A Triple Treat of Words

Photo Credit:  Moonlightway from morgueFile.com

It’s May.  Finally!  April had like 900 days in it, right?  A special day is coming up, ladies!  Mom, mum, mother, mommy, momma, ma, madre…whatever you like to call her…it’s Mother’s Day this Sunday.  Woohoo!

This Mother’s Day might look a little different because of The Rona.  Heck, your mom might even look a little different this Mother’s Day.  Ha ha!  You know, it’s been almost two months without a hair salon, mani-pedi, or shopping.  But!  We love our mommies!  No matter what!

Some moms enjoy flowers, wine, chocolate, jewelry, new clothes, and a nice meal.  Yes, I love all of those things!  However, my love language is certainly words.  My children know that I adore words.  So, this Mother’s Day, I’ve been blessed with three beautiful poems that my kiddos wrote.  I want to share them with you today.  It’s a triple treat for me!

My Son’s Mother’s Day Poem

Her voice is very calm and worry free,

Very collective, just like me.

She can laugh unpredictably, even in a crowd,

When she does laugh; it’s very loud.

Yet, I am still very proud.

She smiles in happy times and tries to in sad,

Which will ease anyone from their worries,

Making them feel glad.

Her smile, shining so bright,

Sometimes, it is my only light.

The hair upon her head is long and brown,

Which will make you do anything but frown.

Her eyes twinkle like stars,

And shine like brand new cars.

She has teeth that are sparkling, shiny, and bright,

Not to mention they are a pearly white.

She’ll embrace you in a hug that’s warm and tight,

That would make anyone love her with all their might.

The jokes she eagerly tells,

Are so funny, never punny; they’ll put you under a spell.

She is gifted with a bounty of knowledge and smarts,

Showing them off, using all her brain parts.

The clothes she wears are unique and bright,

Making her such a beautiful sight,

Once again, making anyone love her with all their might!

My Older Daughter’s Mother’s Day Poem

Mothers truly are,

The best blessing by far.

In everything that they do,

To always help you.

Mothers help you with school,

And every other rule.

That you need to learn,

In order to yearn.

Rules for life when things get sticky,

And also for when we kids get picky.

But moms always know what’s right,

Even when things get tight.

And when life feels kind of rough,

Mothers will only get more tough.

They support us in all that we do,

And for that, we thank you.

Sometimes their love can be hard to hear,

But that’s when you know they’re being dear.

Through the thicks and thins,

Through the losses and wins.

They help you succeed in all that you do,

Just because they truly love you.

Mothers always know what is best,

Even if the answer is as simple as rest.

We love you, Mom, more than it may seem,

You are the sunshine in our beam.

You always know the rights and wrongs,

Your words are like beautiful songs.

Even though we fuss, argue, and fight,

Know that you’ll always be our light.

That shows us the way,

Through everything you say.

Your inspiration is like a shooting star,

Or a lightning bug in a jar.

You’re the one that brightens our day,

Even when things may get in our way.

So open your heart and your ears,

And let’s all give some cheers.

For mothers this year and every day,

May God bless you in a special way!

My Younger Daughter’s Mother’s Day Poem

Thank you for everything you do,

I really appreciate you.

You are the best mom I could ever ask for,

I want nothing more.

I am so grateful for you,

A cow goes moo.

(Sorry, I couldn’t think of anything that rhymes with you)

(I still can’t...so...Moo!)

Anyway, I love you more than you know,

And you always go with the flow.

About what we’re going to do,

Even though you’re sometimes cuckoo!

You make me laugh all day long,

Even when there’s something wrong.

I know I don’t say thank you enough,

And sometimes, on me, you’re a little rough.

But I love you so much,

(That may change if you don’t feed me candy and such!!)

Love, Your favorite child (I am just kidding or…am I?)

Yes, my heart is full indeed.

Whatever your love language is…I hope your children give you a triple treat of it on Mother’s Day!

For all the sweet moms who have died and for all the precious mommas who are sick…I’m praying for you.  For all those beautiful women in our lives who are just like moms to us…I thank God for you!  For mommies everywhere…you’re awesome and you rock!  For our beautiful Mother Mary, I can’t thank you enough for being Jesus’ mom and our mom, too!

