Everything Should Come With A Box

Don't you agree?? How much easier our lives would be if the world accepted this simple concept and accepted my humble wisdom.

Let's see. Hmmmm. You would not have to traipse to some hidden gift wrap counter in the farthest corner on the lowest level of a department store to obtain said container when your arms are juggling sacks and receipts and a purse while you are bundled up in some plump winter attire feeling like a beach ball all on your own....perspiring I might add. (Gosh -- can you tell the author, who prefers to wrap packages as opposed to using gift bags, is composing this lovely run-on sentence at Christmas time having recently experienced the role of frustrated shopper herself??)

Then there is the time the harried gift wrappers can't give you a box because they haven't received the latest shipment they were expecting that was due yesterday? And all they can offer are the two extremes -"Would you like a coat or a tie box, Ma'am??" Ahhhhh!!! So what are you supposed to do? Hope that you haven't thrown away that last shoebox your child's Adidas came in or the shirt box you had used previously for the three birthdays and Father's Day you already celebrated during the year??

Yep, that famous quotation floats into the consciousness of the now -- "My Kingdom for a horse". Guess those feelings of angst are generations old. I understand that some are much more important than others with farther reaching serious consequences. But, heck, all I wanted was a box.

This Machine We All Share

The Body. What an incredible invention. It has been around for thousands of years and has taken humanity much a part of that timeframe to even figure out how it all works, let alone replicate the pieces/parts. There is no patent on this machine. No one has ever stolen the pattern or the mold in order to reproduce it as a cheaper rate or to make a fortune or to create competition.

Think about it. This collection of tubes, screws, liquids, motors, chemicals, filters, wires, electricity, rubber bands, plumbing fixtures all covered in a shell of canvas and fur is beyond the realm of incredible. It is the stuff of pure fantasy.

Wow. This apparatus does it all. Walks. Talks. Sees. Thinks. Communicates. Laughs. Cries. On an on. It breaks down on the inside and is injured on the outside. It gets broken. It wears out.
It stiffens, swells, expands. It stretches and shrinks. It turns colors like brown, red, black&blue. It gets spots. It itches. It burns. It gets invaded. It can kill or repel alien intruders.

It is fine-tuned through a miraculous titsy-bitsy, teeny-weeny microscopic architectural blueprint that is so far past mind boggling that comprehension is surpassed. This intricate recipe allows the appliance to heal itself. Inside and out. To reproduce. To have talent. To make this planet a better place.

Ah. Did you catch it? The concept. This invention wasn't created to be static like a robotic automaton. This machine was blessed with endless possibilities. Are you taking advantage of yours? Respect and be awestruck by what you "are". Orchestrate your gifts and make a difference to the other machines that surround yours.

Labels of Life

My youngest niece and her husband are going to have their first child in January. I was thinking last evening as I did the dishes about how their world will change once the little one arrives. And I was reminiscing how I felt the first time I had someone call me "Mom" after our son was born. I LOVED it! I was one of those now -- a mother-- and it felt so right.

As I savored that memory, the word "family" arose to capture my thoughts. Because not only had I gained the former tag (just as my husband was now "Dad), we also could claim this latter term together. Being a "couple" or "married" was wonderfully sufficient for those years we shared together in the front end of our marriage but that bright-eyed infant changed it all. "Wife" is one I am especially proud of.

Once the floodgates of brainstorming opened I realized how many labels actually exist in my life. "Graduate" brings memories of that special, proud tingle I felt when I reached out to received my diplomas being extended to me from my high school principal and then my college dean. No one's smile was bigger than mine. I had done it. Woo-Woo!!! Watch out, World!!

"Sister", "daughter", "niece", "granddaughter", "daughter-in-law" all signify deep emotional bonds in my heart. The professional titles I have earned are woven into my life's resume. I am pleased to have studied and achieved those significant letters that now appear after my name.

"Christian" is not just a label but a vital personal claim. "Volunteer" reflects a soul-held desire to be a part of the lives that exist around me.

What are the labels of your life? I plan on adding a few more....how about you??

The Instrinsic Value of Thank You

About two weeks ago I gave a list of specific blessings that I was acknowledging by giving thanks publicly. Those individually mentioned had each added immeasurable dimension in my life. Today I want to shift thinking about that subject of Thanks by just a few degrees so to speak.

When you audibly share "thank you" to someone, do you ever "visually absorb" (Don't you like that more colorful prose I invented for the seemingly plain choice, "observe"?) what happens to that person in a purely physical sense? Did their altered facial expression ever register a reaction in your brain that made you blink? Made you realize that your sincere offering touched and actually altered the reality of their day? Created a blip on their personal radar? Their eyes brighten, focus sharpens. Their countenance lightens. Their mouth corners lift seemingly by invisible lighter-than-air strings. All are shining responses, reflections bounced back at you for a simple human kindness.

Wonderful habits bring wondrous returns. Heartfelt outreaches explode exponentially. For a very small investment incredible profits are guaranteed. This bears repeating.....guaranteed. This simple plan never loses value, infinitely retains its priceless status.

My Little Blue Book

The little black book. That iconic symbol of little secrets and juicy personal histories. What wondrous revelations and private details one could discover scribbled on the pages between the covers, if one had the opportunity...or motive.

I don't own a little black book. I, on the other hand, have a little blue book (ever the individualist). I started mine over 10 years ago. Is it filled with names and dates and gossip tidbits to make your brain spin out of control from the shock of it all?????

Oh, that I wish it would. But, no. Mine is filled with the lists of my life. I can't carry my computer with me ( Sorry, I don't own an iPhone or a Blackberry. Well...actually I'm not sorry at all. I'm perfectly happy with my little 'ole plain cell.) But I have a very portable collection of plethora (don't you just LOVE that word) which serves me as well as any memory stick.

Let's see. Oh! There's the listing of new items we have purchased from cars to appliances to furniture. And what to pack when traveling depending on the mode of transportation. Destinations I want to visit. Can't forget the charities I'm going to donate some of my as-yet-to-be-made fortune (or lottery winnings) to when the time comes. Restaurants I want to dine in sometime. Friends I want to have lunch with--and I am actually making inroads with that goal!! You should see the eight pages of books I want to read. There's a list of movies to watch as well.

I believe it is the Marines that have a dictate something like "Live by the code". Interpret that for my life and it becomes "Live by the list". Maybe some day my little blue book will grow up to morph to that black connotation.

Nah. Probably not. Which means my existence won't be fraught with gossip rag junk and stuff that gets leaked and lies and ugliness. Hey! How cool is that!!?!

My Favorites in Honor of Oprah

Every year Oprah has one show dedicated to her "favorites". This year's episode is to be broadcast today. That inspired me to compile my own TOP TEN list that I would be televising if I were indeed her. So here we go!

Julie's Top Ten Favorites List for 2008

Enough hot water for six extra long relaxing showers
$100 Gift certificate to a book store of your choice.
One pound handmade Triple Mints from Wittich's Fine Candies
(a family owned confectionery in Circleville, OH, since 1840)
Two Graeters White Tower Sundaes-that's all I can handle in a year!
One dozen Great Harvest Oatmeal Walnut Chocolate Chip cookies
One weekend for two at the Greenbriar Resort
One weekend for yourself on Sanibel Island, Florida
One box (200 pieces) of beautifully monogrammed stationery
Three paid vacation days -- what you do is your choice!
A spa weekend for you & 5 friends at Landoll Castle, Loudonville,OH

"Tune in" here next year for ten more of life's little pleasures. Now pretend you're Oprah --what would you choose? Mmmmm. Think about it...

Giving Thanks

I'm sure all of you have some type of Thanksgiving tradition where you and your family share what you are most thankful for during the past year or in your daily lives. Reflecting on those blessings is rewarding because you remind yourself consciously and audibly of someone or something that has touched your life and made a difference.

Here is my list for 2008:

1. Having the ability to forgive
2. Being able to walk anytime day or night in my neighborhood
without the sound of gunfire
3. Older ladies who have been incredible mentors to me --I
have had that rare gift since I was four years old
4. The ability to read
5. Having an older sister who is wise beyond her years
6. Watching the process of my son growing into himself
7. Still reaping the benefits of a college education
8. That I live in a state where destructive weather is rare

I wish for you a holiday that allows you to recognize the blessings in your heart and the privilege to send a prayer of thanksgiving to the Lord above for what you hold dear. He listens no matter how simple the praise. He hears the pure sincerity in your voice.

I WON THE LOTTERY!!!!! WOO-WOO!!!!!!!!!

This is the one single statement my husband was absolutely eye-squinting-face-puckered-up dreading ever having me shrilly scream into his ear. You see each of us used to buy a $1.00 ticket for the big Wednesday night state lottery drawing. We would watch the short television spot as the ping pong balls were air blown around the lucite cage and wait holding our breath hoping this was our lucky week. Our chance to grab the brass ring. The lure of a 25 Million dollar prize by spending such a little amount was worth our individual investments. We did it for a couple of months but then we just kind of stopped.

My husband was relieved when I didn't win with my ticket because he said I would probably have wanted to give most of it away. We both laughed when he confessed his concern because we both knew he was absolutely right!! I would love to be in the position to have enough money to share. How fantastic would that be to make living conditions better, medical treatments affordable, help those less fortunate, provide college scholarships, erase retirement worries, grant holiday wishes?

