A better National Train Day this year

We love trains – well, Jesse (age 5) and I certainly do – and so last year we were excited about going to National Train Day events going on at the Eugene train station. Unfortunately, we got there too late; everything was over and gone. Actually, the only thing left were some pamphlets and a model train set not yet packed up.

So for this reason, I wanted to get out there for National Train Day as early as possible. This time, it was just Jesse and me going. We got there at a good time; almost everything was still set up. (I guess the mayor left and the music band were gone.) But a lot of the booths and everything were still there, and I was grateful for that.

They had a Chuggington station depot set up for kids and Jesse had fun playing with the Chuggington train set with some other kids. He got a Chuggington toy train, a coloring book, a Chuggington poster and a paper train conductor hat that reads “Junior Conductor.”

We also visited the many booths and checked out a model train set. I even entered a drawing for a chance to win one such model train set. Jesse got a balloon sword, a stuffed toy, a pin, sticker and a whole bunch of other stuff about trains and National Train Day. He even got a free cookie. It was pretty awesome. I joked later on that he made off with some good loot.

It was too bad we did not see an actual train. I had so hoped to take a picture of Jesse wearing that “Future Conductor” hat and standing next to a train. But we had a nice time and everybody was so nice. It was cool to see so many people as excited about trains as we were and there was even a little boy there dressed like a train conductor!

We had such a nice time. Afterward, we got ice cream and then Jesse played with his own train set after we got home. He fell in love with the stuffed toy he got, which of course he named “Amtrak.”

I am glad we had such a great experience for National Train Day this year. We definitely look forward to going back again next year!

Using the Boston Marathon bombing for attention is uncool

Tragedy struck in our country yesterday when two bombs detonated at the scene of the Boston Marathon. What had been a day of excitement and joy shattered into a horrific nightmare as two bombs went off within seconds of each other. Three people died and over 170 people were injured.

Today I wanted to write a poem about what happened -- specifically, to remember those lost that day and to offer my thoughts to those affected by it. I could not write this poem yesterday; I was too stunned when I learned about what happened and would not have been able to write about it. But today I did. First, though, I read all of the articles I could find about it. I watched the videos and looked at the pictures. Had to stop, though, after I started to cry because it all just got to be too much. After I recomposed myself, I wrote the poem.

And I thought that was the last of it. I found out otherwise later on!

First, I'll say that my 11-year-old daughter, Jennifer, does know about what happened yesterday. They were talking about it at her school and I explained it to her.

Now, Jennifer plays an Internet game with her friends. Of course, other people have the option of playing this game, too. It's a very popular game and it's on a reputable site. Well, today, when she was playing the game, she got my attention and told me, "This kid is saying his dad and brother died in the Boston Marathon bombing yesterday."
 
Right after she told me that, alarm bells immediately went off. Something about that wasn't right. I did NOT know for certain if that was true -- in all the articles I'd read, I didn't come across names of those killed -- but this struck me as incorrect somehow. I told Jennifer to be careful. I said she should just say "I'm sorry" then move on. Don't talk to that person. She told me she did but she was also feeling a little sad for that person. I told her, "I don't think he's telling the truth so don't get too close. Just go do other things." She said she would do that.

With that settled, I grabbed my phone and Googled for the names of the people who died in the bombings, hoping that information was out there somewhere. Thankfully, an article came up with the names, and guess what? There was NO father and son among the dead. I knew that there was a little boy who died, but not sure of the others. But there was no father and son.

I went back to where Jennifer sat at the desk and informed her of what I found out. She was confused why someone would do that and I told her some people tell lies on the Internet to get attention or to trick people into sending them money and stuff. My husband and I have told her MANY times not to trust people she doesn't know on the Internet but I guess sometimes she needs the occasional reminder.

I went back to cooking dinner but I was really upset about this. I was shocked someone would use something like a national tragedy to get attention or to have people feel sorry fo him. Or to just deceive others. I was also angry about it. What kind of sicko DOES that??

Later, as we ate dinner, I told my husband about what happened. (He'd been at work.) After I told him, Jennifer asked him why someone would do that.

"Because they're liars," he said.

He went on to say more to her about it but I did not pay attention. I was in my own thoughts, remembering how I'd been angry someone would do that. But, like Jennifer, I could not understand how someone would do such a thing, or even why. Yes, I know there are liars and tricksters and people who deceive others. But it's still hard for me to understand why any person thinks it's perfectly okay to use a horrible tragedy as a way to get attention. It's just wrong. It's so wrong.


Jennifer did speculate that maybe these were two guys who died later. I told her that could be true, but I'd been going through several news sites since this came up and still did not see anything about a father and son who died from their injuries. So it is very likely that what happened at her game today was just someone using this story to get attention. That's pretty pathetic.

