DO ALL THINGS WITH LOVE

Love is the most important ingredient of life.
Your life echoes emptiness without it.
With it, your life vibrates meaning and warmth.
Love will shine through even in hardship.

You will find as you look back upon your life that the moments
that stand out, the moments when you have really lived,
are the moments when you have done things in a spirit of love.

If you have it, you don't need to have anything else,
and if you don't have it, it doesn't much matter what else you have.

Treasure the love you receive above everything else.
It will survive long after your wealth and good health have vanished.


The way is not in the sky.
The way is in the heart.

Life in abundance comes only through great love.

LOVE

Love is not written on paper, for paper can be erased.
Nor is it etched in stone, for a stone can break.
But it is inscribed on the heart and there it shall remain for ever

My Wish For You

This week has been such a busy week. I was so prepared for the holidays. I had all my shopping done weeks ago, the house decorated, the presents all wrapped and under the tree, but then just days before Christmas I got a cold and that got me all off track.

I had alot of baking to do and last minute errands, but being sick left me with no energy. Finally feeling a bit better on Monday, I forced myself to cram everything I needed to do in two days.

And now...Christmas has come and gone. All this preparing and rushing...visiting with family and friends. It feels like in a blink...it's over. Do you feel that way too?

I felt bad that I didn't even have time to get online and wish you all a Happy Holiday...

So now My Wish For You is that the warmth of Christmas stays with you long into the New Year and in the words of Rascal Flatts:

I hope that the days come easy and the moments pass slow,
And each road leads you where you want to go,
And if you're faced with a choice, and you have to choose,
I hope you choose the one that means the most to you.
And if one door opens to another door closed,
I hope you keep on walkin' till you find the window,
If it's cold outside, show the world the warmth of your smile,

But more than anything, more than anything,
My wish, for you, is that this life becomes all that you want it to,
Your dreams stay big, and your worries stay small,
You never need to carry more than you can hold,
And while you're out there getting where you're getting to,
I hope you know somebody loves you, and wants the same things too,
Yeah, this, is my wish.

I hope you never look back, but ya never forget,
All the ones who love you, in the place you left,
I hope you always forgive, and you never regret,
And you help somebody every chance you get,
Oh, you find God's grace, in every mistake,
And you always give more than you take.

This is my wish
I hope you know somebody loves you
May all your dreams stay big

To All The Women Who Make Our Life Meaningful

Time passes.
Life happens.
Distance separates.
Children grow up.
Jobs come and go.
Love waxes and wanes.
Men don't do what they're supposed to do.
Hearts break.
Parents die.
Colleagues forget favors.
Careers end.
BUT.........

Sisters are there, no matter how much time and how many miles are between you.

A girl friend is never farther away than needing her can reach.

When you have to walk that lonesome valley and you have to walk it by yourself, the women in your life will be on the valley's rim, cheering you on, praying for you, pulling for you, intervening on your behalf, and waiting with open arms at the valley's end.

Sometimes, they will even break the rules and walk beside you...Or come in and carry you out.

Girlfriends, daughters, granddaughters,daughters-in-law, sisters, sisters-in-law, Mothers, Grandmothers, Auntie's, nieces, cousins, and extended family, all bless our life!

The world wouldn't be the same without women and neither would I.

When we began this adventure called womanhood, we had no idea of the incredible joys or sorrows that lay ahead. Nor did we know how much we would need each other.

Every day, we need each other still.

What is a 'Cougar'?

Have I been living under a rock? I have been hearing the term 'cougar' a lot lately and at first, had no idea what it even meant. Except of course if one was referring to the animal. haha

I hear this term being used on TV, in blog posts and it's all over the Internet.

The term "cougar" is relatively new I think and is sparking a lot of debate recently as to the exact meaning. It is generally applied to an older woman who dresses seductively in hopes of attracting the attention of a younger man.

I don't think this term is flattering to women, but if the term was being used to describe women as being vital, strong, independent, intelligent, successful... then that's another story.

Anyway, I think if a woman is dressing seductively, it's not only for the attention of younger men. I think it's to attract the attention of the opposite sex regardless of their age. And, maybe it makes her feel good to know she looks good.

