Sing. . .Sing a Song!

 "A bird doesn't sing because it has an answer. It sings because it has a song." L. Holtz

I was reminded this morning of that quote when I went for a little autumnal jog. Sounds odd, an "autumnal jog," but I am so enjoying this seasonal weather, the morning run felt like that Dogwood Trail again, brisk, crisp and happy. And I could hear the geese making their way out of here because, supposedly, it's getting bitterly cold at some point. And they were so loud. Sounded so excited! And I laughed--gosh, do they know something I don't?! They're singing, not because they have to, but because they want to. Oh, to be a bird!

And my children. These past few weeks have been such fun. From collecting pumpkins to picking apples to finding JUICY caterpillars and making first tackles in 8th grade football. It's been happy.

 Does your face light up when you see your kids? I heard Maya Angelou ask that question once. Does your face register how you feel inside? Do they know, from your expression, that they are worthwhile and loved? It's such a simple thing, such a quick, fleeting little "hello." But doesn't it make all the difference? I think we can each remember how our mothers made us feel. I can remember how my mom made me feel special, really special, just by how she'd look at me when I walked in from a late night dance class. She really looked happy to see me, and I can remember feeling surprised! Gosh, I didn't know I mattered that much to her that my "hey, Mom" would make her happy! Though the moment was so short and the feeling brief, I knew she loved me and I knew I was worth it. Do I show my kids they're worth it? Do they know I love them just as they are, even when they don't brush their teeth for days (Jacob) or hole up in their room and only come down for feeding times (Nick) or break a figurine because it doesn't survive a quarterback-like pitch down the kitchen (Ellie)? I hope so. Because I do.

Manners Lesson

 The entire state of New Jersey is invited! Please come to my class, White Gloves and Party Manners. All are invited. I cannot wait to see you. Here is what you will learn:

1--No, absolutely, no, flipping off at ladies. Ever. Under any circumstances. Especially when they have the right of way when driving. You should be a gentleman at all times, yielding to them even when they are idiots (see Rhett Butler).

2--No accelerating to cut off other people. When merging, you should yield to other traffic. Not because you want to, but because it is the NICE thing to do.

3--No F%*# words. Ever. Especially in the grocery store. I heard one dropped the other day, followed by "she is such a bitch." What? In the grocery store? You need to wash your mouth out with soap (will be provided at class) and take a sugar pill. Your life is not difficult or complicated (see Somalia or Kenya for examples there).

4--When there is a lady behind in you line, and she's holding a baby, a gallon of milk and a cup of coffee (during a state-wide power outage because of a natural DISASTER), and another line opens up in this packed gas station check out, let her go first. Do not, I repeat, do not, cut in front of her to get to the register first. That. Is. Rude. And makes that gallon feel like a small elephant.

You know when you feel like you've been behind an 18-wheeler all day, going 17 mph? That's been today. I've just been stuck.

"Take a broader look at your life and recognize that you are a spiritual being having a human experience."