Someone has to sit on the curb, or do they?

As I woke up this morning, I was shocked that I already had some bad thoughts about myself ...racing through my head. As Jeff and I talked about struggles that we each have... and how different our struggles are. So true. I don't really remember ever having a time that I didn't have to Daily Work On My Thoughts! I am grateful that I at least acknowledge it, but some times I feel a bit worn down by them. I think it is because I am hurting more now also. Being in pain every day seems to take a toll on a lot of things, including my thoughts. When I read this quote, I thought..NO THAT IS NOT TRUE! That is the world saying some of us aren't good enough, but we can at least stand on the curb and wave or clap! I am so grateful that I know that each one of us all Sons and Daughters of God. That gives us a potential that the world can't even comprehend! And so none of us should have to or be expected to just SIT ON THE CURB!
And I love this quote (below) about Mother's and how they raise their sons, to treat all women as a Princess. All you have to do is look at the paper, news or billboards... to see that the World doesn't believe in this quote! I know that I struggle each day with negative thoughts about myself, not being good enough, smart enough or acceptable enough. But each day I pray that I will realize my potential and for every bad thought that comes my way, I try to have a positive one to push it out! That usually works really well. That is also why I am grateful for my blog. It makes me continually look each day for the good and positive things in the world, so that I can share them with you!
Good night dear friends!

"The man who treats his woman likes a Princess, is proof that he has been born and raised in the arms of a Queen."


"Always remember you are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, smarter than you think, and 
twice as beautiful as you'd ever imagine!"

A great example to us all!

All my life I was surrounded by people who served others. It was taught in our home by my parents, and I was taught in at church each Sunday. I know personally no matter how hard life is, if I stop thinking about myself and serve someone else...even in a small, small way....I feel better! I am grateful for the examples of so many who show me how to serve every day. Even our children and Grandchildren.
Don't believe it? Then try it yourself! When you are down, hurt, sad, or lonely...take a minute and think of anyone that could use your help, or whose life is much worse than yours ( and there always is ). When you stop and do this and then act upon that impression, immediately ...your life starts looking a bit better and you  feel better!
Service... is vital in our lives!
Thanks to all of you who have touched my life through SERVICE!
Good night dear friends!
 

 

"When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, "Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping." To this day, especially in times of "disaster," I remember my mother's words and I am always comforted by realizing that there are still so many helpers – so many caring people in this world." Fred "Mister" Rogers
 

“Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood.”

- Fred Rogers

Life and the moments that matter!

 I watched this sweet video of a family whose little boy passed away, you can see how they are trying to remember him...it is a beautiful tribute and you can watch it  here:
It also made me realize that it is the MOMENTS in life that we really should be taking snapshots of in our minds and hearts. So when life gets so busy, full or demanding...we could close our eyes and remember the sweet little precious memories which make all the difference in the world. Some times there are things that happen and you can't change, but still to remember the good times and times that it seemed like little miracles were happening all around you; has got to be a better way to live.
It is important like this quote said...
"Be nicer than you feel!" I think there are times that even remembering others, can pull us out of a Self Pity Party. I am grateful for those times, those moments, those miracles and those friends.

Just in the last 24 hours I have heard from a friend who is grieving from the loss of her son, I ran into a young Mom and Dad who lost their baby boy a year ago, I had a dear friend tell me that she was diagnosed with Breast Cancer and having surgery today. Another friend told me that she has to go in for more tests and things don't look too well. Another friend shared with me some health issues of members of her family and the list goes on and on. All of these are amazing people with smiles on their faces and they are getting up every day and trying to enjoy the MOMENTS in life. I am sure they have their Bigger Than Me Days, like all of us ( which is fine ) but the point is...they are still going, doing and moving on in their lives. I am always amazed at the resilience of the human spirit. These people are my heroes.
So as I watched that sweet tribute to this dear family's son, it made me realize we need to enjoy the MOMENTS more and be GRATEFUL for each day we get, even the ones with challenges in them.
So grateful for the wonderful examples I have around me each day! I am blessed!
Good night dear friends!

Who is a hero in your life?

Once again, Jason Wright finds something positive to share in his weekly articles, you can read them here:

March 12, 2013

You may not know Dave McConnell of Columbus, Ohio. But odds are, you know someone just like him. You might call them friends.

I call them life heroes.

McConnell hasn't overcome disease, saved someone from a burning barn or given millions to charity.

He's just a suburban dad living in a nice Columbus neighborhood with his lovely wife, Alisha, and two happy, healthy children.

So why is he one of my heroes? Because like few people I've ever known, McConnell has found balance between providing for his family and pursuing his creative dreams.

I recognized McConnell was a creative thinker when I first met him in July of 1989. We'd both graduated from high school weeks before and crossed paths on a low-budget movie set in Sandy, Utah. McConnell had an agent, raw talent, a Hollywood jaw and dreams of L.A. stardom.

One year later we both served missions for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Brazil. We served honorably and though we've been home two decades, a piece of us remains with the country and people we grew to love.

Upon his return, McConnell attended school and reignited his dreams of bright lights and of making a creative difference in the world. He didn't know exactly where life would take him, but heaven made it clear he had stories to tell on the trip there.

Sadly, my dear friend and I drifted apart through the years. I saw him in a commercial or two and recognized him immediately in the 2002 television movie, "The Pennsylvania Miners' Story."

Finally, a few years ago, we each reconnected with another long-lost mutual friend who passed along our contact information. I soon found myself in Columbus, Ohio, spending the day with the McConnell family.

It was a joy to catch up. I learned that McConnell works in pharmaceutical sales and provides well for his family. But it's miles away from the dreams of his teens and 20s when he imagined being a full-time actor, writer and director.

I also learned that my talented friend has a talent agent and that he's booked many commercials and a few parts in films and television series that have passed through Ohio. He's shared a set with the likes of Ryan Gosling and George Clooney.

He's currently starring in a series of regional Wal-Mart ads. He's the man who walks with real customers through the store to show the savings between Wal-Mart and one of their local competitors.

No, it's not some soundstage on some lot at some Hollywood studio, but it's a creative outlet and a regular gig that he loves.

McConnell has also just finished his first novel. "Dark Soul" is an 80,000-word look at life and death and heaven and hell. It challenges readers to shake their perceptions of what awaits on the other side. It's earning raves from early readers and is being shopped to publishers and agents.

