SPREADING HOLIDAY CHEER....Day 8

  SPREADING HOLIDAY CHEER

Today....PICK UP LITTER in YOUR 

                 NEIGHBORHOOD 

FOOD BOX:  BOX of INSTANT POTATOES 

One thing I don’t really like seeing is litter strewn all over my street and neighborhood.    

People just don’t care if they throw stuff out of cars; drop something on street or if by accident piece of trash falls out of garbage bag. 

Today go around your neighborhood to pick up litter you see. 

BE CARFUL DOING SO!  DON’T DO IT IF YOU CAN BE IN HARMS WAY.

Perhaps you can take a walk to get some fresh air.  Take a bag with you to pick up any litter you may see on your walk.  Who knows someone may see what you’re doing and might decide to do the same. This small act could become a weekly or monthly event in your neighborhood.  

Remember be careful in doing this.  

Until tomorrow....enjoy your walk.  

Tomorrow...make someone laugh with a funny cartoon or joke. 

 

SPREADING HOLIDAY CHEER....Day 7

  SPREADING HOLIDAY CHEER 

      Today....DONATE FOOD to a FOOD PANTRY 

 FOOD BOX:  BOX of CRACKERS 

Food pantries and food banks need food all year; it’s more importantly during the holidays. It seems most food banks/pantries have depleted stock during this time of year.  

Eve if you are doing the ‘food item a day’ in the food box you can still make a donation today also.  

I donate throughout the year through one of the veteran’s organizations which I hold membership.  We have boxes set up to collect non-perishable items.  During this time of year I increase my donations of food plus give monetary donation.  

It does not cost an arm and a leg to give to those in need.  If you look for non-perishable BOGO (buy one get one) items you can donate quite a bit.  I usually buy and donate from this way. Also when there is a big sale such as buying ten for ten. You buy half for your own use and donate half to the food bank. 

Your help and donation no matter how small or large does help.  It’s the season of goodwill so why not show goodwill by helping the local food pantries.  In my area two local churches run food banks.  I’ve donated to both over the years as well as the veteran’s food bank.  Your help can make a happy holiday for a family in need. 

Until tomorrow....enjoy the day. 

Tomorrow why not help pick up litter in your neighborhood as a gesture of spreading cheer. 

SPREADING HOLIDAY CHEER....Day 6

SPREADING HOLIDAY CHEER 

     Today....DONATE a HOLIDAY THEMED BOOK to the LIBRARY 

FOOD BOX:  JAR of PEANUT BUTTER 

Holiday themed books are something I read during this time of year.  Every year I read “A Christmas Carol”; plus “The Night Before Christmas.”  I have quite a few holiday themed books in my Kindle library. I have added a few to it in the past few weeks.  My goal is to read one or two over the course of the season. 

Many libraries always welcome a new book donation.  In fact many have books donated in memory of a love one or friend who has passed away.  These books are a wonderful tribute as inside the book there is usually a little plaque stating the name of that person and the name of the donor.

Why not pick up a new book or two for the local library.  Donate the book in the name of a person or persons.  

Libraries, like other places, have seen cut backs in funds over the years. Many rely upon help from fundraising events and donations from patrons. 

Find a good lighthearted fiction for the adult section or something for the children’s area of the library. 

Until tomorrow....enjoy the day. 

Tomorrow donate food to a food pantry. 

SPREADING HOLIDAY CHEER....Day 5

SPREADING HOLIDAY CHEER 

  Today....DONATE TOYS 

FOOD BOX:  BOX of STUFFING 

Toys for Tots is one toy drive charity you’ll find this time of year.  Of course not every community participates in this program. Many areas, where I reside, do a local toy drive for children in need.  In fact two different factions do this. One is a local doctor; the other a bar/restaurant business. Both collect toys for underprivileged children.  All toys and proceeds (as many donate money) stay within the local communities and/or county.  I know some fire companies and other organizations do a toy drive.  

Personally I like the events held by the local doctor and business.  I know my donations will stay in my immediate area.  

Children need to have a good holiday season. There are many single parents; families down on their luck that just Ned a helping hand.  

This time of year many stores have sales on toys. Sometimes you can find a good bargain in an outlet store.  You may find a buy one get one fifty percent off if you look hard enough. 

There is nothing like seeing the smile of the face of a child who gets a gift from Santa. 

While out and about shopping pick up a toy or two. Donate to a toy drive in your area. 

Your toy maybe the only one they get for Christmas.   