Guess that's why the current spotlight on the very small percentage of disgustingly paid executives or outrageously contracted sports figures make me so very angry. No one "needs" all the millions they are grabbing. We all only have to have just so much to live comfortably. If someone has a skill or intelligence and is given more for it I believe we all appreciate and accept that pay scale. But Heavens Sakes -- fleecing a company by pure greed while so many could use just a tiny portion to simply survive another day is not only something just this side of evil....it is just plain sad.

Knowing that all across this country there are thousands of families and working folks and children and community groups who with all sincerity work tirelessly to extend monetary and emotion support to their neighbors is heart-warming and a tribute to the innate goodness that does exist. That's why I hope someday I do win.

Why? Because one of my biggest dreams is to be a real life fairy godmother. Wouldn't that be life changing? And liberating? And refreshing? And just way too much fun! To put more smiles on peoples' faces when relief comes their way, to hear big relieved sighs when cares are erased, to share happy tears with those who will be given new opportunities and fresh beginnings. Whoops!!? There goes that crazy "make dreams come true" wand again!! I cannot wait for that to happen. Watch out, World, when it does!!!

Collecting Friends

I sent an email to a friend this week and told her how blessed I was to have her in my life. I met her about a year and a half ago at an industry gathering. Oh, my! She just "sparkled". Funny, talented, polished, fresh, well traveled, well read. Found later that she is an author, an actress (yes, you just might recognize her), columnist. She is very special.

I have a couple that are very dear to me. Met them when I was working in tandem with their interior decorator. We hit it off like three peas in a pod. We email, meet for lunch, share birthdays together. Two more friends. How lucky am I?!

A customer of mine has become a very special mentor and friend. Her mind is like a steel trap. Her memory is unparalleled. We share the same interests and tastes. I look forward to every visit. Totally unexpected. Another addition to the collection.

I could go on and on and on.......

With every person who crosses your path, be ever watchful for those you want to keep for your very personal, extra-special collection of friends. There is no greater treasure than those we surround ourselves with...and with no monetary payment what so ever. No museum to build, no curio cabinet to fill. Totally intangible, immensely more valuable. In fact: Priceless.

Grown Out of My Little Girl Voice

For years, we are talking into my forties, solicitors would ask "Is your mother there?" when I answered the phone. I took great delight in telling them that no, she was not and promptly hung up the phone. I just had one of those voices that sounded younger than my age....especially over the phone.

I have realized that number one: I don't get that response much these days and, number two: I want to be recognized as being a woman who has come to be her own person in spirit and resolve as well.

I am not a child anymore but find that for the generation above me, that concept doesn't hold much merit. I am still considered by many to be a "girl" who, though valued for her loyalty and faith and work ethic, still is sort of swept aside when it comes to being accepted as an adult.

I know I have shocked some of those same folks when I state my opinion. You can see it their slightly confused expression. It's as if there is one of those digital moving message signs plastered on their foreheads and their unspoken thoughts read like this: "whatever happened to the little gal we knew * this can't possibly be her* who did this to her * where did she get these ideas * who gave her permission to talk like this to us * we don't accept she has changed * this is not how she was raised ".

You get the picture. And I'm sure you have experienced something very similar once or twice or three times in your life. The frustration grows from your desperate need to be taken seriously. To be accepted for being an individual with your very own brain and your very own life path that although it can run parallel with some, weave in and out of others or cross a course of another's only once has it's own vitality and spunk and sweetness and laughter and perspective on life.

OK, so that was a very long run-on sentence that my eighth grade English teacher Mrs. Irma Leatherberry would have greatly frowned upon. I purposefully chose that form of construction to encompass an enormous amount of passionate personal emotion crunched in between the beginning capital letter to the concluding choice of punctuation.

As you have probably gathered I have experienced these bumps a few times lately so I am sporting sort of a seeping, open tender wound where this subject is concerned. It has been another life lesson that will be posted on my "Never Do This To Your Own Child List" that I brush off and update from time to time.

I leave you with this challenge: accept and receive those folks who cross your path with a respectful and open mind today....you just may be startled by what you let yourself discover.

I'll Bet You A Quarter That....

I'm going to share a personal secret with you: If I ever say that to you DO NOT take the bet. I will win. No doubt. No margin for error. It is carved in stone. As you know, the bragging rights and the pride of besting someone are so much more important than the bet itself so the quarter is a minor detail. But I don't lose my quarters no matter how insignificant they may seem to you.

I was ironing this weekend providing the perfect opportunity to let my mind wander. I began to review my life over the last five years. What was so startlingly evident was the about-face changes I had made....180's where,without question, I would have lost my quarters. Here are a few.

I would have called you *!*CRAZY*# if you would have bet me that I would attend the contemporary church service instead of the traditional. I have always loved the comfort of being led to-about-the-same-pew every Sunday morning by an usher you knew, following the predictable pattern of the service, listening to the sermon from the lectern, having the choirs share music, the congregation singing the wonderful old hymns. More often now I sit in a folding chair, listen to a band, read the words off a screen for the songs we sing. I have found for me it's good to shake the old cobwebs out of our spiritual life. (Psst! I will admit I do have to slip back into the sanctuary every once in a while to get my hymn-fix. Love those beautiful melodies.)

Me?? Exercise??? Let along join a gym!?? Now think. Remember me in gym class? I was the one who did not want to be there. Had no interest in jumping over the gymnastics horse or trying to stand on my head or getting sweaty and having (yes, it was enforced) to take that stupid shower before going to the next period. My hand put out to accept your quarter was a sure thing. Yet here I am three times a week (at least) riding the bike, doing the treadmill, going through my routine on the machines. And absolutely loving it. Very scary.

How many times I have scoffed at the colors of brown and green used for interior decoration. Couldn't even stand the thought. I grew up in the 60's and "Early American" was popular. Eagles, browns, oranges, greens and heavily napped carpeting. UGH. But forty years later I have discovered a rich, elegant tone of Taupe that is makes-my-teeth-hurt incredibly gorgeous to me and Sage Greens-quiet, calming shades that have poked a hole in that "Eck!! Green!" bubble I had erected.

Drink diet pop? I'd rather cut off my arm first. The after-taste was enough to make me forget my thirst. Now? Give me that Diet Dr.Pepper. I am not kidding you. Pure and simple: I am addicted.

Make my living in sales?? You are insane??!? Talk about make-my-skin-crawl-go-hide-in-my-closet-no-I-will-not-you-can't-make-me absolute abhorance. I hated selling Girl Scout cookies. Dreaded the community canvas Donut Sale for my high school band. Knocked on doors in my neighborhood selling annual subscriptions to our local paper. Every time I drug my feet to the houses on my street and posed the perverbial question in my own special way: "You don't want to buy (cookies, subscription or donuts), do you? Everyone always answered "Why yes!I've been expecting you!" in a most joyous manner. (gag) And here I am collecting a paycheck, looking forward to each day, interacting with my customers and the goals I set for myself.

Think about your own life changes. There have been a few, haven't there? Some shockers even. Ones you never thought would happen. Probably will be some more before your life is over. (Hmmm) I just betcha.....

Mid Life Crisis

My friends were freaking out when they turned 30 -- I laughed at them. To the their faces.

My friends were spazzing out when they reached the age of 40 -- I scoffed in their presence.

When I turned 50 my mortality smacked me right in the face. My friends got their revenge.

I have not changed my eating habits. My weight remains the same. Yet this body of mine is daily changing before my eyes. My shape is developing bumps/lumps that are driving me absolutely loony.

Gray hairs are popping out all over. I look in the mirror each morning to see another one staring at me from an eyebrow that I swear was not there yesterday. My tweezers are getting a workout.

I have annoying aches and pains in my lower back, a couple finger joints and my heart does a few strange rhythms every so often.

I look back at my 20's, 30's and 40's and wonder why I didn't do a little more of "this" or "that".

I am debating when to cut my hair. You know "older" ladies just don't wear longer locks.

I have started taking vitamins and supplements I had not heard of two years ago like Glucosamine Chondroitin, Omega3 Fish Oil and baby aspirin.

I joined a gym. Me. In a gym. Mind boggling.

The two piece bathing suit has permanently left my reality. Tank suits here I come!!

I have to tell you I am NOT liking the physicality of this growing older stuff. Not one little bit. I am grappling with the fact that it is my turn to experience what I can do nothing to stop. Zip Nada. To use a favorite expression of mine from years past which sums up my current struggles perfectly -- "This is really yucky!!!"

Truly Profound

Do you ever find yourself literally spellbound by an intense truth or reality? Has a universal concept really sunk through the layers of your life and finally made you catch your breath? The actually of what this thought represents seriously jolts your brain so that you must physically stop what you are doing and take the time to let your consciousness wrap itself around the WHAT and the HOW? Contrasted to the proverbial light bulb comes on adage which plucks a "dah-moment" cord for the masses, I am talking about very personal and introspective "whoa" moments. Let me share some of mine with you and see if you have, as well, experienced similar mind-stopping situations.

