fact allow or support those actions...or as I believe Mark Twain said, " if you don't stand for something you will fall for anything" The theatre attendees were quite the subdued lot as each filtered out of the Koger Center and back to their lives. At the heart of it...Cabaret is a love story... with all the wonderful, fun things life has to offer...and it is a story of a darker, more sinister and brutally evil reality. In all things, there is opposition...how we choose to react or ignore those facts is our challenge...I hope we each choose wisely!

POTW ~ HOME

HOME is...

more about a feeling than an actual location or structure...a place of comfort, warmth and peace...
a gathering place for those we love...our Heart Space...familiar sights and smells...welcoming to friends and strangers...a place of spirit, love and laughter...a warm embrace...a kindly smile...food for body and soul...where we hang our hats...take off our shoes...sort our sorrows and multiply our JOY!

Change for Chad

CHAD - Charitable Hands Are Divine
Date: Monday, April 20, 2009
Time: 5:30pm - 6:45pm
Location: City Hall
Street: 1737 Main Street
City/Town: Columbia, SC

Five years ago returning to college, Chad was in a fatal automobile accident. In rememberance of their eldest son, Bobby and Lisa Radvansky started an organization called "Charitable Hands Are Divine" , the acronymn being CHAD. The goal of "CHAD" was to create scholarships, to create a desire in people to perform acts of kindness and to become involved in their communities. Lisa assists others suffering from tragic events in their lives. Bobby is always on hand to lend a hand. Recently Bobby, (Bob to some) was on a local radio station and the "interview" lent itself to creating a larger vision for the community on a much grander scale than the Lugoff-Elgin, Camden area. I would encourage you to attend the meeting tomorrow evening as I think some great things are about to happen. The mayor of Columbia is on board and wants to see individuals show more kindness to one another...to help their neighbors...after all, we ARE our brothers keepers.

I remember Chad as a polite young man I taught in Sunday School. My daughters remember Chad as fine looking, charismatic, fun guy to hang out with at church and other activities. I am supporting this effort in rememberance of Chad and because Bobby and Lisa are wonderful friends with a great vision! Life is Good...let us all help our "brothers" along the path! Hope to see you tomorrow evening!

Namaste

I have been thinking a LOT about blogging, emails and all the messages we send that do not really have a "face" or an expression attached. When emailing or blogging what we may think is humerous may indeed come across as something entirely different to the reader. I sincerely hope that in the course of blogging, emailing or commenting that I have been circumspect. Being inappropriate has never been a goal of mine. I have recently gotten the impression that I may have offended someone along the way. For this, I am sincerely and wholeheartedly sorry. I write what is on my mind at the time and have never felt the need for an apology for how I think...I don't edit, I write from the "cuff". I think the internet is a wonderful source of communication, entertainment and information...I have been naive in thinking that I could "talk" to the "blogging, facebook, email" world the way I talk with friends that know me in the flesh. I have taken a step back from all things that communicate who I am...what started out as a fun, inspirational journey has backfired a wee bit. My goal in this life is to be the most authentic version of myself that I can be, to love and to serve my fellowman and to be grateful to my Father in Heaven for the many blessings showered upon me. There is opposition in all things however I will continue to write and be positive about Life. Life is Good. After the darkness, there is light...after the rain, rainbows and so on and on. We are touched by people for varying lengths of time and for various reasons. I thank each of you for your contributions to my life and sincerely hope that I have contributed somewhat to yours. From Wikipedia:

Namaste, Namaskar or Namaskaram (Sanskrit: नमस्ते [nʌmʌsˈteː] from external sandhi between namaḥ and te) is a common spoken greeting or salutation in the Indian subcontinent. Taken literally, it means "I bow to you". The word is derived from Sanskrit (namas): to bow, obeisance, reverential salutation, and (te): "to you".[1] Namaskar is considered a slightly more formal version than namaste but both express deep respect. It is commonly used in India and Nepal by Hindus, Jains and Buddhists, and many continue to use this outside the Indian subcontinent.

When spoken to another person, it is commonly accompanied by a slight bow made with hands pressed together, palms touching and fingers pointed upwards, in front of the chest. The gesture can also be performed wordlessly and carry the same meaning.
In Indian and Nepali culture, the word is spoken at the beginning of written or verbal communication. However, upon departure only the wordless hands-folded gesture is made.
In yoga, namaste is said to mean "The light within me honors the light within you," as spoken by both the yoga instructor and yoga students.

