Tuesday, December 15, 2015
Sending Greetings for the Holidays
Christmas is ten days from today (as I sit here typing). One Christmas tradition I enjoy is sending and receiving Christmas cards. In the years past I created my own cards for family, friends and acquaintances but the past year as well as this year I have not done so. Last year I found some cute cards in a catalog. One set of twelve cards had a little magnet that accompanied the card and the other set had a little recipe book of holiday treats. After purchasing them, I found I had more than enough left over to use again for this year. Being a veteran, I belong to veteran’s organizations. One of the organizations sends out Christmas cards as a fund raiser. This year I received some very lovely cards with matching envelopes. They became my back-up set in case I did not have enough left from the previous year to send.
I recall years ago, by this time in the season, I’d have a nice stack of cards received. Some even with a letter detailing the sender’s year in review. Yes, I too had done the year end letter, but like the creating my own cards, the year end letter has gone by the wayside. The other day I had to pick up a few boxes of cards for a project for one of the veteran’s organizations which I belong. These cards were to be signed ‘Santa & Mrs. Claus’ or Santa & Mrs. Santa’. They are to be given out to nursing home veterans at a luncheon this week. As I walked through the store, I found the cards with a sale sign to buy one box get the other box fifty percent off.
I wondered about this sale so early in the month. Pondering this reason for such a sale before the fifteenth of December, I have come to a conclusion. It seems people are sending less and less Christmas cards or not sending any at all. Social media is how many send holiday greetings to family, friends and acquaintances. E-cards sent via email, text messages, Twitter and Facebook has become the way of keeping in touch during the holiday season. With the hustle and bustle of our lives, creating one text, one email, one posting to Facebook we now can wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, Happy Holidays or Season’s Greetings via cyber space.
I too have wished many a Happy Birthday, Happy Anniversary, Congratulations and words of condolence through social media; I still like to sit down, pen in hand, address book opened, Christmas music playing in the background and a cup of hot chocolate near and write out my cards. Not only do I sign my name and my husband’s but I include a personal message to the receiver.
Until next time…..stores are having a sale on cards, why not pick up a box and return to the old fashion tradition of sending out to family, friends, co-workers and acquaintances. Who knows, you may be bringing back an old tradition. A card sent could mean a card received.
Best wishes for a wonderful holiday season to one and all
May you have a Merry Christmas and happy and healthy New Year.
Tuesday, December 8, 2015
Thoughts for the Season
Since after Halloween movies about Christmas and the holidays have been on television. To date, I have probably seen everyone twice, some maybe three times. Each movie has the happy ending that leaves the viewer with a feeling of joy inside. A few of the movies makes one reach for a hankie to wipe away the tears; a few had the viewer laughing and yet some movies makes one ponder and think about the magic of the season.
Since after Thanksgiving, I have been reading Christmas and holiday themed stories. Like the movies, they leave the reader with a feeling of happiness inside.
We all know these movies and stories are a work of fiction. Everyday life is REAL; there are ups and downs; peaks and valleys; highs and lows; sunny skies and stormy weather. Well you get the drift.
The holidays can be a time of stress for everyone. There are many facing hardships; many illness; many are alone; many estranged from family members. Many will just by-pass the holiday season all together. They will see it as just another day and not think about what this season means. Christmas time is the season of hope, goodwill, peace and forgiveness. We need to think long and hard about the true meaning of Christmas. It is not the fancy bows and shiny ribbons, the colorful wrapping paper, the gifts under a beautiful evergreen tree. It is more than greeting cards sent and received; more than the rush to the stores for the perfect gift. Christmas is a time to reflect upon, as it is said, ’the reason for the season’.
Christmas is a season with a message, meaning and spirit.
The message of the season……LOVE
The meaning of the season….PEACE
And the spirit of the season…..JOY
Until next time…..best wishes for a wonderful holiday season. Merry Christmas to one and all.
Since after Thanksgiving, I have been reading Christmas and holiday themed stories. Like the movies, they leave the reader with a feeling of happiness inside.
We all know these movies and stories are a work of fiction. Everyday life is REAL; there are ups and downs; peaks and valleys; highs and lows; sunny skies and stormy weather. Well you get the drift.
The holidays can be a time of stress for everyone. There are many facing hardships; many illness; many are alone; many estranged from family members. Many will just by-pass the holiday season all together. They will see it as just another day and not think about what this season means. Christmas time is the season of hope, goodwill, peace and forgiveness. We need to think long and hard about the true meaning of Christmas. It is not the fancy bows and shiny ribbons, the colorful wrapping paper, the gifts under a beautiful evergreen tree. It is more than greeting cards sent and received; more than the rush to the stores for the perfect gift. Christmas is a time to reflect upon, as it is said, ’the reason for the season’.
Christmas is a season with a message, meaning and spirit.
The message of the season……LOVE
The meaning of the season….PEACE
And the spirit of the season…..JOY
Until next time…..best wishes for a wonderful holiday season. Merry Christmas to one and all.
Saturday, December 5, 2015
Memories of Christmas Past
Everyone has a favorite Christmas story or perhaps two. One I recall was from my earliest childhood memories. At the time I was three years old. All I wanted for Christmas was a Betsy Westy Doll. The doll was unique at the time as when you put a bottle in her mouth, the liquid would go right through her body and out as if she peed her pants. My doll had brown hair and I think a red color dress. I was so excited that Santa brought me such a doll. At the time, I was living with my maternal grandparents. On Christmas morning, I saw Betsy under the tree with other toys Santa brought, but all I could think about was this special doll. I hurried to feed her and low and behold she had wet her underpants. Santa brought extra pairs for Betsy so I had no fear of her going without panties. That morning, I was headed to church with my aunt and uncle. My Sunday school class was to sing “Away in a Manger” at the church service. Like all the other girls, I had brought my new doll to church with me. It was time for our class to head up to sing, I handed my uncle Betsy and the bottle informing him it was time for her to be fed. Being such the great guy he was, my uncle put the bottle of liquid into Betsy’s mouth; true to form, she peed out the liquid all over the new blue suit he wore. My uncle let out a soft chuckle and others sitting around him seeing the scene, also chuckled.
My class sang their song; I returned to my seat in the pew only to see the wet spot on my uncle’s suit coat. All he said to me was “Betsy is full but she needs an underpants change when we get back home.”
When you think about fond memories of the holidays, it is not the gifts that are under the tree, what is left in your stocking or how much food you consume or egg nog you drink, it is an unexpected act of goodwill. My uncle’s act of feeding my doll because I asked, was such a sweet gesture. In years to come, I came to realize this one little thing made that Christmas a wonderful memory.
During this time of year, we all should try to do an act or two of kindness for another. Calling an elderly relative who lives out of town, just to say hello and how are you; asking a single parent friend or co-worker if you can do something such as watch their child or children so they can do some Christmas shopping; volunteering at a local soup kitchen; donating toys to a local toy drive; donating to a homeless shelter. It is not how much you spend, the amount of time spent doing it, but the fact you are doing an act of goodwill and kindness.
Until next time….take a few moments from your busy holiday schedule with a cup of hot chocolate, a glass of egg nog or some hot cider and remember a wonderful memory of a Christmas past.
My class sang their song; I returned to my seat in the pew only to see the wet spot on my uncle’s suit coat. All he said to me was “Betsy is full but she needs an underpants change when we get back home.”
When you think about fond memories of the holidays, it is not the gifts that are under the tree, what is left in your stocking or how much food you consume or egg nog you drink, it is an unexpected act of goodwill. My uncle’s act of feeding my doll because I asked, was such a sweet gesture. In years to come, I came to realize this one little thing made that Christmas a wonderful memory.
During this time of year, we all should try to do an act or two of kindness for another. Calling an elderly relative who lives out of town, just to say hello and how are you; asking a single parent friend or co-worker if you can do something such as watch their child or children so they can do some Christmas shopping; volunteering at a local soup kitchen; donating toys to a local toy drive; donating to a homeless shelter. It is not how much you spend, the amount of time spent doing it, but the fact you are doing an act of goodwill and kindness.
Until next time….take a few moments from your busy holiday schedule with a cup of hot chocolate, a glass of egg nog or some hot cider and remember a wonderful memory of a Christmas past.
Sunday, November 29, 2015
'TIS THE HOLIDAY SEASON
There is a made for television movie seen during the holidays called Crazy for Christmas. One can label the movie as one of those ‘happy ending’ stories, which I consider it to be. I may be able to label myself as crazy for Christmas, but people say I am more of a wacko when it comes to the holiday. Well perhaps that statement is true, but there is a legitimate reason. For over thirty years I did not care about Christmas. In fact they could have made another Scrooge or Grinch type character out of how I really felt deep inside. No one knew my true feelings as each year I acted in the manner one should during the holidays. Outside I smiled, said the right words and went through the motions of doing all those things a person would do. Inside I loathed it all and let my true feelings eat at me.
It took over thirty years for me to just ‘’let go’ of the past and look at Christmas as a time to rejoice and realize that Christmas is not about what you get as gifts, what you have on the table to eat, but the people surround you that matters. Christmas is a time to celebrate the birth of the Christ Child and show kindness to and goodwill to all.
It was a simple situation that changed me from being a Ms. Grinch to the Ms. Santa I am today. Over the next few weeks, I plan to give blog about the Christmas holiday and the holiday season. Black Friday always begins the start of the shopping season; people hustle and bustle to the malls, discount stores and electronic stores looking for the perfect gift. But WHAT IS THE PERFECT GIFT? The answer depends on you and what you think. Of course there is always that one person who is hard to please; nothing seems just right. Cash is too easy to give or writing a check; instead I venture out to the stores and purchase gift cards. I am still out there in the masses, standing in line waiting to be checked out. With a gift card, the receiver can buy what they want or what they feel they need. Do I miss anything in not taking the time to actually purchase a gift? Yes, perhaps I do. Of course I do realize this; if the receiver does not like the gift, they will either return it, re-gift it, donate it to a second hand store or sell it at a yard sale. Gift cards, yes the way for me to go.
