Friday, July 3, 2009


Always in our prayers.

Sunday, June 21, 2009

When God Created Fathers by Erma Bombeck


When God Created Fathers

by Erma Bombeck
When the good Lord was creating fathers He started with a tall frame.

And a female angel nearby said, “What kind of father is that? If You’re going to make children so close to the ground, why have You put fathers up so high? He won’t be able to shoot marbles without kneeling, tuck a child in bed without bending, or even kiss a child without a lot of stooping.”

And God smiled and said, “Yes, but if I make him child-size, whom would children have to look up to?”

And when God made a father’s hands, they were large and sinewy.

And the angel shook her head sadly and said, “Do You know what You’re doing?” Large hands are clumsy. They can’t manage diaper pins, small buttons, rubber bands on ponytails or even remove splinters causedby baseball bats.”

And God smiled and said, “I know, but they’re large enough to hold everything a small boy empties from his pockets at the end of a day … yet small enough to cup a child’s face in his hands.”

And then God molded long slim legs and broad shoulders.

And the angel nearby had a heart attack. “Boy, this is the end of the week, all right,” she clucked, "Do You realize You just made a father without a lap? How is he going to pull a child close to him without the kid falling between his legs?”

And God smiled and said, “A mother needs a lap. A father needs strong shoulders to pull a sled, balance a boy on a bicycle, or hold a sleepy head on the way home from the circus.”

God was in the middle of creating two of the largest feet anyone had ever seen when the angel could contain herself no longer.

“That’s not fair. Do You honestly think those large boats are going to dig out of bed early in the morning when the baby cries? Or walk through a small birthday party without crushing at least three of the guests?”

And God smiled and said. “They’ll work. You’ll see. They’ll support a small child who wants to ‘ride a horse to Banbury Cross,’ or scare off mice at the summer cabin, or display shoes that will be a challenge to fill.”

God worked throughout the night, giving the father few words, but a firm, authoritative voice; eyes that saw everything, but remained calm and tolerant.

Finally, almost as an afterthought, He added tears.

Then He turned to the Angel and said, “Now are you satisfied that he can love as much as a mother?”

The angel shuteth up.

Sunday, April 12, 2009

Happy Easter









Wishing Everyone a Happy Easter!

Monday, February 9, 2009

I AM THANKFUL:


For the Wife



who says it's hot dogs tonight because she is home with me & not out with someone else.




For the Husband


who is on the sofa being a couch potato because he is home with me & not out at the bars.





For the Teenager



who is complaining about doing the 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 & 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 freedom of speech.







For the Parking Spot I Find at the End of the Parking Lot


because it means I am capable of walking & 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 & Ironing





because it means I have clothes to wear.




For the Weariness & Aching Muscles at the End of the Day


because it means I am 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 Email Because It Means I Have Friends Who Are Thinking of Me.

Saturday, February 7, 2009

Words to Ponder


I was watching the movie "The Lake House" when Sandra Bullock's character said these words. How simple a question, yet how meaningful they are.
My answer would probably always be....a hug.

Friday, January 30, 2009

A Little Boy Doing Some Good

My son & I had the privilege of meeting a little 7 year old boy, Christopher Cusack, who has been collecting gently used coats for people who need them. The full story is here:

http://www.mycentraljersey.com/article/20090102/NEWS/901020342/0/CRIME

"Christopher's coat collection initially began in December 2007 when he was walking to the bus stop with his coat open and after his mother asked him to zip it closed. When Christopher questioned his mother, she told him that not every child around the world was as fortunate as him to have a coat. Since then, Christopher has donated his own used coats to charity and collects coats from others at his school."

Not only has Christopher come up with this incredibly compassionate idea, he has also helped sort and give the coats out. I asked he how it felt to give someone a coat & his answer was "it makes me happy." Not only did he reach his goal, but he has surpassed it & plans to continue collecting the coats.

How many of us as adults have said we wanted to do something to help others and then let our idea fall by the wayside. I know I have. Sure, I help here & there, but this child actually did it without wanting anything back. A child. Not only is he helping people who really need it, but he is also providing the opportunity for everyone else help.