Without further ado, the light within me honors the light within you.

The Light Will Come

It's easy to fall into fear and despair regarding the depressing economic news, but it's important to remember that spiritual principle transcends all that. God's laws are higher than economic laws, and God never goes into a recession.
Marianne Williamson

Fear is an illusion. Our craziness, paranoia, anxiety, and trauma are literally all imagined. That is not to say they don't exist for us as human beings. They do. But our fear is not our ultimate reality, and it does not replace the truth of who we really are.
—Excerpted from A Return to Love: Reflections on the Principles of A Course in Miracles

There is a crack in everything. That's how the light gets in. (unknown)

One of my favorite songs by singer, songwriter, Michael McLean states...hold on the light will come...

As we are stumbling through the darkness we must hold onto the surety that we are loved and that we are so much more than our problems and concerns...everything is a test...some days the test is a piece of cake...other days, not so much. The key is to take the trials and learn from them and move on...there is ALWAYS "a light at the end of the tunnel"

I find that when I close in on myself and stay in the dark...my spirit shrinks. When I choose to open the windows of my soul, express joy and love...my spirit expands and soars!

My plan for the weekend is to "get out" of the house, so to speak and expand my spirit in whatever way is presented.

We live in uncertain times...we have trials and troubles...joy and happiness still abound, sometimes we have to dig a little deeper to experience Life to its fullest!

I saw a card recently that basically had someone jumping for joy and it said "Any day above the ground is a GOOD day!

My soul longs for the sea...a walk along the shore casting troubles out with the waves...yep...maybe this stinking cough will go out to sea as well. May each of you feel loved, feel joy and have a most wonderful weekend. God has created a beautiful world for us and for this I am deeply grateful!!!

(photos were taken by me on various trips to the Florida and South Carolina coasts)

Box Full of Kisses

One of our first Christmas celebrations in Columbia, South Carolina. Dad was stationed at Fort Jackson Military Post and we lived in the apartments just off the post. This was Baby Boo, when you pulled out the pacifier, she boo hooed like crazy!!! I think my mom eventually gave her away. I loved that doll so much!

The smallest girl child would never smile for pictures. I often wondered what was going through her head. She probably wished her Mom would quit "taping" bows to her head! This was a time when they still allowed me to choose their clothes!

In my wanderings out and about I become so distressed and dismayed when parents are yelling and jerking their exhausted children around. With all the excitement and hullabaloo...children are out of their routine, they are tired, hungry and can be whiny...take them home parents...let them play and rest!!! How sad that they become a sounding board for angry, frustrated parents. I just want to scoop them up and take them home...eat popcorn, watch movies and trash the kitchen! My grandchildren frequently visit and the house is never the same... it takes hours to restore it back to "normal" but it is just stuff...the time spent with the kids is priceless.
My tree is more "decorator" style than homemade nowadays, however nothing on that tree means more to me than each child's delight as they look at it and maybe touch the ornaments. It is stuff...feelings are more important! So feel free to come on over and put your feet on the coffee table...provided you don't have on muddy boots! I came across a story similar to the one below several years ago and it sums up some of my feelings about "stuff"

A Box Full of Kisses

The story goes that some time ago, a man punished his 3-year-old daughter for wasting a roll of gold wrapping paper. Money was tight and he became infuriated when the child tried to decorate a box to put under the Christmas tree. Nevertheless, the little girl brought the gift to her father the next morning and said, "This is for you, Daddy." The man was embarrassed by his earlier overreaction, but his anger flared again when he found out the box was empty. He yelled at her, stating, "Don't you know, when you give someone a present, there is supposed to be something inside? The little girl looked up at him with tears in her eyes and cried, "Oh, Daddy, it's not empty at all. I blew kisses into the box. They're all for you, Daddy." The father was crushed. He put his arms around his little girl, and he begged for her forgiveness.

In a very real sense, each one of us, as humans beings, have been given a gold container filled with unconditional love and kisses... from our children, family members, friends, and God. There is simply no other possession, anyone could hold, more precious than this.

