Keeping it Real...Welcome! No matter how you found this, God knew you'd be here today. May you absorb the message He has for you. In 2011 I shared through my writing, today I've learned there is more to me than just writing. I have the energy and passion to share with others. Sometimes through Facebook live and others with my blog and most importantly, I've learned my passion to cook and bake is a vessel to share my writing and live presentations, while glorifying God in the process. I just needed to let go, and follow His lead.
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11/27/2015
What Happened to Black FRIDAY? The term “Black Friday” was coined in the 1960s to mark the kickoff to the Christmas shopping season. “Black” refers to stores moving from the “red” to the “black,” back when accounting records were kept by hand, and red ink indicated a loss, and black a profit. Ever since the start of the modern Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in 1924, the Friday after Thanksgiving has been known as the unofficial start to a bustling holiday shopping season. Okay, this is the information directly from the Black Friday website. I learned something new, like that this term and shopping extravaganza started in the 1960's. One of my favorite things to do has been waiting in the long lines in the wee hours of the morning. I met new people, saw old friends, and enjoyed the memories made as we watched the craziness of people getting the best deal. We'd wait in line at one store, get what we need before scurrying to the neighboring store to wait in their line. Toes and fingers cold yet no one noticed. The singing of Christmas carols as beautiful snow fell and landed on your nose, a priceless experience. These days are gone. As we picked up the last items for Thanksgiving dinner on Wednesday evening, I heard people complaining about the shopping on Thanksgiving day but in the next breath, say how they "had" to come to get the best deal. I may upset you but it's your choice if you go to the sale. Personally, we don't shop on Thanksgiving because in an attempt to put first things first, we spend time with our family. If no one shops on Thanksgiving, retailers will go back to waiting for Black Friday, the way it has been for more than fifty years. My heart breaks for the store employees who don't have a choice to work or not to work retail on Thanksgiving Day. For some, if they don't work, their family doesn't eat or have eat. Remember this as they ring up your $300 sale, as you save just as much, because they might be fighting back tears at how they could catch up bills or enjoy a feast of their own if they only had half that much money. I enjoy Black Friday shopping yet this morning as we set our alarms for 5:30 a.m., we are still home because we know there aren't lines to wait in and the sale goes until 10 a.m., so why rush. I find the pre-Black Friday deals have decreased some of the Christmas excitement and tradition, at least for our family. I look forward to getting out today. There is no great deal we are hoping to get, well, other than the women's winter boots at Herb Philipsons in Oswego on Saturday for $20 because I don't have any. I'm sure my movie junkie family will find a couple movies left in the $2 and $4 bin at Walmart. My goal for the day, to enjoy time with my family. Are you a Black Friday shopper? Why do you go? What is your favorite part of the day? Do you shop on Thanksgiving? What would happen if everyone sent retail a message by not shopping next Thanksgiving, do you think Black Friday lines would return or would everyone log online and limit socialization even more? Oh the questions buzzing in my brain and just 7 a.m. Rant done...Time to get moving and enjoy this Black Friday adventure!
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As I forced my feet to the floor this morning, it felt like just another day. I let the dog out and breathed in the fresh and brisk morning air. I clicked on the coffee pot and snuggled Mag's kitten for a bit. I just sat in the quiet of the living room and thought about what needed to be done. Then it clicked, it wasn't Saturday but Thursday, and it is a holiday. Thanksgiving for those of us living in the United States and other parts of the world.
With this in mind, I lifted my bum from the chair and got to work. A little tidying around the house, oven warming, and hot water to do the last three days of dishes. What was I thinking? Three days plus Thanksgiving preparation dishes equals a counter of clean dishes now. I can't believe I am sharing how unmotivated I am to do these everyday tasks with all of you, but then again, one thing this blog has remained is honest. Who knows, maybe one of you can understand the funk I'm in and are thinking, "Phew, I'm not the only one who just can't get it together." If so, leave a note in a comment below.
