tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-68669933814874411832024-03-13T01:46:28.524-04:00A Dose of PositivityPamela Bousquethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933486351538669537noreply@blogger.comBlogger50125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6866993381487441183.post-22747366345080500802013-10-19T17:27:00.002-04:002013-10-19T17:27:10.697-04:00"Candy Corn, Wax Lips, and Pixie-Sticks" (original publish date: Oct. 31, 2009)<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6M8wTPYDR_Mzt3oUV8M38CHIhnErwoQZaJaoZFzsnE6I8tAnZsYOGNcWX775TrmEjR0WmOau_tWYRlVAWeivXg1bbEyjE7Qqe8bCoCNopjCZzJZbwe8_ZUTrrmcF9Vpk_n4TBqBrxGwpI/s1600-h/halloween4.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398917963982811554" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6M8wTPYDR_Mzt3oUV8M38CHIhnErwoQZaJaoZFzsnE6I8tAnZsYOGNcWX775TrmEjR0WmOau_tWYRlVAWeivXg1bbEyjE7Qqe8bCoCNopjCZzJZbwe8_ZUTrrmcF9Vpk_n4TBqBrxGwpI/s320/halloween4.jpg" style="float: right; height: 98px; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; width: 128px;" /></a>Ah, the memories: Trick-Or-Treating in the neighborhoods we grew up in; costumes we bought - or costumes we made (usually at the last minute!); parties and Fall festivals; visiting our first "haunted" house; begging our moms to buy <em></em>our<em></em> favorite candy to hand out to our friends, but finding out later that the begging didn't do any good - our parents always bought <em>their</em> favorite!</div>
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What I find extremely funny is that now <strong></strong><u>I'm<strong></strong></u> doing the same thing! This morning while doing a little grocery-shopping, I found myself in the just-for-Halloween-candy-aisle, searching through what was <u>left</u> of all the sugar-coated, chocolate-coated, individually wrapped, bags of goodies. Of course I wasn't alone, and peeking out of the corner of my eye I happened to notice that the other three or four adults standing in that section were all middle-aged (like me). Surprised that none of us standing there had any kids roaming about, I could only assume that those parents of younger children had already prepared and purchased their treats and were (wisely) at home making their final preparations for an evening of fun with their families.</div>
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Did you ever notice how just standing in a candy aisle, with your mouth watering over all those sweet, gooey, delicious selections could bring back a host of childhood memories? I still enjoy sitting around with friends and family comparing the favorites we loved as kids: fake candy cigarettes (which our mother's abhorred), Pixie-Sticks, wax soda-bottles, wax lips, wax teeth, the (nasty) gum that came with the baseball cards, Zotz, Pop-Rocks, various bubble-gum and candy-bars...I'm sure we can all add to the list! It's really no coincidence when you think about it, how so many of our fondest memories (especially those of our childhood) contain a thought or two centering around <em>candy</em>. Whether it's digging through the trick-or-treat bags, pulling out our favorites and hiding them for later so that no-one else (or the kids!) can swipe it, or just having enough change in our pocket for that favorite candy-bar in the check-out line, candy holds a very special place in every one's heart.</div>
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A dentist's worst night-mare and a mother's last resort for bribery, a small piece of candy or chocolate can be an intense instrument of persuasion or "drug" (if you will). Depending on your "flavor" of choice, that first bite can totally transform a person's current state of mind. Taste and smell are amazingly powerful senses - when triggered, those senses have the ability to take us back in time, completely change our mood, even emote feelings of <em>pure pleasure!</em></div>
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Sometimes those cravings for candy or chocolate are just that - our taste buds are screaming for something sweet, something to satisfy a hunger, or even cure a "bad taste" left over from perhaps a too-spicy meal. Personally I find that I derive the <em></em>most<em></em> from chocolate <em></em>when eating it <em>only</em> for the sheer pleasure of it!</div>
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There's an old advertisement for Tootsie-Roll Pops that I've disagreed with my husband over for years....remember that old owl who was always wondering "how many licks does it take to get to the center of a Tootsie-Roll Pop?" <strong></strong>I<strong></strong> believe that old owl had it <u>completely</u> wrong. Commercial after commercial, that owl could NEVER wait and just savor that lollipop (which my crunch-happy hubby is in total agreement with - he can't even suck on a mint or cough drop properly!) Me - I believe it's all about the enjoyment...with everything us working moms tend to be involved in these days, why do you think we "crave" chocolate so much? (Gentlemen, it DOESN'T always have to do with hormones!)</div>
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Simple pleasures....some might say "guilty" pleasures, but a <em></em><u>pleasure<em></em></u> all the same. The next time you indulge in your favorite sweet - be it a form of chocolate, gum-drop, jelly-bean, taffy or gum - try savoring that first taste. Let it linger on your tongue...for just a moment. Close your eyes and let your senses take over. It's really only seconds out of your day, but those few seconds can immediately transport you elsewhere and perhaps even ease a weary mind and body. A bit of Joy from one little piece of candy...no wonder these kids are so excited at my door tonight...they've already got BAGS full of the stuff!</div>
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There goes the doorbell again - <em></em>have a treat<em></em> - and <strong>HAPPY HALLOWEEN</strong>!!!<br />
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<em>Pay it forward - spread a smile!</em><br />
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<em>(photo courtesy of Google images.)</em></div>
Pamela Bousquethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933486351538669537noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6866993381487441183.post-68361217352630319792013-09-27T10:34:00.003-04:002013-09-27T10:40:21.862-04:00PAY IT FORWARD FRIDAY:<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf4MqLd-f7TZsBT_yK9H1W0BvRBfpYVkkpx7eci-qj6K4DqedDrB61dcKkE8U7j8vZupW7RfrNOnOKUVXpD_XnZg_lgHLSKxURahB2cGsqd61fbgkvELt6rX_zRGz1CqfooSYzFVfFddmQ/s1600/smileyA.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf4MqLd-f7TZsBT_yK9H1W0BvRBfpYVkkpx7eci-qj6K4DqedDrB61dcKkE8U7j8vZupW7RfrNOnOKUVXpD_XnZg_lgHLSKxURahB2cGsqd61fbgkvELt6rX_zRGz1CqfooSYzFVfFddmQ/s1600/smileyA.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size: large;">YEAH, I KNOW .... it's been a while... BUT SO WHAT????</span></strong></div>
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What a <em>better </em>way to get back into the writing habit than to remind us all that <strong>PAYING IT FORWARD</strong> in some small way - on a regular basis - can do so much for so many?</div>
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I've personally been through so, <em>so </em>much over the last (almost) two years... and honestly, it is way too much to write about and list here today. Once again, I've let the ups and downs of life personally keep me from doing one of the things I dearly love ... putting pen to paper (or, in this case - <em>fingers to keyboard!) </em>Trust me, if I tried writing about all of it here today, it would be a pitiful listing of grievances, and come off appearing as a "woe is me" kind of dialogue - and that is <em>not </em>what I like to convey! I can say that we have had some peaks and valleys within our family recently, and are hopefully coming out the other side of this desert, where we've experienced some major medical, financial and emotional challenges.</div>
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However - throughout all the recent upheavals in my life, there have been a couple monumental things that have kept me moving forward: </div>
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<strong>#1 - M<em>y faith in God</em></strong><em>.</em> Yeah, sometimes I <em>don't </em>feel like getting up and going to Mass. And ashamedly, I've done that. But ya know what? I believe that our God is a loving and forgiving God - yeah, I know He can get angry... but God <em>also </em>knows our human natures...after all - HE DESIGNED US. I personally believe that He <u>gets</u><em> </em>it when I'm <em>Angry. Upset. Frustrated. Hurting. Scared. Annoyed. </em>I have finally figured out that I don't have to feel "guilty" any more just for feeling these <em>feelings.</em> It's what we <strong>do </strong>with those feelings - our actions - that can make or break us. That's where sin comes in. And it's also where <strong>GRACE </strong>comes in. All we have to do is <em>ask </em>- and God will grant us the GRACE to deal with what we <em>need - at that moment.</em> I plan on discussing this amazing gift again - I've begun to learn quite a bit about it recently!</div>
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<strong>#2 - <em>Random Acts of Kindness</em></strong><em>.</em> By this, I mean I've been on the <em>receiving</em> end of kindness throughout all of my recent tribulations.<em> </em>Whether from family, close friends, acquaintances or complete strangers, I've had some glimpses of perfect love and charity passed to me in recent months, and the effect has been over-whelming at times. It always seems to come to me <em>when I need it most. </em></div>
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And <em>that's </em>the important thing. You just never know what the person on the receiving end could be enduring <em>at that particular moment in time. </em>Maybe they're having a good day - who knows! Then your small random act of kindness will be a positive reinforcement to their current joy in the world around them - and hopefully, that person will immediately pay that act of kindness forward to another. </div>
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But what if that person on the receiving end of your random act of kindness is <em>not </em>having a "good" day? What if they are experiencing extreme hardship, stress, ill health, grief, anger ... or any number of sad or negative experiences? </div>
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I have to say that I believe that your while your act of kindness may not be paid forward <em>as "quickly," </em>the impact and effect that it has <em>AT THAT MOMENT</em> could just be a small gift of grace that that person needed. Perhaps they are experiencing too much to even consider passing on a random act of kindness to another human being. However - the probability that they would never forget your actions is high. They will <em>remember </em>the small smile you gave them, the favor you granted, the cut in line, the free cup of coffee, the kind word, the wave, the ride home... and perhaps, when life seems a little less stressful, they will remember and <em>then </em>pay it forward - to someone else who <em>really needed it at that particular moment.</em></div>
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I've been told by several people in my life that paying it forward is really just creating "good Karma." I have to disagree... because when you truly commit a random act of kindness from your heart - from the depth of your soul - you <em>care.</em> You <em>care </em>about that fellow human being at that moment - you <em>care, </em>really, for <em>all </em>of humanity. It's no longer just a question of "tit-for-tat" or matching up what comes in or goes out spiritually. <strong>Love </strong>has to be involved for it to truly work.</div>
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I've run across several blogs, websites and articles over the years on the effects of "Paying It Forward," and one of the best quotes I've come across is this:</div>
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<strong><em>"Any random act of kindness can cause a positive ripple effect restoring our faith in the love and compassion of the human spirit."</em></strong></div>
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In recent months, those acts <u>have</u> given me new hope, renewed my strength, and restored my faith... I'm finally arriving back to the place emotionally where I can fully open myself up to passing this on. Again - I didn't forget any of those moments. They have stayed with me, and I pray that I can be an example and conduit of Grace now to someone <em>else</em>.</div>
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<strong>“It is my wildest dream that the concept of paying a favor forward instead of paying it back would take over the world and results in a cascading flood of people helping their fellow human beings. This may never come true but I believe that if just one of the people I help does the same for another person then it has made a difference to the world. I do not have a lot of money, I am not extremely gifted or intelligent, I don’t now how to make things better for everyone but if I can help anyone in some small way, whether that be opening a door for a lady who has her hands full with shopping, directing a lost tourist, informing an elderly man as to when the next bus will arrive or even just saying “thank-you” and smiling at a sales assistant who appears to have had a bad day, I know that my small favors somehow, somewhere make a difference, and that’s enough for me. Don’t pay it back – pay it forward. The world wont change, but you can.” posting on a kindness website by Bree, a 20 year old Australian</strong></div>
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May you be <em>Blessed </em>today - and every day!</div>
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<em>(Quotations from "Pay It Forward Day - Best Pay It Forward Stories": payitforwardday.com)</em></div>
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<em><strong>Pay it forward - Spread a Smile !</strong></em></div>
Pamela Bousquethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933486351538669537noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6866993381487441183.post-4674364651213835132012-01-06T20:55:00.001-05:002012-01-06T21:20:07.657-05:00TRY, TRY, AGAIN....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAESFqnF3JGhXPWSYxCX1UJMda_v-0s3S2vHbCl7UmFDcrSlguLtlGKWOpZY6eKYHg-ITCZR3KZmqLYHLiu9dEXxsUZa7acTZONyjokBC1FvCyNZPPyvY4qevWojV4NPL85ggu3Q6XhJ7N/s1600/imagesCAYS08E3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAESFqnF3JGhXPWSYxCX1UJMda_v-0s3S2vHbCl7UmFDcrSlguLtlGKWOpZY6eKYHg-ITCZR3KZmqLYHLiu9dEXxsUZa7acTZONyjokBC1FvCyNZPPyvY4qevWojV4NPL85ggu3Q6XhJ7N/s320/imagesCAYS08E3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>HELLO OLD FRIENDS!!</strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Well, after a year (actually - it's been OVER a year!) I'm back.... at least, I <em>think </em>I'm back! (insert smiley face here!)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Alas, what BETTER time of year - when making New Year's resolutions - to re-start, jump-start, RENEW my outlet for self-expression and optimism? Due partly to just letting LIFE "get in the way," I've <em>also </em>experienced some major set-backs within my life - I think I've spent the last few months of this year just reflecting on all that has happened in that time-frame. Both good and bad, it's definitely been a roller-coaster of a ride!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">One thing I've discovered in my absence from this page, is that I was experiencing a tremendous amount of guilt during those less-than-stellar moments in my life when I attempted to sit down to spread a positive thought out into the world... I mistakenly felt that I just couldn't do it. I've always known deep within me what I wanted this blog to represent. During all these lower points, I took a (probably) too-deep look at my current situation and ended up developing a major pity-party for myself in the process!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Besides a major health scare and <em>another </em>open-heart surgery for my husband, ailing parents, financial issues, job searching... I previously thought the year was just going down hill all the way. But believe me, I've also had PLENTY to be happy and thankful for as well this past year... So then, what about those moments that <em>weren't </em>so bad, or so ugly, or so horrible? Simple. <em>Laziness.</em></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I let myself slip out of the habit of writing - and sharing. The next thing I knew - three months had gone by - then six, then twelve. Isn't that how we let most bad habits take over? Without thinking - <em>without focus </em> it . just . happens .</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">And so - my "theme" this evening, if you will - in keep with our traditions of renewal during the month of January - is that <strong>it's o.k.</strong> .....</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><ul><li><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>TO GET BACK UP</strong></div></li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>TO TRY AGAIN</strong></div></li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>TO START OVER</strong></div></li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>TO SET A NEW GOAL</strong></div></li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>TO DREAM A NEW DREAM</strong></div></li>
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;">My mission statement within this blog has always been - and will continue to be - to spread a positive word - or smile, if you will. I hope you will continue to walk with me in that endeavor, while I learn to cut myself some slack in my self-expectations! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I might not be able to write each and every single day, but I'm going to set a NEW goal that I <strong><em>start </em></strong>by <u>trying</u> to post at least once a week - and hopefully, the <em>good </em>habits return, and I post more than that! And if I don't - I don't. But I won't get all "hung up" about it!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I sincerely pray that all of <em>you </em>are looking <strong>UP </strong>at this time - looking ahead to the possibilities, and taking the time to re-charge and re-kindle your batteries. Happy New Year to all of you - I look forward to renewing some blogger friendships, and making new ones!!!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Pay it forward - spread a smile!!!</strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><em>-Pam</em></strong><br />
