Wendy, Tory and Kaleb - Children's poetry awards ceremony (April 2007)

{A Poet named Kaleb}

We have a little poet in our family. His name is Kaleb and last year he took 3rd place for a poem he wrote on snakes. We entered a few poems this year and he took 2nd place for his
poem called "Radio."

This weekend, he’ll get to read his winning piece at the Community Center as part of the annual children’s poetry celebration put on by our city and the YMCA. Way to go Kaleb!

Below is his winning entry -

Radio
By Kaleb Christensen

Radios sometimes have pounding music
Slow melodies
Rockin’ rock
But sometimes your radio doesn’t work

Cheers to poets and their poems - and all things lyrical ... :)

April is national poetry month - grab some Shakespeare and feed thy soul

“Love is born. Everything else is learned.”
The Dalai Lama

We were in Seattle the same time as the Dalai Lama. He was there for a five-day event about teaching compassion to children and youth. I bumped into the above quote outside an art gallery in Pioneer Square and was completely touched by it. Once inside the art gallery, I was moved (again) by the art on the walls.

The Dalai Lama posed the following question: What does compassion look like?
And children from all over the world drew pictures and wrote about what compassion meant to them. Being there and seeing their art was a very great experience for me.

Have you ever thought about compassion and the impact it has on the world?
What would you draw/paint/sculpt or write to depict that word?

http://www.seedsofcompassion.org/

{Safeco Field in Seattle, WA}

Last weekend, my husband and I went to Seattle to watch the Mariners play baseball!
They won and it was a perfect night in Seattle!! You could see the moon above Safeco Field and the place was so alive with screaming, cheering baseball fans! I loved every moment of it …
(Especially the 7th inning stretch and singing "Take me out to the ball game"!)

Cheers to baseball and America!

:)

No, I didn’t have a hotdog or a heaping plate of garlic fries – I ended up with a big cup of Ivar’s clam chowder (pure heaven) and a huge glass of lemonade – yummy!

{Sweet Dreams}

I had a very interesting dream last night about my brother and Grandpa (both who have been dead for a long time). It was sweet and I like to think that the dream was their way of saying "Hi" and "I love you ... "

So Grandpa & Travis - I love you too!

{Who do you look like?}

You ever get that? People stop to tell you you look like so and so ... It happens to me every now and again! Below are photos of people I don't mind being confused as!

If you have not tried this site - give it a shot! You can morph yourself too.
:)

I just tried it on my husband and he's 66% Mark Harmon or Carlos Bernard.

My son Kaleb looks most like Margaret Thatcher ... Funny huh??!

{Take Me out to the ball game ...!}

My husband and I are taking a little romantic getaway to the wonderful city of Seattle ...
Part of the fun will include watching the Seattle Mariners play at Safeco Field!!
I can't wait!! :) I love baseball ...

Everyone keeps telling me I gotta try the garlic fries at the ball park ... Bring 'em on!

{Monkeys ... Elephants and Peacocks}

OH MY!!

It's spring break so to kick it off, we took a road trip to Tacoma, WA to visit the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium. It was such a great trip! We love the zoo! If you want to see a slide show from our adventure, I've posted a show below (enjoy).

PS: There were loose peacocks wandering everywhere ... Funny.

{You Are Not Lost}
*****
Are you a Michael Buble fan? I am :) - I love his voice and style.
This song is beautiful and has a wonderful message ...

Thank heavens for loving connections and the amazing ability we have
to help each other with the tough, dark days.

Happy Wednesday :)

{April 1st – a day to LAUGH til it hurts}

Today is one of my favorite days! Every year I look forward to April first…
Would you like to know the joke I played on my son?? OK keep reading –

Preface: Last Saturday night we came home late from seeing a play and my oldest son, Kade, spotted a skunk on our street. He said he saw it scurry into the bushes by the house next door. Oh no! That meant it was close to our backyard. We have a dog in our backyard (named Sadie) and she usually keeps all the wild critters at bay. I assured them that if the skunk did spray her we could wash the dog in tomato juice and supposedly that would take the awful skunk smell away.

My prank: This morning, I ran to my son’s room and told him to hurry and get up because something terrible happened in the night! “Hurry, help me gather all the cans of tomato soup and sauce!” I exclaimed!

“Why?” Kaleb said yawning.

“Sadie got sprayed in the night by that little skunk on our block,” I told him.

Kaleb is wide awake now!! We run upstairs (he is wearing his underwear only) to dump our 4 cans of tomato paste and sauce into the tub …. I burst into out of control laughter and say – APRIL FOOLS.