So what makes him a "life hero?"

McConnell and other fathers and mothers like him are heroes for their willingness to balance their dreams and the artistic passions of their souls to fulfill their greater responsibility - to provide safety and security for their families.

My good friend would give almost anything to quit his job, remodel his home office and write a New York Times best-seller or Oscar-winning screenplay. His veins run hot with creative blood that aches to tell stories on paper, stage or film.

He would do almost anything for the opportunity, but he accepts that his priorities cannot be compromised.

Our society glorifies those who sacrifice all to pursue their dreams, who never quit, who suffer to achieve greatness. But what about those who put dreams in their proper place?

Hopefully the day will come when he can say goodbye to his nine-to-five job and write or act full time. Perhaps he'll relocate from the Midwest to California or New York and support his family on his creative talents.

But what if that never happens? What if his dreams remain on the periphery, like extras in his life's movie? They'll be seen, have their role, but never dominate the screen.

What if he is only remembered as a man who worked hard every single day in corporate America and took whatever time he could squeeze from life to pursue his other passions?

What if he's remembered as nothing but a husband and father who kept his promises, loved God and loved his family and served both with all his heart? Then he would leave this life a very satisfied man.

You probably know someone just like this. Maybe they stare back at you in the mirror every morning. You might wake up in the early hours to work on that manuscript or screenplay. You sing in the shower or in the garage with your band with the hope and prayer that one day your passions will become a profession.

You accept that your dreams won't come true without true effort, but that dreams are not an excuse to shirk responsibilities of living in a modern world. It's what makes you admirable. It's what makes you honorable.

It's what makes you a "life hero."

And it's time we honor you, too.

My to-do list for today!

A dear friend of mine posted this today, and since I had a tough day physically (because of pain), I am going to read this over and over again and ....just breathe and then just head to bed! :)
I am grateful for the inspiration she shared.
 Good night dear friends!

Truly making a difference!

 I read this article the other day about this small town Doctor, who still makes house calls. As I read the article found here:
I was impressed with what this sweet Doctor, and for what he was doing for the people who are his patients in this small town of Georgia.
In my quest for Doctors throughout my life and the life of my kids...I still think it is ok to uphold some of the things (standards) that this dear Doctor does every day. I understand the world has gotten bigger and more complex... but some things should always be there, when you work with people. I will highlight a few of them in this article. I know that many of you would almost laugh when you think of ever finding a Doctor who is like Dr. McMahan. Still there have been a handful of Doctors that we have found like that... and how they have blessed our lives...has been amazing. So I am grateful for their compassion and concern (real concern) for me and my family!
 
He is there to be the best Doctor for these people, money doesn't drive him. Personal connections do make all the difference!
Imagine this: You are a young doctor who has recently graduated from medical school. An excellent student, you could choose to practice almost anywhere—including Atlanta, where your advising professor has connections. Instead, you set up shop in a small southern town, much like the one you grew up in. It's the kind of place where the neighbors all know each other, where families have lived for generations and still attend the same church. It's also a place where a young doctor is unlikely to get rich.
He listens and looks them in the eye!

  I notice that with each patient, McMahan listens intently and looks them in the eye when he talks. He acknowledges later that the eye contact is deliberate. "That's the No. 1 complaint I hear about other doctors," he says. "Patients say, 'He never looks at me! He's always on the computer.' So I always look up. I put my hand on their shoulder." He shrugs. "Sometimes compassion is even more important than a prescription."
  He uses the experiences that he has had to go through in his life, to support and understand each patient!
Such personal attentiveness does take effort, McMahan admits—especially given that computerized medical records have become ever more complicated, with dozens of menus that a physician must click through during each visit. But he's sympathetic to patients who feel as if they're being ignored. When McMahan's then 24-year-old son was diagnosed with a rare cancer in 2008, the family sought treatment at Memorial Sloan-Kettering in New York, and the process deepened his perspective. "When you carry some of the battle scars that your patients carry, you meet them at their level," he says.

He goes the extra mile!
Besides running his private practice, the doctor spends one morning each week making the rounds at the local nursing homes, checking medications and visiting with patients he knows. He also treats patients at the local detention center, a mixed-use facility in Ocilla that houses immigrations and customs detainees, along with federal inmates.

He is trying to teach them to over come certain habits that are damaging their health...that is a hard sale!
Starting out, McMahan provided mostly acute care, what he describes as "lumps, bumps, rashes, colds, sore throats." These days, though, he's more likely to see patients with multiple chronic diseases: diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease. Most are overweight, and many smoke. (In Ocilla, smoking is still permitted on the grounds of the local hospital—a policy McMahan has been trying to change.)

As the doctor to a high-risk population, McMahan spends much of his time trying to convince his patients to eat better and to exercise: unpopular prescriptions in the rural South. "It's like the Pogo cartoon," he says ruefully. " 'We have met the enemy, and the enemy is us.' "
  As a doctor, McMahan says, he can sometimes feel powerless in the face of people's habits. "We're a bunch of hardheaded southerners," McMahan acknowledges. "But we're talking about societal issues now. Is health care a privilege or a right, and who pays for it? And how much do you get when there's a limited resource?"

Since starting out, he adds, cutbacks by insurance companies have eaten away at the modest profit margin he once relied on. "For many family doctors, it's nearly impossible to make a living now," he says. "You have to make enough to pay the light bill, and to pay your employees—while still trying to be compassionate and not overcharge patients. That's why so many physicians these days are selling their practices."

For a moment, McMahan seems glum, but then he shrugs the mood off.
He is doing what seems like the impossible but he likes what he does and knows that is what he is suppose to do!
"The truth is, this is what I want to do," he says, as we walk out into the warm night air. "I like being a family doctor. I believe all Americans deserve a physician that they can rely on. That's one thing I'd like to publicize: You can get good care in a small town. And I'm doing what I can to keep it that way.

What a great article, and what a great concept!
Good night dear friends!
 