Lessons from the Diva

Happy Birthday to the Diva...September 7...no current pictures from recent celebration as the floozies are being slackers and have not sent them to me! Love Ya'll anyway! We celebrated the Diva's birthday at Travinia's in true floozie fashion. A fun time was had by all. I have known Paula, aka as "The Diva" aka as my evil twin (some days I am the evil twin) The evil twin misnomer came by way of the Diva's students thinking we were sisters...we are sisters in spirit! I have known Paula approximately fifteen years...our daughters are the same age and quite frequently could be seen together. We have experienced grief, tragedy, divorces, joy, laughter, a series of adventures, workouts and everything in between! Paula came by the nickname Diva for a number of reasons, the main one being a mutual friend had a sign made for Paula referring to the Diva and the rest as they say is history or herstory! Paula has always been a swan, it took her a few years to totally embrace her beautiful persona. This is the woman my husband would leave me for if she were to have him, just kidding. Carl loves being around Paula but so do alot of other men, sorry Tom! In honor of this zany, crazy beautiful friend I have compiled a list of lessons learned from the Diva:

• You don't have to have a beautiful solo voice to sing in a choir, it's fun and it takes many voices to create a beautiful sound.
• Birthdays are too special to celebrate for just one day.
• Feathers and sparkles are a good thing.
• You can never have enough feathers, sparkles, black pants and tops.
• A little jewelry is great, more jewelry is better
• More is more!
• The joy of jacuzzi ownership
• Shopping is a good thing... it stimulates the economy
• Sometimes you have to let go of "friends" that drag you down or require more than you are willing or able to give or "cost" your well being in some way
• To enjoy excellent meals with good friends
• How to be a great hostess
• You can never have too many flamingos (that is a story for another day, while Kendall is responsible for the Diva thing alas I am responsible for the beginning of the Flamingo epidemic
• It's okay to be forked (not what you think, again a story for another post)
• Be Yourself and true to yourself, if someone doesn't like it...they are missing out
• Everyone is a potential friend
• The higher the hair the better

I could mention a few more things however the Diva is already very comfortable being fabulous...we wouldn't want her to get a "big head" The best lesson of all LIVE BIG OR GO HOME!!! So, again wishing the Diva a wonderful Birthday Month and then some. Much love from all your floozie friends!

"The Knitting Girl" Adolphe-William Bouguereau (1825 - 1905)

Any woman who sews or knits, or weaves, blends colors in a tapestry or creates a patchwork quilt, knows by the feel that a single thread is weak but the weaving, the blending, the interwining with many others makes it strong.

Any woman alone without friends to sustain her, to nurture and support, to hold with loving arms, like a single thread, is weak. But the weaving, the loving, the nurturing of others, the networks of friendship makes her strong.

Barbara, 1994 The Kinship of Women (Maryjane's ideabook*cookbook*lifebook - MaryJane Butters)

We are all connected by virtue of our humanity. When surrounded by joy we can feel joy, when surrounded by despair we can feel despair. Let us be our "brothers keeper", spread our own measure of joy to those around us!

P.S. "Confetti Scarf" is on the way to Dishy! I will be making more scarves soon as it is a form of meditation for me...I already have one for every day of the week...email me if you would like one and we'll see what we can do!

Peace Symbol Turns 50

The peace symbol turned 50 in April. It was originally designed to protest nuclear disarmament in the United Kingdom. The brainchild of Gerald Holtom, artist and WWII conscientious objector, the peace symbol was a result of his despair over nuclear weaponry.

“The symbol itself is a combination of the semaphoric signals for the letters "N" and "D," standing for Nuclear Disarmament. You can read more about the story at : http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2008/03/23/sunday/main3960390.shtml

I remember the peace symbol of my childhood, a colorful symbol of protest against the Vietnam War. Many people made disparaging remarks about the symbol even going as far as calling it the sign of Satan. I was of an age where I did not really care too much about protest I just enjoyed drawing the symbols on any and everything! I was reading a magazine and it pointed out the 50th anniversary of the peace symbol. Apparently several designers are creating jewelry and other accessories to commemorate the event. As my dear friends know, I am all about anything 50! I think the symbol remains a timeless reminder of peace. Our world is still rife with war and social injustice. It saddens me to see so much struggle between people. The best I can offer is to be a peaceful person. There are many, many people striving each day to live in gratitude, love and peace. I choose to be one of this group and hopefully set an example for those whom are less peaceful. Daily, I receive negative emails, encounter dismal news stories and encounter less than polite people. I can choose how I respond and what I allow in my environment. I choose P*E*A*C*E !!! So let's start our own peace movement...