Then we both laugh til it hurts.

Cheers to today and laughing out loud….

For the record the jokes in the past have been even better than today’s. Ask my kids sometime about the dinosaur DNA and the T-Rex that was wandering down our street.
We still laugh about that one!!!

:)

{A Lighthouse}

by Kade Christensen, age 11

Last week, my son came home with a painting he did in art class.

I was in awe!

Thanks Kade for being you and adding your artistic flare to my life :)

I love you!!

The music is everywhere. All you have to do is listen ...

{August Rush}

We had our own little 'March Rush' today ... It snowed! It's spring so the snow was quite enchanting and very pretty! I did have to hurry out and save my flowers from the cold, fluffy, white stuff! Don't worry - they are safe (under the porch).

PS: Snowy days make me want to snuggle by the fire with a good movie! Do you feel like that too? If so, grab a copy of "August Rush" and enjoy a Friday night with a feel good movie ...
I loved this flick.

Hmmmm -

Feels like a marvelous night for a moondance ...
:)

{Let's get Wiggly}

YOU ARE INVITED:
Join us tonight at the Richland Public Library!
7:00 to 7:30 PM

PS: This show is family friendly!

** Bring your camera and get a photo with Wiggles the fish **

Wiggle girl fish by Jennie Stanfield

(I absolutley love her artwork) :)

Take 5 - OK if you want to watch the Enchanted 'Happy Working Song' keep looking down (:)))) Had a little YouTube madness this morning!! Happy Thursday to everyone :) ...

Glitch #4 ... OK something went wiggy with the 'Enchanted Happy Working Song' post and I woke up this AM with that song on my blog 6 times or something!! FUNNY :)

Glitch #3 ... (oh my goodness)!!

Glitch #2 ... :)

Glitch #1

{The Happy Working Song}



PS: I tried the ah ah ah singing out the window to call all the creatures and critters to come help me clean - In fact, I keep trying the ah ah ah but no one is showing up!! ***Cheers to Disney songs that help us GET the WORK DONE with a smile :)***

{A Time to Wiggle}

For the record, I’m not walking like an Egyptian … I’m doing a snakish slithery move!!

Our local paper ran a story about my husband in the paper yesterday. He recently released his first CD for kids called: “Wiggle Like a Fish” and we spent the last 6+ months sharing the positive feel-good music! Come on - get up and wiggle (like a fish) ... :)
Or slither like a snake!

If you would like to read the article, please visit the link below -
http://www.tri-cityherald.com/901/story/136119.html

PS:
This music journey has really been a fun adventure for our family.
We have ‘fish stories’ like no other!! :)
The big fish is part of the act - his name is Wiggles the fish and the kids LOVE him.

Cheers to positive music for families and kids!

:)

Wiggle Like a Fish website:
http://www.wigglelikeafish.com/

{Memories from the corners of my mind}
Of the way we were!

Amy, Wendy, Katie and Jennie
Easter Sunday - 1983 (ish)

Wendy and Amy - Easter Sunday 1976

While growing up, every year at Easter, my Mom would sew my sisters and me a new dress. Oftentimes, we had matching gowns.

PS: It’s the laughter we remember, the love and yes – all the beautiful clothes
handmade by mom.

Cheers to the way we were and who we are today!

Happy Easter :)

{Peeps}

Creamy, puffy marshmallow creaturs that are especially popular at Easter.
(Available in a variety of colors - shaped as bunnies and chicks).

I just walked in from gathering stuff to make Easter baskets for my kids!

PS:

It's tradition - At our house, you get Peeps for Easter!!

I think I'm going to use the above drawing instructions and
make some Easter Peeps cards - Too funny!
:)

Official peeps site -
http://www.marshmallowpeeps.com/

PROMO FOR AN EXILE IN PARADISE:The Adventures of Edward Lear

An interesting film/promo on the travels of Edward Lear ... I love all the stuff you can find and learn about via YouTube.

{A blessing on St. Patrick's Day}

"May the road rise to meet you,
May the wind be always at your back,
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
The rains fall soft upon your fields,
And until we meet again,
May God hold you
In the palm of his hand."

*******

Artwork by my sister, Jennie Stanfield...

{Weekly Rewind}
A note from the Director/Executive Producer

Top 3 list of great moments this week –
(Commentary added for additional insight)

1.
This is Miss Wendy your Substitute Teacher –
On Thursday, I had the opportunity to sub at my daughter’s preschool. One of the teachers went home sick so they called and asked me to fill in (not in my daughter’s class). I was able to meet 20 new kids who became instant friends. I went home with 2 adorable pictures from students – a heart and a rainbow. Special thanks to the kids who gave me lots of hugs, made me a (pretend) picnic lunch and for the invigorating game of ‘duck duck goose’ ….