I worked out in the yard yesterday afternoon preparing the garden for the winter. I was cutting back the clumps of Sedum and came in contact with the extremely sharp canes left over from last year's harvest. These woody stems are very much like bamboo stalks and I expect are reminiscent of the slivers pushed under fingernails for torturous purposes....at least that is what my skin was screaming at me. (I know, I know...wear garden gloves and I would have avoided the muliple cuts I now sport. Hey, I was in a hurry and intended to have the job done in quick time.) When I had put all the stems in the yard bag, I noticed the small gouges and thought how nice my hands would be looking at work on the morrow(ha)....but then it hit me. In a week or so my skin will look as if nothing happened. No scabs. No scars. Perfectly healed. No trace of any tears at all. How incredible is that??!? As soon as the epideral layer was cut the cells had begun to rebuild and replace and repair. Think about that. I didn't tell them to do their job. There was no memo or email or text message or meeting. Our bodies are mind-boggling machines filled with constant life forces all directed by microscopic masterminds directing every complicated mission our very breath depends on. Wow.

The fact that two itsy-bitsy cells unite and our race is procreated in infinite detail is crazy.

Look up at the sky on a dark, clear night and gaze at the stars and planets glow back at you knowing that the light you see left that surface years ago traveling at the speed of over a hundred thousand miles per second. Or experience a glorious meteor shower or look at an lunar eclipse through a huge telescope. Leaf through pages of a magazine showing photos of the Milky Way from the Hubble telescope. Now do you feel like a little tiny piece of this mind-blowing puzzle?

Think of the life of the one man who saved mankind by sacrificing his own through his pure and unselfish love. Then consider all of the others who have willingly given theirs following his example.

All miracles. All gifts. Truly, in the purest form, awesome.

They Come and They Go....

Tuesday night there was a message on the answering machine which was both unexpected and delightful. It was a man's voice and he didn't identify himself at the beginning. As I listened to his tone and words my memory was working overtime. I recognized the phrasing and timbre and it instinctively felt really "good" as I feverishly flipped through the brain's filing system to put a name with the noise, so to speak. I spoke his name just as he stated his name.

This gentleman was a coworker and friend back in the '90's who had moved to California to pursue career opportunities. The memories of working together flowed over me and I "grew" a big smile as each significant remembered moment flashed on the screen in my head. I loved all the colorful times we shared, the drama and the laughs. Hearing from him again was a serendipitous blessing.

His message started out by stating a quote of mine which he had carried with him since 1998. He asked me if I remembered saying, "They come and they go. And then you forget their name." which he smoothly followed by asking me in perfect context if I remembered him. That's when his voice flipped the switch and I embraced his name and laughed softly at the concept that the quote had encompassed for the two of us. I called the number he left and he answered right away. He asked me if I could place when and where I had spoken those words because he could!! So we relived the specific evening when we had attended a company dinner together, the two of of us supplying pieces to the scenario puzzle, drawing bubbling laughter from each other that felt so darned good. We spent fifteen minutes catching up on the eight years spent apart. The other half of this blessing was that he was at that very moment having dinner with two friends whom I knew and I additionally had a chance catch up with both of them as well.

The theme of this story? Surprises come in all shapes, sizes and forms. Keep your eyes open. The moral to this story? You never know when the words you speak will carve a remembered moment in someone else's life. Keep your heart open.

The Underwear Drawer

Do you have a secret place where you tuck things away from all the other eyes and hands in your house? You know....like the ten dollars you received for your birthday...or the package of M&M's you shouldn't have bought...or the credit card receipt for those very expensive jeans you really weren't supposed to get on this month's budget....wonderful goodies like those.

Come on. Admit it. We've all stashed away a few things in our lifetime. When the time is right these items "appear" Very Very quietly in the realm of the light of day. And when your husband notices the new top several weeks down the road you can honestly say, "Honey, I have had this for a while now" and feel totally justified. *(In my case it is usually my son who vocalizes his observation and that generally grabs my husband's attention so quick it makes your head spin! I gotta tell you my quiet, smooth introduction is much more manageable and, ok let's be honest, sly.)

My personal choice for years has been my underwear drawer. No real reason for anyone to snoop there because who wants to get into Mom's chest of drawers where all that girlie stuff is. On the whole it's been a pretty safe spot. Now think about your own home and I'm sure you can picture some very obtuse hiding spots perfect for you.(Psst!! -- like where you keep Christmas wrapping paper and bows. And there's the picnic basket downstairs on the dusty basement shelf. Or how 'bout in the kitchen-- in the corner- in the back-in the dark behind the pressure cooker and the cheese domes?) Well, maybe those are not easily accessible for quickly poked (and retrieved) goodies. Guess you're on your own to figure the choicest ones for your purposes.

I must admit that after 30 years I am hiding less. Makes life easier if you just talk about your intended purchase. For years I would ask for forgiveness (bypassing the "permission" part) by pleading my case with the admission that insanity completely overwhelmed my usual good sense and MADE me buy it. As well you know, DISCIPLINE is my middle name and my other half always sympathized with the crippling urge that overtook my brain like some mind-bending alien at the checkout counter and caused me to act so out of character.

You laughing yet or just waiting for the lightening to strike...better stand back. No, really. Take my advice. Stand back. Watch out!!!!!!!!!!! (Flash of blinding light!! Eardrum splitting cccrrack!!! Smell of acrid smoke....) Well, now, now. Don't get all upset. I told you to protect yourself. So maybe the next time you'll listen .... and your eyebrows won't get singed.

..."And God said, "Just keep looking..."

When I was working at the flower shop I was initially hired as a designer then moved to the position of a phone order taker during non-holiday periods then was put in charge of all store displays/all Christmas themes -- usually 16 to 18)/all inventory back-stock. I was also a buyer and LOVED our trips to Atlanta (staying at the Ritz and sipping a virgin Strawberry daiquiri at 11pm were two salves for the 10 hour days spent on my feet) and Dallas (savoring a steak at Bob's Restaurant) to expand our giftware and store merchandise.

We had two very large storerooms for all the extra items not displayed in the shop's layout. My office was near them. (I actually reorganized the largest one all by myself and I had to be familiar with all the various lines to be able to find them for my display purposes.) Not a week went by without a harried saleslady rushing up to my desk desperately asking me where "such and such" was because it just wasn't there and a customer needed one right now!!! I would immediately assume my soothing "it will be all right" voice and escort them back into the stockroom and proceed down the row of shelves where the lost item should reside. I would listen to their frustrated rant as they explained they had done all they possibly could do to locate the missing gift item and how-could-it-not-be-there-and-what-stupid-person-put-it-somewhere-else-and.... I would calmly nod my head to communicate my bonding with their situation and tell them I agreed the search and placement were constant constraints considering all of the merchandise we carried. Then I would share my coup de gras that always caught them unawares. "Now I know this is very upsetting but let me tell you what I always remind myself of in these situations. Don't lose your focus. You know the item is here. I will be happy to be another pair of eyes because we must remember the Lord's advice."

Well, that always grabbed their attention the first time they heard me say that! The lady would look at me with a sort of wide-eyed quizzical expression and wonder what was coming next. "I know this is not a direct quote from the Bible but in my own words when I am in a pickle and feel myself getting uptight I remember the advice God shared with his followers ...."Just keep looking" (you know-- wandering through the desert for 40 years, the three wise men following the star, etc etc). Their initial facial reaction could be read as either "WHAT??!?" or "HUH!!?!". Then they would giggle and relax when what I said sunk in and we would find the box of whatever they needed tucked behind something else or on the floor underneath or somewhere close by. The salesclerk was then smiling when she returned to the customer, her treasure hunt successful and having enjoyed the support of a fellow employee.

So just repeat this phrase, one of my little Julie-isms, whenever you need to in your life. Please feel free to share it with folks (especially your children to keep YOU calm). And don't be surprised to hear these six words repeated back to you during the next adventure of searching for socks....or shoes....or their little brother....

Oh, Look! A Duck!!

There is a catalog of baseball caps, T-shirts and sweatshirts (and a few coffee cups and such) called What on Earth. Each piece has a quote or saying or smart remark. Every year I receive one around Christmas and laugh my head off. Not kidding. There is always one or two that I think are priceless.

The last edition showed a sweatshirt with a notation that has become a part of my everyday life. I cut it out of this smallish sized book and have it taped where I can see it everyday at work. My fellow employees now say it as well. It really has quite the universal appeal. In this one sentence my entire existence at this point in my life is succinctly summed up .....And I'm telling you right now I never, NEVER want you to have to go through this so take my advice and simply refuse to let this happen to you. Female or male. It doesn't matter.

The gist of the message is: "Some people say I have ADD Oh look! A duck!" That's it. This one grammatically incorrect sentence has become the mantra in my everyday life. I have become this totally unorganized, unfocused mess. The cause you ask? One word says it all: Menopause. The M word. Because of this hormonal crappy stage in life my brain has turned to mush, sleep eludes me, a lovely rosy blush now beams from my cheeks without the aid of any pinky-toned fluid or powdered cosmetic, a small tabletop fan now graces my work desk, lose my train of thought in the middle of a sentence and I have no short-term memory whatsoever. In short I have become a blubbering idiot.

