I have heard, although not personally lived it, that there was a time in life that you could borrow a cup of sugar from your neighbor. This seems to be a reality on the "Real Housewives"...that is the real Real Housewives and not the varying reality shows which I feel pretty confident would be more likely to throw sugar or just lie about having any:) Saying that, do we really know our neighbors?
My husband grew up on a road in PA where many of the families still live and his friends have been friends for life. Most of the children have moved on but the parents and Grandparents have remained. This does seem to be a dying thing. Literally, once the older generation moves on the newer generation moves in. Doors locked, curtains drawn and the once social gathering around a neighborhood bonfire is gone.
My husband and I figured out yesterday that we do know our neighbors.....
We have Murreys Dad, Mysfa's Mom, Blankets Dad, Brownies Parents and Sugars parents.
So I guess I may not be able to borrow sugar but I can borrow something from my neighbors...puppy chow!
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Monday, May 24, 2010
Its hard to believe that the year is almost half way over! Is it really almost Memorial Day? I do love the summer. Something about white, sunshine and a pina colada just makes a day better. Throw in a childs laughter, a few waves and a good bikini wax and its pretty darn perfect. I'm not saying I am bikini ready yet but it is always good to be prepared:)
Every Memorial Day, Andy and I like to reflect on the story behind it. Certainly since living in DC we have embraced the opportunity to visit the history of this holiday in our nations capital with all of the monuments and museums. It is hard to believe that there are people who have forgotten what the history of Memorial Day is and only see it as a day off work or just the beginning of summer. So while brushing up on a bit of history today...I thought I would share....
(coutesy of http://www.usmemorialday.org/)
Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation's service. There are many stories as to its actual beginnings, with over two dozen cities and towns laying claim to being the birthplace of Memorial Day. There is also evidence that organized women's groups in the South were decorating graves before the end of the Civil War: a hymn published in 1867, "Kneel Where Our Loves are Sleeping" by Nella L. Sweet carried the dedication "To The Ladies of the South who are Decorating the Graves of the Confederate Dead" (Source: Duke University's Historic American Sheet Music, 1850-1920). While Waterloo N.Y. was officially declared the birthplace of Memorial Day by President Lyndon Johnson in May 1966, it's difficult to prove conclusively the origins of the day. It is more likely that it had many separate beginnings; each of those towns and every planned or spontaneous gathering of people to honor the war dead in the 1860's tapped into the general human need to honor our dead, each contributed honorably to the growing movement that culminated in Gen Logan giving his official proclamation in 1868. It is not important who was the very first, what is important is that Memorial Day was established. Memorial Day is not about division. It is about reconciliation; it is about coming together to honor those who gave their all.
General John A. Logan
Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, [LC-B8172- 6403 DLC (b&w film neg.)]
Memorial Day was officially proclaimed on 5 May 1868 by General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, in his General Order No. 11, and was first observed on 30 May 1868, when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. The first state to officially recognize the holiday was New York in 1873. By 1890 it was recognized by all of the northern states. The South refused to acknowledge the day, honoring their dead on separate days until after World War I (when the holiday changed from honoring just those who died fighting in the Civil War to honoring Americans who died fighting in any war). It is now celebrated in almost every State on the last Monday in May (passed by Congress with the National Holiday Act of 1971 (P.L. 90 - 363) to ensure a three day weekend for Federal holidays), though several southern states have an additional separate day for honoring the Confederate war dead: January 19 in Texas, April 26 in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Mississippi; May 10 in South Carolina; and June 3 (Jefferson Davis' birthday) in Louisiana and Tennessee.
In 1915, inspired by the poem "In Flanders Fields," Moina Michael replied with her own poem:
We cherish too, the Poppy red
That grows on fields where valor led,
It seems to signal to the skies
That blood of heroes never dies.
She then conceived of an idea to wear red poppies on Memorial day in honor of those who died serving the nation during war. She was the first to wear one, and sold poppies to her friends and co-workers with the money going to benefit servicemen in need. Later a Madam Guerin from France was visiting the United States and learned of this new custom started by Ms.Michael and when she returned to France, made artificial red poppies to raise money for war orphaned children and widowed women. This tradition spread to other countries. In 1921, the Franco-American Children's League sold poppies nationally to benefit war orphans of France and Belgium. The League disbanded a year later and Madam Guerin approached the VFW for help. Shortly before Memorial Day in 1922 the VFW became the first veterans' organization to nationally sell poppies. Two years later their "Buddy" Poppy program was selling artificial poppies made by disabled veterans. In 1948 the US Post Office honored Ms Michael for her role in founding the National Poppy movement by issuing a red 3 cent postage stamp with her likeness on it.
Traditional observance of Memorial day has diminished over the years. Many Americans nowadays have forgotten the meaning and traditions of Memorial Day. At many cemeteries, the graves of the fallen are increasingly ignored, neglected. Most people no longer remember the proper flag etiquette for the day. While there are towns and cities that still hold Memorial Day parades, many have not held a parade in decades. Some people think the day is for honoring any and all dead, and not just those fallen in service to our country.