2.
Mom, can I take you to lunch? -
My son Kaleb, was out of school earlier this week due to teacher/parent conferences so we had some time to hang out. His one request was to take me out to lunch to Dairy Queen for a shrimp basket. (He and I both love shrimp). So, on Wednesday … we went out! When it was time to pay, he dropped $5.00 in quarters, dimes and nickels onto the counter!
So suave and savvy - he’s my little Romeo!

3.

Slurping down the Shamrock Shake –
Monday, I drove by McDonalds and noticed the reader board alerting us drive-buyers that the shamrock shakes were NOW HERE. Did I get one? Yes, in fact the entire family got one! Those green drinks are beyond M’M’ Good! Get one.

Feel free to rewind and share your top 3 GREAT moments from the week!

Inspiration from the 'greens' of March
By Wendy Christensen
(Published in the Tri-City Citizen March 11, 2008)

Have you ever stopped to think about the colors that decorate our lives? I recently read an interesting article about the colors that surround us and the impact they have on our attitudes, actions and happiness. I learned that the color red has the amazing ability to add energy to our lives and that by wearing red, one can increase his or her happiness. This color discovery caused me to do a little reflection on the color green and the role it plays in the month of March. Be on the lookout! Green shows up everywhere and offers inspiration to all who stop and pay attention.

First, the winter begins to fade away and we see traces of spring in the leaves, grass and flowers. The garden section at local stores, have spring plants that beg for homes of their own. I usually grab a few to help them feel secure and I think they appreciate having a pot/place to grow and take root. These color spots add cheer to my home and it’s a way to celebrate the beginning of a new spring season. If I’m really lucky, the tulips make their entrance and add a flare to the yard as well. The color green in the leaves and plants remind me of new beginnings and renewed hope.

Second, the green garden hose and tools usually get pulled from the shed and find their place in the yard. Those of us lucky enough to have a desire to exercise the ‘green thumb’ muscles start to think about the garden and see images of green plants growing tall and boldly in the ground. The green tools and garden design ideas help me appreciate the ability I have to work and for the wonder of the earth, power of the sun and the miracle of seeds.

Third, shamrock shakes appear in local restaurants. I love the taste of this green, frothy drink which makes its entrance a week or so before St. Patrick’s Day. When the reader boards around town read: “Shamrock Shakes now here” I smile and know that its time for the entire family to get in line for the best green drink of the year! This particular green beverage inspires me to feel the luck of the Irish and to appreciate the diverse flavors and traditions of the foods and people around me.

Fourth, celebration items for St. Patrick’s Day can be found everywhere. Green plates, green napkins, green utensils, green St. Patty’s day buttons, green sunglasses, green drinks, green goblins, green clover fabrics, green roses, green leaping leprechauns, green t-shirts, and isles of green cards. The list of available St. Patty’s day merchandise grows larger each year. And every year as St. Patrick’s Day approaches, I feel thankful for our celebrating spirit and the abundance we enjoy in this country.

Lastly, green means GO. The green light at the intersection beckons drivers to step on the gas and move forward. I personally love to hit all the lights green (especially down George Washington Way in Richland). And these green lights cause me to smile and they signal my inner self to want to move forward in other ways as well. For me, the color green inspires knowledge, learning, life, vigor and new beginnings.

The next time you encounter green, learn from it and let it propel you forward.
Go with the green!

PS: Green will come in handy on March 17th –
don’t be caught without it or a pinching frenzy is sure to occur.

Wendy Christensen is a local writer and a publicist for Mapletree Publishing Company.
She can be reached via her website: http://www.littlemomentsthatmatter.com/

{The places we love …}

As a freshman at college, I remember having an assignment in my English class to write a paper about our favorite place. This place could be anywhere and our professor encouraged us to describe what it was about our place that brought us serenity, happiness and/or peace.

Back then, I wrote about my Grandma Call’s house in Afton, Wyoming. I described the gorgeous mountain behind her old farmhouse, my walks through her canyon, the smell of wheat, and my memories of family reunions, hay rides to the mountain and the endless supply of love that seemed to grow in the grass and trees. As a young girl, I learned to love this place – and that will never change. (see photo above)

If I were to write a paper today it would be about the walking path along the river. I have walked this path 100s of times – sometimes alone but most often with my mom, sisters or my husband and children. The banks of the river have an amazing way of helping me sort out life … one step at a time!! :)

What are the places you love??!

