Has anyone read the Waste Land by T.S. Eliot? He wrote if for Ezra Pound. The poem is riddled with symbolism. "April is the cruelest month," is just the beginning of the first line of the poem. I too, sometimes think April is the cruelest month, at least until I get focused on the really important things in life.
Three years ago, in April, I hit a car. Yes, you read that correctly. The car did not hit me...I ran into it. I did not see it. I know a car is big, but not on this particular day. I was not hurt, just extremely embarrassed. The poor woman driving the car was more shook up. I couldn't tell if I could hear her heart beating...or mine.
I tried to rationalize the incident. After all, how could I admit that I did not see 4,000 pounds of mobility? I will say that it was a silver car and we had recently Sprung Forward, so I blamed it on the lighting. I did not hear it because it was a newer car.
When I arrived at work. One of my co-workers knew I was upset. She had never seen me even remotely emotional. I blamed that on menopause. It certainly seemed fitting. Later, I had to admit that I had been batted around by menopause for the previous six years.
The cold April showers cleared away my illusions and I had to face the truth. I had an issue that I referred to as a minor inconvenience that needed to be addressed. In reality, the car was not the obstacle...my denial was.
I have to say, that most mishaps now are comical and the ones that are not, are at least entertaining. I am just warning all of you, that you never know what I might do next. I don't even know. I have a new cane, that I refer to as Sidekick. I only use it if I have to. On bright sunny days he comes out to play and sometimes when the shadows aren't playing nice. He seemed to have come with another new friend, the tenebrous cloud who follows to my right. I will name him soon. The names I am coming up with now seem rather harsh.
April is cruel for other reasons too, but that is a blog post for another day. On a positive note, April also brings renewed life and lilacs. I love lilacs.
I messaged back and forth recently with a child hood friend and so many memories came flooding back. I had to smile. It also made me realize that I need to write some of these memories down, while I still can remember so much detail. I could write forever...and then I remember forever is not really that long. One memory led to another and the writing began.
Recalling those memories, makes me picture a beautiful, giant quilt showcasing in its majestic splendor an array of photos of family and friends both new and old. I will write about that later.
May your April be just a stepping stone of things yet to be and a quiet time of renewal.
Until, I find the pen again...
Sunday, April 6, 2014
Sunday, March 9, 2014
Angels and Challenges!
Since my last blog post many things have happened. Most were good, some were absolutely amazing and all were educational!
I don't know if it has been the weather or if I have found myself in a rut, but I am an adrenaline junkie and I am bored. I decided it will be fun to try to do one thing each month, that I have never done before. I have also added to learn one new thing each month.
There is this really cool challenge in China, first you get to climb the Heavenly Stairs of Mt. Hua Shan, then you have the opportunity to tackle the world’s most dangerous trail, the Hua Shan plank path. The plank trail leads high up the Hua Shan mountain just outside the city Xi’an.
The stairs themselves are the easiest part of the climb and the secrets and landscape you will view is spectacular. When you get high enough up the mountain you can take a gondola to the plank trail. At the very top of the southern peak is a Taoist temple that was converted into a teahouse. Here is the link to learn more if curiosity should get the best of you http://www.viralnova.com/dangerous-trail-huashan/
Obviously, I am interested. I know it is crazy but.... my friend Cat said she will not climb with me but will meet me at the teahouse at the end of the journey.
She said that when we were angels we could tackle some of the scary, challenging stuff.
Speaking of Angels...there are many here on earth. As you may recall in my last blog post that we did not win the magnifier for Noah, but we had many votes.
Quincy donated a Butterfly Magnifier to Noah and Marion saw its first butterfly of the year and Marion also had the opportunity to see a glimpse of one of the many angels here on earth!
Janice out of the kindness of her heart, will be surprised to learn that the check she sent for anything that Noah might need was just the kick-off to the Noah Fund. See the photos below.
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There are many other angels out there. I would love to acknowledge them all but I do not know all of them personally. I offer a big heart-felt thank you to all of those angels! Ever wonder what I do when I am not dodging puddles and keeping my feet dry? I clean screens and windows...ok if I have to confess, I break windows trying to clean screens. I am not a fan of clear glass.
Had the chance to help celebrate a couple of birthdays...Jenny Collin Hughes and Vallery Donahue!
My father is doing better and my step-mother will be leaving the hospital today.
Please keep all of those struggling in your thoughts and prayers. Next time we will discuss black holes...until then
I don't know if it has been the weather or if I have found myself in a rut, but I am an adrenaline junkie and I am bored. I decided it will be fun to try to do one thing each month, that I have never done before. I have also added to learn one new thing each month.