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<em>(photo courtesy Google Images)</em></div>Pamela Bousquethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933486351538669537noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6866993381487441183.post-70322635251697611342010-08-13T16:20:00.000-04:002010-08-13T16:20:51.932-04:00Personal time....Sorry for the absence, friends.... still dealing with some personal issues. I will be out-of-town for the next week, and hope to return to you (and my page) with <em>bells </em>on as soon as I return.<br />
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Thanks for the understanding, and good wishes - it's appreciated!<br />
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-PamPamela Bousquethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933486351538669537noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6866993381487441183.post-16151217268162564322010-07-21T18:33:00.001-04:002010-07-21T18:35:12.516-04:00"Wordless" Wednesday: Craving....Sand & Surf !<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaWOOS0PwND_YTKfZ9hRnY5JpBTbhvr6qgHn_hngAfQsps1n1tR5qQaHFZD2xtTTUs_3oGbvsDDnqI-k79k4sJcej8l2vlI51zh_Qg-t0d5kIAEoiyxcjfMJjmUN42bNYTDooEOxDSmZ2o/s1600/DSCN0788.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" hw="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaWOOS0PwND_YTKfZ9hRnY5JpBTbhvr6qgHn_hngAfQsps1n1tR5qQaHFZD2xtTTUs_3oGbvsDDnqI-k79k4sJcej8l2vlI51zh_Qg-t0d5kIAEoiyxcjfMJjmUN42bNYTDooEOxDSmZ2o/s320/DSCN0788.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>Do you ever get the feelin' that you got to get away?</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong></strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>It's a sympton of the fever all across the U. S. A.</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong><br />
</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>My family doctor told me "son the flu is what you have!"</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>But I know it's island fever, and I got it real bad.</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong><br />
</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>Hey doc I need a pain reliever!</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>(Oooo I got it bad) I got the island fever!</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong><br />
</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>I got it bad, I got the island fever!</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>(Oooo I got it bad) I got the island fever!</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">from the song: "Island Fever" by The Beach Boys</span></em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Tom Melcher & Mike Love)</span></em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Well, we're not getting any beach-time soon...but I have <em>amazing </em>memories of previous vacations spent on sandy shores. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Watching the waves roll in, clouds drifting in endless shapes and sizes, the sun warming my skin and healing my soul. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Just looking at these pictures brings a smile to my face, and Joy to my heart as I recall those sensations. Craving? Yes. But happy that I can always return another day....</div><br />
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<strong><em>Pay it forward - spread a smile!</em></strong></div>Pamela Bousquethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933486351538669537noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6866993381487441183.post-62915656446079701632010-07-05T18:11:00.000-04:002010-07-05T18:11:07.367-04:00July 5th - After the Fireworks<div align="justify" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDStUdb90F5dCUw7D-PUtgMy_y3lRxl2FFsTVBXPu_B36AigO9vRRCB6OOUkbRXk3yUvw3W32_y2HoktH2kcC3_kTaXw3Nln8hcrhxh-avtbPcFjsPiuK11_BIsEacb3gswirQ6rnG7Wma/s1600/IMG_4297a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" rw="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDStUdb90F5dCUw7D-PUtgMy_y3lRxl2FFsTVBXPu_B36AigO9vRRCB6OOUkbRXk3yUvw3W32_y2HoktH2kcC3_kTaXw3Nln8hcrhxh-avtbPcFjsPiuK11_BIsEacb3gswirQ6rnG7Wma/s320/IMG_4297a.jpg" width="235" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Upon visiting a new site for fellow <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">bloggers</span> and writers this morning, I discovered this picture.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It wasn't until <em>after </em>I had been staring at the photo (for several minutes!) and then left a comment for the host that I realized what the subject matter was, and <em>then </em>what I was supposed to do!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It took me a minute, but it hit me - it's a close-up of firecrackers! <em>Cool. </em>Still feeling the "glow" of our 4th of July festivities and fun, I really liked this picture. It just tied in beautifully with all that our family did over the long 4th of July weekend!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://magpietales.blogspot.com/">Magpie Tales</a> instructed us to write a "short vignette or poem" on the basis of this photo. Today being Monday, July 5th, I have to say that it still feels like we're on the holiday! Although many businesses are closed today<em> - </em>in honor of the holiday that fell on a Sunday this year - the "hullabaloo" is over, the cloudy haze from thousands of fireworks has cleared, the frantic last-minute grocery shopping is over, and even the traffic isn't as bad. We are filled with great memories of another celebration of our country's independence and freedom. Spent with family and dear friends, I couldn't let the day go by without remembering <em>why </em>I'm glad I'm an American.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We are Blessed and fortunate to live in a nation that - although it has it's flaws and failures - <em>still</em> continues to offer us <em>so </em>much more. In that regard, I decided to keep today's posting simple. (and sometimes, "simple" is better!) Thinking of all those reasons I'm glad to be an American, I actually started making this list last night while watching even <em>more </em>fireworks - way off in the distance - from the top of our front-porch roof! (we have quite a "view" from that perch!)</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><strong>Top Ten Reasons I'm Glad to Be an American</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>(in no particular order)</em></div><ol><li><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-31DmVtEQjgtOZLLB-SnDUErxOhyA_Iua4I0k9YzFIqXo35hfKKcUb7lmhqHScFwV4MhyphenhyphenF9w7ggknhUe1715ggLMJZSRcq1wFCviIomgj-L1p-kPhSduNMFbV61yp90eIHjBhoL-GT0A-/s1600/IMG_0114.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" rw="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-31DmVtEQjgtOZLLB-SnDUErxOhyA_Iua4I0k9YzFIqXo35hfKKcUb7lmhqHScFwV4MhyphenhyphenF9w7ggknhUe1715ggLMJZSRcq1wFCviIomgj-L1p-kPhSduNMFbV61yp90eIHjBhoL-GT0A-/s320/IMG_0114.jpg" /></a>My Catholic family and I can worship as often and where-ever we wish, with no repercussions. We can worship in <em>any faith </em>that we choose.</div></li>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">We can travel and participate in vacations anywhere within this great country without issue.</div></li>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">We can even travel <em>outside </em>the country, visiting neighbors world-wide, knowing that we can always return home.</div></li>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">My children have always been guaranteed an education.</div></li>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">Regardless of the paperwork, red-tape, and hassle, we have <em>always </em>been able to find health-care.</div></li>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">Even though we may not always <em>choose </em>to voice an opinion, we have the ability and the right to do so.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgQpDf8pfqwFig0CBwJ-VEheQd_reZ5uDIsflNhRHdubItOiRWIp13SQSYNEFa0AVCSqJNkl9wUjHmeFswMJA_kUY4y83z4VrEkmpij4tF0sbL7c7-dwTQHMknyterKn1F1A5mZyI65tEP/s1600/IMG_0116.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" rw="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgQpDf8pfqwFig0CBwJ-VEheQd_reZ5uDIsflNhRHdubItOiRWIp13SQSYNEFa0AVCSqJNkl9wUjHmeFswMJA_kUY4y83z4VrEkmpij4tF0sbL7c7-dwTQHMknyterKn1F1A5mZyI65tEP/s320/IMG_0116.jpg" /></a></div></li>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">Even though we may not always <em>choose </em>to do so, <u>all</u> citizens have the ability and right to vote for their governmental representatives. And we can do (or not do) this without fear of reprisal.</div></li>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">If we don't "like" our current life and circumstances, we have the freedom to pick up and start over elsewhere.</div></li>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">We have the privilege and ability to choose and participate in many forms of recreation and entertainment - from sports activities and clubs, to movies and concerts ( and yes, even neighborhood parties with fireworks!) - without excessive censorship or interference.</div></li>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">We can be anything we want - <em>or dream</em> - to be!</div></li>
</ol><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-6RAkLl-LvqPynQjhE9PScgdoAXqL2fg-8Pjy4GWl__LYgfOo40SvzOhTnNZNfHU8czLrk0Ug93JSU18adCzeJ_VC1sKDpPedmXJnTJLtmvqw-VSjxp2s7O3I4MpkHSbccSUsiPhIP1yx/s1600/IMG_0123.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" rw="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-6RAkLl-LvqPynQjhE9PScgdoAXqL2fg-8Pjy4GWl__LYgfOo40SvzOhTnNZNfHU8czLrk0Ug93JSU18adCzeJ_VC1sKDpPedmXJnTJLtmvqw-VSjxp2s7O3I4MpkHSbccSUsiPhIP1yx/s320/IMG_0123.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">After the fireworks, picnics, sitting with family, drinking with friends, playing with the kids, what better way to contemplate what this country stands for? I also thank and honor all of those who have <em>ever </em>given the ultimate sacrifice in support of this belief and cause. </div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">"In the truest sense, </span></strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">freedom cannot be bestowed;</span></strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">it must be achieved."</span></strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>- Franklin D. Roosevelt</em></div><br />
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<em>What are <u>your</u> Top Ten?</em> <br />
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<strong><em>Pay it forward - spread a smile!</em></strong>Pamela Bousquethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933486351538669537noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6866993381487441183.post-85321472324137253272010-07-03T08:15:00.002-04:002010-07-06T10:31:45.058-04:00A Pat On The Back!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeZF9_kKdKO1s_oAHqoasqOXTHE93DYDcRqNxFx9uWLp6aH4GGEa3o7QbYlBfkHHr1RDj0ZbqQZewwgp_OwD3XVVlI2HFWJn_oMCSHawNL4qW6K_6iVHZh6dXlvc2zDVnnBEExb1oNIr9o/s1600/SubstanceAward.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" rw="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeZF9_kKdKO1s_oAHqoasqOXTHE93DYDcRqNxFx9uWLp6aH4GGEa3o7QbYlBfkHHr1RDj0ZbqQZewwgp_OwD3XVVlI2HFWJn_oMCSHawNL4qW6K_6iVHZh6dXlvc2zDVnnBEExb1oNIr9o/s320/SubstanceAward.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I know deep within that we aren't always going to get to witness the outcome when we've offered "good deeds," words of encouragement or moments of support to others. Faith teaches us that we continue on <em>"just because."</em></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">My blog is an effort to just spread a small amount of happiness, in a small space, in a short amount of "time." Reaching out to <em>whoever </em>happens to cross this path. But ocassionally, it <em>does </em>feel good when someone turns back to you and says <em>"thank you," </em>or <em>"good job!"</em></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We all need to hear and feel those words from time-to-time. I received a little award last night from a new blogging friend, and I must say, the name of the award says it all. I'm glad Suzie believes I truly have something substantial to offer.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In receiving this Blog of Substance Award, I am to describe my blog's purpose and "philosophy" in 5 words:</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">a little ray of sunshine </span></strong></div><br />
And in that same spirit, I'm to share this award with 10 additional bloggers:<br />
<em>(in no particular order)</em><br />
<br />
<ol><li><a href="http://lessonsfromthemonkimarried.blogspot.com/">Lessons From the Monk I Married</a></li>
<li><a href="http://michelechastain.blogspot.com/">Fake It Till You Make It</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jean-livingsimple.blogspot.com/">The Joy of Birdwatching and Living A Simple Life</a></li>
<li><a href="http://crimsoncoveredfarmlife.blogspot.com/">Crimson Covered Farmlife</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.ratherbeblogging.com/">I'd Rather Be Blogging</a></li>
<li><a href="http://buttsandashes.blogspot.com/">Butts and Ashes</a></li>
<li><a href="http://healingmorning.blogspot.com/">Healing Morning</a></li>
<li><a href="http://dailycopingskills.blogspot.com/">Daily Coping Skills</a></li>
<li><a href="http://randomrecycling.blogspot.com/">Random Recycling</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.mydailyspirit.net/">My Daily Spirit</a></li>
</ol>I'd like to personally thank each of the above-mentioned writers for continuing to bring <strong><em>me </em></strong>a bit of inspiration (and <em>motivation!</em>) each day - each of you write with conviction and faith. Be sure to check them out!<br />
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<strong><em>Pay it forward - spread a smile!</em></strong>Pamela Bousquethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933486351538669537noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6866993381487441183.post-91860489846905880232010-07-02T11:58:00.001-04:002010-07-02T11:58:36.661-04:00Pay It Forward Fridays: Shopping With A " Stranger "<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_gekzJiklnkUkWPHC0MJ4zPh_-4aLw2mo49flFcMNXhDIxsTwsYpjWXqHr1s1FirB7vOFQaK45Gjq6p2QTo5cc8wRV1aTHXwtBB2mWPQW4EzqIYV3dl3SKEoQDj4LEQVubtjvtk5mFvxC/s1600/imagesCA9X3EXZ.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: right; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" rw="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_gekzJiklnkUkWPHC0MJ4zPh_-4aLw2mo49flFcMNXhDIxsTwsYpjWXqHr1s1FirB7vOFQaK45Gjq6p2QTo5cc8wRV1aTHXwtBB2mWPQW4EzqIYV3dl3SKEoQDj4LEQVubtjvtk5mFvxC/s200/imagesCA9X3EXZ.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I missed last weeks "Pay It Forward Friday" - had a <em>much-needed </em>date-night with my hubby last Friday, and it was simply too late when I got home to write!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Been thinking about what I could do for someone this week, and my opportunity presented itself in a very fun way on Wednesday. After meeting a "long-lost" friend for an amazing lunch, I stopped at our local craft and hobby store for some supplies and 4th of July decorations. I had made arrangements to take my youngest niece out to the movies that afternoon but fortunately wasn't in too much of a rush.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Holding some decorations and a couple jars of decoupage glue, I was searching the aisles for a specific kind of craft paint. Looking up and down the racks, the woman next to me leaned over and pointed to the items in my arms - "you look like a crafty person, could I ask for your opinion?"</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Now, the first thing that came to my mind was <em>"<strong>I </strong>look like a crafty person?" </em>But I found myself answering her with a "sure!!" anyway. I'm certainly not an expert in any particular art medium - by any means. But I <em>have </em>dabbled in quite a few craft projects over the years, particularly <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">faux</span> and decorative painting. Trying to decide the best way to make over a gold, plastic angel, we started to fall into an easy discussion about paints that would offer the best coverage and give her the look that she required. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The next thing I knew, we were walking up and down the aisles together, searching for products and discussing color-choices. Before I knew it, 20 minutes had gone by! Again I wasn't in a hurry, but I <u>did</u> need to pick up my niece in a timely manner. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">My new friend and I continued to discuss her project and look at paints for another 10 minutes, and I then explained I needed to check out. She thanked me profusely, and I felt genuinely happy when I responded with "it was my pleasure." I bid her the best of luck on her project, and wished her a wonderful holiday weekend. With another thank you and "Happy 4th of July," we parted without ever exchanging names.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I don't know if I've ever done that before - I mean, I've quickly helped someone look for something in a store before, but to actually spend a little <em>time </em>discussing something and exchanging <em>ideas </em>with a total stranger? Never. And it was <strong>cool!</strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I feel like my little random act of kindness was "re-paid" yesterday when going to lunch with my boys at a local fast-food chicken place - the restaurant was absolutely <u>packed,</u> and we had trays full of food and no where to sit. Another mother with two kids in tow came up to me and said we could have their table. They weren't even quite finished - her little girl was still finishing up her dessert, but she gave us her table anyway. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Hmmmm</span>..... one simple act of kindness begets another? Hard to prove, I know. Still, I can't <em>help </em>but wonder what our world would be like if we ALL started to practice these tiny - yet significant - little exercises of cheer and kindness.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Wow - isn't it cool to know there are strangers out there who are our <em>friends?</em></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><em>Pay it forward - Spread a smile!</em></strong><br />