{Political GLOW}

You see that red light off the side of the above photo??! That's called the ahhhh haaa light of politics. :) That light was radiating from me when I arrived home from the County Convention (late tonight) and wouldn't go away!!! My kids were like - "Mom what did you do at that meeting?"

I told them they would need to serve as a delegate and they too could have the beautiful, red glow :) ...

For the record - I had a splendid time at the convention today. I was totally impressed by the day's events and all that I was able to learn and be a part of.

PS: I think my dreams tonight will be full of motions, votes and floating platforms!!

Good night ...

{Politics and ‘shut down’ mode}

Do you cringe when you hear the word politics? I find that many people do. This word (for some) carries a great deal of emotion, frustration, fear, and often causes people to withdraw from conversation or to go into ‘shut down’ mode. For others it causes outbreaks and vocal outcrys ...

Just so you know… shut down mode is when a person goes to their personal happy land and shuts the rest of the world out. (Exiting to happy land is a convenient and safe place to visit when life gets tough, boring and/or when political views are being discussed).
Are you in happy land now??! :)

One of my New Year’s resolutions was to get more involved in our local government process. This has been very interesting and a learning time for me. First, I will be attending the County Republican Convention tomorrow as a delegate. I’ll let you know how it goes! Second, I took part in a focus group last night with some friends and talked with a gentleman who is running for County Commissioner. It was a great night and we discussed where and how we want our taxes spent, ways to help fight crime, water use, concerns for the direction of our families and other important matters.

It feels good to be part of the American democratic process at work!

PS: I’ll do my very best to stay out of ‘shut down’ mode at the County Convention tomorrow - More details later! Feel free to get involved where you are --- Our country needs YOU.

{Finding Your Way}

I recently read an article called: “Using Butterfly Time, We Can Learn Secrets Of Our Own ‘Clocks’ – By Robert Lee Hotz (Wall Street Journal, Feb. 8, 2008)

This article was very fascinating and talked about the millions of monarch butterflies that migrate from Mexico to Canada each year.

My favorite quote from the article is this –

"What good is a butterfly?"

“….A butterfly can tell you about the fundamental biology of all creatures
on this earth. There is something fundamental about finding your way.”

Isn’t that beautiful? I thought so too – all of us are here to find our way. Just like the 55 million (or more) butterflies that form their majestic seasonal rite from Mexico to Canada,
we too must find our way …

Cheers to the journey and the beauty of our ‘migration’.

To learn more about the monarch migration please visit the link below -

The Journey North

http://www.learner.org/jnorth/monarch/

{Lyrical Extractions}
Sometimes life can feel like a Runaway Train
By Wendy Christensen

Runaway train never goin' back, wrong way on a one way track
seems like I should be getting somewhere, somehow I'm neither here nor there

The above extraction is the chorus to “Runaway Train” by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. This song has an eerie feeling to it. It’s also catchy and a bit haunting. And each time I hear it, I feel as though he’s singing about his deepest, darkest days.

I believe it’s safe to say that we’ve all had a bad day. You know the kind … where nothing goes right and you wish you could just crawl back in bed.

Even on the bad train ride days, we have options about how to make the ride better. The first step is to stop right where we are and consider the next best thing to do. For example; let’s say our current ‘runaway train’ has to do with being lonely. This seems to be a common feeling of many. We can stop and decide how we can be more involved with others in our neighborhood, our community or with our church. We could write a letter to a family member, send an email, or make a phone call. By taking control of the situation at hand, we can change the course of our ‘runaway train’.

As part of the song, Petty sings about being here or there. We decide ultimately if we are here or there. Taking responsibility for the direction of our lives requires action on our part. I recently watched a video clip of Robert Kiyosaki, author of Rich Dad Poor Dad and was intrigued by his publishing journey. His manuscript was turned down by several publishing houses and instead of choosing to be here or there, he decided to take action. He self-published 1,000 copies of his book and that one choice helped launch this very successful book which to date, has sold over 26 million copies. His book has been on the New York Times Bestseller list for six straight years. I think it’s safe to say that he’s happy on his ‘train ride’. And glad that he decided to get somewhere regardless of what the publishing experts may have decided about his book.

I am grateful to know that I’m not the only one who has had a deep, dark day. I appreciate this song and it serves as a reminder that we choose what train track we’re on and we can choose to get on a different train heading somewhere better. Feel free to rally support as you jump trains and create a different path… It’s ok - call someone you love in the middle of night and ask them to help remind you that you are a person of value and worth!