There are a few notable exceptions. Since the late 50's on the Thursday before Memorial Day, the 1,200 soldiers of the 3d U.S. Infantry place small American flags at each of the more than 260,000 gravestones at Arlington National Cemetery. They then patrol 24 hours a day during the weekend to ensure that each flag remains standing. In 1951, the Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts of St. Louis began placing flags on the 150,000 graves at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery as an annual Good Turn, a practice that continues to this day. More recently, beginning in 1998, on the Saturday before the observed day for Memorial Day, the Boys Scouts and Girl Scouts place a candle at each of approximately 15,300 grave sites of soldiers buried at Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park on Marye's Heights (the Luminaria Program). And in 2004, Washington D.C. held its first Memorial Day parade in over 60 years.
To help re-educate and remind Americans of the true meaning of Memorial Day, the "National Moment of Remembrance" resolution was passed on Dec 2000 which asks that at 3 p.m. local time, for all Americans "To voluntarily and informally observe in their own way a Moment of remembrance and respect, pausing from whatever they are doing for a moment of silence or listening to 'Taps."
The Moment of Remembrance is a step in the right direction to returning the meaning back to the day. What is needed is a full return to the original day of observance. Set aside one day out of the year for the nation to get together to remember, reflect and honor those who have given their all in service to their country.
But what may be needed to return the solemn, and even sacred, spirit back to Memorial Day is for a return to its traditional day of observance. Many feel that when Congress made the day into a three-day weekend in with the National Holiday Act of 1971, it made it all the easier for people to be distracted from the spirit and meaning of the day. As the VFW stated in its 2002 Memorial Day address: "Changing the date merely to create three-day weekends has undermined the very meaning of the day. No doubt, this has contributed greatly to the general public's nonchalant observance of Memorial Day."
On January 19, 1999 Senator Inouye introduced bill S 189 to the Senate which proposes to restore the traditional day of observance of Memorial Day back to May 30th instead of "the last Monday in May". On April 19, 1999 Representative Gibbons introduced the bill to the House (H.R. 1474). The bills were referred the Committee on the Judiciary and the Committee on Government Reform
So with all that being said...if you have a moment this weekend please visit http://www.uso.org/ or if you see a service member, say thank you. As a military spouse, I can tell you it makes a difference.
Have a great holiday and God Bless America!
Every Memorial Day, Andy and I like to reflect on the story behind it. Certainly since living in DC we have embraced the opportunity to visit the history of this holiday in our nations capital with all of the monuments and museums. It is hard to believe that there are people who have forgotten what the history of Memorial Day is and only see it as a day off work or just the beginning of summer. So while brushing up on a bit of history today...I thought I would share....
(coutesy of http://www.usmemorialday.org/)
Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation's service. There are many stories as to its actual beginnings, with over two dozen cities and towns laying claim to being the birthplace of Memorial Day. There is also evidence that organized women's groups in the South were decorating graves before the end of the Civil War: a hymn published in 1867, "Kneel Where Our Loves are Sleeping" by Nella L. Sweet carried the dedication "To The Ladies of the South who are Decorating the Graves of the Confederate Dead" (Source: Duke University's Historic American Sheet Music, 1850-1920). While Waterloo N.Y. was officially declared the birthplace of Memorial Day by President Lyndon Johnson in May 1966, it's difficult to prove conclusively the origins of the day. It is more likely that it had many separate beginnings; each of those towns and every planned or spontaneous gathering of people to honor the war dead in the 1860's tapped into the general human need to honor our dead, each contributed honorably to the growing movement that culminated in Gen Logan giving his official proclamation in 1868. It is not important who was the very first, what is important is that Memorial Day was established. Memorial Day is not about division. It is about reconciliation; it is about coming together to honor those who gave their all.
General John A. Logan
Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, [LC-B8172- 6403 DLC (b&w film neg.)]
Memorial Day was officially proclaimed on 5 May 1868 by General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, in his General Order No. 11, and was first observed on 30 May 1868, when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. The first state to officially recognize the holiday was New York in 1873. By 1890 it was recognized by all of the northern states. The South refused to acknowledge the day, honoring their dead on separate days until after World War I (when the holiday changed from honoring just those who died fighting in the Civil War to honoring Americans who died fighting in any war). It is now celebrated in almost every State on the last Monday in May (passed by Congress with the National Holiday Act of 1971 (P.L. 90 - 363) to ensure a three day weekend for Federal holidays), though several southern states have an additional separate day for honoring the Confederate war dead: January 19 in Texas, April 26 in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Mississippi; May 10 in South Carolina; and June 3 (Jefferson Davis' birthday) in Louisiana and Tennessee.
In 1915, inspired by the poem "In Flanders Fields," Moina Michael replied with her own poem:
We cherish too, the Poppy red
That grows on fields where valor led,
It seems to signal to the skies
That blood of heroes never dies.