I’m heading back to work, Sunshines, so I’ll take a little break from writing again.  However, let’s continue to keep each other in prayer as we navigate this Corona Journey.  Bye for now!

Time For A Rona Rhyme

My Son's Paper Flower Bouquet!

One of my son’s school projects was to create a flower arrangement with flowers made of paper.  Now, my son is a huge fisherman, so I can see him making paper fish maybe, but, paper flowers?  Hmmm.  He’s the type of guy that could easily wear a T-shirt that says, “I might look like I’m listening, but in my head…I’m fishing.”

During this quarantine, he and I have actually had quite a few talks about fishing.  I even have dreams about fishing now.  In fact, last week, I dreamed that I caught a record-breaking grouper.  It was gigantic!  Guess what I caught it with?  Chocolate.  Yes, fishermen, listen up…you might be on to something if you start using chocolate for bait!  Ha ha!

Anyway, in between my son watching videos on how to fly-fish, which rods and reels are best, and secret fishing “honey-holes”…he needed to sit down, focus, and create a floral masterpiece…from paper.  And, he did it!  Wow!  He sure did!  I was so impressed with his finished product.  My girls jumped in on the fun and helped to make some, too.  My children never cease to amaze me!

My ten-year-old daughter then grabbed an old magazine, cut out one of the pages, and made a beautiful flower for her recycled project, following her brother’s lead.  It was inspiring to see something so breath-taking come from something as simple as paper!

It made me think that even simple words, when put together in a special way, can create something new to enjoy.  For me, that’s a rhyme.  So, I figured it might be time for a Rona rhyme!

Rona, Rona…are you STILL here?

The unwelcomed guest who stays all year!

How long will you seriously be around?

We’re all feeling a bit unwound.

It’s now respectful to NOT shake a hand,

It’s something that’s just so hard to understand.

Hugs are no longer a way to show love,

This craziness is nothing I’ve ever dreamed of.

We show family our love by staying away,

That’s difficult to grasp on any given day.

The refrigerator talks to us, “Girl, step back!”

“You cannot be hungry for another snack!”

Stretchy waistbands say, “Don’t worry.  You’re fine!”

“You can start exercising after some wine!”

We’ve all become teachers…ready or not!

Even though math is a thing we forgot.

You made us lose track of weeks and days,

We just walk around in a Netflix haze.

We TikTok here and we TikTok there,

We barely wash or brush our hair.

Children are wearing the same clothes for Zoom,

We call it our homeschool uniform…Boom!

Now, we wear masks and live in alarm,

Before biting, mosquitoes sanitize my arm!

Rona, Corona, Covid-19,

Please, go away, you’re being too mean.

You made our world stand completely still,

And, truth be told…we’ve had our fill.

While you are here, you ARE teaching us though,

We need home, faith, and family more than we know.

We have time to feel grateful for people and things,

Building courage to handle whatever life brings.

We’re superheroes by just staying home,

Saving lives by choosing not to roam.

We’re learning what we’re capable of,

We’re especially learning new ways to love.

While we’re ready for you to go, Rona, please!

We’ll hold on to the memories; get down on our knees.

Lord, help us remember the lessons we’ve learned,

During Corona…when lives overturned.

As I look at the bright bouquet of flowers that my children made from simple paper, I’m reminded to enjoy some of the simplicity of these days.  While unpredictable, worrisome, and difficult as the days can be, let’s try to look for the simple joys around us. 

Let’s pray that God will give us the special sight to see and appreciate these joys.  Last week, I found joy…in paper flowers…and chocolate bait.

You can do it, Sunshines!  I believe in you.  God does, too.  Bye for now.

My Daughter's Paper Flower

Dreams Are Meant To Be Shared

Dreams are meant to be shared,

Then, we won’t be as scared.

Some dreams are big and some are small,

Don’t be afraid to share them all.

God sends special people on our way,

For encouraging words; they will say.

When stumbling blocks slow us down,

Their smile can quickly change our frown.

Obstacles and problems will certainly come,

They’ll challenge us in ways we can learn from.

Those who love us want what’s best,

Negative vibes may come from the rest.

Take it step by step and follow that dream,

The journey can be long; it may seem.

Dreams may be old ones or maybe brand-new,

But, never give up; that’s not what we do.

If the dream’s not scary…is it really big enough?

Our adventure can be smooth and also can be rough.

