Happiness is Watching Your Child Succeed, Part 2

I am so excited!  My oldest son got engaged last weekend to a wonderful young woman who makes him very happy. In the improbable manner of the world, Justin (from Cleveland) met Katie (from Pittsburgh) while they were attending a Second City Improv workshop (in Chicago) two summers ago.  Apparently it was love at first sight. … Read more

Happiness is Seeing Your Child Succeed

Last week I was privileged to attend Kent State University’s annual Student Awards night.  At this event the university recognizes the accomplishments of its many student leaders and student organizations; it also serves as the transition point for all Undergraduate Student Government (USG) positions. During the past school year our youngest son, Jared, was a … Read more

The Choices You Choose

Michael J Fox has been in the media a lot.  He’s written a new book and is doing a promotional tour.  You may recall that he walked away from acting many years ago when he went public with his battle with early-onset Parkinson’s disease.  He’s since become an activist for stem-cell research into neurological disorders. … Read more

Happiness is Making Do With What You Have

It is a gray, dreary day.  Neither of us wants to grocery shop in the rain.  Yet, we must eat something. On the counter we assemble all the fresh food remaining in the house: 1 lb of carrots 3 large yams 4 overripe tomatoes 1/2 pint of mushrooms 1/2 bag of frozen corn 2 apples … Read more

Happiness is Standing On My Head

I finally did it!  After months of  practice and preparation, I finally managed to execute a full headstand! OK, I could only hold it for a few seconds, but this was HUGE for me.  I’ve had to overcome my fear of falling as well as the “story” I told myself about how I “can’t” balance … Read more

There Are Other Places To Sing

A reader sent me this story as a response my post on Saying Goodbye.  I teared up as I read it, and now pass it along to you.  My Aunt Corrine passed on last Friday evening — she’s now singing in a different place. I hope you enjoy it. THE OLD PHONE When I was … Read more

We Might As Well Dance

Someone sent me this lovely poem and I so want to pass it on.  A fabulous Thought for the Day: Life is short. Break the rules.  Forgive quickly. Kiss slowly.  Love truly. Laugh uncontrollably. And never regret anything that made you smile. Life may not be the party we hoped for, but while we are … Read more

Saying Goodbye is part of life

My dear Aunt Corrine (my Mom’s only sibling) was diagnosed w/ a brain cancer in Feb 2007, and had endured many ordeals since.  Throughout the battle w/ cancer, the family insisted she remain in her home, and they marshalled family and friends for around the clock care for two whole years. Aunt Corrine proved VERY … Read more