Um, Cougar...pouncing on younger men? Does that mean my 84 year old Aunt, married my Uncle over 50 years ago, who is 7 years younger considered a cougar? My Grandmother who after being widowed at age 43, married a man younger than she, a cougar? I just have to chuckle at the thought.

I seem to attract younger men. It certainly is not because I dress seductively. I think it's because I just look younger than I am. Me? a cougar? in those terms associated with the older women / younger man? HA...now I am vital, strong, independent, intelligent, successful...

You can't predict who you fall in love with. If the quality of the relationship is great, you get along well, have friendship, respect, committment and so on, does it really matter the ages of the couple? I know there's a double standard of the older man/younger woman...those men get the thumbs up, but really...Aren't we passed the time of judging couples, passed the negative remarks when seeing older women with a younger men and vice versa?

What are your thoughts about this? I'm just curious...

Unexpected Kindness

Even though the weekend isn't over, I experienced acts of kindness that was not expected. And, it made my faith in people stronger. I have to admit, sometimes people can disappoint... some just don't do what you think is the right thing or how many times have you seen others not treat other people kindly. I also believe people aren't as giving to one another as they can be at times .

It started yesterday...I know many who read this blog knew I had been very sick from Feb to May. I am now fully recovered from that ordeal, but a new problem arose a couple months ago. I have always had problems with my back and now it seems I have a bone spur in the canal at the base of my spine. It must be removed to stop any nerve damage and of course eliminate the pain I am in. My surgery is scheduled for Oct 15th.

Yesterday I had to go to the hospital for my pre-admission testing. One test listed turned out not to be covered under my insurance, but for whatever reason, my doctor ordered it. The nurse explained the cost and that I would have to pay prior to getting the test. Since it was unexpected to me, I told her to leave that test out and I would discuss it with my doctor. She agreed and I proceeded to get all the tests done, but then I realized the test not covered was completed. I looked at her and she knew what I was about to ask and just smiled...she said not to worry, it was done in such a way that I wouldn't be charged. um, are you sure? She said I'm sure. Wow...I actually got something I wasn't expecting for no cost. She was kind and understanding of my situation. I left the hospital with a smile...

My day continued...I had a lot of errands to run and one thing on my 'to do list' was to get my brake light fixed on my car. I had intended to take it to one place, drove past it without thinking and just decided I'd take the car to my local gas station repair shop. I explained what I needed and the man said he'd fix the light right then. Ok...so I stood there as he fixed my light. I asked what the charge would be and he said with a smile...no charge. What? Again, someone did something at no cost?! What's going on I thought...since when do you get something for free? I realize that man was a smart business man for now I will bring my car back to his station for my oil changes etc, but he really didn't have to give me a free repair. I left the gas station with a smile.

Last night I went to meet some friends. Well, one friend I've known for about 45 yrs and the others were people I had recently met. As we mingled and enjoyed listening to the band, I guess word got out about my upcoming surgery. I had people sincerely offer their help if I needed any. I heard offers that one would go to the food store, one offered their time as in keeping me company and one person even took my cell phone number,so they could check up on me and make sure I wouldn't need anything. I was blown away by the kindness these new friends expressed. It was very heart warming. I was told that no one should be or feel alone, so they are there if I ever need them. That was such a nice thing to hear.The kisses and hugs and well wishes were so uplifting. I must have been glowing...

Yesterday was a good day indeed...I gained much...encouragement, confidence, faith, felt kindness and love and the inspiration to continue to pay it forward...

In Remembrance

Bonding With Animals

Greek philosopher, Plato states that love goes far beyond simple attraction. It occurs throughout the universe and includes the animal kingdom. The formation of a close relationship is referred to as 'bonding'

There are many forms of bonding...parent/child, families, friendships, relationships, but here I'm going to speak of the bond between humans and animals (pets).

For many people bonding to a pet is a natural and very valued 'friendship'. The love for their pets runs deep. Some non-animal lovers do not understand the concept and think an animal can not return the love felt by their human owner or show affection in any way. I also know some people who feel that animals show no emotion.