There is this really cool challenge in China, first you get to climb the Heavenly Stairs of Mt. Hua Shan, then you have the opportunity to tackle the world’s most dangerous trail, the Hua Shan plank path. The plank trail leads high up the Hua Shan mountain just outside the city Xi’an.
The stairs themselves are the easiest part of the climb and the secrets and landscape you will view is spectacular. When you get high enough up the mountain you can take a gondola to the plank trail. At the very top of the southern peak is a Taoist temple that was converted into a teahouse. Here is the link to learn more if curiosity should get the best of you http://www.viralnova.com/dangerous-trail-huashan/
Obviously, I am interested. I know it is crazy but.... my friend Cat said she will not climb with me but will meet me at the teahouse at the end of the journey.
She said that when we were angels we could tackle some of the scary, challenging stuff.
Speaking of Angels...there are many here on earth. As you may recall in my last blog post that we did not win the magnifier for Noah, but we had many votes.
Quincy donated a Butterfly Magnifier to Noah and Marion saw its first butterfly of the year and Marion also had the opportunity to see a glimpse of one of the many angels here on earth!
Janice out of the kindness of her heart, will be surprised to learn that the check she sent for anything that Noah might need was just the kick-off to the Noah Fund. See the photos below.
There are many other angels out there. I would love to acknowledge them all but I do not know all of them personally. I offer a big heart-felt thank you to all of those angels! Ever wonder what I do when I am not dodging puddles and keeping my feet dry? I clean screens and windows...ok if I have to confess, I break windows trying to clean screens. I am not a fan of clear glass.
Had the chance to help celebrate a couple of birthdays...Jenny Collin Hughes and Vallery Donahue!
My father is doing better and my step-mother will be leaving the hospital today.
Please keep all of those struggling in your thoughts and prayers. Next time we will discuss black holes...until then
Saturday, February 22, 2014
Puddles, Muddles and Wet Socks
This month's adventures have kept me busy and amused. As you know by now, it doesn't take much. If we try hard enough I think we can all find something to reflect on each day.
Most of us around here are a little sick of Winter. He has not been overly friendly this year...but he has made himself known, even in Florida.
This year we have had temperatures so low that they have surpassed the temps at the most northern point of Alaska.
Of course we have had snow, record breaking snowfall throughout the country. I see that we are now enjoying water and flooding but the temperatures are warmer, well at least until we see that Polar Vortex that is coming our way. Michigan seems to be reeling in the aftermath from their latest storm.
I spent the last few days walking around puddles.
I have to confess, I would rather be cold than have wet feet. There is something about it that I just cannot stand. I hate it so much that I keep dry socks at work and in my purse. This leads me to one of my latest adventures.
I get up fairly early most mornings. Slacker is my alarm clock and when I am lucky he lets me sleep until about 5 thirty am, if I scold him he lets me rest for about 5 additional minutes. This was the case on Tuesday.
I got up and fed the felines and headed for the coffee pot. I love that first cup or two of coffee in the morning when the house is completely silent and I reflect for a bit and get the day's game plan in order, at least mentally.
As I was looking around, I saw it...there it was in plain sight...a puddle of liquid resting comfortably on my hardwood floor. What was it? Where did it come from? Why was it there?
I walked over to it and around it, I did not want to get my feet wet! I thought I should get that boy of mine up and ask him why he made a mess and didn't clean it up. I could just picture his response too, "Mom, you love your new floor cleaner and I was going to clean it up but I was in the middle of a video game and I forgot."
I sat back down and finished my coffee and then I went to get the mop. I came back to clean up the puddle and that is when it began...yes the new insanity! I pushed that mop through that puddle 10 or 15 times and it was still there. I knelt down and touched it with my hand...because I am NOT going to get my feet wet. It was not wet. It was a shadow.
I am glad that I did not wake Andrew up to clean up his mess. I am more than certain that he is glad that I didn't. He suffers enough.
I now spend my mornings chasing shadows. On a good note they seem to respect my love of quiet in the morning.
Well, we did not win the Video Magnifier for Noah, but certainly not because of lack of effort. I cannot thank you all enough for your votes and support. Don't worry, I have another idea. That little guy will get his magnifier!
Ok, so I named the cane...Stevie Patron, the Peace Keeping Momentary Wonder Cane. If I am in a good mood he goes by Stevie, otherwise he is known as Patron. He was addressed as Patron recently because he didn't see the glass of water either.
I enjoyed lunch with the Star Lunch Ladies and Book Club. We meet for lunch once a month and talk about the book we read and select a new one. Does anyone have any suggestions? Have you read anything good lately?
I enjoyed a visit with a good friend who moved. It was good to hang out with Joey. I will say that I will pass on getting the car stuck again.