Wendy Christensen can be reached via her website:
http://www.littlemomentsthatmatter.com/

*******
Inside my brain: I wrote this article about a year ago. This particular piece is part of a collection of articles I've written about the songs that fill the air around us and my thoughts on them. I would love to have my own regular column someday and thought I would share a few pieces via my blog :) - Let me know what you think!

{Furniture Pizazz}
Something old turned into something NEW ...

(That's me with a paintbrush)

(Finished project)

(An old hutch - screaming for a make over)

One of my favorite hobbies is giving old furniture pieces a NEW style ...
Last weekend I worked on fixing up an old hutch for my dining room.
(See photos above).

Leap Year Powers -

I first learned about Leap Year as a young girl. I had a neighbor who was born on Leap Year (February 29) and she informed my sister, Amy and I of all of her magical powers – from being a Leap Year Child. We thought she was all-knowing and pretty much ruled the world because of her special ‘Leap Year’ Status.

Myth #1: Those born on Leap Year can breathe through their eyes (under water) –

I remember standing in our front yard and Debra coming over to demonstrate one of her amazing Leap Year abilities. She told us she could breathe through her eyes under water. We believed it! And stood staring at the bucket as she plunged her head into it and blew bubbles with her mouth (with her eyes wide open). We stood there in awe thinking – We’re not worthy to be in her presence….Wow – Ahhhh …

I’m laughing out loud right now remembering how much she used the ‘Leap Year Card’ in her favor to convince us of her endless supply of power and special talents.

Funny the stuff you believe as a kid!!!

Cheers to the magical influence of those born on this day :)

PS: Debra – wherever you are … Thanks for the childhood memories! Every Leap Year I think of you and all the funny things we learned as neighbors on our little spot in the world.

******

Art Credit:

Leap Frog by Jennie Stanfield (2007)

{Gumption … in the Spotlight}
(I got really passionate about this one – I even included 3 youTube videos for your viewing pleasure) Please view them all -

Little summary: counting backward – Watch ‘em:

Ultimate gumption – “Rocky Balboa”
Taking Action – “Walk the Line”
Make a decision – “You’ve Got Mail”

Cheers to guts, spunk and courage!

PS: It all begins inside with a desire to make things happen –
Are you feeling the gumption rhythm??

I AM.

Rocky Balboa - Official Trailer

Rocky - ultimate gumption!

Joaquin Phoenix - Get Rhythm

A man of gumption! :)

{Gumption Continued}

2.
The second stage of gumption - Knowing what you want and taking ACTION...
(Scene from "Walk the Line") ... I love how timid Johnny Cash is when he first starts performing. He stands at the mic and says "Hi... I'm Johnny Cash." As time goes by, that is not longer a timid statement! In fact, it makes him Johnny Cash. :) See the You Tube video above.

FEEL the gumption rhythm!! :) ....

{Gumption}

Courage; Spunk; Guts

In my estimation, there are 3 stages of gumption. Let’s explore them!

1.
The beginning stage - This stage is the place where a person is just trying out their spunk, courage and guts. Below is an example of the beginning stages of gumption.

(Scene from "You've Got Mail") ...

You've got mail

Beginning Stage of Gumption ... :) Make a decision.

{Now-ish}

Wendy and Amy

{Back Then-ish}

Wendy and Amy - in matching dresses made by MOM!

Happy Birthday to my sister, Amy!!!

(I love you and I hope this year will be full of adventure, love and dreams fulfilled).

Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...
It's about learning to dance in the rain!!!

:)

{A Galileo Night ...}

In order to see the moon (like you see above)

You need something powerful ...
Maybe like the telescope shown on the beach above??!
(That looks like a fun time - telescope on the beach!!)
Anyhow ...
Tonight's total lunar eclipse has been an awesome wonder indeed!! My youngest son, Kaleb, received a telescope for Christmas and he decided we needed to try it out on tonight's 'moon events' ...

{Lesson Learned}
After many attempts to zoom in on the moon, we decided a little more high-tech scope would be helpful.... Let's just say that the telescopes from Toys R Us are perfect for pretending to be Galileo!

Ahhhhhhhh what a beautiful night. Cheers to the moon and the beauty of the SKY ...

{My new, little niece ...}

Last weekend, THREE of my sisters (and their families) came into town to visit! Katie, recently had a new baby, Lia, and I was able to hold her. I couldn't get enough of that little girl! It was pure heaven to just snuggle with her and listen to her coo .... I love babies!

:)

To all my family.... I love you. I'm so glad we are close and that I get to have so many adorable, sweet, fun nieces and nephews! I thank Heavenly Father everyday for each of you ...
Cheers to family!!

Another Damsel in distress saved ...