Until next time……enjoy shopping and remember it does not matter how much or how little you spend, but the thought that counts.
Tuesday, November 17, 2015
Thanksgiving
Last week Veteran’s Day celebrated; thank you given to those who served our country with honor and pride. Next week we will celebrate Thanksgiving. Stores advertise turkeys by various sizes, cranberry sauce, yams, stuffing mix and pie; customers look for the best bargains.
While the grocery stores are selling items for the Thanksgiving feast, all other stores are decking the halls for the upcoming Christmas season.
Before we begin to trim the tree, bake the cookies, rush to the mall shopping, we need to celebrate Thanksgiving. A day we give thanks and gratitude for all we have; a day to spend with family, watch the Macy’s parade, gather around the table for the feast and then sit back to watch football. The decorations of pilgrims, Indians, cornucopias, turkeys and pumpkins adorn the home. The scent of roasting turkey and baking pies filter through the home with a wonderful aroma that whets the appetite of young and old.
As we bow our heads in prayer giving ‘thanks’ for what we have we should remember this: ‘it is not what you have that matters but who you have to share it with’.
Take time to enjoy the day of Thanksgiving with those who matter in your life. Start a new tradition, as you sit around the table, ask each person to tell everyone at least one thing for which they are thankful.
Until next time…..HAPPY THANKSVIGING. Enjoy the turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy, marshmallow yams, cranberry sauce, stuffing and of course the apple pie and pumpkin pie. Make sure you have enough left turkey for sandwiches on Friday as you won’t have time to cook after all the Black Friday shopping.
MURPHY FAMILY TRADITIONS…THANKSGIVING DAY
©Scottie-ann Murphy For Thanksgiving Day 2008
Boughs are bare
Their brilliant leaves
Scattered upon the ground
Stripped cornstalks waiting
Their fate in the fields
Silos stored corn
Become winter feed for livestock
Apples gathered from orchards
Pumpkins snatched from their patch
Harvesting of grain and wheat
Turn fields of yellow to brown
Another season….
Come and gone
Days become short
Chilly north winds blow
Halloween celebrated
Honor paid on Veteran’s Day
Pies cool, cranberry sauce is made
Macy’s parade entertains us
Gathered with family and friends
We sit at the table
Bow our heads in prayer
To give thanks for our many blessings
Enjoying the feast before us
We laugh,
Talk,
And reminisce
Until……
It is time for kick off of the first
Football game of the day
While the grocery stores are selling items for the Thanksgiving feast, all other stores are decking the halls for the upcoming Christmas season.
Before we begin to trim the tree, bake the cookies, rush to the mall shopping, we need to celebrate Thanksgiving. A day we give thanks and gratitude for all we have; a day to spend with family, watch the Macy’s parade, gather around the table for the feast and then sit back to watch football. The decorations of pilgrims, Indians, cornucopias, turkeys and pumpkins adorn the home. The scent of roasting turkey and baking pies filter through the home with a wonderful aroma that whets the appetite of young and old.
As we bow our heads in prayer giving ‘thanks’ for what we have we should remember this: ‘it is not what you have that matters but who you have to share it with’.
Take time to enjoy the day of Thanksgiving with those who matter in your life. Start a new tradition, as you sit around the table, ask each person to tell everyone at least one thing for which they are thankful.
Until next time…..HAPPY THANKSVIGING. Enjoy the turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy, marshmallow yams, cranberry sauce, stuffing and of course the apple pie and pumpkin pie. Make sure you have enough left turkey for sandwiches on Friday as you won’t have time to cook after all the Black Friday shopping.
MURPHY FAMILY TRADITIONS…THANKSGIVING DAY
©Scottie-ann Murphy For Thanksgiving Day 2008
Boughs are bare
Their brilliant leaves
Scattered upon the ground
Stripped cornstalks waiting
Their fate in the fields
Silos stored corn
Become winter feed for livestock
Apples gathered from orchards
Pumpkins snatched from their patch
Harvesting of grain and wheat
Turn fields of yellow to brown
Another season….
Come and gone
Days become short
Chilly north winds blow
Halloween celebrated
Honor paid on Veteran’s Day
Pies cool, cranberry sauce is made
Macy’s parade entertains us
Gathered with family and friends
We sit at the table
Bow our heads in prayer
To give thanks for our many blessings
Enjoying the feast before us
We laugh,
Talk,
And reminisce
Until……
It is time for kick off of the first
Football game of the day
Monday, November 9, 2015
VETERAN'S DAY
Very often we tend to forget those deployed. Every Friday many will wear a red shirt to remember; this day is known as “Red Shirt Friday”.
R…REMEMBERING E…EVERYONE D…DEPLOYED
It is the least we can do to honor the men and women who are proudly serving our nation. But, while we remember by wearing our red shirts, we need to remember those who SERVED. Men and women in the community, a family member, friend, neighbor, acquaintance or co-worker. They no longer are labeled marine, air man, coast guard, solider and sailor. A new title is bestowed upon them, VETERAN. November 11th we set aside a day to pay them homage and say “Thank You”. Ceremonies and parades will be held in their honor. Many eateries will give veterans free meals and other businesses will offer discounts for the day.
There is a cartoon that is making the rounds on social media. It is of a small boy bowing his head in prayer. The caption reads “THANKSGIVING IS THE DAY WE PAUSE TO GIVE THANKS FOR THE THINGS WE HAVE”. There is a set of dog tags and next to them are these words, “VETERAN’S DAY IS THE DAY WE PAUSE TO GIVE THANKS TO THE PEOPLE WHO FOUGHT FOR THE THINGS WE HAVE”.
A cute cartoon, but thinking about the words, it rings so true. While we remember and say thank you to those we may see on Veteran’s Day, we all should not forget those veterans in the VA Hospital and Homes and nursing facilities.
Veteran’s Day….twenty-four short hours to tell those who served with pride. ‘Thank you’ is two words to tell them how you fell but we need to remember them not just one day a year but each and every day.
Until next time to all who veteran’s HAPPY VETERAN’S DAY.
Wednesday, October 28, 2015
Time Change, Halloween and Costumes
Two days to Candy Corn Day
Three days to Halloween
This weekend we will turn the clocks back an hour. The old saying goes ‘spring ahead, fall back’. My husband kidded me and said he will be getting up at 4:00 a.m. instead of 5:00 a.m. until he gets use to the change. Sure this was just a joke on his part or so I hope. I have no problem with the fall time change, but in the spring it takes me at least a week to adjust.
With this being Halloween week, I have come to the conclusion, that like when a full moon approaches, people seem to be going a tad crazy. The past few days, the drivers on the road just are a bit more reckless. Is there something in the air that is making them this way? It not only were those driving motor vehicles but those on bikes were just as bad; yesterday I almost got run over by a man in a golf cart when I was walking to my car from the post office.
Halloween falling on a weekend may be a problem. Trick-or-treaters will be out in full force all day long into the night. I recall as a kid going out Saturday in the afternoon, returning home for supper then going back out till at least 8:00 pm. This means one thing, make sure you have a supply of treats on hand.
As I look forward to the day of dressing up in a costume, I have yet decided what to wear. Looks like tomorrow I will be searching my closet to pull something together that can pass for going out to a party and wear to the store at the same time. Not like I have not gone into stores dressed at Christmas time in my Ms. Santa outfit; and no I do not plan to be Ms. Santa for Halloween. My husband already has his outfit planned, in fact he planned his attire in June.
A few web sites have been helpful in providing insight to costumes from items from the closet. All one needs is a good imagination and there you have it a costume to wear on October 31st. I remember a few years ago, I pulled together a costume in a matter of a few hours, a fifties female outfit. I now use that outfit for when there is a Fifties Night at one of the veterans clubs.
Whatever you decide, costume or no costume, Halloween is not just for kids anymore. More and more adults get into the fun of dressing up, if only to pass out treats at home.
Until next time…..remember to have fun….have lots of treats and if there are left over the next day…I am sure someone will gladly take them off your hands.
WITCHY NIGHT OUT
©Scottie-ann Murphy
Witches fly overhead in the starry moonlit sky
Driving brooms that are sturdy and thick
Many don’t like automatic models
They prefer to drive a stick
Crackling loudly as they land on the street
Park their ride at the curb near the meter
The enchantresses hurry inside to the candle lit club
Where they will encounter night boogie fever
Drinking a cauldron brew colored deep blood red
Made with cranberries, frogs and eyes from newts
The band will play a slow haunting melody
As the sorceresses dance with monstrous brutes
The patrons are having a wonderful evening
At the place called “The Frank-n-Stein Dive”
Witches always celebrate quite responsibly
And they never drink and then drive
Three days to Halloween
This weekend we will turn the clocks back an hour. The old saying goes ‘spring ahead, fall back’. My husband kidded me and said he will be getting up at 4:00 a.m. instead of 5:00 a.m. until he gets use to the change. Sure this was just a joke on his part or so I hope. I have no problem with the fall time change, but in the spring it takes me at least a week to adjust.
With this being Halloween week, I have come to the conclusion, that like when a full moon approaches, people seem to be going a tad crazy. The past few days, the drivers on the road just are a bit more reckless. Is there something in the air that is making them this way? It not only were those driving motor vehicles but those on bikes were just as bad; yesterday I almost got run over by a man in a golf cart when I was walking to my car from the post office.