Until tomorrow....enjoy the day. 

Tomorrow....donate a holiday themed book to the local library.  

SPREADING HOLIDAY CHEER....Day 4

SPREADING HOLIDAY CHEER 

   Today.....CALL a FAMILY MEMBER YOU HAVE NOT SPOKEN with in a WHILE 

FOOD BOX:  BOX of CEREAL 

It seems with everyone being busy (even if retired) we may not have time to keep in contact with our family.  Whether it be our immediate family; or uncle/aunt or cousins.  We just don’t keep in close contact.  The occasional email or text to say hello just is not the same as a phone call.  Speaking with someone, hearing their voice; letting them hear your voice can brighten their day.  

We send the yearly Christmas cards; sometimes include a letter of our year past. But just sitting back in a comfy chair dialing up the number of a member of the family is a truly good feeling inside.  It does not matter how long since you last saw them; spoke with them or received or sent a card; an unexpected call can be a wonderful surprise.  Who knows maybe they are feeling lonely or having issues with health.  Your just to say hello and how are you doing does not take much time or effort. Perhaps you can make plans to chat more often. If they live close, maybe planning an outing for before the holidays would be fun. 

Don’t wait to be called by them.  Pick up the phone and call. 

Enjoy your day.  

Tomorrow....Donate toys to a toy drive. 

    

SPREADING HOLIDAY CHEER....Day 3

DAY 3 

SPREADING HOLIDAY CHEER 

  Today....PURCHASE a FEW BOXES of 

             CHRISTMAS CARDS for NURSING 

                HOME PATIENTS

FOOD BOX:  CAN of CORN 

A few years ago a veteran’s organization which I hold membership held a collection drive for boxes of Christmas cards.  They planned on taking them to a local nursing facility for patients.  The patients would then have cards to send to their family members or friends.  The organization also took a collection to purchase stamps for the  patients to send the cards.  

This was a wonderful idea indeed.  I had known many who had family/friends in nursing homes.  Many of these people can not get out and would enjoy getting a box of cards which to send.  The cards need not be just for the holidays. You can take a box of assorted all occasion cards; these boxes include birthday, get well, thinking of you and condolences.  In some instances you can find boxes under five dollars.  Another idea; perhaps you have unused cards you never used. Gather them together and put them into a plastic storage type bag; take them to a local facility for the patients.  They would welcome them gladly. 

I had done this previously and gesture was gratefully appreciated. This small act of spreading cheer does not take much time or effort.  You are helping someone in need and spreading holiday cheer to another. 

Until tomorrow.....enjoy spreading the cheer. 

Tomorrow....call a family member you have not spoken with in a while. 

SPREADING HOLIDAY CHEER....Day 2

DAY 2 

 

   SPREADING HOLIDAY CHEER 

   Today.....SEND CHRISTMAS/HOLIDAY CARDS to OUR TROOPS 

FOOD BOX:  Can of green beans 

There is nothing sadder than not being with your family for the holidays.  For those who are deployed and can not be home with their love ones during the holidays it’s not a happy holiday.  Send a card or a few to our deployed troops.  You don’t know, perhaps there are service personal who actually have no family.  Receiving a card from someone (even if they are a stranger), can help make their holidays.  Everyone likes feeling they are thought about during this time of the year.  They are away from home serving our country so we can enjoy the holidays in freedom.  It only takes a few minutes to write a personal greeting to a service man or woman.  For the address on where to send the cards, make a search on the web.  There are a few different places listed.  One site is Operation Christmas Cards for Troops Overseas.  Of course a local veteran’s organization in your community can also be of help with this information.  

As one who served in the military being away from home and not getting leave to be with family is one of the hardest things I recall.  I was so grateful for the people from my church; family of friends and ex-coworkers who sent me greetings for the holiday.  I knew someone besides my family was thinking of me. 

Until tomorrow enjoy your day. 

Tomorrow’s ‘spreading cheer’.....pick up a few boxes of Christmas cards at a discount store to take to patients at a local nursing facility. 

SPREADING HOLIDAY CHEER.....Day 1

DAY 1 

   SPREADING HOLIDAY CHEER 

    Today.....  MAKE a KINDNESS LIST

Last year I did a blog this time of year about spreading holiday cheer by doing acts of kindness.  This year I am again going to do the same.  As today is the day after Thanksgiving and Black Friday it is only fair I begin today with this blog.  A few years ago I saw a ‘Random Act of Kindness’ calendar for December.  I did some of them each day but a few I tweaked to suit my situation. Last year I took those acts and made my own list again tweaking them a bit.  I will post one for each day up until December 25th.  Keep your eyes on this blog for the daily act.  You can also come up with your own list. I call my list: SPREADING HOLIDAY CHEER.  At the end of each blog I plan to provide the ‘act of cheer’ for the following day. 

