Monday, March 10, 2008

{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??!

Saturday, March 08, 2008

{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 ...

Friday, March 07, 2008

{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.

Thursday, March 06, 2008

{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

Wednesday, March 05, 2008

{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!

Monday, March 03, 2008

{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).

Friday, February 29, 2008


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)

Thursday, February 28, 2008


{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.

Monday, February 25, 2008

{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).

Saturday, February 23, 2008


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

:)

Wednesday, February 20, 2008

{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!!

Monday, February 18, 2008

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!!
:)

Friday, February 15, 2008

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.

Wednesday, February 13, 2008

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!

Tuesday, February 12, 2008



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

Monday, February 11, 2008


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!!

Saturday, February 09, 2008

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
:)

Friday, February 08, 2008

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...

Tuesday, February 05, 2008


{VOTE}

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

Friday, February 01, 2008



{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!! ...

Sunday, January 27, 2008


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:

Wednesday, January 16, 2008

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/

Sunday, January 13, 2008

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

Wednesday, January 09, 2008

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/

Wednesday, January 02, 2008

A quote that motivates me ...

This quote never goes out of style for me! It inspires day after day, week after week and year after year ... Here we are in 2008 and you know, anything is possible!
Try saying that out loud - Anything is possible.
Feels good! Happy New Year ... :)

Monday, December 31, 2007



2007 is coming to a close ...

Cheers to an incredible year full of love, laughter, learning and moments to cherish!! :)
I recieved the following as part of an email from a dear friend ...
Kiss and hug often. Love truly. Laugh uncontrollably.
I plan on doing all 3 in '08 - how about you??!
Happy New Year's EVE ...
(Kiss someone you love at midnight!!)

Friday, December 28, 2007


The end of an email
(Send one with love - It goes a long way!)

How do you end your email messages? Do you close them with - bye, adios, all the best, best, yours, yours faithfully, with love and appreciation, love, thank you, be in touch … maybe you leave the ending statement off or simply sign your name?

I find the end of emails to be so interesting – The way a person ends an email is like a little glimpse into his/her soul or mood at the moment :) ...

Below are a few of my personal closing favorites:
(I added a little commentary so you can glimpse into my reasoning on all this!)
...

Happy Friday!
(Adapt the happy for whatever day it is, happy Monday and so on)
I like using the word happy at the end of anything. I feel this is a way to share happiness…
Just typing the word does wonders. Happy, happy, happy …

Create a GREAT day!
Several years ago, I was an Empowerment Leader/Coach and presented seminars/classes for corporations and private groups. This phrase was very fun to use and share – still is! Get out there people and CREATE something GREAT. Create, create, create ...

May it go well with you!
I used to work for a company called Just Roses and would occasionally be asked to work in one of their shops where the customers spoke very little English and Spanish was the native tongue. My brother, Robby, was fluent in Spanish and I asked him to give me some Spanish lessons to help me better communicate with the rose shoppers. Specifically, I wanted to say something nice to them at the end of our interaction. He taught me to say: May it go well with you (in Spanish) and you wouldn’t believe the smiles that phrase brought each time I said it! (For all I know, I butchered it so bad that I was really telling them to hurry and fly to the moon) but all in all I think we had a little meeting of the minds! And the farwells were happy ...

Lastly, my favorite way to close an email is with one of my favorite words - LOVE.
So few people end anything with that word or emotion – why? Are we afraid the word LOVE
will cause more trouble than good? (Something to think about)
Let’s try in 2008 to share more positive feelings, kinder words and end with MORE LOVE.

We can do this one email at a time … Join me on my quest to ACT with MORE LOVE.
How about this ending:

Happy Friday night - CREATE a splendid Weekend ...
Sending love and always love,
Wendy
:)
PS: Que te vaya bien (kay tay vah-yah bee-ehn)!

Wednesday, December 26, 2007


Music & Lyrics –
Starring: Drew Barrymore and Hugh Grant

Have you seen this show? If so, you’ll recognize the song I posted via You Tube…
It’s the theme of the show and makes its way into the corners of the mind! I can’t get it out!!

Favorite scene: Hugh Grant and Drew Barrymore in his apartment recording the demo of the below posted song.

Happy Wednesday!!

Cheers to love, life, movies and the day after Christmas!!
(We’re cleaning and de-junking the house) ...
Making room for all the NEW toys and surprises from Santa and loved ones.

Way Back Into Love (full version)

{Take 1} Posting a You Tube Video ...

Monday, December 24, 2007

My Grown Up Christmas List ...