Halloween falling on a weekend may be a problem. Trick-or-treaters will be out in full force all day long into the night. I recall as a kid going out Saturday in the afternoon, returning home for supper then going back out till at least 8:00 pm. This means one thing, make sure you have a supply of treats on hand.
As I look forward to the day of dressing up in a costume, I have yet decided what to wear. Looks like tomorrow I will be searching my closet to pull something together that can pass for going out to a party and wear to the store at the same time. Not like I have not gone into stores dressed at Christmas time in my Ms. Santa outfit; and no I do not plan to be Ms. Santa for Halloween. My husband already has his outfit planned, in fact he planned his attire in June.
A few web sites have been helpful in providing insight to costumes from items from the closet. All one needs is a good imagination and there you have it a costume to wear on October 31st. I remember a few years ago, I pulled together a costume in a matter of a few hours, a fifties female outfit. I now use that outfit for when there is a Fifties Night at one of the veterans clubs.
Whatever you decide, costume or no costume, Halloween is not just for kids anymore. More and more adults get into the fun of dressing up, if only to pass out treats at home.
Until next time…..remember to have fun….have lots of treats and if there are left over the next day…I am sure someone will gladly take them off your hands.
WITCHY NIGHT OUT
©Scottie-ann Murphy
Witches fly overhead in the starry moonlit sky
Driving brooms that are sturdy and thick
Many don’t like automatic models
They prefer to drive a stick
Crackling loudly as they land on the street
Park their ride at the curb near the meter
The enchantresses hurry inside to the candle lit club
Where they will encounter night boogie fever
Drinking a cauldron brew colored deep blood red
Made with cranberries, frogs and eyes from newts
The band will play a slow haunting melody
As the sorceresses dance with monstrous brutes
The patrons are having a wonderful evening
At the place called “The Frank-n-Stein Dive”
Witches always celebrate quite responsibly
And they never drink and then drive
Monday, October 26, 2015
Memories and Candy Corn
Four days till National Candy Corn Day and five days till Halloween as of today.
I mentioned in a prior blog how I enjoy this season of the year; also mentioned how I quietly sit and consume twenty pieces of candy corn during October. I remember how intrigued I was as a three year old with candy corn. It resembled the chicken feed my grandfather fed to his chickens. I remember my first encounter with this sugary confectionary treat. My Uncle Harold brought a bag to me one Sunday. At the time I lived with my maternal grandparents and Aunt Julia. My grandmother took the bag from me and told me I could have some later in the week; she put it away where she thought I would not see it. After all ‘out of sight out of mind’. A few days later as I helped my grandfather throw chicken feed around, I remember the bag of candy. I asked my grandmother and reluctantly she gave me some in a bowl after my lunch. I sat on the couch with my cat, Fluffy. Picking up one piece of the candy I looked it over; the white, yellow and orange colors were the prettiest I had ever seen together. I put the first piece in my mouth and thought I never tasted anything so delicious. It was then, it dawned on me; this looks like candy chicken feed. I decided that if chickens can eat their feed off the ground, I could eat my candy corn the same way. I took the bowl of candy and scattered it on the floor. Getting down on all fours, I began to eat the candy from the floor. Fluffy got down on the floor also and began to lick the pieces of the candy. My aunt walked into the room, saw what I was doing and began to laugh. Grandma walked in but instead of laughing, she yelled that I was eating off the floor and that the cat was licking the candy pieces. I looked at her and told her that I was playing chicken. She then began to chuckle.
This event was told to me by my aunt when I was a teenager. I found it to be a fond memory of my childhood; a happy memory I did not want to forget. Each year, since I heard the story, I would purchase a bag of candy corn; count out thirty pieces (as an adult it became twenty); I would sit quietly, eat one piece at a time as I let my mind wander with pleasant memories of my grandmother and my aunt.
Some say that don’t like candy corn; they find it to be terrible tasting or just plain gross; but to me, it is a connection even to this day of two people who cared for me for five years of my life. On October 30th, I will put twenty pieces of the confectionary into a little dish, sit quietly and eat one piece at a time while I reflect on that day when I was three years old. As I think about it right now, I may include thoughts of the person who gave me my first bag of that candy, my uncle.
Until next time….enjoy Candy Corn day. Enjoy the piece following on this time of year.
THE STORY
©Scottie-ann Murphy
The old house looked deserted
Leaves covered the lawn
A carpet of red, orange, gold and brown
Limbs from the trees cast eerie shadows on the sidewalk
The full moon the only light shows me the way
Cautiously I walk up the weather worn steps
My hand holding tightly to the banister
A black cat rests motionless on an old metal glider
It lets out a loud ‘meow’ as I step up to the porch.
Jumping down from where it sits….the feline saunters over to me
Rubs against my leg….then runs off into the night
I debate whether I should knock on the door
My heart races….I can hear the thumping of each beat
I stand staring at the door wondering what to do
Taking a deep breath I knock….anticipate if anyone will answer
Wild thoughts spin through my mind on what or who may lurk inside
Will my friends read my text message on where I had gone
And what I planned to do…..will they come looking for me?
Perhaps I should not have taken the dare to come alone
Wondering and waiting…..i feel apprehensive
Seems like I have been standing here for hours….not minutes
The door suddenly opens….a tall menacing figure stands at the threshold
“Welcome, we’ve been waiting for you”, the voice deep and gravely
He moves to one side…. motions me to come inside
I slowly step into the foyer…..the house is dark....no sounds can be heard
A chill runs down my spine….I try not to show fear….i bite my lower lip
There is no turning back…..or is there?
A question pops into my brain…..did I make a rash decision
Is the story about this strange house and its’ mysterious inhabitants
Worth the price the newspaper will pay? I ponder the answer…..
I mentioned in a prior blog how I enjoy this season of the year; also mentioned how I quietly sit and consume twenty pieces of candy corn during October. I remember how intrigued I was as a three year old with candy corn. It resembled the chicken feed my grandfather fed to his chickens. I remember my first encounter with this sugary confectionary treat. My Uncle Harold brought a bag to me one Sunday. At the time I lived with my maternal grandparents and Aunt Julia. My grandmother took the bag from me and told me I could have some later in the week; she put it away where she thought I would not see it. After all ‘out of sight out of mind’. A few days later as I helped my grandfather throw chicken feed around, I remember the bag of candy. I asked my grandmother and reluctantly she gave me some in a bowl after my lunch. I sat on the couch with my cat, Fluffy. Picking up one piece of the candy I looked it over; the white, yellow and orange colors were the prettiest I had ever seen together. I put the first piece in my mouth and thought I never tasted anything so delicious. It was then, it dawned on me; this looks like candy chicken feed. I decided that if chickens can eat their feed off the ground, I could eat my candy corn the same way. I took the bowl of candy and scattered it on the floor. Getting down on all fours, I began to eat the candy from the floor. Fluffy got down on the floor also and began to lick the pieces of the candy. My aunt walked into the room, saw what I was doing and began to laugh. Grandma walked in but instead of laughing, she yelled that I was eating off the floor and that the cat was licking the candy pieces. I looked at her and told her that I was playing chicken. She then began to chuckle.
This event was told to me by my aunt when I was a teenager. I found it to be a fond memory of my childhood; a happy memory I did not want to forget. Each year, since I heard the story, I would purchase a bag of candy corn; count out thirty pieces (as an adult it became twenty); I would sit quietly, eat one piece at a time as I let my mind wander with pleasant memories of my grandmother and my aunt.
Some say that don’t like candy corn; they find it to be terrible tasting or just plain gross; but to me, it is a connection even to this day of two people who cared for me for five years of my life. On October 30th, I will put twenty pieces of the confectionary into a little dish, sit quietly and eat one piece at a time while I reflect on that day when I was three years old. As I think about it right now, I may include thoughts of the person who gave me my first bag of that candy, my uncle.
Until next time….enjoy Candy Corn day. Enjoy the piece following on this time of year.
THE STORY
©Scottie-ann Murphy
The old house looked deserted
Leaves covered the lawn
A carpet of red, orange, gold and brown
Limbs from the trees cast eerie shadows on the sidewalk
The full moon the only light shows me the way
Cautiously I walk up the weather worn steps
My hand holding tightly to the banister
A black cat rests motionless on an old metal glider
It lets out a loud ‘meow’ as I step up to the porch.
Jumping down from where it sits….the feline saunters over to me
Rubs against my leg….then runs off into the night
I debate whether I should knock on the door
My heart races….I can hear the thumping of each beat
I stand staring at the door wondering what to do
Taking a deep breath I knock….anticipate if anyone will answer
Wild thoughts spin through my mind on what or who may lurk inside
Will my friends read my text message on where I had gone
And what I planned to do…..will they come looking for me?
Perhaps I should not have taken the dare to come alone
Wondering and waiting…..i feel apprehensive
Seems like I have been standing here for hours….not minutes
The door suddenly opens….a tall menacing figure stands at the threshold
“Welcome, we’ve been waiting for you”, the voice deep and gravely
He moves to one side…. motions me to come inside
I slowly step into the foyer…..the house is dark....no sounds can be heard
A chill runs down my spine….I try not to show fear….i bite my lower lip
There is no turning back…..or is there?
A question pops into my brain…..did I make a rash decision
Is the story about this strange house and its’ mysterious inhabitants
Worth the price the newspaper will pay? I ponder the answer…..