Work in Progress

Organic Cotton Washcloth knitted in a basket weave pattern. I had to concentrate and count! Washcloths are particularly good things to make when attempting new patterns as they are small and you will not pull your hair out when you must unravel the knitting due to gaping holes or such. The organic cotton yarn feels like a dream and these make particularly good face cloths as the cloths gently exfoliate your skin! I am pleased with this particular one as it turned out to be relatively square and does not resemble its deformed partners.

I did my insomnia thing this morning around 4 a.m. which is too early to get up but too late to get any more restful sleep. Rather than turn the television on and watch something totally inappropriate I decided I would finish the "confetti" scarf. When using this incredibly fun yarn and using a simple stitch, the whole activity becomes more like a meditation. The clicking of the needles, the movement of the yarn from one side to the other. I read something about knitting prayer shawls that suggested you say a prayer before you knit something for the "recipient". I do not sell many scarves mainly because a little portion of my heart goes into each one. A friend commissioned me to make scarves as Christmas gifts one year and determining the cost was very difficult. The work is labor intensive, the cost of materials is high when not purchased from a wholesaler and last of all, how does one price the little part of your spirit that goes into each item one crafts? So Dishy, I promised you a scarf, what do you think of the "confetti" scarf?" It is fun and youthful. Or would you prefer something thicker and more organic? This scarf needs a home, so leave a comment and I will allow my grandchildren to choose a name out of a hat! Tonight I will begin with the first of 50 chemotherapy caps...Needles for Noodles, as Hayden calls it, she is so clever with words! Originally I thought I would knit 50 of the same kind of cap but in different colors and textures. However, I found the cutest hat pattern, courtesy of Soulemama. I think she would be delighted to know her pattern will grace the head of someone that will deeply appreciate wearing such a cute cap. I also have a circular loom which makes a nice thick hat and may use it as well. I am excited and delighted with the Needles for Noodles project. Feel free to join us in this fun effort! Some people knit, some crochet and I have seen a vast array of sewn turbans, scarves and other head gear. Whatever your talent, let's share our "wealth" and pay it forward.

I AM NOT MY BOOBS!

It was that time again. It was put off as long as possible. Sigh, the "girls" needed some support. I would ALMOST rather have a root canal than to shop for bras. Oprah endorses her favorite as do many other celebrities. I have not found the ideal bra yet. I often wonder if these devices were originally designed by men to "keep us in place". Bras, for most of us, are a necessary evil! They keep the girls supported and they keep us modest. There are so many issues involved when shopping for the dreaded bras. Fit, comfort...straps that stay put, a back that doesn't ride up, no pinching or stabbing anywhere. I remember thinking that I would never have anything to fit into a real bra. A training bra sufficed until I was about 17 years old. A late bloomer...but when they bloomed...the rest is herstory. I wanted to feel pretty and at the time the options for larger breasts were pretty much limited to the Playtex, Cross Your Heart bras. During my twenties I often wanted to wear a shirt with an arrow pointing to my face. I wanted my male employers to acknowledge that I had a brain. At times I wanted to shout "I am not my Boobs!" Approaching 50, I just look at them and sigh! Gravity is not kind. My husband on the other hand is a happy man. (sorry kids, that's all I'll say) Coming to terms with who I am...I have changed the way I dress. I have given up the t-shirts to the neck with jean jumpers or anything that approaches my neck too closely. While trying to draw attention away from my chest, my clothes made everything appear larger. My look is mostly v-necks and lots of black but with a softer look! I like it.

I have been thinking about breasts due in part to several friends that have suffered the effects of breast cancer. These brave women have undergone surgery, chemotherapy and all the emotional effects of this disease. One of my friends related that every time she told someone she had breast cancer people would automatically look at her chest. Our breasts should not define who we are as women.

Recently I made the acquaintance of a wonderful woman that decided to have her silicone implants removed. She emphatically stated that she did not wish to have "these things" anymore. Who decides what is enough? This lovely lady decided to be true to herself and no one else. Bravo for You, J!

In honor of breast cancer awareness some time ago I e-mailed my friends an article written by a nurse describing how to "Phluff the Girls". Monthly breast exams are critical, yet how many actually take the time to do so? "Phluffing the Girls" has numerous other benefits for breast health according to the article. Look it over at http://www.cherylchapman.com/pdf/phluff.pdf

Big or Small, Perky or Not...our breasts are just our breasts and not a measure of who we are as individuals. The sum of all your parts makes up YOU! You are unique and beautiful, a creation of the most high God!

