tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84252689170464282222024-03-05T09:36:47.870-08:00Living Life AgainWelcome to my recovery. Or something like it. I am a grateful member of Al-anon, raising my child alone. This is my life!Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger204125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8425268917046428222.post-47323761933693029992009-12-31T13:14:00.001-08:002009-12-31T13:14:45.409-08:00My last post<meta content="text/html; charset=utf-8" http-equiv="Content-Type"></meta><meta content="Word.Document" name="ProgId"></meta><meta content="Microsoft Word 12" name="Generator"></meta><meta content="Microsoft Word 12" name="Originator"></meta><link href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5Ccmparodi%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtmlclip1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml" rel="File-List"></link><link href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5Ccmparodi%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtmlclip1%5C01%5Cclip_themedata.thmx" rel="themeData"></link><link href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5Ccmparodi%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtmlclip1%5C01%5Cclip_colorschememapping.xml" rel="colorSchemeMapping"></link><style>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/181/374764915_c8b6f4f97f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/181/374764915_c8b6f4f97f.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
</div>Today is December 31, 2009. I began this blog on January 1, 2009. 365 days ago I ventured out into blog world to see how it could help me in my recovery. My original title was "Just letting go". It was how I felt, and still do, about being free of the bondage to the alcoholic. Letting go has been, and continues today to be my primary goal, a drive, of my life. I know I cannot survive and live a happy, abundant life by hanging on to the pain, the past.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
How do I feel about 2009?<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
In some ways, it was a successful year. It was the first year in the last 6 years that I actually began to feel truly free of the alcoholic. I saw significant progress in my thought processes and behaviors. The obsession to sober him, or kill him, was relieved. The drive by's ended, the telephone terrorism ceased. I really did find that miracle of detachment. On this basis, I can honestly say it was a grand year.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Of course, this was also the year I lost my beloved Mother. Just thinking of those days in May/June when the end was near and eventually came bring tears to my eyes. I loved, and still love, that woman. I hope so much that she is dancing joyfully in heaven with her mother and sisters, my father and all the dogs she loved so dearly. If I could be as selfless as she, I am grateful that her earth days are over and her eternal days of bliss are just beginning. Through her death, my brothers and sister and I have come together in a small way to maintain contact. We celebrated Christmas together, and though not totally connected, it was a start.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
This year has brought me good professional growth and future growth, and I am so blessed and grateful for these opportunities. It has helped to bring up my self esteem and learn that I have gifts that can benefit people, especially impoverished and challenged people who need a motivator in their corner.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
I lost friends this year, not to death, but to disease. The spiritual disease we addicts suffer from, when they dropped out of Al-Anon or AA, they eventually dropped from my life, or I from theirs. It was a tough challenge for me to let go of people I once loved as their behaviors reverted back to disease.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
This year I began to see the real importance of preparing Jackson, and myself, for his departure to college. To let go of this man, my beloved son, is a monumental task for me. But, I owe it to him to let him live his life as he sees fit. He wants to go away to college, I will support it no matter how my heart will ache to see him go. I want to teach him how to write a check, drive a car, pay bills, comfort himself and be a giver in his community. I know that if I take care of God's precious gift, Jackson, he will learn to take care of himself..........and fly free above all the pain that alcoholism has caused him.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Lastly, to you people. The few that do read my blog regularly, oh how you have made blogging so worthwhile. To have people return here regularly to see what I have to say is the highest compliment to my recovery. You lifted me with your comments when my mother passed, you pat me on the back when I did a good job raising Jackson, you gently suggested when I was off the beam and you have always encouraged me to be better, do more for others, love deeper. Thank you to Steve, Syd, Betty Ann, Prayer Girl, Gabi, Seth and Dee! You are in my heart surrounded by deeply gratitude and eternal thanks for being the special people God so graciously gift me with. Special acknowledgement to the bloggers that I read, but who do not post here: Mary Christine, Andrew, Sarah, Mantramine.....thanks for providing realness, humor, inspiration and honesty. I love connecting to you via your blog and look forward to more in 2010. I hope you all know how much you matter!<o:p></o:p><br />
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This is the last day of this blog, but not blogging all together. I will have my new 2010 blog up soon and will send you all the invitation. I look forward to keeping on with you all….May God bless you today and all the days to come.<o:p></o:p><br />
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Keep coming back, because YOU are so worth it!<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Christina<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8425268917046428222.post-60830023364374192502009-12-30T06:11:00.000-08:002009-12-30T06:11:58.514-08:00Turmoil, perfectionismStill having a difficult time not working this week. Went to 2 meetings yesterday, shared it at one, and still feeling anxiety at not working to get new students this week.<br />
<br />
My boss keeps emailing to find out how my week has gone, ie: did you enroll any new students, EVER THOUGH I am permitted the week off, having met my commitments. I don't think he means anything by it, just trying to shore up his end of year numbers, and I am SURE its all about my inability to say "Hey, no Im not working cus you said we didnt have to, rememberm and I deserve some time off cus I hade a great year, remember?"<br />