If only more people would understand the devastation we feel because of terrible tragedies such as this. The nightmare it causes for all of us. And the devastating loss of a loved one, of a child. Something like this should not be used for selfish reasons or dishonest motives. People who think it's okay to do that should think twice and ask themselves if they think it's worth dishonoring the memory of those who REALLY lost their lives on that day.


NOTE: Since posting this, I have NOT discounted the possibility that maybe that kid was telling the truth. I'm not saying this was indeed a person telling a lie just to get attention but right off the bat, the way it looked to me at that time, this person could not be trusted. I have since come across this article and have considered that perhaps a father and son related to this kid did indeed perish because of the bombing.

To comment or not to comment?

For the most part, I normally don’t comment on news articles that I read online. Sure, I do read other peoples’ comments, but mostly, I don’t have much of anything constructive to add to a discussion. Why waste time commenting with something like “That’s interesting” or “Who gives a flying flip?” It’s just a waste of time and really doesn’t add anything to a discussion.

Today, however, I read an article that I did not agree with. I have been following the story of the New York photographer who took the picture of a man pushed onto the subway tracks seconds before the man was crushed to death. This particular photo was on a recent cover of the New York Post. I have read several articles about this and have also spoken out about it on Twitter. (Nobody really responded to those tweets, so couldn’t get much feedback there.) I read one particular article today that stated the photographer was only acting naturally and that we cannot expect EVERYONE to be a Good Samaritan. And so, pretty much they were saying, “Stop throwing darts at him.”

Now, I am not one to judge people when I don’t know the WHOLE story, but I just didn’t like this deal at all. I disagreed with the article’s message and pretty much pointed out why I was not prepared to “give (the photographer) a break.” On the other hand, I’m not going to judge him or demonize him, either. I just didn’t like the whole thing.

But that’s just me. Just my opinion. And it IS an opinion! Just a comment I was sharing on an article that WELCOMES comments from readers.

Later, I went back to that article to see if other people were saying anything about this topic. There WAS another comment, and something about it just didn’t seem right. This particular person was saying, “Many people who are sitting in the safety and comfort of there [sic] homes are quick to judge unless you are there taking ..or not taking action to save a stranger at great risk to yourself keep your opinions to yourself .”

Wow. Keep my opinions to myself? Really?

First of all, I AM NOT judging the guy. I just said it’s hard to make him out to be a saint given what happened AFTER he took the picture.

Second, I won’t “keep my opinion to myself” when it comes to a web site that ALLOWS people to share their opinions! It’s a free country, you know! It’s called freedom of speech! If I have an opinion, then if I think it would contribute to a discussion, I will SHARE that opinion.

And I encourage everyone ELSE who wants to share their opinions to do so! If you have something to say about a topic, something helpful that adds to the discussion, then by all means, go for it! Share your thoughts. That’s how we create a discussion or debate on things. We share our thoughts and opinions. And I think that people SHOULD be able to share their thoughts and opinions, even if other readers do not agree with it.

I know that posting a comment on the Internet means that people will make snarky comments in return or judge me in some way or another. But I think it’s laughable that someone would advise another person NOT to share their opinions when it comes to a site that WELCOMES opinions!

Or it could be just me. Me and my silly opinions.

No more Twinkies? Say it ain't so!

As busy as things can get, I try to stay updated on the news. I’ll watch news on TV as well as read news stories online. I’m subscribed to a few newsfeeds (among them, CNN), so I read these to find out what’s going on with the world.

That is, when I have TIME.

Recently, I have definitely made time to stay updated on news stories, because one Very Big news story has sent shockwaves across the country: Hostess, the maker of fine treats such as Twinkies, Ding Dongs and Ho Hos, is filing for bankruptcy and will stop making the same delicious delicacies generations of children and adults alike have enjoyed. That’s right: They are liquidating their assets as I type this. Shutting down. And will stop making their sweet treats.

The news left me in shock. No more Twinkies? NOOOO!!!!! Quick, somebody start a “Bring Twinkies Back” campaign!

I don’t think I can live in a world without Twinkies.

Oh, I have such fond memories of chomping down on those delicious, sugary and cream-filled yellow cakes. Yes, I know they’re loaded with sugar and fattening, but when you’re a kid, YOU DON’T CARE! The only thing you do care about is that it’s a Twinkie, that it’s delicious, and that it is YOURS.

It’s not so much sugar addiction or a desire to pack on the pounds that makes me sad over the disappearance of Twinkies ( as well as the Ding Dongs and cupcakes). I am an adult, in my late 30s, and I can tell you I have definitely had my fill of Twinkies in this lifetime. I can live without eating another Twinkie! But it’s just the very DISAPPEARANCE of Twinkies I am sad about. I want Twinkies to stick around! Thinking about them and looking at them bring back such happy childhood memories.