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<em>Photo courtesy Google Images and Photosearch</em></div>Pamela Bousquethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933486351538669537noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6866993381487441183.post-28027210036748054102010-06-24T22:24:00.001-04:002010-06-24T22:26:38.440-04:00Polishing the Dull Side...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuGHuJ6kpZvLBXeJQ_V0qF7Nx1ul9cBkzXL6rqa9LX7DAfK4aiBc4ivbX-eKooG5eSewqXcI2ub_7hy2hr4swfAKo4ECIJ0Q7DLPQ_B06OGjDWHPpz0QQO3z5S_jlp13GsHYRWQ3Cgj4Q3/s1600/house_drawing.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="190" ru="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuGHuJ6kpZvLBXeJQ_V0qF7Nx1ul9cBkzXL6rqa9LX7DAfK4aiBc4ivbX-eKooG5eSewqXcI2ub_7hy2hr4swfAKo4ECIJ0Q7DLPQ_B06OGjDWHPpz0QQO3z5S_jlp13GsHYRWQ3Cgj4Q3/s200/house_drawing.gif" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I've been obsessing over the carpet in our home lately.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">First of all, it's a light color. (not white, mind you, but a <em>very </em>light beige!) Second, we have 3 boys, 4 dogs and a cat. Third, the house is 11 years old.....high traffic, <em>high maintenance </em>for eleven years adds up.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I've cleaned it, and cleaned it. And ....cleaned it some more. It's <u>really</u> starting to show the wear-and-tear. While part of it doesn't look "too" bad, the few real stains that are present are <em>way</em> beyond ever coming out. A professional steam cleaning isn't even going to help now...</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">To top it all off, the wood flooring that we have throughout the kitchen, dining and hallway areas are pretty beat up as well. <u>That</u> either needs to be stripped and re-surfaced, or completely pulled up and done over. After eleven years in our home - I keep finding <em>so </em>many things that are now either coming due for replacement, or major repair. It's overwhelming, and I <em>know </em>there's no way we'll be able to tackle these kind of expenses any time soon.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I'm not looking for perfection here, but I <em>do </em>mind these things when they start to look dirty and unkempt. I've known for a while that I'm a little obsessive-compulsive when it comes to organization and neatness, but I'm usually not too picky when it comes to the heavy cleaning. (With three boys, I'm sure you could relate!)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Why am I writing about my dirty floors on a blog that should be offering snippets of positivity and inspiration?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Even though I have been unhappy with the way certain areas in our home are beginning to appear faded or dingy, <em>I'm truly thankful that I even <strong>have </strong>a home to clean. </em>I'm almost looking at those stains now as "badges of honor." With so many families losing their homes in this dark economic era (and some losing even <u>more)</u> I have <em>nothing </em>to complain about. Reminders that a close and loving family fills this dwelling, those stains are starting to remind me <u>j</u>ust how fortunate and Blessed our family is to <u>have</u> a home to clean....</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Even though their bedrooms constantly need vacuuming and dusting, my boys are lucky enough to even <em>have </em>their own personal space, and a bed to lie on.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Even though I cringe when I note the wood decaying under the dishwasher in our small, crowded kitchen, we are Blessed with a full pantry and refrigerator.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Even though we don't have the financial means to create the landscape of our dreams, God continues to grant us the ability to call this little slice of heaven our <em>home....</em>and it is filled with <strong>love.</strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It's more than just your average "attitude of gratitude." This has been a conscious decision on my part to face an otherwise depressing or challenging moment, and <em>try </em>to turn it into a reminder of truth.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">My truth: the worn-out carpet, flooring, paint, and fixtures of my abode have never defined those who dwell within. Home is what you <em>make </em>it, and how you <em>live </em>it.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">"If you can't see the bright side of life, </span></strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">polish the dull side."</span></strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>-Unknown</em></div><br />
In a nutshell: I'm rich!!! :)<br />
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<strong><em>Pay it forward - Spread a Smile !</em></strong><br />
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<em>Photo courtesy of Google images.</em>Pamela Bousquethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933486351538669537noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6866993381487441183.post-36564925815968782802010-06-23T18:32:00.000-04:002010-06-23T18:32:56.600-04:00Wordless Wednesday: Pets - Part of The Family!<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNiOLuia4_D1VFgeUG6tkT2QK-FzfyjmGkKtjvsbzWPcw6PkqTeaDeGDx8nirwfoGAGhD0OpI0uy-L1zqoPX_Wfo6ycjHiLdiMOGZxATHQAm1J6kbAbZy3vv3doYb28m5n4VALTJ97IXtX/s1600/Best+Easter.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="181" ru="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNiOLuia4_D1VFgeUG6tkT2QK-FzfyjmGkKtjvsbzWPcw6PkqTeaDeGDx8nirwfoGAGhD0OpI0uy-L1zqoPX_Wfo6ycjHiLdiMOGZxATHQAm1J6kbAbZy3vv3doYb28m5n4VALTJ97IXtX/s320/Best+Easter.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Well, I'm feeling better! But due to some time constraints today, and still feeling like I'm in "catch-up" mode, I thought I would introduce you to some of the other members of our family.</div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Looking into the eyes of each of our pets, I personally know that there <em>must </em>be a special place for these amazing and <u>insightful</u> creatures when they leave us...often much too soon. They just know and <em>understand </em>too much (in my opinion) to not have some kind of soul.</div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Introducing :</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrU0XfsZ6BuapPBE-aeDi8E00egzTNcR7ShqHTqBC2F4IigLd3S5nLq2BCsibbuTUMwil6w2B_ce8_OzLdZPOh3s0aIIOFKZyPjZ8474xqh5LByWxMXA0TWnW3oeIHu14pmO2s1jc-JfE-/s1600/HPIM0231.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="347" ru="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrU0XfsZ6BuapPBE-aeDi8E00egzTNcR7ShqHTqBC2F4IigLd3S5nLq2BCsibbuTUMwil6w2B_ce8_OzLdZPOh3s0aIIOFKZyPjZ8474xqh5LByWxMXA0TWnW3oeIHu14pmO2s1jc-JfE-/s400/HPIM0231.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><strong>Lizzie</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;">Havanese</div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>(aka: Mom's "girl," "the Princess", thinks she Alpha!)</em></div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYPi4LJGLBqlKRPMCYSlZtQ6-BbCFJxVh6Y-fXPzTXKEyb5bTS3PLx6_YkmQWybmtizwmrBLl9hsHbAjqdx8hIUJtQB_ZZQ1cpYT32ZP-lUMafXEaKcte4rK0k_XWQDhc89cvSHrTs8gKR/s1600/DSCN0611.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" ru="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYPi4LJGLBqlKRPMCYSlZtQ6-BbCFJxVh6Y-fXPzTXKEyb5bTS3PLx6_YkmQWybmtizwmrBLl9hsHbAjqdx8hIUJtQB_ZZQ1cpYT32ZP-lUMafXEaKcte4rK0k_XWQDhc89cvSHrTs8gKR/s400/DSCN0611.JPG" width="400" /></a><strong>Ricky</strong></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">Imperial Shitzhu</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>(aka: "Little Buddy," Gremlin, EWok, 7 lbs of pure Ninja!)</em></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4RaOe3U0cjPOB81vL-CW3zNYJ-Byz7ZmSQ0nv7e8z3gRimxbitDfASNNJtWOAjwO_wOlIILPLS88yHmLWGLHlVtfop0D-DUB-yoX4dsy4WGCPj8Ku0_6NPw5cUISB2yMaEhmubo1-bhUO/s1600/Rusty+-+Nick%27s+best+buddy!.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" ru="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4RaOe3U0cjPOB81vL-CW3zNYJ-Byz7ZmSQ0nv7e8z3gRimxbitDfASNNJtWOAjwO_wOlIILPLS88yHmLWGLHlVtfop0D-DUB-yoX4dsy4WGCPj8Ku0_6NPw5cUISB2yMaEhmubo1-bhUO/s400/Rusty+-+Nick%27s+best+buddy!.JPG" width="400" /></a><em></em></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong>Rusty</strong></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">Terrier Mix</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>(aka: Chewbacca, Corned Beef, "I Love you, Man!")</em></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong>Miette</strong></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">Snow-Shoe</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>(aka: Pretty Girl, Dog-Lover, name is French for "Sweet.")</em></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong>"Animals are such agreeable friends -</strong></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong>they ask no questions,</strong></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong>they pass no criticisms."</strong></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>- George Eliot (Author 1819-1880)</em></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><em><strong>Pay it foward - Spread a Smile !</strong></em></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Pamela Bousquethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933486351538669537noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6866993381487441183.post-73944466973284073312010-06-18T22:11:00.000-04:002010-06-18T22:11:48.997-04:00Pay it Forward Fridays - Reposting: "Smiles...at a Bargain!"<div align="justify"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg8pZJO718f7fQjVyrhDNDUMNy0PjKRcaKLwU-1YbGFtYUi7pd5hra8kUr6mSluamWfdNRl7fPx8XK31WZ5Vvbe9BBu902tFGscZ5JKCKzN20a-9WeVBlcobUmwqvH2HyVWLcv2xzZOe3O/s1600-h/smiley.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399692739071486786" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg8pZJO718f7fQjVyrhDNDUMNy0PjKRcaKLwU-1YbGFtYUi7pd5hra8kUr6mSluamWfdNRl7fPx8XK31WZ5Vvbe9BBu902tFGscZ5JKCKzN20a-9WeVBlcobUmwqvH2HyVWLcv2xzZOe3O/s320/smiley.jpg" style="cursor: hand; float: left; height: 147px; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 146px;" /></a><br />
Okay, so, I've been fighting what I <em>know </em>is going to ultimately go down as another sinus infection this week. Honestly? I've <u>truly</u> been thinking about random acts of kindness all this week, and what I could do...but my energy has "gone up and <em>went </em>!"<br />
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Because I love the idea of what even <em>little</em> things can mean to other people, I'm reposting one of my first blogs today .... <br />
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<strong><u>From November, 2009:</u></strong><br />
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Anyone out there really like finding a good bargain? With most people in this country experiencing the recession in some way, I'm sure we all understand the importance of being frugal and "penny wise!"<br />
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Like many others, our family's income has suffered some major blows over the last year or so, and I find myself cutting corners in any way that I can when doing the household shopping. We have three sons, all of whom are still living at home: the eldest, age 25, received two Associates Degrees in computer science recently, works full-time and will be continuing his education and certifications this coming year; our middle child - age 22, has completed Culinary School and is a full-time Chef for an organic and gourmet food chain; and the youngest is 17, a swimmer and Senior this year in high school. My husband and I are very blessed - all three of them continue to pitch in with household chores and responsibilities (usually without <em>too</em> much complaint!) The two eldest, who might be continuing their education, contribute financially as much as their "early career" incomes will allow!<br />
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I'm sure - even if you've never had a son - that you can appreciate just how much food this family can go through (not to mention all those "little" things like soap, laundry detergent, deodorant and shaving cream!) Let me tell you, I've had these boys around for some time, and it STILL amazes me! The youngest one - the swimmer - even amazes his older brothers in his ability for mass consumption. When all three are actually present at the dinner table (yes, we still manage to do that several evenings a week!) it's basically a "free-for-all" ....you snooze, you loose!<br />
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SO - with all the shopping I still have to accomplish each month, I've found myself frequenting some discount establishments that (years ago) I would never have thought would now be a regular stop on my bi-weekly excursions. I've given up the need for the "expensive" shampoos, body washes and facial care products, have opted for off-brand cleaning and paper products, and continue to select "store-brands" whenever possible. Usually shopping at our local grocery store for most everything (with coupons in hand) I recently discovered that I can save even more money on some of my monthly necessities at a small discount store. I stop at this store before making the trip to the grocery store, and I always manage to cut quite a bit off my shopping budget for the month.<br />
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Yesterday being the end of the month, today was most <u>definitely</u> the day to refill the pantry, so once again I stopped at that little discount center first. Because I had balanced the checkbook before leaving (and took a peek at the bills I would have to pay later in the day) I wasn't in the cheeriest of moods this morning as I wandered around gathering the usual specials. I finally got to the aisle where I always buy this store's brand of facial products...and felt myself giving in to an immediate self pity party. <em>"Why do I have to scrimp on my beauty products - at this age (when I need them the most!)"</em> After all, it wasn't like I was buying those expensive department-store brands ...now I'm buying copies of the COPIES!! (I wasn't raging mad, mind you - but the internal pouting I was doing would have shamed a two-year-old.)<br />
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I made my way over to the tiny check-out area, which is just crammed with all kinds of candy, lighters, trinkets and dollar-items...there's barely enough room there to lay out your purchases. They usually keep only one register open in this place, and I waited behind one other person as they placed their items on the counter one-at-a-time for the clerk to ring up. It was getting a little annoying as she methodically picked up one thing at a time out of her cart. However, she <em>finally</em> completed the process and paid her bill. Just as she was finishing, I turned to look behind me and standing there was the tinniest little old woman - I mean <em>little</em>! (I kept wondering later if she actually drove herself to the store, and "could she see over the steering-wheel?") She wasn't terribly old, but a good bit older than <u>my</u> mom. She was holding a bottle of Mr. Clean and a box of something (I couldn't see) in front of her, along with a handbag almost as big as she was.<br />
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You've done it, haven't you? You have a shopping cart full - and even though you're worn out, completely <em>"over"</em> the whole shopping, saving money, and comparing prices thing and <u>want</u> to get home - you've let someone holding only one or two items check out ahead of you. Thing is, today it made <em>me</em> feel better. That little old lady asked me <u>twice</u> if I was sure I didn't mind (probably because we'd both been waiting behind "Ms. Poky!") She couldn't believe it, and I reassured her it was absolutely fine...she only had 2 items!<br />
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My pity party was over. By doing a small, random act of kindness I felt better. Maybe it made her feel good too, I may never know. What I <em>do</em> know is this...even though some people might say the "random act of kindness" and "pay-it-forward" thing has been over-done, it ultimately <strong>does</strong> matter<strong> </strong>to us - on a personal level. It's not always about making <em>another</em> person feel good or making <em>their </em>day....it's also<strong> </strong>about reminding <u>ourselves </u>how it <em>feels to be kind</em>, while possibly healing a little something that might have been missing within ourselves for awhile.<br />
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I still had to complete the major portion of my grocery shopping after that, and I didn't relish the thought of spending even more money. Taking a moment to let the little favor I just granted to a stranger sink in, I walked to the car with a smile on my face - knowing that I had just put a smile on hers.<br />
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<em><strong>Pay it forward - spread a smile!</strong></em></div><div align="justify"><em></em></div><div align="justify"><br />