I had fun last night at Karaoke with Missy, Dawn and David. It is always good to laugh.
I want to thank everyone for their prayers for my father who was just released from CCU and my step mother Bette who is recovering from emergency surgery. I saw them both on Thursday, and now if they can just behave and slow down they may both get to go home by the end of the month.
Jenny Hughes made a beautiful photo box for me to give to a friend. I can hardly wait to share it with you. I have to give my friend the box first, Hopefully soon!
Until next time :)
Most of us around here are a little sick of Winter. He has not been overly friendly this year...but he has made himself known, even in Florida.
This year we have had temperatures so low that they have surpassed the temps at the most northern point of Alaska.
Of course we have had snow, record breaking snowfall throughout the country. I see that we are now enjoying water and flooding but the temperatures are warmer, well at least until we see that Polar Vortex that is coming our way. Michigan seems to be reeling in the aftermath from their latest storm.
I spent the last few days walking around puddles.
I have to confess, I would rather be cold than have wet feet. There is something about it that I just cannot stand. I hate it so much that I keep dry socks at work and in my purse. This leads me to one of my latest adventures.
I get up fairly early most mornings. Slacker is my alarm clock and when I am lucky he lets me sleep until about 5 thirty am, if I scold him he lets me rest for about 5 additional minutes. This was the case on Tuesday.
I got up and fed the felines and headed for the coffee pot. I love that first cup or two of coffee in the morning when the house is completely silent and I reflect for a bit and get the day's game plan in order, at least mentally.
As I was looking around, I saw it...there it was in plain sight...a puddle of liquid resting comfortably on my hardwood floor. What was it? Where did it come from? Why was it there?
I walked over to it and around it, I did not want to get my feet wet! I thought I should get that boy of mine up and ask him why he made a mess and didn't clean it up. I could just picture his response too, "Mom, you love your new floor cleaner and I was going to clean it up but I was in the middle of a video game and I forgot."
I sat back down and finished my coffee and then I went to get the mop. I came back to clean up the puddle and that is when it began...yes the new insanity! I pushed that mop through that puddle 10 or 15 times and it was still there. I knelt down and touched it with my hand...because I am NOT going to get my feet wet. It was not wet. It was a shadow.
I am glad that I did not wake Andrew up to clean up his mess. I am more than certain that he is glad that I didn't. He suffers enough.
I now spend my mornings chasing shadows. On a good note they seem to respect my love of quiet in the morning.
Well, we did not win the Video Magnifier for Noah, but certainly not because of lack of effort. I cannot thank you all enough for your votes and support. Don't worry, I have another idea. That little guy will get his magnifier!
Ok, so I named the cane...Stevie Patron, the Peace Keeping Momentary Wonder Cane. If I am in a good mood he goes by Stevie, otherwise he is known as Patron. He was addressed as Patron recently because he didn't see the glass of water either.
I enjoyed lunch with the Star Lunch Ladies and Book Club. We meet for lunch once a month and talk about the book we read and select a new one. Does anyone have any suggestions? Have you read anything good lately?
I enjoyed a visit with a good friend who moved. It was good to hang out with Joey. I will say that I will pass on getting the car stuck again.
I had fun last night at Karaoke with Missy, Dawn and David. It is always good to laugh.
I want to thank everyone for their prayers for my father who was just released from CCU and my step mother Bette who is recovering from emergency surgery. I saw them both on Thursday, and now if they can just behave and slow down they may both get to go home by the end of the month.
Jenny Hughes made a beautiful photo box for me to give to a friend. I can hardly wait to share it with you. I have to give my friend the box first, Hopefully soon!
Until next time :)
Saturday, January 18, 2014
Love, Inspire, Encourage and Name the Cane!
Those that know me well know that I love to post about the positives in life. We all need to lift each other up. I thoroughly enjoyed being a participant in Amber Stone Cameron's RWOE#14. If you are not sure what that is, please send me a private message and I will do my best to explain it to you. It was awe inspiring to see those messages around my community. I look forward to next year's event!
I am still trying to win the magnifier for Noah. He is 7 and is struggling with vision loss. I saw him this week. He is truly amazing and entertaining. That boy always makes me smile. He draws me pictures which I proudly hang in my cubicle at work and when there is enough, he and I are going to write a book. He is bubbly and very loving. The world is still a wonder to him and it is beautiful to see it through his eyes.