That is so untrue. Animals show their emotions in many ways and do love their owners or care takers. I'm sure you animal lovers and pet owners agree. I have mentioned in previous posts about animals that my dog actually hugs. I think that's part of the reason it is so hard for me to break her of the habit of jumping up when certain people walk through my door. She wants to hug them...Some of you might be laughing at that, but I tell you it's true. We did an experiment just recently. A friend of mine who hasn't seen my dog in awhile, came over. My dog was jumping up and she wouldn't stop. Even while I was trying to discipline her. I told my friend she probably wants to hug you. Of course he laughed, but let her jump up. Her paws went around his neck (she's 130 lbs and about 5 feet when standing). After that, she seemed satisfied because she stopped jumping!

The below video shows the bond an animal can have with their human friends. I have a huge fondness for wild cats...lions and tigers in particular. This video is touching. Some of you might have heard about this story or watched it on the news. For those who haven't seen this, Hope you enjoy it. Notice how the animal jumps up to 'hug'

Social Networking For Pet Lovers

Something I would like to bring awareness to is a new social networking site. I know, there are so many sprouting up, but this site is different. It is dedicated to Pets. You read that correctly. A site dedicated to animals and our pets.

Our Huge Pet Blogging Community will probably be overjoyed. This is a place for like minded pet lovers to gather and exchange photos or information. While I surf blogs, I am thrilled to come across someone who is a pet lover and has developed their blogs solely around animals. Whether it is to help those you cannot speak for themselves or write about the joys of pet ownership or bring awareness about cruelty, I am glad I am not alone in my sensitivity towards animals.

Animals are my weak spot and I realized a dream of mine many, many years ago.I had always wanted to work with animals and I got the chance to work for Animal Rescue Force here in New Jersey. It was a great experience for the 5 years with them, but honestly it became so stressful for me, I had to move on. I am still involved with animal welfare, but in a different capacity.

It's refreshing to see Anamigo trying to launch a site that allow others to feel comfortable in sharing or bragging and realize how important our babies are to us.

This site just may become the portal for 'everything animals'. They showcase blurbs of blogs dedicated to animals, have links regarding healthcare, pet services, pet friendly businesses and travel, animal welfare, pet stores and recreation. The adorable pictures of animals had me ahhhh'ing for awhile.

If you're a pet owner you may want to upload some of your babies pictures and brag alittle about your best friend. There is a difference between pet lovers and non lovers and at Anamigo, you can join a community with other like minded people.

This site currently in beta is probably looking for any suggestions for creating the best pet networking site possible, so if you have any ideas, drop them a line. So far, I don't have any two cents to contribute. I liked what I saw.


Here's a picture of my "baby" when she was 4 months old. She's 5 years older and 120 lbs heavier, but still has that adorable face.

Happy Father's Day

The memories of my dear Father, instead of the agony I once felt, are now sad sweet feelings in my heart...

What Makes a Dad

God took the strength of a mountain,
The majesty of a tree,
The warmth of a summer sun,
The calm of a quiet sea,
The generous soul of nature,
The comforting arm of night,
The wisdom of the ages,
The power of the eagle's flight,
The joy of a morning in spring,
The faith of a mustard seed,
The patience of eternity,
The depth of a family need,
Then God combined these qualities,
When there was nothing more to add,
He knew His masterpiece was complete,
And so,

He called it ... Dad

~~Author Unknown.~~

Why Can't The Rest Of The World Get Along??

My girlfriend knows how much I love animals. Tigers and lions are among
my favorites. I have tiger/lion plates, candle holders, pictures,
calenders and a plate collection.

She sent me this email and I loved it! Just gave me that warm, fuzzy
feeling...Now only if people can adjust, be as loving and accepting...

Here's the Story:
In a zoo in California , a mother tiger gave birth to a rare set of
triplet tiger cubs. Unfortunately,due to complications in the
pregnancy, the cubs were born prematurely and due to their tiny size,
they died shortly after birth.

The mother tiger after recovering from the delivery, suddenly started
to decline in health, although physically she was fine. The
veterinarians felt that the loss of her litter had caused the tigress
to fall into a depression. The doctors decided that if the tigress
could surrogate another mother's cubs, perhaps she would improve.

After checking with many other zoos across the country, the depressing
news was that there were no tiger cubs of the right age to introduce to
the mourning mother. The veterinarians decided to try something that
had never been tried in a zoo environment. Sometimes a mother of one
species will take on the care of a different species. The only
'orphans' that could be found quickly, were a litter of weanling pigs.
The zoo keepers and vets wrapped the piglets in tiger skin and placed
the babies around the mother tiger. Would they become cubs or pork
chops??
Take a look...

