I Am Thankful For...

I am thankful...

...for the husband who is on the sofa being a couch potato,
because he is home with me and not out at the bars.

...for the teenager who is complaining about doing dishes,
because it means she is at home, not on the streets.

...for the taxes I pay, because it means I am employed.

...for the mess to clean after a party,
because it means I have been surrounded by friends.

...for the clothes that fit a little too snug,
because it means I have enough to eat.

...for my shadow that watches me work,
because it means I am out in the sunshine.

...for a lawn that needs mowing, windows that need cleaning, and gutters that need fixing,
because it means I have a home.

...for all the complaining I hear about the government,
because it means we have freedome of speech.

...for the parking spot I find at the far end of the parking lot,
because it means I am capable of walking and I have been blessed with transportation.

...for my huge heating bill,
because it means I am warm.

...for the lady behind me in church who sings off key,
because it means I can hear.

...for the pile of laundry and ironing,
because it means I have clothes to wear.

...for weariness and aching muscles at the end of the day,
because it means I have been capable of working hard.

...for the alarm that goes off in the early morning hours,
because it means I am alive.

...and finally, for too much e-mail,
because it means I have friends who are thinking of me.

Live well, Laugh often, & Love with all of your heart!

~Angela

Head Massages by Hairdressers are Awesome!

"Massage is an important part of customer care, inducing a sense of wellbeing, improving the health of hair and skin, and enhancing and intensifying the effect of a product." - ASK Education, Schwartzkopf Professional

I remember once I told my hairdresser that I had a headache, and she gave me the best head massage and my headache went away. I have had the best head massages by hairdressers.  Next time you have to get your hair cut, make sure you pay attention to the way they scrub your scalp.  They have been trained in how to give a really great scalp/head massage. 

The last time I had my hair done, I had my hair shampooed and the massage I received was outstanding!  I felt pampered, relaxed and rejuvenated.  We all need to get our hair cut, so make sure you treat yourself to a great shampoo/head massage and enjoy every minute of it!

Have a great day!
~Angela

Spreading Verbal Sunshine

"A compliment is verbal sunshine."  Robert Orben

One way to spread happiness to others throughout your day is to give a sincere compliment about something you admire in them.  An expression of praise or admiration boosts one's morale.  Compliments can be in the form of praise, congratulations, respect, commendation, admiration, affection or encouragement.

Compliments are intended to make someone else feel good.  I enjoy complimenting others on things such as what they are wearing, the way their hair looks, or praising them for a job well done.  I can tell it makes them feel a little better about themselves because they smile and say, "Thanks". 

The best kinds of compliments are those that are sincere, and are believed to be true.  The more detailed, the better.  I complimented a friend on a new top she was wearing, and she smiled and lit-up when I told her the colour looked really good on her.  It is really quite easy to help make others feel special.

Let's spread some verbal sunshine today!

~Angela

Volunteering Makes a Difference

I am a volunteer for the Children's Hospital Book Market and I volunteered for their big sale recently.  I've been able to combine my love of books with my desire to help my community.  My job is to ensure that the donated books are arranged attractively on the tables, spine-up, so that potential buyers can easily browse and choose what books they would like to buy. As the books are sold, I replenish them with books that are kept in boxes under the tables.  I also spot those avid readers who need more room than just their arms to carry their books - they need a shopping basket!  A lot of the serious book-lovers bring their lists of books that they've read and/or need so that they know exactly what they are looking for.  I try to head them in the right direction.  I even recommended a book that I enjoyed to a young woman and she bought it (LittleWhite Lies, by Gemma Townley).   All ages come to the Book Market, and I enjoy helping each and every person.

Each time someone buys a book, they are donating money to a great cause - to help children in need.    I feel good when I volunteer, and I enjoy being out with the public.  It's so much different than my regular day job.

"Nobody can do everything, but everyone can do something." ~Author Unknown

Have a wonderful, useful, productive day!

~Angela

Power Hour

Instead of going to the gym the other day, I went for a "Power Hour" walk with my husband.  It's been a while since I actually power-walked.  Here's what happened:

1.  I witnessed a sunset.
2.  I smelled stinky manure.
3.  My feet hurt, because I wore the wrong socks.
4.  I saw a really cute dachshund puppy.
5.  I spent some quality, walk-and-talk therapy time with my hubby.
6.  I text-messaged my daughter about 10 times.
7.  I sang with a robin.
8.  I decided I need new "walking shoes" because my feet hurt.
9.  I did my stretches when I got back.
10.  I took off my socks and saw I had a really huge blister on the bottom on my left foot (ouch!).

