A Day to Remember the Little Things in Life that Make a Difference




Is there anything I can do to brighten your
DAY?  I thought so!

Love is Grand!




'George' says: Enjoy your Day!

Make it a 'Happy Day'!



'Cocoon to Butterfly-A full Life'



'The Beauty of Nature'

Let us take the time to enjoy 'nature's beauty' and the 'little things' that can make a huge difference in our day.  It doesn't take long and it can add flavor to any day.

 

Until next time

God Bless

Doris

 

Memorial Day Holiday - United We Stand

 

 

There are so many reasons that people celebrate the Memorial Day Holiday.

As I think about so many of us spending this time to relax, picnics, camping, Indy 500 race, summer activities, visiting families and friends and so many other activities, I hope all of us do not forget the real meaning of this holiday. 

Our Freedom is priceless and taken for granted.  May we pause and give thanks for the many that have dedicated their lives and services to fight for our freedom.  Without those people, we would not be enjoying the many events that we have been and are enjoying this weekend. 

Let us give thanks and pray for the many families that have lost their loved ones fighting for our freedom.

We salute all Veterans of War and the many that are serving our country today.  May God Bless each and every one!

As we are experiencing many evil and harmful acts in our world today, may we never forget that there are some treasures in our trials. Perhaps, they are  designed to shake us free from earth-shackles.  It is very hard to find secure reasons why things happen the way that they do.  It is very easy to lose hope. 

However, there are other blessings that hopefully reveal 'a higher power' of love and hope to strengthen our faith.  Those blessings might be through sunshine, flowers, birds, friendships, music, answered prayer.  Plus, these blessings can give us insight and reflection as to the many blessings that we do have and experience everyday.  These can be powerful 'tools' to bring us back on track to 'a purpose and goals' to strive to support and encourage our  'soldiers' that are fighting each and every day for our 'FREEDOM'.

May we always and ever search for a deeper treasure as we go through each day.  It might be a miracle as to what we find along the way.



 

'Faith does not concern itself with the entire journey.  One step is enough.'  by Mrs. Charles E. Cowman

 

Until next time

God Bless

Doris

'OKLAHOMA TORNADO'

As I have shared in my blog that 'Life is a wonder to me', the Oklahoma tornado speaks volumes today.  There is no way to relate to the people that are experiencing this terrible tragedy in Oklahoma.  What does it mean to every person there in Oklahoma and across our land.  The 'message' is in the process and the 'teacher' is silent or is HE?  To seek, discern, pray, hope, trust and cling to ones' faith is vital at this time, indeed.

Our minds kick in gear as to what would we do, how would we feel, what if it happens to us, how can we protect ourselves and our children. It is not so much adverse events that make us anxious as it is our thoughts about those events.  We have a tentative to want to control or fix things.  We quickly forget who is in charge when an act of God is allowed to unfold. 

Where is our trust and faith in all things during times as these? What can we do to help so far away as we hear about this tornado.  Is this event only speaking to those in Oklahoma? 

Today, my thoughts are all over the place as I watch and read about this terrible tornado in Oklahoma this morning.  We all know that there isn't a single soul that could have prevented this tornado. 

I read recently from a reading of Graham Cooke these words:  "God allows in HIS Wisdom what HE could easily prevent in HIS power."  WOW!  How does this settle in our hearts?  Are we back to choices and how we view the 'whys' of life?  Are the 'wonders of life' about something deeper than what we want to feel this morning as our hearts break.  This might be a time to reflect in a deeper level as to the 'whys' of real life lessons of this tornado. This tornado might change persons lives in a way that brings them a new awareness of life and living.

I have chosen this morning to share this poem that I have penned as I reflect, ponder and pray for the many hearts that are hurting so badly in Oklahoma and around our world. 

                REFLECTION ON THE OKLAHOMA TORNADO EVENT
                     
May 19, 2013 was an ordinary date, sending children to school.
By the end of the day, it was similar to 1999's memory of a 'Howling Gate'.
Before the tornado sweep through this day,
folks' memories had faded and they didn't think of this date.

For some, time allowed for nothing.
Much more than seconds, minutes of whirling winds and rain were released.
The boldness of disaster took, homes, businesses and lives.
The results of the tornado is beyond human belief.

Folks are supporting all means against the wicked winds of speed.
More than neighbors and families, are ready and standing tall.
Homes, trees, vehicles, and people were tossed everywhere.
Life seems more precious - the mission to help is their 'call'.

Loving people are coming from near and far.
They want to join this mission in resolve for a common cause.
They are mixing their sweat with other peoples' sweat, dirt,
mud, rain; still, they haven't paused.

Yes, awakening calls roar through disasters.
Courage, compassion, empathy flows across our land.
People helping carry their burdens, as in: 'you ain't heavy, your my brother'.
It is priceless and precious in giving and extending a helping hand.

'May god's guidance, love and grace' overshadow all people.
Abolishing all differences, with harmony to give and receive.
Let us hear with our hearts and not our ears only.
May God grant us a willingness and compassion to perceive.