Inspiration From Children

Every once in awhile I receive emails that are touching and have special meaning. To me they're worth sharing.The following email is one. Children bring to us so much if we only listen.

What Love means to a 4-8 year old ....
Slow down to read this. It is so worth it. Touching words from the mouth of children.
A group of professional people posed this question to a group of 4 to 8 year-olds, 'What does love mean?'

The answers they got were broader and deeper than anyone could have imagined.
See what you think:

'When my grandmother got arthritis, she couldn't bend over and paint her toenails anymore.
So my grandfather does it for her all the time, even when his hands got arthritis too. That's love.'

Rebecca- age 8
***
'When someone loves you, the way they say your name is different.
You just know that your name is safe in their mouth.'

Billy - age 4
***
'Love is when a girl puts on perfume and a boy puts on shaving cologne and they go out and smell each other.'

Karl - age 5
***
'Love is when you go out to eat and give somebody most of your French fries without making them give you any of theirs.'

Chrissy - age 6
***
'Love is what makes you smile when you're tired.'

Terri - age 4
***
'Love is when my mommy makes coffee for my daddy and she takes a sip before giving it to him, to make sure the taste is OK.'

Danny - age 7
***
'Love is when you kiss all the time. Then when you get tired of kissing, you still want to be together and you talk more.
My Mommy and Daddy are like that. They look gross when they kiss'

Emily - age 8
***
'Love is what's in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen.'

Bobby - age 7 (Wow!)
***
'If you want to learn to love better, you should start with a friend who you hate,'

Nikka - age 6 (we need a million more Nikka's)
***
'Love is when you tell a guy you like his shirt, then he wears it everyday.'

Noelle - age 7
***
'Love is like a little old woman and a little old man who are still friends even after they know each other so well.'

Tommy - age 6
***
'During my piano recital, I was on a stage and I was scared. I looked at all the people watching me and saw my daddy waving and smiling.

He was the only one doing that. I wasn't scared anymore.'

Cindy - age 8
***
'My mommy loves me more than anybody
You don't see anyone else kissing me to sleep at night.'

Clare - age 6
***
'Love is when Mommy gives Daddy the best piece of chicken.'

Elaine-age 5
***
'Love is when Mommy sees Daddy smelly and sweaty and still says he is handsomer than Robert Redford.'

Chris - age 7
***
'Love is when your puppy licks your face even after you left him alone all day.'

Mary Ann - age 4
***
'I know my older sister loves me because she gives me all her old clothes and has to go out and buy new ones.'

Lauren - age 4
***
'When you love somebody, your eyelashes go up and down and little stars come out of you.' (what an image)

Karen - age 7
***
'Love is when Mommy sees Daddy on the toilet and she doesn't think it's gross.'

Mark - age 6
***
'You really shouldn't say 'I love you' unless you mean it. But if you mean it, you should say it a lot. People forget.'

Jessica - age 8
***
And the final one

The winner was a four year old child whose next door neighbor was an elderly gentleman who had recently lost his wife.

Upon seeing the man cry, the little boy went into the old gentleman's yard, climbed onto his lap, and just sat there.

When his Mother asked what he had said to the neighbor, the little boy said,

'Nothing, I just helped him cry'


Just wanted to Bless all my friends in whatever it is that you may be needing this day. May your life be full of peace, prosperity and love.

For The Girls in My Circle

I have found while I have been sick, my friends have really been here for me. I never thought they wouldn't be, but honestly, the support...the caring...the way they haven't forgotten me as I am home and not able to see them, has been more than I ever expected. It is a wonderful feeling to be cared about and they are and have really helped me get through this episode.

They even got together and presented me with the most perfect gift. It was overwhelming and brought tears to my eyes.

I have been out of work going on two months, so my friends came up with a way to help. Their generosity, thoughtfullness and caring ways will buy groceries or other items needed for the rest of the month. Just overwhelming and I am so Thankful...

So For The Girls In My Circle (including my Internet Friends)...this is for you...

When I was little, I used to believe in the concept of one best friend,
And then I started to become a woman.

And then I found out that if you allow your heart to open up,
God would show you the best in many friends.

