Sometimes the hardest thing we face is change. Embracing a new year brings about thoughts of change which is why I want to share one of my favorite quotes. It is from the show Grey's Anatomy.
Monday, December 28, 2009
"A New Year" - by Kristy
2009 is coming to a close and it is time to embrace a new year. 2010 is just around the corner and it's up to you to make it a great year. What are your New Year Resolutions? I'll share mine next week.
Sometimes the hardest thing we face is change. Embracing a new year brings about thoughts of change which is why I want to share one of my favorite quotes. It is from the show Grey's Anatomy.
"Change; we don’t like it, we fear it, but we can't stop it from coming. We either adapt to change or we get left behind. And it hurts to grow, anybody who tells you it does’t is lying. But here's the truth: the more things change, the more they stay the same. And sometimes, oh, sometimes change is good. Oh, sometimes, change is ... everything." - Greys Anatomy
Sometimes the hardest thing we face is change. Embracing a new year brings about thoughts of change which is why I want to share one of my favorite quotes. It is from the show Grey's Anatomy.
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Monday, December 21, 2009
"Dreamin of a White Christmas.." - by Kristy
With much of the east coast being covered in a blizzard last week I thought it would be a good idea to look at the happy side of snow.
While most people dread snow storms, I know I sure do, think back to when you were a kid. Think back to when snow was just the coolest thing. Adults moan and groan when they have to scrap their car in the morning and worry about their morning commute, but children's eyes light up when they see the snow. To them it's a beautiful sight. Snow days, snow men, snow ball fights, snow angels. How about sledding? Hot chocolate? What about skiing and snowboarding? There are endless opportunities for fun.
As adults, if we dig deep, I'm sure we can find the optimistic view of snow.
Here are a couple opinions courtesy of Yahoo! Answers:
Question- "What do you like about snow?"
"Sledding, NO SCHOOL, snowmen, the softness before it turns to ice, slipperyness, going back inside after being cold outside, the way it makes everything look cleaner, the way you can see the snowflakes in the light of the streetlights, and of course snowball fights with sis and friends."
"I find it stimulating. I always feels refreshed whenever I see or walk in snow."
"I love how romantic it can be, especially when you go for walks in it."
Hopefully this post helps remind you that snow isn't terrible & can be a lot of fun. Even if you don't enjoy it, think of the millions of children who find joy playing in it.
While most people dread snow storms, I know I sure do, think back to when you were a kid. Think back to when snow was just the coolest thing. Adults moan and groan when they have to scrap their car in the morning and worry about their morning commute, but children's eyes light up when they see the snow. To them it's a beautiful sight. Snow days, snow men, snow ball fights, snow angels. How about sledding? Hot chocolate? What about skiing and snowboarding? There are endless opportunities for fun.
As adults, if we dig deep, I'm sure we can find the optimistic view of snow.
Question- "What do you like about snow?"
"Sledding, NO SCHOOL, snowmen, the softness before it turns to ice, slipperyness, going back inside after being cold outside, the way it makes everything look cleaner, the way you can see the snowflakes in the light of the streetlights, and of course snowball fights with sis and friends."
"I find it stimulating. I always feels refreshed whenever I see or walk in snow."
"I love how romantic it can be, especially when you go for walks in it."
Hopefully this post helps remind you that snow isn't terrible & can be a lot of fun. Even if you don't enjoy it, think of the millions of children who find joy playing in it.
Friday, December 18, 2009
'Tis the season to give - by Monica
This is the season to give, not to receive, whether taking time out of your day to help a friend in need, putting money in the red metal kettle for the Salvation Army, etc. So many people only focus on their own problems, their own needs. “I can’t help you; I have so much to deal with in my own life that I don’t have time for your problems too”….”Oh, I can’t donate money to your organization; a new DVD comes out today that I just have to buy instead”…these are excuses many people use. Around the world, people live on only one dollar per day. Yet we throw countless dollars to the wind when so many people would give anything for just one. I know many people whose eyes glaze over when hearing about anyone else’s problems but their own. But instead, we should focus on others. Give more instead of take, take, take. So many people are less fortunate than we are. Yet we fail to notice because we’re so focused on ourselves.
Dominic Russo, one of the pastors at Oakland Christian Church, said at church last night that he saw an older man in his early 80’s eating at Max’s ‘n Erma’s this past week. He was all by himself, dressed nicely with his hair slicked back and a napkin stuck in his shirt as he ate his soup and drank his coffee. It was a snowy night, yet he came out by himself to the restaurant. Dominic said the man looked like he wasn’t used to being alone – as if he had recently lost his wife. “I want to pay for his meal,” Dominic’s wife whispered after they both watched the gentleman for several moments in silence. And so they did. They asked their waitress if they could anonymously pay for the man’s dinner.
Paying for one bowl of soup and one cup of coffee. I know I could afford that. And I know many other people could too. We sure spend it on ourselves enough. I’m sure that small act of kindness made that man’s day. How much better of a place this world would be if we looked each day to help someone, to brighten their day, instead of just looking to make ourselves happy.
In Farmington Hills, an anonymous donor put two coins into the red kettle for Salvation Army. But…those two coins…were GOLD! They value in $1,135 EACH! "A real giver doesn't want recognition, they just want to give," said Capt. Sarah Dimaso from the Salvation Army. "They have no motive other than to help somebody else, and that's wonderful." (view complete story)
If you would like to donate to a charity this Christmas season, here's a list of a few charities you could donate to:
Salvation Army
St. Jude's Children Research Hospital
-St. Jude is unlike any other pediatric treatment and research facility. Discoveries made here have completely changed how the world treats children with cancer and other catastrophic diseases. With research and patient care under one roof, St. Jude is where some of today's most gifted researchers are able to do science more quickly.
Society of St. Vincent de Paul
-The Society of St. Vincent de Paul Archdiocesan Council is a major provider of human and disaster relief services, assisting people in crisis who have been victims of fires or floods, lost their job, or oSather urgent situations by providing emergency support. The Society works in conjunction with the Archdiocese of Detroit, networking with 2,000 Vincentian volunteers in Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Lapeer, St. Clair and Monroe counties, assisting 30,000 local households annually.
Alex's lemonade stand foundation
-Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF) for Childhood Cancer is committed to finding a cure for all children with cancer. The foundation operates on the principle introduced by our founder Alexandra “Alex” Scott - “when life hands you lemons, make lemonade.” Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation first began in 2000, when a then 4-year-old cancer patient named Alex voiced a simple wish - she wanted to hold a lemonade stand to raise money to help "her doctors" find a cure for all kids with cancer.
National Hopeline Network
-Its mission the past 11 years has been to offer HOPE and the option to LIVE to those in the deepest emotional pain.
American Heart Association
-Make a general contribution to help fight heart disease and stroke.
Help Against Violent Encounters Now
-HAVEN serves the community through a series of innovative intervention, treatment, prevention and education programs in efforts to eliminate domestic violence and sexual assault.
For more organizations, visit charitynavigator.org
Feel free to comment with other charites you would like to recognize.
Dominic Russo, one of the pastors at Oakland Christian Church, said at church last night that he saw an older man in his early 80’s eating at Max’s ‘n Erma’s this past week. He was all by himself, dressed nicely with his hair slicked back and a napkin stuck in his shirt as he ate his soup and drank his coffee. It was a snowy night, yet he came out by himself to the restaurant. Dominic said the man looked like he wasn’t used to being alone – as if he had recently lost his wife. “I want to pay for his meal,” Dominic’s wife whispered after they both watched the gentleman for several moments in silence. And so they did. They asked their waitress if they could anonymously pay for the man’s dinner.
Paying for one bowl of soup and one cup of coffee. I know I could afford that. And I know many other people could too. We sure spend it on ourselves enough. I’m sure that small act of kindness made that man’s day. How much better of a place this world would be if we looked each day to help someone, to brighten their day, instead of just looking to make ourselves happy.