All-in-all it was a good, productive work-out.  We walked about 4.5 kilometers.  I liked it way more than going to the gym (except for the smelly manure and blister).  You just don't get all this variety at the gym.  The doctor recommends I walk for 30 minutes a day.  I wondered if I walked for 3.5 hours once a week would that count?  (after my blister has healed).  I can't believe I got blisters from walking for one hour.  On the bright side, I did get some exercise and fresh air.

What can you do in a "Power Hour"?  

Ciao!
~Angela

Celebrating One Month of Blogging!

***Blog as defined in Wiktionary:  
(Internet) website that allows users to reflect, share opinions, and discuss various topics in the form of an online journal while readers may comment on posts. Entries typically appear in reverse chronological order.***

Today I want to acknowledge that I have been an official "blogger" for one month.  This whole new venture started for me when my son said, "Mom, why don't you start a blog?".  When life gets you down, and you want to turn things around, blogging is definitely an option that can help.   The word blog actually is a short-form for the term, "weblog".  Personal, online diaries or journals started this revolution in the mid-90's.  I've noticed since I have been blogging (31 posts ago), I am happier, more focused on the positive, and things are looking up.  I hope to continue to blog and I hope to continue to plant seeds of optimism and happiness throughout the web. 

What I ask of you, Dear Reader, is if you can think of anything I can do to make these blogs more entertaining or useful, or if you can think of any other kind of improvement, please let me know.

Thanks for being there, and I enjoy sharing with you.

~Angela (Blogger Extraodinaire in the making)

Love is in the Air

And they say a bird pooping on you is good luck!

I borrowed this image from despair.com, with permission.

Have a great, romantic, day, and try to laugh once or twice, too!

~Angela

Practice Random Acts of Kindness

The other day, when I was at our local movie theatre, I realized I had an extra coupon that entitled the bearer to a 75 cent admission.  To get in for a movie for 75 cents seems pretty reasonable, I'd think.  The coupon was going to expire, and I didn't need it.  I had an extra, and what I decided to do was to give it to someone waiting in line that was about to purchase their movie ticket. 

A little girl, about 4 or 5 years old caught my eye.  She was with a man, who appeared to be her father.  I approached the man, and offered him the coupon, telling him that I didn't need it, and hoped that he could make good use of it.  He looked at me in surprise, and looked down at the coupon, smiled and thanked me.  I'm not generally one to toot my own horn, but I just wanted to make a point about Random Acts of Kindness.  I felt happy about my good deed for the day, and know that my kindness and thoughtfulness made someone's day a little brighter.

You can find more stories about Random Acts of Kindness in the Winnipeg Free Press Online edition.  I have read through a few of the stories, and it helps me see that there are lots of kind people out there, and if we all take turns, it will make our day a little brighter.  Some even choose to Pay it Forward. 

Check it out:  http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/opinion/blogs/kindness/Random_acts_of_kindness.html

With Kindness,
~Angela

Counting Your Lucky Stars

 "Friends are like stars... you don't always see them, but you know they're always there." ---Hulali Luta

It's nice to spend time with people who are kind and who have a positive outlook. Give yourself permission to avoid those who bring you down. You owe it to yourself. Clean out your closet by assessing those around you and avoid those who do not fit into your life anymore.  Ask those who you like to spend time with out to a movie, or out to dinner, or over for a visit.  Go to a movie that will bring joy and laughter. Play games - ones that make you laugh.  Let them know you appreciate them and enjoy having them in your life.  Good friends are priceless, and I am thankful for "all my lucky stars".  Think about the friends in your life, those who make you feel good.  They are your lucky stars.

~Angela

Madonna fills TV viewers with Glee

A fun program on TV these days, is called, Glee.  It's based on a high school that performs music and dancing.  The "Power of Madonna" episode was aired recently and it was sure fun to watch my favourite artists' music, from a span of over 25 years or so, be brought to life by some young (and not so young) talented actors, dancers and singers.  I especially liked the powerful message of equality between the sexes and the message of empowerment for girls of all ages.  It was a fun trip and I hope that if you missed it, that you can catch it on youtube.com or download this episode from the internet. 

I am one of Madonna's greatest fans, and I really enjoyed what this episode of Glee did with her music and cultural messages.