One friend is needed when you're going through things with your man.
Another friend is needed when you're going through things with your mom.

Another will sit beside you in the bleachers as you delight in your children and their activities.
Another when you want to shop, share, heal, hurt, joke, or just be.

One friend will say, "Let's cry together,"
Another , "Let's fight together,"
Another , "Let's walk away together."

One friend will meet your spiritual need,
Another your shoe fetish,
Another your love for movies,
Another will be with you in your season of confusion,
Another will be your clarifier,
Another the wind beneath your wings.

But whatever their assignment in your life,
On whatever the occasion,
On whatever the day,
Or wherever you need them to meet you with their gym shoes on and hair pulled back,
Or to hold you back from making a complete fool of yourself ..
Those are your best friends.

It may all be wrapped up in one woman,
But for many, it's wrapped up in several..
One from 7th grade,
One from high school,
Several from the college years,
a couple from old jobs,
On some days your mother,
On some days your neighbor,
On others, your sisters,
Maybe some days your Internet Friends
And on some days, your daughters.

So whether you've been my friend for 20 minutes or 20 years,
God has placed you in my life to make a difference...AND YOU HAVE !

Happy Mother's Day!

This is a truly beautiful piece. I received this in an email with no mention of who actually wrote it.

For those lucky to still be blessed with your Mom,
this is beautiful. For those of us who aren't, this is
even more beautiful. For those who are moms, you'll love this.
Happy Mother's Day

MOTHER

The young mother set her foot on the path of life. 'Is
this the long way?' she asked. And the guide said: 'Yes, and the way is hard
And you will be old before you reach the end of it.. But
the end will be b e tter than the beginning.'

But the young mother was happy, and she would not
believe that anything could be better than these years. So she
played with her children, and gathered flowers for
them along the way, and bathed them in the clear streams; and
the sun shone on them, and the young Mother cried,
'Nothing will ever be lovelier than this.'

Then the night came, and the storm, and the path was
dark, and the chil dren shook with fear and cold, and the mother
drew them close and covered them with her mantle, and the children said,
'Mother, we are not afraid, for you are near, and no harm can come.'

And the morning came, and there was a hill ahead, and
the children climbed and grew weary, and the mother was weary.
But at all times she said to the children,' A little patience and we are there.'
So the children climbed, and when they reached the top
they said, 'Mother, we would not have done it without you.'

And the mother, when she lay down at night looked up
at the stars and said, 'This is a better day than the last, for my
children have learned fortitude in the face of hardness. Yesterday I gave them courage.
Today, I've given them strength.'

And the next day came strange clouds which darkened
the earth, clouds of war and hate and evil, and the children groped
and stumbled, and the mother said: 'Look up. Lift your eyes to the light.
' And the children looked and saw above the clouds
an everlasting glory, and it guided them beyond the
darkne ss. And that night the Mother said,
'This is the best day of all, for
I have shown my children God.'

And the days went on, and the weeks and the months and
the years, and the mother grew old and she was little and bent.
But her children were tall and strong, and walked with
courage. And when the way was rough, they lifted her,
for she was as light as a feather; and at last they came to a hill,
and beyond they could see a shining road and golden gates flung wide. And mother said, 'I have reached the end of my journey. And now I know the end
is better than the beginning, for my children can
walk alone, and their children after them.'

And the children said, 'You will always walk with us,
Mother, even when you have gone through the gates.'
And they stood and watched her as she went on alone, and the gates
closed after her. And they said: 'We cannot see her
but she is with us still. A Mother like ours is more than a memory. S he
is a living presence.......'

Your Mother is always with you.... She's the whisper
of the leaves as you walk down the street; she's the smell of bleach
in your freshly laundered socks; she's the cool hand
on your brow when you're not well. Your Mother lives
inside your laughter. And she's crystallized in every tear drop.
She's the place you came from, your first home; and
she's the map you follow with every step you take. She's your first love
and your first heartbreak, and nothing on earth can
separate you.

Not time, not space... not even death!

Before I Was a Mom

Before I was a Mom~
I never tripped over toys or forgot words to a lullaby.
I didn't worry whether or not my plants were poisonous.
I never thought about immunizations.

