just be...m[E]

i'm bummed...

So, today is "super Tuesday," and I am honestly bummed out that I didn't get to participate in this history making event. Yes, I am talking about the primaries, and how bummed I am that Kentucky isn't voting today. I'm still taking it easy (after spending lots of time on the couch this weekend with a touch of the flu), sitting with my latest Creating Keepsakes magazine watching the numbers come in. I must admit that I was never really that interested in politics until college, but now I want to learn and do my part in making our world a better place. I feel proud today, in the year 2008, that we have the choice to vote for an African American man, and a woman at the same time. Wow! I must admit, I never thought that would happen. No matter how you vote, it is still amazing how far we have come, and I can't imagine what life will be like when Baby Wells can vote. Really amazing stuff! Makes me proud to be an American today...just wish I could have voted! Ugh! So, to those of you in states that could vote, I hope you took part and enjoyed the process. We can make a difference...one vote at a time.

peace.

remembering & reflecting...

I found it hard to focus today, since my heart was constantly going back 6 years each time I wrote the date. It's one of things I will never forget, nor will any American old enough to remember the tragic day of
September 11, 2001. I spent the day thinking of the loss of life, and also the strength we as a country felt as we came together to help one another. Whether it be donating time, money, or just taking a minute in prayer, we were really there for each other. Showing pride, love and true patriotism for our country, and most importantly support to those who lost loved ones. As I reflected today, I felt proud but also sad, that we are continuing to loose so many lives in the war overseas, and here within our own boundaries. Just watching the news at night and hearing about the violence that occurs on a daily basis, makes me wish more Americans truly remembered the pride and love we shared in the days following 9/11. It seems that such a life changing tragedy, would remind people to find peace and love within their heart, and to move forward without hate and violence. I know we can do it. We as citizens of the United States of America can come together to support each other. We can look past differences, and understand we are all a part of this amazing land, one that is free and full of opportunities. We can be grateful, loving, kind and compassionate towards all others, full of diversity and patience. We can do it. Together. These are the thoughts that raced through my mind today...6 years later.

Before ending this somewhat "deep" reflection, I must send a special "shout out" to all of my family members serving in the military. I admire your strength, courage and determination to fight for our country. I will always be grateful. Special thanks to my brother in law Dan who is currently overseas in Iraq (or somewhere nearby) for his second tour of duty. Please keep him in your prayers, as well as my sister Holly and family, as this will be an amazingly hard year for all of them.

How can I not end this post with peace and love. I love you all...my dear family and friends. Be safe and know how much you mean to me. Let us never forget.

7.7.07

Crazy isn't it...7.7.07! Seems unreal to me, how fast time goes. Anyway, is your TV on? If not, run to it and turn on the Live Earth concert. It is amazing, and so educational. Not only am I listening to great music (and watching cutie Carson Daily), but I'm learning so much about how I can help save our planet, our home...our earth. Really...who knew that even when you are not using an item that is plugged in, it produces tons of  wasted energy. OK, that may make me sound really dumb, but I had honestly never thought about it that way. (Go ahead and laugh...I'm OK with it!) So, check out Live Earth and see how you can help.

Thanks for allowing me to stand on my "soap box" for a minute...together we can make a difference!

peace.

one final plea...

After a long, I mean long, day at school it was amazing to come home to my Mom. She is here to begin work in the morning. I love that she can stay here. Just hanging out...and of course the fact that she does my laundry and cooks is an added bonus! Anyway, thanks Mom. I do appreciate it!

On to my plea... As I posted before, my scrapbooking "friend" Ali Edwards is trying to raise money for Autism Speaks. Thus far she has raised over $30,000.00! Wow. Truly amazing. I'm proud to have donated, but more importantly to help such an important cause. Hmmm...I'm thinking I'll wear my autism shirt tomorrow to further show my support. The saying is perfect..."Enough is enough...Solve the puzzle." Love it. Here's an older photo of Susan and I sporting our t-shirts. Aren't we cute! Ha!

  If you can, please donate. I know it would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks again for listening to me stand on my "soap box." Back to regular blogging ASAP!

Have a great Friday and weekend! One more day until spring break! I can hardly wait!!

peace and love...

1 in 150...

1 in 150 children in the US are diagnosed with Autism. Truly astounding and mind blowing. Something that I am affected by each day. No, I do not have a child with Autism, but as the teacher of many it is near and dear to my heart... Which leads me to this request. If you can, please check out Ali Edwards Six Degrees badge on her blog. She began raising money as part of Kevin Bacon's fundraising efforts. The idea is to support any charity of your choice, with the top amounts matched by him....and a possible "date" with Kevin. (not really, just a meeting). Yes, it sounds fun doesn't it, but it will also benefit SO MANY people with Autism. Thanks so much... Check it out...

So glad it's Friday. Off to relax and chill after a LONG week!

Miss and love you all.... peace...