"A physician is obligated to consider more than a diseased organ, more even than the whole man - he must view the man in his world."  ~Harvey Cushing

 A Short History of Medicine
2000 B.C. - "Here, eat this root."
1000 B.C. - "That root is heathen, say this prayer."
1850 A.D. - "That prayer is superstition, drink this potion."
1940 A.D. - "That potion is snake oil, swallow this pill."
1985 A.D. - "That pill is ineffective, take this antibiotic."
2000 A.D. - "That antibiotic is artificial. Here, eat this root."
~Author Unknown

Creating all day!

 Today the girls and I made Easter Purses, and then while they played outside, Amy and I sewed the top for Audrey's quilt. I love the fabric that Amy picked...it is really beautiful and that was before even started cutting and designing it! I can't wait to hold that little Audrey some day. Wonder if she will have RED hair to? :)
It was fun to have the sunshine out all day and knowing that Spring is right around the corner! 

Since we had the girls tonight, so that their Mom and Dad could have a Date Night, we decided to head to Port Townsend tomorrow and do a Date Day! I can't wait, I feel blessed to have this time to be with Jeff!
Hope you had a wonderful day! Good night dear friends

Grandchildren!

 Just two days ago, I got to play Peek A Boo with my grandson while we skyped over the internet, I was thrilled!
He lives far away but still we hope that he will know who his Nana and Poppa are, and will soon learn that he is the love of our lives! He will turn one really soon, can't believe how long that 9 months lasted ...as we waited for his arrival, and then I can't believe how fast this year has gone by. We feel blessed to be grandparents, what an honor to spend the last seasons of our lives with these sweet little spirits! We are truly blessed.
Today was Angie's Sleep Over, and so I picked her up early and we literally just spent the day doing whatever we wanted. Lots of window shopping,  talking, walking, laughing, designing patterns of things we want to make, playing with stuffed animals ( felt like I was with Lauren all over again with all the stuffed animals) and then we cooked, ate dinner and watched a movie. Then bed time stories and prayers and .... did I say I was tired already? I am, but it does my heart good to have the time to spend with her and then Jenny's Sleep Over is next, and then when little Kai comes this summer...it will be his turn! And before we know it ...little Audrey will be born and wanting her own Sleep Over at Nana and Poppa's house... we can hardly wait!
Good night dear friends!

 

Everyone needs to know what love feels like!

  Another incredibly inspiring story from Jason Wright...you can read more from him here:

Wright Words: Legacy of Phoenix boy inspires second annual ‘Errands for Ethan’ day

Ethan Ellsworth of Phoenix died in March 2011 due to complications from an undiagnosed arteriovenous malformation in his brain. To remember him, his family and friends have invited others to do random acts of kindness called "Errands for Ethan" on the anniversary of his death.

Kim Ellsworth

 

Ethan William Ellsworth of Phoenix may have been born with a malformation of veins in his brain, but his heart couldn’t have been more perfect.

Ethan William Ellsworth of Phoenix may have been born with a malformation of veins in his brain, but his heart couldn’t have been more perfect. Ethan’s condition — arteriovenous malformation — was undetected until his brain suddenly hemorrhaged one night, sending the otherwise healthy and happy 7½-year-old boy to the hospital for diagnosis and emergency surgery.
The crisis triggered several days of intense family faith, prayer and soul searching. When the doctors reported that nothing could be done to repair the damage, his parents made the most difficult decision of their lives — to remove their young hero from life support.
On March 26, 2011, they said a sacred goodbye.
For some families, the date might have marked the end of something wonderful and the beginning of the long, dark days of navigating the grey fog of grief. But for the Ellsworth family, the date sparked the beginning of a new opportunity to spread Ethan’s spirit of service.
Ethan’s parents, Marcus and Kim Ellsworth, have long believed in the immeasurable value of serving others and have raised their children in a culture of kindness. But it’s not simply what they believe — it is who they are.
Even still, Ethan’s death deepened that understanding. They quickly learned that while their beautiful son might not have been healed in this life, through serving others the family could collectively experience tremendous healing of a different kind.
In March 2012 as the one-year anniversary approached, the Ellsworth family pondered ways to remember their son and sibling and mark the tender date in a meaningful way. A friend suggested they perform random acts of kindness in his honor and invite the community to participate.
They chose to call it "Errands for Ethan" and hoped a handful of people might join their effort. With less than week to go before the anniversary, they used social media and their network of friends to spread the word. The Ellsworth’s were confident a few would join the cause.
They couldn’t have been more wrong.
By March 26, a Facebook event created to mark the big day boasted more than just a few. Twenty thousand people RSVP’d and committed to performing thousands of random acts of kindness in Ethan’s memory. Some were so moved by the idea, they shared their service experiences on a website at errandsforethan.org designed for the special day.
In 2013, the family has their sights set even higher.
With just three weeks to go and buzz building for the second annual "Errands for Ethan" day, I asked Kim Ellsworth to share the greatest lesson her son left behind. I wondered, "Is it really just about random acts of kindness?"
“Yes, it is about helping others,” she said. “But it's also the sense of forgetting yourself for others. We know the more we serve and give, the less we worry about ourselves.”
Kim added that more than anything, Ethan would want each of us to know how much Father in heaven loves us. “Our Father knows us and wants us to be happy. If these little acts of kindness can help in any way, Ethan would want to share that.”
“But,” she continued, “these errands are not for him, they are for others to feel loved. Because everyone needs to know what love feels like.”
Truer and more beautiful words have never been spoken: “Everyone needs to know what love feels like.”

Perhaps most impressive about "Errands for Ethan" is the family’s humble belief that they’re not extraordinary or any more special than any other family that’s lost a child. Kim describes themselves as just ordinary people with an ordinary child who suddenly left this life.
What makes their ordinary experience extraordinary, she believes, is the outpouring of love and comfort. “We want others to feel loved as much as we did in those days, weeks and months right after losing our son.”
And what better way to make others feel loved than to serve them?
With March 26 and "Errands for Ethan" day approaching, the Ellsworth’s invite everyone to perform an act of kindness in his memory, or in the memory of your own loved ones. And when March 27 arrives, perhaps our random acts of service will gather into a tidal wave that doesn’t care what the calendar says.
Because everyone needs to know what love feels like.
For more information about "Errands for Ethan," visit errandsforethan.org or click here to RSVP for the "Errands for Ethan" Facebook event.