In Farmington Hills, an anonymous donor put two coins into the red kettle for Salvation Army. But…those two coins…were GOLD! They value in $1,135 EACH! "A real giver doesn't want recognition, they just want to give," said Capt. Sarah Dimaso from the Salvation Army. "They have no motive other than to help somebody else, and that's wonderful." (view complete story)
If you would like to donate to a charity this Christmas season, here's a list of a few charities you could donate to:
Salvation Army
St. Jude's Children Research Hospital
-St. Jude is unlike any other pediatric treatment and research facility. Discoveries made here have completely changed how the world treats children with cancer and other catastrophic diseases. With research and patient care under one roof, St. Jude is where some of today's most gifted researchers are able to do science more quickly.
Society of St. Vincent de Paul
-The Society of St. Vincent de Paul Archdiocesan Council is a major provider of human and disaster relief services, assisting people in crisis who have been victims of fires or floods, lost their job, or oSather urgent situations by providing emergency support. The Society works in conjunction with the Archdiocese of Detroit, networking with 2,000 Vincentian volunteers in Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Lapeer, St. Clair and Monroe counties, assisting 30,000 local households annually.
Alex's lemonade stand foundation
-Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF) for Childhood Cancer is committed to finding a cure for all children with cancer. The foundation operates on the principle introduced by our founder Alexandra “Alex” Scott - “when life hands you lemons, make lemonade.” Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation first began in 2000, when a then 4-year-old cancer patient named Alex voiced a simple wish - she wanted to hold a lemonade stand to raise money to help "her doctors" find a cure for all kids with cancer.
National Hopeline Network
-Its mission the past 11 years has been to offer HOPE and the option to LIVE to those in the deepest emotional pain.
American Heart Association
-Make a general contribution to help fight heart disease and stroke.
Help Against Violent Encounters Now
-HAVEN serves the community through a series of innovative intervention, treatment, prevention and education programs in efforts to eliminate domestic violence and sexual assault.
For more organizations, visit charitynavigator.org
Feel free to comment with other charites you would like to recognize.
Monday, December 14, 2009
"Hockeytown Ringing for Charity" - by Kristy
Last Tuesday evening several Detroit Red Wings players were ringing the bell for the Salvation Army at various metro Detroit locations. Many fans came out to support this great cause and get a chance to meet the players.
The participating players this year were: coach Mike Babcock, general manager Ken Holland, players Kirk Maltby, Jonathan Ericsson, Ville Leino, Justin Abdelkader, and Brett Lebda.
In addition to Tuesday night with the players, fans can also donate online and at a handful of home games as well. The team has done this for 3 years in a row and last year raised just over $8.2 million. The overall goal for this year is $8.5 million.
This video shows the heart of Hockeytown; not only the caring team we cheer on but the generosity from the community and fans. Watch:
The participating players this year were: coach Mike Babcock, general manager Ken Holland, players Kirk Maltby, Jonathan Ericsson, Ville Leino, Justin Abdelkader, and Brett Lebda.
In addition to Tuesday night with the players, fans can also donate online and at a handful of home games as well. The team has done this for 3 years in a row and last year raised just over $8.2 million. The overall goal for this year is $8.5 million.
This video shows the heart of Hockeytown; not only the caring team we cheer on but the generosity from the community and fans. Watch:
Friday, December 11, 2009
Home Run - by Monica
Excerpt from Our Daily Bread September - November 2009 Copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson
Sara Tucholsky, a softball player for Western Oregon University, hit the first home run of her life in a game against Central Washington. But she nearly didn't get credit for it. As she rounded first base in excitement, she missed it! When she wheeled back to correct her mistake, she injured her knee. Crying, she crawled back to the base. By rule, she had to touch all four bases on her own for the home run to count. Her teammates could not assist her in any way.
Then Mallory Holtman, the first basement for the opposing team, spoke up. "Would it be okay if we carried her around?" After conferring, the umpires agreed. So Mallory and another teammate made a chair of their hands and carted Sara around the bases. By the time they were through carrying her, many were crying at this selfless act of compassion, and Sara was awarded her home run.
Many times we get upset about the selfish people in the world -- the ones who cut us off while driving, knock into us in the grocery store, talk behind our backs, etc. This showed me there are selfless people in the world. This team helped a girl win who wasn't even on their team. So many people don't help out their own friends and family, let alone someone on the opposing team. Don't walk on other people, only caring about yourself. This Christmas season, and all year long, we need to make it our goal to do as Mallory Holtman and her teammates did -- lifting people on our shoulders instead of tearing them down. Sometimes helping someone else succeed means even more than your own accomplishishments.
Sara Tucholsky, a softball player for Western Oregon University, hit the first home run of her life in a game against Central Washington. But she nearly didn't get credit for it. As she rounded first base in excitement, she missed it! When she wheeled back to correct her mistake, she injured her knee. Crying, she crawled back to the base. By rule, she had to touch all four bases on her own for the home run to count. Her teammates could not assist her in any way.
Then Mallory Holtman, the first basement for the opposing team, spoke up. "Would it be okay if we carried her around?" After conferring, the umpires agreed. So Mallory and another teammate made a chair of their hands and carted Sara around the bases. By the time they were through carrying her, many were crying at this selfless act of compassion, and Sara was awarded her home run.
Many times we get upset about the selfish people in the world -- the ones who cut us off while driving, knock into us in the grocery store, talk behind our backs, etc. This showed me there are selfless people in the world. This team helped a girl win who wasn't even on their team. So many people don't help out their own friends and family, let alone someone on the opposing team. Don't walk on other people, only caring about yourself. This Christmas season, and all year long, we need to make it our goal to do as Mallory Holtman and her teammates did -- lifting people on our shoulders instead of tearing them down. Sometimes helping someone else succeed means even more than your own accomplishishments.
Monday, December 7, 2009
"Holiday Spirit" - by Kristy
To start ringing in the holiday spirit, I decided to do a post on a great American holiday tradition. This year thousands of people crowded downtown NYC to watch the annual lighting of the Rockefeller Christmas Tree. It is a great sight to see: people uniting to watch this beautiful ceremony.
Something you might not know is the history of the infamous tree and its humble beginnings. The tradition dates back to the Depression era days of 1931. A few construction workers had the simple idea to put up a tree on Christmas Eve 1931 and it has turned into a spectacular tradition that means a lot to all of us today.
Take a look at how far this great tradition has come:
to
It's amazing to see how much something can grow over time. Its significance grows each year. It is a wonderful tradition bringing together thousands to view the lighting and thousands more visit it throughout the month of December. It's a very popular tourist attraction. It is just a small way we all unite together during the holidays.
Credit history:
http://www.time.com/time/photogallery/0,29307,1863633_1809368,00.html
Something you might not know is the history of the infamous tree and its humble beginnings. The tradition dates back to the Depression era days of 1931. A few construction workers had the simple idea to put up a tree on Christmas Eve 1931 and it has turned into a spectacular tradition that means a lot to all of us today.
Take a look at how far this great tradition has come:
to
It's amazing to see how much something can grow over time. Its significance grows each year. It is a wonderful tradition bringing together thousands to view the lighting and thousands more visit it throughout the month of December. It's a very popular tourist attraction. It is just a small way we all unite together during the holidays.
Credit history:
http://www.time.com/time/photogallery/0,29307,1863633_1809368,00.html
Friday, December 4, 2009
Have a Little Faith - by Monica
Here is my unedited version of the article I wrote for the Oakland Post (our campus newspaper) Wednesday:
Mitch Albom visits book stores around the Oakland County area
By Monica Drake
I met Mitch Albom on Sunday, November 29 in Royal Oak at a book signing for his latest book “Have a Little Faith.”
“We need more young journalists,” Albom said.
The Barnes and Noble in Royal Oak is one of 13 stops Albom will be making this Christmas season in Michigan alone.
Albom is a journalist and best-selling author who moved to Detroit in 1985. He is a sports journalist for the Detroit Free Press and is known for his witty editorials on Sundays. But what really made Albom famous and a household name was his book “Tuesdays with Morrie,” which is the bestselling memoir of all time.