Besides my blog and spreading cheer idea, I plan to do something else.  I saw a post on social media a friend had posted. It was the idea of a reverse Advent calendar.  Instead of opening the calendar what you do is take a box and put an item in it each day for the food bank.  It is to begin December 1st to 24th then on the 24th take it to the food bank. I am changing it up to begin November 24th to December 17th then donate to the food bank on the 18th.  Each day I’ll list another item to put in the box. It’ll be titled; FOOD BOX.  

Today as my first day of ‘SPREADING HOLIDAY CHEER’ I am composing my list.  Hope you do the same. 

Until tomorrow....tomorrow send a few Christmas/holiday cards to a member of the armed forces who is deployed. 

Enjoy your day. 

THANKFUL MONTH.....Day 22

THANKFUL NUMBER 21

    ALL I HAVE

I may not have as much as some, but I do have more than some.  I don’t need much to make me happy.  All I need is a roof over my head; food and drink; clothes to wear; health; good people to stand by me; loving husband and family and MOST of ALL God.  

I am thankful for what I have and do not need a lot of material things to make me happy.  Over the years wanting what someone else has is not important; for I have found the grass is not always greener on the other side of the fence. 

As we wind down with the twenty-two days of “thankful month” and begin the Christmas holiday season, take a moment to review your thankful items. Can you add to the list? 

Today is Thanksgiving and it’s a day we are thankful.  As I approached the day the first words I said while I sat on the edge of my bed “thank you God for this day and all I have in my life.”

Tomorrow begins my blog about holiday acts of kindness.  

Until tomorrow....Happy Thanksgiving and I’m thankful for all who read the blog. 

THANKFUL MONTH....Day 21

THANKFUL NUMBER 20

   EDUCATION 

I am so thankful for the education I received.  I am glad to have been able to not only finish high school but also college.  

It was not uncommon for females even back when I was growing up to quit school.  Out of my two step-siblings and two half-siblings I am the only one who graduated from college. Okay I got my Associates during my twenties and my Bachelors while in my forties, but I did it. Not only did I work forty hours a week while attending classes at night, but I maintained an over B average. 

Education is a wonderful thing to have.  Today educators do not have it easy. They are underpaid; not appreciated and many have to use personal funds for supplies in the classroom.  As I think about my teachers over my elementary and high school years, they worked hard I feel to make certain we learned.  Many took time to try to work with those who had issues. In second grade, I had a reading problem. My teacher took me during recess to work on my reading skills. So odd today I am an avid reader.  

Today I am happy to have the education I received.  

Until tomorrow enjoy your day; it’s Thanksgiving Eve. 

THANKFUL MONTH.....Day 20

THANKFUL NUMBER 19

 CATS and DOGS

Unfortunately I reside in a gated community that does allow animals.  It’s a shame as I do like dogs and cats.  But perhaps it would be better I enjoy them from afar as I am on the go quite a bit.  What type of four legged parent would I be with leaving my fur baby alone.  I do enjoy the fur babies of others.  

I feel animals are a wonderful therapy for many.  The petting of a cat or dog is relaxation and has a calming effect.  Many nursing homes and hospitals allow therapy animals to visit.  Many say it’s the best medicine for patients as the animals cheer them up.  

My favorite videos and pictures on social media networks are those with an animal. During the holidays I enjoy seeing photos of cats and dogs wearing a red bow and/or a Santa or elf hat.  Animals are members of the family.  Like us humans they get sick; hurt; need food and water; they feel the heat and cold.  They need the live if their human as they give their love unconditionally. 

Animals are a wonderful companion to someone who is alone. 

Today I am thankful for cats and dogs.  

Until tomorrow....if you have a four legged fur baby hug them; be thankful to have them in your life. 

THANKFUL MONTH....Day 19

 THANKFUL NUMBER 18

     MUSIC 

Music can do much for a person.  It can cheer you up when feeling down; it can be your companion when driving alone; it can provide inspiration; it can be helpful when exercising and be just the jolt when doing household chores.  Music 🎶 means different things to me.  

It’s especially important to me during the Christmas holiday season. 