With this in mind, I lifted my bum from the chair and got to work. A little tidying around the house, oven warming, and hot water to do the last three days of dishes. What was I thinking? Three days plus Thanksgiving preparation dishes equals a counter of clean dishes now. I can't believe I am sharing how unmotivated I am to do these everyday tasks with all of you, but then again, one thing this blog has remained is honest. Who knows, maybe one of you can understand the funk I'm in and are thinking, "Phew, I'm not the only one who just can't get it together." If so, leave a note in a comment below.
Anyway, once this reality check occurred, motivation followed. Not by choice but necessity. Yet, as I picked up and started to clean the kitchen, make the corn pudding, and a new gluten-free muffin recipe...true joy and motivation joined the preparation process. It felt good to see the kitchen counter and smell the aromas of food cooking in the house. Go figure.
I called and wished Dad, and some family, a Happy Thanksgiving and the emotion overwhelmed me. It is the first Thanksgiving without my Mom, but actually, it's my second. As I stood over the sink, I was lost in thought and remembered my first Thanksgiving away from home during my second year in college. Instead of sticking around CNY, I accepted an invitation to a friend's house who lived outside of New York City. We had a great week. It was a different feeling as I celebrated with her family. They welcomed me and shared their traditions with me.
While we didn't make it to the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade, a trip to the city was fun and eventful. Due to the fog, a trip to the Statue of Liberty wasn't possible, but at least this beautiful lady was in the backdrop of this photo. I remember my friend asking a stranger to take our picture. I was afraid they would run off with the camera, such a country girl thing to think. The people in the city were hospitable. My greatest trouble was not making eye contact and saying hello to those we passed because they meant I was a tourist. Too funny.
We watched the parade, helped with dinner, and enjoyed the day. I called home long distance and collect. For you youngers reading this, this was prior to cellular phones that fit in your back pocket, I don't think the big bag phones were even available. I learned a lot and had a great visit, but looked forward to following year's Thanksgiving because it felt weird not to be with family and I was a touch homesick. I was thankful to pick up the phone and call, at least I could hear their voice and talk to everyone as they passed the phone around at Gram's that year.
I called and wished Dad, and some family, a Happy Thanksgiving and the emotion overwhelmed me. It is the first Thanksgiving without my Mom, but actually, it's my second. As I stood over the sink, I was lost in thought and remembered my first Thanksgiving away from home during my second year in college. Instead of sticking around CNY, I accepted an invitation to a friend's house who lived outside of New York City. We had a great week. It was a different feeling as I celebrated with her family. They welcomed me and shared their traditions with me.
While we didn't make it to the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade, a trip to the city was fun and eventful. Due to the fog, a trip to the Statue of Liberty wasn't possible, but at least this beautiful lady was in the backdrop of this photo. I remember my friend asking a stranger to take our picture. I was afraid they would run off with the camera, such a country girl thing to think. The people in the city were hospitable. My greatest trouble was not making eye contact and saying hello to those we passed because they meant I was a tourist. Too funny.
We watched the parade, helped with dinner, and enjoyed the day. I called home long distance and collect. For you youngers reading this, this was prior to cellular phones that fit in your back pocket, I don't think the big bag phones were even available. I learned a lot and had a great visit, but looked forward to following year's Thanksgiving because it felt weird not to be with family and I was a touch homesick. I was thankful to pick up the phone and call, at least I could hear their voice and talk to everyone as they passed the phone around at Gram's that year.
This year, I can pick up the phone and call but Mom's voice won't be on the other end. I'm thankful for Dad and to chat with him for quite a bit this morning. He even picked up the paper for me while he was out and about in the early hours. Then my heart broke for Dad, as I prepare to join my in-laws for the day, Dad opted to chillax at home.
Today, as we all gather with our family and friends, let us remember that not everyone is in a house filled with people. During the moments of the day, when you think "When do I get to leave?" because the commotion, "discussions", and activity becomes overwhelming...remember there are some home alone or avoiding the holiday. Some choose the quiet because it's easier and others, have no one to join. We need only recognize that as individuals, we all need something different.