Hope and trust that God will lovingly provide,

The people and strength we’ll need for the ride.

Shared is what dreams are meant to be,

Try sharing those dreams; it’s amazing, you’ll see!

Last week, I shared a dream of mine on Facebook.  This particular dream had come true and it was time to spread the news!  My dream came in the form of paper…8 inches by 10 inches to be exact.  Yes, I published my second children’s book, “Thank You, Hurricane Harvey.”  Woohoo!  Yippee!  Yeah!  

The outpouring of support, encouragement, and love fills my heart with joy.  Family and friends from near and far congratulated me and even passed along my great news to their friends.  I’m truly humbled by the generous amount of praise!  Wow!

So, Sunshines, if you have a dream, old or new; I encourage you to go for it!  You’ll be surprised and blessed by the people God sends to you when you need them…how you need them…and exactly where you need them on your path.

If you’re looking at sharing the gift of reading with your child, grandchild, niece, nephew, godchild, neighbor, or friend…then, please click on over to Amazon and order my new book for Christmas!  It’s available in both hard cover and paperback formats. Thanks so much!

Remember to share your dreams and have a wonderful week, Sunshines!  Bye for now.

The Back-To-School Blues

Photo Credit:  Prawny from morgueFile.com

Are your kids singing the back-to-school blues?
Have you bought their supplies and brand-new shoes?
Forms to fill out and fees to pay,
The days have flown since the end of May.
They'll need to use the gifts God gave,
And try their best to behave!
With dance, gym, sports, and art,
The schedule's tight right from the start.
They'll learn so much throughout the year,
The kids have grown...is that a tear?
Let's pray for them along the way,
Let's love and care for them each day.
We need to start this year off right,
So, come to the museum on Saturday night!
We'll have Chick-fil-A and read my book,
They'll be golden keys...come take a look!
It's a Pajama Party, so don't miss out,
We'll have tons of fun, without a doubt!
Grab your tickets online today,
Since the back-to-school blues
Aren't
Here
To
Stay.

Hello Sunshines!  Join me for a Back-to-School Pajama Party at The Children's Discovery Museum this Saturday night (August 12th) from 6-8pm.  There will be a bit of magic, a reading from my book, Gabriel's Golden Key, and yummy Chick-n-Minis from Chick-fil-A!  It's breakfast for supper and all ticket proceeds benefit The Children's Discovery Museum.  I will be signing my books and giving away special golden keys with each book purchased as well. Please buy your tickets now at www.cdmgoldencrescent.com.  They are $8.00 each and include the delicious meal!

I hope you all have enjoyed your summer!  I will continue writing my Sips throughout the school year, but you'll hear from me a bit more sporadically since I'm a working momma now. But, as the inspiration hits, I'll be sure to share...share...share it!

I'll see you on Saturday night, Sunshines!  Bye for now.

Here's To A Non-Bummer-Summer

Photo Credit:  GatorTodd from morgueFile.com

Tis the season for moms, dads, and grads, no doubt!  You can almost reach out and touch the excitement in the air as students and teachers count down the last few days of this school year.  Children and parents everywhere are wondering just how their summer will be.  Will it be a non-bummer-summer?  Well, that’s up to us.  We choose.  I wrote a poem last May that I want to share again, with just a few tweaks: 

18 SUMMERS

Summertime has come, my friends,

The school year’s done, for here it ends.

What will we do to pass each day?

Some camps, vacation, work, and play?

Maybe a mission trip’s in the plan?

How ‘bout cross-country in a van?

Veg on the couch or hit the gym?

Will we bend our knees in prayer with Him?

Will we practice hoops and football throws?

Or water gardens in perfect rows?

Will we canoe or paint a scene?

Tackle the closets and finally clean?

Do some shopping or stay at home?

Travel nearby?  Go out and roam?

How much or little can we pack,

In that suitcase, bag, or sack?

Plan our days to the hour,

Or take some time to smell that flower?

It’s such a task to balance it all.

Have fun, work some…all before Fall.

We have 18 summers with our kids.

Will we have “should haves,” “could haves,” or “dids?”

From birth to grad day isn’t that long,

Life’s an adventure, a beautiful song.

Grab some fishing or swim at the beach.

Hike in the mountains while eating a peach.

Whatever you do, make it count.