During the Christmas holiday season it’s the background mummers when reading a holiday themed book.  It inspires my creativity for my yearly holiday newsletter and my reason to sit and write out my Christmas cards. Music plays in the background while baking as well as wrapping gifts.  

I can not seem to get enough Christmas music from the spiritual religious carols to the more popular non-spiritual tunes.  

I am thankful for music 🎶 especially music during the holidays. From the happy tunes of Christmas cheer to a silent night that is holy and yes there are those twisted songs about the holidays; I can’t seem to get enough. Then comes the new year and they all go away till November (yes I’ve heard my first Christmas song five days ago and it’s not even Thanksgiving).  

Music 🎵, I am thankful for music 🎵; songs of love, sadness, cheer, etc....I sing along whenever I can. 

Until tomorrow....time to put the music channel on my television; there is a holiday station playing Christmas music. 

THANKFUL MONTH....DAY 18

THANKFUL NUMBER 17

         WEEKENDS

Even though I no longer am employed, I am still thankful for weekends.  It's the only time that many can spend with family due to commitments during the week; such as work and/or school.  As a child I recall my mother worked Monday through Friday to help support the family.  She married a man with two children older than I and my step-father also worked. The weekends after during what needed to be done there would be family time.  Personally I did not relish time I had to spend with my step-siblings and vice a versa.  I had rather my mother not marry my step-father; I felt like a outside in that family unit.  On weekends as I said there was family time. In the summer months Saturday evenings there would be every other week a trip to the local drive-in for a movie.  At times a trip to someplace for a picnic and fishing (which I hated).  Sunday afternoon would be board game day or as I secretly called it BORED GAME day.  

Weekends were a time for the family to do things when I was young. Back when I was growing not everyone’s mother worked outside the home.  So in our family we’d catch up on all that was going on in our lives on the weekend.  

Today with both parents holding jobs it seems the weekends are the only time for families to get together.  Families need time to do things as a unit no matter how trivial.  An outing in warmer months to a park or someplace to picnic together brings everyone close; in cooler months perhaps movie night or game night.  I am thankful for weekends for those who need to catch up with one another after a long work week.  

I was thankful for weekends when I was employed just for the time to rest and relax after working all week.  It gave me time to do get caught up on things around my home as well as doing errands.  

Depending what one does for work, the weekend may not fall on Saturday or Sunday.  Their weekend maybe consecutive days off during the week. Whatever the days maybe, I do think these individuals are thankful for their weekends. 

Until tomorrow....think about what the weekend means to you. Now that I’m retired it means church and during the fall college football. 

THANKFUL MONTH.... Day 17

THANKFUL NUMBER 16

  PEOPLE WHO ARE UNDERSTANDING 

Recently I had to make a drastic decision in my life.  I really had a hard time making it but it HAD to be done.  I explained the reasons for the decision to all concerned. 

Instead of accepting this decision I got a ton of flack from certain individuals.  They did not seem to care that I need to step back from my involvement in an organization where I hold office.  All they cared about was how it will affect them.  They had no understanding that there are things more important than holding an office in an organization and attending meetings and doing a lot of other things for said organization.  They did not care my reason was due to personal issues within my life (family and own well being).  All I got was flack and more flack. 

I am THANKFUL today to those few people who are UNDERSTANDING about my issue. Their concern on my well being has helped me with this decision that I did not make easily. 

No doubt in your own life there are people who are understanding but no doubt also selfish ones who have no compassion to what you maybe going through. 

As I go through this decision that was made I realize just who I can count on and who I can not. 

Until tomorrow....think about those who you can count on during times of difficulty; be thankful you have such individuals in your life. 

THANKFUL MONTH....Day 16

THANKFUL NUMBER 15

      CHOCOLATE 🍫 

Of all things of which I can be thankful here I am listing chocolate.  Sure it sounds like a real lame thing but chocolate is more than just a sweet thing to me.  Chocolate at times can bring a smile to many a face.  Everyone who likes chocolate has their own special chocolate treat.  Some enjoy a certain type candy and/or candy bar; some chocolate ice cream; some cake and others cookies.  Depending on the time of year I have different items of chocolate I enjoy.  It’s from November through February I am a HOT CHOCOHOLIC. I just can’t get enough cups of hot chocolate.  There are days I only enjoy marshmallows in it; other days whipped cream; then some days both marshmallows and whipped cream.  Some evenings I like to put a little Irish Cream in my hot chocolate.  During the holidays I’ll insert a small candy cane.  

