Today my friends children decided they wanted to open a lemonade stand with all proceeds going to Alex's Lemonade Stand. For those of you who do no know her remarkable story, please log onto http://www.alexslemonade.org/ . I just do not feel qualified to tell her beautiful story.
In the daily grind of our lives there should always be time to pause and remember just how lucky we really are. Sometimes the universe in all its glory talks to us in different ways. It can leave suttle hints or hit us so hard we can barely get up.
For me, today it was the big hearts of children. I walked around the corner today which I will admit I cannot remember the last time I did that. I seen friends I have not spoken to in awhile. I just wanted to give to the cause that for a brief moment made me smile. I have learned the hard way recently to hold on to those precious moments.
Although Alex is gone, her legacy remains in the smiles, hopes and dreams come true for billions because of her heart.
I just wanted to say, " Thank you ".
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Friday, May 13, 2011
Education Never Stops
We live in a world full of different races and religions. Separated by continents. We all have thoughts, feelings and patriotism for our countries. Does this separation really make us different? I learn a lot everyday from you. I have tweeted with people all over this world. Some nice, some opinionated and some malicious. Who is right and who is wrong? Although we live in different nations most of us have one common bond. We are human.
Recent events drove me to write this. Osama Bin Laden was killed by US Navy Seals. I am a very open minded person but not on one subject, “Terrorism“. On 9/11/2001 I woke up to the noise of my whole family in my living room. I went down stairs to see what was going on to find out that a plane hit the Twin Towers. Then the news quickly flashed on the Pentagon saying another plane had hit that too. In disbelief of what was going on I could not take my eyes from the TV. As I was watching still, I noticed another plane that looked too close to the buildings and said something to my family. They stopped talking and watched. Another plane had hit the twin towers. You could see firefighters and police running in the buildings as people were running out. Time seemed to slow down. My eyes glued to the TV, they showed the buildings crumble down, one by one. Human beings running for their lives. My house was silent. The next image was just dust. Later, they reported a plane went down in Pennsylvania.
This happened because some psychopath decided they did not like everyone in the US. He thought we all should die. Do you think he was right? Thousands of human beings died that day. They woke up that morning, told their families they would see them later and went to work. Does that sound familiar? They were not armed. Had no agenda further than their job. These human beings never returned home. Would you feel differently if Al-Qaeda did this to your country, your people?
I have listened to a lot of opinions. I myself have mixed feelings about him not being brought in alive. I was surprised at all the malicious, uneducated comments saying , “We deserved what we got“, “We did it to ourselves“. Make no mistake, we are not alone in fighting terrorism. They have been plaguing other countries all over the world killing innocent human beings. Are the people of the United States lives any less than yours? What makes your country so much better? Do not say your Legal system, as we all have issues. Do not say your politics, as that is the first complaint of every country in this world. Do not say your people, as we all have a few rotten fruit. The only thing separating us are invisible lines. That does not make you a better person or more human.
I never thought myself better than anyone. I am a middle class person just trying to get by in this world like everyone else. I care about people. I do not want to see anyone hurt regardless of race, religion or continent. I love animals. I do not want to see them hurt either. I just want you to know that 9/11/2001 has changed me forever. When I hear a plane, I do not stop watching where it is going. When I board one, I look at every single passenger. I cant help wonder if they are a terrorist. Sad, but I am not alone. I wonder everyday when they will attack us again. Where they will attack us again. I do not want to die. I do not want my family, friends or people to die. No human being deserves that.
I learn everyday from all of you. I hope you learned something from me. I respect opinions but not malicious or arrogant comments. I do believe in Karma, “What goes around does come back around”. Education Never Stops.
Recent events drove me to write this. Osama Bin Laden was killed by US Navy Seals. I am a very open minded person but not on one subject, “Terrorism“. On 9/11/2001 I woke up to the noise of my whole family in my living room. I went down stairs to see what was going on to find out that a plane hit the Twin Towers. Then the news quickly flashed on the Pentagon saying another plane had hit that too. In disbelief of what was going on I could not take my eyes from the TV. As I was watching still, I noticed another plane that looked too close to the buildings and said something to my family. They stopped talking and watched. Another plane had hit the twin towers. You could see firefighters and police running in the buildings as people were running out. Time seemed to slow down. My eyes glued to the TV, they showed the buildings crumble down, one by one. Human beings running for their lives. My house was silent. The next image was just dust. Later, they reported a plane went down in Pennsylvania.
