Friday, August 31, 2012

Pets:

*****
When I came home today, this cat, who thinks she can stop by whenever she wishes,
was visiting. She stayed asleep even after I shut my car off. I watched her  for awhile
until she spotted me. When I opened the car door she
flew off the step and into the neighbors yard.

I guess what comes to mind is how important it is for a child to have a pet.
It's another step in respecting life. There are more opportunities to teach
children with a pet in the house. They name and claim them.
They talk to them and tell them what's going on. This child has a 'friend.'
Parents reiterate things like;
"Be nice!"
"How would you like someone to do that to  you?"
"Feed your cat now."
"Play with the cat."
"Don't bother her right now."
"Be gentle."

Children copy what they see.
If you wonder how the day is going...check out and see how you've treated the dog!"
Think about it.


Thursday, August 30, 2012

Freedom:

*****


I heard yesterday that the usual Holiday demand is "I want it!"
but the most popular question for me is, "What do you do all day?"
People who hold a full time job can't exactly fathom a complete life being your own boss.
I can get up when I want, eat what I want, go where I want, do what I want...I
would say for most of us who have worked all our life it's well earned.

I think the most difficult part is not having a scheduled day.
"Lunch time? Oh gosh, it's already 3 pm."
"Oops, we missed the matinee so guess we'll have to catch the late movie."
Did you know that the more choices you have...the greater the burden?
Freedom is not really doing what you want to do but it's when YOU are being open to God!
And now it's time to close out and get myself to the afternoon Mass and Eucharist.
I'm free at last.


Wednesday, August 29, 2012

Mentoring Spoof:

*****

 I'm heading to my car in the parking lot at my favorite Starbucks today
when I am approached by a young clean cut man.
 He gives me a sales pitch about removing the little scratches here and there on my car.
It would only cost $50...and if I go to a body shop it will be very expensive for me.
He says he wants to give me a good deal and get experience.
He will be trained by his  father and uncle-
 the two men in the white truck who pull up behind me- waiting for my answer.
When I hesitate and sip on my capachino, they both get out.

All four of us are now touching my car and circling like buzzards.
They admire the dark blue color but can make it more beautiful without scratches.
They have a few teeth missing, speak in broken English and have olive skin.
Finally, I say okay. They go to the back of their truck, mumble,
 put something clear on a cloth like an oil(who knows what?)
and rub it on the tiny scratches made by a raccoon on the door handles.
It takes five minutes to complete the whole job.
 The older guys get back into the truck and drives off while the boy waits for the money.
He asks me if I can give him a tip for the work! I say emphatically, "NO!"

I ask if he has a card or if he lives here. He says they live in San Jose but
 moving  here because the weather is so nice.
I didn't tell him that everyone isn't as gullible as I am, but I certainly thought it.

When I pay I stand right next to him like I am going to tell a secret and say,
"Okay, why did you pick me?"
He says, "It's your smile... your beautiful smile, mum."
 I roll my eyes and shake my head, smiling. He joins me with a smile and says, "Thank you so much."

I won't forget their faces. Sorry I didn't take pictures or shoot a video.
Hope I never see them on America's most wanted!
Yes, I knew I was getting screwed and no I'm not going to do it again.
It was just one of those days... you know what I mean?

(Big Smile)

Tuesday, August 28, 2012

Pepperoni Pizza:

*****

There is something about the power of suggestions-
Do you ever get those days where nothing will satisfy you except a pizza?
Crunchy, cheesy, hot, pepperoni pizza.
Go for it!

It used to be great sometimes for breakfast in college!
Usually you would find it in the smoker- (yes, I said smoker-
that is the room at the end of the hall where you went to smoke.) The
reason you didn't do it in your room was because of fires so the
nurses in my dorm  headed down to the end of the hall and smoked
cigarettes and did homework, gathered around the piano and acted out which meant trying to
rip a phone book in two, lifting someone in the air with two fingers, etc.
You might remember some of those goofy things.

There are kids who don't get to lead these relatively "normal" lives because they
have been so traumatized. Let's pray for their healing...it wasn't their fault no matter what.
Let's pray for their self esteem damaged by an adult they trusted. And let's pray
for an abundance of good graces for them from God, who loves every ounce of them.