I know not everyone likes chocolate; over the years I’ve met people who do not.  They just aren’t into it. That’s fine with me; more chocolate for the rest of us.  

I am sure many think there are other things for which I should be thankful instead of chocolate.  Perhaps they are correct. 

So until tomorrow.....enjoy the day; time for a chocolate with mint. 

THANKFUL MONTH.... Day 15

THANKFUL NUMBER 14

    BOOKS 

What kind of world would it be without books?  Today I am thankful to have books. They are my entertainment; my stress reliever; my sleep aid and oh so much more. 

I read a few chapters each night to help me become drowsy.  Truthfully there are times I get so wrapped up in the book I stay awake trying to finish it.  

When I can not find anything on television I’ll grab my Kindle and choose a book from my electronic library to get lost into.  Books have taken me to places I may never travel. Through books I’ve been to the west coast of the country; been to the coast of Maine; experienced the old south and parts of the mid-west.  

I’ve cried at times; laughed heartily and felt pain and sorrow.  

I am so thankful that years ago my husband purchased a Kindle for me.  It was a combination late Christmas and early birthday gift.  In another blog I think I made mention that I love how I carry my library everywhere I go.  

Books are a wonderful gift.  There are certain ones I’ve read more than once. 

 Until tomorrow....I think I’ll begin a holiday themed book today. 

THANKFUL MONTH....Day 14

THANKFUL NUMBER 13

  HOLIDAYS to CELEBRATE 

I consider myself a lover of holidays.  It does not matter what holiday it is, I enjoy the thought of celebrating.   Of course my favorites are Halloween, Christmas and St. Patrick's Day; I also enjoy as a veteran celebrating Veteran's Day.  

When I think about it, there must be one holiday a month for me to make cheer; sometimes two in a month.  

I have sort of came up with days that I consider a holiday but perhaps I should call them days for celebration.  These days include Super Bowl Sunday; Army-Navy Football Game Day; and my Birthday.  

I enjoy telling others "MERRY CHRISTMAS"; "HAPPY HALLOWEEN"; "HAPPY ST. PATRICKS DAY"; etc....

This month I've have so far celebrated Veteran's Day and the Marine Corps birthday.  I still have Thanksgiving and the beginning of Advent. 

If you search the web you’ll find links to sites that list a holiday for every day. I am glad to see some of the wacky/weird/odd holidays listed. It’s great to have a reason now and then to celebrate especially if you’re feeling a bit down.  I am thankful to find some reason on those days to cheer and bring joy perhaps to another.  

Yes I am thankful to find some reason to celebrate when I’m feeling blue.  

Until tomorrow....I am off to cheer up a Facebook friend by sending a holiday greeting; today’s odd holiday is Pickle🍆 Day.  Enjoy. 

THANKFUL MONTH....Day 13

THANKFUL NUMBER 12

  RELIGIOUS FREEDOM 

I am a Christian. I am of the Catholic faith. 

Today I am thankful to have the choice to worship where I want and when.  I am thankful to have the choice of the day on the weekend I want to attend a mass; Saturday afternoon, early or late Sunday morning or even Sunday evening. Also I am thankful I have a choice of churches in my area which to attend. 

As the Christmas holiday approaches I look forward to all the holiday brings in the form of my beliefs and the act of being more kind to all. 

This is a short blog as I keep my religious beliefs to myself and not for reading. All I wanted to say today is that I am thankful to have the choice to worship how I want. 

Until tomorrow...have a nice day 

H

THANKFUL MONTH.... Day 12

  THANKFUL NUMBER 11

    TECHNOLOGY to KEEP in TOUCH with OTHERS 

I am thankful for the technology we have today.  Growing up and even in my twenties and on, only way to keep in touch was by a landline and postal mail.  You’d have to be at home to make a phone call to someone; you’d have to send a letter or card by postal mail.  Many times it took three to four days for that letter to arrive in another state or even part of the state where you reside.  To make a long distance call, at a cheap rate, it’d have to be after a certain time of day or weekends.  Today you carry your phone with you.  You can call anyone from anywhere.  You can send a text message hoping to get response right away.  For lengthy communications you send an email; email returned to you can come the same day.  Photos of family can be sent via cyberspace as well.  

Over the last through years my birthday greetings, Christmas greetings and other card greetings have been done via social media and/or email/text.  Social media keeps me informed on family, friends and acquaintances.  Also I can see the latest photos of my grandchildren.  It’s amazing how we can carry all our photos on our phones.  The phone photo app seems to have replaced carrying pictures in our wallet.  Instead of the old brag book of photos, I know just tap on my photo app on my phone to show pictures of my grandchildren.  