(And not by the Fairy God Mother)

When was the last time you received REALLY GREAT Customer Service? I’m talking about the kind of service that makes you want to hang a sign from a hot air balloon and parade it over your city … Can you see it? (Imagine the good year blimp flying around with a banner the size of a football field).

OK I’m guessing you have a good image now in your mind of how happy I was for the help! My poster (hanging from the blimp) would say:
Another Damsel in Distress SAVED! Thank you Les Schwab Tire guys ...

{Moment of Distress ...}
Last Friday night, I had a big construction nail stuck in my back tire and had 3 places to be at once! The tire was almost completely flat .... what do do?

****

{Light bulb Moment ...} Aahhha -
I called the Les Schwab store and instantly, they offered a magical solution! :)

1. They sent a guy to my house to put air in the tire so I could safely drive it to the shop to be fixed. Nice huh? I thought so too.
2. Once at the shop, I only waited 15 minutes for the tire to be repaired.

(Amazing)
3. No bib- idee bob-idee BOO needed....
The charge for all of the above came to the grand total of -

-ZILCH, ZERO, NADA-

(Immediate HERO status for the tire guys ...)

****

Those talented tire experts had my white chariot up to speed in NO TIME...

Ahhhhhhh - Cheers to STELLAR customer service and the heroes at Les Schwab Tires!!

:)

Eric Clapton - Wonderful Tonight (Live) (Video Version)

On my very first date with my husband, he sang this song to me. I was so smitten :) ... And when we're hanging out - with his guitar I always have him sing this song to me. ahhhhhh the power of a song.

Six happy things :) -

Today has been one of the most wonderful days!! :) I am sitting here thinking about all the great things that happened today and feel the need to share a few -

{ONE} I had such a great time chatting with my sister, Jennie, via phone! I am so thankful for my sisters and the fun, loving relationship we all share... (I have 4 of them)!!

{TWO} I took a walk with my Mom along the River and it was beautiful. I enjoyed the gorgeous sunshine, the conversation and just being outside.

{THREE} My kids got home from school today and ran outside to play together.
They didn't come inside until the sun went down and when they finally
stepped inside, their cheeks were bright red!

{FOUR} We made lots of Valentines today - ahhhhh it felt good to share the love!

{FIVE} This is the first Valentine's holiday in 3 years that I am not working at a rose shop.

As much as I loved the roses and people, its nice to be home this year!

{SIX} Tonight when my daughter went to bed, she said:
"Mom, I love you up to the Moon, over to Mars, off a star, down to the ocean and back."

I said: "I love you that much too!"

***********

Life is good. And then some :)

Cheers to the little moments that matter!

Happy Birthday to Abraham Lincoln

A couple of years ago, I had the wonderful experience of visiting Washington, D.C. One of my favorite parts of the trip, was being able to climb the steps of the Abraham Lincoln Memorial and see the huge statue of him inside. It was a really touching and inspiring moment for me.

Feel free to read some famous Abraham Lincoln quotes –
(Visit the website below)
http://home.att.net/~rjnorton/Lincoln78.html

Make a pouch …. Scatter ants … Attract an Aardvark!
(Try this at home!!)

When was the last time you opened the paper and read something really happy? Has it been a while? It seems the media thrives on sharing the bad news! Papers are filled with - Who killed who, who’s broke, who’s losing, who’s not winning, what’s not happening and well you get the scene. It’s time for some happy print! Don’t you think??!

Yesterday morning, I was reading along in the paper and bumped into this really fun article about a family (that I know) who has a very fun, inspiring tradition involving Valentine’s Day and an aardvark! What a combo huh?

Apparently, all you need to do is make a pouch and this Valentine Aardvark makes his way through the heating ducts or up through the water pipes (his travel habits are not entirely known) but somehow, he finds a way to the happy, homemade pouches.

What happens next? This ant loving creature fills the awaiting pouches with little gifts and/or candy! He’s the Aardvark of love… (Sounds so groovy – should be a song)!!

HEY: What are you waiting for?
Valentine’s Day is just a few days out – get making the pouches already and prepare for the Valentine-Vark of love!!

Want to learn more? Please visit the Valentine Aardvark website –
http://www.valentineaardvark.com/


Here’s my little analysis of the aardvark –
Excellent artwork, I love how his ears are burning… I think they must burn because he hears people talking about him? The sneaky look in his eye is a bit like Zorro and the belt adorned with a little, red heart feels like Mr. Incredible! As for the boots – those are all his! This Aardvark has the makings of a Superhero. He’d make a really great animated character in a PBS children’s series or a full movie done by Pixar. Just my thoughts but I see great things for this aardvark of love. Watch out Gotham City!!