18 summers – that is the amount.

Cuddle the kids, grab hugs and kisses.

Praise 2-point baskets.  Forget the misses.

Turn up the music.  Sing it loud.

Dance alone or in a crowd.

Amidst mosquitos and humid days,

Let’s thank God for morning rays.

Kids might whine that they’re bored,

Let’s try to remember to thank you, Lord,

For each hot day’s a gift from you.

18 summers – what will we do?

Celebrate our days or waste the time?

Spend some cash or not a dime.

Embrace this summer’s number, whatever it happens to be,

Summer 7, 10, 13 – these are the numbers for me.

The kiddos are growing up so fast,

Grab some shades - make memories to last!

Happy Summer, Sunshines!  Over the next few months, I’ll be taking a break from my writing schedule, as I work and spend some time with my family and friends.  I wish you all the best as you embrace your summer…whatever number you’re on.  Enjoy it to the fullest!  Here’s to a non-bummer-summer!

M-Day Is Here!

It’s May and M-Day is here!

It’s time for mothers to cheer!

A day to shine and celebrate,

Be pampered a bit and sleep in late.

What does the dash in M-Day mean?

It surely means “others” as I have seen.

The dash is important.  Her gift is serving.

Tell her she’s special - this you’re observing.

Moms give of themselves three-sixty-five,

They sacrifice so their children can thrive.

They launder the clothes, prepare the meals,

Always aware how everyone feels.

Some sleepless nights spent in worry,

Her taxi service is sure in a hurry.

Long to-do lists may not be complete,

But, her love is great – from head to feet!

When a child is sad or lonely and scared,

A mom knows this because she has cared.

When a child is happy and full of joy,

Mom knows this too, about her girl or boy.

There are new moms and moms with quite a few years,

Both of them will experience tears.

Tears of joy and tears of doubt,

Together, we learn.  That’s what it’s about.

We learn from children. They learn from us.

Sometimes we’ll agree.  Sometimes we’ll fuss.

We’ll pray for insight, guidance, and more,

Along the way, with memories galore!

As long as we live, our babies they’ll be,

Our love runs deep and this you’ll see!

Most of “mother” is “other” – it’s true,

So, love your mom, whatever you do!

Tell her you’re thankful for her time,

Draw her a picture.  Write her a rhyme.

Make her dinner with her favorite dessert,

Maybe some flowers or a new shirt?

Or no gift at all and just be good,

Get along without fighting, please, if you could.

God blessed this world with angels we call,

Mother or Mommy – she loves with all!

Happy M-Day, ladies!  I’ll say a prayer,

And thank God for you, for being there!

Have a wonderful week, Sunshines, and Happy Mother’s Day!  Bye for now!

The Greatest of Gifts

Photo Credit:  dhester from morgueFile.com

My 10-year-old daughter has been hard at work on an ancestry project for school.  She chose to research Poland since my mom’s dad was born there.  She’s been interviewing my mom, aunt, and uncle to discover some of the pieces of our Polish puzzle.  She’s learning about foods, customs, games, traditions, jobs, holidays, and the language.

My daughter has investigated which family members still live there and why my grandfather came to America all those years ago.  I have enjoyed listening to her excitement as she relays her findings and shares all the stories with me.  Being a little foodie herself, she has especially loved learning all about the delicious dishes that my grandpa used to prepare.  I know she probably still won’t dive into a heaping bowl of sauerkraut or cabbage rolls, but it’s been a fun learning experience all the same.

One of the areas that I’ve truly appreciated has been the language part.  We found out that “Ja Cie Kocham” is “I love you” and “Czesc” is “Hello.”  “Jak sie masz” is “How are you?” and then we stumbled upon a word that she’ll never forget, I’m sure.  That word is BRAT.  Do you know what it means?  Yep!  It means brother.  She thought that was interestingly funny.  Hee hee!  We all laughed…except her brother, of course.

Anyway, I love languages.  All kinds.  I love to hear families speak to each other in their native language or mother tongue.  It’s fascinating to me.  I wish I could speak many different languages, so I will add that to my bucket list today!

In the meantime, I was inspired to write a poem after working with my daughter on this project.  Here goes:

Do you speak French, Italian, Spanish, too?

Can you say “I love you” and “How do you do?”

Do you get lost when listening to Greek?

