OT: Today is my sister's birthday: Snap!

Today would have been my sister's, Loretta, 54th birthday. I have rarely mentioned this particular sister. But those of you who know me, know something about her even though you dont know it. She died at the age of 36 of breast cancer. She left a husband and 2 small boys, ages 6 and 10, at the time. She loved to sing and she loved to have fun. She was such a positive person. If she had been alive when I got my surgery, she would have been my second biggest cheerleader (my mom is my first biggest, no joke). And as I sit here thinking about her kids who are now my kids, ages 28 and 24, and how they are handling today, I think about how she would be kicking my azz right now for feeling so negative about life. And I do mean literally kicking my azz! This year has been a crappy year for me. I don't need to go into the details but suffice it to say, it's been really hard to do what comes natural which for me is to be happy. Ya'll know I haven't broken out in song in months! And I haven't exercised in weeks! I don't do resolutions. They don't work for me. I'm just saying to myself ' SNAP OUT OF IT! (Yes, I love the movie, Moonstruck.) Take Care, Monie

Well..I am glad you posted what today means to you. I have been wondering what you have been up to. I have been in a funk all day...not even sure why. "Snap out of it!" is good advice! I wish I had the right words at the right time...so I'll just say, Good to see you, and you have been missed. Heres a song: Belamy Brothers...Let your Love Flow... There's a reason for the sunshine in the sky There's a reason why I'm feelin' so high Must be the season When that lovelight shines all around us So let that feeling grab you deep inside And send you reeling Where your love can't hide And then go stealing through the moonless night With your lover. Just let your love flow Like a mountain stream And let your love grow With the smallest of dreams And let your love show And you know what I mean It's the season Let your love fly Like a bird on a wing And let your love bind you To all living things and Let your love shine And you'll know what I mean That's the reason. There's a reason for the warm sweet nights And there's a reason for the candle lights Must be the season When those love rites shine all around us So let that wonder take you into space And lay you under its loving embrace Just feel the thunder as it warms your face You can't hold back. Just let your love flow...

Thank you! I do like that song. It's in my head now and that's okay cuz the words are so appropriate.

Simone, it's great seeing you here! I also wondered what was going on with you, and was worried. I actually, don't like the whole concept of "NEW YEAR"S!" it makes me think too much, and reflect, and not just about the last year. That's not a good idea for me. I truly understand how you feel, and I'm so sorry about your dear sister. Time helps with grief, but it never really goes away, and I say thank God for memories. Lenora's song, is right on. I hope we ALL have a better 2008!~ We ALWAYS have one thing going for us, hon, it could always be worse. All my best to yor Mom!~

Thank you! My mom is doing fine. Arthritis slows her down but that quick wit is still there, thank the Lord!

Hey Simone! How are you? So happy to see you here too! Kinda love it! Happy B-d to your sister! Happy New Year to you! Today is also mu grandaughter's birthday! She is 14 y.o. WOW! HUGS, CN

You tell your grand-daughter that smart, good people are born on that day!

I've been thinking of you tonight and didn't call because I didn't know if you were up with the chickens or getting some sleep. Personally and professionally, you are a giant of a woman. You set the bar so high for yourself that it might seem difficult to meet all your expectations for yourself. Loretta would have kicked you only enough for you to see the bountiful blessings laid at your feet. I know she's proud of her little sister who became an instant mom and a force of family devotion and care. I hope we can talk soon, but please know I stand with you in remembering Loretta and praying that the positive life force that was hers will continue to reach from the other side and shine upon on those of you making this world a better place. Now SNAP OUT OF IT! (don't make me hunt ya down) Love ya, Frances

Gurrrlllll, I was almost in that perfect sleep mode in spite of the firecrackers going when Ms. Mary calls at midnight with 'Happy New Year's! Now go back to sleep, baby!'

Leave it up to Ms. Mary to think of you as one of the first people she thinks of in the new year! I'm sure she knew you needed that shoulder (and lift up) even if it meant waking you up! See, your sister is still thinking of you, too! Maybe she is trying to kick your azz. You just didn't realize it! Sending hugs your way, Lori