But there’s another reason I don’t want Twinkies to go away: My children. My kids LOVE Twinkies. They have enjoyed them as an occasional treat, and it makes me sad that they will never be able to enjoy them ever again. My daughter, age 11, became very sad when I told her they’re not going to make Twinkies anymore. It’s not like we were shoving them down the kids’ throats; like I said, Twinkies were an occasional treat. But now that they are GONE, as in NO LONGER EXISTING, it’s sad because now she’ll never get to have another Twinkie again. Ever! (Unless I happen to buy a box of Twinkies selling on eBay going for the price of $15 million.) And it’s sad for her because she DID enjoy having them every once in a while.

My youngest, age 5, has had Twinkies, too. Now I’m starting to wonder if, with Twinkies gone, he’ll even remember them at all.

I am sad about the Hostess treats going away, but I’m angry about it, too. The world just really sucks right now. Everybody is losing jobs and nobody can even GET a job. The cost of gas is outrageous. The cost of food is outrageous. People are losing their homes and people are really struggling with health issues because they can’t afford to go to a doctor. And now there won’t be anymore Twinkies! We are losing a lot of things and seeing a lot of businesses we all knew and loved in our childhood fade away into obscurity.

I have to wonder what other cherished foods or beverages are going to go away, too. Is Coca Cola next? Well, if Twinkies can be taken away, Coca Cola will probably be taken away, too.

The Mayans were right, folks. This IS the end of the world!

Rape and unwanted pregnancies

Sometimes I think I really SHOULD take a break from reading the news. Specifically, anything that has to do with politics.

I say that because I think maybe the whole debate over "rape rarely resulting in a pregnancy" has affected me too much. When all that fuss happened and it was in the news, I just shrugged it off like I do most of the stupid ideas politicians throw around. But it turned into a BIG issue and soon everyone everywhere was talking about it. It got to the point where I didn’t so much fume over the idiocy of it all (because, YES, a pregnancy CAN result from a rape! Rape is STILL sex!), I got angry over how men thought they had the power to decide what a woman could and could not do with her body (since all of this had to do with the issue of birth control and abortions).

Well, I really think that was getting to me. Especially after what I read in a book yesterday.

In a book I am currently reading, a woman shared a story of how a man came to her house and told her she was pregnant. He also told her the baby would be a boy. The woman did not know if she was pregnant but, after this, she went to the doctor and he confirmed she was less than a month pregnant. This made me wonder if the woman had been trying to get pregnant – maybe she would have known? But what if she hadn’t been trying? What if she and her husband had not been having intercourse and she was not expecting to get pregnant? What if she had been impregnated without being aware of this?

Well, as a writer, I always wonder such things. “What if, what if.”

Then last night, I had a strange dream. I dreamed about a bunch of women who HAD been impregnated without their consent. Somehow or another, they had been impregnated, and all of them were about to give birth. But something was wrong; the babies weren’t right. The pregnancies had put them at a serious health risk and had made their bodies EXTREMELY sensitive to the touch.

And somehow I knew these babies had been created for the sole purpose of genetic testing. Whoever was in charge of all of this were going to use the babies for research and testing, and that some of them might not live. These people were not there, but the women’s families were with them and supporting them as they cried out in pain before delivery.

That dream was really creepy. But it was scary, too. These women had unwillingly become pregnant. And it made me think of how some women are forced to become pregnant when they don’t want to be pregnant – like through a rape, for example.

I know that some women would choose to abort the pregnancy that resulted from a rape, but not a lot of women would do this. Some of them CAN’T do this. I know I would not do this, but only because I’m pro-life. They say that a child should not be blamed for a rape. It’s not the baby’s fault if it is the result of a rape, and should not be punished by having its life ended. Of course, putting the baby up for adoption is a very good alternative, especially with so many women out there who CAN’T have children but want a baby so desperately.

The dream made me think about that, especially with that issue going on in the news. What happens when a woman is impregnated against her will? Is it better to keep the baby or give it up?

I thought about that a lot today, especially asking myself what I would do. It really is a personal decision. And because I come from a family with siblings from a different father, I would not be against keeping the baby. Some people might think this is a bad idea, because what if the kid grows up to be a rapist like Daddy? Are we able to break that cycle?

As far as I know, I don’t know anyone who is the product of a rape. I know of a fictional someone, though: Olivia Benson of Law & Order:SVU. Then I think about that and how maybe a child who is the result of a rape may actually grow up to be a good person. Maybe we CAN stop the cycle. Stop the damage.

Or, here’s an idea: Get to the root of the problem and make it easier for a woman to avoid becoming pregnant because of a rape. Make it possible for women to ensure that such a thing will not happen to them. I like that idea even better.