Case in point: Day off three weeks ago. Got up and started the yard sprinkler. I was in the kitchen doing dishes when I got the hankering for chocolate chip cookies. Pulled out the mixing bowl, gathered the ingredients, added the flour, sugar and margarine to the bowl when I remembered I needed to call for a doctor's appointment. Walked to my bag to retrieve my address book in the spare bedroom. Called two friends. Went to the computer and looked up some info off Google that I needed. Decided to start laundry so took the baskets to the basement and put a load in the washer. Saw a can of pork and beans on the pantry shelf which sparked the concept for the menu for dinner so I carried that and some baking potatoes upstairs, sat them on the counter and pulled ham out of the freezer. Looked at the clock and decided to run my errands to get them out of the way.

Have you figured it out yet? The sprinkler was on for FOUR hours in one spot. Some dishes still sat on the counter unwashed. I never called the doctor. The laundry wasn't ever started and the cookies didn't get baked until almost dinner time.

So listen to me people!!?! When your body clock starts to give you the signs that IT is coming, I want you to refuse to let it happen. Trust me. Your life will be thrown into utter chaos. Take my advice. For the love of God don't let it happen to you!!! Run!!! Run as fast as you can!!!!!! ...AAAAHHHHHHHH!

Being Abe Lincoln

That's what we called living for seven days without electricity due to Hurricane Ike. From Sunday, September 14th, when the 75mph winds whipped through this entire state for eight incredible hours (at one time our son in SW Ohio, us and my inlaws in NE Ohio were all out at the same time -- go figure!!?!) to Sunday the 21st when crews from Tennessee and Virginia brought our grid back up we were sharing the lifestyle of young Abe (you know....those stories we read about him studying by the burning logs in his cabin fireplace ...similar to walking home 18 miles for lunch...ok, ok maybe that was overkill...).

I was being my usual Pollyanna-self, stressing the blessings of water (yes, plenty of that, even abundantly hot) AND cool temperatures (opened the windows at night for refreshing breezes to float through the bedroom), and I got to burn the candles I had collected over the years and never had used!! I learned to run my errands after 7:45pm when the house got too dark. The stores are open until 9p or 10p, my gym until 11p, and of course, restaurants as well. So I nudged my husband into learning to flip the schedule a bit. (We just followed that famous movie line from Poltergeist, "Go toward the light.....")

About Thursday my other half had had just about enough of my cheery attitude....all he wanted was the darned ability to flick the switches on again!! And once the lines were repaired we found ourselves only turning on those lights we really needed. Hey! We lived a week with zilch and I guess you could say we adapted pretty darned well without that new-fangled invention by Mr. Edison. I do believe Mr. Lincoln would have been very proud.

HINT: I found some great 6-volt battery flashlights ($3.97) so I bought 2 and a Coleman lantern with fluorescent bulb/battery run ($19.97 + cells) at Lowe's and they helped illuminate our dinners and our pathways around the house. Go grab one/some now. You just never know when those little goodies will come in handy.....

Life as a Sponge

Mine began in earnest my senior year in high school....one of the greatest times in my life (hold on now-- those reflections are for another day's entry). A classmate, who was the class president, gave me an off-the-cuff compliment one day after a class we were sharing that caught me totally off-guard. (Background: It surprised me because first, we weren't at all close friends, and secondly, she wasn't the type to hand these out. During this point in the school years we had been working on a Class Board project together. I found her comfortable to work with and she found me efficient and detail-oriented.) She told me that she knew she could tell me anything knowing I would keep it to myself. She was confident there would be no leaks, no fodder for gossip. She thanked me and told me how much she appreciated that from someone she didn't know very well.

WHOA. Now on the one hand that is very, very nice to hear. Yet, on the other, I now had a big responsibility to really watch what I said. No room for inadvertent comments. No "Oops! I didn't mean to say that!" moments. No excuses for slippage. I had become a designated Person-To-Trust.

You know how hard that is in high school!!?? Man, you get a juicy piece of gossip dropped in your lap and you just want to share it in a big way because of the power that tidbit gave you especially if it was about someone super popular or someone you really didn't like. And what if the news was one of those jaw-dropping you've-got-to-be-kidding-me spectacular bombshells??! Well, shoot. Those prospective bright and shining moments in the "whispered comments" world had just been swept away in a heartbeat.

So as I walked down the hallway lamenting the loss of great and endless possibilities, I was also rejoicing in my new found status. Because you know what?? I found I learned a whole lot more keeping my mouth shut than I ever would have if I was still a regular cog in the rumor mill. Pretty cool. And it is true. Knowledge is a formidable power to wield in the hallowed halls of high school. Life WAS good and still is as my role hasn't changed in all the years since that defining moment.

My Favorite Annual Appointment

Every woman who reads this will absolutely identify. Without question it is one of the most important gifts you can give yourself. No matter how you personally feel about this exam, you MUST do this for your own health and piece of mind and that of your family. All that being said.....

I have gone to the same OB/GYN for 21 years. I respect him as a doctor and like him as a person. We get along just great and just talk about anything. Now. Those first few years were a tad bit rough.

I call this the "Scoot down...a little more...Ok, stop. That's good" appointment. My analogy: Me lying on the table being given both audible and visual signals on how and where to place myself is like being an airplane slowly rolling across the tarmac with one of those orange-cone waving airport employees guiding me into a good position for the lock with the loading gate tunnel. Once you are in position the cones are crossed, employee stops walking backward and you're good. Except in my personal scenario I am now lying there feeling like I'm totally uncovered for the entire nation, hearing those seven familiar little words, "It's going to be a little cold."

I don't know about you but the first time I was with my doctor I felt a whole lot embarrassed. Heck, it is like you're screaming, "Hey!! Here I am!! I'm feeling a little vulnerable and very exposed so hurry up about it, will ya?" How did I handle it? The first year I said (total truth here) trying to break the ice a bit , "So, is it dark down there?" He slowly raised his eyes and very quietly, very professionally replied with something like, "This won't take long. Let me complete this test."(when he was actually thinking, "Oh, great. I got a comedienne on the table and I just want to get through this as easily as possible.") The second year I asked, "Does everyone look pretty much the same?" thinking that if I were he I would MUCH rather be delivering babies than conducting Pap tests. This time he obviously felt more at ease with me since I was making another one of my quirky inquiries to lighten the atmosphere. His reply, again very professional and softly spoken, was "Shut up, Julie" and I started to giggle. By the third year we were totally comfortable with each other, conversing like old friends through all of the exam asking about vacations, dogs, kid, spouses. And this year we celebrated my 21st exam together and over the years our dogs have passed on and new ones found to love, careers have changed in my family, child has gone to college, lots of vacations enjoyed. We have laughed together. Cried together.

I still ask occasional questions during the exam just to relive the good old times. He still gives me the look. And, come to think about it, he never did answer my questions.

Acting Like an Adult (RATS!)

Let me tell you about what happened to me last week. You can identify, I'm sure.

Had a customer who placed an order. TWO WEEKS LATER (about 10 days ago now) I was told by our office staff that the item was on back order and the vendor "hoped" to ship within 5 days. Whoa -- not good. So I didn't get mad or frustrated (Yes, I know it's hard to believe calm-cool-me EVER reacting that way. HA!). I just kicked into "alternative mode" and called another vendor whose product I like and talked to them. They were to drop ship the item to an artisan who needed to put a special touch on it and he would send the package onto to us in plenty of time. Done. Everyone was on board and all knew their specific piece of the puzzle.

Well.....(you know what's coming).....the second vendor never sent his product to the artist and I found out Friday morning (when the customer was coming at 5pm that evening) after I had repeatedly asked if we had received a box from Massachusetts. Here was another chance for a good 'ole, really ripe, kicking and screaming temper tantrum where I could blame others and seem like I had every right to do so, you with me? Oh, man, what an opportunity. But I didn't. I acted like an adult (RATS!!). What saved this scenario? I knew the original item had arrived and was on display. So I nabbed one of them and called the customer. Explained the situation and told her how I was going to solve it. She TOTALLY understood, wholeheartedly accepted my solution, and thanked me for all the help I had given her. Whew!! She had every right to tee off on me, rant and rave on how this had inconvenienced her....but she didn't. And I thanked her in kind for her pleasant understanding and acceptance and silently said a prayer thankful for her reaction along with the coincidence of the in-store arrival of the perfect substitute.

I know all of you have had similar situations. Sometimes it works out and sometimes it doesn't. The former feels really good....and the later stinks big time. Let's be happy that the odds are more in our favor than not.

My Obsession with Reading

Once upon a time there was a little second grade girl who LOVED school..... Yep, that's how it all started for me. My teacher, Mrs. Weaver (who looked just like Mrs. Piggle Wiggle of the stories I giggled all the way through), had a summer reading contest and I was bound and determined to win. Why? Three reasons: I loved to read, I wasn't allowed to go to summer school, and I was competitive (imagine that!!). That second reason was the benchmark as I just couldn't understand why I couldn't go. Even with all the DRAMA AND TEARS I could produce there was no persuading my teacher nor my parents. (I didn't comprehend that the concept of summer school was to give additional scholastic help to those in need. Hey, I just wanted to go and have more time in the classroom!)