<br />
Oh why do we have to be grown ups EVERY day?<br />
<br />
I am probably going to call some kids today to see what I can do for tomorrow, or the weekend, Not the end of the world, it will help me get started for January....<br />
<br />
Im such a wuss. Just goes to show....no matter how many years I recover, I will always have these challenges.....recovery is not cure.<br />
<br />
Other than this, Im having a FABULOUS day here at 9:10am, EST. Of course, I have not even gotten outta bed yet.....<br />
<br />
<br />
thats the next step.<br />
<br />
<br />
Happy December 30th everyone!!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8425268917046428222.post-3015402567863008372009-12-29T07:12:00.000-08:002009-12-29T07:12:03.893-08:00why can't I just enjoy my vacation?I have extra time off since I have a cool boss who gives us the holidays off if we have met our monthly goals for December. I did and so since high school is closed I can enjoy the holidays. Except I cant. A few others are working, adding to their numbers for the month, and my boss called yesterday to see if I had anything scheduled for the week. Kinda like "You can have the time off, but Id really rather you worked"...not sure if thats the way he meant it. Anyhow, its basically my choice at the end of the day, but I guess Im feeling competitive, or sloth f I don;t do what some others are doing. Can ya say that Christina NEEDS A MEETING?<br />
<br />
People pleasing, not feeling *worthy*, whatever....I know its my Al-anonism rearing its ugly head.<br />
<br />
I am going to a meeting at 12pm, then lunch with a friend. I think I will have to learn to be uncomfortable with enjoying what I am entitlted to and have worked hard at gaining!<br />
<br />
Happy Tuesday people!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8425268917046428222.post-87801505909153649872009-12-27T19:39:00.000-08:002009-12-27T19:39:03.015-08:008 Signs of an emotional manipulator<table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="6" cellspacing="0" class="tborder" id="post2470259"><tbody>
<tr valign="top"><td class="alt1" id="td_post_2470259" style="border-right: 1px solid rgb(209, 209, 225);"> <div class="smallfont"><strong>8 Signs of an emotional manipulator</strong> </div><hr size="1" style="background-color: #d1d1e1; color: #d1d1e1;" /> <div id="post_message_2470259">Emotional Manipulation is also “Covert Aggression”. See: “Psychopaths: Wolves in Sheep’s Clothing”. Here is a list adapted from an article by Fiona McColl</div><div id="post_message_2470259"><br />
<b>1</b>. There is no use in trying to be honest with an emotional manipulator. You make a statement and it will be turned around. Example: I am really angry that you forgot my birthday. Response: “It makes me feel sad that you would think I would forget your birthday, I should have told you of the great personal stress I am facing at the moment – but you see I didn’t want to trouble you. You are right I should have put all this pain ( don’t be surprised to see real tears at this point) aside and focused on your birthday. Sorry.” Even as you are hearing the words you get the creeped out sensation that they really do NOT mean they are sorry at all – but since they’ve said the words you’re pretty much left with nothing more to say. Either that or you suddenly find yourself babysitting their angst!! Under all circumstances if you feel this angle is being played – don’t capitulate! Do not care take – do not accept an apology that feels like bs. If it feels like bs – it probably is. Rule number one – if dealing with an emotional blackmailer TRUST your gut. TRUST your senses. Once an emotional manipulator finds a successful manoeuvre – it’s added to their hit list and you’ll be fed a steady diet of this sh**.<br />
<br />
<b>2</b>. An emotional manipulator is the picture of a <b>willing helper</b>. If you ask them to do something they will almost always agree – that is IF they didn’t volunteer to do it first. Then when you say, “OK thanks” – they make a bunch of heavy sighs, or other non verbal signs that let you know they don’t really want to do whatever said thing happens to be. When you tell them it doesn’t seem like they want to do whatever – they will turn it around and try to make it seem like OF COURSE they wanted to and how unreasonable you are. This is a form of crazy making – which is something emotional manipulators are very good at. Rule number two – If an emotional manipulator said YES – make them accountable for it. Do NOT buy into the sighs and subtleties – if they don’t want to do it – make them tell you it up front – or just put on the walk-man headphones and run a bath and leave them to their theater.<br />
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<b>3</b>. <b>Crazy making</b> – saying one thing and later assuring you they did not say it. If you find yourself in a relationship where you figure you should start keeping a log of what’s been said because you are beginning to question your own sanity –You are experiencing emotional manipulation. An emotional manipulator is an expert in turning things around, rationalizing, justifying and explaining things away. They can lie so smoothly that you can sit looking at black and they’ll call it white – and argue so persuasively that you begin to doubt your very senses. Over a period of time this is so insidious and eroding it can literally alter your sense of reality. WARNING: Emotional Manipulation is VERY Dangerous! It is very disconcerting for an emotional manipulator if you begin carrying a pad of paper and a pen and making notations during conversations. Feel free to let them know you just are feeling so “forgetful” these days that you want to record their words for posterity’s sake. The damndest thing about this is that having to do such a thing is a clear example for why you should be seriously thinking about removing yourself from range in the first place. If you’re toting a notebook to safeguard yourself – that ol’ bs meter should be flashing steady by now!<br />
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<b>4. Guilt</b>. Emotional manipulators are excellent guilt mongers. They can make you feel guilty for speaking up or not speaking up, for being emotional or not being emotional enough, for giving and caring, or for not giving and caring enough. Any thing is fair game and open to guilt with an emotional manipulator. Emotional manipulators seldom express their needs or desires openly – they get what they want through emotional manipulation. Guilt is not the only form of this but it is a potent one. Most of us are pretty conditioned to do whatever is necessary to reduce our feelings of guilt. Another powerful emotion that is used is sympathy. An emotional manipulator is a great victim. They inspire a profound sense of needing to support, care for and nurture. Emotional Manipulators seldom fight their own fights or do their own dirty work. The crazy thing is that when you do it for them (which they will never ask directly for), they may just turn around and say they certainly didn’t want or expect you to do anything! Try to make a point of not fighting other people’s battles, or doing their dirty work for them. A great line is “I have every confidence in your ability to work this out on your own” – check out the response and note the bs meter once again.<br />