When Albom arrived to the book signing, he thanked everyone for coming out and announced that any elderly and disabled people were welcome to come to the front of the line. Before others in line could start groaning, Albom reminded the younger and healthier fans that this is what the holiday season is about – letting those less fortunate go ahead of us.
Coincidently, he also teaches this lesson in his latest novel “Have a Little Faith,” which was released in September. “Have a Little Faith” combines the stories of Albert Lewis, Albom’s childhood Jewish rabbi also known as the “Reb,” and Henry Covington, a Christian pastor who changed his life around after his previous drug addiction.
In this book, Albom delves head first into topics that many of us find too uncomfortable to talk about – charity, faith, death and the afterlife.
The book starts out with the question: “Will you do my eulogy?” Albom’s reverend from his youth was suffering from cancer and wanted Albom, who had long since moved away from his hometown, to do his eulogy.
“Picture the man who sends people off to heaven, asking you for his send-off to heaven,” Albom wrote.
As a child, Albom was always afraid of the Reb, who reminded him of a giant. Since his childhood, Albom stopped going to church, but he still revered and mostly feared the Reb. “Have a Little Faith” is about how Albom learned about the Reb as a person instead of an imposing force. He was a man who wore mismatched clothes and sandles with socks, a man who made time for every congregation member, and a man who would rather spend money on others than on himself. In his book, Albom recalls the questions he asked the Reb during his last years. I think these are questions that many of us have pondered within our lives. At least I know I have. Albom asked him questions like: How does love last? How do you prevent being forgotten after death? What makes a person happy? Why do bad things happen to good people? And why do you believe in God when so many people stop believing?
The other half of the book is about Covington. Detroit is Albom’s home, and he wanted to help someone within his own community. Covington’s church, Trumbull Avenue Presbyterian Church, had a hole in the ceiling and no heat. Many homeless Detroiters depended on the church as a place to sleep at night. Albom wanted to help, but it took him a long time to trust Covington instead of concentrating on his past.
“You are not your past,” Covington said in one of his sermons.
One of my favorite quotes in his book is, “[Reb] never, even in private, even in old age, tried to bully another belief, or bad-mouth someone else’s devotion. And I realized I had been a bit of a coward on this whole faith thing. I should have been more proud, less intimidated. I shouldn’t have bitten my tongue. If the only think wrong with Moses is that he’s not yours; if the only thing wrong with Jesus is that he’s not yours; if the only thing wrong with mosques, Lent, chanting, Mecca, Buddha, confession, or reincarnation is that they’re not yours – well, maybe the problem is you.”
It seems that many people in this world today have either been criticized for what they believe in or have criticized others for their beliefs. Albom, instead, researches other religions instead of judging them. He writes about the melting pot of beliefs in the world as a blessing instead of a curse. And this was a very refreshing idea, and something we all should think about. What gives people the right to judge and ridicule other’s beliefs?
Albom still has 11 more stops in his Michigan book tour, so if you missed him in Royal Oak, you still have more chances to meet him and receive his autograph. For more information on Albom, visit www.mitchalbom.com.
Mitch Albom’s Tour Dates
• Saturday, December 5 at 1 p.m. – Costco in Bloomfield
• Tuesday, December 8 at 7:30 p.m. – Borders in Farmington Hills
• Wednesday, December 9 at 7:30 p.m. – Barnes & Noble in Allen Park
• Thursday, December 10 at 7:30 p.m. – Borders in Brighton
• Saturday, December 12 at 11 a.m. – Sam’s Club in Canton
• Saturday, December 12 at 2 p.m. – Barnes & Noble in Rochester Hills
• Tuesday, December 15 at 7:30 p.m. – Borders in Gross Pointe
• Saturday, December 19 at 2 p.m. – Borders Express in Auburn Hills
• Monday, December 21 at 7:30 p.m. – Borders in Birmingham
• Tuesday, December 22 at 7:30 p.m. – Borders in Utica
Mitch Albom visits book stores around the Oakland County area
By Monica Drake
I met Mitch Albom on Sunday, November 29 in Royal Oak at a book signing for his latest book “Have a Little Faith.”
“We need more young journalists,” Albom said.
The Barnes and Noble in Royal Oak is one of 13 stops Albom will be making this Christmas season in Michigan alone.
Albom is a journalist and best-selling author who moved to Detroit in 1985. He is a sports journalist for the Detroit Free Press and is known for his witty editorials on Sundays. But what really made Albom famous and a household name was his book “Tuesdays with Morrie,” which is the bestselling memoir of all time.
When Albom arrived to the book signing, he thanked everyone for coming out and announced that any elderly and disabled people were welcome to come to the front of the line. Before others in line could start groaning, Albom reminded the younger and healthier fans that this is what the holiday season is about – letting those less fortunate go ahead of us.
Coincidently, he also teaches this lesson in his latest novel “Have a Little Faith,” which was released in September. “Have a Little Faith” combines the stories of Albert Lewis, Albom’s childhood Jewish rabbi also known as the “Reb,” and Henry Covington, a Christian pastor who changed his life around after his previous drug addiction.
In this book, Albom delves head first into topics that many of us find too uncomfortable to talk about – charity, faith, death and the afterlife.
The book starts out with the question: “Will you do my eulogy?” Albom’s reverend from his youth was suffering from cancer and wanted Albom, who had long since moved away from his hometown, to do his eulogy.
“Picture the man who sends people off to heaven, asking you for his send-off to heaven,” Albom wrote.
As a child, Albom was always afraid of the Reb, who reminded him of a giant. Since his childhood, Albom stopped going to church, but he still revered and mostly feared the Reb. “Have a Little Faith” is about how Albom learned about the Reb as a person instead of an imposing force. He was a man who wore mismatched clothes and sandles with socks, a man who made time for every congregation member, and a man who would rather spend money on others than on himself. In his book, Albom recalls the questions he asked the Reb during his last years. I think these are questions that many of us have pondered within our lives. At least I know I have. Albom asked him questions like: How does love last? How do you prevent being forgotten after death? What makes a person happy? Why do bad things happen to good people? And why do you believe in God when so many people stop believing?
The other half of the book is about Covington. Detroit is Albom’s home, and he wanted to help someone within his own community. Covington’s church, Trumbull Avenue Presbyterian Church, had a hole in the ceiling and no heat. Many homeless Detroiters depended on the church as a place to sleep at night. Albom wanted to help, but it took him a long time to trust Covington instead of concentrating on his past.
“You are not your past,” Covington said in one of his sermons.
One of my favorite quotes in his book is, “[Reb] never, even in private, even in old age, tried to bully another belief, or bad-mouth someone else’s devotion. And I realized I had been a bit of a coward on this whole faith thing. I should have been more proud, less intimidated. I shouldn’t have bitten my tongue. If the only think wrong with Moses is that he’s not yours; if the only thing wrong with Jesus is that he’s not yours; if the only thing wrong with mosques, Lent, chanting, Mecca, Buddha, confession, or reincarnation is that they’re not yours – well, maybe the problem is you.”
It seems that many people in this world today have either been criticized for what they believe in or have criticized others for their beliefs. Albom, instead, researches other religions instead of judging them. He writes about the melting pot of beliefs in the world as a blessing instead of a curse. And this was a very refreshing idea, and something we all should think about. What gives people the right to judge and ridicule other’s beliefs?
Albom still has 11 more stops in his Michigan book tour, so if you missed him in Royal Oak, you still have more chances to meet him and receive his autograph. For more information on Albom, visit www.mitchalbom.com.
