Friday, March 11, 2011

Spring is in the Air...

Spring is in the air, and we're almost ready to break out of hibernation and move back outdoors. The days are gradually getting longer and temperatures are pushing into the 80's, at least here in Florida. I love to take my camera when I go on walks...just in case I happen upon something interesting, or beautiful. As my hubby and I were walking last weekend, we spotted a tree that was bursting with gorgeous yellow blossoms. I am posting it and hope it lifts your spirits as it did ours. Nothing is prettier than plush green grass (we're getting there) and colorful flowers in full bloom (I'll be planting this weekend), unless you, unfortunately, have springtime allergies. After months of cabin fever, our little guys are lovin' this weather. Trust me, they need to be outdoors as much as possible, soaking up that Florida sunshine (with sunscreen, of course) and exercising their little bodies.

Maybe you don't like to take walks but, whatever it is that makes you happy, as long as it is wholesome and healthy, "just do it"! Unhappiness and stress takes a toll on our mind and bodies and is just not healthy. Sometimes, we are in unexpected situations that are not by choice but I think a beautiful day outdoors can do wonders for our state of mind. Oh, by the way, my philosophy is "If you don't like what is going on in your life, change it." There! It is that simple. The best way to live a fulfilling life is to make it exactly what you want it to be. You are in control and you are the one that can make it happen.

For those of you who rarely venture out to play, step outside the box. (pun intended) for a little fresh air. Take in the beautiful colors, the birds singing and the gorgeous blue skies. If you enjoy walking or running, grab your IPod, download "Feelin Groovy" by Simon and Garfunkel and head out. (don't forget your camera)   And, don't forget to look up and thank God for all the beauty he has created.

Tuesday, March 8, 2011

FIRE!!!!!

While babysitting my little guys this afternoon, we had some excitement in their neighborhood. The boys and I were playing in the backyard when we began to smell and see smoke. Next to their home is a wooded area and we could clearly see that is where the smoke was coming from.  When we got to the edge of the brush, we heard a siren coming down the street.  I can't tell you how excited the little guys were to watch first hand the firemen jump off the truck, roll out the hose and run through the wooded area spraying water on the fire.  Actually, the hero's were two female firefighters.  There were several men firefighters that watched and a couple that stayed by the truck.  Yeah, girl power!!  What a great lesson for my little guys!

The sad thing about this story is several young kids were seen running from the woods just before the fire. The firemen said that if it had happened a month or so from now, the brush would be much thicker creating a much larger fire and it would likely have affected some homes. We are very blessed today for the quick response of the firemen and the fact that someone took the time to call 911.
The little guys were full of questions for the firemen
One of the female heros!
A fireman with Meme and the little guys.
The damage
Another picture of the aftermath.
The firemen have just arrived.
This hose weighs 200lbs with the water inside and that is a female firefighter.
My daughter arrived home to find a firetruck in her front yard.
The firetruck arrived.

Sunday, March 6, 2011

Happy Birthday Mom!

Today's post is in honor of my beautiful Mother's 80th birthday. 

Dear Mom,

     I feel so blessed to be celebrating your 80th birthday today.  Having you for a Mother is the greatest gift I have ever received.  I have given you many birthday gifts over the years but none that can express the extent of appreciation and love I have for you.  These words, from my heart to yours, are all I can give you that even comes close.  And, honestly, there is not enough paper in the world to list all the things I am grateful to you for.   First and foremost, I want to thank you for raising me in a Christian home.  I can't say I was always excited to get up on Sunday mornings for church and Sunday school and Wednesday night prayer meeting but with your gentle nature, you could always make us see the importance.  For that, I am so grateful.  You have been a perfect example for your children and have always shown us unconditional love and support.  I thank you for instilling in me good morals and values that have allowed me to be a productive and positive person. 

     I want to thank you for teaching me patience, kindness and respect for others.  You are the most selfless, thoughtful and generous person I know.  Only after becoming a Mother myself did I realize all the many sacrifices you made for me.  I truly can't thank you enough for that.  I appreciate you providing me with a loving home and making my childhood such a happy one.   I appreciate your advice...everything you have said, and for the times when you said nothing, just listened. I am so grateful for the way in which you disciplined...always calm and patient and always expressing your love.

     You taught me how to be a Mother and Grandmother and you are still teaching me today.  I have immense respect for you and hope you realize what an amazing Mother you are and how grateful I am for your guidance in my life.   I have always heard your Mother is your truest friend and the older I get, the more I realize the truth in that.  I cherish every minute that we spend together and thank you for a lifetime of fun and blessings.  Happy Birthday Mom.  I Love You!

From the bottom of my heart,

Your daughter

    

    


My Mother kept a garden,
A garden of the heart.
She planted all the good things
That gave my life its start.

She turned me to the sunshine
And encouraged me to dream,
Fostering and nurturing
The seeds of self-esteem...

Her constant good example
Always taught me right from wrong -
Markers for my pathway
That will last a lifetime long.

I am my Mother's garden.
I am her legacy -
And I hope today she feels the love
reflected back from me.