This happened because some psychopath decided they did not like everyone in the US. He thought we all should die. Do you think he was right? Thousands of human beings died that day. They woke up that morning, told their families they would see them later and went to work. Does that sound familiar? They were not armed. Had no agenda further than their job. These human beings never returned home. Would you feel differently if Al-Qaeda did this to your country, your people?
I have listened to a lot of opinions. I myself have mixed feelings about him not being brought in alive. I was surprised at all the malicious, uneducated comments saying , “We deserved what we got“, “We did it to ourselves“. Make no mistake, we are not alone in fighting terrorism. They have been plaguing other countries all over the world killing innocent human beings. Are the people of the United States lives any less than yours? What makes your country so much better? Do not say your Legal system, as we all have issues. Do not say your politics, as that is the first complaint of every country in this world. Do not say your people, as we all have a few rotten fruit. The only thing separating us are invisible lines. That does not make you a better person or more human.
I never thought myself better than anyone. I am a middle class person just trying to get by in this world like everyone else. I care about people. I do not want to see anyone hurt regardless of race, religion or continent. I love animals. I do not want to see them hurt either. I just want you to know that 9/11/2001 has changed me forever. When I hear a plane, I do not stop watching where it is going. When I board one, I look at every single passenger. I cant help wonder if they are a terrorist. Sad, but I am not alone. I wonder everyday when they will attack us again. Where they will attack us again. I do not want to die. I do not want my family, friends or people to die. No human being deserves that.
I learn everyday from all of you. I hope you learned something from me. I respect opinions but not malicious or arrogant comments. I do believe in Karma, “What goes around does come back around”. Education Never Stops.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Patience
I have learned alot in the past few months. So I want to share some of my experiences with you. I am a bit of a hot head. I thought after taking care of my mom years ago before I moved that I learned some patience. That did not happen. I also sound like a truck driver with my mouth when I get mad.
I have told you in previous blogs that I have moved back to Philly from Chicago. When I got in town my dad who was my moms caregiver had a Hemorrhagic Stroke. I had to move in with them to take care of them and their house. Running back and forth to Dr's and hospitals. It really is a wake up call for anyone and more stress than you can imagine.
I have been fighting with Dr's, Nurses, and family the whole time. Trying to get some help from anyone. I cannot even tell you the language I have used. You would really be appaled at me. I have been tired and run down. Sick very bad twice. I have not been sick like that in years.
I did it to myself. Call it self infliction. One of those things that appall me about others. I finally sat down and looked at the whole picture. I was driving my husband nuts. Being mean to my parents. I was killing myself. That is not acceptable.
Instead of just speaking my thoughts which I must say that I am very good at that. I have since took another road. Thinking before I speak. I also am now taking some time for myself so I am not so irritable. I have always preached think before you speak and practiced it until I came back home. I took a step back again to make sure I am true to myself.
I will fight the world to protect my parents. Even from within. I know how hard it is to put yourself in a situation where you have no choice but to take care of your loved ones. They took care of us once. I think it is our duty to do so. Just think before you act. Take the smart road. Patience is the hardest virtue to learn but we all have it in us. Remember to take a step away to look at the whole situation. You will be surprised at what you can see.
I have told you in previous blogs that I have moved back to Philly from Chicago. When I got in town my dad who was my moms caregiver had a Hemorrhagic Stroke. I had to move in with them to take care of them and their house. Running back and forth to Dr's and hospitals. It really is a wake up call for anyone and more stress than you can imagine.
I have been fighting with Dr's, Nurses, and family the whole time. Trying to get some help from anyone. I cannot even tell you the language I have used. You would really be appaled at me. I have been tired and run down. Sick very bad twice. I have not been sick like that in years.
