Happy Halloween

Halloween's not till tomorrow - but already we've had so much fun - and too much candy!!

Next time you throw away a plastic bottle....

Next time you throw away a plastic bottle - pause for a moment and consider if there is something better that can be done with it.....

Why I Blog on Ordinary Days

A few days ago after my sister discovered my blog - she asked me why I was blogging. She said she "got" how just the act of writing about my life and my experiences helped me to process them but she was curious as to why I wanted to do it publicly. Part of it is the commitment factor. Even though I am a writer, I have never been able to consistently keep a journal. And yet when I look back at all the photo books I have created - particulalrly the ones I have done since Liam was born - I see how much they provide me with a link to thoughts and feelings that would otherwise be forgotten. Writing does that even better - and blogging is like publishing, which I know how to do and know I will stick with. So that is one reason why I blog.

The other is just that, as I get older, I long for the sense of community that comes from being with people that see the world the way I do and all the joy that comes from building friendships and helping and supporting others through everything that life throws at us. In the course of my day I come across a lot of things that make me laugh, make me cry, make me angry, make me wistful..... and my blog is my way of sharing them in the hope that they bring joy to someone else, or help them cope with something they are finding challenging.

One of my dear friends is a lady I get to see all too little as she lives in New Hampshire and we are both busy working moms so there is never as much time to chat as we would like. But she touches my heart each time we speak - or even email. This week she sent me this. The Gift of Ordinary Days needs no introduction. I loved it. I hope you do too.

Floating Football

Take a couple of minutes out of your day to watch this youtube video - click on the picture below. It's guaranteed to make you smile and maybe even wipe a tear from the corner of your eye. Perfect antidote to the usual breakfast serving of fear, disgust and depression that comes our way by virtue of the morning news. My friend Jill - who is an inspiration in and of herself - first posted it to her facebook page. Her daughter's first grade teacher had showed it to them in class. We are blessed to have so many wonderful, enthusiastic, creative people who have dedicated themselves to educating our children.

Yet another reason to feel good about your day. Enjoy!