Please don’t blame Hollywood for the Colorado shooting

This morning was a bit of chaotic for me. I usually start my mornings off by reading the news, but since I had a doctor appointment this morning, along with some errands to run, I only had so much computer time. I did log in at Twitter to share a link, and I noticed that someone on there was expressing his sadness over “the shooting in Colorado.” (Leave it to Twitter for me to get news!) I saw that and wondered what he meant. Unfortunately, I didn’t have the time to find out. (Double unfortunate that I missed the morning news shows on TV.) (Yes, I am a news junkie! What?) So I spent a good part of the day wondering about that. I grabbed a local newspaper, as well as USA Today, but there wasn’t anything in there about a shooting in Colorado.

Then, finally, in the late afternoon, I was at the desk again, online again, and able to finally read some news lists I am subscribed to. That’s how I found out about the gunman who opened fire at the showing of the movie The Dark Knight Rises in Colorado. As I read that report, I was horrified. I was shocked and saddened. What a terrible tragedy.

I also read that the gunman was dressed as The Joker, the character from the Batman stories. I cringed when I saw that, hoping that there weren’t going to be people saying movies are EVIL because they influence people to commit murder, do drugs, rape women and rob banks. (Do we really NEED another TV show or movie making the bank robbers the good guys or letting them get away??)

Well, when I logged in at Facebook, I saw someone (not on my friends list) saying just that. Movies are EVIL! They are a bad influence on someone stupid enough to be so impressionable that they want to be just like The Joker and shoot up a movie theater.

I could only shake my head when I saw that. That’s such a sad claim to make. That is just not the truth!

It’s the same argument with guns (and you just KNOW the anti-gun crowd are going to start hating on guns because of this, too). Movies don’t kill people; people kill people.

It’s not the movies’ fault.

It’s not Batman’s fault.

It’s not The Joker’s fault.

It’s not Hollywood’s fault.

It is the fault of one person: The guy who started shooting at innocent moviegoers.

Yes, there are people who are fans of TV shows and movies. Some of them are such HUGE fans that they dress up like their favorite characters on the night a movie premieres. But these are NORMAL people. They are not people who are going to think that it’d be fun to shoot up a theater. I mean, seriously. There is a very fine line between fantasy (movies and TV) and reality – reality being a majority of moviegoers and fans who like to dress up as characters and watch their favorite TV shows or movies and who UNDERSTAND it is all fiction. These are people who know the difference between right and wrong, who are not “messed up in the head.” These are regular folks!

On the other hand, there ARE crazy lunatics out there who are going to ruin it for the rest of us. There are messed up people out there who prefer violence, death, murder and chaos over a good time at the movies. They have zero respect for life, zero grasp of reality and zero regret for what they do.

In essence, it is a person or people’s fault for such tragedies, not the movie’s fault. And not Hollywood’s fault, either. Hollywood wants to make movies that entertain. And who doesn’t love Batman? Who doesn’t enjoy a good Batman flick? The Batman movies are fun, exciting, funny and creative. They’re not meant to promote violence and certainly not to promote the evil ways of The Joker.

While Hollywood does make movies that promote violence, it’s not their way of telling moviegoers to pick up a gun and start shooting. Some people dig those violent and gory movies. Some people watch them. And so Hollywood caters to this need.

But don’t condemn Hollywood for that. The next time a movie comes out where there is a villain shooting up people or a bunch of crazy lunatics killing everybody in sight, keep in mind that this is only Hollywood making a movie for that particular audience. It’s not Hollywood saying that we should pick up a gun and start shooting everybody. Hollywood doesn’t do that. People do.

Happy 2012!

A new year is finally here. Yay! And while some good things happened in 2011, there were some sucky things, too. I hope there will be a lot MORE good things in 2012 and not so many sucky things.

I have to pause, though, and think about one thing: Now that it’s 2012, people have just one more year to go all number-crazy. I read about some people who went ALL OUT on 11-11-11. And now we’ll have 12-12-12 this year. We’ve seen people go a bit number-crazy for the past 11 years. In fact, one of my sisters had a baby due on 6-6-6, but she asked her doctor to induce labor so that she could have her baby before 6-6-6. And speaking of that particular date, there is a business here in Eugene that has “666” in its address. That address is on a big sign in front of the building. On June 6, 2006, somebody spray-painted “HELL HERE” underneath the “666” on that sign.

The interesting thing about this being 2012 is that, not too long ago, I read about how some people were suggesting a change to our Gregorian calendar, to add another 13th month. That way, we’ll also get to have 13-13-13 when it’s 2013!

Am I the only one who thinks this numbers craze has gone on long enough?? Good riddance! Please, please don’t add a 13th month just for the sake of having a 13-13-13 next year. That’s just crazy. (And think of all the people who are scared to death of the number 13!) What’s next, adding a 14th month for 2014? And a 15th month for 2015? How far will this insanity go?