" I'd like to think I am taking people on a journey; I am not just entertaining people,

but giving them something to think about when they leave." - Madonna 

~Angela

Two very kind words, Thank you.

 

Let us be grateful to people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.
-- Marcel Proust

How many times did you say "Thank you" today?  How many times did you hear "Thank you" today?  These are two very powerful, kind words that express gratitude and happiness. 
 
As my daughter leaves her friends house after a great time, she always says, "Thanks for having me over".  Whenever I go to my mother-in-laws for supper, I always say thanks so much for the great meal.  When I buy my husband a little treat, he says "Thanks Honey".  When I drop my son off at school in the morning, he says, "Thanks for the ride".   Whenever my dog gets a treat, I can see the thankfulness in his tail as it wags.  
 
When we are appreciated and someone expresses their gratitude, it makes us feel good.  What are you thankful for?
 
Thanks for reading my blog, I hope you enjoy it. 
 
~Angela

Relaxing is Good for the Soul

"He enjoys true leisure who has time to improve his soul's estate."

Henry David Thoreau

 
I have a covered garden swing in the back yard, big enough for three people to sit on (four if we squish). I love to go out there when the weather is nice, and I love to look at the back yard, and listen to the birds. I especially like to lay down on my back, rock back and forth, and read a book. When I get tired of reading, I like to close my eyes and take some deep breaths and just be. Relax. Be still.   Yesterday I made a date with myself to do just that.  I thoroughly enjoyed it.  Where is your favourite spot to relax?
~Angela

Declutter and Donate at the Same Time

To keep order in my home, I like to remove as much clutter as possible.  As I find items I/we no longer need, I place them in a plastic bag in my front closet.  There are two companies that call us on a regular basis to see if we have any unwanted, reusable articles of clothing or household items.  I often have three or four bags that are ready to go by the time I get the call.  All I have to do then, is simply place the bags outside on my front doorstep, label them for donation, and away the clutter goes!  I feel good because I am helping in way of a donation and I also get rid of unwanted items in our home.

Another tip I have learned, is if I buy a new article of clothing, I have to get rid of one or two items that I no longer enjoy or wear. 

A decluttered home makes me happy.  It's the simplicity and order that I crave.  What makes you happy?

Cheers!
~Angela

A Big Bear Hug

Have you hugged yourself today?

Next time you get out of the pool, lake, ocean (or shower!) make sure you give yourself a big bear hug.  Put the big bath towel behind your back, and grasp both ends and wrap it around your shoulders.  Then take your arms, and cross them over your chest and make it really snug.  Take a moment and feel the sensation of a big bear hug.  Take a deep breath and smile!

“You must love yourself before you love another.

By accepting yourself and fully being what you are,

your simple presence can make others happy.”

Have a wonderful day!
~Angela

What's on Your Bucket List?

I saw a movie a few years ago, called, The Bucket List. It was about two older men who had terminal illnesses, and decided to do the things they wanted to do before they died, or "kicked the bucket".  It was a great, fun movie. I have a list of things I'd like to do in my life time (my life goals/dreams) and I often look at this list and see where I am at.  My list changes every year or two, so I have to review it and update it. Do you have a "bucket list"?  I'll share mine here in hopes of giving you some ideas if you haven't done one yet:

My Bucket List – April 2010*

- See Madonna Live in Concert (Done - Nov. 3, 2012 St. Paul)
- Spend a romantic week (or two!) in Paris (done August 2011)
- Go to New York (done August 2014)
- Swim with the dolphins (done Feb. 2010)
- Go on a hot air balloon ride (done August 2012)
- Sailing (done Aug 2014)
- Get a Master of Social Work degree (Completed October 2014)
- Write a book on Aging Well
- Celebrate my 25th Wedding Anniversary
- Go to Costa Rica (Done 2015)
- Go to Hawaii (a cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line?)
- Own a corvette
- Pay off all debt
- Take a photography course
- Ride on a hovercraft
- Move to a bungalow
- Watch my children graduate from high school (one down, one to go!)
- Watch my children graduate from college/university
- Watch my children get married
- Celebrate my 50th Wedding Anniversary


Life is short and you have to enjoy every day. Focus on the positive and count your blessings.  Achieving your own goals and dreams can help you feel happier. Have a happy day!

“Happiness is what you feel when what you want to happen happens.”

- Angela G. Gentile

*Updated 06 Sep 2014.