Friday, October 23, 2015
TIS THE SEASON FOR HALLOWEEN
I am a fan of the month of October or as I call it the ‘Season of Halloween’. The colors of black and orange or black and purple are my favorite to wear this time of year. Shirts with a skull, skeleton, black cat or witch are what I like to don. It is during this time of year I purchase a bag of candy corn and eat twenty pieces in memory of my grandmother Hazel and my Aunt Julia. There is a story behind this of course but perhaps will save that for another time. Last year I found a candy item I had forgotten about that I use to get in my trick-or-treat bag; peanut butter kisses wrapped in black and orange wax type paper. They are sort of like the candy called Mary Janes which have a peanut butter center around a honey type coating. I purchased a bag of those kisses last Halloween and passed them out with mini-candy bars at the American Legion and VFW parties. A few people told me they had not seen the kisses in years.
This year I have my give-away candy ready for trips to the VFW, Legion and Amvets. I do what is called reverse trick-or-treating by going to places to pass out treats. Adults enjoy getting a little something not just the children.
Halloween is not just a holiday for the kids anymore it seems. I will dress up early that morning, since it is on a Saturday. Patiently I will wait for someone to ring my doorbell; I enjoy seeing the different costumes on not only humans but our four legged friends. Now I wonder, do I have a milk bone or two on hand?
Halloween brings the time of year I enjoy to read more paranormal type stories and write my own poems on the holiday. A few years ago I penned the ‘flash fiction’ story listed below. I dedicated to a friend I knew where I lived up north as she, like me, is truly a Halloween person.
Until next time, which will be in a day or two….enjoy the story.
PERKING UP THE SPIRITS
©Scottie-ann Murphy
Swoosh. Under a starry moonlit sky, Clarisse rushed off like a gust of wind; a perfect autumn night clear, crisp and a tad on the chilly side. She had donned her cloak to keep warm. On her way to meet with friends for a night of fun, drinks and dancing the night away, Clarisse could hardly wait to arrive at the club. After her hectic week at work, she needed to unwind and regenerate her troubled soul.
Although being the youngest in her circle of friends, Clarisse appeared older at times. She dressed in vintage and retro-styled attire and preferred to drive a stick instead of an automatic.
As she drove on she could not help noticing how the full moon had cast eerie shadows on the ground. The month, after all, being October when all things strange and bizarre occurred. Clarisse enjoyed this month; not only because her birthday came in October, but because her favorite holiday celebrated….Halloween. Clarisse enjoyed watching horror movies, going to haunted houses, taking spooky hay rides and walking through corn mazes. She considered some of the holiday entertainment lame but she kept her opinions to herself.
Clarisse thought about what could possibly transpire that evening at her favorite haunt The Frank-n-Stein Dive.
She wondered if she would meet anyone of interest to hold tight when she danced. Would Mr. Right be waiting or just Mr. Right Now? The only current male in her life the past few months was Toby, her black feline. As she continued her journey, she salivated as she pictured holding a goblet of Hag O’Brew in her hand. The blood red colored drink made with cranberries, raspberries, cherries and other ingredients would hit the spot and perk her spirits.
Approaching Crow Street, Clarisse noticed only a few parking places left in front of the club. She zoomed in for a landing at the curb, jumped off her broom then placed it against the parking meter. Circling her right index finger three times clockwise and chanting an incantation, the broom entwined with the meter. Only she could break the spell to retrieve her ride when the evening ended. Another chant and one counter clockwise circle of the finger, produced five hours of meter time.
Clarisse walked to the door of the building, the greeter said hello as he held open the door. She noticed his pearly whites gleaming in the darkened night. Once inside, she made her way down the hall to the coat check area, handed her wrap to the attendant and waited for her claim ticket. Clarisse stood mesmerized by the ruby eyes embedded in the silver skull that hung on the velvet ribbon around the attendant’s neck. She made a mental note to inquire where the woman purchased such an intriguing piece of jewelry.
Clarisse took the claim check from the young woman put it in her black velvet bag and walked through the dimly lit corridor to the night club area. Music from the band penetrated her ears. The quintet for the evening, The Bat Viper Five, was playing their new song, “Just a Nibble on the Wrist.” Clarisse hoped they would play that slow haunting melody again during the evening when she had a willing dance partner. She stood at the main room entrance and looked around for her friends. She spotted Darcella and Magalene at a table near the back. Two monstrous brutes sat with them. Darcella waved once she saw Clarisse maneuvering to the rear of the room through a maze of tables
“Hello” a deep voice said behind Clarisse. She stopped dead in her tracks. The man bent down seductively whispering in her ear, “Will you save the last dance for me?”
Clarisse could feel the man’s hot breath on her neck. She felt as if she were on fire. She turned to face him. Staring up in the dark blue eyes of the handsome man, she did not answer his question, but gave him an alluring smile. Doing an about face she continued heading toward her friends.
She took five steps stopped abruptly and turned around. The man had moved on to his next victim. Clarisse chuckled to herself and wonder how many unwilling suspects that evening Count Vronski would try to pick up using that cheesy line.
This year I have my give-away candy ready for trips to the VFW, Legion and Amvets. I do what is called reverse trick-or-treating by going to places to pass out treats. Adults enjoy getting a little something not just the children.
Halloween is not just a holiday for the kids anymore it seems. I will dress up early that morning, since it is on a Saturday. Patiently I will wait for someone to ring my doorbell; I enjoy seeing the different costumes on not only humans but our four legged friends. Now I wonder, do I have a milk bone or two on hand?
Halloween brings the time of year I enjoy to read more paranormal type stories and write my own poems on the holiday. A few years ago I penned the ‘flash fiction’ story listed below. I dedicated to a friend I knew where I lived up north as she, like me, is truly a Halloween person.
Until next time, which will be in a day or two….enjoy the story.
PERKING UP THE SPIRITS
©Scottie-ann Murphy
Swoosh. Under a starry moonlit sky, Clarisse rushed off like a gust of wind; a perfect autumn night clear, crisp and a tad on the chilly side. She had donned her cloak to keep warm. On her way to meet with friends for a night of fun, drinks and dancing the night away, Clarisse could hardly wait to arrive at the club. After her hectic week at work, she needed to unwind and regenerate her troubled soul.
Although being the youngest in her circle of friends, Clarisse appeared older at times. She dressed in vintage and retro-styled attire and preferred to drive a stick instead of an automatic.
As she drove on she could not help noticing how the full moon had cast eerie shadows on the ground. The month, after all, being October when all things strange and bizarre occurred. Clarisse enjoyed this month; not only because her birthday came in October, but because her favorite holiday celebrated….Halloween. Clarisse enjoyed watching horror movies, going to haunted houses, taking spooky hay rides and walking through corn mazes. She considered some of the holiday entertainment lame but she kept her opinions to herself.
Clarisse thought about what could possibly transpire that evening at her favorite haunt The Frank-n-Stein Dive.
She wondered if she would meet anyone of interest to hold tight when she danced. Would Mr. Right be waiting or just Mr. Right Now? The only current male in her life the past few months was Toby, her black feline. As she continued her journey, she salivated as she pictured holding a goblet of Hag O’Brew in her hand. The blood red colored drink made with cranberries, raspberries, cherries and other ingredients would hit the spot and perk her spirits.
Approaching Crow Street, Clarisse noticed only a few parking places left in front of the club. She zoomed in for a landing at the curb, jumped off her broom then placed it against the parking meter. Circling her right index finger three times clockwise and chanting an incantation, the broom entwined with the meter. Only she could break the spell to retrieve her ride when the evening ended. Another chant and one counter clockwise circle of the finger, produced five hours of meter time.
Clarisse walked to the door of the building, the greeter said hello as he held open the door. She noticed his pearly whites gleaming in the darkened night. Once inside, she made her way down the hall to the coat check area, handed her wrap to the attendant and waited for her claim ticket. Clarisse stood mesmerized by the ruby eyes embedded in the silver skull that hung on the velvet ribbon around the attendant’s neck. She made a mental note to inquire where the woman purchased such an intriguing piece of jewelry.
Clarisse took the claim check from the young woman put it in her black velvet bag and walked through the dimly lit corridor to the night club area. Music from the band penetrated her ears. The quintet for the evening, The Bat Viper Five, was playing their new song, “Just a Nibble on the Wrist.” Clarisse hoped they would play that slow haunting melody again during the evening when she had a willing dance partner. She stood at the main room entrance and looked around for her friends. She spotted Darcella and Magalene at a table near the back. Two monstrous brutes sat with them. Darcella waved once she saw Clarisse maneuvering to the rear of the room through a maze of tables
“Hello” a deep voice said behind Clarisse. She stopped dead in her tracks. The man bent down seductively whispering in her ear, “Will you save the last dance for me?”
Clarisse could feel the man’s hot breath on her neck. She felt as if she were on fire. She turned to face him. Staring up in the dark blue eyes of the handsome man, she did not answer his question, but gave him an alluring smile. Doing an about face she continued heading toward her friends.
She took five steps stopped abruptly and turned around. The man had moved on to his next victim. Clarisse chuckled to herself and wonder how many unwilling suspects that evening Count Vronski would try to pick up using that cheesy line.
Saturday, October 10, 2015
ONE HOLIDAY AT A TIME
As of today, Halloween is twenty-one days away. Thanksgiving is forty-seven days away and Christmas seventy-six. Yes people are already posting how many days till Christmas on social media. I like to take holidays, one at a time. Presently I am celebrating the season of Halloween. The fall is a fun season for me. Although living now in the south, I can honestly say I miss fall; not the cold days but the days of Indian Summer. I enjoy seeing Mother Nature’s handiwork as she paints the trees with brilliants shades of burgundy, orange, gold, yellow and red. The fallen leaves make a colorful carpet on the ground that eventually will turn to dark brown. Living up north, I always enjoyed going to a farmer stand for apples and fresh made apple cider. Visiting a haunted house or barn, going on a haunted hay ride and walking through a haunted maze were fun activities. My favorite colors to wear during the Halloween season, black and orange or black and yellow. Candy corn reigns supreme as the sweet confectionary treat. As I grew older, I can only eat twenty pieces. I recently pondered what one could do with left over candy corn. Low and behold, internet research provided many interesting ideas from using candy corn to make adult beverages to using the candy for baking and craft items. There is even a wacky/weird holiday on October 30 called National Candy Corn Day. This seems like a fun activity for me to pass out bags of candy corn at one of the veteran’s clubs where I hold membership. Everyone enjoys getting a little something for free, so why not make it a reason to celebrate. I only hope I can find an appropriate outfit for the celebration.