Not only did that idea strike me as odd, but think about all of the changes that will have to be made if we did indeed have a 13th month. All the new calendars that would have to be created. Plus all the old 12-month calendars people will then have to get rid of – and while we’d all like to think they’ll be recycled, they could very well end up in the trash. That’s more trash to worry about right there!

Nope, I think we should stick with 12 months. And here we are, at 2012. The very last year of the new millennium we’ll all get to go number-crazy.

But this year, we’ll also see some folks go a little bit “end of the world” crazy, too. After all, there is that popular doomsday date of 12-21-12. The Mayans beat Harold Camp to the punch long ago in scaring up a lot of people to think this year will be the very last for all mankind. And planet Earth.

Should be interesting stuff to watch, and poke fun at.

Happy New Year.

The foodie month of May

Happy Cinco De Mayo!

Before you chow down on that taco or play those maracas, guess what? Cinco De Mayo is not the only day you get to celebrate good food. Come to find out that May seems to be the month that foodies love most, since it somehow or another became a popular month for all things food! As a matter of fact, May 5th is also known as National Hoagie Day!

The entire month of May is also known as National Hamburger Month. National Hamburger Day is supposed to be on May 28th, though other sources place it in June and December. Well, this being National Hamburger Month, it's only appropriate to celebrate National Hamburger Day on May 28th. Which is what I plan to do. Woot!

And since we're all gonna be eating hamburgers, why not put them on the grill while we're at it? May is also National Barbecue Month. As a fan of barbecued food, I give that two thumbs up! Hooray!

But don't let your taste buds stop there, because there are actually HEALTHY foods you can celebrate eating during the month of May. May is also National Salad Month and National Egg Month! Cobb Salad, anyone?

And after you've had your burger and salad, why not round your meal out with a yummy dessert? May is also National Chocolate Custard Month!

National Raisin Week is from May 1-7th. Hm, that probably explains why I've downed so much Raisin Bran this week.

National Candied Orange Peel Day was on May 4th.

Enjoy your favorite beverage on May 6th, because it's National Beverage Day! Want a suggested beverage? Enjoy a Coca-Cola, because May 8th is Have a Coke Day!

If you're a savvy chef, then grab your cooking tools, because May 7th is National Roast Leg of Lamb Day!

If you're not so savvy, take heart! May 15th is National Chocolate Chip Day! So why not grab a pack of chocolate chip cookie dough or whip up a chocolate chip cookie cake to enjoy!

On May 24th, you have a very good excuse to host a party, because that particular date is National Escargot Day!

And to round the "foodie month" out, take the time to enjoy something sweet on May 31st, because it's National Macaroon Day!

Yay, food!

World AIDS Day

This morning, I discovered that today, December 1st, is World AIDS Day.

I have never known anyone who is HIV-positive or diagnosed with AIDS. However, I have been aware of the many myths spread about how you can catch AIDS.

As a teenager, I once had a boyfriend who was a few years older than me. My father was aware that this young man had "been around the block" with many girls. He warned me against kissing him, saying that the AIDS virus travels through saliva.

This is just one myth about people who have HIV or develop AIDS. You can't catch AIDS from kissing someone who has it.

Another myth I was exposed to was how swimming in the same pool as someone with AIDS was risky, because you could catch it while in the pool. (There was even a big fuss over this at a public pool.)

Yet another myth was that only homosexuals could catch AIDS. One friend of mine even commented how her boyfriend couldn't possibly have AIDS because he wasn't gay. Wrong!

Both homosexual and heterosexual people can catch AIDS. Even bisexual people can get it. AIDS does not pick and choose among race, religion, age or sexual preference.

Sadly, I once read this article about a woman in Africa who was HIV-positive and she received heavy prenatal care and assistance to help her deliver a fully healthy baby that was HIV-negative. Unfortunately, because of tradition, her family forced her to breastfeed her baby, despite doctors warning her not to do this because the virus can travel through her breast milk. She eventually gave in to their pressure to breastfeed. Sadly, her baby developed AIDS and died. (I was not only saddened by this but also infuriated. A human life is MORE important than some stupid tradition!)

Some other myths about AIDS I have heard of are:

--You can only catch AIDS from a hypodermic needle.

--Someone who is HIV-positive is the same as someone who has AIDS.

--Someone diagnosed with AIDS will definitely die from it. (A lot of progress in medicine has helped many people diagnosed with AIDS lead long and healthy lives.)

I am glad there is a World AIDS Day. It needs to be talked about and researched more openly to avoid the spread of all the myths about it.

Sales of Invicibelle Spirit raises funds for fight against breast cancer

Spring Meadow Nursery has partnered with the Breast Cancer Research Foundation to raise $1 million for breast cancer research. To reach our goal, we developed the first ever pink anabelle hydrangea called Invincibelle® Spirit, which donates $1 to the BCRF for every plant sold. This hardy and heat tolerant hydrangea blooms reliably each year, and is named in honor of the brave women fighting breast cancer. Like these women, it is strong and will survive and thrive for years to come.