I did it to myself. Call it self infliction. One of those things that appall me about others. I finally sat down and looked at the whole picture. I was driving my husband nuts. Being mean to my parents. I was killing myself. That is not acceptable.
Instead of just speaking my thoughts which I must say that I am very good at that. I have since took another road. Thinking before I speak. I also am now taking some time for myself so I am not so irritable. I have always preached think before you speak and practiced it until I came back home. I took a step back again to make sure I am true to myself.
I will fight the world to protect my parents. Even from within. I know how hard it is to put yourself in a situation where you have no choice but to take care of your loved ones. They took care of us once. I think it is our duty to do so. Just think before you act. Take the smart road. Patience is the hardest virtue to learn but we all have it in us. Remember to take a step away to look at the whole situation. You will be surprised at what you can see.
Monday, January 3, 2011
Shooting the ****
I know its has been a while since I blogged. So much has happened. Right now I am the caregiver for two of my parents. It is very draining. Most nights I do not sleep because my dad is wondering around our house and I am afraid he will get himself in trouble. We are working very hard with doctors to rectify his sleeping habits. I got into a brawl with one of my sisters for not helping with my parents. I told both my sisters they need to step up to the plate because I am at my end now.
Still looking for a job in between the madness. I went on an interview where I was told that I am over qualified. Just made me laugh. Yes, through all I still have a sense of humor. I decided life is too short to keep worrying about it all. The guys with white coats might take me away if I do. Hmmm.... Maybe a well needed vacation. Yet on the news here everyday. We are told the economy and jobs are great again. I guess some people get sucked into the bull. Again I just giggle.
Tired of hearing about all the celebrity wows. Boo Hoo. Lindsey Lohan.....really not much more she can do to herself. So who is it this year that is going to cheat on there spouse? Bets anyone? Lets not forget about the million dollar weddings this year. I know that is important. Prince William and Kate. I like them both but that ring she is wearing is doomed. Just saying!!!
Well, I hope 2011 is a much better year than 2010 was for everyone. Hope is necessary to survive. I still believe and wish everyone the best.
Still looking for a job in between the madness. I went on an interview where I was told that I am over qualified. Just made me laugh. Yes, through all I still have a sense of humor. I decided life is too short to keep worrying about it all. The guys with white coats might take me away if I do. Hmmm.... Maybe a well needed vacation. Yet on the news here everyday. We are told the economy and jobs are great again. I guess some people get sucked into the bull. Again I just giggle.
Tired of hearing about all the celebrity wows. Boo Hoo. Lindsey Lohan.....really not much more she can do to herself. So who is it this year that is going to cheat on there spouse? Bets anyone? Lets not forget about the million dollar weddings this year. I know that is important. Prince William and Kate. I like them both but that ring she is wearing is doomed. Just saying!!!
Well, I hope 2011 is a much better year than 2010 was for everyone. Hope is necessary to survive. I still believe and wish everyone the best.
Saturday, December 4, 2010
CHRISTMAS DELETED
Over the years, I have heard how Christmas tree's offend people and the word Christmas. It has always been here in the United States of America. You are taking away my rights to celebrate my holiday. If you want to build and express your holiday. I am 100% behind you. You do not have the right to take my traditions from me. I it is my constitutional right to express my holiday as well as yours.
This country and our politicians need to open their eyes. I have never made a comment about anyone else’s holidays or tried to take them away. If we cannot celebrate our traditions as we have for many years in this country then you should not be able to celebrate yours.
It is ridiculous that we have come this far. Politically correct is an infringement on my rights as a US citizen. I pay my taxes. I was born and raised in this country and I have rights just like you. I am not telling you to stop your holiday. Leave mine alone.
Follow Philadelphia, PA example. We are the first to fight. There are many traditions that our lost in this country along with values. What are we teaching our children if we cannot support the foundation of our own country. : http://abclocal.go.com/wpvi/story?section=news/local&id=7820429
STOP DELETING CHRISTMAS
This country and our politicians need to open their eyes. I have never made a comment about anyone else’s holidays or tried to take them away. If we cannot celebrate our traditions as we have for many years in this country then you should not be able to celebrate yours.