My observation, we don't need to force those alone on the holiday to join in, we merely need to extend invitations and respect their wishes. Everyone handles grief and loss differently. Each person will put one foot in front of the other during the first Thanksgiving, Christmas, or event without their loved in a different way.
I haven't had this void in my heart since the first Thanksgiving without Heidi, twenty-one years ago. Last year was the first time we spent Thanksgiving with my parents, as I look back, I'm so thankful we started that tradition. Memories to cherish. I honestly want to stay home and snuggle on the couch with a blank stare towards whatever mushy Christmas movie is playing BUT this won't do me, or the ones I love any good. So, the muffins are done and the corn pudding is slowly catching up. Now it's time for me and my heart to catch up. God is good and He knows what I need, one which is to write.
Some things I'm thankful for this morning:
*The after-school enrichment class I have the opportunity to teach. The kids desire to write and be creative is inspiring. Their energy contagious. Their hearts, pure and motivational.
*To wake up each day with breath in my lungs to experience another day
*For family and friends to love and be loved by
*For a career I love and never feels like work, it's an extension of family
*For running water, heat, and indoor plumbing
*For memories on the days that can be a challenge
*For my 2012 Thanksgiving blog that includes a video (click her to view) made my parents as a gift to me and you.
*That my husband is patient right now, because I should be doing my hair and getting dress instead of writing this blog while watching the parade. Teehee
Today, as we all gather with our family and friends, let us remember that not everyone is in a house filled with people. During the moments of the day, when you think "When do I get to leave?" because the commotion, "discussions", and activity becomes overwhelming...remember there are some home alone or avoiding the holiday. Some choose the quiet because it's easier and others, have no one to join. We need only recognize that as individuals, we all need something different.
My observation, we don't need to force those alone on the holiday to join in, we merely need to extend invitations and respect their wishes. Everyone handles grief and loss differently. Each person will put one foot in front of the other during the first Thanksgiving, Christmas, or event without their loved in a different way.
I haven't had this void in my heart since the first Thanksgiving without Heidi, twenty-one years ago. Last year was the first time we spent Thanksgiving with my parents, as I look back, I'm so thankful we started that tradition. Memories to cherish. I honestly want to stay home and snuggle on the couch with a blank stare towards whatever mushy Christmas movie is playing BUT this won't do me, or the ones I love any good. So, the muffins are done and the corn pudding is slowly catching up. Now it's time for me and my heart to catch up. God is good and He knows what I need, one which is to write.
Some things I'm thankful for this morning:
*The after-school enrichment class I have the opportunity to teach. The kids desire to write and be creative is inspiring. Their energy contagious. Their hearts, pure and motivational.
*To wake up each day with breath in my lungs to experience another day
*For family and friends to love and be loved by
*For a career I love and never feels like work, it's an extension of family
*For running water, heat, and indoor plumbing
*For memories on the days that can be a challenge
*For my 2012 Thanksgiving blog that includes a video (click her to view) made my parents as a gift to me and you.
*That my husband is patient right now, because I should be doing my hair and getting dress instead of writing this blog while watching the parade. Teehee
The LORD is my strength and my shield;
My heart trusts in Him, and I am helped;
Therefore my heart exults,
And with my song I shall thank Him.
Psalm 28:7
Happy Thanksgiving! The first of many new traditions are in the making.
I hope you have a wonderful day ~ share a memory or tradition below if like.
 | IT IS SNOWING!! Ever so lightly but a touch of white in the air and on the deck - a GREAT way to add Christmas spirit to your shopping today. I will be at the New Haven Congregational Church as they partner with the New Town Hall for New Haven's annual Fall Craft Show. Two stops with one parking of the car, then when you are done, head to Oswego. I know there are a couple there too - maybe someone else can post this information below in a comment. |
One of my favorite traditions as a child and adult during this time of year was traveling to the craft shows with my Mom. As the release of Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey approached, i traded in my driving and shopping for a table at one of the very locations I visited years prior.
The common factor, Mom was right there with me, making memories. Memories I'll cherish. An observation from a couple decades of craft fair attendance, we are not the only family that enjoys this tradition, and most people travel in packs of laughter, discussion, and merriment.
I debated not doing craft shows this year. As much as I enjoy visiting with people, meeting my readers and Facebook friends, I was not feeling it. One thing is missing, Mom. Then it dawned on me, thanks to the words of my mother...she might not be here physically but her memory, our memories, and her voice remain. As I packed my containers last night I found Mom's business cards for her "Burn Baby Burn" plaques. I smiled at the memory of surprising Mom with these cards and then a few tears as I tucked these cards away.
The friendship, love, and time with my Mom is a part of me and woven into all the moments of my life. As I looked at an old blog one day, Mom's words inspired me to get up and moving. Only God knew her comments here on the blog are a legacy for not only me, but anyone else wondering how much a mother and daughter could care for one another. A blessing to count.
With this being said, I'm VERY glad I decided to sign up for today's craft show and Christmas in Mexico next month. I've found myself smiling because I know how much Mom enjoyed going and when her health prevented her, she still liked to hear about who we saw and about the different things for sale. I'm thankful for my 'get over it' mentality today, I almost missed a blessing. I hope you can get out and if you do, stop by and introduce yourself, and who knows, maybe pick up a couple books for gifts this year. A great day to start the holiday season and ignite Christmas spirit in the hearts of others.
Before you head out, will you say an extra prayer for those in Paris and the multitude grieving and affected by yesterday's devastation. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted, let's lift them in prayer.
The common factor, Mom was right there with me, making memories. Memories I'll cherish. An observation from a couple decades of craft fair attendance, we are not the only family that enjoys this tradition, and most people travel in packs of laughter, discussion, and merriment.
I debated not doing craft shows this year. As much as I enjoy visiting with people, meeting my readers and Facebook friends, I was not feeling it. One thing is missing, Mom. Then it dawned on me, thanks to the words of my mother...she might not be here physically but her memory, our memories, and her voice remain. As I packed my containers last night I found Mom's business cards for her "Burn Baby Burn" plaques. I smiled at the memory of surprising Mom with these cards and then a few tears as I tucked these cards away.
The friendship, love, and time with my Mom is a part of me and woven into all the moments of my life. As I looked at an old blog one day, Mom's words inspired me to get up and moving. Only God knew her comments here on the blog are a legacy for not only me, but anyone else wondering how much a mother and daughter could care for one another. A blessing to count.
With this being said, I'm VERY glad I decided to sign up for today's craft show and Christmas in Mexico next month. I've found myself smiling because I know how much Mom enjoyed going and when her health prevented her, she still liked to hear about who we saw and about the different things for sale. I'm thankful for my 'get over it' mentality today, I almost missed a blessing. I hope you can get out and if you do, stop by and introduce yourself, and who knows, maybe pick up a couple books for gifts this year. A great day to start the holiday season and ignite Christmas spirit in the hearts of others.
Before you head out, will you say an extra prayer for those in Paris and the multitude grieving and affected by yesterday's devastation. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted, let's lift them in prayer.
“The Lord is close |  |
See you today or next month in Christmas in Mexico!
11/6/2015
TGFAD...Thank God For Another Day
Two weeks ago I posted a blog to challenge you to say TGFAD. As part of this challenge, our goal was to wake up each morning thanking God for another day and asking Him to use us to be a blessing for someone else. How have the past two weeks been? If you've done this, then you have formed a new habit or reinforced a trained one.
How has starting the day with thanksgiving in your heart changed your daily, weekly, and eternal outlook? Please share in a comment below. Congrats on achieving your goal. If you didn't join us the first time, it's never too late. Start your mind shift right now! God's always listening.
How has starting the day with thanksgiving in your heart changed your daily, weekly, and eternal outlook? Please share in a comment below. Congrats on achieving your goal. If you didn't join us the first time, it's never too late. Start your mind shift right now! God's always listening.
How has a TGFAD approach to life changed your perspective?
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