Mitch Albom’s Tour Dates
• Saturday, December 5 at 1 p.m. – Costco in Bloomfield
• Tuesday, December 8 at 7:30 p.m. – Borders in Farmington Hills
• Wednesday, December 9 at 7:30 p.m. – Barnes & Noble in Allen Park
• Thursday, December 10 at 7:30 p.m. – Borders in Brighton
• Saturday, December 12 at 11 a.m. – Sam’s Club in Canton
• Saturday, December 12 at 2 p.m. – Barnes & Noble in Rochester Hills
• Tuesday, December 15 at 7:30 p.m. – Borders in Gross Pointe
• Saturday, December 19 at 2 p.m. – Borders Express in Auburn Hills
• Monday, December 21 at 7:30 p.m. – Borders in Birmingham
• Tuesday, December 22 at 7:30 p.m. – Borders in Utica
Monday, November 30, 2009
Paying it Forward by Kristy
The idea of paying it forward is providing someone, usually a stranger, some sort of favor with the expect of nothing in return. It can also be considered a random act of kindness. There's so many ways to pay it forward. It can be literal, such as helping someone financially: I.e. picking up someone's tab at lunch or buying a stranger a coffee at Starbucks. The scale of favor can vary greatly. For example it can be as small as holding the door open for someone/ giving an encouraging smile, or something much larger like donating a kidney to someone in desperate need.
The idea is similar community service, expect on a smaller scale with higher significance. Philanthropic work is great, but the idea of paying it forward is more directed at one person helping out one other person. For examples, success stories, and ideas check out this link: http://www.payitforwardfoundation.org/welcome.html
The idea of paying it forward is so inspiring that it has been made into a successful novel as well as blockbuster hit movie in 2000. (Although, I must admit I haven't had a chance to see it yet).
So, personally what inspired this entry? It was my uncle. In October I was in a car accident and had to pay a $400 deductible for my car to get fixed. Being a poor college student who had rent due that same week, I had to ask for a loan. However, recently when I sent him an email about paying him back he had this to say:
" Anyway, I am not sure we every talked about if/when you were going to pay me back on the deductible. I do not remember hearing or saying the word loan(or anything like that) when I gave you the $$$. Don't worry about it. Forget about it and save your energy and thoughts for school and fun and work, in that order, for now. :o]
Seriously, consider the $$$ a gift and try to stay out of trouble again. lol Everybody needs a little help now and then, and I am very happy to have been able to this time. Pay it forward in a smaller way to somebody else, the giving/helping is its own reward."
Generosity is such an admirable trait, I am so appreciative of other's generosity and I truly hope to become that type of person. I would be honored to be associated with that trait, as it doesn't come easy or often to many.
Honestly, the world can be a depressing and scary place, so it's nice to think about random acts of kindness & how there really are people out there with big hearts. It's easy to forget that, but important to keep it in mind. Remember that no favor is too small. You never know what it could mean to someone. Often in life, it's the little things that can mean the most. Our small steps may not be enough to change the world, but at least it can make it a little brighter.
The idea is similar community service, expect on a smaller scale with higher significance. Philanthropic work is great, but the idea of paying it forward is more directed at one person helping out one other person. For examples, success stories, and ideas check out this link: http://www.payitforwardfoundation.org/welcome.html
The idea of paying it forward is so inspiring that it has been made into a successful novel as well as blockbuster hit movie in 2000. (Although, I must admit I haven't had a chance to see it yet).
So, personally what inspired this entry? It was my uncle. In October I was in a car accident and had to pay a $400 deductible for my car to get fixed. Being a poor college student who had rent due that same week, I had to ask for a loan. However, recently when I sent him an email about paying him back he had this to say:
" Anyway, I am not sure we every talked about if/when you were going to pay me back on the deductible. I do not remember hearing or saying the word loan(or anything like that) when I gave you the $$$. Don't worry about it. Forget about it and save your energy and thoughts for school and fun and work, in that order, for now. :o]
Seriously, consider the $$$ a gift and try to stay out of trouble again. lol Everybody needs a little help now and then, and I am very happy to have been able to this time. Pay it forward in a smaller way to somebody else, the giving/helping is its own reward."
Generosity is such an admirable trait, I am so appreciative of other's generosity and I truly hope to become that type of person. I would be honored to be associated with that trait, as it doesn't come easy or often to many.
Honestly, the world can be a depressing and scary place, so it's nice to think about random acts of kindness & how there really are people out there with big hearts. It's easy to forget that, but important to keep it in mind. Remember that no favor is too small. You never know what it could mean to someone. Often in life, it's the little things that can mean the most. Our small steps may not be enough to change the world, but at least it can make it a little brighter.
Friday, November 27, 2009
Black Friday...Wedding? - by Monica
go to WXYZ to watch the video
If you could get married anywhere, where would you pick?
Your hometown church? A tropical island? Italy? Paris?
I'm sure whatever your answer is isn't the place Jennifer and Edward Burbo decided on for their big day.
While we were sleeping in the middle of last night, Jennifer and Edward got married, wearing a wedding gown, a veil, a suit, and winter jackets. The place they choose to get married was the Best Buy in Allen Park, and the guests to their wedding were all strangers. Since they started dating, camping out at Best Buy on Black Friday had been their tradition. And I guess they decided, what better way to honor the tradition than by getting married as they stood in line. The newly married Mr. and Mrs. Burbo were the first in line at Best Buy, and they were married by a pastor in front of their RV.
For all of that, I really hope they got some good deals when Best Buy opened this morning.
If you could get married anywhere, where would you pick?
Your hometown church? A tropical island? Italy? Paris?
I'm sure whatever your answer is isn't the place Jennifer and Edward Burbo decided on for their big day.
While we were sleeping in the middle of last night, Jennifer and Edward got married, wearing a wedding gown, a veil, a suit, and winter jackets. The place they choose to get married was the Best Buy in Allen Park, and the guests to their wedding were all strangers. Since they started dating, camping out at Best Buy on Black Friday had been their tradition. And I guess they decided, what better way to honor the tradition than by getting married as they stood in line. The newly married Mr. and Mrs. Burbo were the first in line at Best Buy, and they were married by a pastor in front of their RV.
For all of that, I really hope they got some good deals when Best Buy opened this morning.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Thankful - By Kristy
Thanksgiving is right around the corner and that is what inspired my idea for writing about giving thanks.
Everybody has their own Thanksgiving holiday traditions and everybody has their own things they feel thankful for. Sometimes we're too busy or caught up in the craziness of the holiday to stop and think about it. I admit that too often I have taken my own family tradition for granted and it was only when I took the time to think about what we do and what it means to me did I feel a sense of appreciation. Every year myself, my brother, my parents, and my uncle go to the Lions game and then go to Grandma's afterwards for a delicious turkey dinner. And we no doubt break out the Uno Playing Cards and play many competitive rounds. It's just what we do. Every year it's what we do and from the outside looking in, it may not seem like much - but to me it means the world. What do you and your loved ones do every Thanksgiving? I encourage you to comment and take the time to think about what it means to you.
Along with traditions, the holiday comes with the all important question.. what are you thankful for? For myself, every year I feel thankful for my family and my friends. It sounds cliche, because hey isn't that something we're all thankful for? But they are my support system and they are always there for me; picking up the pieces when my life falls apart. I am thankful for our health. I am thankful for my job and being promoted to manager this year and being trusted with much responsibility. This year in particular I feel thankful for deciding on my major and following my dreams. I am doing what I love and it makes me so much happier. I am also thankful for hard work and reaping the benefits; I am thankful for winning a scholarship. To put it quite broad - I am thankful for life and all the ups and downs and opportunities that come with it. What are you thankful for?
I decided to use Yahoo Answers to share what other people are feeling thankful for this year :
-"*My two beautiful daughters
*Husband
*My job
*my home
*My cars
*good health
*food for my family"
-"I'm thankful for a lot of things. I'm thankful for my wonderful fiance and my lovely family. I'm thankful for my darling angel baby girl who is due this March (though I wasn't so thankful before). I'm thankful for my health and for my school and my friends. I'm thankful that I live my life to it's fullest."
-"that my family has had relatively good health, and that my family has not been affected by the economy too bad."
-"My wonderful husband, my five year old cat, and my new crazy baby kitten who is currently trying to restart my computer! :) Then, of course, mine and their health and happiness."
-"Life, because it's amazing.
That includes big things, like my job, my health, my family, etc.
And little things, like hot cocoa on winter nights, the way the sun warms and dries you after a dip in the ocean, those sweet autumn breezes that blow through your hair and seem to cleanse you of negativity.
Just life."
-"Holding down two jobs (a full-time and a part-time) at a time when millions of Americans are unemployed."