I SEE THE MOON AND THE MOON SEES ME!

My pitiful attempt at capturing the most glorious full moon. It was so beautiful last night. I attended our monthly book club meeting which is always, always a good time. A group of people who love to read, discussing, laughing and just having a great time! My grandchildren are learning very early to love books! Little Miss Anna attended book club last night. I rode with her in the backseat...on the way home we looked for the moon, she was soooo excited every time she spotted it. I remember reading Good Night Moon by Margaret Wise Brown to my children every night for what seemed like years. The words "I see the moon and the moon sees me" popped in my head and I was reciting parts of the book for Anna. Every time she would spot the moon she would say "I see the moon and the moon sees me". My daughter called me and asked if I would take some pictures from my house as I have such a clear view of the sky. She said that Anna was still looking for the moon and kept talking about it. I tried many attempts at stabilizing the camera (I need a tripod or a better camera) I finally retrieved a blanket from the garage and just sprawled out on the lawn. DH was in the garage working on a new airplane...sigh. I cannot begin to describe the loveliness of lying on the grass looking at the night sky. It reminded me of childhood drive-in movies and yard camping.

I have been "coming out" of my cocoon at a very alarming rate. The revelations, ideas and epiphanies that are swarming through my brain are astounding and exhilarating...stay tuned for this crazy journey! I feel like I have been asleep at the wheel and am waking up to a whole new world!!! What truly amazes me is my strong desire to be outdoors. My children and I spent a great deal of time outside when they were "small". As they got older and went their separate ways and a series of life events occurred I settled indoors and nested. Now it appears I am being kicked out of the nest by my own inner voice! I am excited to wake up in the morning to see how the new day will unfold! Yippee!!!!

FOURTH OF JULY

Tomorrow will be the fourth of July whereby our nation celebrates its independence from tyranny. We must all be thankful for the many blessings we share by living in the United States and having life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness readily available to us. I personally will have a long moment of silence to honor those who serve our country both past and present.

Dear Husband and I may spend the day at the Fogle Family Compound in Neeses, SC. There is a huge convergence of Fogles with singing, eating great food, water sports and much laughter. I still owe Uncle Bobby a couple laps around the pond. Just so you understand the depth of this promise...the pond is a full size, competition sized water skiing, swimming, fishing and boating sized pond!

We will enjoy a 4 day weekend. THANK YOU! I have lots of things to do around the house and I have tons of great books to peruse! YIPPEE!

We will celebrate Chloe's 4th birthday on the 4th. She shares her birthday with her other grandma, so Happy Birthday Chloe and Gayle!!!

Little Miss Firecracker, born on the 4th of July. Full of love, life, joy and laughter!!!


Happy Independence Day to you where ever you may be tomorrow! Have a Great One! Show some sparkle!!!

FRIENDS: I LOVE THEM ALL

The Diva, my evil twin...the woman my husband would leave me for if she would have him!
Her singing voice melts his heart! Since my husband worships and adores me I guess I am safe, mediocre singing voice and all. Paula has a soft, gentle wonderful side that her good friends get to see frequently. The Diva sings, dances and entertains! Paula never meets a stranger! A good time is generally had by all when Paula is around! Often feathers ARE involved and not optional.

Music, music, music...It tames the savage beast, it triggers our deepest memories. I love music just about every kind! My daughters find it highly amusing when "Hey Ya" by Outkast plays on the radio. I HAVE to sing and car dance. It's not pretty but that's how I roll! Friday morning's selection was none other than "The Beatles" Only one of the best bands of ALL TIME!!! I was enjoying the CD so much so I brought it inside and am currently listening while I work, with earplugs, natch. I was listening to the song "In My Life" and it brought to mind the many, many friends I have had in my life and the ones I have now. Some of the lyrics state, some are gone but not forgotten, In My Life, I've Loved them all...I get a teary when I listen...the song reminds me of the blessing of friends. The term friend has so many different meanings and we have different levels of friendships! The Level One friends are people that come into your life and you are NEVER the SAME after knowing them. These are the ones that rather you did not call at 3 A.M. but totally listen to you should you call them at said crazy time. These friends will do ANYTHING for you and YOU will do ANYTHING for them. They love you at your worst! Level Two friends are people you meet up with and have a good time with, you totally enjoy them but probably would not request as much from them as you would expect from Level 1 friends. Level three friends are those you talk to and share email jokes, support what they are doing in their lives...these are the ones you don't see in your day to day life...such as blogging buddies, some you have never met but feel you've known them forever. Anything lower than Level Three is more in the acquaintance category...you are kind...talk to them when you see them but do not go out of your way to be with them. Friendships evolve and change, some for better and sadly, some change due to unfortunate circumstances or misunderstandings. Along with the various levels of friendships, you also have different types of friends such as work friends, book club friends, walking friends or gym friends, dancing friends and so forth. Friends enrich my life so much. I enjoy my down time by myself but nothing beats a friend to hang out and shoot the breeze!