I have a Kindle.  With this device I carry my library of books wherever I go instead of just one.  

Yes I am thankful for the technology we have but sometimes we need to take a break of looking down at our phones, tablets etc...and look at our surroundings.  

Until tomorrow....enjoy your day. I’m looking on social media for latest updates from family and friends.  

THANKFUL MONTH....Day 11

THANKFUL NUMBER TEN

     OUR VETERANS 

The first words I said to my husband this morning was “thank you for your service.” His first words to be “back at you.”

Today is Veteran’s Day.  As a veteran I wanted to save this ‘thankful’ for today even though it ranks higher on my list. 

 

There is a cartoon on social media where a young boy is praying.  (It is listed below.) The caption reads that Thanksgiving is when we give thanks for what we have; veteran’s day is when we pause to give thanks to the people who fought for what we have.  

Many sacrifice their lives each and every day to bring freedom.  They leave their home and family to go off to some foreign place to fight for rights.  When they finally return home they should be welcomed with open arms; many return back to their lives as before; many come home broken and maimed and need help and understanding.  We should not forget these brave men and women who sacrificed for us. As we remember our veterans today, pause a moment to give thanks. If you see a veteran, go up to them and tell them “thank you for your service”.   

Many restaurant businesses today honor our veterans with a free meal; many other businesses will give discounts and a themed park may give free admission.  

I am thankful for all who serve in our military.  It’s only a brief twenty-four hours that we remember our veterans.  We should remember them each and every day. 

As I paused early this morning to give my thanks to veterans; I began to think of my Christmas wishes.  Up there with with ‘peace in earth’ I wished for everyone who is serving in harms way to come home to be with their families.  All I want is Santa to bring home those who are deployed on his sleigh.  

If possible try to attend a Veterans Day service in your community or parade.  

Until tomorrow....to all veterans “thank you for your service.”

THANKFUL MONTH....Day 10

THANKFUL NUMBER NINE 

   WATER to QUENCH our THIRST

Yesterday I was thankful for rain so today I am thankful for water to drink.  We need water in our lives.  It’s essential.  Yes we all tend to drink other liquids that are not water; we drink milk, juice, soda, coffee, tea, wine, beer and other such beverages.  One thing is that most are made with water.  

So if we did not have water, we’d have none of the other beverages we enjoy.  

We need, so I’ve always heard, that we need eight ounces in eight glasses of water each day.  Of course if you do research on this you may find different takes.  Water is really the best source of liquid to hydrate your body.  I can drink just plain water, but my husband likes flavored; he uses flavor packets.  What he does is open one and put about a third into a twelve ounce bottle.  He never uses the whole pack as directed.  If I have them on hand, I may put a slice of lime, lemon or orange in water. I am thankful to have clean water to drink each day. There are many in this world who do not have the privilege of clean water.  Never take for granted the water you have available to drink. 

Until tomorrow....drink a glass of water; keep hydrated.  

THANKFUL MONTH....Day 9

THANKFUL NUMBER 8

    RAIN to NOURISH the EARTH

We complain when it's a rainy day. Many times we feel the rain disrupts our plans.  We stay indoors and feel as if the world is against us.  As children we use to say the rhyme:

   'Rain, rain go away

       Come again another day

        Little (insert a name) wants 

                to play 

     Rain, rain go away'

Back then we never realized how important the rain is.  Rain is needed to nourish the earth; refill water supplies.   Rain is needed for crops to grow; water for us all to drink; keeps our grass green.  

Too much rain, yes, can be a hazard when flooding happens.  Too little rain causes droughts; loss of much needed crops. 

Living in Florida, during certain times of year, we get afternoon storms.  They may not last but few hours but we sometimes complain about them; we just don't appreciate the importance of rain at times.  

As I read the news and listen to the news about areas of drought in , I am thankful for the precipitation that falls from the sky to give much needed nourishment to a thirsty earth. 

Without rain our crops would not grow and supply a harvest to the farmer.  All l can say is I am thankful for rain, even if it may come when I want to have a beach day.  

Until tomorrow....remember rain is important so don’t get in a tizzy about it; be thankful it’s helping the earth.  

THANKFUL MONTH....Day 8

THANKFUL NUMBER SEVEN

    SHELTER 

   

   You don’t need to live in a mansion; or some big fancy house.  All you need is a shelter from the storm and elements to feel safe.  I am thankful today for my shelter from the outside world.  No I don’t have a big fancy house that can be featured in a magazine; I live modestly and I am content.  