A child.

Gives me something to think about.

Wednesday, January 28, 2009

What Are We Missing?

A Violinist in the Metro

A man sat at a Metro station in Washington DC and started to play the violin; it was a cold January morning. He played six Bach pieces for about 45 minutes.

During that time, since it was rush hour, it was calculated that thousands of people went through the station, most of them on their way to work.

Three minutes went by and a middle-aged man noticed there was a musician playing. He slowed his pace and stopped for a few seconds and then hurried up to meet his schedule.

A minute later, the violinist received his first dollar tip: a woman threw the money in the till and, without stopping, continued to walk.

A few minutes later, someone leaned against the wall to listen to him, but the man looked at his watch and started to walk again. Clearly he was late for work.

The one who paid the most attention was a 3-year-old boy. His mother tagged him along, hurried, but the kid stopped to look at the violinist. Finally the mother pushed hard and the child continued to walk, turning his head all the time.

This action was repeated by several other children. All the parents, without exception, forced their kids to move on.

In the 45 minutes the musician played, only 6 people stopped and stayed for a while. About 20 gave him money but continued to walk their normal pace. He collected $32. When he finished playing and silence took over, no one noticed it. No one applauded, nor was there any recognition.

No one knew this, but the violinist was Joshua Bell, one of the most renowned musicians in the world. He played one of the most intricate pieces ever written, with a violin worth 3.5 million dollars. Two days before his playing in the subway, Joshua Bell sold out at a theater in Boston where the seats average $100..

This is a real story. Joshua Bell playing incognito in the Metro station was organized by the Washington Post as part of a social experiment about perception, taste and priorities of people.

The outlines were: in a commonplace environment at an inappropriate hour, do we perceive beauty? Do we stop to appreciate it? Do we recognize talent in an unexpected context?

One of the possible conclusions from this experiment could be: If we do not have a moment to stop and listen to one of the best musicians in the world playing the best music ever written, how many other things are we missing?

Friday, January 23, 2009

Two Wolves


Two Wolves

One evening an old Cherokee told his grandson about a battle that goes on inside all people. He said, 'My son, the battle is between two 'wolves' inside us all.

One is Evil. It is anger, envy, jealousy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego.

The other is Good. It is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion and faith.'

The grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked his grandfather: 'Which wolf wins?'

The old Cherokee simply replied, 'The one you feed.'

And Then The Fight Started....

And Then The Fight Started..

My wife sat down on the couch next to me as I was flipping channels. She asked, 'What's on TV?'

I said, 'Dust.'

And then the fight started.

**********

My wife was hinting about what she wanted for our upcoming anniversary. She said, 'I want something shiny that goes from 0 to 150 in about 3 seconds.'

I bought her a scale.

And then the fight started.

**********

When I got home last night, my wife demanded that I take her someplace expensive...
so, I took her to a gas station...

And then the fight started....

**********

After retiring, I went to the Social Security office to apply for Social Security. The woman behind the counter asked me for my driver's license to verify my age. I looked in my pockets and realized I had left my wallet at home.

I told the woman that I was very sorry, but I would have to go home and come back later.

The woman said, 'Unbutton your shirt'. So I opened my shirt revealing my curly silver hair.

She said, 'That silver hair on your chest is proof enough for me' and she processed my Social Security application.

When I got home, I excitedly told my wife about my experience at the Social Security office.

She said, 'you should have dropped your pants. You might have gotten disability, too.'

And then the fight started...

**********

My wife and I were sitting at a table at my high school reunion, and I kept staring at a drunken lady swigging her drink as she sat alone at a nearby table.

My wife asked, ' Do you know her?'

'Yes,' I sighed, 'She's my old girlfriend. I understand she took to drinking right after we split up those many years ago, and I hear she hasn't been sober since.'

'My God!' says my wife, 'who would think a person could go on celebrating that long?'

And then the fight started...

**********

I rear-ended a car this morning. So, there we were alongside the road and slowly the other driver got out of his car.