Noah and I talked about Valentine's Day. He is quite the catch for most little girls. He was sharing some of his girlfriend experiences with me. I had a smile in my heart from his stories that lasted the rest of the day. He is also diabetic. I gave him some heart suckers for his many girlfriends. Of course he has to have his carb count checked before he can have any suckers. Please continue to like my comment on this link so we can win this magnifier for Little Noah.
https://www.facebook.com/?ref=tn_tnmn#!/photo.php?fbid=559085070840465&set=a.341095785972729.80640.296358023779839&type=1&theater
All you have to do is like my comment about what I would do if I won the magnifier. I know that Noah is still in the running. Zoomax holds several contests a year and I know some of the people who have benefited from their technology.
Anyone ever notice that I ramble from one subject to another? That is how my mind works. I am not trying to tell you that it is a good thing but it does keep me entertained.
Things are changing in my life...I would imagine in all of our lives. I know many people that are struggling to overcome grief, illness, relationship issues and life's usual ups and downs. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. My mind never stops. I have been looking for the elusive off switch for years.
I am going to share a story with you from last Sunday. I belong to a C-Group at church and we meet every other Sunday at 6pm. Around 5:30 pm, my seventeen year old son comes up to me and says, "Mom, I have something to tell you, that I don't want to tell you." Of course, my heart dropped to my feet for a few frantic moments and then I prepared myself for the news.
I am so glad that I did not overreact. My son said "Mom, I changed the lightbulb in your bedroom" Of course I thanked him and then he went on to tell me that it had been out for weeks. I said ok. He then asked me if I was trying to conserve energy. Of course we should all try to conserve energy, but somehow I knew this was not where the conversation was going. I said not more than usual and then he went on to tell me that the house was practically pitch black...there were five other light bulbs out and three were in the living room. He was concerned because I did not notice. I did not really have a good response at that moment for him. I told him he could change them.
Suddenly, it all began to make sense. One of my friends came to pick me up earlier in the week and she called when she was in the driveway. She called to make sure I was home. That seemed a bit odd to me and a coworker said to me, is that boy of yours ever home? They questioned these things because from the street my house was pitch black. This all came to me as I was walking to the church.
The meeting went well and I whipped out my cane and started walking home. I had a lot on my mind. I was thinking how hard it must have been for Andy to tell me that I had not noticed the darkness. The darkness did not bother me exactly, but the impact it had on him did! I was thinking about how I was going to handle that when I got home but I kept getting distracted because I felt like someone was following me in a car. I am not a timid person. I could hear the car creeping along but when I tried to see all I could see was the glare from two headlights that looked like a white out. I sensed that they knew that I knew that I was being followed and they turned around and drove off, then when I got closer to my house it appeared that a car was idling in front of my house, its headlights again blinding me, again as I got closer it turned around and drove off. I would think about that later, but first I had to talk to my son.
Well, when I walked through the door it was blinding. Huge amounts of light in the living room since I had just come in from the darkness outside. I knew he was watching me so I went into the my room and changed into shorts and a tank top and went in the living room and sprawled out on the sofa. Of course he asked what I was doing, I told him I was getting a tan and that seemed to be all it took to dissipate the tension.
A couple of people at work seemed to notice a change too and can I tell you how much it amuses me to be studied like I am under a microscope. Just talk to me if you question something. I am using my cane more...not always...but more. I think it is time that I gave it a name besides albatross. Will take suggestions. Post some names for me or send me a private message.
A good friend came to town last night we shared a few laughs and had a great dinner. Marion misses Joey Sink-Oiler as much as she misses Marion. Glad she had a good time. I have another friend celebrating her 50th birthday ( Lois Miller) this weekend. Would love to help her celebrate and will if I can.
I also received a private message from my dear friend Carolyn Thompson Chute. It is precious and a great reminder of how our childhood friends stay with us. Did you know that if you have a friend for seven years you are usually friends for life. I AM SO RICHLY BLESSED!
I have the greatest friends...many are my family. I have been friends with many since my childhood, Cathy, Shirley, Carolyn and many more. God has blessed me with a great group of friends I hang with on a regular basis-Kat, Missy, Pilar, Brad, Beth, Brenda and many more and then there are my newer friends like Quincy, Janice, Jessica, Sarah, Amanda, Tamby, Rob and Wendy who all share the blind crazy train with me and offer great humor and inspiration. I have the cackling hens, and the lunch ladies-half of which helped raise me, lol. Of course I have great family too. I cannot begin to list all of the great friends I have. I know that I am blessed! If THERE IS SO MUCH SUNSHNE IN THE DARKNESS!
I have been writing more poetry lately. It always comes in phases.
After my last post, I asked for everyone's favorite memories from 2013. I am still waiting to hear them. I did receive one from Steve Messenger about our trip to the Beachfront. I have fond memories with Steve and the girls here but would love to hear from more of you for my next post.
Until next time...keep loving one another. Don't forget to learn and inspire each other!