Cousins

 I remember some of my fondest memories when I was a child was going camping with my cousins. Also getting together on Christmas Day for dinner at my Grandmother's house with my cousins. When our kids were little, we were blessed to have some of their cousins live close to us for quite a few years. Still even as adults they talk about the holidays and times we got together and all the funny things that happened. And they are very close!
 Yes, having family ( cousins ) around, is really a blessing that many of us take for granted if we have always had it. Now my kids are growing up and we are doing all that we can to keep the next generations of cousins...close. It is hard when they live so far away, but it is worth all the effort that we make.
Just recently one of my great nephews got really sick. What a blessing it was to call all the family and asked each one of them to remember him in their thoughts and prayers. It just made my heart happy to have my kids ask on a daily basis how he was doing? Yes, that is how families are suppose to work! Helping and supporting each other. I hope my grandkids will be able to get to know their cousins...that would be a real treat in their lives if they do...and in mine too!



"Cousins are usually the first friends we have as children. No one will ever understand your crazy family like your cousins do even if you haven't talked to much lately."





"Call it a clan, call it a network, call it a tribe, call it a family.  Whatever you call it, whoever you are, you need one."  ~Jane Howard

Every girl is a Princess!

Someone sent me this sweet youtube video about every girl being a Princess, you can watch it here:
Can you imagine what you life would be like ...if we all could remember this!!!! What a different life we
 would have. I have glimpses of it often, but there are days... that I forget!
So let's all keep this link close at hand and watch it on those tough days!
Have a great one dear friends!

Suffering ceases to be suffering when...

I heard a quote on the radio yesterday, it didn't say who the quote was by. I loved it though, it went like this..."Suffering ceases to be suffering at the moment it finds a meaning", I first thought it said "Suffering cesases to be suffering when the lesson is learned". I guess they both have the same point. Some of the greatest lessons that we have learned in our lives, have been during some of the hardest times in our lives. When a tragedy happens, such as something that really stops everything else in your life and it takes all you have to handle it. I have also found at that moment,  things quickly prioritize themselves. You know longer worry about the every day things and even doing some of those every day things either is a struggle to do, or nothing compared to what you are trying to endure or overcome.
Yes, lessons in life are hard and yet...the suffering does seem to end when you are finally understanding why this trial was given to you. It takes a lot of FAITH to find the meaning in suffering. It takes a trust and hope in your Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Hoping and praying that they will not let you have any more than  you can handle. Having the knowledge that Christ has already suffered for all of our sins, and has experienced all that anyone of us will have to experience. Gives us someone to go to in our times of need. Knowing full well that HE has been there and will be there with you to help give you hope, comfort and Peace! What a blessing to know that suffering doesn't have to be forever. Everything in life has a purpose. It is important to pray and ask what that is...so that we can learn the lesson and find the meanings.
Yes, life is hard ...but it wasn't meant for us to go through it alone. We have the Savior, our families and each other. Thank you for being there for me and my family, when we needed you the most. When our suffering seemed more than we could handle. Your thoughts and prayers were a blessing to us! Thank you again dear friends, and good night!


"Life is what we make it, always has been, always will be."  ~Grandma Moses

A great bit of wisdom!

I think this is something all of us parents and grandparents should remember!
Good night dear friends!

Our light!

Last night our internet service quit, that is why I didn't do a post! And since tonight is Date Night, I thought I would go ahead and do my blog right away!
I loved this quote, it is so true...there has been many times in my life that when things were really tough, someone who shared their light with me, made all the difference! And I want to say Thank You!
I hope we all try harder to keep our own light burning and be ever watchful to share the light you have, with others in need. I think this is something we all are suppose to do on a daily basis!
Have a great day!

"Thousands of candles can be lit from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared."   ~ Buddh 

 

"There is no delight in owning anything unshared."  ~ Seneca

Both teams win!

I love it when you watch some sports game and you see young men and women who uphold the true standard of sportsmanship, This video clip shows even more than that, it shows young men who have a heart and care more about others than themselves! That is a win win situation I believe!
 Enjoy, you can watch it here:
Good night dear friends!

"It is your response to winning and losing that makes you a winner or a loser." Harry Sheehy

"Victory is remembered for at most two decades; an act of good sportsmanship is remembered for a lifetime." Simon Nguyen

Everyone matters!

• I wonder some days if I should pay Jason for letting me share his words to you on my blog. Since I am not selling anything I guess I probably won't do that. But I am very grateful for the way he writes and for the way, he makes me want to go out and make a difference in the world  after reading his weekly articles or his latest book. I have used his articles on more than one occassion. Why? Well, because my blog is a Motivataional Blog. I search and pray for things to find on the news, the internet, in my own life and in stories from others ....to motivate you and encourage  you. If for some reason you need an extra boost, then I would suggest reading his weekly articles or get your hands on one of his books, you can find them here:
• I loved the lesson learned from his article today, about letting people know they matter! I really do try to do this, and do it because I truly believe that everyone does matter. I have made some of the dearest friends in an airport, at the store, in a class or at a basketball game. Of course I didn't met them because I exchanged sugary treats with them, like the guy in this story. But you know how I feel about sugar! That is why Jason's articles are so much better than mine! Who wants to hear a story about the friendly lady who was always trying to share her snap peas with someone? See it just doesn't have the same ring to it, does it? Oh well, I hope you enjoy the article and have a good night dear friends, ( oh by the way, I don't know why I can't get rid of those bullets on the left here... and I am too tired to try any longer to get rid of them, sorry :)
• 

Wouldn’t it be wonderful to have someone step into your life, especially on the days you wish would end early, and look you in the eyes with that powerful message? "You matter!"