Monday, August 27, 2012

Dahlias:


     How to brighten a day:

I went to Soquel High School to see the Monterey Bay Dahlia Show. Here is a sample of a very few of the flowers. They are beautiful. I also bought a bouquet for my neighbor. There are so many varieties of this flower. It happened to be one of my mother's favorites. They also last a long time.It's amazing to see flowers the size of hubcaps! It was difficult picking a favorite and I would not have wanted to be a judge.

Antique shops are also fun to visit if you are in the mood to
remember toys you or your children had or dishes your mom used for special occasions, tools in the garage or art work.

And of course, a pray brings one back to the center and is very effective in brightening the day...usually first on my list.




Sunday, August 26, 2012

A Welcome Path:

*****


"When  you are happy, you enjoy the music
but when you are sad, you understand the lyrics.
"

                                             anonymous

Saturday, August 25, 2012

Jaycee Dugard:

*****

Jaycee Dugard was interviewed tonight on television. What an amazing survivor.
A message  for us here  is her deep love for her daughters who were conceived in rape.
The children remind Jaycee of herself and her own mom and not the perpetrator  father.
I say this because of the arguments regarding abortions for everyone molested.
Clearly children should NOT suffer because of the sins of their father.

The reunion was most touching of Jaycee with her own mother
who NEVER lost hope in finding Jaycee.
Huge thanks to the two female college campus police  who were
extremely uncomfortable, had a "feeling " about him and followed up on the computer.
They gave a VOICE to the voiceless.
God bless you both.

Friday, August 24, 2012

What Comes to Mind:

*****
Just wondering what you think when you find money on the ground.

Do you pick it up?
Does it mean something to you?
Do you leave it there for someone else who might need it?
Do you wonder who dropped it or the date on the coin?
Your turn...
Share what you do

ps. This penny is in my pocket!

Thursday, August 23, 2012

The Power of the Sunflower:

*****
Thursday, August 23, 2012

This amazing sunflower stands in the yard of my
Medical Massage Therapist.
It's tall, simple and beautiful.
I call it a happy flower and the seeds are delicious.

What's the message?

Stand up tall, tuck in you belly button.
Keep life simple and uncomplicated.
Smile so no matter what, you are beautiful.

There are lessons for life everywhere if we look for them.

Tuesday, August 21, 2012

Pick a Pair Writing Prompt:

*****
If you walked in these shoes...What would you wear? 
Where would you go?
Why would you be there? 
Who would you see?
When would this event take place?

This could be a great story...
get writing!

Did you know that people who are traumatized remember details that are unrelated?
Use all of your senses in the story...sight, smell, sound, taste, and touch.

Monday, August 20, 2012

Back to School:



O Mary, conceived without sin pray for us who have recourse to thee.
                                                                          Original art by Donald Ruessler



        Warmest thoughts and prayers go out to all children returning to school.
 The last thing my mom used to say to me when I left the house was, "watch for cars!
 I always kissed my mom when I left for school...usually in a hurry and mad about my hair.
 There are some things that help early in the morning like (1) Do your homework (2) put your clothes out the
 night before, (3) gather your books or whatever you plan to take with you and put it all                           where you can find them, (4) Get money, notes or papers signed by your parents the night before.
(5) There are back packs with emergency pulls that sound like a siren. (6) Use appropriately and not as a prank for safety's sake.(7) Make your school proud.

      It takes awhile to get a routine but that routine will save hours of grief and embarrassment.

Sunday, August 19, 2012

Don't Be So Hard on Yourself:

*****

Even a clock that has stopped... is right twice a day!

Saturday, August 18, 2012

Back to School:

*****

As children, we were always told by our parents to "behave ourselves1"
They did not want to hear from someone that we had done something wrong.
They also said it was a reflection on them if we acted wild.

What do parents say to their children today?
Are they given instructions about how to protect themselves?
Do they know the consequences of bullying?

Parents have such a huge job. It's a good idea to ask for help when needed.
You children will thank you some day.

Watch out for the school buses loading and unloading.
Thank you.

Friday, August 17, 2012

Back to School Writing Prompt:

*****

In grade school we were all lined up in front of the blackboard
for a spelling bee. The boy next to me had a nice sharpened pencil in his hand.
When the teacher told us to sit down he abruptly turned and started to walk
while I was still facing forward and he stuck the pencil into my arm.
Yes, stuck it. Punctured the skin. He backed up and there it was
still in my arm. I remember the trauma but surprisingly, for some reason...
maybe forgiveness...I cannot remember who did it! :0)
                                                                               
                                                             

Thursday, August 16, 2012

Back to Business:

*****

Now the transformer has been replaced in my yard  and it's back to business as usual.
I should say "whatever that means!"  For me that means I can sleep longer if I chose to do so,
I don't have to look out the window and for some reason make sure everyone in my yard is safe, and
I can do whatever and go wherever I need to go without asking to get out of my driveway.