                                   copyrighted by Doris Swertfeger
                                                      05-21-2013

            'LOVE' is one of the most powerful forces in the universe.



Until next time
God Bless
Doris
                              

'The Greatest gift you ever give is your honest self.'


Today, as I think of all that is going on in our world, it causes me to pause and think of some better days of long ago.  We have better technology but what about morals and honesty?  We can turn on our TV today and hear about all of the corruption in many areas of our world that is just so disheartening.

I realize there are problems and issues in all generations.  Nevertheless, it seems as time passes, there is more corruption and dishonesty in the political world to say the least.  And, in turn, this streams down and/or, to and fro, in other areas that affect all of us.

"The greatest gift you ever give is your honest self."  This statement was said by a wise man.  Do you know who this man was?  I'll give you a hint.  For more than thirty years, he swept us off to his neighborhood and taught us about love, friendship, respect, individuality, imagination, honesty, and so much more.  With his signature style, his cardigan, and his gentle yet direct tone, he earned our trust and love. 
Well, if you haven't guessed who this is by now, I'll tell you, Fred Rogers.  Perhaps, it was the 'cardigan' that gave him away or was it the 'neighborhood'?  And, it might have been because he seemed different, in ways, I have no doubt that he was made fun of in his gentle and simple style. 

I think this is evident as to how we judge people.  We have no right nor do we want to be judged in any way.  Oh, maybe, if it is a great compliment that builds up our ego.  How very wrong this is.  If, in fact, this is where we are and how we feel.  Mister Roger was a good example of giving this gift of his honest self. 

Mister Rogers had a humble heart, love and knowledge.  He offered volumes of unique tools and comfort to all ages.  He shared through love and grace, giving the greatest gift he could ever give, 'his honest self'. 

I would like to share some of the wonderful things he shared with others in his book: The World According to Mister Rogers.  He thought some of these writings were important to remember and so do I.

"Successful people....just love what they're doing, and they love it in front of others."

"We human beings all want to know that we're acceptable, that somehow our being alive makes a difference in the lives of others."

"People have said, 'Don't cry' to other people for years and years and all it has ever meant is, 'I'm too uncomfortable when you show your feelings. Don't cry.'  I'd rather have them say, 'Go ahead and cry.  I'm here to be with you.'"

Love isn't a state of perfect caring. It is an active noun like struggle. To love someone is to strive to accept that person exactly the way he or she is, right here and now.
 
Mister Rogers said so simply.  "You don't ever have to do anything sensational for people to love you."  Remember him saying on his show that "it's you I like," "I'm talking about that part of you that knows that life is far more than anything you can ever see or hear or touch.  It is that deep part of you that allows you to stand for those things without which humankind cannot survive: love that conquers hate, peace that arises triumphant over war, and justice that proves more powerful than greed."

May we all find the strength and grace to make those choices which will allow all of us to become the best of whoever we are. 

Giving the gift of our 'honest self, is as beautiful in its' simplicity as the raindrops visiting a petal on a flower....it just flows.  






'Raindrops bring beauty to our flowers'

Until next time
God Bless
Doris

'HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY' - 'IN LOVING MEMORY OF 'MY MOTHER'


Mothers are special people.  Mothers come from different professions, beliefs, and race. 
Mothers are made up of different things and sometimes there are things that a child does not like.  As time passes, the child grows and matures.   They become a Mother.  Through the experiences of being a Mother, a different light is shed upon their views, as Mothers. I know it did for me.

My Mother loved me with such ease.  She loved me with so much patience and care.  My Mother's love never wavered as long as I can remember.  This is a 'Mother' well worth celebrating much more than once a year. 

Mothers=Love=Flowers

I salute all Mothers this 'Mother's Day'.  I ask you to join me in reflecting on 'Your Mother' and as 'A Mother' in celebration, with thankfulness and a conviction for us to be the best Mothers we can be.  When we become a Mother, it is an ever ending journey.  I am thankful for my Mother and to have been blessed to have become a Mother.

This is, perhaps, one reason that Mother's Day is celebrated every year.  It takes a lifetime to truly feel the scope of what a true Mother's love is and the responsibility it holds in life and living of a child.

I was blessed to have a wonderful Mother.  As we reflect on this Mother's Day, I would like to share some of my thoughts, in loving memory, of my Mother.
              
                                                                
                                                             Happy Mother's Day
                                                       In loving memory of my Mother
                                                                         1918-2000

                                           This coming Sunday is 'Mother's Day'!
                                                       Marked on the calendar as such.
                                            Does it really matter to celebrate this day, Yes!
                                               Mothers are priceless and loved, very much.

                                                      Memories take me back to my Mother.
                              You could look the world over and none like her would you find.
                                        My Mother had a gift; 'a way of life Mother', so to speak.
                                      She went beyond the scope of caring but she didn't mind.