Those are just some examples of people who have already stopped to think and share what they are thankful for. It's humbling and can help center your mind to think about things your thankful for; how can it not put a huge smile on your face? ;)
Everybody has their own Thanksgiving holiday traditions and everybody has their own things they feel thankful for. Sometimes we're too busy or caught up in the craziness of the holiday to stop and think about it. I admit that too often I have taken my own family tradition for granted and it was only when I took the time to think about what we do and what it means to me did I feel a sense of appreciation. Every year myself, my brother, my parents, and my uncle go to the Lions game and then go to Grandma's afterwards for a delicious turkey dinner. And we no doubt break out the Uno Playing Cards and play many competitive rounds. It's just what we do. Every year it's what we do and from the outside looking in, it may not seem like much - but to me it means the world. What do you and your loved ones do every Thanksgiving? I encourage you to comment and take the time to think about what it means to you.
Along with traditions, the holiday comes with the all important question.. what are you thankful for? For myself, every year I feel thankful for my family and my friends. It sounds cliche, because hey isn't that something we're all thankful for? But they are my support system and they are always there for me; picking up the pieces when my life falls apart. I am thankful for our health. I am thankful for my job and being promoted to manager this year and being trusted with much responsibility. This year in particular I feel thankful for deciding on my major and following my dreams. I am doing what I love and it makes me so much happier. I am also thankful for hard work and reaping the benefits; I am thankful for winning a scholarship. To put it quite broad - I am thankful for life and all the ups and downs and opportunities that come with it. What are you thankful for?
I decided to use Yahoo Answers to share what other people are feeling thankful for this year :
*Husband
*My job
*my home
*My cars
*good health
*food for my family"
-"I'm thankful for a lot of things. I'm thankful for my wonderful fiance and my lovely family. I'm thankful for my darling angel baby girl who is due this March (though I wasn't so thankful before). I'm thankful for my health and for my school and my friends. I'm thankful that I live my life to it's fullest."
-"that my family has had relatively good health, and that my family has not been affected by the economy too bad."
-"My wonderful husband, my five year old cat, and my new crazy baby kitten who is currently trying to restart my computer! :) Then, of course, mine and their health and happiness."
-"Life, because it's amazing.
That includes big things, like my job, my health, my family, etc.
And little things, like hot cocoa on winter nights, the way the sun warms and dries you after a dip in the ocean, those sweet autumn breezes that blow through your hair and seem to cleanse you of negativity.
Just life."
-"Holding down two jobs (a full-time and a part-time) at a time when millions of Americans are unemployed."
Those are just some examples of people who have already stopped to think and share what they are thankful for. It's humbling and can help center your mind to think about things your thankful for; how can it not put a huge smile on your face? ;)
Friday, November 20, 2009
New Moon Premiere - by Monica
I can just see Kristy rolling her eyes right now about this blog entry. Yes, it’s about New Moon. I stood in line for three hours last night to see it at midnight, and, if even possible, it surpassed my expectations. Now, about 14 hours after the movie ended and sleeping until 1p.m., I’m still wired. This is probably the first craze I’ve succumbed to – never getting into the Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, or Star Wars sagas (much to my boyfriend's disappointment about not getting into Star Wars).
To tell you the truth, a book about vampires was the last thing I thought I would enjoy. But the thing, at least with me, that is so appealing about the Twilight series isn’t the vampires or the werewolves. It’s the hope it provides.
There’s a deeper meaning to the Twilight books than just the obvious.
It’s about overcoming your past and overcoming addictions, as this Post Secret (postsecret.blogspot.com) showed on Sunday:
Just because you’ve made mistakes in your past or because you have desires that you consider to be “bad” (as with Edward and, well, wanting to drink human blood), that doesn’t mean you can’t be more than that. The Twilight series shows that we are more than our circumstances. It shows that we can act on self-control instead of just our impulses.
It’s also that we shouldn't settle and that true love transcends time; it's a love that’s worth waiting 100+ years for. I know what many men think: Twilight is an unrealistic ideal for them to live up to. Sure, I don’t agree with girls searching for a drop dead (no pun intended) gorgeous vampire, because, sorry to break it to you, but that’s not gonna happen. But the personality of Edward is not unrealistic, and something that many people could learn from (minus the whole breaking up with Bella in the woods and sneaking into her bedroom window. Guys, I don’t advise these).
What women find fascinating about Edward is how he protects Bella. He’ll give up everything in order to protect her, in order to make her happy, even if it means leaving her. He doesn’t use mind games to get with her, as many girls have become accustomed to in their own dating experiences. He will even let her be with another man if it would make her happy. Because, to him, that’s his number one priority – her being happy. He doesn’t try to talk her into wanting him with corny pick-up lines. Instead, he lets her choose for herself.
And, he loves her for her. Even when she thinks she’s “not good enough” compared to him, he shows her that, to him, she’s perfect. And even if she’s old, grey, and wrinkly someday when he still has the body of a 17-year-old, he’ll still feel the same way.
A relationship that is worth more than physicality, a relationship where the other person’s happiness is more important than your own, and a relationship where you want to protect the other from harm – that’s not unrealistic. It's something we should strive for in our own relationships. And if these books show girls what they do deserve, I don't think that's "unrealistic" at all.
I interviewed Nicole McGuckin, 20, at the premiere last night for The Oakland Press. You can see the rest of the article in this Sunday’s paper.
McGuckin said, “Why would you not be Team Edward? He is the ultimate lover, boyfriend and hopeless romantic. It kinda gives girls hope that there is that guy out there for them. There is possibly that guy out there that could be hopelessly in love with you and want to love you for the rest of your life."
I would like to hear your thoughts. If you've read the books and/or watched the movies, comment and tell me: What does the Twilight series mean to you?
To tell you the truth, a book about vampires was the last thing I thought I would enjoy. But the thing, at least with me, that is so appealing about the Twilight series isn’t the vampires or the werewolves. It’s the hope it provides.
There’s a deeper meaning to the Twilight books than just the obvious.
It’s about overcoming your past and overcoming addictions, as this Post Secret (postsecret.blogspot.com) showed on Sunday:
Just because you’ve made mistakes in your past or because you have desires that you consider to be “bad” (as with Edward and, well, wanting to drink human blood), that doesn’t mean you can’t be more than that. The Twilight series shows that we are more than our circumstances. It shows that we can act on self-control instead of just our impulses.
It’s also that we shouldn't settle and that true love transcends time; it's a love that’s worth waiting 100+ years for. I know what many men think: Twilight is an unrealistic ideal for them to live up to. Sure, I don’t agree with girls searching for a drop dead (no pun intended) gorgeous vampire, because, sorry to break it to you, but that’s not gonna happen. But the personality of Edward is not unrealistic, and something that many people could learn from (minus the whole breaking up with Bella in the woods and sneaking into her bedroom window. Guys, I don’t advise these).
What women find fascinating about Edward is how he protects Bella. He’ll give up everything in order to protect her, in order to make her happy, even if it means leaving her. He doesn’t use mind games to get with her, as many girls have become accustomed to in their own dating experiences. He will even let her be with another man if it would make her happy. Because, to him, that’s his number one priority – her being happy. He doesn’t try to talk her into wanting him with corny pick-up lines. Instead, he lets her choose for herself.
And, he loves her for her. Even when she thinks she’s “not good enough” compared to him, he shows her that, to him, she’s perfect. And even if she’s old, grey, and wrinkly someday when he still has the body of a 17-year-old, he’ll still feel the same way.
A relationship that is worth more than physicality, a relationship where the other person’s happiness is more important than your own, and a relationship where you want to protect the other from harm – that’s not unrealistic. It's something we should strive for in our own relationships. And if these books show girls what they do deserve, I don't think that's "unrealistic" at all.
I interviewed Nicole McGuckin, 20, at the premiere last night for The Oakland Press. You can see the rest of the article in this Sunday’s paper.
McGuckin said, “Why would you not be Team Edward? He is the ultimate lover, boyfriend and hopeless romantic. It kinda gives girls hope that there is that guy out there for them. There is possibly that guy out there that could be hopelessly in love with you and want to love you for the rest of your life."