It is funny how we are like babies in that way. When we know
our boundaries and have a routine...we feel safe.

How do we keep our children safe. When it comes to molesters we have to be
on our toes. We have to watch for the signs and talk to our children openly. Let the child
know that no one can hurt their mom or dad. Be informed.
This is 2012. We are no longer back in the dark ages about sexual abuse.
There are places to go now and phone numbers to call.
Make use of this information. ...even if it happened years ago.

Thank you.

Wednesday, August 15, 2012

Feast of the Assumption:

*****

Mary was assumed into Heaven to be with her Son, Jesus,
and has returned to us on several occasions with messages.
How blessed are those who believe.
   

Tuesday, August 14, 2012

Notices:

*****

That yellow line on the street is for the cart shopper-
this is not mean for the car to stop but the CART to stop here!
Just wondering if you have seen this sign before.

What other SIGNS are you missing???
You know what I mean.
Pay attention.

Monday, August 13, 2012

Speak Up:

*****

Today I was leaving the parking lot at the grocery store  when a woman
threw her lit cigarette butt out the window of her van.
She pulled into a parking space and I parked behind her and waved her over to my car.

First, I smiled, identified myself as the daughter of a fire chief and said,
  "Please do NOT throw your lit cigarette butts out the car window.
You know how bad those fires are and how fast they spread."
She immediately apologized and said, "Oh, you are
so right. I'm sorry. I'll go pick it up!"
  But, she didn't even know where she had tossed it and looked in the wrong place
until I pointed at the intersection. Then she ran out and got it.

Give VOICE for the prevention of  senseless acts.
Won't you please help? Look around. Step up and take a stand
for a cause that will benefit all of us.

Thank You.

http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/3129533

Sunday, August 12, 2012

Declutter and Renewal:

Sunday, August 12, 2012
     The power is off all day today while a transformer is replaced in the park. It happens to be in my backyard. The new one is already in place and the power will be switched over today.
     I also have a new fence as of yesterday. So more of the declutter and renewal continues in my life.
Good time to remember all those who made it in life without electricity and gas...they paved the way for
the wonderful things we have today.
    I have the pictures on my phone for the above events and will post them later. I am signing off-
Have a wonderful day.

Saturday, August 11, 2012

An Invitation to St.Josephs:

*****

I love the picture on my first Communion Certificate.
This is a public invitation for you to join us for Mass at St. Joseph's in Capitola.
We now have Mass every day of the week at 5 PM
 and a new priest, Fr. Wayne Dawson.
He has only been here a couple of weeks and
there were as many as 80 people at a daily Mass!

If it has been awhile or  maybe you quit years ago,
you might consider coming out of curiosity
and even sit in the back row and see if it is what you have been looking for.
Maybe you have considered becoming a Catholic
and if you haven't done anything yet,
We would love to have you.
 You are more than welcome...and bring a friend.

We also have Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.
 Fr. Wayne spends one hour a day there.
This is an invitation to "make a visit."

 Get a bulletin or look on line at
WWW.stjoscap.org  for any other information.


Friday, August 10, 2012

Advice for Young Love:

*****

This bears repeating...

Don't let a kiss fool you and
Don't let a fool kiss you!

Thursday, August 9, 2012

Thanks to You a Goal Has Been Met:

*****

 "Under My Roof" first came out
as an e-book memoir. (Now available in softcover.)  with the proceeds from this
book going to the Survivor's Healing Center to support programs.

I am pleased to announce that a goal has been met.
The Survivor's Healing Center will be  launching a group for the parents
of  survivors of child sexual abuse. This is for an unoffender.
There are TWO spots left and you are invited to attend.
Call to register 831- 423-7601.

They are located on Walnut Street and waiting for your call.
The group starts in September.
If you know anyone who might be interested please pass this on.
If they are not on FB then copy and paste and email to them.

How can you continue to help?
Order now
http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/3129533


Wednesday, August 8, 2012

Detours:

***
 I was sleepy until a few skunks walked down the street
waving their tails behind them.
 And now... I'm wide awake again.