For more information on our campaign, please visit http://www.invincibellespirit.net/

Invincibelle® Spirit is included on the pink products page of the BCRF web site pink products & programs page.


Contact:

Kathy Garfield
Marketing Specialist
Spring Meadow Nursery, Inc.
12601 120th Ave.
Grand Haven, MI 49417
(616) 846-4729, ext 1204
www.invincibellespirit.net

10 Cost-Free Ways to Participate in National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

You don't have to break the bank to participate in National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. While there are organizations out there who will definitely benefit from any and all fundraising efforts, people who just can't financially help can still do something special in honor of this month. Below are ten no-cost things you can do to participate and still be a part of breast cancer awareness.

1. Volunteer at a cancer support group or center.

2. Join a network of breast cancer survivors and befriend someone and just talk.

3. Wear pink! Even better, something with a pink ribbon on it. Or wear a pink ribbon in your hair.

4. Read a book about breast cancer. Stay informed!

5. Create a sign, card or collage that honors someone you know who has lost their battle with or survived breast cancer.

6. Write a blog series on breast cancer awareness!

7. Encourage your friends and family to learn about breast cancer.

8. Write something that shows why you are glad we have a "breast cancer awareness month."

9. Spread the word about charities who are helping people struggling with breast cancer or a survivors network.

10. Decorate your Web site or page with pink and/or add something which reminds visitors that it's National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Add links to charities and foundations or videos of breast cancer survivors sharing their stories, if you'd like.


Personal message from Dawn: Happy Birthday, Jesse! Hard to believe you are now 2 years old! The years go by so fast! We all love you so much and I feel so blessed you are in my life, sweet baby.

Pink Ribbon Breakfast

The next time you eat breakfast, why not do so for a worthy cause? National Pink Ribbon Day is on Monday, October 26th, and this is also the day hundreds will be holding a "Pink Ribbon Breakfast."

The National Breast Cancer Foundation has come up with the Pink Ribbon Breakfast. The Pink Ribbon Breakfast is just one more way to raise funds for and promote breast cancer awareness. It was started in Australia but anyone overseas can participate.

Find out more about it here:
Pink Ribbon Breakfast

The Avon Crusade Tote

Every year, the national cosmetics retailer, Avon, Inc., creates specials and events to benefit breast cancer research and awareness. One of the things they are doing this year is offering the very nifty and pretty Avon Crusade Tote. Designed by Maimekko, this handy tote can be yours for only $10. So why not buy a new bag for a cause?

The new Avon Crusade Tote is only $10 and 100% of the net profits will be donated to the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade.

Check it out here: Avon Crusade Tote

Breast Cancer Awareness Fundraiser and drawing

The Web site Temptalia.com is holding a Breast Cancer Awareness Fundraiser for October. Last year, they were able to raise $1,180 to go to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. This year, they hope to raise $2,000, which will go to The Breast Cancer Research Fund.

To encourage donations from visitors, for every $5 donated, you will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win a variety of make-up and beauty products. There will be eight winners total.

To find out more, visit their site:
Breast Cancer Awareness 2009 Fundraiser

More events and specials honoring Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Here are more events, opportunities and specials taking place during October in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This list is not exhaustive. More will be added in future blog posts. Happy shopping and participating!



The radio station WRVQ Q94.5 (Richmond, Virginia) is partnering with the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation for the 3rd Annual "Q94 Bras on Broad!" for the month of October. They are collecting bras and for every bra collected, they will donate $1 to the Foundation. On October 23rd, all bras donated will be stretched out along Broad Street.
The 3rd Annual Q94 Bras On Broad



In honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Save-A-Lot has partnered with the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation and donated $100,000 towards the fight against breast cancer. In recognition of this and to promote the occasion, NASCAR has created a special pink race car with the Save-A-Lot brand. Additionally, you can purchase a special pink reusable bag at any Save-A-Lot store for only 99 cents.
Save-A-Lot joins fight for breast cancer awareness



Darphin, a skin care company, will donate $20 from each sale of Arovita C Energic Firming Cream to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation.
Darphin.com



When you buy Boscia Rose Blotting Linens, a portion of the purchase will go towards breast cancer research.