You know how sometimes you just get soooo stressed and little things just seem funny? Yeah, well I couldn't believe it... he was a DWARF!!!

He stormed over to my car, looked up at me, and shouted, ' I AM NOT HAPPY!'

So, I looked down at him and said, 'Well, then which one are you?'

And then the fight started...


Sunday, December 21, 2008

Dear Santa

Dear Santa,

As you know, many of my friends lost their children this year...babies, toddlers, teens & adults. I have all I need...my children, family, friends, a place to live, clothes to wear and food to eat.

My list this year is for my friends, the parents & families of those children who died. Actually, it is more of a wish. I know there isn't anything that will make their pain go away... except for bringing their children back. I think we all would have done anything to make that happen. I also know that no amount of words, comfort, caring, understanding or love can make it better. Even if just love worked, then a very special someone in my life wouldn't be feeling so lost & broken.

So Santa, my one wish this year is to bring a sense of peace to my friends, for them to know that there are many prayers being said for them and their children & a lot of love surrounding them.

Love Karen

p.s. - I know you can perform Christmas miracles....you brought one to me and I am forever grateful.

Tuesday, December 9, 2008

Johnny Keeps Thinking!

Little Johnny's at it again..... A new teacher was trying to make use of her psychology courses. She started her class by saying, 'Everyone who thinks they're stupid, stand up!' After a few seconds, Little Johnny stood up. The teacher said, 'Do you think you're stupid, Little Johnny?' 'No, ma'am, but I hate to see you standing there all by yourself!'

* * * * * * * * * * *

Little Johnny watched, fascinated, as his mother smoothed cold cream on her face. 'Why do you do that, mommy?' he asked. 'To make myself beautiful,' said his mother, who then began removing the cream with a tissue. 'What's the matter?' asked Little Johnny. 'Giving up?'

* * * * * * * * * * *

The math teacher saw that little Johnny wasn't paying attention in class. She called on him and said, 'Johnny! What are 2 and 4 and 28 and 44?' Little Johnny quickly replied, 'NBC, FOX, ESPN and the Cartoon Network!'

* * * * * * * * * * *

Little Johnny's kindergarten class was on a field trip to their local police station where they saw pictures tacked to a bulletin board of the 10 most wanted criminals. One of the youngsters pointed to a picture and asked if it really was the photo of a wanted person. 'Yes,' said the policeman. 'The detectives want very badly to capture him.'Little Johnny asked, 'Why didn't you keep him when you took his picture ?'

* * * * * * * * * * *

Little Johnny attended a horse auction with his father. He watched as his father moved from horse to horse, running his hands up and down the horse's legs and rump, and chest. After a few minutes, Johnny asked, 'Dad, why are you doing that?' His father replied, 'Because when I'm buying horses,I have to make sure that they are healthy and in good shape before I buy. Johnny, looking worried, said, 'Dad, I think the UPS guy wants to buy Mom .'

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Happy Thanksgiving!

Wishing everyone a wonderful Thanksgiving!

I am truly thankful for my children who make me laugh (most of the time!), my family, friends who helped me through many rough times, a couple of Angels who have given me guidance when I was at a loss of what to do and to a very special person who I am very, very lucky to have in my life!

Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Job Applicant

Below is an actual job application that this 75 year old senior citizen submitted to Walmart in California. They hired him because they thought he was funny......

Name: Kenneth Way (Grumpy Old Bastard)

Sex: Not lately, but I am looking for the right woman (or at least one who will cooperate).

Desired Position: Company President or Vice President. But seriously, whatever's available. If I was in a position to be picky, I wouldn't be applying here in the first place.

Desired Salaray: $185,000 a year plus stock options & a Michael Ovitz style severance package. If that's not possible, make an offer & we can haggle.

Education: Yes

Last Position Held: Target for middle management hositility.

Previous Salary: A lot less than I'm worth.

Most Notable Achievement: My incredible collection of stolen pens & post-it notes.

Reason For Leaving: It sucked.

Hours Available To Work: Any.

Preferred Hours: 1:30-3:30 p.m. Monday, Tuesday & Thursday.