I’ve been thinking about chocolate-covered cherries lately. The tiny treats have symbolized my childhood Christmas mornings, and my mother always had several boxes scattered out on the counter when we came downstairs. We never had to ask if we could have one.
And, obviously, we never had just one.
But why are they on my mind as we march toward March? What has me thinking of the cherished chocolate treats with the holidays fading in the rear-view mirror?
I have a good friend who loves the 7-Eleven store and all of its convenience-store cousins. Is it an unhealthy affection? I can’t say. But it wouldn’t surprise me to learn he has a spare room in his home lined with maps of every Circle K, Handi-Hut, mini mart and snack shack within a day’s drive.
When he walks in for a cold drink or quick snack, they don’t just call him by name. They ask about his kids and how his daughter did on last Friday’s spelling test.
I’ve noticed that my friend shares my affection for chocolate-covered cherries. Each time he visits a store that carries them, or any of its individually wrapped siblings — York Peppermint Patty singles, caramels, tiny Reese's Peanut Butter Cups — he always buys one or two extras.
One of the extras always goes to me and I appreciate the kindness. But the real generosity happens at checkout.
“How are you today?” he asks the clerk.
Their replies are often predictable. “Eh. OK, I guess. Just another day.”
“That’s it?” he asks. “Come on, we can do better than that.”
They don’t usually reply with words, but their eyes say plenty.
“Here, I promise this will turn your day around.” He slides the candy he’s just bought right back across the counter.
“Excuse me?” Even the clerks he knows well act surprised each time he treats them.
“Trust me,” he says, “nothing turns your day around like a chocolate-covered fill-in-the-blank.”
They always reach for it and slide it the rest of the way toward the edge of the counter. As it lands in their outstretched palm, a smile always lands on their face.
“Thank you,” they say, often more than once. “Thanks very much. You didn’t have to.”
My pal winks, pops his own treat in his mouth and walks out.
I eat my freebie, too, and the conversation turns to sports, politics, work and all the other things guys talk about to feel relevant to one another.
Sometimes my friend repeats the same scene on the same day at another location. I’ve been present for many of these chocolate-covered cherry miracles. But how many have I missed?
I wonder how much money my friend has spent serving others in this small way. At 25 cents each, it can’t be much. I wonder if he’s bought 500 of these tasty gifts. More? A thousand?
But it’s not the money, is it? Like all other acts of service, it’s the message. For a few seconds every time he walks into a gas station or convenience store, he sends the unmistakable message to those who wait on him that they are not alone.
He speaks with action and with his gift of time. He says to them, “I see you. You’re not alone. You’re important.”
He practically shouts: “You matter!”
Wouldn’t it be wonderful to have someone step into your life, especially on the days you wish would end early, and look you in the eyes with that powerful message?
“You matter!”
My friend isn’t naïve and neither am I. We know that a 25-cent treat doesn’t solve life’s serious problems. It doesn’t help someone find a new job, cure family illness or return the prodigal son. But it just might make all those things seem more possible.
When life gets tough, when days seem bigger than our spirit, having someone look us in the eye and remind us we’re not alone could be the greatest gift of all.
I’m grateful that after so many visits to our favorite watering holes, I’m finally paying attention to my friend’s chocolate miracles. And I can’t wait to start performing my own.
In fact, I think I'll hit 7-Eleven on the way home tonight.
I hope they have chocolate-covered cherries.

"Today, give a stranger one of your smiles.  It might be the only sunshine he sees all day."  ~Quoted in P.S. I Love You, compiled by H. Jackson Brown, Jr.

"Kindness is the language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see."  ~Mark Twain

"Wherever there is a human being, there is an opportunity for a kindness."  ~Seneca

Half Empty or Half Full?

 Some dear friend sent me this story. She knew that it was something that I would like and one that I could share with you on my blog...it's true! A great reminder for all of us. Enjoy dear friends and good night! .
 
 A psychologist walked around a room while teaching stress management to an audience. As she raised a glass of water, everyone expected they’d be asked the “half empty or half full” question. Instead, with a smile on her face, she inquired: ...“How heavy is this glass of water?”

Answers called out ranged from 8 oz. to 20 oz.

She replied, “The absolute weight doesn’t matter. It depends on how long I hold it. If I hold it for a minute, it’s not a problem. If I hold it for an hour, I’ll have an ache in my arm. If I hold it for a day, my arm will feel numb and paralyzed. In each case, the weight of the glass doesn’t change, but the longer I hold it, the heavier it becomes.” She continued, “The stresses and worries in life are like that glass of water. Think about them for a while and nothing happens. Think about them a bit longer and they begin to hurt. And if you think about them all day long, you will feel paralyzed – incapable of doing anything.”

It’s important to remember to let go of your stresses. As early in the evening as you can, put all your burdens down. Don’t carry them through the evening and into the night. Remember to put the glass down!
 Story came from here: http://www.fitlife.tv/
Photo of glass here:  

Sundays are tough.

I used to always want Sundays to come, so that life will slow down and our family can be together. With four kids, life was always so busy. I could hardly wait till Sunday came, and there were no schedules or places we had to be ...except together. I was grateful that we went to church together, even though many Sunday mornings I thought I was going to lose it...trying to find everyone's shoes or hair bow. I laugh when I think of how crazy it was trying to get all those little guys ready for church each Sunday, and them try to teach them to be quiet and reverent in church. But thankful that we did, because having them close to the Lord has been a great foundation for them in their lives; and has directly effected the choices that they have made. It was important for Jeff and I to help them know that they had a Heavenly Father who loved them and who would always be there for them. So even though Sundays were a bit hard at the time, still Sundays are some of my favorite memories with them at church and at home all together.
 So I shouldn't be surprised that now that we are Empty Nester's that Sundays are the toughest for me. I miss the kids, wish we all lived closer together so that at least we could be together again on Sundays for dinner. But since reality reminds me that isn't going to happen, then I realize that like many other things in life...this is just a phase. But I have to say that even at our age, going through a new phase in life can be really tough on the heart.
Even as I mention this, I am reminded of dear friends of mine who are going through much harder phases of their life, much harder than mine. I am grateful though that we have each other to support and help each other through each of these important changes in our lives. Yes, friendships truly do help and for that I am very grateful.
Now that I have made it through another Sunday, I need to head to bed.
Good night dear friends!

Life is too short!

The other day I was really upset about something. I realized that I had let it ruin my day, and then it went into ruining another day. I was shocked that I let that happened. I was disappointed that I didn't let go of it and either deal with the problem or forget it, and go on. Some times when I get upset like that, I begin to fear certain things that MIGHT happen, and I realize that being fearful isn't good either.
 I needed to have this poem ( below ) up on my mirror on days like that. Because all that I have been through, truly teaches me that each day is important. Way more important than the silly little thing that I let get under my skin. I need to remember to change what I can and what I can't change ...let it go!
I will try harder to remember how precious life really is, and not let even one day slip by...because IT IS WORTH IT! 
Good night dear friends!