As many stores are already or have been displaying their Christmas items, we should remember that fall holds many other holidays. October brings us Columbus Day, National Candy Corn Day and Halloween. November not only brings us Thanksgiving but we have Veteran’s Day which will be in thirty-two days; Pearl Harbor Day, December is only fifty-eight days from today and the Army-Navy football game sixty-three days.
As I previous mentioned, I am taking ONE HOLIDAY at a time.
The merchants need to take it, one holiday at a time. Yesterday while out shopping I noticed employees setting up Christmas items in the same area where I seen ghosts, pumpkins, witches and black cats. I had hoped to find a turkey, Indian or Pilgrim item, but none to be had. We all live in a fast paced world, but we just need to stop, take a deep breath once in a while and smell the roses, or in this case since it is Halloween Season, the candy corn. November first, put away those ghosts, goblins, witches and zombies bring out the Indians, Pilgrims, Capricornia and turkeys; leave the pumpkins and scarecrows out for Thanksgiving. Don’t forget on November 11th to proudly fly your flag in honor of Veteran’s Day.
Till next time…dress up on October 31st in a costume, pour a glass of apple cider, have a few pumpkin flavored or apple-caramel donuts and eat some candy corn.
As many stores are already or have been displaying their Christmas items, we should remember that fall holds many other holidays. October brings us Columbus Day, National Candy Corn Day and Halloween. November not only brings us Thanksgiving but we have Veteran’s Day which will be in thirty-two days; Pearl Harbor Day, December is only fifty-eight days from today and the Army-Navy football game sixty-three days.
As I previous mentioned, I am taking ONE HOLIDAY at a time.
The merchants need to take it, one holiday at a time. Yesterday while out shopping I noticed employees setting up Christmas items in the same area where I seen ghosts, pumpkins, witches and black cats. I had hoped to find a turkey, Indian or Pilgrim item, but none to be had. We all live in a fast paced world, but we just need to stop, take a deep breath once in a while and smell the roses, or in this case since it is Halloween Season, the candy corn. November first, put away those ghosts, goblins, witches and zombies bring out the Indians, Pilgrims, Capricornia and turkeys; leave the pumpkins and scarecrows out for Thanksgiving. Don’t forget on November 11th to proudly fly your flag in honor of Veteran’s Day.
Till next time…dress up on October 31st in a costume, pour a glass of apple cider, have a few pumpkin flavored or apple-caramel donuts and eat some candy corn.
Wednesday, May 20, 2015
MEMORIAL DAY
Memorial Day holiday weekend is here.
Many consider this the first official weekend of the beginning of summer, even though the first day of summer is a few weeks later.
For some, Memorial Day weekend is a chance to take a trip to the shore or beach, an opportunity to go camping, have a picnic in the park or enjoy a cook-out in the back yard. Many will get together to watch the Indy Race. The holiday means something different to everyone.
As a veteran, the Memorial Day is a day to honor those who paid the ultimate sacrifice and now slumber under grassy covered mounds. The day is one where flags are flown at half mast. There will be parades to honor those fallen heroes, services at gravesides or at a veteran’s club. Speeches will be given by key note speakers at many of these observances and someone someplace may read John McCrae’s poem “In Flanders Fields”. Recently I learned that John McCrae was a Lieutenant Colonel in the Canadian Army. This poem is considered one of the most memorable war poems ever written. As I read the poem during the week prior to Memorial Day I find the words moving on how the poppies grow between the crosses of those who gave their lives. Years ago I wrote a poem for Memorial Day where I mentioned the poppies being the color of the blood of those who died and were buried in Flanders Fields.
Over the years I have composed many a patriotic poem for Memorial Day. Ninety-nine percent of the poems have been dedicated to members of either my family or my husbands. A few have been dedicated to a family member of a friend or acquaintance or dedicated to a friend who served in the military and has passed on. This year will be no exception as I stand at the podium on Memorial Day at services and read a new poem dedicated to a member of one of the veteran’s organizations of which I am a member.
Sometime this weekend, I suggest you attend a Memorial Day service in your local area. It only takes no more than an hour out of your weekend. Buy a poppy if available; fly your flag; wear your red, white and blue and remember this weekend is about those who gave their all so we could enjoy the barbeques, cookouts, picnics and Indy Race.
Till next time….remember FREEDOM IS NOT FREE.
WITHOUT HESITATION…THEY GAVE THEIR ALL
Many consider this the first official weekend of the beginning of summer, even though the first day of summer is a few weeks later.
For some, Memorial Day weekend is a chance to take a trip to the shore or beach, an opportunity to go camping, have a picnic in the park or enjoy a cook-out in the back yard. Many will get together to watch the Indy Race. The holiday means something different to everyone.
As a veteran, the Memorial Day is a day to honor those who paid the ultimate sacrifice and now slumber under grassy covered mounds. The day is one where flags are flown at half mast. There will be parades to honor those fallen heroes, services at gravesides or at a veteran’s club. Speeches will be given by key note speakers at many of these observances and someone someplace may read John McCrae’s poem “In Flanders Fields”. Recently I learned that John McCrae was a Lieutenant Colonel in the Canadian Army. This poem is considered one of the most memorable war poems ever written. As I read the poem during the week prior to Memorial Day I find the words moving on how the poppies grow between the crosses of those who gave their lives. Years ago I wrote a poem for Memorial Day where I mentioned the poppies being the color of the blood of those who died and were buried in Flanders Fields.
Over the years I have composed many a patriotic poem for Memorial Day. Ninety-nine percent of the poems have been dedicated to members of either my family or my husbands. A few have been dedicated to a family member of a friend or acquaintance or dedicated to a friend who served in the military and has passed on. This year will be no exception as I stand at the podium on Memorial Day at services and read a new poem dedicated to a member of one of the veteran’s organizations of which I am a member.
Sometime this weekend, I suggest you attend a Memorial Day service in your local area. It only takes no more than an hour out of your weekend. Buy a poppy if available; fly your flag; wear your red, white and blue and remember this weekend is about those who gave their all so we could enjoy the barbeques, cookouts, picnics and Indy Race.
Till next time….remember FREEDOM IS NOT FREE.
GIVING ALL WITHOUT HESITATION
©
Scottie-ann Murphy
MAY WE ALWAYS REMEMBER AND NEVER FORGET
ALL WHO ANSWERED THEIR COUNTRY’S CALL
ON NONNATIVE LANDS THEY FOUGHT FOR FREEDOM AND LIBERTY
AT TIMES UNCERTAIN OF HOW THEIR DAY WOULD END,
GIVING THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICED
MANY PERISHING UPON THE BATTLE FIELD
THEIR BLOOD SOAKING INTO FOREIGN SOIL
WE CALL THEM
‘HEROS’
UPON THEIR FINAL RESTING PLACE
A FLAG IS PLACED LETTING EVERYONE KNOW THEY
PROUDLY SERVED UNCLE SAM
TODAY….A GRATEFUL NATION WILL UNITE TOGETHER
TO PAY HONOR AND TRIBUTE TO THOSE WHO
HAVE GONE TO THEIR FINAL REST
FLAGS LOWERED TO HALF MAST
WE BOW OUR HEADS FOR A MOMENT OF SILENCE
THE RIFLE SQUAD FIRES A TWENTY-ONE GUN SALUTE
AND THE BUGLER WILL SOUND “TAPS”
FOR THOSE MEN AND WOMEN WHO SERVED WITH
DISTINCTION….HONOR….AND PRIDE
Wednesday, April 1, 2015
Hello to April
Hello to April. Goodbye to March that in some parts of the country did not got out like a lamb. April, I find most interesting. The first day is known as April Fool’s Day. I decided to find out more on this day via internet research. How interesting the information was to me. April is also the month where we in the United States have to pay the piper or Uncle Sam by filling out those dreaded tax forms. I always thought there should be a symbol of sorts on the calendar for that day which would be a dollar bill with wings to show how our money has to fly away from us. But then that is just my thought on the subject. Easter is celebrated in April. One of the most holy days of Christians. Easter Sunday always means to me the actual first day of spring (even though March is the official start of the season). Many will don a fancy outfit of a pastel color, go to church and have a large Easter meal. I always enjoyed getting a new Easter bonnet to wear, a new dress and new dressy shoes. As I got older, I adorned my home with hyacinths, a lily and some tulips. Last year I got an orchid corsage to wear. April showers they say bring May flowers; a rhyme I recall from my youth. As I mention rhyme, let us remember April is National Poetry Month. Thirty days to celebrate the genre of poetry. The past few years, I took a challenge to write a poem a day in honor of the month. This year will be no different. I plan to continue my goal of writing one poem each day (number of lines is not an issue); what the issue is taking the time to sit down and compose. I must say this is not an easy quest. As of this afternoon I have not yet composed Poem One for Day One. Guess this my April Fool’s on myself. As you think about the month ahead with warmer temperatures, spring cleaning, spring break for some and the snowbirds returning home after their winter in the south, Christmas is only eight months away.