                                         My Mother laughed and had a great sense of humor.
                                           She joined hearts together in a quiet and simply way.
                                                   Her love will always linger in memory
                                               with her family and many friends, every day.

                                             She was a Mother without reservations
                                               in anything and everything through her love.
                                                It didn't matter if it was a big or small task
                                        true colors of love came forth as in the symbol of a dove.

                                                          She always had a smile for others
                                                            beyond the scope of her family.
                                                       She was the 'peace-keeper' to many
                                                 in a way that she didn't want any flatter.

                                            My Mother was all about peace and love
                                             with all people and anything that she touched.
                                            She is a Mother to treasure through memories
                                                    and I will treasure, forever, very much. 

                                                     Copyrighted by Doris Swertfeger 2013 

Loving Memories

Until next time,
God Bless
Doris

PARENT MAGAZINE COVER PAGE CONTEST-VOTE FOR 'MADDIE'



Parent Magazine is having a contest this week for a cover page photo.  I am inviting everyone to vote for 'MADDIE'. 

Maddie is my granddaughter.  She is full of life and has a personality to match her sweet smile. This smile is with her everyday!  She is a charmer!  She is a little girl that loves life!  She is adventurous and likes to fish, play in dirt, play with dolls and do most anything that one would introduce her to!  Her little mind is like a sponge! She loves people! 

Most people will not believe the words that I have penned here once they read that 'MADDIE' is my granddaughter.  Therefore,  I have chosen not to linger in penning anymore adjectives that could continue to flow from my heart. We all know our 'heart strings' when we speak of any of our grandchildren.  They are all miracles and blessings to each of us.

As I conclude my post, I will leave you with this. 

 

'MADDIE' IS SPECIAL,

AS ALL GRANDCHILDREN ARE.

GOD'S MIRACLES TO FAMILIES 

 WITH PRECIOUS FACES, WE ADMIRE FOR HOURS.

 

THIS PARTICULAR INVITATION

TO VOTE FOR 'MADDIE' FOR THIS PARENT MAGAZINE COVER PAGE,

IS A VOTE THAT WILL BE REMEMBERED

THROUGHOUT HER 'LIFE-FILLED' DAYS.

 

IF THIS PARTICULAR INVITATION, 

IS FELT WITHIN YOUR HEART,

YOU MAY GO INTO THE WEBSITE

AND VOTE ONE PER DAY, I ASSURE YOU,  'IT'S NOT, FOR NOT'. 

 

I KNOW MY WISH WILL BE COMPLETE

AND MY HEART WILL FEEL WARM. 

'MADDIE' WILL BE SHARING LOVE AND JOY,

PERHAPS, IT WAS MEANT TO BE, FROM THE DAY SHE WAS BORN.

  

 

WITH THANKS AND APPRECIATION,

FROM THE HEART OF GRANDMA DORIS

Until next time
God Bless
Doris

IN A ROSE GARDEN OF A RAINY DAY


Today as I reflect on this rainy day, weekend that we are experiencing, I think of the importance and purpose of rain.  I think of everybody that are in the work force and long to have a weekend that is 'Sunny'.

I still remember how I looked forward to the weekends after working all week behind closed doors.  The weather wasn't much of a concern if I had to work to some degree.  I didn't have the choice of enjoying the outdoors. So, the weekends with Sunshine were a wonderful thing to experience. 
I would like to share this poem that I penned from these thoughts of:

                                  IN A ROSE GARDEN OF A RAINY DAY

IN THE ROSE GARDEN OF A RAINY DAY

COULD BE A DAY WITHOUT SONG.

IN THE ROSE GARDEN OF A RAINY DAY

COULD BE A DAY WITHOUT A PRETTY DAWN.

 

I FEEL MY ROSE GARDEN OF A RAINY DAY

IS A DAY FULL OF REFLECTION AND WONDER.

IN THE ROSE GARDEN OF A RAINY DAY,

I SLOW DOWN A BIT, THIS OPENS UP TIME TO PONDER.

 

IT SEEMS ON THOSE SUNNY DAYS OF SUNSHINE

I AM ALL ABOUT THINGS WITH A FASTER PACE.

IN THE ROSE GARDEN OF A RAINY DAY,

IT SLOWS ME DOWN FROM THE HUMAN RACE.

 

MOST ALL PEOPLE LIKE THOSE SUNNY DAYS,

INSTEAD OF THOSE 'RAINY DAYS' AND GLOOM.

IN THE ROSE GARDEN OF A RAINY DAY,

I CAN SMELL THE FRAGRANCE OF THE 'ROSE GARDEN BLOOMS'.

 

IN THE ROSE GARDEN OF A RAINY DAY,

THE RAIN SPRINKLES INNER GROWTH.

WHILE THE SUNSHINE BRINGS FORTH,

THE BEAUTY OF 'THE ROSE GARDEN' WORTH.

 

 

COPYRIGHTED BY DORIS SWERTFEGER

                                                                                                                        05-04-2013

Until next time

God Bless

Doris