Are you confident with language?  Or tongue-in-cheek?

Can you rattle off German and Polish as well?

Do you speak Chinese as clear as a bell?

Is Czech the one that you know best?

Are words so confusing you need to rest?

The great news is, we don’t have to speak…

Everyone’s language to get what we seek.

You see, there is something small that can bring…

Happiness to all.  Hearts will just sing!

It’s free to give and to receive.

It’s the greatest of gifts, I do believe.

You carry it with you wherever you go.

Some keep it hidden.  Some let it show.

The joy is great if you wear it awhile,

Every language gets it.  It’s simply a smile!

I realized that everyone smiles in the same language.  I love it!  I encourage you to share a smile with someone today – a friend, family member, or complete stranger.  You’ll make their day and I dare to say that you’ll make your own day better, too!

It’s the greatest of gifts.  Your smile.  Your Polish-German-Spanish-French-Greek-Chinese-Czech-Italian smile!  Yes, that’s the one.  Share it with your “brat” or sister!  Ha!

Have a wonderful week, Sunshines!  Bye for now.

Could This Be The Year?

Some gutsy guests have decided to move into our home this Spring.  Well, not exactly move INTO our home, but rather move ONTO the front porch.  These valiant visitors have found our porch to be the perfect, cozy spot to settle down in.  Who are these daring little guests?  They are…“The Swallow Family.” 

These bold birdies are bound and determined to move in.  My husband didn’t really like the idea of them pooping up the front porch and making a muddy mess everywhere, so he and the kiddos made a makeshift scarecrow.  They constructed it out of a cardboard box and palm tree branches.  The girls colored a funny face on the cardboard box, wrote “Stay away!” and stuck the branches in the top of it.

Well, The Swallow Family just laughed and laughed.  I heard them.  In fact, I hear them chuckling now as I type this Sips.  Actually, they temporarily moved to the back porch.  Yep.  I hear them unpacking at this very moment.  They’re staying.  However, did you know that one of the family members was insistent on taking up residence on the front porch?  That winged warrior was brave enough to make his nest INSIDE the “scary” cardboard box!  Uh-huh.  NO FEAR!  None.  Seriously.

I just have to giggle because I admire the birds’ courage, fearless motivation, and never-give-up-attitude.  My husband has been battling this audacious feather family for a few weeks now.  Mr. and Mrs. Swallow got me to thinking more about fear though and how fear can hold many of us back from doing the things we really want or need to do.

So, of course, I was inspired by “Sparrow Spunk” and decided to write a poem.  Here goes:

Could this be the year?

Could this be the year to tackle fear?

Take a big breath and make it deep,

Let go of the fears that we may keep.

Make that appointment.  Go on that trip.

Cringe a bit and bite that lip.

Find a way to take that class,

Study hard and you will pass.

Go for a check-up.  Take that job.

Find the peace that fear does rob.

Mend a friendship.  Take a test.

Harmony is found when souls find rest.

“Don’t be afraid,” the Lord does say.

He’ll be with us along the way.

It won’t be easy.  Fear is rough,

But God does know we are enough.

Pray for strength.  He will provide.

Tackle fear.  He’s by our side.

Public speaking, heights, and such,

Flying, tight spaces, thunder – too much?

Doctors, dentists, snakes, spiders?

Dig down deep because we’re fighters!

We will doubt and that’s okay.

We’re not perfect in any way.

Go ahead – laugh.  Maybe cry.

Whatever you do, just please try.

“Increase my faith,” we asked the Lord,

And all His love…out He poured.

He’ll send friends in fearful places.

He’ll send hope through many faces.

Something or someone hold us back?

Many things can get us off-track.

Let it go and let them be.

Without fear, we’re stronger, see.

Fear just limits and takes away,

The beauty God blesses in each new day.

Take a chance and dive on in,

It’s where we’re going, not where we’ve been.

Right now, we’re ready to do great things.

Fear is too heavy for our wings.

Ready to soar?  Ready to fly?

Fear likes to stay, but say good-bye!

Could this be the year to tackle fear?

I think the answer is yes, my dear.

Have a wonderful week, Sunshines!  Bye for now.

You Are Enough

Photo Credit:  anitapeppers from morgueFile.com

God needs us.  This I know.

He has ground to till and seeds to sow.