Before I was a Mom~
I had never been puked on.
Pooped on.
Chewed on.
Peed on.
I had complete control of my mind and my thoughts.
I slept all night.

Before I was a Mom~
I never held down a screaming child so doctors could do tests Or give shots.
I never looked into teary eyes and cried.
I never got gloriously happy over a simple grin.
I never sat up late hours at night watching a
baby sleep.

Before I was a Mom~
I never held a sleeping baby just because I didn't want to put him down.
I never felt my heart break into a million pieces when I couldn't stop the hurt.
I never knew that something so small could affect my life so much.
I never knew that I could love someone so much.
I never knew I would love being a Mom.

Before I was a Mom~
I didn't know the feeling of having my heart outside my body.
I didn't know how special it could feel to feed a hungry baby.
I didn't know that bond between a mother and her child.
I didn't know that something so small could make me feel so important and happy.

Before I was a Mom~
I had never gotten up in the middle of the night every 10 minutes to make sure all was okay.
I had never known the warmth, the joy, the love, the heartache,
the wonderment or the satisfaction of being a Mom.

I didn't know I was capable of feeling so much, before I was a Mom.


I believe this holds true for...Before I Was a Dad also...Isn't it just amazing how a bond is formed immediately with your newborn? How you feel this tremendous amount of love as soon as you look into your babies eyes...it's just an awesome feeling

True Love

I found this in my email in box and wanted to share it with others.
Author unknown...

It was a busy morning, about 8:30, when an elderly gentleman in his 80's,
arrived to have stitches removed from his thumb. He said he was in a hurry
as he had an appointment at 9:00 am.

I took his vital signs and had him take a seat, knowing it would be over an
hour before someone would to able to see him. I saw him looking at his watch
and decided, since I was not busy with another patient, I would evaluate his
wound.

On exam, it was well healed, so I talked to one of the doctors, got the
needed supplies to remove his sutures and redress his wound.

While taking care of his wound, I asked him if he had another doctor's
appointment this morning, as he was in such a hurry. The gentleman told me
no, that he needed to go to the nursing home to eat breakfast with his wife.

I inquired as to her health. He told me that she had been there for a while
and that she was a victim of Alzheimer's Disease. As we talked, I asked if
she would be upset if he was a bit late. He replied that she no longer knew
who he was, that she had not recognized him in five years now.

I was surprised, and asked him, 'And you still go every morning, even though
she doesn't know who you are?'

He smiled as he patted my hand and said, 'She doesn't know me, but I still
know who she is.'

I had to hold back tears as he left, I had goose bumps on my arm, and
thought, 'That is the kind of love I want in my life.'

True love is neither physical, nor romantic. True love is an acceptance of
all that is, has been, will be, and will not be.

Show Love Everyday

February seems to be the month of 'love'. There is so much hype over Valentines Day. All the card creators and candy manufactures making a bundle. But,...

Why do we need one day to feel we are loved or show our love? I think we should be showing love to all the people in our lives on a day to day basis.

If you happen to be in a relationship, there are so many ways to be romantic. Writing a love letter, a poem, creating a romantic dinner, setting aside one night as 'date night'. If you find you can't be creative and need some help, you can take a peek at Romanceforeveryone.com for additional romantic ideas and lessons on how to be romantic. From love letters to creating a romantic scene using rose petals. For the men, there are tips on romancing your woman and how to write a love note. Believe me, she will love receiving a love letter.

When I met my guy (just so happens it was on February 24), we met a few days later for our first date. As it came time to say goodnight, we each walked out, hand and hand and said our goodbyes. I found myself missing him already as I was driving home. Time just went by too quickly and it was a great date!
I couldn't just say I miss you. He'd think I was crazy, but I decided on writing a text to say how much I enjoyed the date and how much I looked forward to seeing him again. As I hit the send button, I received a text from him. He was saying almost the exact same thing! I still have his text and read it from time to time as a reminder of our first date. It brings a warm smile to my face. We still use texting to this day, just to let the other know we're thinking of each other or set the stage for a romantic night. I find it makes me smile and I carry it throughout the day.

Sometimes it's the little things that mean the most. Romance is for everyone and can easily be brought into a relationship with just a little effort to make that certain someone feel special. It doesn't matter if you're newly dating, in a serious relationship or married. I think it's important to keep up with the little touches to make someone feel they matter and are cared about.

