I have just returned from a five day hiatus in Miami where in my volunteer position , visited locations that housed mentally challenged and elderly residents.  As an advocate,  I look for infractions of poor diet,  lack of toilet items, privacy, telephone privileges and clean linens and clothes as well as clean rooms. I can tell you I had a lump in my throat more than once while holding back  tears as I viewed people living in substandard conditions.  Some bedding not big enough for a child yet being used for an adult.  Three and four to a small room, some with unpainted walls and concrete floors.  Luckily the temperatures are normally warm.   When I write up the infractions and forward them to an agency to handle it, I sometimes wish I was allowed to photograph my findings and send them to local governments to hopefully make them aware and perhaps pose the question “Would you want a family member living in this squalor? 

As we ended the trip and started home the four of us were weary and filled with sadness.   Yet, we do feel somewhat proud of taking the initiative- to volunteer our time- and see how much our input can help.  Why can’t more of us care and share our time, resources and love for our fellow man?

Current Mood: Sad

Can you recall that wonderful song “Release Me” sung by Englebert Humperdinck?  Last night for the first time I could hear it and not burst out in tears.  Forty years ago,  that was his claim to fame, his boost to stardom. 

At that stage of my life, my marriage was at a crossroads and each time I heard the words, “I have found somebody new” I cried.  How could I live my life without this person, how could I be a single parent and survive?  I believe with fortitude and determination and lots of love and support from my children I did survive and raise my three wonderful sons and made a good life for myself.

It was a feeling of yes I did “release you”-  it was definitely a good thing to do.  No more tears just gratitude.  Amazing what time can do for a breaking heart.

Current Mood: Surprised

Today was picture day at the school where they take an individual shot and a class picture with the teacher.  I was asked to participate as the children requested me to be in their photo.  This will be my fifth class picture and at this point, I am hoping to fill up my wall. 

I arrived at 11 and walked to the media center where the photos would be taken.  All of the classes were on a time slot and so I waited a bit and then in marched 10 little gals that were so pretty in their dresses and bows and braids.  Their smiles and eyes were beaming. 

The photographer had them pose in the most adorable fashion and then off to the stage to line up for the class picture.  My 9 boys were adorable with their hair combed and sporting some neat logo shirts.  They smiled for the photographer and then off to the stage.  We had three rows of boys and girls, small to tall with myself on one end and the teacher on the other end.  We mouthed “cookie” and some other words to give us the best expressions and smiles.  Click, click and it was done.  Another year and I am looking forward to the next year maybe with third grade students.  I have first and second and this years will be kindergarden.  My wall will be smiling with happy faces and wonderful memories.

Current Mood: Esctatic & Happy

Taking a survey. Which do you prefer on Valentines Day? What makes you feel special? Do you like a funny card or mushy?

Current Mood: Playful

My little ones are excited as they paste red and pink hearts on little white bags that they will be filling with heart shaped candies.  As they carefully work I can see how careful they are being and asking each other- do you have a valentine?  (I like so and so, don’t tell him – it’s a secret).   It is remarkable that at this young age love” is in the air” as we teach them to be even kinder to each other on special occasions like Valentines Day.  We are helping them make little cards to give to each other.  Cupcakes will be served at our little party after lunch on Thursday.  Who knows someone may ask me to be their Valentine?