She devised a program where the students would read a book then fill out a Book Report form and the student who diligently read AND completed the forms well the most would win. Well, I was NOT about to lose and spent all summer engrossed in a myriad of books that I had at home and borrowed from the public library. I filled out those forms judiciously with minute details. And guess what?? I WON -- woo woo!!!! And Mrs. Weaver gave me my prize.......Are you ready for this?? Get ready: it was a forest green metal recipe box with index cards inside. Yep, that's right. A recipe box. Did I think it was the most wonderful gift? Absolutely. Was I proud? I beamed from ear to ear when she handed it to me. Do I still have it? You bet your life I do.

And I have never stopped reading. Been through different "periods" in my life. Started with the with wonderful childrens' books like Mrs. Piggle Wiggle and Paddington and The Bobbsey Twins and then onto the Trixie Belden series. Mysteries were followed by tons of biographies then all the Emilie Loring books (I actually owned the entire series at one point) and, of course, the great novels like Gone With The Wind (if you have never read this incredible story you absolutely must do so!). I devoted a year to reading the Bible as well.

Now? I get totally absorbed in my Smithsonian magazine whenever it arrives(it has everything: science, animals, art, history, discoveries, travel, photography.... ). The articles totally fascinate me. And I'm into well written historical novels with a splash of romance.

Reading is an ability that opens the universe. Share this gift with those around you.

Hurricanes

They are to be taken seriously. The damage that has been seen, documented, lived through can be absolutely enormous. Lives are torn apart, taken, forever changed. The aftermath to clean up the destruction and to rebuild or start anew elsewhere is daunting. We all agree.

The choice to live in the part of the planet where these weather conditions exist on a YEARLY basis is just that....choice. Poverty constricts some from leaving . Family situations effects others. Yet the chance is 99.999 percent that there will be tropical storms and hurricanes for those that reside in the Caribbean, Florida, the Gulf Coast, the southern Atlantic coastal states every July through October every single year. We can all agree with that statement as well.

So when one of these horrific storms hits a populated area every single year one person who gets interviewed will undoubtedly say on camera, "I can't believe God would let this happen." I will share with you that that statement sends me personally right over the edge. Does that person REALLY and TRULY believe that God just decides one day on a whim that He is bored and needs a good 'ole hurricane to add a little excitement to His day and some necessary mayhem to Earth???!? Come on. Do not insult the Lord. You live in Hurricane Alley, it's August, our climate has changed due to Ozone depletion from our pollution, the planet's temperature is rising in places, blah blah blah blah blah ....and you are blaming the Lord.

Just deal with the life you have chosen. Your fellow humans are here to count on for help and support. That's how we share His great love. Agreed? Agreed.

I Lost Two Friends This Week.

I use the word "lost" because I will not see these two gentlemen in this reality anymore. One was a dedicated educator, one was a talented floral designer. Their spouses are hurting right now. I offer words of encouragement and share hugs, as do others, to try and ease their pain yet we can't erase the deep void felt in their hearts right now. Yes, Time will ever so slowly rub away the sharp, raw edges... just as an early morning fog mystically rolls over a landscape unannounced, softly flowing noiselessly. And upon its disappearance a layer of sparkling dew remains to refresh the living.

We have all experienced the jolt our world feels when a loved one passes over to be with our Lord. Our heads understand those folks are treasures we will never forget. They have simply entered eternity before us with the grace and promise we claim as well. Yet our hearts will miss their laughter, their friendship, their love, a touch of their hand.

When you say your prayers today, thank God for all of those who have touched your life...and smile for all of the blessings of those good times shared.

Survival of the Teen Years (Halleluia!! We Did It!)

Our son just turned twenty. There were days I thought this birthday would never arrive...or at least that I would actually live to see it. Why, oh why, are those eight years so crazy and intense?? Would someone please explain to me why one...just one....teen would FINALLY get it and say "Ok. I will be happy to do what you ask." OR "Yes, thanks for the advice. I'll take it!" Really. It would only take a single child to start the trend. Soon their friends would notice how calm and tranquil the life surrounding their buddy is and perhaps they, too, would try a smile and a positive answer.

Oh, my gosh! Can you visualize the look on parents' faces all over this country if that happened??? Total shock and confusion. First they would grab their child and pull them close so they could place their hand on their child's forehead checking for wildly hot fever or grab the phone and call the principal checking on any wild experiment the Chemistry teacher had the students drink or maybe turn on their TV to check for an emergency news bulletin announcing that aliens had landed, stolen all the kids in the area and replaced them with identical looking robots.

I used to say to my son, "Why don't you try something different starting today? If you'd only say "WOW! Think I'll listen today and just simply do as I'm asked. then your life would good and so darned much easier and we, your parents, would be so much happier and off your case." No more dramatics, no more loud arguments, no more high blood pressure, no grounding as a punishment, no more slamming doors...... OK, you get the concept here. But he never did give that a whirl. Not once. (His reply 99 percent of the time? "Why". One little word that drove me over the edge on more than one occasion. To every single request or idea. Tell me that didn't get old. But at least we were prepared for his trademark response and I guess in a strange way it did lend some normalcy to all the many situations we found ourselves thrust into.

So I'm still waiting for that one kid that is willing to make the ultimate sacrifice and utter the one three-letter word that will forever change the world as we know it. Y-E-S. Hope springs eternal for my lifetime. (Pay no attention to the sarcastic overtone. Even Pollyanna had her days.....)

Which Do You Prefer -- the Show or the Commercials?

In this election year let's take a vote. All those who like TV shows raise your hands. (counting, counting... Got it!) Now, all those in favor of commercials raise your hands. I have to tell you my hand went up for commercials. I love imagination. I like a stretch. I love creativity. I like humor. I expect the unexpected.

My current favs? Glad you asked! Betcha they are yours as well:

1. the baby on E-trade especially when he rents the clown
2. the baby on E-Trade calling his golfing partner Shankapotimus
3. GE airplane engine ads with the heron-like birds waiting for the runway to clear
4. Trevelers Insurance dapper gentleman with the huge red umbrella
5. Sprite basketball court "pool"
6. Liberty Mutual's vignettes of people helping each other (lady pulls guy back to curb, postman helps man on ladder, etc.)
7. lactose intolerant rollover phone minutes
8. Mazda's Zoom-Zoom (I always end up whispering these 2 words myself)
9. Hank the Clydesdale making the Anheuser Busch team
10. AFLAC's duck - what a hoot!!
11. Firemen voting on their cell phones for Sprint (what a statement on politicians)

Send me your list under "Comments" below this entry. I look forward to hearing from you!

From Under the Rainbow with Love

I came up with those very personal words and started to sign my letters with that phrase because I truly feel that is where I have been given the grace to live. I love the raw power of the symbol of the rainbow. This glorious magic of nature was named as God's visual sign of the promise He made to Noah that he would never destroy the earth again. Think about that every time you see those vivid bands of color arched across the sky....in the spray of the hose or sprinkler....or in the pounding cascades of Niagara Falls. Isn't it funny that each and every one you see still makes you stop and comment and point it out to someone close by? Why is that? I thought we were just cynical human beings who are bored and complain and take such beauty for granted.

Not so, is it. We are delighted by the exquisite, vibrant miracle that seemingly "appears" so unexpectedly. We react with such free child-like excitement when one is spotted. Never relinquish that gift of forever love. Never remove yourself from dwelling under His incredible eternal protection. So from me to you "From under the rainbow with love" have a fantastic day.

Don't be an "id" -- Do be an "un"'

Catchy title, huh? I was remembering a gathering I was a part of recently and I started to contemplate about the folks I was drawn to spend more of my time with while we were together and the very "why" of those feelings. I discovered that the personalities of guests I withdrew from had the two letters "i - d" as a factor in my assessment. Words like "stupid" (another word for ignorant which is pretty scary in my book), "insipid" (no zip, no spice), timid (I wanted to shock them with a "boo"... or two), tepid (give me hot, hot, hot!!! anytime), and "vapid" (BORING) came to mind. And the people I enjoyed the most were "un's" such as "unnecessary" (those who were willing to try new things, have fun just for the joy of it, enjoy the gift of life) and "unexpected" (the outside packaging hid a wonderful treasure of wit, wisdom, knowledge or soul hidden within) and, most important, "unforgettable" (challenged me to reach for my dreams, earned my admiration, enriched my reality by the blessing of their friendship). I sincerely hope I prove to be an "un" thread in the life tapestries of those whose paths are entwined with mine....especially yours.

Family Traditions -- Be Original. Be Free.

I can honestly say the three we have stuck with are genuinely our very own. Two are very simple but ones we repeat continuously. But the third is a hoot, we know no one else who does it AND has been a WHOLE lot of fun.

The first two are: Every Christmas Eve we eat steak and wherever we go on vacation we buy fudge. Nothing wild or crazy but each is an expectation that is annually met.

The last one, hold on to your inquiring mind, is that we celebrate Groundhogs Day. "Why?" you ask? And the answer is, "Why not?"!! It's a kookie holiday that appears on every calender in the little square that delineates February 2nd all about a furry, fat rodent who eats grasses and digs holes in yards and fields. Sounds like fun to us!!! So every year we watch Bill Murray in Groundhog Day, I search for cards and order gifts to give the guys, bake groundhog-shape cutout cookies for my husband and his staff (yes, they expect them), and receive cards and emails from family and friends all over the country who have decided (FINALLY!) that we're not crazy and they now enjoy sharing the laugh with us.