As children we believed
The grandest sight to see
Was something lovely
Wrapped beneath the tree

But heaven only knows
That packages and bows
Can never heal
A hurting human soul

No more lives torn apart
That wars would never start
And time would heal all hearts
And everyone would have a friend
And right would always win
And love would never end

Oh, This is my grown up Christmas list
*******
(Lyrics from one of my favorite Christmas songs)

Merry Christmas!!
:)
Ahhh it's the night before Christmas and all through the house ...

Wednesday, December 19, 2007

The holiday food drive
{Tis the season to give ...}

Special thanks to all those who donated to this year’s Jason Lee Elementary food drive! We ended up with 24 boxes of food – which enabled us to give 4 boxes of food to 6 different families. Together, we MADE a difference … !!

Cheers to Christmas and the wonderful spirit of giving.
:)

Tuesday, December 18, 2007


Leavenworth, Washington
{The Enchanting Little Bavarian Village}

Last Saturday, we loaded our car (with kids, sleds a couple of movies and a few munchies) and headed for Leavenworth. This little town is nestled in the mountains and is completely charming and enchanting! We wanted to be part of their tree lighting ceremony and found ourselves with thousands of others counting down 10-9-8 until the town lights were all shining! We bumped into Santa Clause, a reigndeer, Father Time and even met a big fuzzy bear. It was such a magical day for us! I highly recommend visiting Leavenworth during the holidays… There is nothing like standing on a dark winter night in a crowded street full of thousands of people singing Silent Night ...

PS: Good Morning America recently filmed their show live from Leavenworth as it was chosen as one of the top 5 places in the USA to enjoy a display of holiday lights!

Feel free to visit the Leavenworth website:
Photo credit: Our son Kade

Friday, December 14, 2007


NEWS FLASH: Mascara and sad movies don’t mix.

Tip for the 'silver screen' eyes:
Give your lashes a break when you watch “Griffin & Phoenix” …
(Romantic Comedy, Love story) 2006, PG-13
Estimated tears: 1,200 (give or take a few)
Trust me ... Waterproof mascara won't work for this film.

:)

Friday, December 07, 2007

A night at the Ballet ...
My daughter and I attended the Nutcracker by the Mid-Columbia Ballet tonight! OH it was splendid! I think ballet is so romantic and moving.
Good night - I'm off to dream of dancing snowflakes swirling around a giant rat king!
(Could be an interesting night!)
:)

Thursday, December 06, 2007

Topics for the dinner table …

I heard it once said that you should never discuss politics or religion around the dinner table (especially true when there are guests present). Lately, don’t you find that everything ties back into religion or politics? I think that is WHAT we MUST discuss around the dinner table. Below are three topic starters – feel free to toss ‘em out over the big plates piled high
with delicious grub.
1
Faith and religion in America. I’d encourage you to watch Mitt Romney’s speech given earlier today about this very subject. No matter what religion or political party you belong to … I believe you’ll find his words have merit and truth. And are definitely worthy of ‘table talk’.
You can watch the Mitt Romney speech via the below link:
http://www.mittromney.com/
2
Gas Prices. We are in need of changes in this area. Throw out those two words in any setting and I guarantee you’ll tap into a rich source of oil price woes and disgust of our current petroleum situation. (I just walked in from filling up my rig with gas and had to laugh at myself when I went to the display board and it said: Would you like your receipt? I always press yes. It serves as tangible evidence that I actually DID spend that much on one tank). Yipes! See the banter and passions are flying already!
3
Love.
After the hearty meal and passionate discussions, you’ll most definitely want to wrap it all up with my favorite subject. Throw out this quote and let the emotions run wild:

“There is only one happiness in life, to love and be loved.”
~ George Sand

Cheers to dinnertime and the conversations that make it lively!

Wednesday, December 05, 2007

Starry, starry night (Vincent)

The way to know life is to LOVE many things.
~ Vincent Van Gogh

This is one of my all time favorite songs!!

Thursday, November 29, 2007

Check out my Slide Show!

Lunch with Lauren …
(My thoughts on a snowy Thursday afternoon)


My daughter and I have had the opportunity to share lunch time together for most of her life!
(She's 5 so that's a lot of Mom & daughter lunch times)...

Every day before lunch I say to her – “Lauren, I’m the luckiest Mom in the whole world.” And she then says: “Why?” And I reply: “Because I get to sit by you and eat lunch with you everyday!” And we both laugh. This little routine has been going on for a long time.

Today, we were in a rush to eat so we could get her to preschool on time. I quickly made the usual peanut butter only sandwiches (cut into 4 little sandwiches) with some chips, a glass of milk and a napkin.