Lifting up those who are in need!

I recently read an article that was written by a licensed clinical social worker. He had experienced some real losses in his life and was expressing the things that he learned and suggestions to others, who want to help in time of need. The article is called Lifting the Hands which hang down by Stephen Havertz and you can read all of it here:

I wanted to share a few things that I really thought were good to remember, especially coming from his unique perspective on grief and loss...

In his own experience, even when he thought that he had handled the death of his child, he realized that there were still times when emotions seemed to sneak up and ambush him. He said that he felt like most of his life he was a fairly EVEN emotionally, but during and after a few of these really hard trials he felt like his EMOTIONS OVERPOWERED ALL LOGIC!
What can I say?
Please don't say " I know what you are going through " if you never have experienced that exact situation. And even sometimes if you have, remember that everyone and everyone's experiences and life are different, so they could feel differently still. EACH TYPE OF GRIEF COMES WITH ITS OWN SET OF QUESTIONS AND OFTEN A HEAVY DOSE OF REGRET AND EMOTIONAL PAIN.
In all cases, those who wish to help will be most effective when they can be sensitive to the unique situation. It's probably best to express your love and condolences to the grievers and avoid making statements about what they should do or how they should feel.
PEOPLE WHO WANT TO HELP SHOULD BE VERY CAREFUL ABOUT PLACING A TIME LIMIT ON SOMEONE'S GRIEF. Some people believe that you should be finished grieving in a year and a half. He mentions that his daughter died 3 years ago and still he feels tremendous pain whenever he visits the hospital where she was sick. This type of grief doesn't mean that he is depressed or inconsolable, but rather it suggests that he still misses the daughter that he loved so much.
What is helpful?
He mentions that it is helpful to have conversations with others when they talk about their favorite memories of his daughter. It is also helpful when they are willing to listen to his favoritie memories of her. YOU DON'T HAVE TO HELP PEOPLE WHO ARE GRIEVING TO STOP CRYING. They still need to release their feelings and that is ok!
He said one neighbor ( that he didn't know well ) just came over and just gave him a hug, that was his way of communicating his love and concern for him. Another person and some friends came over ( unexpectantly ) and did his yard work. He really appreciated that.
What is really important to remember?
THESE EXPERIENCES HAVE TAUGHT HIM THAT IT IS BEST TO BE EMPATHETIC AND PROACTIVE ABOUT HELPING THOSE WHO ARE GRIEVING. IF YOU TAKE TIME TO OBSERVE, YOU CAN OFTEN COME UP WITH IDEAS FOR HOW TO HELP THAT ARE SPECIFIC TO THE GRIEVER'S NEED.  AND ALWAYS KEEP IN MIND...THAT  PEOPLE MOURN IN DEEPLY PERSONAL WAYS!
So we need to stand ready to help and lift up other, as the Savior would have us to do.
Good night dear friends!

Each day is truly a gift!

A dear friend sent this to me today, and I sooooooooooo needed it. I am grateful for her thoughtfulness in sharing it with me, at the exact time I really needed it. I won't say much because I would rather you watch the you tube video than be reading. I hope it touches you deep down, like it did me.
You can watch it
Here:

One of my favorite quotes in there was this...
"If you could live as if it were the first day of your life and the very last day of your life, then you will have spent this day well "

I think I need to watch this each morning when I arise...to refresh my memory of HOW BLESSED MY LIFE REALLY IS, AND TO REMEMBER TO BLESS OTHERS!
Good night dear friends!

Brad is now teaching!

When Brad was a little boy, we knew he had a gift (ha ha ha ).... just had to say that since I found this cute photo of him at 5 years old.: )  But seriously back to Brad's gift....he always loved to DRAW and he did a lot of it. Of course at a young age just like Amy, he was employed at the Woodard Home, helping out in preparation for all my Craft Shows and Craft Markets I did. He and Amy were quite a bit of help, and a that young age learned some valuable lessons on color and techniques...you see even though it was probably against Child Labor Laws...and their pay was so low ( food and clothing )... there still had to be Quality Control! Lauren and Lee came along 5 years later and so they didn't get tortured... opps, I mean trained quite as much :) but still they got the gene. Now the kids are adults and very talented Artistically, I love to think that I had some small hand in that! :)

I am teaching again, but this time it is with fabric and in a Quilt Shop...and I love it!

The good news is that Bradley who is now a Graphic Design Artist, is starting to teach also ( they say the Apple doesn't fall far from the tree ), so I am here to spread the news!

Next month Brad will be teaching an online digital illustration course. It is a beginner level course that teaches how to incorporate color, pattern and texture in your digital illustrations. Go to the link HERE:

And if you want to sign up and get 25% off the class ( and who wouldn't ), then all you have to do is put in the Promo Code Lynn and you will get the discount. I wish I was knew enough about it, to take it myself...he is sure a talented kid and great with people. So I really think you will enjoy it. Feel free to tell your friends about it too. 

I still can't believe my Bradley is now all grown up and has his own little boy, wow...how time flies!

Good night dear friends!

Below is Brad on the right at 9 months old and his son Kai on the left at 10 months old...too cute!

  

“Every artist was first an amateur.”
― Ralph Waldo Emerson

 “The person born with a talent they are meant to use will find their greatest happiness in using it. ”
― Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Adopted Family!

You know I think it is important to be an Adoptive Family to others... who have none. I know throughout the years, it has been a life saver for us and our kids. That is what I got to do today. One of my dearest friends, has 4 smalll children, and I am known as their ( adopted Aunt Lynn ). For the oldest birthday, I gave her a coupon to come to my house for a Movie, and for some one on one time. She seemed to have a great time and talked all the way to our house and back. It made me smile to see how much it meant to her, to do something special and by herself with Aunt Lynn. It wasn't a lot of my time but... I know that it meant a lot to me to have the chance to tell this sweet young girl, how special and important she was to me. We laughed and had fun. We got a recipe that we wanted to try and copied down that for her. I tried to teach her to crochet, but it still was a bit too hard for her. I tried to teach her then to crochet with just her fingers, she caught on fast. Before I knew it, she had a chain long enough to decorate with beads...for a beautiful necklace. Then we made some hair bows for her and her sisters. Yes, it was a small part for me to play, but I hope that it pays off great dividends to her in the future and remembering she is loved!
How I wish I could do that with all the kids that I am Aunt Lynn too! And also to my family that I am really Aunt Lynn or Nana too! Distance makes that hard some times. I truly love having so many people in our family ( adopted or not )! I am blessed!