"American Airlines and American Eagle employees are joining forces throughout October to do their part in the fight against breast cancer. Among the activities scheduled in celebration of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, American and American Eagle are encouraging their nearly 90,000 employees to "think pink" as they participate in the Susan G. Komen for the Cure(®) program Passionately Pink for the Cure(®) on Friday, Oct. 16." Among the ways the airlines are participating is by offering pink menus and any item purchased off of these menus will result in a 10% donation towards breast cancer research. "American kicked off its month-long observance last week with a special gift card offer: during October, when customers purchase an American Airlines Gift Card and specify Komen as the beneficiary, American will donate $5 to Susan G. Komen for the Cure for every $50 of travel purchased via the gift card. To purchase gift cards and support Susan G. Komen for the Cure, consumers can go to AA.com/giftcard. When completing payment information, "Komen" must be entered in the tracking code box in order for the donation to be made. Gift cards must be purchased by Oct. 31 for the 10 percent donation to be made to Komen, and it applies only to online purchases." Read all about all of their specials and programs here: American Airlines Celebrates National Breast Cancer Awareness Month



The Web site, ShopAtHome.com, is also participating in Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Go to this page and click on a retailer to shop from. With every purchase made through that click, they will donate $1 to breast cancer charities.


In honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the company, TeleBrands, has created a special Limited Edition Pink PedEgg decorated with the universally recognized pink ribbon. You can purchase it for $10 at this site and it is available only for a limited time. The company is donating $50,000 of sales of this PedEgg to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure T-shirt Design Contest

Do you have an artistic side?

The Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation is holding a contest! They are soliciting submissions of designs for their newest T-shirt, which will be worn by hundreds of participants in next year's Race For the Cure. The deadline to enter is November 8, 2009.

Read all about it here: It's All About the Shirt!

Businesses supporting breast cancer research and NBCAM

The following is a list of just some businesses and corporations which are taking steps to support breast cancer awareness and breast cancer research as part of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I will include more later.

For the entire month of October, Hungry Howie's Pizza will be using pink boxes for their pizzas, complete with a pink ribbon on each box. And for every pizza ordered, they will make a donation to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc. This will take place at every Hungry Howie's Pizza location. You can find a location of a Hungry Howie's Pizza at their Web site: Hungry Howie's Pizza



Breath of the Dragon, which creates unique and custom wood burning designs, has an inventory of breast cancer awareness items specifically created in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. A portion of the sales will be donated to a local women's resource center. You can check it all out here: Breath of the Dragon



For the month of October, Target is selling pink ribbons in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. For every ribbon sold, they are donating to breast cancer charities. Likewise, a New York-based Target is all pink for October, donating 100% of proceeds from sales to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. There are other merchandise available specifically for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. You can buy from them in stores or at their Web site: Breast Cancer Awareness items



Bornstein Seafoods is selling pink salmon decorated in pink cans and wrappings in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The seafood company's co-owner, Sharyn Bornstein, is a breast cancer survivor. For every can sold, they will donate $1 to the National Breast Cancer Foundation. Find a location on their Web site: Bornstein Seafoods



Olive Juice, a company that sells children's clothing, is also donating to the cause. The company's founder, Maryellen Kane, knows the pain associated with breast cancer: She watched her mother battle breast cancer for years. For Breast Cancer Awareness Month, they are donating $1 for every purchase made to Cuddle My Kids, a company that helps families affected by cancer. Visit them on the Web here: Olive Juice



The company Exygon Health and Fitness teamed up with CYBEX International by installing pink treadmills in their offices. for every mile ran on the treadmills, they are donating 10 cents to breast cancer research organizations. Here is their site: SETCHomepage.com



When you buy a Hobo International pink clutch bag, the company will donate 25% of proceeds to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. Find out more here: Hobo International Jolie Cosmetics Bag

Susan G. Komen for the Cure event: "On Track for a Cause"

Tonight at 10 p.m. EST there will be an event benefiting breast cancer awareness.

Here are the details:

Susan G. Komen for the Cure cordially invites you to get "On Track for a Cause" to support the fight against breast cancer.

Hosted by Indy Race Car Sensation Sarah Fisher and Danny Wood of New Kids on the Block.

Pink carpet begins at 10 p.m.
LIV Nighclub, Miami Beach
Sounds by Ross One

Tickets:

Susan G. Komen for the Cure invite you to "On Track For a Cause"

Host: Betty Wood Breast Cancer Foundation
Type: Causes - Fundraiser
Start Time: Thursday, October 8, 2009 at 10:00pm
End Time: Friday, October 9, 2009 at 2:00am
Location:
LIV Nightclub
4441 Collins Avenue
Miami Beach, FL

October events for Breast Cancer Awareness Month

What: Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure
Who: Open to the public
When: All October
Where:" National, check the site for races planned in your area
http://ww5.komen.org/default.aspx



What: Global Breast Cancer Conference
Who: "This conference aims to bring together scientists, researchers, healthcare providers, advocacy groups, and policymakers to increase global awareness of breast cancer, enhance a better understanding of the disease and its medical treatments, and improve the quality of life of breast cancer patients."
When: October 8-10
Where: Sheraton Grande Walkerhill, Seoul, Korea
http://www.gbcc.kr/01about/about_01b.htm