I would like to hear your thoughts. If you've read the books and/or watched the movies, comment and tell me: What does the Twilight series mean to you?
Monday, November 16, 2009
Looking on the Bright Side - by Kristy
Too often in life we can be our own worst enemy. Someone who is admired by many may be so hard on themselves and not even realize how great they are. In life we can get so caught up in the idea of being perfect, and when we don't have a grasp on "perfect" we don't feel happy. We should not need the idea of perfect to feel happy. Perfectionism is a disease and not something worth chasing.
Instead I encourage the idea of learning to happy with what is. It's something that sounds so simple but is actually extremely challenging. It is not something that comes naturally. I feel like we are more apt to want perfection than to be willing to accept what is. So I am not saying this is something that is easy. Learning to be happy with what is thrown our way is quite an acquired state of mind. It takes a special kind of person to learn how to accept. Some people struggle with this all of their life. But when you stop and think about it, why be so hard on yourself when you know you gave something your all? Win or lose, fail or succeed; we all need to learn it's okay and when we gave something 100% we should be happy with ourselves regardless.
Being successful, making mistakes, taking chances - these are all ways in which we learn to grow.
And it's important to note that I am not saying to settle, because nobody deserves to settle. We all deserve to chase our dreams. But I am saying to work at learning that when you try your best, that is good enough. Don't beat yourself up over little things, knowing you gave something your all is worth being happy about.
Keep reaching for the stars. Keep giving your all and be happy knowing you did. ;)
Instead I encourage the idea of learning to happy with what is. It's something that sounds so simple but is actually extremely challenging. It is not something that comes naturally. I feel like we are more apt to want perfection than to be willing to accept what is. So I am not saying this is something that is easy. Learning to be happy with what is thrown our way is quite an acquired state of mind. It takes a special kind of person to learn how to accept. Some people struggle with this all of their life. But when you stop and think about it, why be so hard on yourself when you know you gave something your all? Win or lose, fail or succeed; we all need to learn it's okay and when we gave something 100% we should be happy with ourselves regardless.
Being successful, making mistakes, taking chances - these are all ways in which we learn to grow.
And it's important to note that I am not saying to settle, because nobody deserves to settle. We all deserve to chase our dreams. But I am saying to work at learning that when you try your best, that is good enough. Don't beat yourself up over little things, knowing you gave something your all is worth being happy about.
Keep reaching for the stars. Keep giving your all and be happy knowing you did. ;)
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Love is possible - by Monica
According to the National Center for Health Statistics, 60 percent of marriages of couples between the ages of 20 and 25 end in divorce, and 50 percent of all marriages of couples older than 25 result in a failed marriage.
Yes, I know, not happy news like I promised. But that’s not the happy news. The happy news is, yes, love still exists in this world, whether it’s found in the 7th grade…or at 97.
So, don’t stop believing in love, please. It’s out there – and it’s very real.
I feel that many people put a time limit on finding love. Some people have a “to-do list” for their life – get married by 25, have kids by 30, etc. Instead, stop looking. Maybe if people stopped trying to force love so it would fit into the nice little box they planned for themselves, divorce wouldn’t happen at such a high rate. Love doesn’t care about the time table. Love is so much more than a status.
And maybe, if people were willing to work through their problems instead of just giving up, divorce wouldn’t be so high either. If you see two people truly in love, it doesn’t mean they never fight. No, it just means they work through the fights. They make the most out of their struggles.
Love is possible. It takes work, but it is possible. If you have found love, don’t think about the statistics. Instead, change the statistics. Don’t spend your life fearing that you will become part of the 50 or 60%. My Aunt Michele and Uncle Mark have been together since the 7th grade. Yes, the 7th grade – almost 40 years. And they are still as in love as ever. They have proven to me that love can last forever at any age. We just need to stop giving up when the road isn’t easy, because…news flash…the best things in life aren’t easy.
And if you haven’t found love yet or lost love somewhere down the road, don’t give up. Don’t let it bring you down. Don’t think you’ll never find it or you’ll never find it again. Just live your life and let love find you, because love comes when you least expect it. My parents showed me this. The last thing they were looking for was love when they met each other in their mid-30’s. They were both divorced, and the concept of “love” seemed more like a myth. But my mom never would have met my father if it wasn’t for her ex-husband. Her ex-husband’s sister, in fact, set the two of them up on a blind date. My dad worked with her husband, and my mom, well, she used to be married to her brother. And…the rest is history. All the decisions they made in life, the good and the bad, led them to eachother. You never know when you’ll meet the person you will someday marry. Maybe it’s a stranger on an elevator or at your local café. Or maybe you’ll meet through a past relationship, showing you that something you may have once regretted did, in fact, happen for a reason.
I’m going to share with you a letter to “Dear Abby” that was featured in the Oakland Press (view the original article at http://www.uexpress.com/dearabby/) . It showed me that love really has no time limit, and it brought a smile to my face:
DEAR ABBY: I am 48 and recently divorced from my husband of 25 years. Like others in my age group, I worry about my prospects of finding another partner -- especially because I am no longer the "cute young thing" I once was.
A few days ago, I was at a local wildlife park and struck up a conversation with a pleasant senior couple. They looked as though they had been married more than 50 years, but they happily informed me they were on their honeymoon! When we finished our chat, the woman said to her husband, "I guess we'd better be going, baby," and off they went, hand-in-hand.
It just goes to show that it's never too late for love to blossom! -- WILLING TO WAIT IN NOVA SCOTIA
DEAR WILLING TO WAIT: I'll say! My lovely cousin Suzie is being married in about two weeks after 26 years as a widow. It never is too late for love to blossom -- all it takes is a seed of friendship and a couple who decide they're ready to make a commitment.
Yes, I know, not happy news like I promised. But that’s not the happy news. The happy news is, yes, love still exists in this world, whether it’s found in the 7th grade…or at 97.
So, don’t stop believing in love, please. It’s out there – and it’s very real.
I feel that many people put a time limit on finding love. Some people have a “to-do list” for their life – get married by 25, have kids by 30, etc. Instead, stop looking. Maybe if people stopped trying to force love so it would fit into the nice little box they planned for themselves, divorce wouldn’t happen at such a high rate. Love doesn’t care about the time table. Love is so much more than a status.
And maybe, if people were willing to work through their problems instead of just giving up, divorce wouldn’t be so high either. If you see two people truly in love, it doesn’t mean they never fight. No, it just means they work through the fights. They make the most out of their struggles.
Love is possible. It takes work, but it is possible. If you have found love, don’t think about the statistics. Instead, change the statistics. Don’t spend your life fearing that you will become part of the 50 or 60%. My Aunt Michele and Uncle Mark have been together since the 7th grade. Yes, the 7th grade – almost 40 years. And they are still as in love as ever. They have proven to me that love can last forever at any age. We just need to stop giving up when the road isn’t easy, because…news flash…the best things in life aren’t easy.
And if you haven’t found love yet or lost love somewhere down the road, don’t give up. Don’t let it bring you down. Don’t think you’ll never find it or you’ll never find it again. Just live your life and let love find you, because love comes when you least expect it. My parents showed me this. The last thing they were looking for was love when they met each other in their mid-30’s. They were both divorced, and the concept of “love” seemed more like a myth. But my mom never would have met my father if it wasn’t for her ex-husband. Her ex-husband’s sister, in fact, set the two of them up on a blind date. My dad worked with her husband, and my mom, well, she used to be married to her brother. And…the rest is history. All the decisions they made in life, the good and the bad, led them to eachother. You never know when you’ll meet the person you will someday marry. Maybe it’s a stranger on an elevator or at your local café. Or maybe you’ll meet through a past relationship, showing you that something you may have once regretted did, in fact, happen for a reason.
I’m going to share with you a letter to “Dear Abby” that was featured in the Oakland Press (view the original article at http://www.uexpress.com/dearabby/) . It showed me that love really has no time limit, and it brought a smile to my face:
DEAR ABBY: I am 48 and recently divorced from my husband of 25 years. Like others in my age group, I worry about my prospects of finding another partner -- especially because I am no longer the "cute young thing" I once was.