Ellen De-Generous

Sometimes when I am at the gym on the elliptical, I put on my ear buds and hook up to one of the TV channels they have playing.  One of the TV programs I like to watch is Ellen.  Ellen DeGeneres is funny, uplifting, and often has interesting and humourous guests on.  Today I watched some funny videos and some interesting and very humourous Real Estate listings.  She loves to dance, and gets the whole audience up and dancing.  She's a Covergirl, she's married, and is openly gay.  She is very generous and often has giveaways  for the entire audience at her shows (I'd love to go to one of her shows!). 

I enjoyed her voice as the fish Dory in the movie, Finding Nemo.  Dory had a short term memory problem, and Ellen brought so much humour into the role and it made it more fun to watch.  She is currently a judge on Americal Idol and she brings humour into the show whenever she can.

This is an excellent quote I found:

"For me, it's that I contributed, ... That I'm on this planet doing some good and making people happy. That's to me the most important thing, that my hour of television is positive and upbeat and an antidote for all the negative stuff going on in life. "  Ellen DeGeneres

Check out The Ellen DeGeneres Show at http://ellen.warnerbros.com/ 

Have a happy day!

~Angela

Breaking the Ice

This is a picture I took when I was up at my dad's in Ontario on the weekend of April 2/10.  I love this little island and I often take pictures of it at different times of the year.  I've never taken a picture of it in the spring time and I never realized how beautiful it looks.  The ice is going out really early this year my dad said, as he is usually able to go ice fishing this time of year, right around his birthday.  Spring is my favourite time of year, with promises of warmer weather on the way, and newness all around.

~Angela

I Love Lucy

"Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole." - Roger Caras

Lucy is a 4-year-old yorkipoo, and we are dog-sitting her for a week or two.  We are enjoying having this "little heartbeat at our feet", and Rocky, our 4-year-old cockapoo is also enjoying her company.  Lucy enjoys the kennel that our dog Gypsy used to enjoy.  She likes belly rubs, and massages.  She is a sweet little dog, and we are enjoying her while she is with us.  Dogs are wonderful pets, and they bring a little bit of fun and sunshine into our lives, and encourage us to get outside more. Thanks to Lucy's owners for letting us borrow her for awhile.

 "I think dogs are the most amazing creatures;

they give unconditional love.

For me they are the role model for being alive."

 - Gilda Radner

~Angela

On Top of the Moon

"If you cannot inspire a woman with love of you,

fill her above the brim with love of herself;

all that runs over will be yours." 

- Charles Caleb Colton

I was talking to a good friend the other day, and she was telling me about a new relationship she is in. I was telling her about my life, and how things seem to be going pretty good.  She told me that she and this new man in her life have so many common interests, and she has a really good feeling about their future together.  She said she hasn't felt like this about anyone for many years.  She told me, "I'm on top of the world - no, I'm on top of the Moon!".  I am so happy for her. 

Good, lasting, loving relationships can be hard to find.  When you find that special someone, it can make you feel complete.  Many new relationships start off where the two people spend most of their free time together.  Getting to know each other is important in these early stages of courtship.  Congratulations to those who have found their special someone.  May you remain "on top of the moon"!

~Angela

Silly Goose

The geese are back!  While at work one day, I came across these two geese sitting in an empty field.  Now, if I was a goose, and I wanted to spend some quality time with my mate (they apparently mate for life!), I don't think I'd choose a location like this.  I'd prefer to dine right beside a very busy highway, and maybe nest on the side of a ditch in the middle of nowhere.  These two geese must be very much in love, and are completely oblivious to all the construction going on around them.  Can't see what goods there are to eat here, either.

I actually saw two large geese fighting the other day.  It looked like they were fighting over a girl, maybe? It looked like they had each other in a "beak" hold, and their wings were outstretched. That was quite a sight to see.  I enjoy watching geese and studying their behaviour.

I look forward to seeing the little goslings that pop up everywhere.  There are actually signs posted on the main boulevard that I drive to work.  They tell traffic to, "Slow down - Geese Crossing".  It is so cute to see an adult goose, carefully crossing the road, with a whole bunch of little ones in tow.

~Angela

Mission: Surprise!