Until next time….enjoy your Easter holiday. Eat some jelly beans, a marshmallow peep or two and a cream filled chocolate egg. I hope to get a milk chocolate bunny in my basket so I can eat off the ears.
NATIONAL POETRY MONTH AGAIN
National Poetry Month arrives with little fanfare
No big announcements on news channels,
articles in the local papers
or mention on social media sites…..
(Ah but I will do so….a post to inform friends and the world)
Thirty days…dedicated to the genre of poetry….
Reading of odes, rhyme, free verse, ballads, limericks
The creating of new works by poets
A month just to make all aware…poetry is not lost or dead
Poetry is alive….patiently it waits to be created by the poet
Read by the masses…..recited and heard at poetry readings
Until next time….enjoy your Easter holiday. Eat some jelly beans, a marshmallow peep or two and a cream filled chocolate egg. I hope to get a milk chocolate bunny in my basket so I can eat off the ears.
NATIONAL POETRY MONTH AGAIN
National Poetry Month arrives with little fanfare
No big announcements on news channels,
articles in the local papers
or mention on social media sites…..
(Ah but I will do so….a post to inform friends and the world)
Thirty days…dedicated to the genre of poetry….
Reading of odes, rhyme, free verse, ballads, limericks
The creating of new works by poets
A month just to make all aware…poetry is not lost or dead
Poetry is alive….patiently it waits to be created by the poet
Read by the masses…..recited and heard at poetry readings
Wednesday, March 4, 2015
Hello to March
March is now here. In some parts of the country it has come in like a Lion with all the wintery weather of snow, freezing rain, icy roads and frigid temps. Let’s hope it goes out as they say like a Lamb. In Florida it seems our winter is now over and we are experiencing spring like temperatures. Moving to the south over ten years ago, it took me about three years to get what is called “Florida Blood”. I feel the cold when it is 70 or below. The best temperature for me is 85. Seventeen days till spring. This weekend we will turn the clocks ahead one hour. I never look forward to the time change. It takes me at least a week to two weeks to get use to it. Of course I like turning the clocks ahead as we get more daylight hours. I doubt I accomplish more though but it is a nice thought.
So as I began saying March is now here. It is a month packed with quite a bit, or perhaps here in the ‘Sunshine State’ and the area where I live. A few years ago I penned a poem regarding all March has to offer. First there is setting ahead of the clocks; we all can enjoy the extra hours of daylight. Spring will arrive on the coattails of winter; hoping to bring milder weather to those living in the northern states. St. Patrick’s Day always a fun filled March holiday; everyone is Irish for at least one day a year. Palm Sunday comes on the last Sunday of the month. March 15th is the Ides of March; okay maybe we don’t celebrate it, but another holiday for some. Women’s History Month is celebrated in March. Here in Sebring, Florida, the big race brings spectators to the area. The 63rd Annual Mobil 1 Twelve hours of Sebring takes place on March 21st. Fans will flock to the track when it opens on the 18th.
Many will travel here to Florida for spring break to enjoy our wonderful beaches and other attractions. We must not forget major league baseball teams are in the throes of spring training during March. Basketball fans will pack sports bars and pubs to watch teams as they shoot for three pointers and free throws as March Madness dominates the sporting world. March has a lot to offer to beat the winter blues. Veteran’s belonging to the American Legion can look forward to The American Legion’s 95th birthday in March. (I had no idea how old it was so I checked soures on line). Of course members of the veteran’s organization the Forty and Eight (40&8) have a celebration of that organization in March. They too will be celebrating their 95th birthday.
Ah March has arrived and the doldrums of winter are slowly becoming a memory for some. Don’t let ’Old Man Winter’ get you down. Find something to do to get rid of those winter blues.
Until next time….I looked online to find that one of the wacky/weird holidays today is ‘Toy Solider Day’. As I have a bag of them I planned to send to my grandson, I just may keep them, open them up and play. Next weekend I guess I’ll celebrate the Legion’s birthday by visiting the Legion and seeing if there will be cake. As for celebrating the 40&8 birthday, I know there will be cake (I hope). Happy March to one and all.
So as I began saying March is now here. It is a month packed with quite a bit, or perhaps here in the ‘Sunshine State’ and the area where I live. A few years ago I penned a poem regarding all March has to offer. First there is setting ahead of the clocks; we all can enjoy the extra hours of daylight. Spring will arrive on the coattails of winter; hoping to bring milder weather to those living in the northern states. St. Patrick’s Day always a fun filled March holiday; everyone is Irish for at least one day a year. Palm Sunday comes on the last Sunday of the month. March 15th is the Ides of March; okay maybe we don’t celebrate it, but another holiday for some. Women’s History Month is celebrated in March. Here in Sebring, Florida, the big race brings spectators to the area. The 63rd Annual Mobil 1 Twelve hours of Sebring takes place on March 21st. Fans will flock to the track when it opens on the 18th.
Many will travel here to Florida for spring break to enjoy our wonderful beaches and other attractions. We must not forget major league baseball teams are in the throes of spring training during March. Basketball fans will pack sports bars and pubs to watch teams as they shoot for three pointers and free throws as March Madness dominates the sporting world. March has a lot to offer to beat the winter blues. Veteran’s belonging to the American Legion can look forward to The American Legion’s 95th birthday in March. (I had no idea how old it was so I checked soures on line). Of course members of the veteran’s organization the Forty and Eight (40&8) have a celebration of that organization in March. They too will be celebrating their 95th birthday.
Ah March has arrived and the doldrums of winter are slowly becoming a memory for some. Don’t let ’Old Man Winter’ get you down. Find something to do to get rid of those winter blues.
Until next time….I looked online to find that one of the wacky/weird holidays today is ‘Toy Solider Day’. As I have a bag of them I planned to send to my grandson, I just may keep them, open them up and play. Next weekend I guess I’ll celebrate the Legion’s birthday by visiting the Legion and seeing if there will be cake. As for celebrating the 40&8 birthday, I know there will be cake (I hope). Happy March to one and all.
Thursday, February 12, 2015
Valentine's Day (Part three)
Two more days till Valentine’s Day. I know some people will wait until the last minute to either shop for their ‘special one’ or make dinner reservations someplace. Hopefully many read my last blog and took advantage of a few of my suggestions.
I still am being wowed with little suprises each day from my husband. Yesterday, being the last of the big spenders, he gave me a dozen red roses he got at one of the local stores for under $15.00. They look as good any flowers a florist would deliver. The vase they were put in had been purchased off the “Cancer Research Table” (white elephant table) at the local American Legion. It is not how much you pay to make Valentine’s Day special, it is the thought and creativity behind the thought.
Does it bother me I received the flowers a few days early? No! I can sit at my computer and glance now and then at the lovely arrangement.
Most of the weekly ads for this week all center on Valentine’s Day; the television is saturated with commercials for flowers, jewelry, buying fresh fruit arrangements, chocolate covered strawberries etc…
It would make my head spin on all the options available.
As one who enjoys holidays, I have give-aways for Valetine’s Day also. I made up a little plastic sandwich bag containing a box of conversational hearts, a small heart shaped box with a few chocolate kisses and a card I created on the computer. I have given a few away so far; why you may ask. Well like my give-aways at Christmas, perhaps this may be the only Valentine someone may receive. I may be the only person who was thinking about them and letting them know someone does care about them. The cards have a simple cute verse, not mushy or sentimental. So far everyone had enjoyed getting something they did not expect.
If you have not gotten that ‘special someone’ something as of yet….you have time.
Until next time….enjoy the days of hearts, flowers and chocolates. I know I will.
All I Need
By: Scottie-ann Murphy
I don’t need satin sheets to place upon my bed
I don’t need chandeliers of crystal
Nor does a fancy luxury car or sports car make me happy
Gold, silver, platinum, diamonds, emerals or rubies
Well I don’t need them either
Material things don’t matter to me
All I need is a strong shoulder to lean upon
A hug when I am feeling down
Words of encouragement, love and caring
A person to share sunny days and starry moonlit nights
In other words….all I need is you
I still am being wowed with little suprises each day from my husband. Yesterday, being the last of the big spenders, he gave me a dozen red roses he got at one of the local stores for under $15.00. They look as good any flowers a florist would deliver. The vase they were put in had been purchased off the “Cancer Research Table” (white elephant table) at the local American Legion. It is not how much you pay to make Valentine’s Day special, it is the thought and creativity behind the thought.
Does it bother me I received the flowers a few days early? No! I can sit at my computer and glance now and then at the lovely arrangement.
Most of the weekly ads for this week all center on Valentine’s Day; the television is saturated with commercials for flowers, jewelry, buying fresh fruit arrangements, chocolate covered strawberries etc…
It would make my head spin on all the options available.
As one who enjoys holidays, I have give-aways for Valetine’s Day also. I made up a little plastic sandwich bag containing a box of conversational hearts, a small heart shaped box with a few chocolate kisses and a card I created on the computer. I have given a few away so far; why you may ask. Well like my give-aways at Christmas, perhaps this may be the only Valentine someone may receive. I may be the only person who was thinking about them and letting them know someone does care about them. The cards have a simple cute verse, not mushy or sentimental. So far everyone had enjoyed getting something they did not expect.
If you have not gotten that ‘special someone’ something as of yet….you have time.
Until next time….enjoy the days of hearts, flowers and chocolates. I know I will.
All I Need
By: Scottie-ann Murphy
I don’t need satin sheets to place upon my bed
I don’t need chandeliers of crystal
Nor does a fancy luxury car or sports car make me happy
Gold, silver, platinum, diamonds, emerals or rubies
Well I don’t need them either
Material things don’t matter to me
All I need is a strong shoulder to lean upon
A hug when I am feeling down
Words of encouragement, love and caring
A person to share sunny days and starry moonlit nights
In other words….all I need is you
Monday, February 9, 2015
Valentine's Day (Part Two)
So it is now February 9th; five more days till Valentine’s Day.