It is ridiculous that we have come this far. Politically correct is an infringement on my rights as a US citizen. I pay my taxes. I was born and raised in this country and I have rights just like you. I am not telling you to stop your holiday. Leave mine alone.
Follow Philadelphia, PA example. We are the first to fight. There are many traditions that our lost in this country along with values. What are we teaching our children if we cannot support the foundation of our own country. : http://abclocal.go.com/wpvi/story?section=news/local&id=7820429
STOP DELETING CHRISTMAS
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Christmas Spirit
I want to apologize. This is the first time in a couple weeks I could take time to blog. Between moving from Chicago to Philly. My Dad having a stroke and taking care of my mom. Running between both. Not seeing my husband for weeks. I still have not finished Christmas shopping yet. It has been nuts.
I think this is a perfect time to talk about this subject. What is the Christmas Spirit? This time of year is sensitive to all of us. It does not matter where you live, how much money you have or what religion you are. Some how we all feel something stronger at this time of season. We cannot quite put our fingers on it. Looking at decorations. A persons face. We just see something more than what we see all year.
I went shopping the other day. I noticed that people were a little nicer. Holding doors for other people. Saying excuse me to get by. No tempers flaring. It was a nice change of pace for me. My patience have been worn thin from all the craziness in my own life. It finally made me stop and take a breath for a minute.
We all have bad things happen to us. Things we cannot control. It makes us feel helpless to the people we want to help. I needed to remember that I am surrounded by people who are just like me. We all have our problems in life. It is how we handle them that matters.
For me the Christmas Spirit is a moment in time to reflect and then pass on happiness to others. Saying hello to someone. Tell them to have a nice day or just smile. Remember, it is the little things in life that matter. You will be surprised at how far a good gesture will go. I am sending positive thoughts to all of you and a big hug to all that needs one.
Wishing you all Love, Happiness and Peace this Christmas Season.
I think this is a perfect time to talk about this subject. What is the Christmas Spirit? This time of year is sensitive to all of us. It does not matter where you live, how much money you have or what religion you are. Some how we all feel something stronger at this time of season. We cannot quite put our fingers on it. Looking at decorations. A persons face. We just see something more than what we see all year.
I went shopping the other day. I noticed that people were a little nicer. Holding doors for other people. Saying excuse me to get by. No tempers flaring. It was a nice change of pace for me. My patience have been worn thin from all the craziness in my own life. It finally made me stop and take a breath for a minute.
We all have bad things happen to us. Things we cannot control. It makes us feel helpless to the people we want to help. I needed to remember that I am surrounded by people who are just like me. We all have our problems in life. It is how we handle them that matters.
For me the Christmas Spirit is a moment in time to reflect and then pass on happiness to others. Saying hello to someone. Tell them to have a nice day or just smile. Remember, it is the little things in life that matter. You will be surprised at how far a good gesture will go. I am sending positive thoughts to all of you and a big hug to all that needs one.
Wishing you all Love, Happiness and Peace this Christmas Season.
Monday, November 8, 2010
The Long Road Home
This journey began five years ago when my then fiancée and now husband asked me to move to Chicago with him to further advance his career with his company. Now, I am a Philly girl born and raised. I am very close with my family due to my rock AKA- Dad. I was very hesitant about leaving everyone behind. I wanted to support my guy though. He said we would have a two year plan. Stay for two years and find a way to get back home to Philly. I told him yes and so began a new life in Chicago.
The first six months I was living in Chicago. Homesick really could not describe how I felt there. I missed everyone so horribly I did not know how I was going to get through day to day. We could only come back to Philly twice a year with vacation time. It is 800 miles between Chicago and Philly. I wanted to support my guy and stay positive for him. It was him that actually kept me positive. I think I was driving him nuts until I found a job there. It turned out to be the best job I had ever had. I was a Finance and Marketing Manager for a Travel Club. I worked directly with the owner and president of the company. Some how in the middle of working for and with such great people I began to like living there.