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<b>5. Emotional manipulators fight dirty</b>. They don’t deal with things directly. They will talk around behind your back and eventually put others in the position of telling you what they would not say themselves. They are passive aggressive, meaning they find subtle ways of letting you know they are not happy little campers. They’ll tell you what they think you want to hear and then do a bunch of jerk off sh** to undermine it. Example: “Of course I want you to go back to school honey and you know I’ll support you.” Then exam night you are sitting at the table and poker buddies show up, the kids are crying the TV. blasting and the dog needs walking – all the while “Sweetie” is sitting on their donkey looking at you blankly. Dare you call them on such behaviour you are likely to hear, “well you can’t expect life to just stop because you have an exam can you honey?” Cry, scream or choke ‘em – only the last will have any long-term benefits and it’ll probably wind your butt in jail.<br />
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<b>6.</b> If you have a headache an emotional manipulator will have a brain tumour! No matter what your situation is the emotional manipulator has probably been there or is there now – but only ten times worse. It’s hard after a period of time to feel emotionally connected to an emotional manipulator because they have a way of de-railing conversations and putting the spotlight back on themselves. If you call them on this behavior they will likely become deeply wounded or very petulant and call you selfish – or claim that it is you who are always in the spotlight. The thing is that even though you know this is not the case you are left with the impossible task of proving it. Don’t bother – TRUST your gut and walk away!<br />
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<b>7.</b> Emotional manipulators somehow have the ability to impact the emotional climate of those around them. When an emotional manipulator is sad or angry the very room thrums with it – it brings a deep instinctual response to find someway to equalize the emotional climate and the quickest route is by making the emotional manipulator feel better – fixing whatever is broken for them. Stick with this type of loser for too long and you will be so enmeshed and co-dependent you will forget you even have needs – let alone that you have just as much right to have your needs met.<br />
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<b>8</b>. Emotional manipulators have no sense of accountability. They take no responsibility for themselves or their behavior – it is always about what everyone else has “done to them”. One of the easiest ways to spot an emotional manipulator is that they often attempt to establish intimacy through the early sharing of deeply personal information that is generally of the “hook-you-in-and-make-you-sorry-for-me” variety. Initially you may perceive this type of person as very sensitive, emotionally open and maybe a little vulnerable. Believe me when I say that an emotional manipulator is about as vulnerable as a rabid pit bull, and there will always be a problem or a crisis to overcome. </div></td></tr>
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</tbody></table>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8425268917046428222.post-24905631707177061702009-12-27T17:36:00.000-08:002009-12-27T17:36:40.082-08:00Benedryl and Gratitude<meta content="text/html; charset=utf-8" http-equiv="Content-Type"></meta><meta content="Word.Document" name="ProgId"></meta><meta content="Microsoft Word 12" name="Generator"></meta><meta content="Microsoft Word 12" name="Originator"></meta><link href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5Ccmparodi%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtmlclip1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml" rel="File-List"></link><link href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5Ccmparodi%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtmlclip1%5C01%5Cclip_themedata.thmx" rel="themeData"></link><link href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5Ccmparodi%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtmlclip1%5C01%5Cclip_colorschememapping.xml" rel="colorSchemeMapping"></link><style>
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</style> Holiday hangover struck again today. My incredible tenacious allergies have struck yet again, a near daily occurrence it seems. In bed most of the day due to Benedryl-itis.<o:p></o:p><br />
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Got out of the tomb by 5pm, to begin a massive vacation clean up of the house. I have learned to do small bits a time. Like recovery, I live sometimes an hour at a time, in order to make life manageable. Same think with cleaning a neglected house. It felt good to be busy and accomplishing something.<o:p></o:p><br />
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last night an AA ling timer friend came by to visit us. I'll call him CJ. He is a handsome, funny as all hell, very sober, wise AA lifer. We talk almost every day. It’s a good friendship, and I enjoy his humor, wisdom and general wise cracking self. He brought us gifts, even though we had said we wouldn’t do gifts. Ha! Can’t trust those alkies, can I? He gave me a sweet spiritual recovery book and some chocolates, and gave jr a neat-o gift card to Subway! Free food! Always a sweet treat.<o:p></o:p><br />
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I think about how my life isn’t exactly the way I would like it to be, but it sure as hell isn’t the hell it once was. I have friends, I have God and I have a loving son who I adore.<o:p></o:p><br />
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Putting my focus on the things I HAVE and not the things I DONT have, makes me grateful and happy.<o:p></o:p><br />
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Just for today, I am BOTH!<o:p></o:p><br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8425268917046428222.post-70097907060137031382009-12-26T17:18:00.000-08:002009-12-26T17:18:49.582-08:00OK you Canadians.....just who are you?I have had some visitors from the great North....Canada. British Columbia and Quebec. I am curious to know who you are, how did you find my blog...name, rank, serial number.<br />