One does not have to go all out and spend a fortune on that special person. There are many ways to show someone you care each and everyday. In my opinion you should tell that special one how you feel everyday and not just one day a year.
It is nice to be spontaneous at different times in the year; but if you are the type who wants to bestow affections on February 14th you can do it without taking out a loan or going into debt.
Best to do your research before you purchase. Check out flower prices at places besides a florist; try to make your own Valentine card; if you belong to a fraternal or veteran’s organization, see if they are sponsoring a dinner or event on Valentine’s Day.
I belong to a few of these organizations and found two having a dinner and dance. I pieked the best price one and purchased tickets to take my husband out for a dinner on Valentine’s Day. The cost of the tickets under $20.00. I figure the evening out with beverages included (a glass or two of wine) will come to less then $50.00. A good price as there will also be music for dancing. YES…I AM LAST OF THE BIG SPENDERS.
I mentioned in my last blog about what my husband did last year to surprise me for Valentine’s Day. Each day beginning on February 7th, he gave me a little surprise gift each day. The little tokens ranged from boxes of conversational hearts, a water globe with a heart inside, tee shirt with hearts, small teddy bear, book of love poems etc…The book of love poems was downloaded to my Kindle device (think it was one of the free downloads). This year he wanted to outdo last year, so each day since February 1st he has given me something each day. Again the items ranged from heart shaped earrings, heart shaped box, teddy bear etc….He may not be spending a lot of money but it is a romantic thoughtful gesture. I have enjoyed each day’s surprise.
There is a funny story about Valentine’s Day this year. I had given out a copy of my love book of poems I have had published. The copies were sort of a door prize at a fundraiser I had worked at this past weekend. The one recipient of one book is the spouse of another person who worked the fundraiser dinner. He handed her the book, then said no give it back so I can wrap it up for you. I decided to let him know where a thrift store was located to get an inexpensive card. I helped another individual by providing where a good deal could be found on chocolates and yet another man I gave him a place to find inexpensive flowers.
All one needs is to be creative for Valentine’s Day. Remember though with the holiday falling on a Saturday, restaurants may be busy with dinners. So why not do a Valentine’s Day breakfast or lunch. Even do an early celebration and go out to dinner during this week; pick up flowers before the price goes up or look for that special on boxes of chocolates.
Whatever you decide to do to show that special person you care….remember it is the thought that counts and not the cost.
SIMPLE THINGS
It is the simple things that matter most in our relationship…….
A walk on the beach…..
A drive in the country…..
Watching the sunset on a summer’s day
Sharing popcorn as we sit side by side
On the sofa watching a movie
Going out for a pizza mid-week
Giving one another a gift for no special reason
It is the smile you give when happy
Hearty laugh at a joke I make
A warm hug when I feel blue
And a sweet kiss in the morning
The joy we share each together
These are the things that matter most
Simple,
Uncomplicated
On this day of hearts and flowers
The most simplest thing I can do is say
“Thank-you for being you
and bringing happiness to my life”
One does not have to go all out and spend a fortune on that special person. There are many ways to show someone you care each and everyday. In my opinion you should tell that special one how you feel everyday and not just one day a year.
It is nice to be spontaneous at different times in the year; but if you are the type who wants to bestow affections on February 14th you can do it without taking out a loan or going into debt.
Best to do your research before you purchase. Check out flower prices at places besides a florist; try to make your own Valentine card; if you belong to a fraternal or veteran’s organization, see if they are sponsoring a dinner or event on Valentine’s Day.
I belong to a few of these organizations and found two having a dinner and dance. I pieked the best price one and purchased tickets to take my husband out for a dinner on Valentine’s Day. The cost of the tickets under $20.00. I figure the evening out with beverages included (a glass or two of wine) will come to less then $50.00. A good price as there will also be music for dancing. YES…I AM LAST OF THE BIG SPENDERS.
I mentioned in my last blog about what my husband did last year to surprise me for Valentine’s Day. Each day beginning on February 7th, he gave me a little surprise gift each day. The little tokens ranged from boxes of conversational hearts, a water globe with a heart inside, tee shirt with hearts, small teddy bear, book of love poems etc…The book of love poems was downloaded to my Kindle device (think it was one of the free downloads). This year he wanted to outdo last year, so each day since February 1st he has given me something each day. Again the items ranged from heart shaped earrings, heart shaped box, teddy bear etc….He may not be spending a lot of money but it is a romantic thoughtful gesture. I have enjoyed each day’s surprise.
There is a funny story about Valentine’s Day this year. I had given out a copy of my love book of poems I have had published. The copies were sort of a door prize at a fundraiser I had worked at this past weekend. The one recipient of one book is the spouse of another person who worked the fundraiser dinner. He handed her the book, then said no give it back so I can wrap it up for you. I decided to let him know where a thrift store was located to get an inexpensive card. I helped another individual by providing where a good deal could be found on chocolates and yet another man I gave him a place to find inexpensive flowers.
All one needs is to be creative for Valentine’s Day. Remember though with the holiday falling on a Saturday, restaurants may be busy with dinners. So why not do a Valentine’s Day breakfast or lunch. Even do an early celebration and go out to dinner during this week; pick up flowers before the price goes up or look for that special on boxes of chocolates.
Whatever you decide to do to show that special person you care….remember it is the thought that counts and not the cost.
By: Scottie-ann Murphy
A walk on the beach…..
A drive in the country…..
Watching the sunset on a summer’s day
Sharing popcorn as we sit side by side
On the sofa watching a movie
Going out for a pizza mid-week
Giving one another a gift for no special reason
It is the smile you give when happy
Hearty laugh at a joke I make
A warm hug when I feel blue
And a sweet kiss in the morning
The joy we share each together
These are the things that matter most
Simple,
Uncomplicated
On this day of hearts and flowers
The most simplest thing I can do is say
“Thank-you for being you
and bringing happiness to my life”
Sunday, February 1, 2015
Valentine's Day 2015 (Part I)
February arrives suddenly, the second month of the year. I wonder how did January sped by so quickly. It just seems as if the New Year just begun and now a new month is here.
As I look at my February calendar I find it to be filled with quite a few holidays and events. First the Super Bowl being played on the first of February. Parties and celebrations being held at home and sports bars everywhere. February second little Punxsutawney Phil comes of his hiding spot to determine if there will be en early spring or six more weeks of winter weather.
Of course I have a birthday in February which is cause to celebrate. This year my birthday falls on a holday, Presidents Day. Mardi Gras comes on the seventeenth and Lent begins the next day.
Valentine’s Day, the day of hearts, flowers and chocolates, will be celebrated on the fourteenth. This year the day falls on a Saturday.
The stores have been displaying Valentine’s Day merchandise since after the first of the year. Every store from dollar stores, department stores, grocery stores and discount stores have aisles filled wirh balloons, teddy bears, chocolates in heart shaped boxes, jewelry just to name a few items. The thrift/secondhand stores have even gotten into the merchandising of Valentine’s Day. While pursuing the lookout for apothecary jars for my daughter, I have seen how these stores set up appealing displays to catch the eye of the shopper. One store even had a basket filled with Valentine cards with the words “To my Wife”. I could not help looking at them. Lovely sentimental words inside; a heart or rose on the front of the card. Each priced for a quarter. I noticed the original price ranged from two dollars to three. What a bargain. No doubt some thrifty husband will see them and perhaps pick up on for his wife. I plan stop by that store again closer to the holiday to see if any cards remain.
Valentine’s Day is the day we are to remember the one with hold dear in our heart and love by the giving of some romantic gesture. Each year, as one who composes poetry, I try hard to write a poem for my husband. This year I have decided not to sit and agonize over what to say in a poem that already has not been said prior. As of yet, I have no other ideas but hope to come up something, after all I have thirteen days to do so.
The next few blogs will be all about the day of love, hearts and flowers. Perhaps the blogs will give someone an idea to come up something different and unique to surprise the one they love on the second Saturday of this month.
Keep reading the next few postings and see if something comes to mind.
Last year my husband did the sweetest thing the seven days leading up to February 14th. What you ask….stayed tuned to this blog for the next installment of Valentine’s Day 2015 to find out.
Until next time….for all you thrifty individuals, hit the dollar store or local thrift store to find a gift for that person you love.
As I look at my February calendar I find it to be filled with quite a few holidays and events. First the Super Bowl being played on the first of February. Parties and celebrations being held at home and sports bars everywhere. February second little Punxsutawney Phil comes of his hiding spot to determine if there will be en early spring or six more weeks of winter weather.
Of course I have a birthday in February which is cause to celebrate. This year my birthday falls on a holday, Presidents Day. Mardi Gras comes on the seventeenth and Lent begins the next day.
Valentine’s Day, the day of hearts, flowers and chocolates, will be celebrated on the fourteenth. This year the day falls on a Saturday.
The stores have been displaying Valentine’s Day merchandise since after the first of the year. Every store from dollar stores, department stores, grocery stores and discount stores have aisles filled wirh balloons, teddy bears, chocolates in heart shaped boxes, jewelry just to name a few items. The thrift/secondhand stores have even gotten into the merchandising of Valentine’s Day. While pursuing the lookout for apothecary jars for my daughter, I have seen how these stores set up appealing displays to catch the eye of the shopper. One store even had a basket filled with Valentine cards with the words “To my Wife”. I could not help looking at them. Lovely sentimental words inside; a heart or rose on the front of the card. Each priced for a quarter. I noticed the original price ranged from two dollars to three. What a bargain. No doubt some thrifty husband will see them and perhaps pick up on for his wife. I plan stop by that store again closer to the holiday to see if any cards remain.