I am still trying to win the magnifier for Noah. He is 7 and is struggling with vision loss. I saw him this week. He is truly amazing and entertaining. That boy always makes me smile. He draws me pictures which I proudly hang in my cubicle at work and when there is enough, he and I are going to write a book. He is bubbly and very loving. The world is still a wonder to him and it is beautiful to see it through his eyes.
Noah and I talked about Valentine's Day. He is quite the catch for most little girls. He was sharing some of his girlfriend experiences with me. I had a smile in my heart from his stories that lasted the rest of the day. He is also diabetic. I gave him some heart suckers for his many girlfriends. Of course he has to have his carb count checked before he can have any suckers. Please continue to like my comment on this link so we can win this magnifier for Little Noah.
https://www.facebook.com/?ref=tn_tnmn#!/photo.php?fbid=559085070840465&set=a.341095785972729.80640.296358023779839&type=1&theater
All you have to do is like my comment about what I would do if I won the magnifier. I know that Noah is still in the running. Zoomax holds several contests a year and I know some of the people who have benefited from their technology.
Anyone ever notice that I ramble from one subject to another? That is how my mind works. I am not trying to tell you that it is a good thing but it does keep me entertained.
Things are changing in my life...I would imagine in all of our lives. I know many people that are struggling to overcome grief, illness, relationship issues and life's usual ups and downs. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. My mind never stops. I have been looking for the elusive off switch for years.
I am going to share a story with you from last Sunday. I belong to a C-Group at church and we meet every other Sunday at 6pm. Around 5:30 pm, my seventeen year old son comes up to me and says, "Mom, I have something to tell you, that I don't want to tell you." Of course, my heart dropped to my feet for a few frantic moments and then I prepared myself for the news.
I am so glad that I did not overreact. My son said "Mom, I changed the lightbulb in your bedroom" Of course I thanked him and then he went on to tell me that it had been out for weeks. I said ok. He then asked me if I was trying to conserve energy. Of course we should all try to conserve energy, but somehow I knew this was not where the conversation was going. I said not more than usual and then he went on to tell me that the house was practically pitch black...there were five other light bulbs out and three were in the living room. He was concerned because I did not notice. I did not really have a good response at that moment for him. I told him he could change them.
Suddenly, it all began to make sense. One of my friends came to pick me up earlier in the week and she called when she was in the driveway. She called to make sure I was home. That seemed a bit odd to me and a coworker said to me, is that boy of yours ever home? They questioned these things because from the street my house was pitch black. This all came to me as I was walking to the church.
The meeting went well and I whipped out my cane and started walking home. I had a lot on my mind. I was thinking how hard it must have been for Andy to tell me that I had not noticed the darkness. The darkness did not bother me exactly, but the impact it had on him did! I was thinking about how I was going to handle that when I got home but I kept getting distracted because I felt like someone was following me in a car. I am not a timid person. I could hear the car creeping along but when I tried to see all I could see was the glare from two headlights that looked like a white out. I sensed that they knew that I knew that I was being followed and they turned around and drove off, then when I got closer to my house it appeared that a car was idling in front of my house, its headlights again blinding me, again as I got closer it turned around and drove off. I would think about that later, but first I had to talk to my son.
Well, when I walked through the door it was blinding. Huge amounts of light in the living room since I had just come in from the darkness outside. I knew he was watching me so I went into the my room and changed into shorts and a tank top and went in the living room and sprawled out on the sofa. Of course he asked what I was doing, I told him I was getting a tan and that seemed to be all it took to dissipate the tension.
A couple of people at work seemed to notice a change too and can I tell you how much it amuses me to be studied like I am under a microscope. Just talk to me if you question something. I am using my cane more...not always...but more. I think it is time that I gave it a name besides albatross. Will take suggestions. Post some names for me or send me a private message.
A good friend came to town last night we shared a few laughs and had a great dinner. Marion misses Joey Sink-Oiler as much as she misses Marion. Glad she had a good time. I have another friend celebrating her 50th birthday ( Lois Miller) this weekend. Would love to help her celebrate and will if I can.
I also received a private message from my dear friend Carolyn Thompson Chute. It is precious and a great reminder of how our childhood friends stay with us. Did you know that if you have a friend for seven years you are usually friends for life. I AM SO RICHLY BLESSED!
I have the greatest friends...many are my family. I have been friends with many since my childhood, Cathy, Shirley, Carolyn and many more. God has blessed me with a great group of friends I hang with on a regular basis-Kat, Missy, Pilar, Brad, Beth, Brenda and many more and then there are my newer friends like Quincy, Janice, Jessica, Sarah, Amanda, Tamby, Rob and Wendy who all share the blind crazy train with me and offer great humor and inspiration. I have the cackling hens, and the lunch ladies-half of which helped raise me, lol. Of course I have great family too. I cannot begin to list all of the great friends I have. I know that I am blessed! If THERE IS SO MUCH SUNSHNE IN THE DARKNESS!