She then conceived of an idea to wear red poppies on Memorial day in honor of those who died serving the nation during war. She was the first to wear one, and sold poppies to her friends and co-workers with the money going to benefit servicemen in need. Later a Madam Guerin from France was visiting the United States and learned of this new custom started by Ms.Michael and when she returned to France, made artificial red poppies to raise money for war orphaned children and widowed women. This tradition spread to other countries. In 1921, the Franco-American Children's League sold poppies nationally to benefit war orphans of France and Belgium. The League disbanded a year later and Madam Guerin approached the VFW for help. Shortly before Memorial Day in 1922 the VFW became the first veterans' organization to nationally sell poppies. Two years later their "Buddy" Poppy program was selling artificial poppies made by disabled veterans. In 1948 the US Post Office honored Ms Michael for her role in founding the National Poppy movement by issuing a red 3 cent postage stamp with her likeness on it.
Traditional observance of Memorial day has diminished over the years. Many Americans nowadays have forgotten the meaning and traditions of Memorial Day. At many cemeteries, the graves of the fallen are increasingly ignored, neglected. Most people no longer remember the proper flag etiquette for the day. While there are towns and cities that still hold Memorial Day parades, many have not held a parade in decades. Some people think the day is for honoring any and all dead, and not just those fallen in service to our country.
There are a few notable exceptions. Since the late 50's on the Thursday before Memorial Day, the 1,200 soldiers of the 3d U.S. Infantry place small American flags at each of the more than 260,000 gravestones at Arlington National Cemetery. They then patrol 24 hours a day during the weekend to ensure that each flag remains standing. In 1951, the Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts of St. Louis began placing flags on the 150,000 graves at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery as an annual Good Turn, a practice that continues to this day. More recently, beginning in 1998, on the Saturday before the observed day for Memorial Day, the Boys Scouts and Girl Scouts place a candle at each of approximately 15,300 grave sites of soldiers buried at Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park on Marye's Heights (the Luminaria Program). And in 2004, Washington D.C. held its first Memorial Day parade in over 60 years.
To help re-educate and remind Americans of the true meaning of Memorial Day, the "National Moment of Remembrance" resolution was passed on Dec 2000 which asks that at 3 p.m. local time, for all Americans "To voluntarily and informally observe in their own way a Moment of remembrance and respect, pausing from whatever they are doing for a moment of silence or listening to 'Taps."
The Moment of Remembrance is a step in the right direction to returning the meaning back to the day. What is needed is a full return to the original day of observance. Set aside one day out of the year for the nation to get together to remember, reflect and honor those who have given their all in service to their country.
But what may be needed to return the solemn, and even sacred, spirit back to Memorial Day is for a return to its traditional day of observance. Many feel that when Congress made the day into a three-day weekend in with the National Holiday Act of 1971, it made it all the easier for people to be distracted from the spirit and meaning of the day. As the VFW stated in its 2002 Memorial Day address: "Changing the date merely to create three-day weekends has undermined the very meaning of the day. No doubt, this has contributed greatly to the general public's nonchalant observance of Memorial Day."
On January 19, 1999 Senator Inouye introduced bill S 189 to the Senate which proposes to restore the traditional day of observance of Memorial Day back to May 30th instead of "the last Monday in May". On April 19, 1999 Representative Gibbons introduced the bill to the House (H.R. 1474). The bills were referred the Committee on the Judiciary and the Committee on Government Reform
So with all that being said...if you have a moment this weekend please visit http://www.uso.org/ or if you see a service member, say thank you. As a military spouse, I can tell you it makes a difference.
Have a great holiday and God Bless America!
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Please click above to watch.
Its hard to believe it is May 11th already!!!! Seriously, time flies! I have also heard season's change but I am just not feeling it. Well I am, then I am not, then I am....This has been the basic weather pattern in DC. Monday, 40 degrees, Tuesday, 85 degrees, Wed 59 degrees....come on GIVE ME SPRING and not a cold! This is where it becomes painfully clear that I am a Florida gal. I enjoy hanging Christmas lights on my palm tree while wearing flip flops and a Santa hat.
My second favorite home is Tennessee. I lived there for many years while working at Shop at Home TV and Jewelry Television. As many know , I also am a country music artist/writer and my heart is breaking for so much of amazing history that found itself under water recently. The Ryman (the original Grand Ole Opry) was under water and the damage lost there and on 2nd and Broadway is huge to Nashville. Please keep everyone in Tennessee and Oklahoma in your prayers. My best friend, Amy Gregorio was there recently supporting the beautiful Michele in Mrs Tennessee America and said that it was pretty devastating.
Much love and be blessed today to be who you are and love the one's your with.
Childhood obesity is one of the most serious epidemics in the U.S., yet the unhealthy foods available to our kids and the lack of physical activity provided during the school day hinder their ability to make healthy choices to fight it.
We know this problem is urgent. But as the Senate continues to delay voting on the Child Nutrition Act, we need to make sure they know, too.
Take a moment to send a letter to your Senators to tell them how important it is that we improve the school environment for healthier kids.