And if you're wondering if we ever...... The answer is "yes"! On 02-02-02 this family stood with 3,000+ other folks from all over the world up on Gobbler's Knob (at 4:30 AM in 18 freezing degrees) in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, to see Phil make his prognostication announcement. I cannot tell you how it was such an incredibly good, clean "americana" experience. This tiny little old coal town literally "wakes up" just like Brigadoon to welcome these thousands that pour in for a 24 hour period then quietly settles back down for next 364 days. And additionally for your edification: Phil lives year round in a wonder natural environment, complete with a tiny waterfall, in the city library which is located on the edge of the village green.

Ripples -- My Legacy

I decided long ago, after much thought and prayer, that I was like a stone that is tossed into a still pond. At the spot where the rock enters the surface ripples extend out in numerous concentric circles into the body of water. Each day I am "tossed" and new ripples are born. That's my legacy. I had a friend tell me that her husband always knows when she is talking to me on the phone because she laughs during the conversation. What a great compliment....and a great ripple. Recently two associates told me my methods of quiet diplomacy were appreciated in our workplace. Another ripple. Every choice makes an impression. Our love and our opinions and our service to others....ripples. A phone call made, a card sent, a note written, a hand held, a voice heard. Ripples.

We are not all destined to cure cancer or be the President or be a Hollywood star. Most of us are chosen to be strong, flexible, sturdy threads that hold the fabric of life together. I think of the analogy of a spider's web. The innate strength of that gracefully intricate silk creation is so awesome. You can poke it. Blow on it. Spray it. But only way to break it is to absolutely crush it. And when that happens....the spider begins to weave anew. Undaunted. I hope this blog is a ripple you can feel from me in your life everyday and that the personal power you hold within your soul is shared with those you touch in your own pond. Be strong. Be positive. Never give in.

The Perfect Job

We had Chinese for dinner. I like the fortune cookies that are always included. Tend to horde them for myself. I read the sentence printed on the little sliver of white paper. I read it a second time. (It's NOT a good sign when you have to do that, ya know?) This was the message: "The face of nature reflects all of life's ups and downs." HUH?? What the heck does THAT mean? I pondered it for a second or two -- another bad sign, the "pondering" thing -- and became totally annoyed. So the little slip was inhumanely crumpled up and tossed in the wastebasket.

I want that job. Writing quotes for fortune cookies. You can stay in your jammies all day long, plop your fuzzy bunny-slippered feet on the desktop, drink your Pepsi, listen to great music and make up all kinds of esoteric junk. AND GET PAID!!!!!!!! I should have told my parents I wanted to major in journalism in college. Think of how proud they would have been to have a daughter whose insightful wisdoms would have been known throughout the civilized world. Every continent. Every country. Plus "job security". Maybe I should make a career change now. I am confident I could do very well. Very well indeed. Hmmmm. Maybe I should ponder that a bit.....

Pandora.com

My son introduced me to this website and I am telling you it makes me happy. Well, that was sure easy you're saying to yourself right now (Yes, I can hear all of you expressing your opinions and rolling your eyes at my expression of simplistic harmony.) And speaking of harmony.....you will hear loads of it on this website.

All right, what Pandora provides you is the ability to construct your own play lists (aka "radio stations") of artists who have similar musical styles. I have nine stations now and enjoy every one. You will type in an artist--say.....Faith Hill--and along with Faith you will hear Martina McBride, and Carrie Underwood and Keith Urban. Perhaps you are a Sarah Brightman fan. Then along with her you would enjoy Josh Groban, Michael Crawford, Enya, etc. Add a gospel group, some jazz favorite, a little John Mayer or Bon Jovi. You even have editing abilities to delete a song selection!

The best part? Just minimize the screen after you log on and you have this fabulous personal ambiance surrounding your space while you make dinner, cuddle with your dog , check your email or .... write your blog!!

PS Have you notice the time that is published with each entry? There seems to be a 4 hour lag time. But I have to tell you that it really is 4:05AM as I'm tapping this old keyboard. Hey, I had a lot of work to do so I was determined to stay up and finish the pile. My reward?? I should say it's the "satisfaction of completing my tasks" but in reality I told myself I got to write my Wednesday entry. Hmmm...some chocolate probably would have done the trick as well....

Composing Your "REMEMBER" List

Ok, so we all have "To Do" lists and we are constantly adding to the "Places I Want to Go" list and there's the "Books I Want to Read/Movies I Want to See" list and don't forget the "Things to Pack for Vacation" list (which of course works in reverse and becomes the "Things Not to Forget" list for the trip home). OH! And I have a "Gift" list which has morphed into a bulging file folder filled with ideas for family and friends.

But my personal favorite...and most important in my humble opinion....is my REMEMBER list. These are the essentials to never forget in my future. Number One: NEVER impose your taste on others. I know you, too, have been in situations when you have received one or two or ten(!) themed gifts that the giver seems to truly believe you need/should have/want. An example?? How about the Christmas ornament you open from your Aunt Helen every year with some sort of Elvis theme because she heard the last few words of a conversation where you said, ".....like Elvis." What she doesn't realize is that you were saying, "Hey, look!!!! Doesn't this potato's shape look like Elvis?" And after you received the first five you decided that you didn't have the heart to hurt poor Aunt Helen's feelings so after your family has a good laugh at this year's choice you toss it in the trash. Good thing the aunt lives in East Overshoe, Montana, and never comes to visit at the holidays so there never has to be an embarrassing "I can't wait to see your tree covered in all those glorious ornaments I have so lovingly sent you" moments. (Yep, that's what we all strive for at the holidays....NO STRESS. NO GUILT.

Number Two is to stay close to my son and his family-to-be. (Whenever-that-happens. No-rush.)
Number Three is not to be a nuisance but let them know we are available to babysit so we can have time with the kids and give my son and his wife alone-time.
Number Four is to be gracious and a lady.
Number Five is not to be an old crabby fuddy-duddy.
Number Six is to stay current in movies and music and fashion styles. (I don't care if I am 103, I want my great-great grandkids to DEMAND to be around me 'cause I'm so much darn fun!!)

My list will continue to length with sincere intentions. Have I inspired you to start yours?

Wives and Mothers -- You can Relate!!

I have composed a list of all the talents those two roles embody. Try and imagine what a WANT AD would look like or how a RECIPE would read with all of these. (Now all I need to do is write a song --like Anita Renfroe's Mom Song-- that everyone could smile to!!)

*clock *refreshment stand *entertainment center *first aid station *office/school supply store *cleaning crew *concierge *personal assistant *scheduler *logistics director *handyman *holiday/party planner *cheerleader *volunteer/organizer *dictionary/thesaurus *chauffeur *storyteller *entertainer *nurse *disciplinarian *mentor *24/7 hug and kisser *personal shopper *editor *artist *maid *therapist *muse *teacher *school project coordinator *gardener *bank *chef/baker *calender *trash can *magnet (Here, Mom/Honey, hold this...) *seamstress *travel agent *handyman/toolbox *artist *photographer *banker *shoulder-to-cry-on *"sponge"/listener *mind reader *advocate *office manager *PARTNER to your husband *PARENT for your children

I Love Digitals!

Let's see:
I love my cell phone.
(I love to text on my cell phone.)
I love to use the DVR.
(I love the convenience of watching shows I recorded on the DVR.)
I love my wireless laptop.
(I love surfing the internet's vast resource base on the computer.)
I love to burn CD's.
(I love to listen to them at home and in the car.)

Life is good!!

Roots

Roots are what we are literally handed when we are delivered into this world. Our life threads join the ages-old tapestry that has been woven with all the adventures, successes, risks, tribulations, choices, honor, faith, humor and love from every single member of our family who has gone before. These rich histories are what we cling to. What we claim.

Every single inch of that ancient weaving are the tenacious anchors that hold our collective souls together. There is a vivid and exciting spirit that eternally whispers the message to our souls, "You belong". We can even dare to ask that witness of the past to share the wisdoms learned. In the silence the lessons will be taught. In a quiet moment just settled back and close your eyes....and listen....and feel. Gather all of the strength, charity, graciousness, integrity, intelligence offered. Then stand proudly on the shoulders of those who have led the way and add your colors and textures to the cloth.

My son is in the last remaining days of his teen years. Throughout his life we have instilled the concept of WHO he came from and the STRENGTH those folks exhibited in their lives that now has been passed on to him. The thought that his own decisions and zest and energy are being added to the family tapestry probably hasn't even occurred to him. But when he does grasp that singular truth, he will realize the he has become the next intregal layer for future generations. (....Just maybe he will accept what his wonderful mother constantly reminds him: "You have to be good no matter where you go because you never know who you might run into or who might see you." We ALL know that happens, don't we? And a secret NEVER stays a secret, does it?)

I'm Baa-aack!

First of all, I have really missed not writing my little blurp. I sincerely missed all of YOU. Our mother board got fried while I was in Chicago but now the new personally built computer is up and running. I am thrilled...except for that fact that our internet/phone bundle has not be up for a whole 24 hour period since last Wednesday (UGH!). We are experiencing a lot of "outages in your area" (a direct quote from the folks at TimeWarner who are quite nice whether they be in Wisconsin, Delaware or the Phillipines....Yes, I ask....and know me on a first name basis. NO JOKE.
So since I don't know how much time I have before it bleeps back off again, I just want to give you the best darn song that you are to IMMEDIATELY google and listen to NOW. Type in: anita renfro mom song. Click on the YouTube listing and be prepared to laugh, nod your head in agreement, hear your own self in her lyrics and have your email list at the ready to forward this onto. Weren't you listening??? What are you waiting for??!? GO!!