I have been writing more poetry lately. It always comes in phases.
After my last post, I asked for everyone's favorite memories from 2013. I am still waiting to hear them. I did receive one from Steve Messenger about our trip to the Beachfront. I have fond memories with Steve and the girls here but would love to hear from more of you for my next post.
Until next time...keep loving one another. Don't forget to learn and inspire each other!
Wednesday, January 1, 2014
Peace, Love and Happiness!
Happy New Year Everyone! I hope the new year brings you peace, love and happiness!
Emptied my Memory/Thought Jar today. Billows of confetti-like strips grace my desk. So many things to be grateful for. I am abundantly blessed!
Great memories of times shared with Cathy, Joey, Kathy, Missy, Brenda, Beth, Lois, Marcela, Maria, Brad, Bobby, Libby and many others.
Enjoyed some great lunches, memories and laughs with Carol, Bev Shane, Bev Sisler, Nancy, Sharon and others.
30 Year High School Reunion! Family Reunions! Fellowship, companionship and so much more.
Fantastic birthday celebrations with friends and family. Enjoyed wild times with the Cackling Hens...and you know who you are!
A moment of pride and joy...my son's graduation.
My first game of pool with a white cane cue stick. My new and old friends that all ride the crazy train...with me!
Precious words of encouragement. Sweeter memories with friends. I could go on and on.
Love the memories in this jar and look forward to the memories I will be placing in the new one.
I ended the year by finishing a series of poetry that I struggled with finding a way to finish. Next project is already underway.
My goals for this year are fairly simple...remind myself and others to enjoy life and to love one another; find something positive every single day; learn something new each day; offer daily words of encouragement; give a little more and love a lot! Write more blog posts.
Next adventures: Sculpting blindfolded, participating in Random Words of Kindness, winning a video magnifier for Noah, walking on the beach, skydiving and making even more great memories with families and friends.
Sunday, December 22, 2013
Love One Another
It is three days before Christmas Morn, I sit here with my thinking cap on. It has replaced the elf hat, I had on yesterday.
Since my last post many things have happened in the lives of my family, friends, the community and the world at large.
I had the honor of celebrating the birthday of a dear friend. We love you Libby. I also shared in the excitement of another friend who became a United States Citizen. Congratulations Marcela!
I witnessed another friend, take a chance on trust and love...you know who you are.
I spoke with others about their unique talents, the ones that they cannot yet see for themselves. Is it lack of confidence or just blindness?
Yet, another friend is stuggling with the life challenge of retirement. Amidst the excitement of this new chapter in her life, there is the fear of the unknown. My advice, Janice is that you look at the future as a brand new canvas and get the watercolors out. Paint your own rainbow!
I have observed those struggling with life's obstacles and admire their determination, courage and postiive attitudes. They are my inspiration!
I too, am tired of hearing the debates about Phil Robertson. Yes, he has a right to his opinion. Do we have to agree or disagree? Here is how I look at it, there are many things in the Bible that are intepreted in different ways by different people but we must not forget that the Bible is really a great love story about God's great love for us. Afterall, he sacrificed His only son for us, so that we could have eternal life. When tempers flare read Paul or try a few of these verses out. I am not an expert on the Bible but these are a few verses that come to mind.
Since my last post many things have happened in the lives of my family, friends, the community and the world at large.
I had the honor of celebrating the birthday of a dear friend. We love you Libby. I also shared in the excitement of another friend who became a United States Citizen. Congratulations Marcela!
I witnessed another friend, take a chance on trust and love...you know who you are.
I spoke with others about their unique talents, the ones that they cannot yet see for themselves. Is it lack of confidence or just blindness?
Yet, another friend is stuggling with the life challenge of retirement. Amidst the excitement of this new chapter in her life, there is the fear of the unknown. My advice, Janice is that you look at the future as a brand new canvas and get the watercolors out. Paint your own rainbow!
I have observed those struggling with life's obstacles and admire their determination, courage and postiive attitudes. They are my inspiration!
I too, am tired of hearing the debates about Phil Robertson. Yes, he has a right to his opinion. Do we have to agree or disagree? Here is how I look at it, there are many things in the Bible that are intepreted in different ways by different people but we must not forget that the Bible is really a great love story about God's great love for us. Afterall, he sacrificed His only son for us, so that we could have eternal life. When tempers flare read Paul or try a few of these verses out. I am not an expert on the Bible but these are a few verses that come to mind.