The more people our Senators hear from, the likelier they are to feel pressure to push for a vote on this crucial act. By writing to them now, you can ask them to sign on to a letter going to the Senate leadership that calls for an immediate debate on this bipartisan bill.
With the growing threat of childhood obesity and related problems, we are long overdue for a re-vamp of our school nutrition programs. The Child Nutrition Act would provide much-needed support to strengthen the ways in which our schools help promote healthy lifestyle habits, such as proper nutrition and adequate daily physical activity. But we need to act now: the deadline for Senators to sign on to this letter to Senate leadership is May 19.
Tell your Senators to take this first step toward ensuring a healthy future for our kids today.
Thank you for your time---together we can make sure this important act gets passed.
Monday, May 10, 2010
The weather fairy was with us for the picnic on Saturday. The Quantico Rod and Gun Club hosted the third annual Wounded Veterans picnic on 8 may 2010 from 11 to 5PM. The turnout was wonderful and it was great to meet so many incredible people. The Armed Forces Foundation was present along with many grass roots organizations to show support for our wounded veteran's and active duty personal.
The war in Afghanistan continues and my sister is deploying soon in what we hope to be the last set of troops going into Iraq.
I was able to meet Congressman Rob Wittman and many others on Saturday. He truly was a nice man and it was great to see the support he was providing to our military. I also met this young many name Timothy. He was 7 and such an inspiration and a true hero also.
Thank you to all who attended and thank you to the Armed Forces Foundation and the Quantico Gun and Rod club for making it a truly spectacular event.
Wednesday, May 05, 2010
Anyone who knows me, knows I am like a book. Over sensitive and broken at the binder but a good read if you like slightly broken:) Its been one of those weeks and it is only Wednesday! My weekend was my Mother in law and Father in law. My Father in law is a saint. My Mother in law...well there is a reason why there are stigmas. Monster in law ring a bell? Yes, she can read this and hate me more but I doubt that. She has FULLY shared her feelings with me. I will just say this, for someone who actually said to me...and I quote, "I don't want to know anything about your family" and they are deceased...she could not fill their shoes on their worst day. Now I must stop....but I am upset. This weekend more drama.....
So this brings me to my aggression. Spring cleaning. I have torn through things, planted flowers, folded, thrown out and not slept. This is all due to my new vegan diet. Ugh...the clarity! I was cleaning Carters room and found numerous dead flies behind furniture. These are the annoying creatures that live only 24 hours yet we strive to kill them upon initial greeting. I have never seen a baby fly....I realize I should have paid more attention in class to all of the annoyances in life but failed in this aspect of my educational development.
My week....Mother in law and dead flies....I have had better weeks. Isn't this Cinco de Mayo?
Cheers!
So this brings me to my aggression. Spring cleaning. I have torn through things, planted flowers, folded, thrown out and not slept. This is all due to my new vegan diet. Ugh...the clarity! I was cleaning Carters room and found numerous dead flies behind furniture. These are the annoying creatures that live only 24 hours yet we strive to kill them upon initial greeting. I have never seen a baby fly....I realize I should have paid more attention in class to all of the annoyances in life but failed in this aspect of my educational development.
My week....Mother in law and dead flies....I have had better weeks. Isn't this Cinco de Mayo?
Cheers!
Tuesday, May 04, 2010
The Quantico Rod and Gun Club will host the third annual Wounded Veterans picnic on 8 may 2010 from 11 to 5PM.
Congressman Wittman will attend along with several other dignitaries.
Several Beauty Queens a live band and plenty of food to go around.
Fishing lounging and good old fashioned fun.
There will be over 300 military present.
We hope to see you there!
Dear Friend --
You and I have the chance to be part of something really special. It's for our troops and their moms -- and it's for our troops who are moms.
With Mother's Day fast approaching, the USO is making sure this year there are More Minutes for Mom.
http://www.uso.org/
Through this great effort, we can help our troops who are separated from their families make more phone calls home. We can make sure that no matter the distance, all our brave service men and women can connect with their families this Mother's Day.
So please donate now to support the More Minutes for Mom campaign. Your $15 donation can provide 300 minutes of talk time from Afghanistan.
I can only imagine how hard it is knowing your son or daughter is in harm's way halfway around the world.
And just think what it's like for a young mother serving with her unit in Afghanistan or Iraq and knowing that Mother's Day hug from her child will have to wait until next year.
We've got to do everything we can to help troops and their families connect on and around Mother's Day.
Donate now to support the More Minutes for Mom campaign. Your $15 donation can provide 300 minutes of talk time from Afghanistan.
I'm so proud to be a part of this special USO effort. I know you'll do everything you can to help.
http://www.uso.org/
Saturday, April 24, 2010
The walk for the March of Dimes had a great turnout, Especially since it was just for Rockville, MD and this same walk is/was going on all over the country. The "Linz" team aka...TEAM ROCKY:)) was able to raise $1650.00. I am very excited for that and we well exceeded our goal from last year.
Its been a journey over the last year and a half and April was Carter's due date although he came in January at 23.4 weeks. He is 20 lbs this week and although he just bounced back from a hospital stay and pneumonia last week, had a good time at the walk and made it through while taking a few short cat naps along the way. Smiles included, of course.