What: Breast Cancer 3-Day Walk
Who: Open to the public
When: Various dates through October
Where: National, check the site for walks planned in your area
http://www.the3day.org/site/PageServer?pagename=homepage



What: Avon Walk for Breast Cancer
Who: Open to the public
When: October 10-11
Where: New York
http://walk.avonfoundation.org/site/PageServer?pagename=walk_homepage



What: National Mammography Day
Who: Open to the public
When: October 15
Where: National
http://www.nypcancerprevention.com/issue/4/con_cal/oct/national-mammography-day.shtml



What: Ride to Empower
Who: Open to the public
When: October 22-25
Where: Red Rock, Nevada
http://ride.networkofstrength.org/page.aspx?pid=889

Rambling

I have wanted to update this blog all day. But I haven't been able to think about just ONE THING to blog about. Too many thoughts are running around in my head. So here we go:

1. I was pretty irritated over a newspaper story I read this week. Apparently, a couple in a neighboring city are suing Deere and Co. for being "negligent" after a mower ended up mutilating their daughter, who was 2 at the time of the accident (she is now 6). I remember reading this story when it happened. I was shocked! The little girl was behind her dad when he was mowing the yard. He didn't know she was there, backed up over her, and she lost a leg. At the time, it was tragic. But now I'm angry they are suing the Deere people. I mean, EXCUSE ME?? They are not supposed to be the ones WATCHING your kids while someone's mowing your yard! Wasn't anybody watching that little girl?? It was not Deere's fault. it was the PARENT'S fault for NOT keeping an eye on her child! OK, I know I'm probably getting too huffy over this. It just REALLY bugs me when people don't watch their kids when they're supposed to, and they want to blame somebody else when tragedy strikes. I wonder if the mother who's son drowned in the pool after he crawled out through the pet door is suing whoever made those pet doors?? Or the mom suing the manufacturer of a mattress that suffocated her child to death after another child sat on the mattress and buried his face? Or the mom whose child was killed after being ran over by a car driven by her older sister after standing behind the car as the sister backed out is going to sue the car maker?? Grr!! Parents, WATCH YOUR CHILDREN! Even if it means the pot of water will boil over or something will fall and break. A child's life and safety is more important than that!

2. On a lesser emotional note, Jennifer has a spelling test tomorrow. She has been having trouble with one word in particular. I have been working with her all week on spelling her words correctly and especially with that word: "excited." She kept spelling it with an "s" instead of "c" and I kept telling her, "There is no 's' in 'excited.'" Today, she has finally mastered how to spell that word! Hooray! She kept spelling it over and over, getting it right every time. I didn't grow tired of that! We'll see how she does on her test tomorrow.

3. This week, I read the short story "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" by Washington Irving. I was reading it as a reference for the RGT book (since Sleepy Hollow IS in it!) but, I tell you, it was very, very hard to read that story. Ugh! The writing was not exactly the best. Well, it was okay, but...not exactly the way a story should be written. It is the perfect example of a story that is being told and not shown (remember the "show, don't tell" rule!). If I was an editor at a magazine and Mr. Irving submitted his story to me, I would strongly suggest he revise it. I would not reject it, because it is a good story and there's potential there, but I would ask for a revision. Anyway, it took a few days to FORCE myself to read through the story. I'm glad I did but it was certainly not what I remembered reading of that story in high school. Maybe what I read in school was an adaptation of this story. And I must say, the movie is good, too!

4. My hip has REALLY been hurting a lot this week. Maybe that's good because it means I can sit down to write more, but it's not so good when I gotta chase after kids or clean the house. I really need to get it looked at ASAP. It's on the left side and when it hurts really bad, I end up limping a little.

5. Jennifer has missed karate again this week. Sigh. She's missed so many classes, I am beginning to wonder if we should even continue to pay for it.

6. This week, Jesse said grace with us for the first time. Woot! It was really neat. I guess he saw us folding our hands together over our plates so much that he figured that was the thing to do. One evening, as I was serving the children their dinners, I noticed that Jesse folded his hands together in prayer. I told Jennifer and we decided to grab that moment and say grace. After we were done, he unfolded his hands. Jennifer looked at me and said, "Jesse prayed!" Well, probably not...but it's a neat idea to think about.

7. I have lost motivation to do my morning aerobic workouts. Even after losing weight on my diet and a pair of my pants getting too big for me to wear anymore. I am not thrilled by this; I WANT to continue the workouts because they are a huge mood-booster and they help me get into shape. I've grown weary of being out of shape. Hopefully, I will find some way to get that motivation to work out again. Honestly, I have been contemplating professional competition as an athlete, with running. I would like to do that someday. Run in races. And I know I need to keep that motivation to work out and start running again in order to make that happen. First, I have to figure out how to make room for that is my disorganized life!