<em>(photo courtesy of Google images.)</em></div>Pamela Bousquethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933486351538669537noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6866993381487441183.post-63163338222258292042010-06-16T19:36:00.000-04:002010-06-16T19:36:36.855-04:00Wordless Wednesday: Beautiful Butterflies !<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcLHa5FuAO4H5VpBmFJEgnnH917x_eFs9ersf6Lsw8vNU2a2fNgS74J21by4qb_YyXvEo9v8f_c3h8eYaZRN6Bvz-LKi7algpIg1rsMFat4XnMYTLm4Z2W4Uk1P9ik1qgzCe35rYuU43uG/s1600/DCP_1001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" qu="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcLHa5FuAO4H5VpBmFJEgnnH917x_eFs9ersf6Lsw8vNU2a2fNgS74J21by4qb_YyXvEo9v8f_c3h8eYaZRN6Bvz-LKi7algpIg1rsMFat4XnMYTLm4Z2W4Uk1P9ik1qgzCe35rYuU43uG/s400/DCP_1001.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;">I <strong><em>adore</em> </strong>butterflies and moths!</div><div align="justify" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div align="justify" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">...their amazing and brilliant color schemes, intricate shapes, and sizes from extremely tiny to that of a dinner-plate. Their ability to just "float" on even the slightest breeze never ceases to capture my interest, and I watch them in awe whenever I'm in their weightless presence.</div></div><div align="justify" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div align="justify" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I've been to a couple different Butterfly Farms in Florida, and if you ever have the chance to visit one of these amazing places, I <em>highly </em>recommend taking the time to go!</div></div><div align="justify" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div align="justify" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">From my collection:</div><div align="justify"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong>'Happiness is a butterfly which, when pursued, </strong></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong>is always beyond our grasp,</strong></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong>but which if you will sit down quietly,</strong></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong>may alight upon you."</strong></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>- Nathaniel Hawthorne</em></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><strong><em>Pay it forward - spread a smile!</em></strong></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Pamela Bousquethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933486351538669537noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6866993381487441183.post-42922184467373836952010-06-11T23:42:00.000-04:002010-06-11T23:42:43.567-04:00Introducing: "Pay it Forward Fridays"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDOLS9RNTHvq7aGUgPmM7rNt6iV-GsLNwwA1oOYJXHk_wwH-43CvgwAzbg2thIepVDHh51AJ7utcBVinqrgbgkWZT-gj_oUbWoOowu3jVRRdremILYwbVmytPQykubOUtpUv8fNKthnRQY/s1600/pay-it-forward.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" qu="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDOLS9RNTHvq7aGUgPmM7rNt6iV-GsLNwwA1oOYJXHk_wwH-43CvgwAzbg2thIepVDHh51AJ7utcBVinqrgbgkWZT-gj_oUbWoOowu3jVRRdremILYwbVmytPQykubOUtpUv8fNKthnRQY/s200/pay-it-forward.gif" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">At the suggestion of a new blogging friend, I have been inspired to include a new meme at A Dose of Positivity. A "meme" in the world of blogging is another catch-phrase for creating a specific <em>theme</em> - usually one specific day of the week - devoting the posting for that day entirely in support of the meme's message and purpose.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Kelly at <a href="http://bluefrogslegs.blogspot.com/2010/06/pay-it-forward-fridays.html?showComment=1276304059993_AIe9_BEzHIfitufaEM2Ko6RAMGpzIAb9Q2Qdljxg_vkNlMQs179_Sj7UIdjycQla-o3iG9OHdGmpFijqo9oDXFDc52eA15wJ_cTPNxy_xU9sFnBW2o4d84xA0TGJREiT39zNLzjdrYLLeoGkIWPOip-a-z30QKct4WiCk3jwcZ6aqEd_BQTUuJaq8ClWtpwgHQPOm4gE26GL69tAS2UcuvGH4cxsf2Mh35yEV4bQ2EGywWSluohGJbg#c1742994616193596577">Blue Frogs Legs</a> initiated a most <em>wonderful </em>idea for Fridays - <strong>"Pay it Forward Fridays." </strong>Being a devotee of the novel, movie and mantra of the same, I couldn't help but be drawn into her idea and dream for this movement to move into more of the blogging world. We bloggers have <em>so </em>many ways to touch the hearts of many, and whether we write about family life as mommys, review books or movies, keep travel logs or <em>anything,</em> I think we can all agree on one thing...random acts of kindness - in any form - when paid "forward" are contagious, and now within the world of cyberspace, we writers have <u>infinite</u> possibilities to touch lives the world over!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I have touched on this "theory" several times in past postings, (see <a href="http://adoseofpositivity.blogspot.com/2009/11/smilesat-bargain.html">"Smiles - At A Bargain"</a> ) and usually try to incorporate a message as often as I can on how very <em>simple </em>things can make a huge difference in another person's life. Seeing Kelly's post and new idea was a "light-bulb" moment for me, and I'm honored to take up the challenge. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Recently, a very<em> </em>close and personal friend of mine was presented with an opportunity to actually put this "theory" into practice. About a week ago, my friend had stopped at a convenience store/gas station within the city to purchase gas and some snacks before getting on the expressway for his long ride home from work. As he was leaving the store, heading back to his car, a man who definitely appeared to be "down on his luck" came up to my friend and asked him if he could spare a little money, because he hadn't really had anything to eat in a while. My friend knew by looking at him, and the tone of his voice, that this man was probably truthful. Quickly looking around, my friend noticed a fast-food chicken restaurant directly across the street, and made a quick - yet monumental - decision. Telling the man to get into the passenger's seat, my friend then drove him across the busy road to the restaurant, where he took the man inside and purchased him a full meal. He left the man inside to eat his meal in peace, never knowing exactly just how long it had been since this humble person had actually <em>had </em>a meal.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I've been thinking about my friend's experience for quite a few days now, and reading Kelly's post, I knew that I could finally write about this amazing little story of generosity<em>. </em>While I won't embarrass my friend by posting his name, I have to say how proud I was to hear of this story, and how grateful I am to personally know someone of this caliber - for it really did happen, and I know deep within that at the moment, my friend wasn't even thinking about the "pay it foward" movement - it trully was a random act of kindness. Moments like that are usually unexpected, but when we are faced with them, they not only change the outlook of the recipient, but in the blink-of-an-eye, they change <em>us. </em>Sure, many people might walk away thinking in "today's world" such an act of faith would be very risky...would you, when faced with a similar dilemma, invite a seemingly homeless stranger into your car, even though it's only across the street?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhima1tDqDMm20Cee_x4xD5Dg_YYA3cyZD06HqhAMNKpqK_QAWnQCjtfVCh0B-AauKMn6oeNBONla-HrT7AEWFrmErTFn4Q6eXUjlfp2WPn6yQbcx-qMWn1GbfMKPB40IwP-B7mLVT7ILPS/s1600/hope1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="134" qu="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhima1tDqDMm20Cee_x4xD5Dg_YYA3cyZD06HqhAMNKpqK_QAWnQCjtfVCh0B-AauKMn6oeNBONla-HrT7AEWFrmErTFn4Q6eXUjlfp2WPn6yQbcx-qMWn1GbfMKPB40IwP-B7mLVT7ILPS/s200/hope1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Maybe most of us aren't presented with opportunities such as this to perform such a selfless act, but all of us are usually given many moments where we have an occasion to share <em>something. </em>Usually, it doesn't even have to cost us anything - as I've posted before, sometimes taking the time to offer someone a handshake, welcome or smile, can mean <em>so </em>much more.... <em>why </em>does this seem so important to me? In a nutshell, I firmly believe that continuing to pass on a spirit of kindness - of any kind - offers us <strong>hope. </strong><em>All of us, when on the receiving end of a selfless and generous deed know that there is, indeed, still kindness and love remaining within the world.</em></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In this spirit, I would like to begin posting examples on Fridays of those who have "paid it forward." Ways other readers are - or have experienced - paying it forward, and even notes on how I, myself have strived to exercise this belief.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">I sincerely hope that you will join me and my new friend Kelly in promoting the dream. One blog, one story at a time, each of us <em>can </em>make a difference for positive change within the world! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>"Carry out a random act of kindness, with no expectation of reward, safe in the knowledge that one day someone might do the same for you."</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>- Lady Diana</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdgjQfjGapxZ85OZpgELNcdqwQtrxNs1PR9xw-72nOTVB25hSA4shHjxvmouVX9GkLc7sji-xACxxMKR7gjX_2m8OONazPUrv2qDcVjEMAZYzqzA7ZbUcoeZ0zV41WnVVZ7ONFIjRjp0vd/s1600/group+hands.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qu="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdgjQfjGapxZ85OZpgELNcdqwQtrxNs1PR9xw-72nOTVB25hSA4shHjxvmouVX9GkLc7sji-xACxxMKR7gjX_2m8OONazPUrv2qDcVjEMAZYzqzA7ZbUcoeZ0zV41WnVVZ7ONFIjRjp0vd/s320/group+hands.jpg" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">Looking for ideas, additional thoughts, stories and inspiration on how <em>you </em>can get started? There are many links to visit on the Internet, offering tons of suggestions, tips and information. Here's a couple to start:</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;"><strong>The Pay It Forward Movement: <a href="http://www.payitforwardmovement.org/">http://www.payitforwardmovement.org/</a></strong></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;"><strong>The Random Acts of Kindess Foundation: <a href="http://www.actsofkindness.org/">http://www.actsofkindness.org/</a></strong></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;">And be sure to check out Kelly's blog at:<em> </em><a href="http://bluefrogslegs.blogspot.com/2010/05/pay-it-forward-fridays_28.html"><em>http://bluefrogslegs.blogspot.com/2010/05/pay-it-forward-fridays_28.html</em></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;">I look forward to sharing some memorable and inspirational moments with you on <strong><em>"Pay It Forward Fridays!"</em></strong></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;"><strong><em>Pay it forward - spread a smile!</em></strong></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;"><em>Photos courtesy of Google Images.</em></div>Pamela Bousquethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933486351538669537noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6866993381487441183.post-83873410848135286892010-05-28T11:15:00.001-04:002010-07-06T10:33:02.420-04:00YAY! IT'S SUMMER!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyvDWU6twbanGA9djyI_mTxLUUNUvrwN1L2nmyCRNM9JbyhazyGeYEdZn2d4enSTxl51pxzdKe2Q3G7rsLwWi870Bw8oN2Xry7VHnsnGASX2dGGnNPtQ3b7_YGAYH9X1QjHp1dvjt6Wv43/s1600/normal_Absolute_12_61409.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyvDWU6twbanGA9djyI_mTxLUUNUvrwN1L2nmyCRNM9JbyhazyGeYEdZn2d4enSTxl51pxzdKe2Q3G7rsLwWi870Bw8oN2Xry7VHnsnGASX2dGGnNPtQ3b7_YGAYH9X1QjHp1dvjt6Wv43/s320/normal_Absolute_12_61409.jpg" /></a></div><div align="justify">It's here! The beginning of Summer! Something about the 3-day Memorial day weekend, the last day of school (for us, it's today) and warmer temperatures just say - <em>it's Summer! </em>Even though the "official" first day of Summer isn't until the Summer Solstice on June 21st, most of us consider this weekend in America our beginning of the season.</div><div align="justify"><br />
</div><div align="justify">As I was going about my morning routine, I over-heard on the news <em>(I'm usually "over-hearing" everything on the morning news, as I'm doing breakfast, chores, etc. - not actually <u>watching!</u>)</em> that AAA is expecting an increase in the number of people traveling this weekend - up about a million and-a-half people over last year. They attributed this to the fact that many people are just getting "tired" of staying at home, and are finally venturing out for some much-needed relaxation. Hey - I say GO FOR IT ...and it's a <em>good sign </em>for the economy!</div><div align="justify"><br />
</div><div align="justify" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Our family will not be heading anywhere special this weekend, but we <em>will</em> be hosting a cook-out for friends and family. First thing I did was check the weather forecast...uh-oh. Intermittent thunder-showers all weekend. My boys and husband have each asked me whether we'll still have the picnic because of the forecast. I said - <u>yes</u> - why not? Rain or shine, we'll open up the garage, put extra tables out there, (we don't have a very big deck) and <em>still </em>have a great time! After all, my hubby has grilled in the rain <em>many </em>times before! Hey - when you want a party or celebration bad enough, <em>nothing </em>should stand in your way.</div><div align="justify"><br />
</div><div align="justify" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM3uViPH5c7lrf4GsAlY6clxvuzOQ6WTNgaWZrN70KNvMznW7An7cQMU56wb3BXlwUKtwvq_WFmo8C-Rd4sBwchNSTVO3Y51DGBHoRpJOs6C1Ky7gFhP02heinLqPgQAPSQ7L662W_Z88H/s1600/hotdogs1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM3uViPH5c7lrf4GsAlY6clxvuzOQ6WTNgaWZrN70KNvMznW7An7cQMU56wb3BXlwUKtwvq_WFmo8C-Rd4sBwchNSTVO3Y51DGBHoRpJOs6C1Ky7gFhP02heinLqPgQAPSQ7L662W_Z88H/s320/hotdogs1.jpg" /></a>And what a great way to <u>begin</u> this season of vacations, picnics, baseball, time-off, out-door projects, etc., than by remembering those who made this joyful freedom possible? We Americans are <em>so <u>blessed </u></em>that we have the ability to enjoy doing and going wherever we care to ... even if we stop for only a brief moment this weekend, the sacrifices made by our men and women in each branch of our nation's military should be recognized and brought to mind. Most of us in the U.S. haven't experienced other cultures around the globe - to us, our freedoms and privileges have become things that we don't even <em>consider </em>on a daily basis any more. There are <em>still</em> places in the world where you cannot freely attend the church of your choice whenever and wherever you wish.</div><div align="justify"><br />
</div><div align="justify">So, even though we <em>might </em>get rain, or we don't have the most elaborate patio or deck, or we're not able to leave for some other great vacation destination...we will be <em>celebrating</em>. The blessings of family, friends, good food - it's enough. Nothing better than the smell of all-American hot dogs and hamburgers on the grill, kids laughing, everybody chattering at once, music playing in the background....we Americans do that rather well, don't ya think?</div><div align="justify"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgI4ogd6oOvXWY5H124Y5hVzLnXte1k8XTydBoo80lA5GQlNaVmrjSDTYdS2N0MD1BKsZyH5doNVZgHWNwi7fA5YzeYjJmwR4IxwmqLM6TUg7aYzo-f73dvWJLzPVJGSKMAhima4mYMxon/s1600/flag1.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgI4ogd6oOvXWY5H124Y5hVzLnXte1k8XTydBoo80lA5GQlNaVmrjSDTYdS2N0MD1BKsZyH5doNVZgHWNwi7fA5YzeYjJmwR4IxwmqLM6TUg7aYzo-f73dvWJLzPVJGSKMAhima4mYMxon/s320/flag1.bmp" /></a></div><div align="justify">Happy Summer! And while enjoying your freedom to worship, play and love under the sun, don't forget to take a moment to remember <em>so </em>many who gave their lives for us, our children, and our children's children. </div><div align="justify"><br />
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</div><div align="justify"><em>Photos courtesy of Google images.</em></div>Pamela Bousquethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933486351538669537noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6866993381487441183.post-92215434686359788482010-05-21T19:39:00.002-04:002010-07-06T10:33:42.190-04:00"What's Wrong With The World....and Does It Matter?"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwkwKpaVqzCAawR2NHW_o3maYLhJ8FIM7zp9Sf9O7cYPpOol5UBP08b8rbC6ods0tApXXaOKooez_vpwqW6MqM1To_a6aNFKk4d0hC5APAaDGQLk_RjKWFQ7BqJR96ygfuoiK9iZyz2FDn/s1600/earth+question.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwkwKpaVqzCAawR2NHW_o3maYLhJ8FIM7zp9Sf9O7cYPpOol5UBP08b8rbC6ods0tApXXaOKooez_vpwqW6MqM1To_a6aNFKk4d0hC5APAaDGQLk_RjKWFQ7BqJR96ygfuoiK9iZyz2FDn/s200/earth+question.jpg" width="136" /></a>You might have noticed that I've been away from the page for a few weeks...sorry! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Call it Writer's Block if you want, but I really <u>did</u> need some time “away.” Honestly, I've been too engrossed in my own problems, worries and issues to even think about writing something upbeat and positive.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">So what brought me back to the page on this particular day? Actually, I've been mulling over the decision to get back into a “semi-healthy” writing habit all week.... it was today's morning news I caught while getting ready to head out that fed my desire to pull out my laptop again. Blasting out at me from the television were the latest efforts to clean up the oil spill in the gulf, mounting financial concerns in Europe (and throughout the entire world), stocks plunging in America, the U.S. unemployment rate back up again, gas prices soaring, and new concerns with the volcano in Iceland. I wondered out loud <em>...“what is going on?”</em></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Listening to all this, my emotions were assaulted by an over-whelming realization – it's clear that many, many people are NOT happy. Not happy with our leadership, health care, our financial situation(s), environmental issues, communities, the list is <em>huge</em>. And it's not just outside our own back door – our entire global community is suffering. It seems like everyone I know is complaining or hurting in some way. Well, maybe our media makes it seem much worse – it always appears as if there is nothing good to report or talk about in the media these days.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Our parents used to have a saying: <em>“the world is going to hell in a hand-basket.”</em> I used to laugh at this little snippet of pessimism, but I've found myself actually thinking this same sentiment a couple times over the course of the last few months. Now, I certainly don't intend to sugar-coat current events and the impact such things have on us. However, I do know that dwelling within them is not healthy. If we're not willing to look beyond the dark and dismal pictures placed in front of us every day, our communities, our nation, our world <em>will not heal</em> – ever.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">My youngest boy who is 17, actually brought up these same feelings and emotions this morning as we drove to school. Talking about the latest impact to the environment in the gulf he said... "man - what's going on, mom? It's like everything is falling apart!" Wow. We forget our kids are noticing this – <u>all </u>of it. We may think these teens are too caught up in their friends, dating, and just having fun, but in reality – they <em>are</em> watching. I agreed with my son – I told him that I, too, had been thinking lately that “the world was going to hell in a hand-basket.” But then I tried to share something with him that would hopefully remind him that there still remains a great deal of good - and good people - in this world, and that bad times won't last forever.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I reminded him that I personally don't believe God “causes” bad things to happen to us and the world, but we are given opportunities to rise above these periods of hardship and pain. What we <em>do</em>, and the <em>decisions we make</em> during those moments of extreme challenge, upheaval, and even unimaginable pain is what ultimately matters. This happens to us as human beings on personal levels, as well as within our local and expanded communities.