This week also brought with it some concern. First, I just want to say that as a Mom and this is my non-medical opinion, I think Carter will continue to prove everyone wrong. Carter was assessed this week in the High Risk Clinic. Now this is a group of 5-6 therapist and doctors. This setting does not involve blood test, xrays or any other invasive type of assessment but is purely done on a physical ability assessment with toys, cognitive development and physical strength. (rolling, sitting, talking...etc) They came to the conclusion that Carter "may" have Cerebral Palsy. In my mind, heart and soul, I think Carter just got over pneumonia, does things in Carter time and its too early to tell. Technically he is only 12 months corrected and really it is not until 18-24 months that a CP diagnosis can be made with any certainty. CP is also VERY broad.
So I am asking for continued prayer for Carter. He is so amazing and lifts me daily. I know in my heart, God has special plans for Carter and maybe his biggest lesson is that we should all believe. Even if all of his test confirmed this, it will not change the fact that Carter is so special and a miracle.
Please keep Carter in your daily prayers!
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
I remember when I was a little girl, I loved the wind. I used to stand on our picnic table in the back yard in Georgia and jump off. I thought I was "Wonderwomen". Little did I know that those bangles would become such a fashion statement in time...ha! I thought they just stopped bullets:)
Well I am not super, wonder or any adjective but I am me. With that comes a whole set of what am I? I think this is something we all search for everyday of our lives. I love shoes, this I am certain of. Number one reason...regardless of what time of month or if I have eaten two much of anything...they always fit and are faithful.They get me places, makes me feel special and allow me to never feel bloated. Gosh, I REALLY do love shoes!!!!
So this brings me back to my great search. Who am I? This is a question as parents we often ask ourselves as we should always lead by example. I hope I do for Carter daily.
As stated in the country music world last year, "I got lost in this big ole world and forgot who I am".
Country and shoes, they both just fit. Gotta love that~
Well I am not super, wonder or any adjective but I am me. With that comes a whole set of what am I? I think this is something we all search for everyday of our lives. I love shoes, this I am certain of. Number one reason...regardless of what time of month or if I have eaten two much of anything...they always fit and are faithful.They get me places, makes me feel special and allow me to never feel bloated. Gosh, I REALLY do love shoes!!!!
So this brings me back to my great search. Who am I? This is a question as parents we often ask ourselves as we should always lead by example. I hope I do for Carter daily.
As stated in the country music world last year, "I got lost in this big ole world and forgot who I am".
Country and shoes, they both just fit. Gotta love that~
Monday, April 12, 2010
Everyday I am amazed at people. I have learned that if you smile at a stranger, 99% of them will smile back. I have also learned that if you smile at someone who dislikes you, they will smile back too. It is unfortunate that under some smiles are thoughts. Not all good and not with good intention.
I find myself in a place today that I am once again stunned. I am stunned how someone can say something to a group of teens about someone that they really shouldn't. I am extremely protective when it comes to children and teens and I just don't get it. As adults and parents, we have an obligation to lead by example.
As parents, we are not rockstars, beauty queens, award winning authors or superstars...we are parents and that is and should be our first priority. Saying that, if someone has an issue with someone...as a parent or about their body parts...one should talk to the adult/parent and not a group of teens.
Bullying happens at all ages. Lead by example. No one is better than anyone in life. God is the higher power and not the individual.
I find myself in a place today that I am once again stunned. I am stunned how someone can say something to a group of teens about someone that they really shouldn't. I am extremely protective when it comes to children and teens and I just don't get it. As adults and parents, we have an obligation to lead by example.
As parents, we are not rockstars, beauty queens, award winning authors or superstars...we are parents and that is and should be our first priority. Saying that, if someone has an issue with someone...as a parent or about their body parts...one should talk to the adult/parent and not a group of teens.
Bullying happens at all ages. Lead by example. No one is better than anyone in life. God is the higher power and not the individual.
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Are we all living with Angela Landsbury?
One of our favorite shows is "Castle". As I was watching with my husband I was reminded that we all have a little bit of our Grandparents or parents in us with , "Murder, She wrote". There is nothing better than a who done it! I was in a murder mystery dinner theater for a show called, "Let's Kill the Boss". It ran for about a year. I was the choreographer also but I have to admit there weren't great dance numbers in it but pretty good one's:))) I was "Una"...the mistress. Not sure why but I was always typecast as the mystress, prostitute or soap type actress. I once had an agent tell me that I would never do well in commercials because I didn't look like I would feed my dog. Nice, huh!!!!! This is why you need to smile and smile big always!
So I think we all have a little Landsbury in us. We love mystery, we love to solve and most of all we love the fear of the unknown without any great "real" drama behind it. Danielle Steele, Star Wars, James Patterson...all great authors/sequels and well read in our family...oh and Murder She Wrote! Perhaps its because we always get to figure out good from evil. Pulitzer prize no, fun yes...read on.