Wherever I hang my hats, I do own many of them, is home to me.  Wherever my husband and I are is home.  

Growing up I always felt one needed to live in a big house.  As I got older and perhaps a bit wiser, I find I only need minimal space.  More rooms you have, more to keep straightened and cleaned. 

I am thankful for where I hang my 

hats🎩🧢; where I lay down to sleep 😴; and where I can just be me away from the world.  I never wish or desire more these days.  My residence may be small but I realize there are those who have NO place to live.  I am content with my home; the people in my neighborhood and each day I can enjoy.  

Until tomorrow....be thankful for all your blessings.  

THANKFUL MONTH....Day 7

THANKFUL NUMBER SIX

     FARMERS WHO GROW FOOD WE EAT

I recently saw a post on social media about being thankful for different things and people. As we go through this month we need to be thankful to the farmers who provide us with our food.  They work hard to put food on our tables.  What we purchase in the store does not magically appear; it comes from those who work the land. Whether it be vegetables, meat or dairy products it all begins with a 

farmer 👨‍🌾 👩‍🌾.  

Farmers do not work a nine to five job; they begin their day early in the morning and work till dusk.  In this respect I wonder if that is why we have daylight savings time? It gives more daylight to the farmers.  

I have had the pleasure (yes pleasure) of knowing those who owned family farms.  These people were hardworking individuals who worked endless to provide for us; they receive little recognition as it is the big grocery stores who most of us are thankful for having what we need when we need it.  

As we sit down on Thanksgiving Day to our dinner of turkey 🦃; potatoes 🥔; carrots 🥕 , corn 🌽 or other vegetables; and don’t forget those who grew the pumpkins and apples for those pies we will consume; remember those who toiled the land, planted and harvested the final product. 

Until tomorrow.... enjoy your day.  

THANKFUL MONTH....Day 6

 

THANKFUL NUMBER FIVE

    HEALTH

I am thankful for what I have health wise.  Things could be worse so I should not complain.  There are many experiencing perhaps worse than I.  I get up each day; thank God for seeing me through the night. 

No matter how terrible I may feel from a migraine, arthritis, allergies etc....I am thankful that is all that may be bothering me at the moment. 

Out there in this world, someone is suffering; there is someone who is worse off then you in the health department.  

Be a thankful person that you have another day; be thankful if you have good health.  

As we go through this month of being thankful perhaps we know someone who is housebound due to illness.  A visit if possible, a call or even a thinking of you card could brighten their day. 

Today this is a short blog....so until tomorrow hope you have a good day. 

THANKFUL MONTH....Day 5

   THANKFUL NUMBER FOUR

          FRIENDS 

Friends are wonderful; they are part of your life.  At times they are better than family.  A true friend does not judge you as at times a family member may.  Friends can at times take the place of a family when you live far from home.  A good friend is honest. They will tell you the truth about yourself and not sugar coat it unlike someone in the family. 

Friends are loyal.  They accept you for who you really are; they understand if your moody and try to cheer you up.  They can lend a sympathetic ear when we need to vent or let out frustrations.  They are there if we need to grieve providing a shoulder to cry upon. 

Good friends are not an easy find.  If you have two or three REALLY good ones in your life be thankful.  Friends let you be yourself and with them you do not have to try to be anyone different. 

You may have a lot of friends but think about how many you can actually depend upon when the going gets tough.  Will they stand by you through stormy weather; or just be a fair weather friend?

Think about those in your life you consider a friend. Think about if they been there when called upon.  Are they a loyal and trustworthy person? One who will provide a helping hand when needed? 

If so be thankful; let them know how you feel. Tell them “thank you” for being a friend. A thank you goes a long way. 

THANKFUL MONTH..... Day 4

THANKFUL NUMBER THREE 

     FAMILY

It is not the sharing of the same bloodline that makes up a family.  Sometimes the family these days is a blend family; step-siblings, step-parents, step-children and step-relations.  Also it can be a group of really close friends who mean more to you then blood relations.   

I seem to have always been part of

a blended family.  As a child I grew up in what today we call a blended family. I had a step-father, step-siblings and step-relatives.  Later in my thirties I re-married and became, once again, a member of a blended family.  What is amazing I feel at times the blended family is closer than my blood related family.  I care about each of them and prayer for them in my daily prayers.  Many times a step-relative cares more than the blood relation.  A step-parent chooses to be just that, a step-parent. They have the option not to become a member of the family.  I did not have the option as a child to become part of a blended family, but as an adult I had the choice.  I stand by that family as if I were a blood relation. 