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Like many other periods in history, we continue to move through the valleys and peaks of light and darkness. For any period of happiness and content we might experience, there is also a time of sadness and pain. It may sound trite, but without enduring upheaval and strife, none of the people who inhabit this earth could possibly understand what peace or contentment mean. Doesn't matter whether you're rich or poor....on a fundamental level, we <em>all </em>know and feel the difference between peace and pain. Though many of us may not have actually experienced these notable periods, the people of earth have survived and overcome terrible odds. The “Great Depression” of the 1930's brought our country to it's knees, while the global economy also suffered immense loss and progress was crippled. World War II had a negative impact on each community, every country of the world in some way – and we were forced to become more aware of our global connection to each other. During each crises, I can only imagine the fear and loss of hope that those who actually lived it might have felt. But people pulled together, learned to rely on one another - sometimes on a global level- and continued to believe and search for the good in the world.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">My point is this – we've been there before. And each time our country or world has endured extreme adversity, hatred and even death, we've survived and come back stronger. As individuals, we experience these lowest moments deep within our souls. A former spiritual advisor of mine once referred to our lowest periods of faith as our “desert moments.” Again, it never matters whether you are Protestant, Hindu, Catholic, Jewish, Muslim, or any of the numerous faith traditions of the world - we <em>all</em> have experienced and will experience moments where we think our faith has left us, or is tested. But when we rise – and we will – that renewal of strength and faith is stronger than what we might previously have believed.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Pretty big “pill” to swallow, isn't it? That we have to endure these tough times? Having the bad news thrown in your face on a daily basis doesn't help, I know. Whether it's the front page of the local newspaper, the news source on your I-phone, or the 6 o'clock news on television, we just can't escape it. And to top it all off, we're each dealing with our own personal demons, issues and situations. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCdDCEFc8lq2SIeRDu8-aDdYFn9yYLnhvvhwYsVh2DkGRRNxvvDJksB_sHqhnUZIUB2WF5wOI269WuTws40Zyo74chB108R_58eaF63wKxwpC8GaCEpwJGA1NKRyTUEz3mgE2tilHFD6ha/s1600/believe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCdDCEFc8lq2SIeRDu8-aDdYFn9yYLnhvvhwYsVh2DkGRRNxvvDJksB_sHqhnUZIUB2WF5wOI269WuTws40Zyo74chB108R_58eaF63wKxwpC8GaCEpwJGA1NKRyTUEz3mgE2tilHFD6ha/s200/believe.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">A key word for today: <em>Believe.</em></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u><em>Believe</em></u> that there are still good people around you, in your hometown, in your state, your country, around the globe. If you have a day where you feel you just haven't witnessed or felt any glimmer of hope or goodness from those you've come in contact with, strengthen your belief by choosing to <u>search out</u> stories of people reaching out beyond themselves, performing random acts of kindness, or love unconditionally.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u><em>Believe</em></u> that the best is yet to come. “That which does not kill me makes me stronger.” Current events are exactly what they are – <strong>current</strong> events. This too shall pass, and another day will dawn.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><em><u>Believe</u></em> that you can be anything you want to be. Each of us, by doing one small thing each day CAN make a difference, make a change, have an impact. If everybody thought that it “wasn't worth it” to write a letter to their congressman, or “it doesn't matter” if I donate $1.00 to this charity, or “my presence at this meeting” doesn't matter – we all know that nothing would ever change. <strong><em>Change is a collective effort – the act of complaining about someone else's actions or lack there-of never produces results.</em></strong> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u><em>Believe</em></u> that Angels are among us...and <strong>YOU</strong> just might be one of them. Take time to notice those around you who have made an impact in your life, and recognize their presence. Remain open to the possibility that even your smile or “hello” could lift the heart of another.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I don't know about you, but I feel better now...</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We may not have seen our darkest days on this planet, but I'm confident in the innate goodness of humanity and our common goal to love and be loved. Really, what else matters?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">As citizens of such a large planet, we are spread thousands of miles apart with cultures and customs so incredibly different from each other. Yet we are still very much the same - we all feel pain, but we all have a <u>tremendous</u> capacity to love.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Yep, the “world may be going to hell in a hand-basket,” but I am now reminded that my personal worries are just a minute speck of dust in the millions of emotions floating around this world. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">A better day IS coming, for all of us – </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong><u>I Believe</u></strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Words and music by Erwin Drake, Irvin Graham, Jimmy Shirl, Al Stillman</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I believe, for every drop of rain that falls, </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">a flower grows.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I believe that somewhere in the darkest night, </div><div style="text-align: center;">a candle glows.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I believe for everyone who goes astray, </div><div style="text-align: center;">someone will come, to show the way.</div><div style="text-align: center;">I believe, I believe.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I believe above the storm the smallest prayer </div><div style="text-align: center;">will still be heard.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I believe that someone in the great somewhere </div><div style="text-align: center;">hears every word.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Every time I hear a newborn baby cry, </div><div style="text-align: center;">or touch a leaf, or see the sky, </div><div style="text-align: center;">then I know why I believe! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I believe above the storm the smallest prayer, </div><div style="text-align: center;">will still be heard.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I believe that someone in the great somewhere, </div><div style="text-align: center;">hears every word.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Every time I hear a newborn baby cry, </div><div style="text-align: center;">or touch a leaf, or see the sky,<br />
then I know why, I believe! </div><br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=weEHup6xp0Y"><object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/weEHup6xp0Y&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/weEHup6xp0Y&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object></a><br />
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<strong><em>Pay it forward - spread a smile!</em></strong><br />
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Photos courtesy of Google images.Pamela Bousquethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933486351538669537noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6866993381487441183.post-5636088168229885502010-05-11T10:50:00.001-04:002010-05-11T10:50:33.561-04:00Been on "hiatus!" Returning soon.....bless you all for your patience!! :-)Pamela Bousquethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933486351538669537noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6866993381487441183.post-63899094253136970602010-03-17T16:41:00.000-04:002010-03-17T16:41:11.218-04:00"Ah, The Wearin O' the Green..."<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrZ9f_3E6TiDaoWHtGABpew8rl_P_36rBcDIl4Kd9A5Hl2SbnaetGHpQexDHyfC8Ei7UVpjE7RltRLE4Ow8n29XJ1FEYZGTDRySbnqPfaJYbv13QKrn8jeopa8JGn5Y0-4izKM8hb0ZhuY/s1600-h/happyStPatricks.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrZ9f_3E6TiDaoWHtGABpew8rl_P_36rBcDIl4Kd9A5Hl2SbnaetGHpQexDHyfC8Ei7UVpjE7RltRLE4Ow8n29XJ1FEYZGTDRySbnqPfaJYbv13QKrn8jeopa8JGn5Y0-4izKM8hb0ZhuY/s200/happyStPatricks.png" vt="true" width="194" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Did you ever notice how so many people thoroughly enjoy getting into the spirit of this popular holiday? At school today I was amused and cheered to see how many high-schoolers were wearing green, quite a few of them really getting into out-doing each other with <em>crazy</em> leprechaun outfits or died hair!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Personally, I think part of the appeal of our “Americanized” St. Patrick's celebration is where it falls within the seasonal calendar. Temperatures are beginning to warm up (pretty much throughout the continental U.S.), and everyone is more than ready to shed the dark colors and heavy sweaters of winter. With Easter only a few short weeks away “spring fever” is taking hold, and it seems that everyone is looking for an excuse to celebrate the end of winter and just – <em>break out</em>.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKPUyIVwoQktRxbqIXPOEYFTukTEdv8xH1PlvSCabK-rei6quH4zB0UB_z52l2Y1AkX1xzOuByrdaD3FfgZp4shQZQPSeNyfBtyqaQLHBMb8C4crn3DcNTHrJ-LRYW_29VgyrkdLhODppW/s1600-h/st-patrick.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKPUyIVwoQktRxbqIXPOEYFTukTEdv8xH1PlvSCabK-rei6quH4zB0UB_z52l2Y1AkX1xzOuByrdaD3FfgZp4shQZQPSeNyfBtyqaQLHBMb8C4crn3DcNTHrJ-LRYW_29VgyrkdLhODppW/s320/st-patrick.jpg" vt="true" /></a>Originally a feast day for a beloved Catholic saint, St. Patrick's Day brings a whole lot more to the American Public these days than just the “wearin o' the green.” Numerous cities and towns across the U.S. host parades and festivals, with most local bars and taverns offering some form of Irish beer (or beer died to various shades of green). With so many opportunities to party, who <u>can't</u> love St. Patty's Day?</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">America has been touched heavily by the Irish, with many relocating here in the seventeen and eighteen-hundreds, slowly migrating across the continental United States by wagon train. Many families can today trace their heritage back to at least one Irish ancestor, and those of us who can't still like to think they're just “a little bit” Irish! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Indulging in the customs and traditions of the holiday, anyone can be Irish for the day. Dreaming of green hills, thatched-roof cottages with flowers at the window, and the commraderie of a small village at a local pub, we imagine a land of eternal spring as our snow melts and seasonal rain showers begin.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp42GvdBrEY7UIM8zfn-gFS7_iu2UIxUe2YYfPlzNUtKiXx1KDoO5SYmuACFFyO-zfGr0PHkEZ9sM5_ZPEU2Ffpj7ejkc261mEF9vR4gRTohI9Yzi7nMv3FZoNELBDUstE-4akMe-9xy9q/s1600-h/st20patricks20day.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp42GvdBrEY7UIM8zfn-gFS7_iu2UIxUe2YYfPlzNUtKiXx1KDoO5SYmuACFFyO-zfGr0PHkEZ9sM5_ZPEU2Ffpj7ejkc261mEF9vR4gRTohI9Yzi7nMv3FZoNELBDUstE-4akMe-9xy9q/s200/st20patricks20day.jpg" vt="true" width="200" /></a>Some might consider the holiday useless and frivilous, but the fact remains that St. Patrick's Day brings a smile to many a face as we anticipate the burst of color and renewal brought with the return of Spring. </div><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>When Irish eyes are smiling, </strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong><br />
</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>Tis like a morn in spring. </strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong><br />
</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>With a lilt of Irish laughter </strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong><br />
</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>You can hear the angels sing </strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong><br />
</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>When Irish hearts are happy </strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong><br />
</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>All the world is bright and gay </strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong><br />
</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>When Irish eyes are smiling </strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong><br />
</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>Sure, they steal your heart away.</strong> </div> <br />
<strong><u>Irish Eyes</u></strong> <br />
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<em>- Song, by Chaucey Olcott and George Graff, Jr.</em><br />
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<em><strong><span style="color: lime;">Pay it forward - spread a smile!</span></strong></em><br />
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<em>Photos property of Google Images</em>Pamela Bousquethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933486351538669537noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6866993381487441183.post-65389905949592581582010-03-12T19:46:00.003-05:002010-07-06T10:34:19.712-04:00"Dirt Therapy"<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyIj6cA1iI1VxLT_IymCKUeE8gbUtBNI1ORuttAEJl5m29aOzNznHUlYe7PCXhjwdWgTOK8P3KOlexr_bFzhVf4IOCTFHbPF2S7QG7J2qTHB38nOkS5Xb3jfA6m6Iqm-4ZL80UJmv9zNYr/s1600-h/small+rake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="151" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyIj6cA1iI1VxLT_IymCKUeE8gbUtBNI1ORuttAEJl5m29aOzNznHUlYe7PCXhjwdWgTOK8P3KOlexr_bFzhVf4IOCTFHbPF2S7QG7J2qTHB38nOkS5Xb3jfA6m6Iqm-4ZL80UJmv9zNYr/s200/small+rake.jpg" vt="true" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I'm ready to go back outside! The beginning of this week brought Spring into North Georgia with warmer temperatures and clear, blue, sunny skies. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We immediately headed outdoors to begin the annual “Spring clean-up” around our house, raking leaves and generally clearing away the debris and muck left over from a late winter snow. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">While my husband started the cutting and treatment of the lawn for it's new Spring growth, I began the arduous task of raking the dead leaves and over-growth from around the walls of the house and from under the trees and bushes surrounding our large and partially-wooded lot. It took us almost all day to complete these projects, but we enjoyed the fresh air and the sun on our skin as we plugged away with a common purpose.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The last few weeks of winter being rather gray and gloomy, it was a particularly beautiful day. The smell of damp and freshly-raked earth brought through open windows on a sunny breeze was intoxicating and tempting. It was evident that many in our community were experiencing the thrill of finally leaving their dark interiors to herald the new season. Amid the birds were the sounds of mowers, tractors, clippers and saws; dogs barking; children calling and laughing. Greetings were shouted across neighboring yards with smiling faces in a spirit of vitality and good-will.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSqw8MwIhjkDF1k6dehnPvQbSOj5c6eKbwtu_BAjN1Y2myCz6N8inGe5m3ZrfRZs_FMvG2FOs-f78UmI954u-Ca4A5KShvSdWu_RtnDDs7O4dJr6dxttpaz1CAif6bT3SCwT1ijOKcZe_R/s1600-h/crocus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSqw8MwIhjkDF1k6dehnPvQbSOj5c6eKbwtu_BAjN1Y2myCz6N8inGe5m3ZrfRZs_FMvG2FOs-f78UmI954u-Ca4A5KShvSdWu_RtnDDs7O4dJr6dxttpaz1CAif6bT3SCwT1ijOKcZe_R/s200/crocus.jpg" vt="true" width="146" /></a>After transporting all the leaves and brush to a clearing prepared for burning - and putting the tractor and tools away – I stood on our back deck to survey our handiwork. Sore, filthy and tired, I still felt energized and happy. Some people may not be able to truly appreciate the joy and satisfaction that comes from working amid dirt and plants, and I understand that it's probably just “not their thing.” I, however, thrive in this environment and always feel better when I've had time to spend digging in the dirt again. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I've discovered over the years that while home-ownership demands a good deal of responsibility, I really don't mind the work required in maintaining the outdoor portion of our home. For no matter where we live – whether it be a ranch consisting of hundreds of acres, a home in the middle of suburbia, or a small brownstone within city limits - the area surrounding and entering our home is an extension of our personality and the life within. </div></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Physical work of any kind permits us an opportunity to clear our minds and bodies of stress and fatigue, the oxygen clearing away the cobwebs in our brain. Though energizing, I always find myself more relaxed and in better spirits when working outside in the yard or flower beds. Yes, it can be a real hassle to try and keep up with weeds, over-grown shrubs and grass. But if we take the time to enjoy the personal solitude incurred while performing these tasks, those moments become a time of reflection, meditation, or prayer … all in the midst of nature.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">A well-known chain of landscaping nurseries in the southeast has a slogan that I have loved for years: <em>“Come play in the dirt again!”</em> Like a child, I need not worry about what clothes I'm wearing, whether my hair is messy, or how dirty I get when working outside. Focusing on nothing but the task at hand – whether pulling weeds or the repetition of hoeing or raking – I totally let go of any stress or worries plaguing me at the moment. As my mind becomes clearer I begin to commute with God, the conversation progressing as though He's standing and working right beside me. I almost always find myself singing (in my head, or sometimes out loud!), offering my notes to heaven.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It really is the best of two worlds for I gain valuable prayer, meditation, and alone time while accomplishing an important job. No spa or retreat-center required. (although, occasionally my muscles might be screaming for a massage afterwards!)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvE84hJZqo0dUGlWOxe8W0DwQa9pUHhpN2qKjmC4LemxJxVkZBrRgjc9Qz5aYUbitpr6gGaVkc2Xdw_Ng4321On9VfCyUxuaHRtjFCQkhpnDv-PiMZ9hb6FFtAI0s4ePsNt1F1PupipUz1/s1600-h/snowdrops.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="134" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvE84hJZqo0dUGlWOxe8W0DwQa9pUHhpN2qKjmC4LemxJxVkZBrRgjc9Qz5aYUbitpr6gGaVkc2Xdw_Ng4321On9VfCyUxuaHRtjFCQkhpnDv-PiMZ9hb6FFtAI0s4ePsNt1F1PupipUz1/s200/snowdrops.jpg" vt="true" width="200" /></a></div>I'm looking forward to Spring kicking into high-gear. I can't <u>wait</u> to get back out there and do some more cleaning and planting. Far from finished, we have a small garden to prepare and more to clear away. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><strong>The kiss of the sun for pardon,</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong></strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong><br />