As I went into the dining room, she said: “Mom, why are you soooooooo lucky?”
I looked at her and said: “Because I have you for a daughter and we get to sit together and have lunch!” “YUP” she yelled.

And even though we were in a big hurry, we still had time to chat about letters of the alphabet, the falling snow outside and would it still be there after she got done with school, and could we make a big snowman later, and did the word Milk really start with M b/c on Blues Clues Steve said cow started with C ….

I love you Lauren. Thanks for all the wonderful lunchtimes. I thank Heavenly Father everyday for blessing me with three awesome kids who add more meaning and magic to my life than I could ever express in words.

Signing off –
The LUCKIEST MOM!!
:)
PS:
I can’t wait for the kids to get home from school so
we can build a snowman or snow creature in the backyard ….

Tuesday, November 27, 2007

An ‘Enchanted’ Evening …

What happens when an animated princess from fairy tale land lands in modern day New York?
First .... She becomes REAL and so do her dreams!
************
I know I’ve said this before but I feel I need to say it again. There is just something wonderful about seeing a movie on the BIG SCREEN! As a family, we went to the newly released Disney movie: Enchanted. This movie is absolutely adorable. The actress (Amy Adams) is purely enchanting and actually makes the character believable! And Patrick Dempsey makes the perfect leading man. The movie is full of songs, critters, dancing, laughs and is sure to be a classic. I loved it and laughed out loud through many parts of the movie!! Favorite quote: Patrick Dempsey (talking to Giselle) :
“What did you do…Escape from a Hallmark Card?”

Rated: PG / Genre: Romantic comedy with a twist of real and animation.
GO SEE IT!! (5 stars)

The enchantment didn’t stop there… After the show, we walked outside to a winter wonderland of falling snow. That’s another thing I find magical – the first snowfall of winter!

Cheers to the enchanting moments ... :)

Wednesday, November 21, 2007


I’m thankful for …

- love, a home, books, the opportunity to serve, my relationship with our Heavenly Father, music, the earth, time, life, good health, a sense of humor, my family, knowledge,
friends and freedom!

(My list goes on and on….)
What are you thankful for??! :)

Happy Thanksgiving!
Love,
Wendy

Thursday, November 15, 2007


Life’s a dance, put on your dancing shoes, take a chance
(lyrics from "Put on your Dancin' Shoes")
Steve Winwood
I love that sassy red shoe ... :)
Don't you??!

Wednesday, November 14, 2007

You've Got Mail
A movie that makes me laugh - out loud!
Kathleen Kelly: I love daisies.
Joe Fox: You told me.
Kathleen Kelly: They're so friendly. Don't you think daisies are the friendliest flower?

It's been a dark and really cold November day... I woke up with the flu and felt really yucky. Luckily, I don't get sick very often :)!! What did I do to lift my spirits? I watched "You've Got Mail" and laughed really hard. I think Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks are so adorable in this movie...

Cheers to the flu and movies that help combat the tough days.

Saturday, November 10, 2007

Love is …

Have you ever sat down and decided you just needed to write something? Tonight I had a writing flash … I grabbed a piece of paper and decided to do a free write. Let it all just flow.

The first thing that came out of my pen was: Love is. Have you ever tried to write about love? It is a beautiful experience and one worth the time!

Try it – grab a piece of paper and at the top write – Love is … And let the feelings that come to you rush out onto the page.

Here’s a few of my thoughts –
Love is … patient, kind, funny, vulnerable, serious, honest, good, forgiving, respectful,
love gives us wings to fly, there is no fear in love, love helps us become
our greatest potential, love is air … love is all around us!
(and my list goes on and on).

{Bottom-line - love is a beautiful and powerful thing}

PS: I like what Oprah says about love:
“Happiness is never something you get from other people.
The happiness you feel is in direct proportion to the love you give.”

Thursday, November 08, 2007

Tis The Season for Pumpkin Pie ...

I think it is safe to say that the Holiday Season is upon us!
I am amazed at how fast the years fly by!! You blink and miss it ...

I looked out my window this morning and enjoyed the wonder of fall and the falling leaves full of orange, brown, red and yellow. It's gorgous out and I have some major leaf work ahead of me!

This time of year makes me want to watch old movies, bake (and eat) pumpkin pie and
make crafty things for Christmas ...!

