Announcement from Maggie: New Website & Blog

Hello Everyone!

Please visit Linda's new website at www.lindamassucci.wordpress.com  It is under construction for the next few weeks, so be patient & kind :-) 

My blog, 'Thoughts from Maggie', will be posted only on the new website. All material on Blogger will be deleted within the next few weeks. The website, lindamassucci.com, will expire within the next month.


The new year will see the release of 'Legacy of Grandpa's Grapevine'. It is the first book in the trilogy: The Manciano Family. Also, Linda will continue to blog about 'When It's Family' and 'America the Beautiful'.  I'm sure there will be a few surprises, too!

So come on over & join the fun at my new hang-out: www.lindamassucci.wordpress.com
I'll be waiting for you!
Love & Licks-
Maggie

Maggie's Thought for the Week: Dogs Tails Never Lie... Same With Humans

Body language tells a lot about a person. When we are nervous, our bodies may shake, twitch, sway or even start to sweat. Happiness may look like tears streaming down one's face, uncontrollable belly laughter or even gasping for breath. Now lying....that's when it gets tricky.

Maggie was a good dog. However, sometimes she did get into a little mischief. She ate my building plans for a log cabin, chewed the wood trim in the hallway and killed a few chipmunks in the yard. Whenever she did these things, she would look at me and wait for my response. If my tone was low while saying her name, she knew something was wrong. Knowing this, her tail would always go between her back legs. Seeing this, I knew she was disappointed & would learn from her mistake. Maggie was a smart dog- she often never made the same mistake twice.

I wish humans were like Maggie. If only we could realize when our actions are disappointing to others or not acceptable- and never do it again. I guess this weakness is why so many people lie. People lie to get out of bad situations, try to make themself look better, or- the complete lowest of lies- to knowingly hurt someone else for the own selfish needs. How can you tell when a person is lying? Unfortunately, it takes time to get to know a person's habits. However, once you do, always trust your instinct.

Whether it's a wagging tail or devilish grin- a liar always gives a clue.

'The liar’s punishment is not in the least that he is not believed, but that he cannot believe anyone else.'
~George Bernard Shaw

Maggie's Thought for the Week: Be Proud of Yourself

Ever notice the many different ways people accept a compliment? Some people blush, others deny the amount of hard work & time in their accomplishment, and some just say- 'oh, it was nothing.'  It's okay to accept a compliment.

Maggie enjoyed being the center of attention. She loved when people admired her new haircut and called her 'pretty dog'. She wagged her tail with extra excitement when she discovered a treat secretly placed in a toy, or found a hidden ball in the yard. She jumped and twirled when she caught a fly in the house, and waited anxiously for praise & cuddles. Maggie was proud of herself when she accomplished something, and wasn't shy about showing it.

Every person should never feel uncomfortable about showing pride in their accomplishments. Our purpose in life is to make this world a better place. Our actions should always be positive & encourage others to bring out the best in them. When Maggie was excited, it excited others around her. This positive emotion brings positive energy.

Ever notice what a person with negative energy brings to a room? Ever ask yourself why someone can not be happy for others accomplishments? The answers are usually a result of a persons own insecurities and lack of confidence. One can not take pride in someone's success, unless they have experienced pride in their own success.

It's okay to be proud of yourself.
Even better to encourage the feeling of pride in others. 

Maggie's Thought for the Week: Every Day Is a Holiday

There are certain times of the year people race to be with their loved ones, spend hours decorating their homes, or exhaust themselves trying to find the perfect gift. The reason for this chaos? Holidays.

Maggie loved every thing about every day. She looked forward to walks every day at six in the morning. She twirled for her morning dental chew and night time cookie. Daily greetings to neighbors and chasing squirrels in the yard exhibited the same excitement as a toddler on Christmas morning.  Although these things were routine, to a stranger, one might think it was a special day... a holiday.

We all need to remember that every day should be viewed as a holiday. Every day is a gift. Another day to spend with loved ones, make our world a better place, and remind friends how special they are to us. A holiday should not be the only time people rearrange schedules for family dinners or spending time with old friends.

What if everyone gave true thanks for the gift of every day- every day?

America the Beautiful: Hill City, South Dakota

If you're looking for America, Hill City South Dakota is your destination. American history, wildlife, old-fashioned downtown shops, and restaurant food that tastes like grandma's Sunday dinner- it's all here.

Explore the Black Hills by steam train. The twenty mile round trip between Hill City and Keystone will provide amazing photos of landscapes, animals and the post card perfect towns of Keystone & Hill City. Of course, anyone who collects trains will be in awe with riding the locomotive- just like our ancestors did in the old days. After the ride, a myriad of shops and eatery's await.

Mount Rushmore is a must see for every American. The light show at night will leave you in tears & honored to be a U.S. citizen. Gutzon Borglum, and his son Lincoln, would be proud to know over two million people visit this monument every year. In 1927, the initial concept was to sculpt the presidents from head to waist. However, lack of funding forced the construction to end in 1941. Washington, Jefferson, T. Roosevelt and Lincoln were chosen because of their dedication to preserving the Republic and expanding the territory. Mount Rushmore received its name from the leader of a prospecting expedition, Charles Rushmore, and his crew- David Swanzey (husband of Carrie Ingalls) & Bill Challis.

The Crazy Horse monument is a privately funded project commissioned by Henry Standing Bear to pay tribute to the Ogala Lakota warrior. The sculptor, Korczak Ziolkowski started in 1948 and remained committed to the project until his death in 1982. His wife, Ruth, continued as the supervisor. Her decision to place emphasis on completing the face, as opposed to her husband's idea to complete the base, was a great success. Visitors to the monument increased dramatically, as well as private donations. Ruth died in May 2014.

Custer State Park consists of 71,000 acres of wild life; including 1500 free roaming buffaloes. A drive along Needles Highway is a must with a camera. Although the landscape & animals may seem surreal, it is wise to obey the park rule: Don't Approach the Buffalo. The banks of French Creek is where Custer's expedition discovered gold in 1874. One can also explore the log cabin of Badger Clark- South Dakota's first poet laureate.

Hill City, South Dakota. One of my favorite destinations.
God Bless America

Maggie's Thought for the Week...Be Thankful for the Small Stuff

Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on our blessings. Sometimes, these reflections rekindle memories of happier times when loved ones were with us. Other times, our thoughts may help us appreciate the fortunate opportunities & gifts in our lives.

Maggie was a great reminder of all the blessings in our world. She enjoyed scratching her back on the freshly cut lawn; just happy to have a yard to romp about on those carefree summer evenings. The smell of the slow-cooker on Sunday afternoons made her mouth salivate; as she guarded the kitchen until dinner was served. Family visits and guests to our home meant belly rubs or a new squeaky toy. Snuggled under her favorite blanket in her soft bed on a snowy day, while her owner watched old movies & drank hot chocolate.

We often forget it's the small stuff that creates the best memories. All the 'ordinaries' in our daily lives, when gone, becomes the most difficult to live without.

Be thankful for the small stuff.

When It's Family... I Remember Marriage Meant Forever

My childhood memories include family day-trips, holiday gatherings and Sunday barbecues. I can remember playing kickball in the neighborhood, riding bikes with friends, and watching 'Little House on the Prairie' with my sister. Most importantly, I recall most of my friends having parents who were married. Divorce...Separated...these words were said in a whisper & not very often. What happened?

That question got me thinking a few years ago. So, I decided to find out why. Why do so many people get divorced today? Why do so many people decide to live together without being married? Why has saying 'it's over' become so easy to say?

I thought about interviewing divorced couples and couples living together. I quickly realized that was the wrong direction. I remembered my father's advice- 'If you want to learn how to do something right, watch an expert.'  What qualifies a couple to be an expert at marriage. I decided, it was those who are still happily married after a reasonable amount of time as a married couple.

I don't remember exactly how I decided on the number of years, but I selected thirty. I would interview couples who have been married for thirty years or more. My questions were simple- Why do you think you are still married? Why do you think couples today don't stay married? What advice would you give newlyweds today?

Their responses were honest, heartfelt and memorable. What do I remember most from the interviews? The understanding that marriage is a job for a life-time. It takes constant nurturing, commitment and faith. That's a huge undertaken in a society that prides itself in fast, easy and replaceable.

After completing the book, I've had many interviewers ask if I think staying married for a life-time is realistic. My answer is yes....although I haven't tried it yet.

What do you think?

Maggie's Thought for the Week: Manners Are Important

Our world is constantly changing. Every day we hear how something can make our lives easier, or get something done faster. I believe one thing should never change- expecting everyone to have manners.

Maggie had impeccable manners. She waited her turn for the ball. She knew not to continue barking after being told to stop. She did not jump on people after hearing the word 'down'. As a puppy, it was difficult for her to stop the 'puppy-eyes' look for a piece of cheese. However, she eventually learned, sitting up straight & looking cute would get a treat much quicker.

People have lost the art of good manners. Somewhere along the way, it became unnecessary  to say thank you and please. Conversations now occur with listeners never looking the speaker in the eyes. The awareness of the tone of one's voice or facial expression is not easily understood; thanks to texting & social media. The thought of having 1,000 'friends' leads one to think it's okay to 'lose a few... I'll just get more.'

I always hold the door for the person behind me. Once, in the subway of New York City, I gave my seat to a pregnant lady- after watching three men remain seated in theirs as she walked by them. I look at people when they are talking to me, and listen to what they have to say. I verbally greet others on my daily walks or acknowledge their smile. The response I receive is always the same- 'You have such nice manners. Nobody does that anymore.'

When did having manners make someone anomalous?

When It's Family... I Remember My Army Buddies

Most people know me as a teacher. Thanks to a book contract and social media, more people are getting to know me as a writer. But once, for a brief period in my life, I was a soldier.

It always brings a smile to my face when people say to me, 'I can't picture you in the Army'.  I suppose most people assume the military means fighting with weapons and lots of push-ups. I do remember the push-ups and training for a multitude of weapons. However, the most important thing I learned from my training was always leaving someone or something better than when you first arrived. The best way to accomplish this goal- be helpful, be consistent and be prepared.

This goal is easy to accomplish with friends or colleagues who have the same goal. Maybe that's why I remember my soldier days as a time when it was so much easier to get things done. Everyone had a buddy who had your back. You and your buddy were part of a platoon who all shared the same goal. The main reason for our high success rate?  If the job didn't get done, the result was loss of life or failure to move forward. We all depended on each other and civilians depended on us.

Always being together meant good times & great memories. I recall the Saturday afternoons sitting on the steps of the barracks for the mail to arrive; hoping for someone to get a box of cookies. Waiting in line for an hour to make a phone call home; while waiting, talking to fellow soldiers about what our moms might be cooking for dinner if we were home. Climbing down fire escapes after 'social time' to meet the guys for an illegal soda or candy bar.

We were young. We knew we would all go in different directions. For a moment, though, we were together. So, we enjoyed our time every day. Not knowing the future, but being prepared & ready made us feel safe. Some of us never had the chance to grow old. Some of us live with fond memories.

God Bless Those Who Served & Those Who Serve Today

When It's Family... I Remember Swings

When I was a kid, there was a swing in the backyard. It was a place to day dream or spend time with a friend. You took turns pushing someone higher until their feet appeared to touch the sky, and you both giggled for each others emotional mix of fright & excitement.

In grammar school, I loved swinging with my classmates. On the school playground, we would have contests who could swing the highest or who could jump off and land the farthest. Sometimes, we would all swing in unison and talk about our teachers, parents or those stinky boys who always pulled our pony tails. It was those times we learned the art of conversation, friendship and supporting each other.  

Does anyone day dream any more? Swinging by yourself is a great opportunity to meditate and just enjoy being with you. Thinking about places you've been and places you want to go. Interesting how you can swing by yourself and nobody worries if you are lonely or upset. However, if you sit on a bench, people often ask if everything is okay.

Once, on vacation, there was a swing overlooking the ocean. Almost every morning, I woke up before sunrise to exercise on the beach. I would end my work out by watching the sunrise while sitting on the swing. Sometimes, my feet would pump the swing back & forth. Other mornings, I would just sit and stare towards the horizon- reflecting on past experiences and future endeavors. It was comforting and energizing at the same time.

I love swings.

Maggie's Thought for the Week: Every Season Is A Present

In New England, every season brings the same reaction to many- work to do for preparation of the coming season. Fall means raking leaves, protecting plants against frost, and the yearly furnace cleaning or wood stacking for the stove. Winter involves raking roofs to avoid ice dams, drying seeds for spring planting, and prioritizing house projects that can be accomplished once spring arrives. Spring chores include washing windows, fertilizing plants & lawns, and house repairs from the winter snowstorms. The summer season finds many relaxing on vacations planned during the 'winter blues', but also includes yard work, pool parties, and smores cooked over the fire pit.

Maggie enjoyed every season. Fall meant running thru leaves and trying to catch them in her mouth. Winter brought snow to roll in and smells from the slow cooker to fill the house with mouth-watering aromas. Spring was a time to enjoy the smell of fresh cut grass & blooming flowers as the days became longer. Summer meant dips in the pool to cool her paws and rest in the shade on the deck- waiting for that cherished scoop of vanilla ice cream on Sundays.

People tend to rush through the seasons. We talk about holiday madness, winter chores & spring cleaning. Many try to create picture-perfect summer vacations and Curry & Ives Family Christmas letters. Maybe we should just enjoy the present season, present holiday and the present moment. After all, no matter how much we worry or prepare, the seasons will come & go...and eventually they will all become a memory.

Every season is a present. Cherish the moments it brings. It may be your last season with a special someone. Enjoy the gift.

Maggie's Thought for the Week: Walk with Confidence & Contentment

Just one spoken word and Maggie would be at the door- eyes straight ahead, tail up and tongue panting with excitement. The word that could do all this? Walk.

Maggie enjoyed walking. Like most dogs, it meant discovering new smells, protecting familiar territory, and saying hello to friends. She never missed any of the action. Maggie walked with a purposeful stride and look of confidence.

As a people watcher, I have observed my fellow humans pace with anxiety, power walk with purpose, or linger with a look of bewilderment. I have watched people look straight ahead with an empty gaze, stare at the ground, or their eyes trapped in a technical gadget. Do they know how much they are missing?

Ever watch someone walking a dog? Their gait shows purpose, but also a willingness to change their direction. An awareness of their surroundings, and sense of living in the moment, can be observed. Interesting how these characteristics can describe someone with confidence and contentment.

Maybe we should all walk with dogs?

Maggie's Thought for the Week: Mind Your Own Business

Maggie was a very happy dog. I just assumed she was that way, because all her needs were provided for by me. Then, I realized the main reason Maggie was so happy. She would always mind her own business.

Like most dogs, Maggie guarded her territory from the United Parcel Service, squirrels, and any dog who tried to leave his 'calling card' on her land. That's okay. It was her yard & her business to protect. Maggie never barked when the neighbors were working in their own yard, a car drove by, or at customers in the pet store. Their lives were not her business.

I wonder how many people would live happier lives if they just minded their own business? Every person took care of the problems & daily chores that pertained to their family or job description. It would be the end to office gossip, neighborhood conflicts and intrusive relatives. It would decrease the need for anxiety medications, abuse of alcohol, and long lines at the Human Resource office.

Maggie knew her business. She knew where her energy was needed and where it didn't matter. Makes me wonder... Are dogs smarter than humans?

Sunnybank Secrets . . . With Music in Their Hearts: Spies of WWII

'With Music in Their Hearts: The Spies of WWII', is written by author friend Carole Brown. The story is an historical mystery thriller, with a bit of romance. Carole's writing will not disappoint! She is a former elementary teacher, and devoted wife, mother & grandmother. She is represented by Hartline Agency. Please check out her website & consider her latest release as a wonderful holiday gift for someone who loves a well-written story from a passionate author.
http://sunnebnkwrtr.blogspot.com/p/with-music-in-their-hearts.html

When It's Family... A Quarter Bought a Carousel

Today, you can't buy much for a quarter. I don't think children even ask for a quarter any more. I did. However, when I was a kid, a quarter could buy you a carousel.

I remember the quarter rides in the front of the shopping stores. My hometown had a Caldor's, Kmart and Madison's.  At each one, you could find a shiny carousel or horse just waiting for you to pay the quarter fee. In return, a few exciting minutes of being jostled back & forth on a horse, or spinning around the carousel. And yes, there was music.

There was much involved before getting permission to ride the carousel or horse. First, before entering the store, I had to make sure my mother noticed the ride.  Then, I would promise to be on my best behavior; staying close to the cart & not asking for every toy the manager strategically had placed at kid-view in the check-out line. Finally, upon leaving the store, watching mom placing her change back in her purse after paying the bill. Would she keep a quarter in her hand for the ride?

As I recall from my childhood, I got to ride the carousel many times. Not always, but often enough to remember the simple joy it brought for a few minutes. A quarter doesn't go very far these days, but the memories of what it used to buy are priceless.

Maggie's Thought for the Week: Loyalty Is Always Top Priority

Our world is filled with a lot of people. Our jobs introduce us to many people. Our transient & technological society allows us to make many friends across the globe. How do we decide which people to develop a relationship with and trust our thoughts & dreams?

Maggie showed the answer every day. She was loyal. Every morning I would leave for work and she never destroyed our home. Every afternoon, she greeted me with licks & jumps. She was my shadow while working outside in the yard.  During walks, she never left my side without permission; okay, an occasional squirrel sometimes swayed her better judgement- but she always came when bribed with a cookie.

Loyalty is revered as a wonderful quality, but lacking in so much of our world.  The commitment to do as you say, keep your promise, honor your spouse & family, and treat others how you want to be treated can all be categorized under the topic 'one who displays loyalty'.  Qualities one must have in a friend, spouse & employee or co-worker. Can we see the same if we looked in the mirror?

Maggie was a loyal buddy. I was loyal to her. She taught me the importance of being loyal to other people. Thanks Maggie :-)

 

America the Beautiful...Wyoming, The Cowboy State

In 1807, John Colter thought he was going on just another fur trapping job. Instead, while setting traps, he came upon geysers & hot springs that were so beautiful and indescribable, he encouraged his friends back home to see what he saw. Today, millions of visitors travel to Yellowstone every year to experience what John Colter stumbled upon.

The state of Wyoming is mostly known for its natural beauty and majestic mountain ranges. It is where the Great Plains meet the Rocky Mountains. It is also the land of many firsts. In 1869, women in Wyoming were the first to win the right to vote. In 1925, Mrs. Nellie Tayloe Ross became the first woman governor in the United States. Wyoming can also claim the first national monument; Devils Tower.

Devils Tower was declared a national monument by Theodore Roosevelt on September 24, 1906. It rises 1,267 feet above the surrounding terrain. More than 400,000 tourist visit every year. There are many Native American stories about the creation of Devils Tower. Here's just one of many:

According to the Native American tribes of the Kiowa and Lakota, some girls went out to play and were spotted by several giant bears, who began to chase them. In an effort to escape the bears, the girls climbed atop a rock, fell to their knees, and prayed to the Great Spirit to save them. Hearing their prayers, the Great Spirit made the rock rise from the ground towards the heavens so that the bears could not reach the girls. The bears, in an effort to climb the rock, left deep claw marks in the sides, which had become too steep to climb. (Those are the marks which appear today on the sides of Devils Tower.) When the girls reached the sky, they were turned into the star constellation the Pleiades.

Whether you are visiting the High Plains, Grand Teton National Park, or Fort Laramie-the first permanent trading post, Wyoming will remind you of what America used to be, and why our country continues to be admired by so many today.

God Bless America
 

Maggie's Thought for the Week: Everyone Needs a Buddy

Maggie had many dog friends whom she visited in the neighborhood. She anxiously awaited her four-legged neighbors during the summer and fall evenings. However, she had one special buddy.

Her special buddy was me. Maggie knew I would protect, feed, and love her. We walked together, played together and survived thunderstorms together. She waited patiently on Saturday mornings while I completed writing assignments; knowing a hike somewhere was her reward. Sunday was a day of togetherness and a special meal; lamb chops were always well received!

Everyone needs a buddy in life; whether it's human or animal. We all need to feel valued, loved, understood and safe. Sometimes, with all the technology in our world, we forget the importance of being with someone & building a relationship. The sincerity one feels in a loved one's look or smile while being together, can never be replaced via an Instagram or Face Book message.

Maggie was my special buddy, too. I knew she would protect me and love me; even after a long day at work away from her. She was my body guard and confidant. Maggie knew my schedule, my mannerisms, and my expectations.We were best buds.

A buddy who never let me down. That was my Maggie.

Lucky me.

America the Beautiful...Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is 469 miles of the best scenery within the Appalachian Mountains. The parkway can be enjoyed from May until late-October. You have to see it to believe it, as no photo will ever do justice to the heavenly views.

President Franklin D. Roosevelt initiated the project on September 11, 1935. It was originally called the Appalachian Scenic Highway. The project provided employment throughout difficult economic times in our country. The Blue Ridge Parkway took 52 years to complete.

                                                          (Linn Cove Viaduct)

The parkway was built to connect the Shenandoah National Park to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The speed limit of 45 miles per hour, and maybe a little slower while driving on the nail-biting Linn Cove Viaduct, may hinder many visitors from completing the entire journey. Luckily, a stop in Roanoke, Virginia at the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center (mile post 115) will eliminate missing any breath-taking views. The center has a 24 minute film about the region and a 22 foot interactive map of the entire Blue Ridge Parkway; known as the I-Wall.
 

The Blue Ridge Parkway will be represented on North Carolina's America the Beautiful quarter in 2015.
God Bless America

When It's Family...Advice from Dad is Timeless

I love listening to friends talk about their father. Usually, the conversations all share one theme- Dad's advice is timeless. 

Fathers often get 'looked over' during the early childhood years. Everything seems to be about kids and their mommy's. The dad is the silent soldier who stands guard and offers a quick nod of agreement, or wink of an eye to instill some confidence as their teenager ventures into the real world.

Frequently, it isn't until our young adult years that we begin to realize how smart the man actually was, and still is. The funny stories can now be understood with their hidden message. The wrinkled forehead that once was viewed as a look of frustration, now means a sign of someone who cares enough to worry about your happiness more than his own.

A father's words of advice will survive our constant changing society, because people will always crave love, safety and faith. 'Don't waste time on a man who isn't ready to marry you. He's letting you know he isn't a man yet. Why waste your time with a boy?'  'Marry someone who will be your best friend, because when times get tough, that's what you will need.' 'Remember where you came from and all the people who love you, don't bother listening to anyone else. They don't know you like I do.'  'You can always come home.'  'Life will be hard at times, but I didn't raise a quitter. Never say can't.'  'Love doesn't hurt.' 'It's important to know a little bit about cars and home repairs.' 'Always trust your gut, sometimes your brain over- thinks things.'  'Treat people the way you want to be treated.'  'Even if no one is watching- do the right thing. God will see and He remembers everything.' 'Someday, you will miss my great advice.'

If you're smiling now, then congratulations on joining the 'Remember Dad's Advice' club. I know not everyone in life is fortunate enough to have such memories or receive such advice. Hopefully, all of us can receive such wisdom through family, friends or other types of media. The words of wisdom Elizabeth receives from her Grandpa Frank in my book 'Legacy of Grandpa's Grapevine', may help the reader understand the meaning of family & commitment to each other.  Others may look towards television or movies to find what their childhood lacked, and they desire to instill in their children.

Whatever your circumstance may be, a father's advice will remain timeless.







http://youtu.be/ZGZq9fgVZB8

Maggie's Thought for the Week: Don't Look Back

They say looking back is a sign of regret. If this is so, then Maggie had no regrets. We should all live with such passion & confidence.

Maggie, like most dogs, loved riding in the car. She always looked out the front window, and sometimes the side; especially if a squirrel was in her vision. We would drive to our favorite walking places on the weekends. She would jump out of the car and follow the trail ahead of us. Upon leaving, she would never look out the rear window to catch one more glimpse of our hiking adventure. She would always be looking out the front window with anticipation of what was coming next. The walk was done. It was great. It's over. Move on.

People spend a lot of time looking back. The usual scenarios of over thinking a relationship that has ended, leaving a place of employment, or analyzing one's parenting skills. What is the purpose of looking back? Is it helping you move forward?

Maggie brought love & excitement to everything she did. She was happy to be where she was, and she was happy when it was time to move forward. Not always knowing what was waiting for her, but always believing the best was yet to come.

What a great way to live.

When It's Family...Everyone Has 'Their Dish'

I don't know how it happens, but I can honestly say every family has it happening to them. Every party, special occasion or impromptu meeting lends to a relative earning the title- Their Dish.

As a child, I knew a family reunion meant mom was making potato salad. At Christmas, I knew which casserole came from every aunt & mom always baked the cookies. My grandma had her special way of making chicken & my nanny made spaghetti and meatballs. My dad makes the best lasagna. Everyone loves my sister's stuffing. As for me, the requests range from deviled eggs, brownies and pasta fagoli.

I find the label comforting. An inner feeling of joy, knowing you are making someone else happy, just by sharing something you take pleasure in creating. The gift of food & sharing time with one another. It creates memories that, at times, helps us through difficult moments. It creates lasting relationships & peaceful resolutions.

They say you can't be mad at somebody once you break bread with them. You may not like them, but you will leave the table understanding them.  And, when you understand someone, your hate towards them is replaced with prayers & patience.

Maggie's Thought for the Week: Quiet Time Is Important

Our life journey includes many stages. One day we find ourselves worrying about college loans and the next- it's worries about mortgage payments & caring for our family. 

  

Whenever I share my worries, I receive the same solemn advice: just breathe, this too shall pass. Sometimes, life gets so loud & fast pace, it is difficult to just breathe. The result can be a migraine, decrease in patience towards our loved ones, or even the 'it's time to open the container of chocolate ice cream'.

  Maggie would often find a quiet place when the company stayed too late or the neighborhood party became too loud. She never barked or whimpered at the inconvenience.  Many times,
I would find her curled up on a cushion on the deck or her favorite corner in the bathroom.
 
Maggie knew the importance of removing herself from a situation that was becoming overwhelming. As adults, we often feel the need to fix everything or help everyone who asks. We often forget the importance to 'step away' and find our own quiet time.

The other day, I felt agitated just thinking about my to-do list for work & home. I took a deep breath. I made myself a cup of coffee and sat on my deck. I watched the hawk swirl in the sky, admired my beautiful mums, and observed the leaves starting to change colors. I didn't complete my to-do list that day, but I did find some quiet time for myself...and that's important, too.

When It's Family...I Think of Mom's Roses

I love flowers. My mom had lots of flowers in our yard, and always tended to them in the summer evenings. Her rose bushes smelled beautiful, and bloomed from spring to late fall.

My mom received her rose bushes as a gift from her father-in-law, my Grandpa Frank. My grandfather loved flowers. He owned a flower store and worked long hours & many holidays. I'm sure he appreciated the care my mother took with the rose bushes. I learned from her the importance of tending to something with care, and giving just enough fertilizer & water.

The greatest reward with flowers is giving them to others. I remember my mother wrapping freshly cut roses in a wet paper towel and aluminum foil. Then, my sister and I would take the roses to school for our classroom teacher. (It didn't help with my grades.) Other times, she would give a rose to a neighbor. A smile from the recipient every time!

Now, the rose bushes are in my yard. Just the other day, I picked the last few buds before our first New England frost arrived. I placed them in a small vase in my kitchen and hoped they would bloom. The next morning, as I walked downstairs, I could smell the beautiful scent of the roses. I walked into my kitchen and saw them all in bloom. I smiled.


*******************************************************************************************
Someone recently asked me where I get my ideas. I get my ideas from my memories- the good & bad ones. Whenever I see rose bushes- I think of my mom, lazy summers spent at home playing with the kids in the neighborhood, and having chores in the yard- which I loved! I take all those memories and, with a little creativity, write a story. The following is an excerpt from the soon to be released 'Legacy of Grandpa's Grapevine'. The lesson that Grandpa Frank is trying to teach Elizabeth was written from the reflections I shared in today's blog: When It's Family...I Think of Mom's Roses.

“Not yet, don’t rush when you plant flowers. You plant flowers like you plant your life. You see, first you loosen the soil. You see if it’s good to grow things here, not too many rocks to get in your way. Then, you arrange the flowers on the ground and take a few steps back like so and say, yes, all looks good. I wouldn’t change a thing. Then, you cover the roots with a little dirt and give a little food and care and then you watch them grow.”  Grandpa Frank stepped back to admire the first planted row of flowers.

          “And now I plant the white, Grandpa Frank?”

          “Yes. You see, it gets easier as you go along, just like life. That first row you make, you must be very careful and have everything just so. Or everything else will not look so nice.”

Maggie's Thought for the Week: You Have Better Things To Do

Maggie and I would walk every morning at six o'clock. Our walk consisted of the street up & down our neighborhood, and at times, a turn down a cul-de-sac. Maggie had some special friends she always visited, and a few 'claimed territories' to leave her calling card. The neighbors would set their clocks by our walks.

When Maggie was three years old, she started to get wise to some of the neighborhood dogs. A few would always yelp and jump along side their invisible fence. Their actions seemed to annoy Maggie. She was content to just say hello with a wag of her tail, and maybe a quick sniff. In response to their unwanted actions, Maggie would often pull on her leash to cross the street. If they weren't going to change, she would make the change. Maggie had better things to do.

In life, you can't help everyone change their negativity, inappropriate behavior, or poor life choices. You can change your actions. Sometimes, we just have to move forward and accept the things that are out of our control. You have better things to do.