Valentine’s Day is the day we are to remember the one with hold dear in our heart and love by the giving of some romantic gesture. Each year, as one who composes poetry, I try hard to write a poem for my husband. This year I have decided not to sit and agonize over what to say in a poem that already has not been said prior. As of yet, I have no other ideas but hope to come up something, after all I have thirteen days to do so.
The next few blogs will be all about the day of love, hearts and flowers. Perhaps the blogs will give someone an idea to come up something different and unique to surprise the one they love on the second Saturday of this month.
Keep reading the next few postings and see if something comes to mind.
Last year my husband did the sweetest thing the seven days leading up to February 14th. What you ask….stayed tuned to this blog for the next installment of Valentine’s Day 2015 to find out.
Until next time….for all you thrifty individuals, hit the dollar store or local thrift store to find a gift for that person you love.
Tuesday, January 20, 2015
Packing for Travel
NOTE ABOUT MY BLOG: I write my blog in a down to earth manner as if I was sitting down talking with you in person. I like to ‘ramble’ as I call it about things that are going on at the moment or things going on in my life. This week I wrote about what it is like to travel these days with all our electronics.
Last Wednesday I packed for a four day trip that would be from Thursday to Sunday. I knew what items of clothing I needed to take but unsure of what else to included. The weather app on my IPhone gave me the five day forecast to pack accordingly. Wednesday evening I put my travel bag of clothes and shoes in the car. Thursday all I would need to place in the trunk my bag of toiletries and the tote bag with the must have electronic devices my husband and I need with us. For some they aren’t a must need, but to us these are essential. These must items for him includes his cell phone and his tablet which has his favorite games and the Kindle app with his library. My must have item is my Kindle Fire as my cell is always carried in my purse. I need my Kindle as I must read before falling asleep. At one time I have two or three books going (but that is another blog for another time). The tote bag I have is small but the Kindle fits inside perfectly as does hubby’s cell and tablet. What I realized is I may need another larger tote bag in the future. Why you ask? Answer is that one must also take the chargers for these items. Each device has its’ own charger and not one charger is compatible to use on more than one device. Four devices and four chargers needed to be packed.
I can not understand why there is not a universal charger that can work on all my devices. If most people are like me, they have a cell phone, perhaps a tablet or notebook or computer. Fortunate for me I did not travel this trip with the lap top. Now you not only have to make sure you have them but the charger as well. Of course you must also hope that the hotel has sufficient outlets to recharge all the items overnight. I found the hotel where I stayed did not have enough outlets so now I know on future trips I need to pack a power strip which can hold up to four tiems easily.
Since I am a list person, I generally make a list of what I need to pack Seems my list has gotten longer in the past few years. We live in a world of technology that can easily be carried where ever we go. It use to be said “American Express Card, don’t leave home without it.” Now it is our electronic devices we don’t leave home without.
Not to long ago a friend told me her grandchildren were visiting for the day. They arrived with their Ipads and spent quite a bit ot time using them. The batteries got quite low and needed to be recharged. Both of the children forgot to bring their charger. My friend did not have any type of charger for them to use as she does not own an Ipad, Ipod or notebook. The children got upset and said they were bored. She suggested they go ‘old school’ and play a board game which she pulled out of a storage area. An education indeed for these children who never played a board game prior. The children learned a lesson in making sure to always be prepared when traveling if only for a day; and secondly how to interact with another one on one in a game of Clue, Scrabble and Monopoly.
Since I have been there playing the old board games in my younger years, I feel I can now treat myself to Candy Crush, Cookie Jam, Pet Rescue and whatever game I can do before I go to sleep for the night.
Until next time….don’t leave home without your chargers.
Last Wednesday I packed for a four day trip that would be from Thursday to Sunday. I knew what items of clothing I needed to take but unsure of what else to included. The weather app on my IPhone gave me the five day forecast to pack accordingly. Wednesday evening I put my travel bag of clothes and shoes in the car. Thursday all I would need to place in the trunk my bag of toiletries and the tote bag with the must have electronic devices my husband and I need with us. For some they aren’t a must need, but to us these are essential. These must items for him includes his cell phone and his tablet which has his favorite games and the Kindle app with his library. My must have item is my Kindle Fire as my cell is always carried in my purse. I need my Kindle as I must read before falling asleep. At one time I have two or three books going (but that is another blog for another time). The tote bag I have is small but the Kindle fits inside perfectly as does hubby’s cell and tablet. What I realized is I may need another larger tote bag in the future. Why you ask? Answer is that one must also take the chargers for these items. Each device has its’ own charger and not one charger is compatible to use on more than one device. Four devices and four chargers needed to be packed.
I can not understand why there is not a universal charger that can work on all my devices. If most people are like me, they have a cell phone, perhaps a tablet or notebook or computer. Fortunate for me I did not travel this trip with the lap top. Now you not only have to make sure you have them but the charger as well. Of course you must also hope that the hotel has sufficient outlets to recharge all the items overnight. I found the hotel where I stayed did not have enough outlets so now I know on future trips I need to pack a power strip which can hold up to four tiems easily.
Since I am a list person, I generally make a list of what I need to pack Seems my list has gotten longer in the past few years. We live in a world of technology that can easily be carried where ever we go. It use to be said “American Express Card, don’t leave home without it.” Now it is our electronic devices we don’t leave home without.
Not to long ago a friend told me her grandchildren were visiting for the day. They arrived with their Ipads and spent quite a bit ot time using them. The batteries got quite low and needed to be recharged. Both of the children forgot to bring their charger. My friend did not have any type of charger for them to use as she does not own an Ipad, Ipod or notebook. The children got upset and said they were bored. She suggested they go ‘old school’ and play a board game which she pulled out of a storage area. An education indeed for these children who never played a board game prior. The children learned a lesson in making sure to always be prepared when traveling if only for a day; and secondly how to interact with another one on one in a game of Clue, Scrabble and Monopoly.
Since I have been there playing the old board games in my younger years, I feel I can now treat myself to Candy Crush, Cookie Jam, Pet Rescue and whatever game I can do before I go to sleep for the night.
Until next time….don’t leave home without your chargers.
Tuesday, January 6, 2015
The New Year
Another year has come and gone. I wonder just where did 2014 go and what did I do? I always ponder this thought on New Year’s Evef while I have a celebratory drink. This year I did not ponder the thought until January 1st as I opened my new journal and began to write.
Each year we make resolutions to loose weight, eat healthy, exercise, to do volunteer work, give a little to charity and to become a better person. I have said it before, I don’t like to make a resolution as it makes me feel that I must resolve to complete what I began. A few years ago I wrote goals but like resolutions, they went by the wayside. This year I made a list of intentions I hope to accomplish. No doubt many would say it is the same as a goal or resolution, but to me I find it different. “I intend to do this; I intend to do that.” Perhaps by calling them ‘good intentions’ I won’t feel so bad if I fail to see them through.
A new year means a new slate. I read something on Facebook that a new year is like a blank journal of 365 pages, one for each day. How you fill those pages is up to you.
On January 1se as I began my new journal for the year, I wrote a list of my intentions. At the end of the month I will review the list to check if I am on track or if I failed at any time. The first of the following month, I will again make a list of my intentions; review the list at the end of the month. I plan to do this each month this year. My thought is that by doing it this way I should be able to fulfill my intentions for the year. Of course I will keep you all up to date on my progress.
As of today, the year is six days old. I find so far, I have been staying right on track with my intention list, but I am only human and know some how I will fall from grace. We all fail at times, but that does not mean we should give up. Making resolutions and keeping them is not easy. It seems once we fail, we give up. That does not have to be the way. If you find you have not keep one of your New Year goals, just begin again. It is the old saying “when at first you don’t succeed, try try again.” An old cliché but a truer one in my opinion.
So no matter what you make, goals, resolutions or intentions, only you can see them through and no one else.
Happy New Year to all….hope you make 2015 a stellar year.
Each year we make resolutions to loose weight, eat healthy, exercise, to do volunteer work, give a little to charity and to become a better person. I have said it before, I don’t like to make a resolution as it makes me feel that I must resolve to complete what I began. A few years ago I wrote goals but like resolutions, they went by the wayside. This year I made a list of intentions I hope to accomplish. No doubt many would say it is the same as a goal or resolution, but to me I find it different. “I intend to do this; I intend to do that.” Perhaps by calling them ‘good intentions’ I won’t feel so bad if I fail to see them through.
A new year means a new slate. I read something on Facebook that a new year is like a blank journal of 365 pages, one for each day. How you fill those pages is up to you.
On January 1se as I began my new journal for the year, I wrote a list of my intentions. At the end of the month I will review the list to check if I am on track or if I failed at any time. The first of the following month, I will again make a list of my intentions; review the list at the end of the month. I plan to do this each month this year. My thought is that by doing it this way I should be able to fulfill my intentions for the year. Of course I will keep you all up to date on my progress.
As of today, the year is six days old. I find so far, I have been staying right on track with my intention list, but I am only human and know some how I will fall from grace. We all fail at times, but that does not mean we should give up. Making resolutions and keeping them is not easy. It seems once we fail, we give up. That does not have to be the way. If you find you have not keep one of your New Year goals, just begin again. It is the old saying “when at first you don’t succeed, try try again.” An old cliché but a truer one in my opinion.
So no matter what you make, goals, resolutions or intentions, only you can see them through and no one else.
Happy New Year to all….hope you make 2015 a stellar year.
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