How do you show that special someone in your life they are loved? Share some romantic ideas.

For The Men: A Valentine's Gift Hint

It seems Valentine’s Day is on everyone’s mind right now. At work I’ve over heard the men asking each other…what are you buying your wife? and the women saying, I wonder what my husband/boyfriend is giving me.

If I can stick my two cents in….I loved receiving the strand of pearls my (former) husband had bought me. Pearls are classic and timeless. I still get compliments when I wear them.

Over at Amazing Pearl you can receive a deep discount and they are now running a 10% off special just for Valentine's Day.

There are many types of pearls: freshwater, cultured and akoya.

Akoya Cultured pearls are the most sought after because of their luster and nearly perfect round shape. This makes it easy to match if buying a necklace and want bracelets and earrings to go with it. Usually white or cream colored, but you can find them with a hue of rose or silver.
They are cultured in the Pinctada fucata martensii, also known as the akoya oyster.
Amazing Pearl buys directly from the most reliable pearl farm in China.



Freshwater pearls seem to be more affordable and range in color: white, black, pink and lavender. A necklace can cost from $65 - $96. Amazing Pearl offers matching bracelets and earrings as well.

If you make a purchase at Amazing Pearl, you will receive free US priority shipping, the best value, high AAA and AA+ quality, free appraisal that comes with a Certificate of Authenticity and an elegant gift box for presentation.

Whether you may consider a gift of pearls for Valentine's Day or another special occasion, be sure the woman in your life will appreciate it.

You can learn more pearl facts here.

What was the best Valentine's Day Gift you received?

LIVE.LEARN.LOVE

A young 22 year old man named Chance Craven has spent the last three years being there for others while being a member of myspace. Whether their time in need was due to a break up, having family issues or just encountering struggles in their life, he has provided support, an ear and reassurance of friendship.

Why you ask? He has a lot of love to give. His heart is wide open and wants to help others. His lesson learned was that he truly loves helping other people and wants to dedicate his life to spreading the love.

He has started a non profit organization called...itsChance focusing on the definition of 'chance' and everyone having one. A community devoted to helping feed the homeless, working with the elderly and children.

Below are words of wisdom I received in an email from Chance.

LIVE.LEARN.LOVE

1) Simply LIVE your live. Don't hesitate to do something today. Don't wait to tell someone you love them or wait to resolve conflict tomorrow. Live to the fullest and strive to be your best today!

2) Whether it's a good or bad day...LEARN from it. Realize that everyone makes mistakes and the only way to overcome the past, is focus on the future. Learning what works and what doesn't. Everything happens for a reason...make the best of it!

3) Choose to LOVE. The world is already full of so much hatred...choose to Love someone and show them you care. Show someone what true love is through your everyday actions. After all...actions speak louder than words.

Take a chance, choose to make a difference! Drop by his site and if you are in his area, why not donate some time to help others?

KUDOS CHANCE! and I wish you the very best. Many Blessings~

For All the Singles

A young co-worker of mine was telling me about a date he was planning for last night. A rather shy guy, I wondered where he met his date. He confided in me that he is a member of an online dating service.

It didn't surprise me. You hear so many people are looking for serious relationships or just Dating, activity partners and friends via the Internet these days. Of course some are weary of the dangers that can lurk, but I think if you are responsible and careful, the Internet is a great way to meet people.

It's not like your knight in shining Armour is going to be knocking on your door or your princess will arrive and say...I'm here!. You have to get out there, make a presence to be seen, right? If your friends are all married or in relationships, it's hard to go out and meet people alone. I know I hate going out by myself.

Online dating services are providing a way to do just that. Meet people. I know some poke fun and look down at others because they are choosing this avenue to meet people. I say...don't listen. My uncle married a woman he met online, a friends brother married his match and I've heard of other success stories as well.

The problem is there are so many sites to chose from. How do you know which site to join?

To help you decide on which service is best for you and accommodate your needs,Prime Dating Sites is a resource that will provide you with a full review of all the online dating services out there. After reading the review, you'll have a better understanding of what their site offers, key features and costs. This way you won't be wasting your time by completing a profile and then realize that service isn't for you.

Have fun and meet the man (or woman) of your dreams!