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I have opened up for anonymous comments, with no restrictions, so I would love to hear about you. No need to give specifics, and you may remain anonymous. I just like to get to know any reader who is kind enough to keep coming back.<br />
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And that means all readers, not just the Candians......eh!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8425268917046428222.post-41854349319635924912009-12-26T09:28:00.000-08:002009-12-26T09:28:11.592-08:00Can't get outta bedChristmas is done and so am I. I am sooooo tired, I just cannot get outta bed. Up at 8am, no coffee cus Im out, and whew! Back to sleep at 10am. Still in my night gown. Its 12:17pm. Im on vacation, so Im telling myself its ok to indulge.<br />
<br />
Jr. and I went to my brothers house last night, where I actually had a good time telling stories and talking to my brothers, wives, and kids. I surprised myself. I thought it would be more of a chore. Jackson was stressed because he felt he really didnt know people there. His 4 uncles, and many cousins, yet it is true, he doesnt really know them. We rarely see them, despite living in the same city. Thats just the way it is. Jackson said he felt ok as long as I was around him, so we stayed together. We were actually the last to leave. It was a nice time.<br />
<br />
I need to come up with a new title for my new blog I will be starting on January 1st. Something that describes me, what I am about, or where I'm heading. Something positive, of course. IF anyone has any suggestions, please comment.<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>*******OH YEAH, ABOUT YOUR COMMENTS !!************</b><br />
<br />
I dont always get to reply to comments since I dont know if anyone raelly comes back to read them, but I do want you all to know how much I appreciate them.<br />
<br />
<div style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Seth, Steve, Syd, Gabi, Prayer Girl, Betty Ann</b></span><br />
</div><br />
You guys are really so special, and I thank you for your continued support through out my first year of blogging!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8425268917046428222.post-18622966362129983082009-12-25T09:02:00.000-08:002009-12-25T09:02:27.891-08:00Stay in the moment today and Merry Christmas!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.buffyholt.com/blog/wp-content/MerryChristmas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="http://www.buffyholt.com/blog/wp-content/MerryChristmas.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8425268917046428222.post-90419867971856602662009-12-24T12:48:00.001-08:002009-12-24T12:48:59.687-08:00Puppy dog Christmas<object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Ugr99-p696w&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Ugr99-p696w&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8425268917046428222.post-16043757064996332852009-12-24T07:12:00.000-08:002009-12-24T07:12:54.998-08:00Message to my readers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.messages.oriza.net/rp-byoriza-christmas81210-4.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.messages.oriza.net/rp-byoriza-christmas81210-4.gif" width="290" /></a><br />
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8425268917046428222.post-80332395328295681322009-12-23T06:33:00.000-08:002009-12-23T06:35:43.619-08:00This blog is coming to an end, but.....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.paraorkut.com/img/pics/images/c/christmas_snoopy-11420.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://images.paraorkut.com/img/pics/images/c/christmas_snoopy-11420.jpg" width="223" /></a><br />
</div>I began this blog on January 1, 2009. I just felt like writing about my life, struggles, most importantly, recovery. I just wanted to be me, whoever I am.<br />
<br />
Its been a difficult year...the loss of my beloved mother, many health issues that are still challenging me. It has also been a liberating year in my recovery. I feel stronger than ever in my faith in God, in moving beyond the alcoholic and finding a bright future ahead. My dearest Jackson will be heading off to college next summer, and if God wills it, I will be relocating out of Florida. Who knows what lies ahead?<br />
<br />
Why is this blog coming to an end? Because I have made mistakes that I need to rectify. I allowed the alcoholic to trounce here and read my blog. I never should have done that, I want a life away from him, completely. Since I cannot trust him to refrain from reading here, I will leave.<br />
<br />
But I will start again :)<br />
<br />
I love blogging, I love the dear people that choose to read here, share their comments with me. I find it very therapeutic and will just start over! Simple as that.<br />
<br />
So, my last *day* will be December 31st. Hopefully I will have something beneficial to say.When I have created a new blog, I will invite my current followers to come join me in my new home. Because as they say in spainish "Mi casa, es SU casa".<br />
<br />
have a great Wednesday everyone!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8425268917046428222.post-25859871826602695982009-12-22T13:30:00.000-08:002009-12-22T13:30:12.596-08:00The adventures of Tuba Christmas 2009Ok here it is,,,,,,<o:p></o:p><br />
Friday, we were supposed to leave after work. Horrendous downpour of the Eastern US snow storm made that impossible. We left Sat at 6am. Yuck. Tired as hell, stressed out about the 4 hr drive to Winter Park, needing to be there by 10:30am.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Take off...and the coolant light goes on. FIRST set back....go to gas station, pour coolant in (just happened to have some for emergencies) and after pouring about 2 cups, realized we had poured it into the OIL tank. $#(#@#&($#&!!!! F bombs dropped everywhere, Jr and I stuffing paper towels in the oil tank to absorb the mess. What to do now? Drive on....<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
We hit the turnpike. Tired, cranky but determined. I kept thinking that this is what love is....going very far outta my way for this incredible kid that I love.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
We arrive in Winter Park 15 minutes early, drive to the park where the concert takes place. Having been there before, we knew just where to go. We pull up. NO ONE IS THERE. No tuba registration table, no chairs for the stage, not a tuba in sight. I cannot tell you how f***** pissed I was. I look up the tuba Christmas website to confirm we are in the right place on the right day. Indeed I confirmed...we were NOT.<o:p></o:p><br />