As for my blood family, I am thankful for those in my life. Sometimes things happen that we become estranged; but deep within I feel many still care about those from which we become estranged.  

There are times we have a friend who is like a family member. They can be the sister or brother you never had.  You can find a person who is like an aunt, uncle, grandparent etc... to you. They become a special part of your life.  I have had many of these throughout my life.  You are fortunate to know/or have known them. 

I am thankful to be a part of the blended family of which I became member.  I care for them as if they were my own flesh and blood. 

Today I am quite THANKFUL for my family; blood relation; blended; and those within my veteran’s organizations who are like family to me. 

Until tomorrow....think about who you are thankful for in your life.  Tell them you are thankful they are there in your life. 

THANKFUL MONTH....Day 3

THANKFUL NUMBER TWO.....

    My Partner in life

My second ‘thankful’ is to have a wonderful partner with who I can share my life.  I am fortunate to have someone who listens to my hopes; my dreams; my crazy schemes; and who stands by during times of sadness and happiness; one who walks with me along rocky roads and grassy paths in stormy weather and sun shining days. 

Not everyone can find that person who will be their cheerleader or one who will be a critic when criticism is needed.  We all need a person who can stand by us; hold us up when we lean or begin to fall.  Someone who can live with our shortcomings as well as our accomplishments.  Finding such a person is truly a wonderful treasure; a find which to be thankful. 

Today I am thankful to have such a person in my life.  I only hope and wish everyone could have someone special which to share their days and nights.  

Until tomorrow....if you are fortunate to have a partner that brings you happiness each and every day let them know by telling them  everyday how THANKFUL you are to have them in your life. 

THANKFUL MONTH..... Day 2

THANKFUL NUMBER ONE....

              EACH and EVERY DAY

My first ‘thankful’ is for each and every day given to me by God.  Every morning after I wake up, I sit at the edge of my bed; I take a deep breath and say “Thank-you Heavenly Father for seeing me through the night. Thank-you God for another day.”

The day can be sunny and bright; it can be hot and humid; the day could have stormy weather or be chilly with gray skies.  It does not matter what the weather outside maybe, I am thankful to be part of the day. 

I have heard many veterans say in the veteran’s clubs where I frequent the following, “Any day above ground is a good day.”  We all should take heed to those words.  No matter what the day brings, happiness, sorrow, issues that need working out, a bad day on the job etc... you need to remember one thing.  The one thing you need to remember thing, you are among the living.  The Lord has given you another day.  Be glad; rejoice and BE THANKFUL.   Make the most of each and every day.  If things get you down, try to keep a positive attitude that it can only get better.  No matter how my day goes before I crawl into bed I again sit at the edge; I thank God for seeing me through the day.  

Many times I hear people complain about different aspects of their life during the course of the day.  Complaints about drivers on the road; complaints about people in stores; disgust with the weather and so on and so on; they are just being down. These people need to look at the positive.  They are able to experience the bad drivers; crowded stores and the weather (whatever it may be that day).  

Today I am thankful for the day and the opportunity to be writing or should I say typing this blog. 

 Until tomorrow....think about your day and give thanks for experiencing whatever it may bring. 

THANKFUL MONTH....Day One

 The Thirty-one Days of Halloween has come to an end. It seems like the month flew by. November came quickly.  

I wanted to do something for the month. I’ve realized that Thanksgiving is on the 22nd of the month. That means for me the Christmas holiday season begins on the 23rd.  During that time of year, the past few years, I’ve done a ‘random act of kindness’ during December. I’ve decided to begin it on the 23rd of November through Christmas Eve.  More details in future blog. 

November has two holidays I enjoy; the first is Veteran’s Day on the 11th and then Thanksgiving.  November is a “thankful” month. We give thanks to those who served our nation to give us our freedom; then we give thanks for all we have. I have made up my mind to do a “thankful” each day item beginning today and blog briefly about.  Beginning on November the 2nd I’ll  post each day till Thanksgiving one thing for which I am thankful.  The first ‘thankful’ blog begins tomorrow. 

As we begin a new month, ‘THE THANKFUL MONTH’, think about what you are thankful for.  Sure your list is long. I’m sure twenty-one days won’t be enough for me , but I’ll start with my top ‘thankfuls’ first.