One of our favorite shows is "Castle". As I was watching with my husband I was reminded that we all have a little bit of our Grandparents or parents in us with , "Murder, She wrote". There is nothing better than a who done it! I was in a murder mystery dinner theater for a show called, "Let's Kill the Boss". It ran for about a year. I was the choreographer also but I have to admit there weren't great dance numbers in it but pretty good one's:))) I was "Una"...the mistress. Not sure why but I was always typecast as the mystress, prostitute or soap type actress. I once had an agent tell me that I would never do well in commercials because I didn't look like I would feed my dog. Nice, huh!!!!! This is why you need to smile and smile big always!
So I think we all have a little Landsbury in us. We love mystery, we love to solve and most of all we love the fear of the unknown without any great "real" drama behind it. Danielle Steele, Star Wars, James Patterson...all great authors/sequels and well read in our family...oh and Murder She Wrote! Perhaps its because we always get to figure out good from evil. Pulitzer prize no, fun yes...read on.
Tuesday, April 06, 2010
Do you ever feel like you just aged 20 years in two? Today is one of those days that the only word that comes to mind is exhaustion. Andy has been gone on military duty for a while so I was managing the house, appointments and furries. This I am good at. The "list". Wake up...check....walk dogs...check...Carters appts check.....shower...check minus:) I function with the internal and external list. Then the hubby comes back and bamm...the list explodes!!!! Todays list....wake up, get Carter up and dressed, make Andy breakfast (yes I do that:), get taxes done, run errands...etc...etc...etc....so I am just tired which is ok. In fact it is great.
In a life that we function I think sometimes we forget to live, to love, to explore and most of all to forgive. A dear friend/family member of mine lost his Father. So today when I was feeling sorry for myself for my "list", I sat back and realized how amazing life is and the people in it. I thought to myself how short life is and how mad at myself I was for no reaching out more to those I love to let them know they are never alone and how special they are.
To Joey, I know today and tomorrow will be tough. Your Father knew you were an incredible son. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Big hug to your Mom....we love you!
To the angels from above
Guard us with your special love
As we walk to unknown paths
knowing it will never last
Find a way, to let us see
For the love you see in me....
This is why, God gives us wings...to fly
In a life that we function I think sometimes we forget to live, to love, to explore and most of all to forgive. A dear friend/family member of mine lost his Father. So today when I was feeling sorry for myself for my "list", I sat back and realized how amazing life is and the people in it. I thought to myself how short life is and how mad at myself I was for no reaching out more to those I love to let them know they are never alone and how special they are.
To Joey, I know today and tomorrow will be tough. Your Father knew you were an incredible son. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Big hug to your Mom....we love you!
To the angels from above
Guard us with your special love
As we walk to unknown paths
knowing it will never last
Find a way, to let us see
For the love you see in me....
This is why, God gives us wings...to fly
Friday, March 26, 2010
Life is interesting. It definitely keeps you on your toes. It is hard to believe that tomorrow is my Birthday. Really, another one???? Time flies. I know we all hear that but it really does. One day 18 with the world in front of you then suddenly poof…30ish with the wonder of what you left behind.
I have had a good couple of weeks. I visited the American Heart Association office in DC and have been working on an educational program with the a Adventist Hospital chain in hopes of educating women on the signs, symptoms and realization that heart disease effects women of all ages and all weights. Through AHA my spot aired on our local ABC affiliate and I received a positive response. Many had no idea that I had had a heart attack and stent placed. We all hear life is short but until the realization that it really is hits you I think we all think, “naw, it will never happen to me.” In a land of super Moms, Teens and women in general we are all trying to prove something. The unfortunate thing is we can and often do loose ourselves in the process.
Andy, Carter and I also attended the PA International pageants. Scott and Jodi Cessna are amazing people and put on a great pageant. Thank you to the Competitive Image for providing me with the perfect dress for the event. They have the most amazing clothes and always make me feel like a queen or DIVA ))) I spend my life staring at monitors so it felt really good to shower and feel pretty! My hubby appreciated it also! We had a great time in Altoona, PA with the family and a wonderful and inspiring friend. It was also great to see so many visiting “queens” or as I like to call many of them, friends. Go Heidi Scheer for Ohio…sorry just had to put in a plug))))
I love the International system and that it promotes community service and platform (as a Mrs, that is 50% of your score). Congratulations to all the new queens in the Teen/Miss/Mrs PA International program. You will love nationals and the family it gives you and the amazing lesson you learn that if you walk in someone elses shoes, you will learn and grow. This is why I feel platform is so important. Everyone has a story. Imagine if our Grandparent wrote a book. This is where history begins!
This weekend, well, it is my Birthday. Without going into too much detail. This week was hard but Carter is doing well and I survived. My pending b-day….I will be sharing it with great friends and Carter. Andy is on Military duty((((
My walk for the March of Dimes is April 24th and I am so close to my goal. If you can provide support, thank you!!!! As a Mother of a former 23 weeker, I can attest that the March of Dimes makes a difference…everyday. It is a child’s life, so lets start it the right way.