The Winter Park tuba xmas event was last Saturday, 12-12. Not THIS Saturday 12-19. I HAD THE DATE WRONG.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
$#(&$#(&#@^#@%#*%@&*#%@*&#%@*&#%@*&#%*&@#%@*#%!!!!!!!!!!!!!<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
After dropping enough F bombs to kill a small army, I regroup and remember that there was another TC event in central Fla and let’s see if THAT one is today. And, it was. Zephyrhills, FL, just 80 MORE MILES to the west. And it was set for 7pm that night. Plenty of time.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
So, off we go to Zephyrhills Fl.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Stop at Denny's to get food, which my body and my attitude definitely needed.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Landing in the small, tiny old country town of Zephyrhills, we find a very nice Microtel hotel and chill out. Couldn’t sleep due to all the stress I guess, but rest was ok. Took Jackson to the small church where the rehearsal was to take place, and see several older and younger tubists getting all warmed up. You have to know the tuba world. They are few, but mighty folk, brought together by their love of this large brass blower.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
The concert was held in the town square. Literally, a pretty white gazebo located in downtown (think quaint, small new England town shops, twinkle lights, everyone knows everyone atmosphere). It was cold and crisp evening, and the musicians were 20 strong. A rather small turn out for a rather small town. Jackson was acknowledged for being the member who came the furthest away to participate, while another player was acknowledged for purposely missing his flight back home to Baltimore just so he could stay and play with the boys. (Alas, no female players this time). <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
They played wonderful songs, spread the Christmas spirit and made us all smile. I took some video and will try to post up here once Jackson edits it. It was a wonderful way to spend an evening in a quiet, old town in North Fla.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
The next day, we dropped the car at Tires plus to get the oil changed. Ha, you know, remove the coolant and all that, had breakfast and headed over to the OTHER side of the state to visit Kennedy Space Center. I had not been since I was a child and Jackson loves space and engineering, So as we head out of beautiful Zephyrhills, I got pulled over by a sheriff. Nice guy he was, just simply told me to slow down. Was a cool dude, took 5 seconds with me and I felt very lucky to have gotten off. Unfortunately, that gratitude and fear stayed with me temporarily, because on Monday as we were driving home from KSC on I-95, I got pulled over again. This time, no such luck and got a ticket. Well, actually 2....didn’t have my insurance card. That can easily be remedied by sending in my proof on insurance. The other, I will pay or hire The Ticket Clinic. Whatever, it’s the price I pay for my choice to speed. After a few F bombs, I let it go, as Jackson was really cool in helping me to focus on the positive, instead of the negative. Said it could’ve been worse, we could’ve gotten into an accident, but we were safe, had a nice holiday trip and got to see parts of Florida that we had never seen. I love that he knows how to sponsor his Mommy! What a gift he is to me.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
So, I’m home, I’m tired, my legs hurt from all the walking at KSC, but I have a wonderful son and the holidays don’t hurt this year and I am happy!<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Just for today....I have an abundance of love in my life......I hope you do too....Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8425268917046428222.post-55759161158955675562009-12-21T17:55:00.000-08:002009-12-21T17:55:16.451-08:00Oh what a tripJust back from Tuba Christmas. What a friggin adventure! Too tired to blog it now, tomorrow will have to do.<br />
It was glorious to see my son play tuba with a lot of other great tubists and he was acknowledge for the only one to drive such a long distance to participate. They dont know the half of it....as we made a slight driving mishap. (or two).<br />
<br />
Anyhow, we're back, Im exhuasted. Hope ya'll are keeping on....more tomorrow. Peace.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8425268917046428222.post-4561614193310581812009-12-17T18:53:00.000-08:002009-12-17T18:53:10.515-08:00Hi Ho, Ho Hi, its off to Tuba Chrismas we go<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhiA8DwYuzT8pGpMkM1I8JoIBbhs7JH5BfWvEpCBrTgkGLYxwP_IYY3d_Frx0Cc5GoEJJ9-4G0KVwq7oPW5BIKr5EvlCJHUjFSUIgwpDUVen1XvYmZ1wThs4EHCY-I92N7WiZ590l8F2KZ/s1600-r/Tuba_Santa_Hat_-_no_background_prot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhiA8DwYuzT8pGpMkM1I8JoIBbhs7JH5BfWvEpCBrTgkGLYxwP_IYY3d_Frx0Cc5GoEJJ9-4G0KVwq7oPW5BIKr5EvlCJHUjFSUIgwpDUVen1XvYmZ1wThs4EHCY-I92N7WiZ590l8F2KZ/s320-r/Tuba_Santa_Hat_-_no_background_prot.jpg" /></a><br />
</div>Tomorrow we head to Tuba Christmas. Jackson will perform in an All-Tuba instrument outdoor Christmas concert. Its held in a beautiful park reminnescent of NYC's central park, and btw, happens to be named "Central Park". ;-)<br />
<br />
The first year we went, I sat on the lovely green lawn watching Jackson play, and cried. Angry that his father chose to drink instead of watch his son play in a such a memorial event. Sad for all he was missing in this wonderful childs life. So melancholy at how Alcoholism had devestated our lives.<br />
<br />
This year, I could care less. I have no more sadness, no more anger (Just for today). Im in full acceptance of what has occured and I CHOOSE to be happy. B HAPPIE! That is my theme.<br />
<br />
Lief is all about choices. I chose to live in gratitude today, being happy over being right.<br />
<br />
You have never heard a more beautiful Christmas song til you hear it on 100 tuba's.<br />
<br />
Happy Tuba to you all! :)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8425268917046428222.post-14303362787163959742009-12-15T04:26:00.001-08:002009-12-15T04:26:43.865-08:00Change Your ThinkingIt will take just 37 seconds to read this and change your thinking.<br />
<br />
<br />
Two men, both seriously ill, occupied the same hospital room. <br />
<br />
One man was allowed to sit up in his bed for an hour each afternoon to help drain the fluid from his lungs.<br />
<br />
His bed was next to the room's only window. <br />
<br />
The other man had to spend all his time flat on his back. <br />
The men talked for hours on end. <br />
<br />
They spoke of their wives and families, their homes, their jobs, their involvement in the military service, where they had been on vacation..<br />