For God So Loved the World
John 3:16 “God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”
Love One Another
John 13:34-35 “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”
Love Covers a Multitude of Sins
First Peter 4:8 “Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.”
We are here to help each other and lift each other up. We are not here to tear each other down. Regardless of your stance on Phil, please treat each other with kindness...it costs you nothing except the opportunity to grow your heart.
Speaking about growing your heart, I love the Grinch!
“And the Grinch, with his Grinch-feet ice cold in the snow,
stood puzzling and puzzling, how could it be so? It came without ribbons. It came without tags. It came without packages, boxes or bags. And he puzzled and puzzled 'till his puzzler was sore. Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn't before. What if Christmas, he thought, doesn't come from a store. What if Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more.”
― Dr. Seuss, How the Grinch Stole Christmas!
stood puzzling and puzzling, how could it be so? It came without ribbons. It came without tags. It came without packages, boxes or bags. And he puzzled and puzzled 'till his puzzler was sore. Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn't before. What if Christmas, he thought, doesn't come from a store. What if Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more.”
― Dr. Seuss, How the Grinch Stole Christmas!
I guess my Christmas wish for all of you, is for each heart to grow larger as we all learn to love more!
I want to thank everyone who has voted for my comment to help win the video magnifier for Noah.
We are still in the running.
https://www.facebook.com/?ref=tn_tnmn#!/photo.php?fbid=559085070840465&set=a.341095785972729.80640.296358023779839&type=1&theater
Just like my comment to help win this for the little guy. I wish I could win one for everyone in need.
Just like my comment to help win this for the little guy. I wish I could win one for everyone in need.
My goal for the New Year is to help everyone think positively. I have started a facebook page. It is in its infancy. It is called Sightless Insight and I want to use it to encourage others who are visually impaired as well as share the positive things happening in our communities, whether it is paying it forward, acts of kindness or general good will. Please feel free to send me information that you think is positive, I would love to share it on my page.
Last year on January 1st, I started putting a positive message, memory or event that occured each day into a jar. I will start a new jar on the 1st again this year. I look forward to reading the ones I put in the jar last year beginning also on the 1st. I think as I read them, I will once again be reminded of how very blessed I am!
MERRY CHRISTMAS....until next year!
Sunday, December 8, 2013
Big Hearts are for Sharing!
Well, it has been awhile since I have posted to the blog. I have been busy as I am sure many of you have been too. Many things have happened since my last post. Some sad things and wonderful things too.
I know so many people that are struggling with financial issues, illness and grief this holiday season. My heart goes out to each and every one of them. I know we do not have the ability to fix it for them but we can offer them our ears, prayers and love.
I have seen quite a few incidents of people paying it forward. This always warms my heart. Paying it forward is such a simple act of kindness and one we can all participate in. It does not have to be something big, but it does have to come from your heart.
Speaking of hearts, there are many people out there with great big hearts. Some have the heart of a lion fighting cancer, some of a poet, with their hearts resting on a sleeve, others hearts are so big because they are filled with compassion for others.
I am blessed...my friends have big hearts, some even have gianormous hearts.
I celebrated my birthday with wonderful friends. First with the girls at Rosa & Roccos. Had a great time and many laughs with Brenda, Joey, Lois, Kathy, Marcela and Beth.
I got to celebrate again with my friends, The Cackling Hens where there are four birthdays in our group. Cheese Cake Factory and the comedy club. We had a blast, shared laughs and gifts.
I am thankful for all of those that sent birthday cards and wishes and helped me celebrate. Best of all these things make great memories. I am truly blessed.
Have you heard of Random Words of Encouragement? It is something everyone and anyone can participate in. We are celebrating this in my community January17, 2014. I hope people from every community participates. It is simple, you place five random words of encouragement around the town you live in. You can be creative and put your message on cookies, balloons or wherever your heart desires. Thank You Amber Stone-Cameron for inviting me. Very excited to see how it affects others. I will share the link on my facebook page.
I will also be sharing another link, I am trying to win a little boy, an electronic video magnifier. With the support of friends and a caring community, I know it can be done. https://www.facebook.com/?ref=tn_tnmn#!/photo.php?fbid=559085070840465&set=a.341095785972729.80640.296358023779839&type=1&theater
Just like my comment to help win this for the little guy. I wish I could win one for everyone in need. I have to start somewhere and so this link is hopefully just the beginning.
I picked this little guy first for many reasons. He is in elementary school. He is so bright and energetic.
I do not know how you develop a love for reading when you cannot see the words. I want to give him the opportunity to love words and see all of the magic books can bring him so that he has a love for it all while he is still young. I hate to see him struggle in school.