I can't go to bed without thinking of all my blessings.
Today was beautiful, one of those "picnic" like days where you
eat watermelon and corn on the cob and cherry pie.
ummmmm!

I am glad the gas leak was discovered on Soquel .
The police evacuated people and set up the detour.
I think being calm comes with aging.  I still made my eye
appointment and was happily seen.

The skunk smell has dissipated
 the computer hum is hypnotizing and I have a big day tomorrow.
I'm so glad you took the time to read my blog. God bless you.
Now I'm finished.
http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/3129533
proceeds support programs 

Tuesday, August 7, 2012

Location Location:

*****
I took this picture in an antique shop because I sat in this chair somewhere before.
But, where?
Now, I have a pretty good memory of things like that but I'm stuck here.
I sat down, closed my eyes. Nothing happened. I tried so hard to remember my experience.

When  I put this pix out on Facebook, I heard three times that it was a barbershop type chair.
I had been in a barber shop only once when my dad took me to his barber, Eeeky.
Afterwards...
I looked like the dutch boy on the side of the paint can.
And I do not remember having to wait in a chair. I was first in line.

What pops up for me is the movie theater box seats.
Another place is the waiting room at the dentist office.
Anyway, if someone from my hometown remembers where they might have seen them...
Please tell me and ease this stretched mind.
Thank you.

Sunday, August 5, 2012

Visual Writing Prompt:

                                                                        *****

Up until yesterday I used the term, 
"I've been to hell and back, but from now on...
"I have stood at the foot of the Cross!"
"When the student is ready...the teacher appears."

Saturday, August 4, 2012

Being Tactful:

***
"Tact is the knack of making a point without making an enemy."

          _ Isaac Newton


I find there is always something to work on...
perhaps smiling more, slower speech, listening better,
giving attention where it's needed or perhaps increase spiritual habits of prayer.
As long as I can focus, I can make a change.
But...what about the survivor?
 Often they will be the one who with difficulty focusing.
 Be compassionate.
Be gentle.
Be tactful!

                     What have you found to be helpful in healing? Please share with others.

                                      http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/3129533



Friday, August 3, 2012

Memories:

*****
I don't know the make and model of this car outside of Starbucks,
 but I know I immediately had a memory like it was yesterday,
and said," ummmm, a push up from McCurdy's!"
I smiled all the way to my car carrying coffee.

When I was a child, McCurdy's restaurant had a little freezer up by the cashier
with a glass slider door filled with orange creamy push ups  (a fat tube of sherbet on a stick)
the same color as this car. 

Memories pop out of no where and everywhere.
Imagine the thoughts that stop an abused child or an adult survivor in his/her tracks.
 Have you seen someone stare off in space or stop doing something?
My memory was over 50 years old...see they don't go away.
There are good memories and there are bad ones.
If the survivor gets the appropriate help from  a professional those
fearful moments may some day change to more good memories and fewer flashes of the bad stuff.

Order today: "Under My Roof ~ A Mother's Story of the Heinous Crime of Incest"
http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/3129533
Proceeds donated to support programs. 


Thursday, August 2, 2012

Birthday Wishes:

*****
Birthdays at my house were the most special of celebrations!
You could request your meal and the cake of your choice.
No one really planned anything because the birthday person was like "boss for the day."

Once a group of friends came to my party and we all went to the movie,
 "20,000 Leagues under the Sea."
I remember it seemed way too long because I had to wait to open my presents.

I wish the very best to my friends having a birthday. It is a special day...
so happy you all were born.
When my daughter celebrated her birthday in June and I called to wish her the best...
she said, "Thank you for having me!"
I said, "why are you saying that...what do you mean?"
She said, "I'm glad you didn't have an abortion."
"It was never an option," I said. "You were planned."

I  pray for respect for life at all ages and stages.
Lord, hear my prayer.


                                                           
                                                 

Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Summer Vacations:

*****
Capitola by the Sea, California

It's the tourist season in our villages. Plenty of good weather,
great music, excellent food, clean air, home town ambiance, and magic.
No wonder it's crowded because even when you live here it feels like
a vacation or 'gift" every single day.

This is where I arrived 27 years ago for a "do-over" in life!
And that was only the first of the miracles.

http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/3129533
proceeds benefit survivors.