Do You Have Any Special Skills?: Yes, but they're better suited to a more intimate environment.

May We Contact Your Current Employer?: If I had one, would I be here?

Do You Have Any Physical Conditions That Would Prohibit You From Listing Up to 50 lbs.?: Of what?

Do You Have a Car?: I think the more appropriate question here would be "Do you have a car that runs?"

Have You Received Any Special Awards Or Recognition?: I may already be a winner of the Publishers Clearing House Sweepstakes, so they tell me.

Do You Smoke?: On the job - no! On my breaks - yes!

What Would You Like To Be Doing In Five Years?: Living in the Bahamas with a fabulously wealthy dumb sexy blonde supermodel who thinks I'm the greatest thing since sliced bread. Actually, I'd like to be doing that now.

Nearest Relative: 7 miles.

Do You Certify That The Above Is True & Complete To The Best Of Your
Knowledge?: Oh yes, absolutely.

Thursday, November 20, 2008

Don't Judge Too Quickly........

Maybe my sense of humor has become warped, but I thought it was hysterical!


YouTube - Don't judge too quickly - Ameriquest (romantic dinner)

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Dancing with God


Dancing With God

When I meditated on the word Guidance, I kept seeing 'dance' at the end of the word. I remember reading that doing God's will is a lot like dancing. When two people try to lead, nothing feels right. The movement doesn't flow with the music, And everything is quite uncomfortable and jerky. When one person realizes that, and lets the other lead, Both bodies begin to flow with the music.

One gives gentle cues, perhaps with a nudge to the back Or by pressing Lightly in one direction or another. It's as if two become one body, moving beautifully. The dance takes surrender, willingness, And attentiveness from one person And gentle guidance and skill from the other.

My eyes drew back to the word Guidance. When I saw 'G': I thought of God, followed by 'u' and 'I. 'God, 'u' and 'I dance.' God, you, and I dance.

As I lowered my head, I became willing to trust That I would get guidance about my life. Once again, I became willing to let God lead. My prayer for you today is that God's blessings And mercies are upon you on this day and everyday.

May you abide in God, as God abides in you. Dance together with God, trusting God to lead And to guide you through each season of your life.


"For J.....we always seem to "collide" on the outside, but I know in my heart... when all is quiet...when we shut the world out, we melt together. Miss you."

Monday, November 17, 2008

Kids Are Quick

TEACHER: Glenn, how do you spell 'crocodile?'
GLENN: K-R-O-K-O-D-I-A-L'
TEACHER: No, that's wrong
GLENN: Maybe it is wrong, but you asked me how I spell it.

TEACHER: Donald, what is the chemical formula for water?
DONALD: H I J K L M N O.
TEACHER: What are you talking about?
DONALD: Yesterday you said it's H to O.

TEACHER: Winnie, name one important thing we have today that we didn't have ten years ago.
WINNIE: Me!

TEACHER: Glen, why do you always get so dirty?
GLEN: Well, I'm a lot closer to the ground than you are.

TEACHER: Millie, give me a sentence starting with 'I.'
MILLIE: I is..
TEACHER: No, Millie..... Always say, 'I am.'
MILLIE: All right... 'I am the ninth letter of the alphabet.'

TEACHER: George Washington not only chopped down his father's cherry tree, but also admitted it. Now, Louie, do you know why his father didn't punish him?
LOUIS: Because George still had the axe in his hand.

TEACHER: Now, Simon, tell me frankly, do you say prayers before eating?
SIMON: No sir, I don't have to, my Mom is a good cook.

TEACHER: Clyde , your composition on 'My Dog' is exactly the same as your brother's. Did you copy his?
CLYDE : No, sir. It's the same dog.

TEACHER: Harold, what do you call a person who keeps on talking when people are no longer interested?
HAROLD: A teacher

Too Much To Believe

Two touching videos:

http://www.jumpcut.com/view/?id=0DA33AA631BE11DCB635000423CF037A

YouTube - Nick Vujicic-Hong Kong Tour - an incredible story

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Have you ever wondered...............

Have you ever wondered what "pissed off" really looks like?