Off to hit the treadmill AGAIN!!! Seriously, it may be gravity, it may be age, it may just be exhaustion but what is up with that dang treadmill. Its always trying to kick my butt!
I have had a good couple of weeks. I visited the American Heart Association office in DC and have been working on an educational program with the a Adventist Hospital chain in hopes of educating women on the signs, symptoms and realization that heart disease effects women of all ages and all weights. Through AHA my spot aired on our local ABC affiliate and I received a positive response. Many had no idea that I had had a heart attack and stent placed. We all hear life is short but until the realization that it really is hits you I think we all think, “naw, it will never happen to me.” In a land of super Moms, Teens and women in general we are all trying to prove something. The unfortunate thing is we can and often do loose ourselves in the process.
Andy, Carter and I also attended the PA International pageants. Scott and Jodi Cessna are amazing people and put on a great pageant. Thank you to the Competitive Image for providing me with the perfect dress for the event. They have the most amazing clothes and always make me feel like a queen or DIVA ))) I spend my life staring at monitors so it felt really good to shower and feel pretty! My hubby appreciated it also! We had a great time in Altoona, PA with the family and a wonderful and inspiring friend. It was also great to see so many visiting “queens” or as I like to call many of them, friends. Go Heidi Scheer for Ohio…sorry just had to put in a plug))))
I love the International system and that it promotes community service and platform (as a Mrs, that is 50% of your score). Congratulations to all the new queens in the Teen/Miss/Mrs PA International program. You will love nationals and the family it gives you and the amazing lesson you learn that if you walk in someone elses shoes, you will learn and grow. This is why I feel platform is so important. Everyone has a story. Imagine if our Grandparent wrote a book. This is where history begins!
This weekend, well, it is my Birthday. Without going into too much detail. This week was hard but Carter is doing well and I survived. My pending b-day….I will be sharing it with great friends and Carter. Andy is on Military duty((((
My walk for the March of Dimes is April 24th and I am so close to my goal. If you can provide support, thank you!!!! As a Mother of a former 23 weeker, I can attest that the March of Dimes makes a difference…everyday. It is a child’s life, so lets start it the right way.
Off to hit the treadmill AGAIN!!! Seriously, it may be gravity, it may be age, it may just be exhaustion but what is up with that dang treadmill. Its always trying to kick my butt!
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
The day is starting to show the signs of spring. The remaining snow is cooling down the air as it melts but at least the temperature is in the 60's. Cloudy though in preparation of the rainy days to follow. At least we did have a full day of sunshine. Maybe it is the clouds or the pending rain but I starting thinking about everything. For me, this is not always a good thing:) I remember last year when I competed in Maryland for Mrs Maryland International and again over the summer at Mrs International. There were so many eyes and frank statements made in judgement on how I could do that when my son had been in the hospital for 165 days and still was struggling with many health issues. Carter was by my side but that didn't matter to some.There is something to the statement that if you sit down for too long you may not be able to get up. For me, it was a respite in a time of great struggle and how I survived outside of the tears I shed daily.
There was a child that passed when Carter was in the NICU that was tracking as Carter was and born as early. I was pretty horrified when the nurse commented that maybe it was for the best. I can't ever imagine that was the best for anyone and certainly not his parents. What this year and the 9 and 6 years prior since loosing my Mother and Father have taught me is that strength is found in God, in love and most importantly your family. I think my heart attack in January and surgery just made me realize that life is so very precious and it is important to always fight for those you love and advocate for them and their causes. When I look back I guess I could feel sorry for myself and I do at times, because I am human...but that can't be the state of which I live daily. Carter needs me and I need him. Last week after his surgery I think what hurt the most was that it took two days to get a smile from him. He gives LOTS of smiles daily so I was really in need of one. When he smiled I knew everything would be just fine.
Its important to not sit down for too long. This life waits for no one. Time moves ahead as I write but doesn't it always? It never stops. It is already two seconds past my last word. Time flies....ehhhhh....
There was a child that passed when Carter was in the NICU that was tracking as Carter was and born as early. I was pretty horrified when the nurse commented that maybe it was for the best. I can't ever imagine that was the best for anyone and certainly not his parents. What this year and the 9 and 6 years prior since loosing my Mother and Father have taught me is that strength is found in God, in love and most importantly your family. I think my heart attack in January and surgery just made me realize that life is so very precious and it is important to always fight for those you love and advocate for them and their causes. When I look back I guess I could feel sorry for myself and I do at times, because I am human...but that can't be the state of which I live daily. Carter needs me and I need him. Last week after his surgery I think what hurt the most was that it took two days to get a smile from him. He gives LOTS of smiles daily so I was really in need of one. When he smiled I knew everything would be just fine.
Its important to not sit down for too long. This life waits for no one. Time moves ahead as I write but doesn't it always? It never stops. It is already two seconds past my last word. Time flies....ehhhhh....
Monday, March 08, 2010
Last night I met the most amazing young man in the PEDS ward. He just came up from the PICU and turned 15.His name is Ashton Ebert and has a blog on Caring Bridge. I found him so inspiring. I remember earlier in the day I saw him walking with his Mother. These are the true heros to me. Our children. All children.