</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>The song of the birds for mirth,</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong><br />
</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>One is nearer God's heart in a garden</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong><br />
</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>Than anywhere else on earth.</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>~Dorothy Frances Gurney, "Garden Thoughts"</em></div><br />
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It's not just the work and the end-result I'm looking forward to... <em>it's the therapy</em>!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
<strong><em>Pay it forward</em></strong> this Spring – maybe by taking care of the small piece of earth around you - in return, you'll receive so much <u>more</u> than beautiful blooms!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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<em>Photos property of Google Images, Washington Post & Stock Photo</em></div>Pamela Bousquethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933486351538669537noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6866993381487441183.post-11587680470928523062010-03-04T21:03:00.002-05:002010-07-06T10:35:05.063-04:00"How To Be An Angel..."<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtWPYhZmwPGSg8X9TNrERI5rFU4uZisb9Pj2ck65Z5V09FCXA8o8rsMnO-5bKykTTsXK7wT8eyMSXySfaAWg1yJdXP76nybERDNywhwLoaqf17I7cl0uydCeWqfMUJ2xGBz_-sVUAWuDGN/s1600-h/roger-ebert-jaw-cancer-photo-esquire-0310-lg-thumb-240x290-17913.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtWPYhZmwPGSg8X9TNrERI5rFU4uZisb9Pj2ck65Z5V09FCXA8o8rsMnO-5bKykTTsXK7wT8eyMSXySfaAWg1yJdXP76nybERDNywhwLoaqf17I7cl0uydCeWqfMUJ2xGBz_-sVUAWuDGN/s200/roger-ebert-jaw-cancer-photo-esquire-0310-lg-thumb-240x290-17913.jpg" width="163" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I love modern technology. We added the “TEVO” service to our satellite/cable service last year, and simply put - it's amazing!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Since my husband and I don't watch a huge amount of television, this handy little service allows us to record the programs we do watch, and save them until a time when we can view them. (without having to deal with tapes or discs.) With the boys still at home, it's really handy when mom and dad are forced to watch something later on!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The other day I noticed that Oprah had a special guest on that my husband and I had recently been reading about. He wasn't quite ready to leave his home-office for the day, so I recorded the show so that we could watch it together. Oprah's guest that day was Mr. Roger Ebert, the famous movie critic (most notably of <em><u>At The Movies - with Siskel and Ebert</u>) </em>who has been battling Thyroid cancer since about 2005. Even though the majority of her show that day was to be on the upcoming Oscars, I was so glad that we had the opportunity to watch this particular piece together, because Roger Ebert's appearance was extremely inspirational, and it couldn't have come at a better time for us.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Because of the degree of Mr. Ebert's cancer, the entire lower portion of his jaw was removed. Many of you might remember what this gentleman previously looked like during the high-point of his career. The numerous surgeries he has had to endure have dramatically changed his appearance. What deeply impressed us was that his appearance is no longer as important to him, and Roger had no issues with being on television in front of millions of people, speaking through his wife and the latest in computer/voice technology.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">His entire career being the sharing of thoughts and opinions to millions of people, Roger can no longer communicate with his own voice, and no longer eat or drink. Accompanied by his wife Chaz, Oprah asked if Roger missed "eating." Chaz responded that he actually missed the bonding and camaraderie that occurs when sharing meals with friends and family. He now often watches his wife eat, vicariously experiencing the meal through her.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Even in the face of such hardship (which honestly, would crush the best of us) Roger Ebert exudes courage, strength, and peace. He has continued to find meaning and purpose in his life, not letting his unfortunate medical past and ensuing physical handicaps prevent him from taking part in life's special events – he's even attending this year's Academy Awards show. He continues to write movie reviews and news, as well as his personal journal and blog (see the links below). More importantly, Roger is determined to live his life in an attitude of Joy:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><em>"I believe that if - at the end of it all - according to our abilities, we have done something to make others a little happier and something to make ourselves a little happier, that is about the <u>best</u> we can do. To make others less happy is a crime; to make <u>ourselves</u> unhappy is where all crime starts. We must try to contribute Joy to the world. That is true no matter what our problems, our health, our circumstances - we must <u>try</u>. I didn't always know this, and I am happy that I have lived long enough to find it out." </em></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><em>(Passage read from Roger Ebert's journal by his wife Chaz on <u>Oprah</u>, Wednesday, March 3, 2010.)</em></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Roger had written this testimony down prior to the show, and as his wife read it aloud to the audience and viewers, it was obvious that it had deeply moved Oprah Winfrey. My husband and I looked at each other with tears in our eyes. This is a man who clearly knows why he is still here, and continues to courageously walk forward in that belief.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Even though their presence might come to us via the television, internet, mail or other form of communication, I firmly believe that God “places” certain people in our paths at specific moments in our lives. There are many definitions of what an angel is, but I personally believe it is a being(s) sent or placed to be near us at crucial times in our lives. My husband and I were immediately uplifted upon witnessing Roger Ebert's cheerful and poignant message, and I knew deep within that the two of us were meant to hear it together at <u>that</u> particular moment. For this reason, I not only believe that angels exist in the spiritual realm, but here on earth as well.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We might not actually consider a particular person an “angel,” but perhaps their presence or the manner in which they were introduced into our lives was indeed an angelic moment. Many would call this divine providence, and it's not uncommon for this to happen when we least expect it, often not even noticing that we've made a deep, spiritual connection with another. I'm quite certain that at some point in my life, I may have personally missed the signs that I had crossed paths with someone that touched me in this regard - or that I might have touched <em>theirs.</em></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq1K2RaocUrVlheT0kDx5uKtk7KXO6Tsz_YjJd0mznZFpAmPcWPjF9g6Kl6dxcJ_4SbfJqmQjqy3Nr_y9V0gJqhI5FyEsAXZSJ6-QiT6IedM0eolPtmW2L21NtO-CgHiVm88dOt6upgGhn/s1600-h/GeneSiskelRogerEbertRR01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq1K2RaocUrVlheT0kDx5uKtk7KXO6Tsz_YjJd0mznZFpAmPcWPjF9g6Kl6dxcJ_4SbfJqmQjqy3Nr_y9V0gJqhI5FyEsAXZSJ6-QiT6IedM0eolPtmW2L21NtO-CgHiVm88dOt6upgGhn/s320/GeneSiskelRogerEbertRR01.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Perhaps when we are at our lowest moments - when we are searching for guidance and any form of hope – our hearts are more open to recognizing those that come to us with angelic aid. It can be quite easy to ignore the fact that “someone” else might have played a part in our lives when things are going smoothly.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">While it's very important, taking time to “stop and smell the roses” doesn't necessarily mean that we should take time to relax and just enjoy being where we are. It can also mean taking time to notice those around us – even though they may have come into our lives only briefly – and appreciating their presence and connection to us at that moment.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Since I began this blog, I've found myself becoming even more attuned to those around me – even those that I “meet” on television or the internet. While writing, I'm opening my heart and soul to the page. Prior to putting a particular thought or idea to pen, I've almost always been struck with the realization that someone else has played an integral part in my feelings or experiences. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I'm certain that Roger Ebert has no idea that he touched our hearts so deeply yesterday, as well as hundreds of thousands of others. Sometimes the Lord places an angel in the path of <em>many... </em>it's up to us to notice and take heed of their message.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Sometimes God uses us, without us even knowing. <br />
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Perhaps <em>you</em> will be an angel today - bringing your own, very special gift of Joy to another who needs it - at <em>just</em> the right moment.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
<strong><em>Pay it forward - spread a smile!</em></strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;">For addtional information on Roger Ebert:<br />
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Roger's Journal / reviews:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://blogs.suntimes.com/ebert/">The Chicago Sun-Times - Roger Ebert's Journal</a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Guest appearance on Oprah:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.oprah.com/oprahshow/Roger-Eberts-New-Voice">http://www.oprah.com/oprahshow/Roger-Eberts-New-Voice</a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Esquire Magazine's Profile on Roger Ebert:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.esquire.com/features/roger-ebert-0310?click=main_sr">http://www.esquire.com/features/roger-ebert-0310?click=main_sr</a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><em>Photos property of Google Images & Esquire Magazine</em></div>Pamela Bousquethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933486351538669537noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6866993381487441183.post-40248101502430759672010-03-01T17:56:00.001-05:002010-07-06T10:26:12.067-04:00"Just Doing It"<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfQBXbU0zW5-W-TJPN0LB4G1sWluvkYPyzZwAWbGQBN10I-d0QRPOdkgVCRdFnx2gkpuG-ziYRwqhCt3TLGXQwQdXGPU0Thfj5yzKVaGcPCRA0J9v6KqQrfBYriU3715KM64bbcedw3sbS/s1600-h/feb+blog+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfQBXbU0zW5-W-TJPN0LB4G1sWluvkYPyzZwAWbGQBN10I-d0QRPOdkgVCRdFnx2gkpuG-ziYRwqhCt3TLGXQwQdXGPU0Thfj5yzKVaGcPCRA0J9v6KqQrfBYriU3715KM64bbcedw3sbS/s320/feb+blog+006.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Walking – it “does a body good” - so why am I <u>not </u>doing it more often?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We've all been told of the numerous health benefits of walking for at least 20 minutes every day. Whether we choose to take a stroll indoors or out, the activity not only rejuvenates our body, but our mind. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I've been giving myself a <em>lot</em> of excuses lately on why I don't want to get on my treadmill. Even though I've started this new aerobics class and attend two to three times per week, I know that I should be filling in the days I don't attend with a walk. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">“I'm not a morning person” <em>(therefore, I “can't” wake up earlier to squeeze in 20 minutes);</em> “I'm tired and brain-dead after work” <em>(therefore, I “deserve” to relax when I get home);</em> “I'm still tired and now full” <em>(after eating dinner – therefore, why start now?)</em>...can you tell where I'm heading here?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We've all fallen victim to this kind of habit – where we talk ourselves into (and out of) things or situations we just don't feel like dealing with at the moment. Truth is, most of the time the final “outcome” of what we're trying to accomplish is something that will ultimately be GOOD for us! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I know that I will feel energized and more clear-headed if I walk. I know that I will drop those extra pounds much faster (and my jeans will fit even better!) if I walk each day. I know what all the benefits are and can be, so why do I choose to ignore them?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I finally bit the bullet and signed up for the low-impact aerobics class, and while it's broken the ice and gotten me out of the house with a good friend, I haven't completely bought into the idea of making this concentrated activity a good habit. For that's what it needs to become – a habit. Thinking that I was just “lazy” I would berate myself again and again each time another week without exercise went by. Now that I've started doing something – taking the class for instance, I know that what I really needed to do – to get out of the rut - was <em>take the first step</em>.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">How many of us (particularly during bad weather!) fall into those ruts? Before you know it, just the decision we make to remain there has become a bad habit! This is why so many self-help gurus have suggested that taking the first step is always the hardest. While the decision to change many not be difficult, the action required to actually DO something requires effort. Once we've taken that first step – performed the necessary EFFORT to break a current cycle – the rest becomes easier.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Deep inside, I'm desperately waiting for warmer weather. So many of us get caught up in the winter and bad-weather "blues." The perpetually gray and wet scenery doesn't do much for <em>any </em>persons' mood. I long to don my I-pod and venture out into clear skies and sunshine....but what's stopping me from listening to great music now, and <u>visualizing</u> sunny skies and warm beaches? Nothing. Absolutely nothing. It occurs to me that often times the biggest step in undertaking any sort of change is changing our attitude. If my attitude going into a new decision or endeavor is in any way negative, change will just not happen. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">My "state of mind" has improved greatly over the last several days, which has helped me physically feel much better (read my previous post <a href="http://adoseofpositivity.blogspot.com/2010/02/spiritual-battles.html">"Spiritual Battles"</a>) I'll be heading out to aerobics class shortly, so I'm looking forward to regaining some energy and momentum. Georgia is slated to (possibly) get rain and sleet again late this evening and tomorrow morning, so I'm hoping the sunny skies we just enjoyed, and my re-newed sunny disposition can <strong>stand firm</strong>! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">NOW I understand where Nike got their slogan: <em>“Just Do It”</em></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Here's hoping that we all can take a first step at something today. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Whether it be to exercise, change a habit, take a new class...</div><div style="text-align: justify;">try something new and <strong><em>pay it forward!</em></strong></div>Pamela Bousquethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933486351538669537noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6866993381487441183.post-34237226136989210622010-02-25T22:35:00.004-05:002010-07-06T10:35:56.926-04:00"In The Blink of An Eye"<div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFKlhzJLZgNWKl9Z22ico4DDf5aVDgV0tcJBbPsCOTzr5XcyE4d6JSI6mkSuwkNeFMUh7Hoy44MVJg8yD20bXE-LEBPVj4-bFksP0Yti7zsdB0mtjcreHwAm2HNR2llUk2bQqMuJIqsqX4/s1600-h/2009+Dec+23,+24+003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFKlhzJLZgNWKl9Z22ico4DDf5aVDgV0tcJBbPsCOTzr5XcyE4d6JSI6mkSuwkNeFMUh7Hoy44MVJg8yD20bXE-LEBPVj4-bFksP0Yti7zsdB0mtjcreHwAm2HNR2llUk2bQqMuJIqsqX4/s320/2009+Dec+23,+24+003.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>My boys have become young men.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It happens in the blink of an eye....and it's <em>so </em>easy to forget that God "gives" our children to us for only a short time. It's our destiny as parents, for ultimately we must release each child into the world to fulfill <em>their </em>destinies. <br />
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The "Empty Nest" syndrome is quickly approaching our household and believe me, I'm <u>very</u> aware of the impending transition. Our eldest son has completed college, has a fantastic computer/I.T. position, and recently began house-hunting. Actively searching through the numerous deals that exist in the housing market at present, he's attempting to take advantage of the federal tax credit for first-time buyers before April. Our middle son completed culinary school, is a chef for an amazing company, and is hoping that it won't be much longer till he follows his brother out the door. The youngest has one year of high school left, but knew in his heart several years ago that he would be beginning his career with the U.S. Navy after graduation. In less than a couple years, they will all have flown the nest.<br />