A few days ago, I was at a local wildlife park and struck up a conversation with a pleasant senior couple. They looked as though they had been married more than 50 years, but they happily informed me they were on their honeymoon! When we finished our chat, the woman said to her husband, "I guess we'd better be going, baby," and off they went, hand-in-hand.
It just goes to show that it's never too late for love to blossom! -- WILLING TO WAIT IN NOVA SCOTIA
DEAR WILLING TO WAIT: I'll say! My lovely cousin Suzie is being married in about two weeks after 26 years as a widow. It never is too late for love to blossom -- all it takes is a seed of friendship and a couple who decide they're ready to make a commitment.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Happiness myths & truths- webMD. -Kristy
I am very under the weather so I am going to do things a little differently this post. Instead of my own story, I am going share an interesting article from webMD about happiness. I hope you enjoy & please send healthy wishes and thoughts my way!
Here is the link:
http://www.webmd.com/balance/features/happiness-6-myths-and-truths
Here is the link:
http://www.webmd.com/balance/features/happiness-6-myths-and-truths
Friday, November 6, 2009
Stanley Cups - by Monica
View the orginal Free Press article at: http://www.freep.com/article/20091017/NEWS05/910170308/1007/NEWS05/Whimsical--Bra-Show--serious-about-fighting-breast-cancer
Photo credit: Free Press Susan Tusa/DFP
I bet this wasn’t what you were expecting when you read “Stanley Cups.” Yes, these are a different kind of cups made by Diane Takacs. This bra is a part of an exhibit of several decorated bras called “The Bra Show” at Janice Charach Gallery at the Jewish Community Center in West Bloomfield, Michigan.
The show started Oct. 14 and runs through Dec. 17. Once the show is no longer opened to the public, the bras will be sold at an auction. The proceeds will go to Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital's Charach Cancer Treatment Center to help fight breast cancer.
Some of the bras on display are a bra adorned with M&Ms, a Michigan/Michigan State bra, a bra made up of multi-colored crayons and a bra with a red boa attached and Madonna’s face painted on it.
One of the bras was decorated by Peter Soronen, who grew up in Farmington Hills and now designs for celebrities like Michelle Obama.
What a fun way to help fight breast cancer!
If you would like to attend the exhibit, the Jewish Community Center is located at 6600 W. Maple Road. The gallery is open Monday through Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., 10a.m. to 7p.m. on Thursday, and noon to 4p.m. on Sunday.
Photo credit: Free Press Susan Tusa/DFP
I bet this wasn’t what you were expecting when you read “Stanley Cups.” Yes, these are a different kind of cups made by Diane Takacs. This bra is a part of an exhibit of several decorated bras called “The Bra Show” at Janice Charach Gallery at the Jewish Community Center in West Bloomfield, Michigan.
The show started Oct. 14 and runs through Dec. 17. Once the show is no longer opened to the public, the bras will be sold at an auction. The proceeds will go to Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital's Charach Cancer Treatment Center to help fight breast cancer.
Some of the bras on display are a bra adorned with M&Ms, a Michigan/Michigan State bra, a bra made up of multi-colored crayons and a bra with a red boa attached and Madonna’s face painted on it.
One of the bras was decorated by Peter Soronen, who grew up in Farmington Hills and now designs for celebrities like Michelle Obama.
What a fun way to help fight breast cancer!
If you would like to attend the exhibit, the Jewish Community Center is located at 6600 W. Maple Road. The gallery is open Monday through Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., 10a.m. to 7p.m. on Thursday, and noon to 4p.m. on Sunday.
Monday, November 2, 2009
St. Jude's - by Kristy
So when brainstorming what I wanted to write about today I thought about some current events in the news and in my life. This Wednesday I am going to be participating in an event to help raise money and create awareness for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. It is without a doubt a passion of mine and one of my favorite organizations. Upon graduation I would be thrilled to work for them either in Public Relations or fundraising.
St. Jude is one of the world's premier pediatric cancer research centers. Its mission is to find cures for children with cancer and other catastrophic diseases through both research and treatment. Throughout the years they have helped dramatically increase survival rates for some dangerous diseases.
St. Jude is the only hospital where families never pay for treatment that is not covered by insurance. No child is ever denied treatment because of a family's inability to pay.
To me St. Jude is the definition of hope. These children are all so amazing because they show tremendous strength and bravery despite the card life has dealt them. They are an inspiration and even though they are only young children - i admire them.
Here is a video clip to summarize. It's a clip of Ellen, my absolute favorite little girl in the world. She is a patient at St Jude, who is on the road to recovery. =)
St. Jude is one of the world's premier pediatric cancer research centers. Its mission is to find cures for children with cancer and other catastrophic diseases through both research and treatment. Throughout the years they have helped dramatically increase survival rates for some dangerous diseases.
St. Jude is the only hospital where families never pay for treatment that is not covered by insurance. No child is ever denied treatment because of a family's inability to pay.
To me St. Jude is the definition of hope. These children are all so amazing because they show tremendous strength and bravery despite the card life has dealt them. They are an inspiration and even though they are only young children - i admire them.
Here is a video clip to summarize. It's a clip of Ellen, my absolute favorite little girl in the world. She is a patient at St Jude, who is on the road to recovery. =)
Friday, October 30, 2009
Trick or treat, smell my feet, give me something good to eat -by Monica
Vampires, zombies and ghosts – oh my!
Yes, it’s that time of year again. Time to pull out the witch hats and vampire teeth for tomorrow night. Or the princess dresses and miniskirts for you less fiendish souls. Time to watch scary movies and, of course, eat lots and lots of chocolate.
Kristy Lapanowski said she pulls out the Mike Myers’ classics each Halloween (as in Mike Myers from the Halloween movies, not Austin Powers), but she also has a new favorite scary movie this year, trumping Halloween’s number one spot. “My favorite scary movie is Paranormal Activity because it was actually terrifying,” she said.
Paranormal Activity, the low-budget hyped up film this Halloween season, is about a couple who think there’s a demonic presence in their new home. And on the night of October 6, 2006, they set up a surveillance camera in their room, hoping to document this unknown presence. For those of you who don’t like predictable scary movies, this is definitely the scary movie for you. But if you are a scardey cat, as I am, or cherish your nightly sleep, I would recommend picking another movie when you’re at your local movie theatre.
“My one friend [who saw Paranormal Activity] made me stay with her until 1 a.m. because she was so scared. And she actually cried during the movie,” Richelle Payne, 23, said.
Payne likes a different type of scary movie though. She said her favorite scary movie is the original Psycho. “It doesn't hold much fear factor anymore but I love old horror flicks from the 60s. The black and white, the story lines, the bad editing. I can't get enough of it. And Psycho is just twisted for its time. A cross dressing man with his dead mother in the basement? Oh that’s awesome,” Payne said.
Felicia Guest, 21-year-old education major at Oakland University, said her favorite scary movie is Silence of the Lambs. “Anthony Hopkins can really keep you on the edge of your seat. He is an awesome actor,” Guest said.
Daniel Marley, 20, likes a different kind of cannibalistic movie – the kind of movie with the living dead (and no, I’m not talking about Twilight). “The best scary type movie has got to be Dawn of the Dead the remake. I’m sorry but getting chased down by something that just wants to bite you and eat you is really freaky,” Marley said.
Anjelica Jones, who turned 20 years old today on the day before Halloween, said her favorite scary movie is Amityville Horror. She recommends this movie for people who enjoy scary movies but not the gore that so often accompanies them. “It had really good acting and wasn’t so bloody and gory,” Jones said.
Allison Nemeth, 23, said when it comes to Halloween time, Casper, Hocus Pocus, Double Double Toil and Trouble and It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown are the only movies she can handle. “I am proud to admit I am a wimp and scary movies scare me to death. I'd rather enjoy the movie instead of hiding under the blankets!” Nemeth said.