Carter was discharged today from the hospital. It is so good to be home. The best part is all of the giggles I have gotten. That and I actually get a real shower and bed. Carter is such a trooper and I am certain will miss his daily flirts with the hospital staff. However, there is no better feeling than when the whole family is back together.
How does anyone ever get better in the hospital? You can never sleep?
Ahh...good to be home....early to bed for me!
Carter was discharged today from the hospital. It is so good to be home. The best part is all of the giggles I have gotten. That and I actually get a real shower and bed. Carter is such a trooper and I am certain will miss his daily flirts with the hospital staff. However, there is no better feeling than when the whole family is back together.
How does anyone ever get better in the hospital? You can never sleep?
Ahh...good to be home....early to bed for me!
Wednesday, March 03, 2010
I am sitting in the surgical waiting room at Walter Reed with so many thoughts that are going through my mind. We have been here almost a week and at some point it all just becomes a blur. I am happy that Carter seems to be ok with the change of scenary although I am sure he would like to once again feel the comfort of a full tummy. They stopped his feeds last Saturday in preparation for surgery and unfortunately due to complications, his surgery was moved until today. This gave his lungs time to be in the best shape possible and for that reason alone I am ok with it. He was smiling this morning but of course this was before they came in to attempt to draw blood and put drops in his eyes. (While Carter is sedated they are also going to take a look at his eyes.) The Nissen I have been told takes about 3 1/2 hours. Oh yeah...so I am sitting here worried and waiting.
I am carrying around Carters glow worm which is randomly going off no doubt making others wonder if I don't belong on another floor. We went to get coffee and a guy saw me kiss it and he winked at me. Yes, I looked a bit odd but I do find comfort in having it close to me as it is always close to Carter. Keep in mind I also travel with Halo, my first born pups (my favorite but don't tell Jack:), favorite doggie toy. Maybe I do need therapy. My husband often kids me that I probably shouldn't take her "favorite" toy. What we Mothers do because we love our little one's so much!
I do have to wonder why waiting rooms are always so cold! The temperature gauge is of course guarded by the locked box so I have no chance of warming up what is a very chilly situation. There are a lot of people "waiting" so the room is filled with an awkward silence and the anticipation of a phone call or visit from a doctor carrying really good news. Its an odd feeling. Reminds me of flying. Once you are up in the air, you have no control. It is all in the hands of God.
So I am praying. Praying for our little plane to soar and land safely back home. May God watch over Carter, protect him and make him feel safe during the surgery. Mommy prays for a safe landing with no turbulance.
I am carrying around Carters glow worm which is randomly going off no doubt making others wonder if I don't belong on another floor. We went to get coffee and a guy saw me kiss it and he winked at me. Yes, I looked a bit odd but I do find comfort in having it close to me as it is always close to Carter. Keep in mind I also travel with Halo, my first born pups (my favorite but don't tell Jack:), favorite doggie toy. Maybe I do need therapy. My husband often kids me that I probably shouldn't take her "favorite" toy. What we Mothers do because we love our little one's so much!
I do have to wonder why waiting rooms are always so cold! The temperature gauge is of course guarded by the locked box so I have no chance of warming up what is a very chilly situation. There are a lot of people "waiting" so the room is filled with an awkward silence and the anticipation of a phone call or visit from a doctor carrying really good news. Its an odd feeling. Reminds me of flying. Once you are up in the air, you have no control. It is all in the hands of God.
So I am praying. Praying for our little plane to soar and land safely back home. May God watch over Carter, protect him and make him feel safe during the surgery. Mommy prays for a safe landing with no turbulance.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Last Friday Carter had a sedated CT scan of his lungs and head. His head showed that his ventricles have stabilized which is VERY good news. Unfortunately, his lungs appear to have worsened. This is his first CT as in the past it was all based on xrays and how he was doing clinically. We new he had "pulmonary blebs". The CT revealed a total of 6 of them. Believe it or not but this is not the cause of the recent lung issues. Carter has chronic aspiration which has resulted in significant damage to his lungs. We were told that they really have not seen a baby with lungs this bad before and this was an assessment of three pulmonologist. We have been given similiar information in the past when he was in the NICU but this was also when Carter clinically was showing signs of respiratory distress. Currently except for his increased need of oxygen, he is a VERY happy baby and looks good.
The overall assessment is that Carter is currently functioning on about 25% of his lung capacity. We have to stop the apiration of Carter or he has very strong possibilty of going into respiratory failure. They are doing a Nissen Fundoplication on Monday to hopefully stop the constant reflux . He will be admitted on Friday.
I pray he is quick to come off the vent as this is our biggest concern. I know in my heart he will. He is so amazing and you don't get much better than Carter. He has 6 teeth and the best smile ever. My
Rocky.
I understand people have it worse and we feel so blessed for all the love and support we continue to receive. Nobody lives a life free of ailments either in themselves or a loved one. I am reminded of that everyday.
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