<br />
Every afternoon, when the man in the bed by the window could sit up, he would pass the time by describing to his roommate all the things he could see outside the window.<br />
<br />
The man in the other bed began to live for those one hour periods where his world would be broadened and enlivened by all the activity and color of the world outside.<br />
<br />
The window overlooked a park with a lovely lake. <br />
<br />
Ducks and swans played on the water while children sailed their model boats. Young lovers walked arm in arm amidst flowers of every color and a fine view of the city skyline could be seen in the distance.<br />
<br />
As the man by the window described all this in exquisite details, the man on the other side of the room would close his eyes and imagine this picturesque scene. <br />
<br />
One warm afternoon, the man by the window described a parade passing by.<br />
<br />
Although the other man could not hear the band - he could see it in his mind's eye as the gentleman by the window portrayed it with descriptive words.<br />
<br />
Days, weeks and months passed. <br />
<br />
<br />
One morning, the day nurse arrived to bring water for their baths only to find the lifeless body of the man by the window, who had died peacefully in his sleep. <br />
<br />
<br />
She was saddened and called the hospital attendants to take the body away. <br />
<br />
As soon as it seemed appropriate, the other man asked if he could be moved next to the window. The nurse was happy to make the switch, and after making sure he was comfortable, she left him alone. <br />
<br />
Slowly, painfully, he propped himself up on one elbow to take his first look at the real world outside. <br />
He strained to slowly turn to look out the window besides the bed. <br />
<br />
It faced a blank wall.<br />
<br />
The man asked the nurse what could have compelled his deceased roommate who had described such wonderful things outside this window.<br />
<br />
The nurse responded that the man was blind and could not even see the wall. <br />
<br />
She said, 'Perhaps he just wanted to encourage you.' <br />
<br />
<br />
Epilogue: <br />
<br />
There is tremendous happiness in making others happy, despite our own situations.<br />
<br />
Shared grief is half the sorrow, but happiness when shared, is doubled. <br />
If you want to feel rich, just count all the things you have that money can't buy.<br />
'Today is a gift, that is why it is called The Present.'.<br />
<br />
Author unknownUnknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8425268917046428222.post-83650186765465665152009-12-11T05:51:00.000-08:002009-12-11T05:51:44.607-08:00Alcoholic ex husband obsessed with meThe alcoholic has been viewing my blog, from several different IPs, in various cities. Jupiter, Pompano Beach, Miami and elsewhere. He doesnt want anything to do with Jackson, 6 years of abandonment, he sought a restraining order against me, which I did NOT object too and fully gave my permission to enact, I have had nothing to do with him for years, and am currently taking him to court for failure to pay child support, and yet he cannot let go and is stalking me here.<br />
<br />
I found out recently he has moved less than 2 miles away from me after living over 90 miles away for the last 5 years. WTF?<br />
<br />
Can never figure out why a drunk does what a drunk does, but I will say this:<br />
<br />
<b>STAY AWAY FROM ME. FROM MY HOUSE. DO NOT CALL ME FROM BLOCK PHONE NUMBERS ANY MORE.<br />
</b><br />
I will do what I have to do to rid you from my life. Take this seriously.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8425268917046428222.post-39604273708954580632009-12-09T17:56:00.000-08:002009-12-09T17:56:13.068-08:00Litte bit O humor<b>BEST POEM IN THE WORLD </b><br />
<br />
I was shocked, confused, bewildered <br />
As I entered Heaven's door, <br />
Not by the beauty of it all, <br />
Nor the lights or its decor. <br />
<br />
But it was the folks in Heaven <br />
Who made me sputter and gasp-- <br />
The thieves, the liars, the sinners, <br />
The alcoholics and the trash. <br />
<br />
There stood the kid from seventh grade <br />
Who swiped my lunch money twice. <br />
Next to him was my old neighbor <br />
Who never said anything nice. <br />
<br />
Herb, who I always thought <br />
Was rotting away in hell, <br />
Was sitting pretty on cloud nine, <br />
Looking incredibly well. <br />
<br />
I nudged Jesus, 'What's the deal? <br />
I would love to hear Your take. <br />
How'd all these sinners get up here? <br />
God must've made a mistake. <br />
<br />
'And why is everyone so quiet, <br />
So somber - give me a clue.' <br />
'Hush, child,' He said, 'they're all in shock. <br />
No one thought they'd be seeing you.' <br />
<br />
JUDGE NOT!! <br />
<br />
<br />
Every saint has a PAST... <br />
Every sinner has a FUTURE! <br />
Now it's your turn... Share this poem.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8425268917046428222.post-62320025485407654182009-12-09T08:49:00.000-08:002009-12-09T08:49:17.956-08:00<div id="ZFCHANNELa554be27b8e04a46e18ba3df8a6682dd"> <div id="ZFCHANNELITEMSa554be27b8e04a46e18ba3df8a6682dd"><div class="zf_news"> <div class="zfnewscontent"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>The steps we take to pursue lesser values than the highest, lesser directions than the truest, become part of our progress as we seek greater truth.<br />
<br />
Indeed, the miracle that surprises is that our mistakes often occur in the arena in which we are meant to become the wisest, and out of greatest hardship comes the greatest success.</b></span></div><!-- <div class="zf_pubdate"><br />
Daily Reflections</div>--></div><!-- <div class="zf_footer"><br />
</div>--></div></div><!-- <div class="zf_footer"><br />
</div>--> <div id="generator"><a href="http://www.cazalet.org/zebrafeeds"><br />
</a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8425268917046428222.post-16247594127768638222009-12-08T09:14:00.001-08:002009-12-08T09:14:47.735-08:00Why does an alcoholic lie?<object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/_EUcvPln83A&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/_EUcvPln83A&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8425268917046428222.post-18936601860516759762009-12-07T05:24:00.000-08:002009-12-07T05:24:11.198-08:00How to pray, How to actA well-known entrepreneur was asked the secret of her business success. She answered, <br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">"I pray as if everything depends on God, but act as if everything depends on me."</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8425268917046428222.post-19981052029028475362009-12-06T08:23:00.001-08:002009-12-06T08:23:48.698-08:00How to get sober without AAThis is a post from a friend on another site. Talks about all the things she *tried* to get sober, instead of going to AA. (Of course, none worked):<br />