My coworker turned 60, and we (she and I) had planned to go out for lunch on her birthday. What she didn't know was that I planned a big surprise lunch party for her! I circulated a card and took a collection and it ended up there were 20 people waiting for her at the restaurant. She was totally surprised! Had no clue what we were up to. As we walked towards the table full of familiar faces, she turned to me and said, "What have you done?" I said, "Surprise! They are all here for your birthday!" The shocked look on her face was priceless. As reality sunk in, she was so touched. I couldn't believe we kept this from her for almost two weeks without letting the secret out! We bought her some gifts, too. She was very thankful and greatful for what we had done for her.  Boy, sure is nice to see someone happy.  Who can I surpise next?

~Angela

Sun, Glorious Sun

When it's sunny out, I get out my sunglasses and revel in the joy of the warmth of the sun. We get sun all year here in the north, but it's not always that warm that's for sure. Once I went on a trip down in Mexico, and I was truly enjoying the feeling of the sun on my face while I was sitting on a boat as we cruised across the water. Sheer pleasure and gratitude.

"Wherever you go, no matter what the weather, always bring your own sunshine. " -- Anthony J. D'Angelo

~Angela

It pays to be patient, kind, polite and hopeful

I have a waterproof watch, and I bought it for a trip I took three years ago. I was planning on using this watch in the water, because the destination had beaches and pools. The watch I bought worked great on this trip, and three years later I was planning to bring it on my next vacation. I got the watch out of the jewellry box, and found that the battery was dead. I went around to a few different watch battery/repair shops, and they all told me something different. Some said that they couldn't replace the battery as they don't do waterproof watches, and some said that they'd have to send it away and it would cost a lot of money. I stopped in to a brand new jewellry store last November, Appelt's, and they didn't hesitate by telling me they could fix it right away, for $10.00. I was quite surprised and happy to hear that they could do it, and for a reasonable price. I had mentioned that the other jewellry stores were not giving me much hope, and they happily agreed to look after it. I trusted that they knew what they were doing, and that maybe they had that special machine that helps keep the water out.

I packed my now running, waterproof watch in my suitcase, and away we went on our beach and sand vacation. After the first time in the water, the watch stopped working. I was so upset and angry. We continued our trip, and I was watchless (and I survived!). I was very disappointed and planned to take the watch and receipt back to the jewellry store and report what happened.

I went in to the store, with watch and receipt in hand, and I told them that the watch had stopped working the same day that I had gone into the water with it. As I was telling my story, the wind-up part of the watch fell right off. The watch was working, but was not keeping time. The sales clerk said she would send it in to the watchmaker for an estimate to see what was wrong. I told her my story about it being waterproof and that the sales clerk said she could do it right on the spot, and that I doubted the seal was fixed properly. The clerk that was helping me said that it sounds like it wasn't pressure-sealed. She said the wind-up piece falling off though, had nothing to do with the battery being replaced.

A couple weeks later, the clerk called, and said that the estimate to repair the watch would be $80.00. I told her, nicely, that I didn't think that I would have to pay this, because I thought the watch was damaged due to their error. She ended up talking to a manager, and they said they would take $30.00 off the repair. I said I'd have to think about it, because I didn't remember how much the watch was worth, and I was still unsure about the reason why it wasn't working. I stayed very calm and polite during the whole conversation. I am sure she could sense the disappointment and hesitancy in my voice.

A couple weeks later, I received a call that my watch was in. I assumed that it was a reminder call that my watch was there and we needed to deal with it.

I still didn't know what to do, so I put off going into the jewellry store. About two weeks later, I decided to go into Appelt's to "face the music". I remained very calm, and unsure as to what I was going to do about this watch. A part of me decided that maybe I should just cut my losses, and forget about it. A part of me wanted the watch fixed (and paid for) by them because I felt it was their fault to begin with. A part of me wanted to get the watch fixed for $50. Yet another part of me just wanted my broken watch back and the $10 back that I had paid for the battery. I went in to the store with this big, heavy cloud over me. I must have looked sad, and unsure of myself. I walked into the store, tried to put on a happy face, and said I was there to pick up my watch.

The clerk went into the back, pulled my watch out of the drawer, and said, my watch was fixed and the total was $80.00. I said, "Oh, but I didn't approve the repair". She went over to the manager, and told the manager my response. I remained very calm, and now confused. I was very patient while they briefly talked it over. The sales clerk came back to me with the watch, and at the same time, the manager said, "Don't worry about it. We fixed it for you". I was so shocked and surprised, and very grateful that the decision was finally made for me. I let them know how happy and thankful I was with the outcome.