I cannot tell you how devastated I was when I could no longer read print. Regular hand-held magnifiers could no longer do the trick. I love words and books. Like a thief in the night that was taken from me. Of course I was still grateful that I could see but not being able to read robbed my soul.
When the original Kindle came out, I was so excited. They were back ordered after Oprah brought it out on her show. I joined the waiting list and was in correspondence with Amazon. I wanted to know how big I could make the font before I purchased it. They inquired why I would ask. I told them that I wanted to make sure I could read it. They were very nice and when I got my Kindle they had upgraded me to the Kindle II which was not yet out because of the font capacity and there is a way for me to upgrade my fonts.
I cannot even describe the joy I felt at being able to read a book again.
It is frustrating to not be able to read your mail, the newspaper, magazines, menus, price and more without help. It steals a piece of your soul and your privacy too.
I have been fortunate with all of these things because before the technology allowed me to read these things, my friends, family and co-workers assisted me.
I loved today's sermon at church. I have a feeling it will definitely prompt me to think outside of the box this Christmas as I give out gifts...never mind that I have never seen the box. Some of the best things in life are unseen.
I want to hear what everyone's Christmas wishes are. Please leave me some comments or private message me.
Until next week
I know so many people that are struggling with financial issues, illness and grief this holiday season. My heart goes out to each and every one of them. I know we do not have the ability to fix it for them but we can offer them our ears, prayers and love.
I have seen quite a few incidents of people paying it forward. This always warms my heart. Paying it forward is such a simple act of kindness and one we can all participate in. It does not have to be something big, but it does have to come from your heart.
Speaking of hearts, there are many people out there with great big hearts. Some have the heart of a lion fighting cancer, some of a poet, with their hearts resting on a sleeve, others hearts are so big because they are filled with compassion for others.
I am blessed...my friends have big hearts, some even have gianormous hearts.
I celebrated my birthday with wonderful friends. First with the girls at Rosa & Roccos. Had a great time and many laughs with Brenda, Joey, Lois, Kathy, Marcela and Beth.
I got to celebrate again with my friends, The Cackling Hens where there are four birthdays in our group. Cheese Cake Factory and the comedy club. We had a blast, shared laughs and gifts.
I am thankful for all of those that sent birthday cards and wishes and helped me celebrate. Best of all these things make great memories. I am truly blessed.
Have you heard of Random Words of Encouragement? It is something everyone and anyone can participate in. We are celebrating this in my community January17, 2014. I hope people from every community participates. It is simple, you place five random words of encouragement around the town you live in. You can be creative and put your message on cookies, balloons or wherever your heart desires. Thank You Amber Stone-Cameron for inviting me. Very excited to see how it affects others. I will share the link on my facebook page.
I will also be sharing another link, I am trying to win a little boy, an electronic video magnifier. With the support of friends and a caring community, I know it can be done. https://www.facebook.com/?ref=tn_tnmn#!/photo.php?fbid=559085070840465&set=a.341095785972729.80640.296358023779839&type=1&theater
Just like my comment to help win this for the little guy. I wish I could win one for everyone in need. I have to start somewhere and so this link is hopefully just the beginning.
I picked this little guy first for many reasons. He is in elementary school. He is so bright and energetic.
I do not know how you develop a love for reading when you cannot see the words. I want to give him the opportunity to love words and see all of the magic books can bring him so that he has a love for it all while he is still young. I hate to see him struggle in school.
I cannot tell you how devastated I was when I could no longer read print. Regular hand-held magnifiers could no longer do the trick. I love words and books. Like a thief in the night that was taken from me. Of course I was still grateful that I could see but not being able to read robbed my soul.
When the original Kindle came out, I was so excited. They were back ordered after Oprah brought it out on her show. I joined the waiting list and was in correspondence with Amazon. I wanted to know how big I could make the font before I purchased it. They inquired why I would ask. I told them that I wanted to make sure I could read it. They were very nice and when I got my Kindle they had upgraded me to the Kindle II which was not yet out because of the font capacity and there is a way for me to upgrade my fonts.
I cannot even describe the joy I felt at being able to read a book again.
It is frustrating to not be able to read your mail, the newspaper, magazines, menus, price and more without help. It steals a piece of your soul and your privacy too.
I have been fortunate with all of these things because before the technology allowed me to read these things, my friends, family and co-workers assisted me.
I loved today's sermon at church. I have a feeling it will definitely prompt me to think outside of the box this Christmas as I give out gifts...never mind that I have never seen the box. Some of the best things in life are unseen.
I want to hear what everyone's Christmas wishes are. Please leave me some comments or private message me.
Until next week
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