The area we lived in was very nice and clean. Chicago is absolutely beautiful during the summer. I had the best time boating on Lake Michigan. Navy Pier is a great place to visit too. We have friends that lived in the same complex as we did. That made it even better to be there. During the winter Chicago is brutal. It goes below 0 degrees there and it snows a lot. They do have the best snow removal I have ever seen but they did not clean my car off everyday. That was me. Chicago has very high taxes and is very expensive to live there.
A year and a half ago my life there began a downwards spiral. When the economy went bad so went my job. My company kept me on long after they should have so I was not surprised when I was laid off. I tried and tried to find a job there with no luck. My husband who is the most positive person I know was coming home miserable from his job. I did not know what to do or say to help him. I could not even help myself at the time.
I started interacting with some incredible people on Twitter. I was inspired again. Sometimes the littlest thing goes a long way. I started to Blog. Then it happened. We got the news that we both had been waiting for. The manager of my husbands Philly branch left the company. We acted very quickly to apply for that position and we were told the greatest words ever, “ You are going home to Philly”. I cannot tell you how quick we called our family. I think we broke records.
In those five years my husband and I have missed a lot and been through a lot. We have lost many loved ones. Our relationship together grew stronger. He is my best friend. I know that everything in life happens for a reason. I met good friends in Chicago. They made the last year bearable to get by.
I am finally here in Philly after 5 years and a 14 hour car ride. I was welcomed in style with my friends 40th birthday and a tricked out Limo that was a club in itself. I even had the best mommy moment ever when Russell Crowe tweeted my daughter back. To see her face was priceless. I know I have so much to do now. Find a job, find a place to live, and most important. I get to spend time with our family again.
This is where The Long Road Home ends. Now a new life begins.
The first six months I was living in Chicago. Homesick really could not describe how I felt there. I missed everyone so horribly I did not know how I was going to get through day to day. We could only come back to Philly twice a year with vacation time. It is 800 miles between Chicago and Philly. I wanted to support my guy and stay positive for him. It was him that actually kept me positive. I think I was driving him nuts until I found a job there. It turned out to be the best job I had ever had. I was a Finance and Marketing Manager for a Travel Club. I worked directly with the owner and president of the company. Some how in the middle of working for and with such great people I began to like living there.
The area we lived in was very nice and clean. Chicago is absolutely beautiful during the summer. I had the best time boating on Lake Michigan. Navy Pier is a great place to visit too. We have friends that lived in the same complex as we did. That made it even better to be there. During the winter Chicago is brutal. It goes below 0 degrees there and it snows a lot. They do have the best snow removal I have ever seen but they did not clean my car off everyday. That was me. Chicago has very high taxes and is very expensive to live there.
A year and a half ago my life there began a downwards spiral. When the economy went bad so went my job. My company kept me on long after they should have so I was not surprised when I was laid off. I tried and tried to find a job there with no luck. My husband who is the most positive person I know was coming home miserable from his job. I did not know what to do or say to help him. I could not even help myself at the time.
I started interacting with some incredible people on Twitter. I was inspired again. Sometimes the littlest thing goes a long way. I started to Blog. Then it happened. We got the news that we both had been waiting for. The manager of my husbands Philly branch left the company. We acted very quickly to apply for that position and we were told the greatest words ever, “ You are going home to Philly”. I cannot tell you how quick we called our family. I think we broke records.
In those five years my husband and I have missed a lot and been through a lot. We have lost many loved ones. Our relationship together grew stronger. He is my best friend. I know that everything in life happens for a reason. I met good friends in Chicago. They made the last year bearable to get by.
I am finally here in Philly after 5 years and a 14 hour car ride. I was welcomed in style with my friends 40th birthday and a tricked out Limo that was a club in itself. I even had the best mommy moment ever when Russell Crowe tweeted my daughter back. To see her face was priceless. I know I have so much to do now. Find a job, find a place to live, and most important. I get to spend time with our family again.
This is where The Long Road Home ends. Now a new life begins.
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