I learned from this experience that it pays to be patient, kind, polite and hopeful. I know that Appelt's most certainly felt responsible for damaging the watch to an extent, but they were not taking 100% responsibility. This is a true example of good business, and I would do business with them again. If I need a new watch battery in my waterproof watch, I will ensure that they do it right next time, the first time!

~Angela

Movie night

What is your favourite, feel-good movie? When we take the time to sit with family, friends, or just to be by ourselves, it is often a good time to watch a movie that can make us reflect on life, have a good laugh, or feel good. Most of the movies out there nowadays include a lot of violence, and I choose to avoid those movies because they don't make me feel good.

One of my favourite movies, is called, "August Rush", a musical drama. The music, cinematography, and storyline are so beautiful. The ending is awesome. Make sure you have lots of kleenex on hand. This is a movie I can watch over and over again.

"Tells the story of Louis, a charismatic young Irish guitarist and Lyla, a sheltered young cellist who have a chance encounter one magical night above New York's Washington Square, but are soon torn apart, leaving in their wake an infant, August Rush, orphaned by circumstance. Now performing on the streets of New York and cared for by a mysterious stranger, August uses his remarkable musical talent to seek the parents from whom he was separated at birth. Rated G, 2007."

Happy movie-watching!

~Angela

Love is the answer, that's what they say

"The new version of Wavin’ Flag stays true to the original — hopeful, epic, with a catchy, uplifting chorus that almost forces you to sing along while giving you chills. "

On January 12, 2010, Haiti has experienced a tremendous disaster, an earthquake that took the lives of an estimated 250,000 and affected approx. 3 million people.  It is incredible to see how the world has responded in terms of humanitarian aid.  It makes me happy to see many young Canadian artists coming together to provide assistance and financial aid through music.  The song, "Wavin' Flag", has beautiful lyrics, and the number of talented singers coming together presents a strong, powerful message.  This song/music video makes me proud to be Canadian.

"Countries and international organizations pledged nearly $10 billion to rebuild Haiti after January's devastating earthquake. " CTV News.

~Angela

Pussy Willows and Rainbows

                                                                                                                                                                   I went for a walk in the country yesterday, looking for early signs of spring. I came across a bush of pussy willows.  As a kid, I found these little furry buds fascinating and magical.  Still, to this day, I find them special, as they signal the end to a long cold winter, and the newness of spring time.  I took home a a few stems, put them in a vase, and love to be reminded of the changing seasons and promise of warmer weather.  I also saw a rainbow yesterday - a magical bow of colour.  It was a great day!  ~Angela

Marriage is a Choice - Celebrating Love

This weekend I had the pleasure of attending my brother's wedding to his long-time lover and friend.  They had known each other for a very long time (she said she wanted to marry him when she was 12 years old!), and had been living together for a number of years.  The excitement I felt at Christmas time when I heard they were engaged was over-the-top. I think that the decision to marry someone is one of the most powerful ways to show your committment to the one you love.

My husband and I have been married (officially, on paper!) for 20 years this May.  As I reflect on my own marriage and committment and the step that my brother and now "official" sister-in-law have taken, I realize that for some, a loving union isn't really "complete" until those official vows are taken and witnessed in front of family and friends that care about us. For those who do decide to "get married", there is always a time between finding each other, falling in love, and setting the date.  For some, that time period may be 1 or 2 months, for others it could be 15 years.  The reasons and timing for marriage vary and in the end it doesn't really matter.  What does matter is that the two people getting married want to share their lives together.

This weekend we witnessed two people committing themselves to each other in the wonderful union of marriage.  We celebrated, danced, laughed and had a wonderful time connecting with family and friends.  It was a great time and I was happy to be part of this special occasion.  As the designated photographer, I had a front-row seat to all the excitement and joy and I am very thankful for that. It was a great time. 

"Happy marriages begin when we marry the ones we love, and they blossom when we love the ones we marry."
-Tom Mullen


Have a wonderful day!

~Angela

Happiness in our Golden Years

In my job, I have the honour and privilege of working with older adults. The average age of my clients I would say is in the mid-eighties. I informally polled three of my cognitively-intact, female elderly clients. They all lived alone. What I asked them was, "What brings you happiness? What brings you joy? What do you look forward to?"