So if you have some extra time, try to see if there is anyone who you need to adopt or needs to adopt you!
Good night dear friends!

Momma Bear

Jeff and I rented this movie the other night, you can read about it here:  called WON'T BACK DOWN

It was an amazing movie, here is the PLOT...

Two determined mothers, a car dealer/bartender (Maggie Gyllenhaal) and a teacher ( Viola Davis ), look to transform their children's failing inner city school. Facing a powerful and entrenched bureaucracy and corruption from the teachers' union president (Holly Hunter)  and the school's principal ( Bill Nunn ), they risk everything to make a difference in the education and future of their children.

"Children should not be the victims of the ZIP code they live in when their education is at stake," the Eureka Republican said. "I don't think parents would go such a route unless they have exhausted all other remedies because it is a drastic remedy. But it's only going to be utilized in drastic situations. So I think parents should be the ones who are ultimately in charge of their children's education, and not bureaucrats."

I loved the movie, because it really showed what Mothers will do to protect their children. I truly believe that as Mothers..that is our ultimate job. To become Momma Bears and do whatever it takes to protect this little ones of ours. One of my favorite quotes from the movie was this one...

"You know those mothers that can lift 1-ton trucks? They're nothing compared to me!"

 

I love Momma Bears!  ( You can get this poster here:

I remember talking to a young Mother the other day, and she mentioned that she fears that she has traits and weaknesses that she has seen in her own Mother through out the years. She didn't want to be that way but was afraid to figure out why she does what she does. Yet, she wants to be strong  for her children ( by the way, don't our kids need us to be strong?)

 Well, that is true... we do need to be strong but..we are only human and we will make mistakes, we will have moments of weakness! The point of life is to figure out why we do what we do, and if we don't like what we do...then do something different!  We need to be better for our kids, we need to show them that even Mommy, some times needs help and to work on herself. Yes, we need to be strong for those kids, but also HEALTHY for them!!!!  That is really what they need is a HEALTHY, STABLE MOM! One who not only fights for them at all cost, but is willing to look at her self and be brave enough to go down whatever road it might be... to become HEALTHY and HAPPY, not only for them but for ourselves too!

It is a great movie... watch it!

Good night dear friends!

 

 "No language can express the power, and beauty, and heroism, and majesty of a mother's love.  It shrinks not where man cowers, and grows stronger where man faints, and over wastes of worldly fortunes sends the radiance of its quenchless fidelity like a star."  ~Edwin Hubbell Chapin

 

Change and Chaos!

I have to admit that this quote ( below ) is very true...at least in my life. If you have ever been in my home, you realize that I don't really change things  up in my home very much ( only the seasonal decorations ). Like furniture or things such as that. I know a lot of people do but once I like something, I definitely am satisfied with it staying right where it is....for some times even years. That means I am either very satisfied with what I have or...I am really lazy, I hope it's the first reason!
Today was a big change though and with that ( like the quote said ) came a lot of chaos and mess. After all these years of having our piano, we finally got arrangements made ( and with the help of many dear friends, with muscles ) we moved it to Amy and John's house. What a beast that was to get out of here, and into their house. Of course our house has a ton of stairs and so does theirs...but some how we got it there in one piece and even dry. It began to rain when Jeff and I were driving it there, and I prayed that it wouldn't get wet. That could truly damage it. The tarps held down, the rain was only a sprinkle or so, how grateful we were. As soon as we got it there, Amy sat down and played it...actually it sounded pretty good. It made my heart feel good, to hear that beautiful music come out of that piano. It has been silent too long. Now Amy can have music in their home, and hopefully the girls can take lessons some day.
In preparation for getting the piano out, we had to empty shelves, move everything off the porch and from the entry way. Move all the furniture in the living room, and so the chaos began. But later this evening, we were able to rearrange the living room and put up some things that I had been collecting and try and make it look like this is what our house was always suppose to look like this. I was able to put up an old window that I got this past years at an antique shop ( it came from a dairy farm in Anicortas ) and then some shutters and a new wreath. I will take a photos and proof to you ...I can change, every now and then. I love it, don't love the boxes of stuff still in the middle of the floor...but that chaos will have to be tackled ....another day!
We all probably did too much today, but it felt good to get that piano to a person who loves it and will play it often. It was a LONG, EXHAUSTING but GOOD DAY!
Good night dear friends!




  "MUSIC is what FEELINGS sound like"

I guess everyone has dreams of something! :)

It is Date Night, so this is short and sweet. I just saw this sign and it made me laugh so hard. Thought I would pass the smiles along! Good night dear friends!

Happy Valentine's Day Part Two!

Here is a photo of our kissable little grandson Kai!  You can see he is well loved! Happy Valentine's Day!

Happy Valentine's Day Dear Family and Friends!

"Love begins at home, and it is not how much we do... but how much love we put in that action."
Mother Teresa

"Intense love does not measure, it just gives."  ~Mother Teresa

I think I have another favorite new saying!

What a wonderful day today full,very busy and as you can see it is almost midnight... and I am just sitting down at the computer for the first time today. So wish me luck that I can keep my thoughts organized!
  I read a saying the other day that just made me smile. I think I need to have it printed on a plaque and hang it over the table at work, where I teach my Demo classes at. I love my classes, today was the last one for the series that we did for Valentine ideas. I could have used the sign today and every day.
Many times when I first do a project, it comes out FAR from perfect. You can tell by the number of mistakes I make... that it is either too late or I have been sewing too long. But many times I bring in the mistakes just to show them ...what not to do! What a concept. So that leads right into my new favorite saying that goes like this...
"Honor your mistakes, they pave a path to greatness!" Oh I hope that saying is really true, because I am laying down quite a foundation!

Well, I had better lay down this tired but happy body of mine!
Good night dear friends.

Great Valentine's Day Ideas from the heart!

 Jason F. Wright had some great Valentine ideas from the heart and on a budget.