Cheers to the seasons that fly by ...
mmmmmm I can taste the pumpkin pie --

(Little rhyme for the road)

:)

Wednesday, November 07, 2007

Book Expo & Publicity tips for Authors


Publicity TIP
Authors Take NOTE ...
I had the privilege of meeting Rick Frishman while attending the Publisher’s Marketing Association (PMA) University courses in Washington D.C. during BookExpo in 2006. If you are an author I highly recommend you sign up for his newsletter. Below is a powerful reminder about believing …

******"A Rick Tip"******

This week- it will actually be a "Harvey Tip". This is from my friend Harvey Mackay. We at PTA have handled Harvey for years and consider him to be a mentor. Below are 3 Tips from Harvey. You can sign up for his newsletter at http://www.harveymackay.com

Tip number 1:
Believe in yourself - even when no one else does.

Life is not a parabolic curve. It doesn't go straight up. There are a lot of lumps and bumps. A lot of throttling up ... and throttling down. I've never met a successful person who hasn't had to overcome either a little or a lot of adversity.

Anytime I feel like quitting I just look at a framed poster I have hanging in my office
of one of our people:

He failed in business in '31.
He ran as a state legislator and lost in '32.
He tried business again in '33 and failed again.
His sweetheart died in '35.
He had a nervous breakdown in '36.
He ran for state elector in '40 after he regained his health.
He was defeated for Congress in '43, defeated again for Congress in '48, defeated when he ran for the Senate in '55 and defeated for vice presidency of the United States in '56.

He ran for Senate again in '58 and lost.
This man never quit. He kept trying till the last. In 1860, this man Abraham Lincoln was elected president of the United States.

So it seems like if we want to triple our success ratio ... we might have to triple our failure rate.
Reprinted from "Rick Frishman's Author 101 Newsletter" Subscribe at http://www.author101.com and receive Rick's "Million Dollar Rolodex"

Tuesday, November 06, 2007

The Call Reunion in Afton, Wyoming



Breathing in Memories
A random Tuesday post about the people and places that help make us who we are ...

During the summer, my family and I were able to attend a The Call Family Reunion in Afton, Wyoming. This reunion occurs every other year and has been running for 30+ years. My Grandma Call (she is 91 and still kicking) had 14 children and my Mom is number 10. I spent many summers at my Grandmother’s ranch in Wyoming. We looked forward every year to seeing our cousins and exploring the mountains, streams, grass and fields that decorated my Grandma’s land.

Many of my favorite memories as a youth happened at the Call Family Reunion. I learned about cowboys and farming, about working the land, about the power of uniting as a family and the importance of relationships! Most of all, I had FUN…

I had not attended a reunion in about 10 years and my children had only heard stories of the infamous Call Reunions of my youth. I heard that this would be the last official Call reunion and decided I needed to return to my roots and give my children the chance to experience the ‘magic’ for themselves! As we were driving into the town of Afton, all my memories came flooding back. The tears flowed and I couldn’t believe I had waited so long to return!!

We pitched a tent on my Grandma’s land and enjoyed every moment of that reunion. It rained the first night (all night crazy rain) and our tent had a hole so you can imagine the riot we had!! That didn’t deter us from the fun and memories of that awesome weekend.

On the last day – we were all saying our goodbyes. There were over 250 people in attendance!! I was sitting in my Grandma’s living room with my cousin Kendall and he was so quiet and still and I asked what he was doing? He looked up at me and said: “I’m breathing in memories!” And so I sat down with him and in silence we remembered many wonderful times from our past.

One particular memory stands out with him… Every year his family would bring their 4-wheelers up to the reunion and let everyone use them. I had never driven one before and Kendall was brave enough to tag along for the ride! We drove up my Grandma’s canyon and much to our shock and dismay I drove the 4-wheeler up a tree! The tree bent way over and lucky for us, flung us back safely to the ground. Kendall and I laughed very had about that memory and many others.

And then we hugged and said goodbye. And every time I think of my Grandma and her heavenly place in Afton, Wyoming, I breathe in memories of people and places I love.



Feel free to visit the Afton, Wyoming website: http://www.aftonwyoming.net/

Thursday, November 01, 2007

"I'll get you my pretty and your little dog too ..."

I love Halloween! This year, I dressed up in three different costumes ... Can you believe?
The first costume I was a retro 50s gal (Poodle skirt and all), second time I went to a dance with my husband and he was Superman (I was Lois Lane) and last night - I couldn't resist being a witch! The funnest part about the costume, was the eyelashes - WOW ... talk about make your eyes jump out! Ladies, if you've never tried wearing big, full, black lashes - I highly recommend it... Amazing things happen!!

I do hope everyone had a fantastic Halloween! I am feeling the 'Halloween jet-lag' today and I think the peanut butter cups might help give me the 'kick' I need to resume the warp speed pace of life these days!!!

Signing off -

Witch Wendy... Hee hee hee
{Riding off on my broomstick now} Zooming out of web site ... (LOL)