Fighting for a Cause ...

"It is the common task of each generation – and the burden of liberty – to preserve this country, expand its freedoms and renew its spirit so that its noble past is prologue to its glorious future.

Please stand proud today that you fought for a cause greater than yourself, and please continue to fight to preserve our ideals."
~ Mitt Romney

The above excerpt was part of an email I received from Mitt Romney thanking those who believed in him for their support. I was moved by the speech he gave at the Conservative
Political Action Conference (CPAC). Below is a link to the speech (feel free to read it):
http://www.mittromney.com/News/Press-Releases/CPAC_Address

****
PS: Today I went to the Caucasus and loved feeling the energy and passion of all those present. My spirit was renewed and it felt as if all present were committed to fighting for a cause bigger than us all :) .... Cheers to America!

On a more personal note ... today is extra special to me b/c it's my Dad's Birthday!
So, Happy Birthday Dad - I love you

:)

This Ad brought to you by: Wendy on a windy, cold and dark February night …

{Advertisement}
A way to convince, manipulate and persuade the buying public that they
MUST have the item or service being flaunted.

Saucony:
The right shoe can truly inspire a runner.

**********
Anybody elese find this funny?! :)

It's late - good night.

I'm off to dream of feet that paint the shoes they LOVE...

{VOTE}

You make a difference - Get out there and let your opinion be heard! :)

Happy Super Tuesday ...

{Style}
- A distinctive quality of orginality, elegance, or flair.

Have you ever stopped to think about the things that make YOU ... you?
This weekend, take a moment and write down the 10 things you love most about yourself.
Then at the very bottom of the list write:
My Authentic Style ...

:)
Cheers to YOU and your elegant flair!! ...

A game of tag …

My little sister tagged me via a blog post and not wanting to be a bad sport, I decided I would play along! The rules are this: Once tagged, you must disclose 6 unknown facts/dreams or habits that others may not know about you. Here goes …

First – I love the song “Year of the Cat” by Al Stewart (1976). It’s a mysterious song and for some odd reason, the music lulls me into complete calmness. I find the lyrics romantic and the piano hypnotic. As for the little bells or chimes that you hear towards the end of the song – ahhhhh love it – so gypsy feeling and so free. If ever I am stressed out or feeling like I’m going to stress out I put this song on and ta dah – serenity. Perhaps, I am part cat and this song on some subliminal level awakens my inner cat-ness? (Please let me know what affect this song has on you) – It is posted beneath this entry via video. Listen, watch, feel and then let me know what happens to your soul!! MEOW …

Second – I love words and their meanings. I find dictionaries intriguing, informative and enlightening. In the song “Year of the Cat” Al sings about patchouli – go look it up! Oh what would we do if Mr. Webster would not have been addicted to words and their meanings?!

Third – One of My favorite hobbies is thinking. Think … I think about the little chimes in the “Cat” song and wonder who thought of adding that to the song? It’s brilliant. My favorite thinking time is at night. The house is all quiet and the remains of the day are still lingering in the air and I get to sort them all out and savor the stuff that mattered and shift out the stuff that didn’t.

Fourth – I love being creative and helping others discover their creative self. I remember as a kid writing a play a week. My sisters and I put on many shows for our parents. The other day we checked out “James and the Giant Peach” (audio reading of the book) and my kids laughed very hard when I told them it was my favorite book as a kid. They got a kick out of knowing I produced and directed the kids in my 3rd grade class to put it on for the other 3rd graders at our school. We would practice at recess! I told them I played the role of the Ladybug (b/c my Mom had sewed me a really cool red and white polka dot shirt). For the record - I was a 70s child with a really talented seamstress mom who made me really cool hip clothes (like jeans with ladybugs). PS: If I ever offer workshops on how to tap into your personal creativity, it will involve a stage, costumes, a script and a show! OH the stuff we can learn when we dare to ACT.

Fifth – I love old school style. I better define that so there is no confusion about what I mean by those three words! Old School Style – Manners, grace and charm. I call it old school because sadly, I see manners grace and charm dying and fading away with each new generation. I love it when men hold the door, carry luggage, tip their hat, stand when a lady comes into a room, fill the car up with gas and treat children with respect . I have two boys and a daughter and I am trying to teach them that OLD SCHOOL is COOL! (The old school applies to women as well :) ... If we don't allow the 'old school to continue' it will die ... And we (us ladies) can be a bit old fashioned in our manners as well! Go ahead, look gorgeous for your man after work, have dinner on the table at 5 pm, wear an apron, make bread if you dare and most of all appreciate the little stuff and the big! Wow - You've tapped into the old fashioned old school gene that lingers from generations before me :) ... Lets not let respect and manners die!!