You Look Just Like....

I have heard that ALL my life. I look like someone's neighbor's daughter's friend or a niece or a girl in their high school class or the cashier at their grocery store or, well, you get the picture. People come up to me and start sincere conversations based on their observations. I've met alot of nice people that way and they have made me smile. And I have to say that I often remark that I have noticed two people who are unrelated and do not know each other carry a striking resemblance that is hard to ignore. Some say that each of us has a twin somewhere on the planet. I believe that could be a definite possibility. (One last note --Funny but I never hear, "Wow!! You look just like that Victoria Secret model. You know!!? The beautiful brunette in the TV commercial wearing the wings!!" Hmmmmm....)

Why Women Have Hips --a List

What would you add?

* to carry school books
* to carry laundry baskets
* to carry children
* to carry groceries
* to carry a child AND a bag of groceries
* to close drawers
* to close car doors
* to balance a lamp on the right one, while picking up a moving box to carry with your left arm
* to lug bags of mulch to the various flowerbeds around the yard
* to keep the back door open so that your hands are free to give hugs while scooting children & dog (...and perhaps the husband) inside the house

The First "Teaser" as Promised

The storyline for this book has been growing on paper since 2005. I have challenged myself to dedicate time everyday to get this story from brain to hard copy before year's end. Here is just a peak into the world that my heroine must navigate to insure the future of the life precious to her and those she loves:
"She slipped out of her tent soundless as a wood elf, making her way unobserved to the large outcropping of boulders jutting from the edge of the forest that encircled the right flank of the encampment. She perched on the highest vantage point bending her knees, gathering them close to her chest and resting her chin on top. She hugged her legs as she gazed up at the rich, black velvet heavenly ceiling spread above her. The twinkling stars seemed to multiply even as she watched. She felt totally insignificant. "You sparkle at me in the night just as the countless campfires burn around me. Why do we fight? For some the challenge comes from the desire to be rich -- merchants sponging off the need of warriors' preparations, solders hoping for royal favors in the victorious aftermath. Religion calls to some who are called to fulfill holy destinies. Others are simply loyal to the king and that is enough to offer their service. And, always, there are those who enjoy the sight of seeing another warrior slump to the ground at their feet -- broken, sightless, lifeless. Death is a constant all must acknowledge. May the soldiers chosen to be in its gathering path on the morrow be remembered as devoting their spirits and last noble efforts to finally destroying this subversive, festering evil which has slithered through our land fed by devouring, raw greed."

This Brain of Mine is a Very Busy Place!!!

I have to tell you -- I am tired. On top of everyday living (family, job, friends, unforeseeables like water in our basement last week, etc etc) I have a total of eight --that's right -- EIGHT books that live in my head wanting, DEMANDING to be brought to life in written form. And, believe me, I would LOVE to do just that because the story lines and characters which make up their worlds are overwhelming mine!! I'll be waiting on a customer and an idea for a subplot POPS up....or I am cruising up I-71 and BAM a conversation between two characters grabs my attention. Constantly I am scrambling for a pen to scribble notes on any piece of paper within reach. There are currently three children themed books based on the bedtime stories I created every night and four adult (no, not Mature rated) oriented and one HUGE richly layered, grand-scaled epic that is really pretty darned exciting. Today I just wanted to introduce you to my crazy mental world and tomorrow I will tease you with a small peak into the kingdom where choosing sides is inevitable, the inhabitants colorful, the adventure gripping and the risks worth taking for the future of all.

My Favorite Things #3 & #4: Chicago and Flying

Chicago and flying. Can't wait to experience both next week. Been to the town countless times. Each opportunity leads to new discoveries. The hum, the museums, the neighborhoods, the energy, the flow of this city lures me to return time and time again. LOVE LOVE LOVE IT.
The Art Institute is pure magic. A must stop for this girl EVERY time. Each gallery absorbs my senses. I saunter past priceless masterpieces, lingering to capture a glimpse of the artist's soul revealed through the clues their creation whispers. Many, many hours have witnessed my passion for the treasures housed within those walls.
I truly appreciate the engineering feat constructed from an elongated, metal tube with two long, nearly flat appendages and some massive whirly-gigs that easily transports me anywhere, saving hours on the road and creating personal catch-up space. Instead of having to pay attention to traffic, I get to relax and immerse myself in the last few issues of Smithsonian that have been collecting in a stack at home, waiting for my attention. But, best of all, I am the passenger hoping to claim a window seat during each opportunity for sky passage. I cannot tell you how I look forward to the immeasurable delight the view from that small , transparent square bestows on my spirit. The majestic canvas created by the incredible tapestry of colorful landscape patterns flowing beneath this observer is a visual experience freely given, sharing a rare panorama of the innate beauty of the greatest country on earth to any and all who accept the gift.

In High School....for Life

What is it about those four years that continues to intrude into our consciousness throughout the rest of our lives? They nudge us. They push their way in and bother us. They let us relive our triumphs and mull over the regrets. Next year our class should have a reunion. My first thought: What should I wear? (something cute, sassy, trendy, fun -- you know -- want to make the girls wish they look as good as me...and the guys wish they had dated me!!) Second: My hair? (Styled up or down? Make sure the blond highlights look just right.) Third: How's the figure? (hit the gym harder and eat less -- shrink that stomach. Going for the jealousy factor here.) Fourth: WHY am I even worried about these people I haven't seen in YEARS??!?
It is that age-old answer: BECAUSE. Because each and every one of us wants to make the **splash** we didn't make in high school. Because you want to make that guy you had a crush notice you now. Because you want to show them all to notice that you have changed. Because you want them to realize they should have selected you as Homecoming queen (not what's-her-name).
So WATCH OUT , classmates! Come next summer this chick is showin' up and lookin' good. (And, yep, you are gonna kick yourself cuz you SHOULD have asked me out!!)

Sounds of Silence

The title of that famous song by Simon and Garfunkle kept coming to mind last night when I went to bed. Numerous EXTREMELY LOUD, seemingly electronically-charged particles were zipping through my brain in some sort of cosmic orbital dance as soon as I lay down. The pitch-level was astounding. It took over 40 minutes (yes, I checked the clock periodically) for the "disturbance" to quiet enough for me to fall asleep. I kept thinking of what comparison I could use to convey accurately the very sound and intensity of this cacophony so that you could "feel" this phenomenon as I did.
First, being beside a fast speed train encountering the consistent whining buzz of the wheels as they were skimming across the track ties, shining silver body flashing past me came to mind. Then the humming of highly tuned car engines as a constant stream of vehicles whizzed on either side of an invisible me positioned between the lanes of 315 during morning rush hour seemed an equal analogy. And, concentrating more, the vision of someone standing on a runaway in front of huge, rotating propeller blades of an airliner, immersed in the thundering rush of the whirling winds struck me as appropriate as well.
This is not the first time I have heard this overwhelming, albeit annoying, raucous. My brain obviously was not ready to slumber when the rest of my body was and let me know it in no uncertain terms. Next time I'll read...or write a blog entry(!) to work off some of that bubbling, kinetic steam.

My Favorite Things #2: Chocolate

Anyone who knows me well can tell you about my passion for chocolate. Not only do I always have a supply of it near at hand but I have also discovered, through years of thorough and painstakingly detailed experimentation, how to savor this temptation with the most prolonged and savoring of techniques.
Let's say you have a Hershey Kiss to enjoy. Unwrap the foil and put the whole thing in your mouth. No, don't start munching!! Flip the Kiss upside down so that the flat bottom is clinging to the roof of your mouth. Apply some suction to keep it in place. Now take your tongue and rub it back and forth across the tip. Take your time. Don't be hasty. As you wear it down notice how you are experiencing a fabulous, full chocolate rush. Try it!!
The best kept chocolate secret I know is my MOST FAVORITE chocolate indulgence of all -- the TRIPLE MINT from Wittich's Candies in Circleville,OH (google: Wittich). These are, without question, one of the most incredible confections on the planet. Absolutely habit-forming. When you are nano-seconds from putting one of these in your mouth, I can tell you your taste buds will be screaming,"HURRY UP!! AAAAHHH!!". And when you bite down, every single nerve ending in your jaw will EXPLODE with pure joy. Trust me. Eating one of these (or two) is a life altering experience. Therein lies the birth of one of my favorite sayings..."It makes my teeth hurt". (Perfect for a blog title, don't ya think?!)

Why Don't People Walk in Straight Lines?

Has this phenomenon captured your attention as well? I notice this the most in the grocery store parking lot. I'll be in my car driving slowly down one of the lanes trying to find a parking place. Inevitably a shopper will take off with their cart and cuts across right in front of my bumper! Do they scoot straight across which would be shorter and quicker? Oh,no. The path is always at an angle so I sit there having to wait longer for them to reach their destination. Why is that? Or they have gotten out of their vehicle and are walking towards the entrance. Once again they shoot off from the parking area across the two-way lane of driving traffic at a 45 degree angle stopping traffic with absolutely no thought for their safety, totally in their own little world, assuming the drivers forced to sit there are happy (Mmm..don't think so) to wait for them to saunter at their own pace towards their goal.
**(I should have been a sociologist. Betcha I could have applied for a federal grant for thousands of dollars to study this very thing!!!!)