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 Read more from Jason F. Wright,  here:

February 12, 2013 There are three things men cannot avoid: death, taxes and Valentine's Day. Nor can we avoid their proven side effects of stress and the cold sweats. At least in the case of Feb. 14, there is hope. To combat V-Day-induced anxiety, the National Retail Federation reports that men will spend an average of $168.74 on flowers, candy, jewelry and cards for their sweethearts. Overall, both genders in America will drop a hefty $17.6 billion on the holiday. Many of us love-struck men are so committed to getting it right, we'll even go into debt to finance our Valentine's Day purchases. Because nothing screams romance quite like saying, "I love you so much I'm willing to max out my Visa card in your honor." But you don't have to be Dr. Phil to know that she'd probably prefer a single rose and 100 uninterrupted minutes of your day. She doesn't want to know you spent a lot of money — she'd rather know you spent a lot of time. If you'd like to try celebrating Valentine's Day this week without busting the budget, consider one or more of these 10 ideas to make the day meaningful without requiring a bank loan.

1. Re-create your first date. A lot sure has changed since that first date, hasn't it? Why not surprise your sweetheart by re-creating it as best you can, right down to the itsy-bitsy details? What did you eat? What did you wear? Did you tell a dumb joke? She will appreciate that you savor those memories.

2. Breakfast picnic in the park. Buy her favorite kind of cereal in the miniature boxes, plus single serve bottles of milk, juice and perhaps a bagel or donut and take her the park for a long lunch or dinner. Too cold? Tuck the kids in early and throw a blanket on the living room floor.

3. Rent that movie. You know that movie she can't watch often enough? Yes, it's the same one you just can't bear to imagine watching again. For Valentine's Day, why not track it down, make her favorite treat and cuddle on the couch while she enjoys the movie she loves with guy she loves even more.

4. Dollar-store date. Give yourselves a budget - $5 each? - and hit your local dollar store. The goal is for each of you to buy things that have sentimental value without the other person seeing what's in your basket until you're home. Each item has to relate to a favorite memory from your relationship.

5. Hand over your phone. Come home early on Valentine's Day and immediately hand your wife your iPhone, pager or Motorola brick. Tell her to ignore the shivers, shakes and other withdrawal symptoms and not return it until the next morning. Then tune the rest of the world out and tune into her.

6. Visit that place. You know that museum, gallery or visitors' center she's always wanted to visit? This just might be the night. Most are free to enter and she'll appreciate that you've been paying attention when you've driven by. Plan well and be sure to call ahead to check operating hours.

7. Take the day off. If your schedule allows, consider taking off the entire day and dedicating it to her. Does she have a honey-do list? Would she enjoy a long walk together? Could you care for the kids while she reads all afternoon on the couch? How about a discount matinee at the movies?

8. Shout "I love you!" 2013-style. In the classic romantic comedies, the man takes the microphone at the concert or yells from the middle of a crowded mall that he loves her with all his heart. In the digital age, why not shout from the rooftops of Facebook or Twitter and appropriately proclaim your feelings online? She'll smile - guaranteed.

9. Make a handmade valentine. We all remember making valentines in elementary school using candy hearts, Red Hots and construction paper. She wouldn't really appreciate that today, would she? Just watch her eyes light up when you hand her something you made by hand with her in individual tastes in mind.

10. Do something she hates. We all have things we just don't care for. Why not pick a few things from her list and knock them out? Iron your own shirts, deep clean the playroom, vacuum her car, or brave that long line at the DMV or post office. Discover what she's been putting off and take on that headache for her.

Mandie the 5th arrived Friday!

Funny how the smallest things can make you smile. On Friday I went to where I get my prostetics, and I had to bring back Mandie the 4th back ( because she was defective), literally she kept falling off. Not really impressive if your body parts start falling off! :) Anyway, I was wearing my older prosthetic Mandie the 3rd and had Mandie the 4th in her box. Ok, are you still with me?
Anyway, as I walked in the receptionist said hi and how can I help you? My reply was " I am getting a new prosthetic and bringing back the old one. Guess it's not every day that you have someone comes in to trade you body parts, is it?" She looked right at me with a smile and said " actually, we do around here!"  It made me laugh and it made me feel good some how that I am not the only one to be swapping body parts. I laughed to, to think what people would say ( that passed by me ) if they knew what I had in the box.
Still I was grateful for the way it made me feel. A little over 4 years ago, there was nothing that I thought would ever make me feel good about my mastectomy, or having to wear a prosthetic for the rest of my life. Naming the prosthetic, did help. I was grateful for it and how I felt ( more normal ) when I had her on. I loved the name Madie, and thought it was a very feminine name. Feeling feminine again, was a long time coming also.
So I proudly took Mandie the 5th home, and told her we were in this together! For that I am thankful! Yes, it is some of the smallest things that bring happiness!
Good night dear friends!

Moments that Matter

I watched this short video this morning, and it was a great reminder of remembering the Moments that really Matter. I loved the message and wrote it down and will share it with you.

"Moments are molecutes that make up ETERNITY!" ~ Neal A. Maxwell

"Its not so much the major events as the small day-to-day decisions...that map the course of our living"     ~ Gordon B. Hinckley

"We would do well to slow down a little. Focus on the significant, and lift our eyes to truly see the things that matter the most."
Strength comes not from frantic activity, but from being settled on a firm foundation of truth and light. It comes from paying attention to the divine things that matter most. Diligently doing the things that matter most, will lead us to the Savior of the world."
~ Dieter F. Uchtdorf

Need to stop, breath and be a part of each Moment. I found that much harder to do as a young Mother with 4 kids, but when I did slow down, it was an amazing view! I have been so blessed, I am a Daughter, Sister, Wife, Mother, Nana and Friend...it doesn't get much better than that.
I guess it is only human to get so busy that we miss the little moments that make our world what it is. I have found it much easier to look for and appreciate ...as I am getting older. I think that gaining that wisdom and knowledge, helps so much with my perspective now. Anyway, it has been a tough week. I have been struggling in many different areas, but today when I watched this video...I had a deep sense of GRATITUDE for all my blessings. I know the struggles are part of the teaching moments...so I need to appreciate them too! Hope you are having a wonderful Sabbath!

If you want to see the video, you can find it here: