Lessons from a Dog

                                       

In my forty plus years, I've had some wonderful opportunities & experiences. I have seen almost every state in these United States, received accolades for my service in the military and as an educator, managed a small business which protected the rights of our greatest resource-children, and developed life-long relationships with positive, energetic & altruistic people.

Five years ago, I decided the place I called home, would be my home for the next fifteen years or so. I focused more on my writing and less on traveling. I liked spending my summer days gardening in the morning, writing for a few hours every day, and watching the sunset from my deck in the evening. My home was perfect, but sometimes too quiet. So, I decided to get a dog.

I thought a dog would be perfect. My own little buddy to walk with, play in the yard and teach cute tricks. I was right. Having a dog was perfect & I did teach my Maggie a few tricks; we walk every day and love to play in the yard. However, I had no idea all the lessons she would teach me. Here's what I learned from my dog:
     1. You are replaceable at work, not at home.
     2. If something goes wrong, just shake it off & walk away.
     3. You have the right to defend yourself & bark sometimes.
     4. If something smells bad, walk away.
     5. Let people know you are happy to see them.
     6. Naps are important.
     7. It's okay to just sit.
     8. Play every day.
     9. Hug someone every day.
    10. Life is short.

I am sure the list will continue to grow....and I am thankful for that. After the many health scares with Maggie this past year, I am lucky to celebrate her 5th birthday on April 1st. Yes, April Fool's Day. Hmmm..Lesson #11- It's okay to be foolish.

Book Update

'Legacy of Grandpa's Grapevine' is being reviewed by a few publishers. Please keep me in your thoughts & prayers the next few months. I am hoping to have a signed contract by the end of the summer.

Many have asked about the proposal from Helping Hands Press last fall. There are a few obstacles with the publisher at this time, but I am hoping a resolution is soon.

I feel very fortunate to have come this far, and believe I will continue to go even further in my writing endeavors! Thank you to everyone for their positive words and support.

End of the Road

                                                           End of the Road

                                            Sunrises are now a scene of beauty,
                                            No need to rush or plan the day.
                                            Friends may come and stay a while-
                                           No chores, just tasks completed with a smile.

                                           Many roads have led to this-

                                          Some bumpy, and many with twists.
                                          Now all is smooth, so much to enjoy;
                                          It's just a pleasure to be alive.

                                          The end of the road- is that what it's called?
                                          No matter the name, I treasure the view.

                                                                                Linda Massucci

                                     
                                  

It Only Takes One Book...

As a reading teacher and writer, I am often asked what my favorite book is.  The truth is, I don't have a favorite book. I think it's like asking a parent which child is their favorite. Each book I read provides me with the enjoyment, wisdom or humor needed at the time. However, I do have a book that I am certain provided me with the encouragement to start writing my own stories.

'A Tree Grows in Brooklyn', by Betty Smith, was the first book I recall reading and saying to myself 'I can write like that'. The story of Francie Nolan sharing her life struggles, loving & not always perfect family members, and showing it's okay for a girl to have a little spunk!  In my opinion, it represents the American Dream is available to anyone with a little tenacity. The symbolism of the tree standing strong and growing, when all surrounding circumstances predict it should not...that's my kind of story.

My soon to be published series of the Manciano family represents that same grit and determination for every generation to strive for that American dream. The loving words of wisdom from Grandpa Frank to his granddaughter Elizabeth guides her through life's obstacles even after his death. It's about family, faith and believing in yourself. Those who flourish are those who surround them self with positive light, passion and perseverance. 

'A Tree Grows in Brooklyn' is why I write today. What book has influenced you the most?

Trials & Tribulations: Can't Live Without Them

Sometimes, in life, we face challenges. Many times we ask ourselves why this is happening; 'I am living an honest life' or 'This isn't fair, I am a good person'.  These trials & tribulations are not always because you're doing something wrong, but because you're doing something right.

Every person we meet, every hill we climb and every slope we slide down has crossed our path for a reason. Will you take the time to have a conversation with the person sitting next to you in the airplane, or stare at your laptop? Will you enjoy the view at the top of the hill, instead of complaining about sore muscles? Will you blame a co-worker's unprofessional behavior for pushing you down a slope, or thank them for allowing you to change your direction & distance of their negativity with quick speed.

Sometimes our greatest trials in life lead us to the grandest rewards. 'Don't think it strange when you face fiery trials.' 1 Peter 4:12

What trial or tribulation have you survived? 

Chores for Kids- Are They Extinct?

     As far back into my childhood as I can remember, I always had a chore to complete in the home. Whether it was dusting, cleaning the lint trap in the dryer or washing dishes- no job was too small or of less importance than another.

     Today, I see many children driven to sporting activities, play dates and enrichment classes.  When children aren't participating in these scheduled events, they are watching television, playing video games or on social media.  Although I agree these activities have a place of value, should it be given the most value?

    Has the family connection lost its importance and value? How do we connect as a family? I believe the answer is through chores. When children are given a task to complete, it provides them with a feeling of accomplishment and self-worth. When this task involves helping in the home, it brings the family together as a unit.  The chores assigned help educate children about the value of hard work, accepting responsibility & understanding that life isn't always easy.

     Do you think chores are important for children to have? What chores did you have as a child?

What happened to quality commercials?

The recent Super Bowl had many anticipating the commercials more than the game. I, personally, wait until the next day to watch the news and see the top five. Yes, Super Bowl commercials actually make the news.

I tried to remember the top five commercials from the Super Bowl last year. I couldn't recall one. As I am writing this blog, I can recall two of the Super Bowl commercials from this year. However, I can sing the song from the Coca-Cola commercial from the 1970's, the McDonald's song, Toys 'R' Us, and Oscar Mayer. I can picture Michael Jackson singing for Pepsi and the Irish Spring soap man.

What happened to creating commercials that created a bond with people? Okay, maybe a touch over dramatic. May I just say, I am glad my generation has contributed a message of peace to all by sharing a Coke, listening to raisins singing about a grapevine, and enjoying a special sauce with a Pepsi & an Irish smile.