Illustrations "say" it all.

I have a passion for beautifully illustrated children's books. I found that when the pictures tell a story on their own, the written words are more lively, vibrant. After hundreds of trips to the library and combing the shelves in the local bookstores, I have built a family collection that brings smiles just anticipating what is tucked between the bindings. Go to your favorite community book spots and browse between the covers of some of my favorites. I hope you're as amazed as I was when I discovered these "eye treasures". Enjoy.
Tom Thumb - Richard Jesse Walton 1989/Harcourt Brace
The Mitten - Jan Brett (any of hers are wonderful!) 1990/GP Putnam's Sons
Sleeping Beauty - Kinuko Y. Craft 2002/Raincoast Books
Tuesday* - David Weisner 1991/Clarion Books
Ship of Dreams - Dean Morrissey Mill Pond Press/Abrams
Bear and Mrs Duck - Elizabeth Winthrop 1991/Holiday Books

*has very few words thus allows you and the little person opportunities for wonderful conversations

Tiger Woods and the 2008 US Open

Were you as frustrated by the commentators for this tournament led by Johnny Miller as I was?? I cannot tell you how many times I wanted to push that whole bunch right over the side of one of those oceanside cliffs. They were mouthy, condescending, critical, AND pretentious. HEY! Guess what guys?? Your obnoxious behavior was pathetic and spoke volumes of your seemingly obvious envy for one golfer in particular.
It is so easy for some to sit in front of a camera or stroll the course carrying a microphone. Who among us can seriously belittle the game of Tiger Woods. Seriously. This man is truly amazing. Talk about a role model for all ages.
Let's examine his pro's and con's to make sure that I am being impartial about this sports figure.
PRO'S: plays injured, focused, honed his talents, practices, determined, gives back to the community, good father, good husband, professional, diplomatic, well spoken, businessman, great sense of humor, respectful, loves his mother, misses his father, intelligent, gentleman, humble.... Ok, I'll stop now.
CON'S: wins too much?? usually wears black and red on the final day?? Hmmm....guess that's all I can think of....
(Pssst! What's on your list?)

My Favorite Things: #1 Attached Garages

Didn't expect that one, did ya? I consider that feature a pure luxury. We lived in two apartments and one house with detached garages before we moved to this address. I was so tired of being rain soaked, snowed on, just plain inconvenienced. (Plus I caught fingers between two panels as the door descended one morning....not pretty. Lots of pain. A stream of very unladylike language. A necessary trip to the hospital.)
But now in this house if I need a map from the glove compartment or to plop a can in the recycle bin or the stack of work I left on the seat to do that evening, I can just run out and grab it. And you really want to know the VERY BEST PART?!? I can be in my skivvies !! Total privacy. LOVE IT. Doesn't take much, does it, to make this girl happy?! What brings a smile to your face?
Can't wait to share more...."Tune in" tomorrow!

Heaven

I have two profoundly different mental pictures when I ponder what this incredible place must be like. Visualize this: A vast celestial space the color of the darkest sapphire. To your left is a large angel chorus poised, floating en masse singing praises that are so incredible beautiful in a language only those chosen admittance to this glorious realm comprehend. You must understand it is absolutely soundless in this place except for this reverent, hushed continuous music. To the right is Our Father. The pulsating brilliance of the blinding blend of white and yellow light surrounding Him is excruciating. All those who are in His presence must bow their heads and hold up their hands to cover their eyes from His intense glory. You can actually feel the heat generated from His radiant magnificence on your skin.
Then there is the second concept. Imagine a city newsroom. Say one in New York City. Tumultuous constant motion because of all the activity with folks running in and out, scurrying to follow all of the erupting events they need to cover 24/7. Energy exploding in this space as they scurry to investigate and report on this constant flow of information. Now change those human news staffers into angels. Can you hear their voices as they announce,"This just in!!! Drought in Spain!!!" or "Just received a prayer from Mrs. Smith in Dayton needing guidance in her relationship with her teenage daughter!!" or "Shooter in Texas!!" or "Prayer of thanks from the family in Cleveland for the successful kidney transplant!!" on and on and on. And the Lord sits at His desk watching all the commotion, calmly dispatching angels to thousands of locales around the globe, knowing every activity, thought, prayer will be taken care of. And yes, He occasionally rests His chin in His hand, rolling His eyes and shaking His head, thinking, "Humans......."

Endora, Cleopatra and the Duchess of Windsor

I know what you're thinking. What the heck do these three women have in common??? (Hear that lilting Sesame Street tune skimming through your mind...."which of these things belong together?"...) I would be more than happy to answer that question for you!

Eyeliner. Yep. Eyeliner. In my humble, but accurate, opinion one of the greatest inventions of all time. Why, you ask? Let me enlighten you. I know you'll agree.

First, let's examine Endora. Agnes Moorehead played that fabulous character. Her eyeliner was applied so that when she would raise her eyebrow while delivering an insulting comment to "Darwood" (in her dripping, condescending tone) that upswept line of black accentuated the disdain for her son-in-law in a totally nonverbal fashion. (C'mon. You know you've wanted to intimidate someone at some point in your life with just one look. Yea, you have.) Loved it.

Then there was Elizabeth Taylor. Whether she was playing the femme fatale in film or on the stage or whether she was marrying her sixth (or was it seventh??) husband, eyeliner was always her best friend. Picture her in her role as Cleopatra opposite Richard Burton. Sexy, sassy, feminine. I'm telling you the eyeliner is what put her over the top. Men fell at her feet. (And she has the jewels to prove it,too.) Right??!?

Last,but not least, is the Duchess. Now there was a determined woman. Check out photos of her and the Duke on their wedding day in 1937. Whoa. Must have been her personality that won him over. Not so much the face. But flash forward to the late 60's. Yep, she discovered the miracle of eyeliner and it was worth a double take. No longer did the camera lens capture a woman who needed a makeover. Sophisticated, sharp, lovely.

So there are my examples and I believe I have proven my theoretical hypothesis beyond a shadow of a doubt. Without eyeliner this world would be a very different place.

So Here We Are....

Hey! Thanks for joining me. Ever have that little voice inside yourself talk to you? I know you do. Do you listen? And if you listen, do you act on the message? Sometimes "yes" and sometimes "no" is what I'm sure just went through your mind.
Me, too. If it is a reminder of something-I-should-have-done kind of thing I either write it on my list, take care of the "whatever" immediately or just plain forget about it again. Like making a doctor appointment or cleaning the lovely build-up off the shower door or sending the RSVP card back for the next wedding.
But when the those thoughts that enter your consciousness about a friend you haven't spoken to in a while, the relative who lives out of town, an older neighbor who lives alone or someone recovering from an illness or perhaps the loss of a loved one I have found from past experience that you should NEVER wait to react. Those messages are sent and felt in your heart for a reason. Make that call , write that note, send that email. Putting in on the to-do list will cause regret later that you don't want to deal with. That inner urgency is telling you that now is the moment to act. It only takes 10 minutes. But it will make the difference in the rest of someone's life.

Good Morning, All!

Life is seen from different perspectives as one "moves" along their personal timeline on the planet. At 18 looking down that imagined continuum of years that stretch w-a-y ahead until it disappeared into the distant future, seemed to be so very long. I couldn't see the end thus there was no end. Did you have that forever feeling in your soul as well? I had youth on my side which enhances that boldness of eternity, infinity.
I now have slid along those years and as reality goes I have more behind me than in front of me. Some days that simple fact bugs the heck out of me. I feel too human. Too tied to this definite life. Too mad to think of not being here. Darn it!! I don't want to leave. You know, I have a lot to do and I am clinging to every day like a mad woman!
But then I shake myself and remember I am here to be me. Just me. Not a stone monument that is crafted to stand the test of hundreds of years. A permanent fixture. I am part of the tide of humanity that keeps our civilization evolving. Improving. Loving. Colorful. Surprising. And that tide changes with the different lives swept into its bold current.
Truth be told: I want to be here as long as the good Lord is willing. I love waking up every morning, right here. I have shared that with Him and with His blessing I will keep doing just that, blending my energy with all of yours....with the promise of tomorrows flowing towards that unseen future.

Here I am...

I have been planning this day for years...just didn't acknowledge the voice inside urging me to take the plunge until today. OK, so I'm a little slow. But I am a fast learner and will embrace this space to express myself without boring you. In fact I hope you will read my blog as an anticipated part of your every day.
I've been told that I should share my humor. Do stand-up in small clubs. That is a bit far fetched. Others have shared that my positive attitude is a welcomed part of their world. I appreciate the opinion that what I have to say has some merit --whether it be from a unique perspective or just plainspoken truth--and will share some with you regularly just for my personal sanity.
Please join me on my journey of experiences, common sense, life advice and blessings that are intregral threads weaving the tapestry of my life.
So are you ready to ride along with me? I can guarantee that we will share laughs, shake our heads at what life offers along the path, learn from others while giving to them in return, and when all is finished just be thankful for the gifts gleaned during the incredible experience.