Some are gone but not forgotten...

Dorothy was the type of person that when you met her, your life would NEVER be the same. She was a friend to all especially the animal kingdom! I was fortunate to have her as a BEST friend. I still miss her everyday however am fortunate enough to feel her spirit constantly!

Eddie was just the nicest guy ever. I met him in middle school and we had classes together through tenth grade. He was electrocuted during the Summer after 10th grade while he was working part time. He was shy and quiet. He had the most beautiful smile and smoothest, blemish free skin with the rosiest cheeks. I would not have given him the time of day in high school because I was in my rebel without a cause mode! I was also soooo in love with the guy who would become my first husband. This guy would have been the best boyfriend and husband ever! He was kind, gentle and considerate. He would be the type that would come over when you heard some crazy noise and make sure you are okay and totally not expect something in return.

Time goes on....

I am lucky to have a husband that is my best friend too! He is so funny and entertaining when he isn't annoying me.

Jayne, my church friend evolved to book club friend, walking buddy, shopping pal...one of the wisest, well read, interesting people I know!!! Also known as Marlajayne and Mom's Musings.
Jayne put the "y" in her name because she did not want to be just plain Jane...ya gotta love it.
Kristi started as a church friend, book club friend and has developed into a friendship neither one of us can quite explain. We think the same...which is scary for one or both of us!!! Kristi keeps me sane throughout the day with her funny emails!

One of my greatest joys in life is having my daughters as my friends! We have a great time together and I still tell them what to do...I'm just not responsible for their decisions anymore!

I LOVE Kelly she is one of the most enthusiastic friends. She thinks outside the box, is an excellent teacher (professionally and otherwise), photographer, artist. She keeps life very interesting. Kelly sometimes has to be reeled in...she is sooo crazy...that's why she has a "normal" friend like me to keep her straight! Time for a road trip to Jacksonville!

Level One, Two and Three Friends. Guess which one you are!!! Just amusing myself.... I Love You All!!!




I obviously could put tons and tons of pictures and remarks here about the many people I call friends. I am thankful for EACH and EVERY ONE of YOU!!! Wishing you the most fabulous, wonderful weekend where ever you may be...

Why Did the Chicken Cross the Road?

ARISTOTLE: It is the nature of chickens to cross the road.

Why did the Chicken cross the road? Ah, the age old question. Recently someone sent me a hilarious list of possible reasons "the chicken crossed the road". One indicated that the chicken needed a change. We all know that the other side of the road always looks better than the side on which we are currently standing. We cross over only to find that what we were looking for is not there, the view is just different! I remind myself over and over with a little help from my friends that I have everything I need right in this present moment and within myself. So many people are "unhappy". The key to happiness for me is really very simple. I have a Heavenly Father who loves me and I wish to live by the example shown by his Son, Jesus Christ. I adore my family and enjoy spending time with them. Most of the time, I like who I am!!! If I am having one of those "I don't like myself, pity party kind of days, I do something kind for someone. This immediately removes the focus off of what I am not liking at the time. My friend, Jayne introduced me to a book called "The Four Agreements" by Don Miguel Ruiz and I have found myself repeating those agreements over and over to myself and it really helps me stay focused on what is important! One of these days, I will be "blog" proficient and be able to put links in here correctly! I highly recommend reading "The Four Agreements". I do not tolerate boredom well, so I have little things I do to avoid it:

• I take exotic mini vacations in my mind. Anywhere in the tropics. Meditating on a mountain. Anywhere that gives my mind a momentary rest and change of pace.
• I take alternate routes when going places. I know I am driving the same route too often when I automatically go somewhere and it is not where I intended going!
• I listen to a huge variety of music
• Turn off the television. Too much television creates boredom, dissatisfaction and ennui!
• Learn something new!
• I love to read a wild selection of books. I am not hooked on one genre.
• Play!!! Bubbles are great. Fingerpaints and Playdoh are very therapeutic. Borrow a child if you feel silly doing it by yourself!
• Laugh. Laugh. And Laugh some more! There is humor in just about everything. Don't take yourself so seriously all the time.
• Be a tourist in your own town. I have been amazed seeing something with "fresh eyes"
• Try on clothes that you would not ordinarily wear.
• Clean and Organize. I love the satisfaction of organized closets and shelves.
• Cuddle with someone you Love!

If you are feeling the need to "cross to the other side" I suggest looking around and making a few changes on your side of the road. Sometimes a change of perspective is all that is needed to enhance your day to day existence! If you do cross the road with the chicken, remember we are over here cheering you on when you choose to come back!!! Just don't get stuck in the middle of the road.

Dear Dad

I have been pondering writing a letter to my dad for some time. Hayden wrote one on her blog to her father and inspired me to get on with it! Below is a stroll down memory lane...

This is one of our regular Sunday outings. Dad would take my brother and me to an old fashioned soda fountain and then on to the park and let Mom have a few hours to herself.

I was always Daddy's little girl no matter what my age at the time. He reminded me often.

Dad at Biltmore House and Gardens. Mom, Dad and baby Michelle spent the day here while I was working. My father adored being a grandfather and would put Michelle in his lap and read her the morning newspaper. I believe with all my heart he lived as long as he did because he adored being with her so much. She would go in the house and say "get up Opop." In honor of Father's Day and my Dad's birthday in July...

Dear Dad,

I think of you often with so much love and gratitude. I hope that I told you I love you enough and my actions expressed those feelings. As a parent I appreciate that you were an awesome Dad. You are the inspiration for the better choices that I have made in my life. I wished I had listened to you about computers because you sure nailed that one!!! You were the steadfast, calm and reasonable part of my childhood. A perfect foil to the "craziness" that was Mom. I remember how hard it was for you to punish us. I realize now that it was acutely painful for you, however, whatever form that punishment took, you knew that it must be meted out. I hated disappointing you. I remember thinking Mom's beating with the wooden spoon and yelling was over and done with very quickly. You would talk and talk and talk and look so sad. I learned honesty and responsibility for my actions due to some of your "punishments." Particularly the time I tried to blame Jimmy for something that was my fault. You embraced King Solomon's wisdom in dealing with that situation by allowing the responsible party to step up. I loved you and I adored Jimmy and I could not bear the responsibility of my little brother suffering the punishment you had in mind for both of us until somebody confessed and made it right. I have never forgotten that experience. Thanks for being home every night to sit down with the family to have dinner and talk about the day. We generally tackled you the minute you walked in the door and you wrestled, tickled and tossed us around until dinner was ready never complaining that you were tired. You were there without fail unless the once in awhile that you had bivouac or the tours to Vietnam that took you away. You sacrificed much for your country and family. Many of the anti-war establishment did not realize what you did for your country and the toll it took on your health. We had a few awkward years when I discovered that you were not my biological father. I pulled away a little out of anger and lack of understanding. I know that you and mom thought it was in my best interest. It never occurred to you guys that it would come up when I needed a birth certificate to get my driver's license and I could read German! You told me that I was extra special because you chose me. I thank you for loving me so very much. There were times when I thought Mom was really cold and I think you made up for that. You would be happy to know that she and I have sorted our differences and we actually enjoy one another's company. She did tell me the circumstances of my conception and possible termination and that once she saw me she was glad that she decided to keep me. After all these years, I understood her anger and why I would be a constant reminder of that night when she was powerless. You were the perfect mate for her. You calmed her fears and made her feel secure. You often worked two jobs after you retired from the Army to make sure that all our needs were met. Thank you for always putting us first above anything else. I often look at pictures and get so amused at your outfits! I now know you did that to annoy Mom. She has had a couple of boyfriends but has never re-married, she always says she would never find another man as good as you. I think she regrets not telling you more often. Thank you for helping my husband and I get a good start by loaning him the money to start his own business. He is still very successful at that endeavor. We are not married anymore, I don't know if he remembers everything you did for us, but I do and I will always be grateful for the faith you had in us. I am so sorry you had to suffer so badly with your health. I remember spending many times at the hospital, year after year. I know this truly frustrated you. To be such a visionary and to not have the strength to make those dreams happen. I can't see an episode of M*A*S*H and not think of you and the evenings we spent eating popcorn and watching television together, just you and I. When I am troubled I am sure you hear me because I still talk to you. Christmas eve is still difficult for me even after 25 years. There are things that come up and I tell my friends, "you know sometimes a girl just needs her dad." I can't remember your faults, I know you weren't perfect but you were as close as it gets. I realize not all fathers are like you and I was extremely fortunate that you "picked" me! Thank you so much for everything you meant to me and to the other lives you touched. Happy Father's Day and I Love You, Always!!!