Have you ever thought God can’t use you?

Far from perfect.  Mistakes we do.

Our feelings of doubt and those of fear,

Can hinder God’s work all through the year.

His knock on our door may be gentle or loud.

You’ll hear it alone or when in a crowd.

Can you be the one to help God out?

Be available.  That’s what it’s about.

Do you question your gifts, your talents, and more?

Be open to see what God has in store.

He believes in us more than we see.

Saying yes to Him is truly the key.

He doesn’t call the qualified, but qualifies the called.

He doesn’t care if you’re hairy or completely bald.

If you’re short or tall or maybe between,

A seasoned helper at times or fresh and green.

No matter your age, background, or money,

If you’re quiet, calm, upbeat, or funny.

He needs us.  He wants us.  He’ll bless us for giving,

Ourselves to Him – instruments while living.

Am I enough?  Are you enough?

He’ll take us all – the tender and tough.

Temperaments differ.  Personalities vary.

He needs us – the single and those who marry.

On this earth, we’re His feet and hands,

There’s much to do in all His lands.

We are clay in His care, ready to mold.

He needs the young, middle-aged, and old.

Need a sign?  Well, this is it.

It’s time to take action.  Don’t just sit.

You’re enough.  I’m enough.  We are enough, I’ll say.

God is calling us in a very special way.

Thank you, in advance, for your yes to His call.

Don’t be afraid.  He’ll pick us up when we fall.

Let’s spread His love the ways we can,

To every child, every woman, and also each man.

Are we overly sensitive?  A bit too rough?

Worry not, my friend, because YOU ARE ENOUGH!

Have a wonderful week, Sunshines!  Bye for now!

Dancing With Daddy

Daddy-Daughter Dance - April 2016

My girls received a special invitation a few days ago.  It was the invite they were waiting for all year long!  The invitation is for the Annual Daddy-Daughter Dance at their school.  This year’s theme is Enchanted Garden and I’m certain the place will be blooming with charm, beauty, and memory-making!

There are only 11 days until the big night arrives!  The girls are already discussing hair, nails, and dresses.  They love the thought of hanging out with their dolled-up and decked-out girlfriends, but the main thing is time with Dad.  They have Daddy all to themselves.  They’ll dance until their feet hurt and twirl until they’re dizzy, I’m sure!

I wrote a poem last April that was inspired by the epic Daddy-Daughter Dance, so I want to share that again with you today:

THE DADDY-DAUGHTER DANCE

The dance is tonight, Mom.  I can hardly wait!

I get Daddy to myself.  Tonight, he’ll be my date.

Mommy, will you paint my nails?  How ‘bout Dazzle Red?

Please curl my hair this evening, too.  That is what you said.

Mommy, how about mascara, lipstick, and some blush?

Can I get ready early?  I sure don’t wanna rush.

Let’s take some pictures on the porch.  I’ll smile and pose just right.

This Daddy Dance is once a year.  It’s happening tonight!

I’ll dance with Daddy every song.  How much longer til we’re there?

I’ll wear a dress that sparkles.  I’ll put flowers in my hair.

I’ll grab some snacks, chat with friends, but this is special, Dad.

When the night is over, I know that I’ll be sad.

Let’s make the most of every moment.  Twirl me once or twice.

A waltz, two-step, or polka.  Boogie-woogie would be nice.

Hold me in your big, strong arms and never let me go.

And, don’t forget to tell me what I already know.

Tell me that you love me, Dad, and that you always will.

Every time you tell me, it’s my heart that you fill.

Tell me I’m your sunshine, the twinkle in your eye.

If you shed a tear, Dad - I’ll wipe it if you cry.

Do you think I’m beautiful?  Inside?  Outside, too?

Tell me Dad - I’ll have no doubts, if it comes from you.

I’ll always be your baby girl, as the years fly by.

I won’t forget you danced with me.  You’re my favorite guy!

Thank you for this evening.  Your time means much to me.

Let’s go, Dad – it’s date night.  Here’s that ol’ truck key…

I want to take this time to also thank the amazing people who host this event and make it such an incredibly memorable night for daddies and daughters!  On behalf of all the mommies, I want you to know that you are truly appreciated!

Have a wonderful week, Sunshines, and may you have a loving, joy-filled Easter with your family!  Bye for now.