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I've already known in my heart that this change in my life (and that of my husband) will be bittersweet. It sounds cliche', but the two of us have already had fun and lengthy chats about what we'll see and do when the boys are gone. Twenty years ago, I never would have thought that it might seem exciting. After all - my kids are <em>everything</em> to me.<br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSkzv7ettRXC7bG7726khmDMjouM9ujd9-WohkCHZAXbm1k0Gn9Ggg9ZrPAyL4MOZ7yej1d6YikPQco5gz4jejkltmAmbpF5A29nJ65T1Z_-YcOj_cv-6YF7-Vdbfl-JVKxMnPZIeiy9nS/s1600-h/112.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="277" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSkzv7ettRXC7bG7726khmDMjouM9ujd9-WohkCHZAXbm1k0Gn9Ggg9ZrPAyL4MOZ7yej1d6YikPQco5gz4jejkltmAmbpF5A29nJ65T1Z_-YcOj_cv-6YF7-Vdbfl-JVKxMnPZIeiy9nS/s320/112.jpg" width="320" /></a>I've come to understand and cherish the idea that this will be an entirely new and exciting time in our life together as a couple. Exciting because it will be un-chartered territory again. However, unlike the very beginning of a marriage - where there is still so much to learn about each other - we'll now be able to get to know, understand and experience more of the <em>world...</em>together.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div>I'm writing of this today because I've been earnestly counting my blessings, and this morning my heart was touched with the thought that we can always begin with the gift of our families. In good times and in bad, they are a constant. Even though we have difficulties in getting along with or understanding each other, live miles apart, or might <em>still</em> be getting to know each other, each member of our family has profoundly affected us.<br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I'm sure there are those in the world who would find it extremely hard to agree with this. There are many who have led less than perfect childhoods or have faced extreme pain and hardship somewhere within their family structure. While I certainly haven't felt their sadness, I can understand how it would seem impossible to give thanks for someone that may have left a scar upon their heart and soul. Perhaps, in those instances, it might be possible to give thanks for what one might have <em>learned, </em>and appreciate that the past doesn't always have to determine our future and ultimate personality.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc9aYVy_wZWBYW-FkReqhhML2kMq0wiOO2CCmOpeq09aRfHxuFOfcafJasHJiiYD45pY4C1v_vqxsBjy_syVDVJv21WC1ZDptvQgiVk3EiREjXmR_wPLabxP3Aopy5hR-iEYPmLjJHeXlQ/s1600-h/122.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc9aYVy_wZWBYW-FkReqhhML2kMq0wiOO2CCmOpeq09aRfHxuFOfcafJasHJiiYD45pY4C1v_vqxsBjy_syVDVJv21WC1ZDptvQgiVk3EiREjXmR_wPLabxP3Aopy5hR-iEYPmLjJHeXlQ/s320/122.jpg" width="214" /></a>I'd be the first to tell you that my boys aren't perfect. That I haven't been the perfect mother, perfect wife, perfect daughter. Not one of us can say we've been a "perfect" brother, sister, father, aunt, uncle, step-parent, grand-parent.....perfect <u>anything</u>. Yet, while usually unspoken - <em>family</em> accepts this - warts and all, unconditionally. </div><br />
It usually takes many years for us to fully appreciate and understand how our families help shape us into special and unique individuals. Watching my boys become men is allowing me at this point in my life to understand this cycle and the wisdom that comes only by witnessing the process of their maturity... an experience shared by my parents, and their parents before them.<br />
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I'm excited now, waiting on their next steps as they face adulthood head-on. Full of hope and ambition, the possibilities for each of them is limitless. Though we still worry at times about whether they might fall or stumble, what a thrill and blessing to watch each of them become an active, contributing, and caring member of our world.<br />
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I'll miss their presence within these walls that have watched them grow...seen them cry... heard them yell...felt their laughter...<br />
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But the thrill and pride of witnessing their first flight.....<em>priceless</em>.<br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Although mom will be crying, many<em> </em>of those tears will be of pride and Joy. It's a perfect example of what <em>bittersweet </em>actually means - for joy and sadness sometimes really do occupy our hearts at the same moment. </div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">For now, I'm finding extreme Joy in the gift of being <em>mom</em> to three young men. What a blessing to just be a <u>part</u><em> </em>of that - learning to love them as adults - <em>continuing </em>to love them as my sons.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSZ1XHgZBDArj56pBGKaEO0-6s3PlRahEwfxzrQ-xkEks9eYaZl9doc2F_E1HNo-cv1yWayMFnx70ldYcb2thw3KSmgA7bVDHY9O5-Ge6PrIoC4DcO6YbL10QYdKa-p-zjeW5XWmM3u97Y/s1600-h/HPIM3136.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="cssfloat: left; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSZ1XHgZBDArj56pBGKaEO0-6s3PlRahEwfxzrQ-xkEks9eYaZl9doc2F_E1HNo-cv1yWayMFnx70ldYcb2thw3KSmgA7bVDHY9O5-Ge6PrIoC4DcO6YbL10QYdKa-p-zjeW5XWmM3u97Y/s320/HPIM3136.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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<em>"Children are not things to be molded, but people to be unfolded."</em></div>- Jess Lair (Inspirational Author)<br />
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<strong><em>Pay it forward - spread a smile!</em></strong><br />
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</div>Pamela Bousquethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933486351538669537noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6866993381487441183.post-45142241081808717682010-02-23T17:52:00.001-05:002010-07-06T10:36:28.094-04:00"Spiritual Battles..."<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJPMdjOvmpYmOCPqntYOtIXcpCrnuCk1t1xLHLdF2yWkb3t3j2tNliq7wP99evInVri3gsIHa0d6GzZ5MU8KsWOqpgm1eDXf1BGdABjwHDQ-y8PUodxQPmDM6-AEjruXOY4bi2gkDWq5F8/s1600-h/faith-wallpaper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ct="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJPMdjOvmpYmOCPqntYOtIXcpCrnuCk1t1xLHLdF2yWkb3t3j2tNliq7wP99evInVri3gsIHa0d6GzZ5MU8KsWOqpgm1eDXf1BGdABjwHDQ-y8PUodxQPmDM6-AEjruXOY4bi2gkDWq5F8/s320/faith-wallpaper.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Have you ever begun a new project – particularly one that you sincerely hope will be of service or joy to others – only to be met with some sort of obstacle or negative energy?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I've actually experienced this several times throughout my life, and you would think by now that I would be tuned in to when I've let this enemy slip into my daily efforts and thoughts. I pose this problem as a person, because I firmly believe that he – "Satan," "the evil one," "the devil," "Beelzebub," "negative energy," "the dark force," (whatever you want to call it) – really exists, and in order to recognize and defend ourselves from the enemy, we must put a name to it and face it.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Surprisingly, it didn't occur to me until just this morning that my husband and I were facing this kind of “spiritual warfare” yet again. The devil has attempted numerous times to infiltrate our lives as a loving couple and tight-knit family unit. “Attacks” might seem like an extreme word to those who aren't familiar with wht the sneaky and furtive tactics of the devil can really mean, but I firmly believe that this is how he operates. Unless you are constantly on guard, feeding and nurturing the garden of your own faith, before you know it he has slipped into your life - interjecting negativity, hopelessness, anger and hatred into situations where you normally would stand strong in clear and proper judgment.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">That's how he works. Personally, I don't believe the devil brings down plagues, earth-quakes, financial ruin or death. Because God has given us the gift of <em>free will</em>, the ability to make our own choices and decisions in dealing with what life hands us, we unfortunately have the ability to choose unwisely. And that's just what the “devil” is pushing us to do. While he probably didn't cause us to loose our job, wreck the car, or put someone else in a bad mood, he does try to “push the buttons” that cause us to react to these moments with negativity and without love. Then, he tries to keep us there – mired in the darkness of self-pity, doubt, fear, and hatred – away from the light and grace of love, peace and Joy.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I've previously written that our family has experienced some major hardships this past year. In a nutshell, over the last week our situation has continued and become worse. I admit this to you only to support and explain my recent absence from the page; it truly has become a battle for me and my family, and I apologize. While I can't read the future and still don't have all the answers, I <u>have</u> made additional discoveries and insight into why I've reacted to recent situations the way I have, and why my family continues to suffer.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Over the last several years, I've found that I am getting really good at directing my anger towards <em>dirt</em>. I'm not sure if my boys have really figured this out yet, but when I've been hit with yet another piece of bad news or situation beyond my control, I start to clean. Rather than screaming, I try very hard to just “get mad at the dirt,” and go around the house taking care of items that may not have been tidied up in a while. Not only is this kind of simple work therapeutic, I've realized it's one thing that I have “control” over. Usually after several minutes of vacuuming or dusting, my heart will start speaking to God, and I'll use that time to converse with Him about how I'm feeling. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">My house is very tidy at the moment. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">However, I've (we've) been bombarded with so much lately, that the cleaning hasn't totally eased the unrest and nervousness within my soul, and I let myself slip into a bit of depression. I literally haven't been able to focus, let alone write about anything “positive.”</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It's become obvious to me that I've let Satan enter into these moments, and have let my “guard” down. We all used to come together pretty frequently for family prayer – particularly when we'd had disagreements or were concerned for other family members, etc. We also took time to give thanks for the joys and blessings we received.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">You see, the devil doesn't <em>want</em> us to spend time in God's presence. When we choose to give thanks in all things, when we choose to focus on love and what's right in the world, <em>Satan has no entry</em>. It can be so easy to let ourselves slip into despair and apathy – we've all experienced these moments – after all, we're only human.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Upon the celebration of Ash Wednesday last week, our family signed up to participate in several activities during the Lenten season, designed to strengthen our devotion and faith during this time of preparation before Easter. Because of recent events, our desire to take part in <u>anything</u> has been very low, to say the least. Being very active in our faith community, we've encountered the devil's obstacles and attacks each time we've begun a service project or joined in any kind of activity meant to increase and strengthen our faith in God. I now see that Satan has tried to use this opportunity to break us, and keep us from fully experiencing God's love and mercy.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">My positive message today? I'm not going to let it happen - I won't let Satan win. I'm not saying it's going to be a piece of cake, but it's possible. Life can and must continue. I can choose to continue to see God's Blessings around me each and every day. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><em>"Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase."</em></div><div style="text-align: justify;"> ~Martin Luther King Jr.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
Even amidst great tragedy, we can continue putting one foot in front of the other, day-by-day, week-by-week, year-by-year. By doing so life brightens before us, most times without us even realizing it. I was struck by a report on the early news this morning as I got ready to head out to work. Joannie Rochette, an Olympic figure-skater for Canada (their national champion as a matter of fact), found out only 2 days ago that her mother had died of a massive heart attack after arriving in Vancouver. This young lady has made the courageous decision to compete tonight, in spite of her tragedy and loss, knowing that her mother had been her biggest fan and supporter. It's not just a matter of willpower (although it helps). We have to continually <em>practice</em> trusting in God – His light is there to surround each step of our difficult journeys – all we have to do is ask Him to join us. We can find Joy in the fact that he will never leave us. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Though our options might not always seem clear, we always have a choice. Sometimes it seems so much easier to take the easy way out, by not doing "anything." Letting things be while we sit and stew about what we've done wrong, or who's wronged us, or the blows that life has dealt us won't carry us forward. While a good cry, cleaning the house from top to bottom, or maybe pounding out our frustrations on a construction project will help release the tension and stress we're feeling, eventually, we must continue on. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We can always find light and love in moving forward. By allowing Satan and his negative forces to creep in, we are slated to remain in the dark.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Asking the angels, saints, and those that I love to pray for me, I will strive to continue to live as though each day were my last. Surrounded by that much love, how can I go wrong? </div><br />
Oh, and something else the devil doesn't like?<br />
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Paying it forward.<br />
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<strong><em>Pay it forward – spread a smile!</em></strong><br />
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<em>Image courtesy of Google Images.</em>Pamela Bousquethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933486351538669537noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6866993381487441183.post-32497954549413691102010-02-10T10:09:00.010-05:002010-07-06T10:37:14.280-04:00"Only God Can Make A Tree"<div><div><div align="justify"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjviu9F2tXwrHJKNoeqWWjL9Xxt0c-7RhldV8t0NQ1sGwXCenJ6aE9DrmLYmFFlEkhc13C3Fsp1fB2nzymFlaguV3y00fBLw63xh3xe42usVkngZQoNfSpg8xqgn8toZz7uv9PejMuClbmA/s1600-h/trees+017.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436425157314679490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjviu9F2tXwrHJKNoeqWWjL9Xxt0c-7RhldV8t0NQ1sGwXCenJ6aE9DrmLYmFFlEkhc13C3Fsp1fB2nzymFlaguV3y00fBLw63xh3xe42usVkngZQoNfSpg8xqgn8toZz7uv9PejMuClbmA/s320/trees+017.JPG" style="cursor: hand; float: right; height: 320px; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; width: 240px;" /></a>I've been staring at trees again. At first it was because I was missing their summer fullness – their green, warm-weather foliage blowing softly in spring and summer breezes. I love trees...the different shapes, heights, variety of leaves, those that flower – those that don't.<br />
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Recently driving through the local countryside on a wet, gloomy day – and we've had a lot of wet, gloomy days this winter – I realized how much I still enjoyed those same trees without their covering of green.<br />
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Without the thousands of individual leaves covering each branch, each tree reveals another side to it's personality. Bare of any covering, we are allowed to view the form and structure of each branch, each limb, each trunk...as they taper off into differing directions towards the sky.<br />
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Some trees are massive – those who have weathered decades of changing seasons - their bark showing signs of age their limbs curling in every direction as they continue to mature. Others are young and strong, their trunks straight – the bark still unmarked by time and nature.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixE-gCOlRe62IoG9ul-TKAcw_kyXaXdhTbC4wa4XEAknm0ZImh23fVIVtno_wORFBnFEF8E-gcxPalOBnK4URt69aF1kU7OKFePnqyF2_60ROqGwdN4ckvE-I3XCeYBgaI9je0MbdllFNp/s1600-h/003.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436425788719052274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixE-gCOlRe62IoG9ul-TKAcw_kyXaXdhTbC4wa4XEAknm0ZImh23fVIVtno_wORFBnFEF8E-gcxPalOBnK4URt69aF1kU7OKFePnqyF2_60ROqGwdN4ckvE-I3XCeYBgaI9je0MbdllFNp/s320/003.JPG" style="cursor: hand; float: left; height: 240px; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 320px;" /></a>I find them extremely moving and emotional. Even in the bleakness of winter each tree reveals an inner view of it's growth, maturity and wisdom to me. I find myself wondering what these trees have witnessed of humanity.... Forests that have come and gone; children playing and growing beneath them; perhaps travelers on foot, stopping for a rest in the shade of their branches. Growing weary of the browns, grays, and muddy colors of the winter, I have found a new way to appreciate their stark and unusual beauty.<br />
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Reviewing what I've just written, it seems as though I might be describing people. When stripped of all foliage - whether full and colorful or sparse and dull – we're all pretty much the same underneath. A straight or stooping posture, smooth or furrowed brow, and number of gray hairs permits us a glimpse of the wisdom and experience of another soul.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYlP6j856VUHybHrM2E1L8mNth_adiAnzZI9aYFRQYQhTo8b_uAmhB6Kg-6E3WGt10n1PUnQPuhNcVu23LomGFMphEDxy6XyTV5lVwS1PQRm9mO3Mi-DPtPCu9bb3bbJ0eYaJRBiZgfS4Y/s1600-h/phone+feb+2010+131.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436426415566843970" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYlP6j856VUHybHrM2E1L8mNth_adiAnzZI9aYFRQYQhTo8b_uAmhB6Kg-6E3WGt10n1PUnQPuhNcVu23LomGFMphEDxy6XyTV5lVwS1PQRm9mO3Mi-DPtPCu9bb3bbJ0eYaJRBiZgfS4Y/s320/phone+feb+2010+131.JPG" style="cursor: hand; float: right; height: 320px; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; width: 240px;" /></a><br />