<br />
<br />
here is a list of what i tried before finally getting into AA, feel free to try all or any, hope you have more luck than i did:<br />
<br />
Rehab<br />
Resonance Treatment<br />
Addiction Counselling<br />
General Counselling<br />
Antabuse<br />
Anti Depressants<br />
Changing Career<br />
Changing Location<br />
Changing Drink<br />
Changing hours of drinking<br />
Changing venue of drinking<br />
Exercising<br />
Dieting<br />
Losing friends<br />
Cutting off family<br />
Changing partner<br />
Taking time out to get my head sorted<br />
Stopping smoking<br />
Reading self help books<br />
Losing weight<br />
Locking myself away<br />
Not carrying any money<br />
Living in Hotels, relocating after each big drink<br />
Asking advice from the barman/taxi driver/random peopleUnknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8425268917046428222.post-89762829502922570272009-12-04T19:18:00.000-08:002009-12-04T19:24:11.563-08:00What my son did tonightJackson and I went up to our local AA room for the *ask it basket* meeting. Newcomers ask questions in writing and the chair pulls from the basket a question and people respond.<br />
<br />
Afterwards, we saw our friend Marcelle, the grandmother whose grandson died of Leukemia in July. I reintroduced her to Jackson and she remembered him well, as he and her grandson were both in Alateen together for the short while her gs was a member. We shared some hugs and hellos, and as I walked away to leave, Jackson stayed behind to ask her if she liked the color pink.<br />
<br />
And then I knew. I knew what he was going to do. Ya see, Jackson has been making some key chain type lanyards lately, our of parracord. Parracord is a thick nylon cord that the military use for a multitude of purposes. He likes making them for key chains, knives or anything at all. He had made a new one yesterday and was wearing it on his belt loop to the meeting. I think he was touched when,during our conversation, she brought up Curtis, her grandson. He could see the sadness in her face. So, he asks her if she likes pink, and as I am about 10 feet away, I am watching, purposely not joining them because I want the moment to be the way it is supposed to be, private, and with him learning to be a loving, gentle man offering kindness alone. He offers her the small, pretty pink lanyard to have. She accepts it and thanks him. She was touched. I was beyond touched, but didnt say anything til we left. Just after he said goodbye to her, I see him go to another young woman/girl and start talking. Im shocked cus he is not usually too talk-a-tive in AA rooms. I leave him to finish the chat and we leave. Outside he tells me the girl was a student in one of his high school classes, he had never spoken to her at school and didnt even know her name. But, yet, here in a meeting of Alcoholics Anonymous, they speak.<br />
<br />
Wow, does God know what he is doing, or what?Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8425268917046428222.post-17206946257214017052009-12-03T18:26:00.000-08:002009-12-04T07:44:58.869-08:00Hello<div style="color: blue;">Ive been working so hard this week, no time to write out a post. So, I copied some stuff from the net to post. Im trying to keep a positive outlook, force feed kindess when it doesnt come naturally. Ive been doing some act of kindess every day, just small stuff like donating to salvation army bell ringer guy at Publix, helping out a friend with a resume etc. No need to blow my own horn here.<br />
</div><div style="color: blue;"><br />
</div><div style="color: blue;">I got a nice compliment from my boss, who I call Big Daddy Dallas, cus he lives and works in Dallas. He gave me good props for my hard work and hinted that there is something positive to come to me in future (hint: advancement inthe company). That makes me very happy. :)<br />
</div><div style="color: blue;"><br />
</div><div style="color: blue;">My young muffin, Jackson, is doing ok. Currently having a struggle, small one, at school, lost his flash drive, but all in all, he is his normal funny, quirky, nerdy but always delicious self. I love my son!!!<br />
</div><div style="color: blue;"><br />
</div><div style="color: blue;">We are looking forward to a nice 2 week holiday at Christmas. We will be going to Tuba Christmas on the 19th. What, you dont know what Tuba Christmas is???? Ha....most people dont. It is an all tuba Christmas concert. Outdoors, on a stage in a Capra-esque park in Winter Park, Fl. Anyone who plays a tuba is welcome, just show up, reherse for an hour, and blow your horn. He did it 2 years ago and had a blast. I cannot wait to go again!<br />
</div><div style="color: blue;"><br />
</div><div style="color: blue;">Today, we are living, not just surviving, through alcoholism. It is a feeling that I have worked years to attain, and by God, I will keep coming back to keep it with me.<br />
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8425268917046428222.post-9856410149243354062009-12-02T16:26:00.000-08:002009-12-02T16:59:19.789-08:00Christmas Gift suggestions that mean something<span style="color: blue; font-size: x-large;">Christmas gift suggestions</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">- By Oren Arnold</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">To your enemy, forgiveness.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue;">To an opponent, tolerance.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue;">To a friend, your heart.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">To a customer, service.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">To all, charity.</span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;">To every child, a good example.</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">To yourself, respect.</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8425268917046428222.post-41930471728831808932009-12-01T04:37:00.001-08:002009-12-01T04:37:50.531-08:00Ideas on how to be kind<ul><li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=1">Help The Homeless</a>: Donate your professional clothes to an organization that helps people get back into the workforce. G... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=2">Valentine's Day in September</a>: Don't wait until February to recognize the impact they make in your life. Celebrate Valentine's Day ... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=3">Lend a Hand to All Parents</a>: Baby sit. Deliver a cooked meal for the entire family. Let their children spend the day with you or ... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=4">Reachout to the Homebound</a>: Reach out to the homebound -- seniors, ill or incapacitate children or caregivers committed to carin... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=5">Crafts of Kindness</a>: Ask a creative crafter to help you with acts of kindness. Knit a hat for a homeless person this wint... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=6">Corporate Compassion</a>: Plant seeds of kindness in the corporate world. Find the office of your CEO and leave a thank-you ca... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=7">Gift of Generosity</a>: Next time you give a gift, deliver it in a context of generosity. On your friend's birthday, sponsor... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=8">Healing Kindness</a>: Express kindness to those who are healing. Leave a stuffed animal for a child in a hospital. Plant a... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=9">Long Distance Kindness</a>: Reach out to far away lands, with long distance kindness. Ask your penpal to do something kind in hi... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=10">Honor Your Heroes</a>: Honor your heroes with kindness. Dedicate a small act of kindness to your hero by writing them a let... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=11">Kindness Towards Environment</a>: Practice kindness towards the environment. Participate in beach or park cleanups. Reduce air polluti... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=12">Globs of Gratitude</a>: Appreciate someone who has done something kind for you. Send a 'Thank You' card to someone who's hel... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=13">Five Bucks And Under</a>: What can you do with five bucks to make someone's day? Tape the exact change for a soda to a vending... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=14">Spring Forward</a>: Clean out your closet and take the extra clothes to a local nonprofit organization. If you have flo... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=15">Community Kindness</a>: Appreciate a community worker. Give a thank-you card to a bus driver who is driving off-peak hours, ... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=16">Tag the Ones Closest</a>: Do something kind for those closest to you. Give your housemate a hug in the morning, for no reason.... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=17">Public Transportation</a>: Before you get off the bus or train, leave an inspiring book on a seat with a Smile Card. Give a flo... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=18">Lending An Ear</a>: Sometimes kindness is as simple as listening. Lend an ear to someone going through a tough time. N... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=19">Connect with Seniors</a>: Connect with seniors in your community. Visit senior centers or nursing homes. Walk or visit with ... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=20">Public Places</a>: Beautify public places in your community. Clean graffiti on public walls. Have a clean-up party at ... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=21">Family Kindness</a>: Surprise your family with an act of kindness. Send flowers (or a plant) to your mom or dad. Have e... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=22">Hear the Homeless</a>: It's been a long winter. Make some soup or sandwich for a homeless person in your neighborhood and d... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=23">Gift of Books</a>: Never underestimate the power of books to expand minds. Give an inspiring book to a friend in need. ... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=24">Volunteer Wonders</a>: Volunteering often provides a good opportunity to be exposed to people who may be in need of an anon... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=25">Restaurant Uproar</a>: Tag someone at a restaurant. Buy someone dessert. Pay for the person behind you at a drive-thru. Pic... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=26">Kindness With Children</a>: Get children excited about kindness. Have a child deliver a hand-made card to your neighbor. Gathe... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=27">Halloween Happiness</a>: Volunteer to take a child trick-or-treating. Teach a kid about safety while out at night; give them ... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=28">Flowers of Kindness</a>: Send unexpected bouquet of flowers to the hard-working receptionist in your office building. Plant ... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=29">The Small Things</a>: Share your umbrella with someone who doesn't have one. Write a thank-you note to a mentor or someo... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=30">Pen is Mightier Than the Sword</a>: Pen is mightier than the sword, they say. Write a note of appreciation to someone. Send an inspirat... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=31">Giving Thanks</a>: Give thanks. Volunteer at a soup kitchen. Invite someone for dinner who would otherwise be spendin... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=32">Winter Warmth</a>: As December approaches, the heaters turn on and jackets are zipped up, be mindful of the less fortun... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=33">Gift of Inner Transformation</a>: Restrain from criticizing or saying anything negative to anyone this week. In a challenging situatio... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=34">Seven Greatest Gifts</a>: Gift of service: donate to a cause, as a holiday gift for your best friend. Gift of affection: be g... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=35">New Year's Resolutions</a>: Make a New Year's resolution about giving. Do one small act of kindness every month, whether it is ... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=36">Give of Yourself</a>: Prepare a nutritious sack lunch for a homeless person and hand it to him/her saying "have a great da... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=37">Kindness With Youngsters</a>: Get kids excited about kindness! Setup a 'lemonade' stand on a busy street corner in your neighborh... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=38">Be Vocal In Times of Beauty</a>: Create beauty, in the spirit of kindness. Draw the feeling of kindness and send it as a postcard to... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=39">Ideas in Five Words or Less</a>: Read to a child. Make a wish come true. Rake someone's yard. Smile at a stranger. Be a courteous dr... </li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/ideas.php?op=weekly&id=40">Stop Negative Comments</a>: Create change one conversation at a time. Stand up for a woman who is the target of a sexist remark... </li>
</ul>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1