Category Archives: Inspirational

Thomas Jefferson, Book love & The Magic

“I cannot live without books…”
– Thomas Jefferson

One of our many “Adventures” took us to Thomas Jefferson’s estate, Monticello, in Charlottesville, Virginia. 

A lawyer, architect, writer, farmer, scientist, author of the Declaration of Independence, third President of the United States, founder of the University of Virginia… he was quite the accomplished gentleman of the times – April 2, 1743 – July 4, 1826.

An intriguing, amazing, having “history come alive” journey, not just for your children or grandchildren in our case, but for people of all ages.  

Known for many quotes, directly from their website – Monticello.org… There’s an entire searchable collection of his quotes available for ones reference as well as on the premises of Monticello where you can enjoy delving into the brilliance of this man through his own words.  

While we were there, I came across one particular quote that resonated with me. That little gem can be found on my desk in my home office.  And…, yes…, it is surrounded by a plethora of books of many subjects, sizes & shapes!  🥰

You may find a “few” collections not only in my office but throughout our home.  Our book collection includes… the classics, books on education, children’s books, art books, novels, cookbooks (yes, I do enjoy reading them!), biographies, religion & spirituality… to name a few.  

But, I digress… I wanted to share a book someone recommended to me recently: “The Magic” by Rhonda Byrne. If you don’t know who Rhonda Byrne is, click here for Google results or look her up on Wikipedia. She’s  known as the author of the New Thought books — The Secret [as well as the film], The Power, The Magic, The Hero…)

Her book, “The Magic,” shares with the reader, the power of gratitude, giving thanks, appreciating & counting ones blessings.  It is a 28 day journey in unearthing & acknowledging the joy in ones life.

The book is an easy read that leads you to reflect on your life & to appreciate each & every day that you experience! If you know my “story,” you know that my my family & I have come to understand this “power” for many years now.  We certainly have learned – to “count our blessings” each and every day.  

So… Does one of my favorite quotes resonate with you too?  

If it does… pick up a copy of “The Magic” on Amazon here. Let us know in the comments section below what book(s) you are currently reading that you may want to share with us!  We would be grateful for, give thanks, appreciate & count our blessings to hear your suggestions! 😉❤️

Adult Adventure – "A Good Day" – Reflection & Gratitude

We posted a wonderful video clip yesterday – It brings tears to my eyes!

Tears of Joy, Love & Gratitude! I’m posting it again here:

“A Good Day” with Brother David Steindl-Rast, Benedictine Monk
Please take the time to view it…. once, twice….. daily perhaps.

Words I chose to reflect on from the clip: (Mom)

Today is a Gift to me!

I need to be – opening my eyes to see…

  • the colors
  • the sky
  • the weather
  • the faces… their stories.

I need to be – Opening my heart and “drink”….

the life-giving water and the gifts around me – civilization gifts!

I need to be – Opening my heart to all these blessings…

and to bring MY Blessings to others…

  • My Eyes…..
  • My Smile…..
  • My Touch…..
  • My Presence…..

I need to – let My Gratefulness overflow into Blessings all around me….

You may know or recall – I experienced a near death, “Widow Maker” heart attack April 21, 2008 in the limousine after the funeral mass of my dear mother and friend. It’s approaching 5 years now and each and every day…

I AM…. grateful for my “Gift!” —- Of another day!

Yesterday, discovering that video clip, I decided to explore our property and photograph some proof of the “emerging spring” here in Pennsylvania! I do hope you enjoy them!

Forsythias starting their regrowth for Spring!
Yellow crocuses with Star of Bethlehem plants peeking out!
Daffodils start to emerge!
Day Lilies breaking free!
Hyacinths springing out!
Magnolia buds reaching to the Heavens from Nikki’s House!

Have “A Good Day!” Appreciate and Share Your Blessings… Today!

Victor Borge ~ Phonetic Punctuation Fun!

Victor Borge….Phonetic Punctuation!

What a talented Comedian and Pianist! Victor Borge was born January 3, 1909 (A Belated Happy Birthday Sir!)! He had an amazing life that was lived to the fullest right up until the end on December 23, 2000 where he passed while sleeping peacefully after a performance in Denmark!

God Bless Him!

Sharing his talents with the world until the end!

You can read more in the excerpt below from Biography.com

Got this great picture from http://www.last.fm/music/Victor+Borge

Initially a concert musician, Victor Borge soon developed a style that combined comedy with classical music. In 1940 he immigrated to the U.S., where he achieved fame appearing in various venues, including radio, films, concert halls, Broadway and TV. Though he performed with many of the world’s leading orchestras, his pianistic talent was often overshadowed by his humor.

© 2013 A+E Networks. All rights reserved.

Be sure to check out more detailed information on Victor Borge‘s wonderful life at Wikipedia! A talent that will be missed for times to come! Be sure to share Victor Borge‘s talents with your children and grandchildren!

 

God and your Life!

Have you ever thought….

Why am I here???
Why isn’t God helping me???
Why did that happen to me???
Why is God Punishing ME???

In high school, I had a very rough senior year…One of those teenager things where all your “friends” turn on you and leave you like the drop of a hat! I have always felt blessed and connected to God and I needed him then, I spent most of my free time in the chapel at school…
just talking with God!

I cried….
I prayed….
I thought a lot of the things I mentioned above…
But, you know what…

God answered my prayers/questions in a different way…

He showed me who my true friends were and still are today!!! The ones that leave you in the dust do grow up eventually…but do you really need them? No, You have the ones who have been there for you through thick and thin!!! Friends come and go, but true ones never leave!!! ❤

❤ And I was fortunate to Marry my Best Friend!!! ❤