P.S. I also remember all of your really corny jokes and songs!

Get Your Glow On

Just as I am convinced in a Heavenly Father that loves us, lights the way for us, joy to surround us and people to love us; I am equally sure that the Father of lies, contention, chaos and disorder is alive and well and seeks to disrupt our lives in whatever form is available. Some examples include contentious people, mean people, "gossipy" people, misfortune and a myriad host of frustrations. Fortunately, the Great Big Dreams retreat I attended has fueled me with strength, peace and a sense of clarity. I felt a definate shift in my mind and heart being around such a strong group of supportive, loving woman. Despite all the well being and calm, Monday dawned bright but quickly took a downward turn through a mass of mis-communications, irritations, and several other disquieting episodes. I wish to live an authentic life, being true to myself, and having authentic friends whom embody the same beliefs.
After a fairly "crazy" day I was able to talk to some friends that I consider bringers of light in a less than perfect world. I want loving, nurturing, supportive people around me!!! People that sustain you, care for you and shelter you against the storms of life.

To the naysayers and harbingers of contention, I say "Leave My Glow Alone!!!" I wish to be impeccable with my word which means I will not participate in collusion and I will speak the truth. To those that wish to force their opinion on me or fix my life or the lives of those around them, because they feel their way is better...leave our glow alone...we are fine without you. Fix Yourself!!! And I send them blessings of love and peace. We can embrace peace, joy and love bringing light to those around us or we can encourage the darkness, I, for one, say BRING ON THE LIGHT!!! How about you, are you spreading LIGHT?

Kickin It Old School

Birth name
Carole Klein
Born
February 9, 1942 (1942-02-09) (age 66)
Origin
New York City, New York, United States
Genre(s)
RockPopJazz
Occupation(s)
Singer-songwriter
Instrument(s)
Piano, vocals, guitar
Years active
1958 – present
Label(s)
Rockingale

Website
CaroleKing.com


Beautiful

You've got to get up every morning With a smile on your face
And show the world all the love in your heart
The people gonna treat you better
You're gonna find, yes you will
That you're beautiful as you feel
Waiting at the station with a workday wind a-blowing
I've got nothing to do but watch the passers-by
Mirrored in their faces I see frustration growing
And they don't see it showing, why do I?
You've got to get up every morning With a smile on your face
And show the world all the love in your heart
The people gonna treat you better
You're gonna find, yes you will
That you're beautiful as you feel
I have often asked myself for reason for sadness
In a world where tears are just a lullabye
If there's any answer, maybe love can end the madness
Maybe not, oh, but we can only try
You've got to get up every morning With a smile in your face
And show the world all the love in your heart
The people gonna treat you better
You're gonna find, yes you will
That you're beautiful as you feel

Someone please remind me not to partake in sugar, chocolate, caffeine etc. Why are they so deceptive, look so good, taste so good and then BAM...miserable night...massive weird dreams...drag myself "out o bed" my body protesting every second of it. There is only one cure for this type of overindulgence...throw some water on your face, hit the open road sans top (car top) and play some empowering music really, really LOUD! And sing really, really LOUD! Fake it till you make it Baby! I like a lot of new music but you just can't beat the "oldies" for a good time. Carole King really belts them out and I love it! The Tapestry album is by far my favorite. The song "Beautiful" never fails to lift me up. Smile at people with your whole face, let them see the joy and love radiating out from you. Often you can melt the strongest holdouts. The world is full of madness, just turn on the television or read the papers. Each one of us can do our part to make our little corner a bit of Heaven on Earth or Utopia, Shangri-La, whatever you care to call it. It starts with you. If you're not in the mood, try "kickin it old school" with me!