Lastly – I have a dream to one day give a speech at Central Park in New York City. What would my main message be? Dare to dream, dare to be you and most of all dare to LIVE.

Thanks Erica for the tag - I love you.
Ahhhhh - I’m off to think about words, dreams and cats!!
:)

Al Stewart website:

http://www.alstewart.com/

Al Stewart - Year of the cat

For Immediate Release

Ten Tips to Combat the January Blues

January 22nd has been declared as the most depressing day of the year.
Beat the blues with these simple, happy suggestions -

Boost your energy level with the color red. Dab on some red lipstick, wear red shoes,
add some pizzazz to your suit and wear a red tie to work. Be bold and let red add a
little zest to your step and day.

Sing. Remember how music transformed the Van Trapp family in the “Sound of Music?”
It can happen in your home too! Choose a song and sing it – out loud. Feel the joy
and energy that comes from belting out your favorite tune.

Focus on someone else. When was the last time you did something nice for a friend, family member or complete stranger? Here are a few ideas: say I love you, surprise an elderly neighbor with flowers, and smile at strangers everywhere!

Oh la la - Write a love letter. Share your feelings and let the other person know what you love about him/her. (For an extra romantic flare: handwrite the note and send it via snail mail).

Visit your Public Library. There is always something happening at the library. Stop in and feel the energy! Ask the Librarian to suggest a great book.
Have you ever read Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom?

Volunteer. Offer to help in your child’s classroom, sign up to coach a youth
sports team or volunteer to help clean up a local park.

Eat bell peppers. A magical thing happens when you bite into these crunchy vegetables.
You just feel happy eating them….Try it!

Grab a friend and go for a walk. The fresh air and company does wonders for the
body and soul. Schedule walking dates 3 times a week!

Pray. Ask for help from above when taking on the January blues. The Lord really does send angels, comfort and guidance when we ask.

Be kind to yourself. When feeling down and out, be gentle on yourself and give yourself permission to take a nap, go out to lunch, plan a vacation or watch your favorite old movie.

PS: Today is a good day to live, love, laugh and learn (tomorrow is too)!

Note to the press/media/fellow bloggers -
You have permission to use these “10 Tips” giving credit to:
Wendy Christensen author of: It’s the Little Moments that Matter:
26 simple steps to enrich every moment of your life! http://www.littlemomentsthatmatter.com/

RED … Use it!
(It does wonders for the spirit and soul) ...

{Energize}
v. To give energy to; rouse into activity.

I recently read an interesting article about how colors influence our mood. And was very happy to learn that the color red conjures up feelings of excitement and vitality – go ahead,
work it into your wardrobe when you need a lift.

Favorite red song: “Lady in Red” by Chris De Burgh

Becoming a DOUGHGIRL ...

Remember Benjamin “Bubba” Bufford-Blue from the movie Forrest Gump? He told Forrest he knew everything there was to know about the shrimping business. According to him, this shrimp cooking knowledge had been handed down from generation to generation.

Like Bubba, I come from a long line of cooks. Only my ancestors didn’t know everything there was to know about shrimp… their expertise is in another type of delicacy. It’s called BREAD. My Great Great Grandmother could do anything with bread (the kind made with yeast). And this has been handed down from generation to generation. My Mother is well known for her ability to make rolls, bread, cinnamon rolls, scones, potato rolls, pretzels, and anything else known under the sun that falls under the ‘bread category’. She knows everything there is to know about bread and making it.

Over the past holiday season, I decided to try out my 'bread abilities' ... This was a bold action on my part and I volunteered to make homemade rolls for a big Sunday night dinner
(just before Christmas).

NEWS FLASH:
My bread making attempt turned into comedy central
... the kids and I laughed until we cried!!

Apparently, the 'bread gene' skipped me.

Outcome:
According to the dinner party, the rolls tasted FANTASTIC – They didn’t look real great but they were yummy! Ahhhh - I felt a total sense of accomplishment just for taking it on!! It’s possible that my Grandma and Great Grandma were there in spirit ...
saying: YOU GO BREADGIRL!!

Bottom line:
I don’t know much about the ‘bread making’ business and The Bubba Bread Company is not one I intend to start anytime soon! I’ll leave that for the seasoned bread pros - Like my mom, my aunts, my sisters, and the Puffy Pillsbury doughboy.

Cheers to bread and those who make and bake it…

http://www.pillsbury.com/