The first woman I asked was 82 years old. Her answer was plain, simple and took no thought at all. She said, "My family. I have 6 children, 18 grandchildren, and 11 or 12 great grandchildren. I have to stop and think, and count them, because it's hard to keep up with all of them. I especially enjoy the company of my three-year-old great grandchild". She then directed me to look at a picture frame on her wall. It had all her grandchildren standing on a stairwell. You could tell she was very happy to share this moment with me. The second woman, who was 8 years old, quickly replied, "lunch with my friends. I still have a brain, so that makes me happy, too. I enjoy reading and following US politics on television". The third woman, who is 84 years old, had to think a bit. At first, she couldn't think of anything. After my prompting and encouragement to find an answer, she stated, "My family". She also went on to say she really enjoyed reading and knitting.

With these thoughts in mind, I think about what brings me happiness and joy now and what it will be in the future as I grow older. The importance of staying connected with family and friends is up there on my list. Reading is and has been a love of mine, so I hope for many years that I continue to "have my brains" and my eyesight so I can continue to do what I love.

I am curious to know what my clients who have cognitive impairment will answer when I ask these same questions.

May happiness continue for many, many years.

~Angela

Lucky Seven

Debbie, my co-worker had a really interesting story to tell us. On Monday morning, she told us about a dog, Misty, she had adopted from the Humane Society. She was a chocolate lab. She had been working with the dog for a few weeks (she volunteers with the Humane Society), and they had said that she was going to be put down because she had a head-tilt, and no one wanted her. Debbie said that Misty had a really nice temperament, and she couldn't bear the fact that she would be put down. She decided to adopt the dog. Misty was three years old.

Debbie had the dog for a short time, and she noticed the dog was gaining weight. The Humane Society told her that the dog was in good health, and she also had her own vet examine Misty. Debbie brought the dog out for a walk on Thursday night, and a man said to her, "your dog looks pregnant". Debbie did not believe him. She considered bringing the dog back to the vet for another check up.

Debbie got home from work on Friday and her other dogs were jumping around, excitedly, like they wanted to tell her that something very exciting was going on. Debbie proceeded to look for Misty, and found her in her bedroom. Upon closer inspection, she saw a little fair-haired puppy. Her lab had given birth and Debbie was quite surprised. She wondered, where did this little creature come from? Once reality sunk in, she realized that her dog was giving birth. As the evening progressed, Debbie and her son watched the puppies being born. Seven puppies in all. White ones, blond ones, brown ones and black ones. Debbie came to work on Monday telling us her story. She went around work showing off pictures of her new little puppies. The Humane Society supports her and promises to have them all fixed. Debbie committed to making her kitchen puppy-safe so she can raise them in a loving environment.

The joy, excitement and entertainment this story brought to Debbie, her family and co-workers brightened up our week. Debbie was even on the local TV station. They had interviewed her and she was able to tell her store at the Humane Society Fundraiser. Debbie had decided to keep Misty and all her puppies, and to raise them in hopes of finding them a new home. "Search and Rescue" has already approached her and has asked to have a look at the dogs when they are old enough to be adopted. These puppies have the potential to save other's lives. The Humane Society is equally happy to have such a wonderful volunteer who has gone above and beyond her call of duty. I call this story, "Lucky Seven", because Debbie has saved the life of not only Misty, but her seven little miracles.

"Happiness is a warm puppy!" - Charles Schultz

Have a great day!

~Angela

Free as a Bird

"A bird does not sing because it has an answer. It sings because it has a song." Chinese Proverb.

I really enjoy watching the birds that come to visit us. I come by it honestly, as my grandfather used to have a large birdfeeder just outside the front window up at the cottage. We'd spend many lazy afternoons watching the birds and squirrels fight over the nuts and seeds that he put out for them.

Just yesterday, I saw many birds outside in our backyard. I was pleased to see that the juncos are back. I also saw robins, grackles and finches. Juncos stay around for such a short period of time. They are small and have a grey and white coat. I can't wait to put out my bird bath. I have to wait until there's no risk of frost, as the first bird bath cracked in the cold and I had it replaced. We have a home-made wooden bird feeder, a hanging plastic feeder and two home-made wooden bird houses just off our kitchen. I can see the birds when I am sitting at my kitchen table. We get all kinds of visitors - including squirrels. The song birds are especially welcomed. We really look forward to the gold finches and the purple martins (we have a hotel for them - it will go up in a month or so).

Getting in tune with nature is very relaxing and birdwatching increases my awareness and appreciation of wildlife.

Angela