Like trees our roots grow wider and deeper with time – strengthened during periods of balmy weather, we are empowered to withstand the storms life surely will bring. Each experience, each encounter we make is an opportunity to put down another root.<br />
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Call me a “tree-hugger,” but trees make me smile. Even on the gloomiest of days I can look at a tree and witness its beauty, as it reaches toward heaven reminding me of the strength and power that lies within. </div><div><br />
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</div><div align="justify"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLer-2vsajwB8PFyVmk2R7J8Oxe3iZq8_rzrN3V2xyNEl0gzzA6sk4pCv723mu_TxyDA7-sln8IVXLvkIzrD0l79PIyK08kx8qgkCU_P3Vc0JsR4uoIS0yHFrCkQMA1vyJRbuT2vZjqsrx/s1600-h/Dan's+swamp.jpg"></a><br />
<em>I think that I shall never see<br />
A poem lovely as a tree.</em></div><div><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsO7iAldbypCKQy7wHXZeW11iGmClR4WQmPIla4xHcPQ-7qNwzn5Ge8RuFTYT-Fs1pS2OsGjEGBqPNKV7vhyDZKpnyQ4VjcUeV4g9ZSiDVBUjeVStImf4LfCTUN2qKhTkhtvybgOmKq8vv/s1600-h/phone+feb+2010+127.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436428909622490194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsO7iAldbypCKQy7wHXZeW11iGmClR4WQmPIla4xHcPQ-7qNwzn5Ge8RuFTYT-Fs1pS2OsGjEGBqPNKV7vhyDZKpnyQ4VjcUeV4g9ZSiDVBUjeVStImf4LfCTUN2qKhTkhtvybgOmKq8vv/s320/phone+feb+2010+127.JPG" style="cursor: hand; float: left; height: 320px; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 240px;" /></a></div><div align="justify"><em>A tree whose hungry mouth is prest<br />
Against the earth's sweet flowing breast;</em></div><div><br />
</div><div align="justify"><em>A tree that looks at God all day,<br />
And lifts her leafy arms to pray;</em></div><div><br />
</div><div align="justify"><em>A tree that may in summer wear<br />
A nest of robins in her hair;</em></div><div><br />
</div><div align="justify"><em>Upon whose bosom snow has lain;<br />
Who intimately lives with rain.</em></div><div><br />
</div><div align="justify"><em>Poems are made by fools like me,<br />
But only God can make a tree.</em></div><div><br />
</div><div align="justify"><em><u><strong>"Trees"</strong></u> - Alfred Joyce Kilmer, 1913</em></div><div><br />
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</div><div align="justify"><em></em></div><strong><em></em></strong></div><div><strong><em></em></strong><br />
<div><em>(Pictures property of Pamela Bousquet)</em><br />
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</div><div align="justify"><em></em></div></div></div><br />
(posting originally appears on "Writer's Rising")<br />
<a href="http://writersrising.blogspot.com/"></a><br />
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<b><i>Pay it foward - spread a smile!</i></b>Pamela Bousquethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933486351538669537noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6866993381487441183.post-1911104105080473082010-02-04T19:11:00.016-05:002010-07-06T10:37:55.971-04:00"If You Just.....Smile"<div align="justify"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtJ5ruRMrPDOlUHlLMLYyx3B9uz1x4SClaB40NKKPhIq6DHZz95OwfBfBddWNHRvOcLuxFcNHKuzA6MkQMjsbLMdYDi_4Ao7xMN3McyXYEXjyJwbjjqn5m-0p3Csxr8eaPhpXnjJYiwer0/s1600-h/smile33.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434545549896651330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtJ5ruRMrPDOlUHlLMLYyx3B9uz1x4SClaB40NKKPhIq6DHZz95OwfBfBddWNHRvOcLuxFcNHKuzA6MkQMjsbLMdYDi_4Ao7xMN3McyXYEXjyJwbjjqn5m-0p3Csxr8eaPhpXnjJYiwer0/s400/smile33.jpg" style="cursor: hand; display: block; height: 389px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
Yes – I know...it <em>is</em> rather obvious that I haven't been here of late, isn't it? I have a confession to make...I have not been in a very positive frame of mind.<br />
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The reasons why are really not important, and if I listed them here they would only come through as excuses for not putting any thoughts to pen ( or “computer!”) Suffice it to say that I have been dealing with the blues, feeling a little poorly due to health, and just generally suffering from the “winter doldrums.”<br />
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I've already told myself that it's normal to experience periods like this. For me, this is particularly true during the winter months, when I am forced to wait out the cold weather indoors, cloistered away from the sunshine and fresh air. We get a <u>lot</u> of rain here in the south during this time of year, but on “the bright side” it sure beats snow and ice!<br />
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Pulling ourselves out of any sort of depression can truly be a test of willpower and spirit. Most of us have and will continue to struggle with moments such as this throughout our lives and I would be lying (at this site devoted to positivity!) if I didn't admit that I, too, have moments of sadness and self-doubt. The trick is knowing when that sadness or a period of the blues is more than we can handle alone. If we find that changing our surroundings, eating habits, exercise routines, or other crucial needs aren't enough to break the cycle of darkness we're feeling, then it's time to seek outside help and assistance. Doesn't necessarily mean that you have to immediately enlist the aide of a licensed psychiatrist – it can start with a simple visit to your regular doctor, where they can help you decide if additional medical treatment is warranted.<br />
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I have continued to attend the aerobics class I began in January, and have discovered that I'm really starting to feel better after each class. Just the proper breathing – getting that oxygen to move throughout my body – is probably working wonders for me. (not to mention, I'm beginning to notice the tiniest little bit of room again in my jeans!)<br />
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Aside from the exercise and asking God daily to <em>remind</em> me that He's always by my side, I made another decision of self-help this morning - to <em><u>smile.</u></em> While I may not actually be using my facial muscles to form this expression on my face continuously (that would be impossible), I made a decision to try and “wear” my smile internally - even though I might not be feeling particularly happy at the moment.<br />
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It's worked.<br />
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Even though I felt that I was “pretending” to be cheerful (in the beginning), I found as the day moved on that because other people reacted so kindly to my attitude, that <em>my</em> attitude changed. I really began to feel better. I've attempted to practice this “theory” several times before in my life – and have noticed great results each time. However, today was the first time I made myself remain completely <u>aware</u> (all day) of what I was doing to extend a cheerful and positive front. Even though I definitely didn't feel like it when I first got up this morning, by the end of the day, I felt better.<br />
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By choosing to be cheerful and kind to those I met and worked with today, they reacted in kind. It transfers so easily: On my way in to work this morning, I was stopped at a particularly busy intersection, waiting to make a left-hand turn. Another driver, in on-coming traffic was also preparing to make a left-hand turn. Rather than continuing on, he stopped and flashed his lights at me in order to let me turn into traffic. As I passed in front of him I smiled and waved in thanks...and <em>he</em> smiled and waved back. Before I knew it, I really was in a much better mood and state of mind. Even at our low moments we have a choice – an opportunity – to be happy.<br />
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Thinking back over my day of changing outlooks, a particular song popped into my head (which often happens to me....tunes are forever “popping” into my head!). This piece was written in 1936 as a theme song for a now-famous silent movie. Not too much information is available on exactly how the composer was feeling when these words and music flowed from his heart, but the lyrics are still <em>timeless, </em>and pretty much sum up those sentiments I've shared with you today:<br />
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<strong><em>Smile, though your heart is aching,<br />
Smile, even though it's breaking.<br />
When there are clouds in the sky-<br />
You'll get by.</em></strong><br />
<strong><em><br />
If you smile through your fear and sorrow,<br />
Smile and maybe tomorrow<br />
You'll see the sun come shining through<br />
For you.</em></strong><br />
<strong><em>Light up your face with gladness,<br />
Hide ev'ry trace of sadness.<br />
Although a tear may be ever so near,<br />
That's the time you must keep on trying,</em></strong><br />
<strong><em>Smile, what's the use of crying?<br />
You'll find that life is still worthwhile,<br />
If you just smile. </em></strong><br />
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<strong><u>"Smile"</u></strong><em> </em></div><br />
<div align="justify"><em>- music & lyrics attributed to Charlie Chaplin</em></div><br />
<div align="justify"><em>1936 - <u>"Modern Times"</u></em><br />
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Sometimes, a little smile <em>is </em>all it takes – to not only lift the spirits of those around us, but to lift ourselves from an otherwise dark and lonely place.<br />
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I hope the smile I found today makes it's way to you!<br />
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<strong><em>Pay it forward - spread a smile!</em></strong><br />
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<em>Image courtesy of Comments Yard.com</em> </div>Pamela Bousquethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933486351538669537noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6866993381487441183.post-72778956189048561322010-01-26T18:33:00.008-05:002010-07-06T10:38:22.910-04:00"Friends - One is Silver, The Other Gold..."<div align="justify"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-SR3uvcC1lPEpTBOxJPHAwMqkncNkrWFvdjLvkIvdEP79TYCtWvFFfW-3X9EsraNkbGR5xc254iV-KVLtwiDd8bC3NF4dUUoDYIGreUAz-ip8QIYrYERbtEz4FZDSpZhxEHrt-6riRyWD/s1600-h/Me+%26+Amy+circa+1980.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431201764010181682" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-SR3uvcC1lPEpTBOxJPHAwMqkncNkrWFvdjLvkIvdEP79TYCtWvFFfW-3X9EsraNkbGR5xc254iV-KVLtwiDd8bC3NF4dUUoDYIGreUAz-ip8QIYrYERbtEz4FZDSpZhxEHrt-6riRyWD/s320/Me+%26+Amy+circa+1980.jpg" style="cursor: hand; float: left; height: 320px; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 92px;" /></a>Ah, nostalgia. I believe I'm beginning to understand the real meaning behind the phrase <em>“it is better to have loved, and lost, than to never have loved at all...” </em><br />
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To me, this statement doesn't encompass just those romantic loves we've experienced in our lifetimes, it also holds true in other friendships and relationships. We've all met people who have chosen to remain “closed off” from making close connections with others. Perhaps it is because of some past hurt or (worse) a traumatic event in their lives - they remain adverse to opening their hearts and themselves to not only love, but the infinite possibilities of <em>friendship</em>.<br />
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Perhaps people in those lonely situations don't really understand what they're missing...for they rob themselves of so many opportunities. From an early age, our friendships help in the molding and formation of our ultimate personalities.<br />
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In forming friendships we travel through various stages – needs - if you will. It's almost like buying and collecting shoes. (Girls, I'm sure you'll get the analogy!) We can buy a lot of shoes in our lifetimes. Some of those shoes are collected for “specific” purposes – you might have a pair for running or exercise, several more just for “dress”, a couple for bad weather days, those you wear just for work, and old ones for working in the yard and getting dirty.....(you get the idea!)<br />
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Our friendships are similar – and each of them are important to us for many reasons. Like our shoes, it's not unusual to grow away from certain friendships. Doesn't necessarily mean it was a “bad” relationship. We grow, we change – we are meant to constantly evolve. People we met and became close to in college may not continue to have the same interests we do after leaving school...those we meet while our children are babies, toddlers, then school-age, follow different directions as their children grow and change...individuals we've worked with might leave for other opportunities...and neighbors move. Like an endless cycle of ocean tides, friendships will eternally pass <em>in</em> and <em>out</em> of our lives. Sometimes leaving small, unseen impressions upon our heart, other times leaving profound imprints that permanently – and forever – change us.<br />
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Even though I have been extremely blessed with many, many friends throughout my life, I still occasionally experience moments of loneliness. We all do. Why, I don't know. It's at those vulnerable times that I let nostalgia take over my thoughts, and I let myself float back in time to happy days spent with best friends. You know the ones I'm speaking of....like the favorite pair of comfortable, old slippers or flip-flops, those are the friends that no matter what age you are, no matter what stage of life you're in, no matter where you live, or how long it's been since you've seen each other, they <em>still fit</em>. You "get" each other, and you know that when meeting again, you could carry on just like you'd never left or lost touch.<br />
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Years ago, I would have let that nostalgia just take over my heart, ending in nothing but a pity party, dreaming of “days-gone-by.” With age, I've discovered that those memories and most special friends bring warm smiles and healing laughter to my soul. I know I was blessed to have even <u>had</u> them in my life at all.<br />
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The dearest and closest friend I ever had (other than my husband!), I moved away from when I got married 26 years ago. Though miles apart, I still consider her the best friend I ever had – for she not only shared the best (and certainly the <em>craziest!)</em> of times with me...she knew my faults, my gifts, my quirks, my fears, my endlessly rosy look upon the world....she understood me. She just – <strong>got</strong> me, and I got <em>her. </em>We could tell each other anything, and felt comfortable enough in each other's presence that we could be or act like anything we wanted to. Instinctively, we knew when each other needed support, or needed constructive criticism. More importantly, I could screw up – she could screw up – yet we continued to forgive each other's failings, and could always move on.<br />
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Because we are separated by so many miles – she's in the great white north, I'm in the deep south – we've (unfortunately) only been able to visit each other a few times. (Funny how time, money and distance can keep you apart!) Yet I know that if I picked up the phone today and called her, or showed up on her doorstep, our friendship would pick up right where it “left off.” Though each of us has matured and moved in different directions, (and I just described our friendship in the “past-tense”) this old shoe remains as comfortable, as “stylish,” as fresh as the day we found it!<br />
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While thoughts of her and our experiences together are sometimes bittersweet (for I do miss her terribly at times)... I regret nothing, and wouldn't change a thing. I realize that our friendship really taught me <em>how</em> to be a good friend. Forming new friendships, acquaintances, and pals since then, I've discovered that each is unique and <u>special</u> in their own right. Some have lasted for years, some for short periods of time, some briefer still. But I count them <em>all </em>as friends.<br />
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<em>“No man is a failure, as long as he has friends.”</em> <em>(Clarence in "It's A Wonderful Life") </em>Just knowing that you are loved – and understanding how special it is to share that connection, even if only briefly – is a gift.<br />
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I dedicate this posting to ALL my friends....the old ones, the new ones...the ones I don't see very often, the ones on-line, the ones I see all the time! Some of us have a “history,” some of us share similar interests or hobbies, some of us worship together, and some of us may still be getting to know one another. When feeling down, or sorry for myself – I don't have to search for <u>my</u> dose of positivity too hard. God has Blessed me with each of you, and you all have played a part in who I am and continue to be...I'm so very proud to call you <strong><em>all </em></strong>my friends!<br />
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To <strong>“Keets:”</strong> words are never enough. You are a part of who I was yesterday, today, and yes – even <em>tomorrow</em>! Guess that's how the term “soul sister” came into being! I'll love you <u>forever</u> - remember I've always got your back...<br />
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I'd like to close with (probably) my favorite childhood song - I first learned it as a Brownie (at about the age of six) in the U.S. Girl Scouts, and we sang this "round" near campfires throughout my years as a Girl Scout:<br />
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<strong><em>“Make new friends, but keep the old...one is Silver and the other Gold.” </em></strong><br />
<em>Girl Scouts U.S.A. - campfire song</em><br />
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Pretty much says it all, don't ya think?<br />
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<strong><em>Pay it forward – spread a smile!</em></strong> </div>Pamela Bousquethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933486351538669537noreply@blogger.com1