There are also several ghoulish movies in theatres, other than Paranormal Activity, for the 2009 Halloween season:
- Cirque du Freak: the Vampire’s Assistant
- Halloween II
- Saw VI
- The Stepfather
- Zombieland
Now here are some pictures of Halloween decorations from around Michigan:
Ortonville, Mich. photo credit - Marilyn Drake
Oxford, Mich. photo credit - Monica Drake
Waterford, Mich. photo credit - Monica Drake
Armada, Mich. photo credit - Monica Drake
Auburn Hils, Mich. photo credit - Monica Drake
Yes, it’s that time of year again. Time to pull out the witch hats and vampire teeth for tomorrow night. Or the princess dresses and miniskirts for you less fiendish souls. Time to watch scary movies and, of course, eat lots and lots of chocolate.
Kristy Lapanowski said she pulls out the Mike Myers’ classics each Halloween (as in Mike Myers from the Halloween movies, not Austin Powers), but she also has a new favorite scary movie this year, trumping Halloween’s number one spot. “My favorite scary movie is Paranormal Activity because it was actually terrifying,” she said.
Paranormal Activity, the low-budget hyped up film this Halloween season, is about a couple who think there’s a demonic presence in their new home. And on the night of October 6, 2006, they set up a surveillance camera in their room, hoping to document this unknown presence. For those of you who don’t like predictable scary movies, this is definitely the scary movie for you. But if you are a scardey cat, as I am, or cherish your nightly sleep, I would recommend picking another movie when you’re at your local movie theatre.
“My one friend [who saw Paranormal Activity] made me stay with her until 1 a.m. because she was so scared. And she actually cried during the movie,” Richelle Payne, 23, said.
Payne likes a different type of scary movie though. She said her favorite scary movie is the original Psycho. “It doesn't hold much fear factor anymore but I love old horror flicks from the 60s. The black and white, the story lines, the bad editing. I can't get enough of it. And Psycho is just twisted for its time. A cross dressing man with his dead mother in the basement? Oh that’s awesome,” Payne said.
Felicia Guest, 21-year-old education major at Oakland University, said her favorite scary movie is Silence of the Lambs. “Anthony Hopkins can really keep you on the edge of your seat. He is an awesome actor,” Guest said.
Daniel Marley, 20, likes a different kind of cannibalistic movie – the kind of movie with the living dead (and no, I’m not talking about Twilight). “The best scary type movie has got to be Dawn of the Dead the remake. I’m sorry but getting chased down by something that just wants to bite you and eat you is really freaky,” Marley said.
Anjelica Jones, who turned 20 years old today on the day before Halloween, said her favorite scary movie is Amityville Horror. She recommends this movie for people who enjoy scary movies but not the gore that so often accompanies them. “It had really good acting and wasn’t so bloody and gory,” Jones said.
Allison Nemeth, 23, said when it comes to Halloween time, Casper, Hocus Pocus, Double Double Toil and Trouble and It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown are the only movies she can handle. “I am proud to admit I am a wimp and scary movies scare me to death. I'd rather enjoy the movie instead of hiding under the blankets!” Nemeth said.
There are also several ghoulish movies in theatres, other than Paranormal Activity, for the 2009 Halloween season:
- Cirque du Freak: the Vampire’s Assistant
- Halloween II
- Saw VI
- The Stepfather
- Zombieland
Now here are some pictures of Halloween decorations from around Michigan:
Ortonville, Mich. photo credit - Marilyn Drake
Oxford, Mich. photo credit - Monica Drake
Waterford, Mich. photo credit - Monica Drake
Armada, Mich. photo credit - Monica Drake
Auburn Hils, Mich. photo credit - Monica Drake
Monday, October 26, 2009
Puppies dressed as cats -by Kristy
Hey everyone! Today I just wanted to share a goofy video that is sure to put a smile on your face, no matter what kind of day you've been having.
"Puppies Dressed As Cats" - from Conan OBrien the tonight show on NBC
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v66dSin5Tlc
just follow the link ^
"Puppies Dressed As Cats" - from Conan OBrien the tonight show on NBC
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v66dSin5Tlc
just follow the link ^
Friday, October 23, 2009
Teenager with Down Syndrome is crowned homecoming king - by Monica
For my friend Mellissa’s 21st birthday party, Kristy and I, along with our friend Molly, went to Frankenmuth. For all you non-Michiganders out there, Frankenmuth is a touristy town about an hour and a half north of our campus at Oakland University. Frankenmuth is a town known for its cheese, beer, quaint shops and German restaurants (with the waiters and waitresses dressed in old-fashioned attire). We decided to dress up in sequins and high heeled boots for the special occasion and, for all of you newly informed readers, you probably aren’t surprised when I tell you that when we arrived at the bar, filled with locals in their jeans and sweat shirts, people blatantly stopped what they were doing and stared at us…and not in a friendly way either. We stuck out like four sore thumbs.
Saying we felt out-of-place was an understatement.
The local news was set to every TV. And, with not much else to do, we watched.
What was on made me forget completely about the locals, staring us down from head-to-foot with noses upturned, and it showed me that, while some people are rude and make fun of those different than they are, others embrace differences. And it made me feel selfish -- why was I so embarrassed about wearing a dress in a bar, a tangible item I could change as soon as I got back to our room, when there are people who get stared down wherever they go, and it’s not something they can take off.
Many times I hear about cruel kids making fun of those with disorders, students who are different than they are.
But not the kids at Fenton High School.
Tyler Fitzgerald is not your average student. He is so much more than that. He doesn’t let anything bring him down.
Fitzgerald was born with Down Syndrome, and, in October, he was voted homecoming king at Fenton High School. He is, obviously, one of the most popular guys in school and is also on his school’s football team. The homecoming queen had tears in her eyes as she talked about how far Fitzgerald has come and how honored she was to be sharing the court with him. Fitzgerald hopes to be an actor in Hollywood someday.
I don’t think anything can hold Fitzgerald down. He gives hope and inspiration to people everywhere to not let so-called differences hold them back from their dreams.
When many of us feel different, all we want to do is hide in a corner until it all goes away. But not Fitzgerald. He makes the most out of life and doesn’t care what people think. And his fellow classmates love him for it.
I don’t know about you, but I’ll be looking for Fitzgerald on the silver screen someday.
Saying we felt out-of-place was an understatement.
The local news was set to every TV. And, with not much else to do, we watched.
What was on made me forget completely about the locals, staring us down from head-to-foot with noses upturned, and it showed me that, while some people are rude and make fun of those different than they are, others embrace differences. And it made me feel selfish -- why was I so embarrassed about wearing a dress in a bar, a tangible item I could change as soon as I got back to our room, when there are people who get stared down wherever they go, and it’s not something they can take off.
Many times I hear about cruel kids making fun of those with disorders, students who are different than they are.
But not the kids at Fenton High School.
Tyler Fitzgerald is not your average student. He is so much more than that. He doesn’t let anything bring him down.
Fitzgerald was born with Down Syndrome, and, in October, he was voted homecoming king at Fenton High School. He is, obviously, one of the most popular guys in school and is also on his school’s football team. The homecoming queen had tears in her eyes as she talked about how far Fitzgerald has come and how honored she was to be sharing the court with him. Fitzgerald hopes to be an actor in Hollywood someday.
I don’t think anything can hold Fitzgerald down. He gives hope and inspiration to people everywhere to not let so-called differences hold them back from their dreams.
When many of us feel different, all we want to do is hide in a corner until it all goes away. But not Fitzgerald. He makes the most out of life and doesn’t care what people think. And his fellow classmates love him for it.
I don’t know about you, but I’ll be looking for Fitzgerald on the silver screen someday.
Monday, October 19, 2009
what is happiness? - by Kristy
Generally speaking, what is happiness? Merriam-Webster defines happiness as:
Main Entry: hap·pi·ness
Pronunciation: \ˈha-pē-nəs\
Function: noun
Date: 15th century
1 obsolete : good fortune : prosperity2 a : a state of well-being and contentment : joy b : a pleasurable or satisfying experience3 : felicity, aptness
However; we all have our own specific ideas of what we view as happiness. And we all have our own specific people and things that can make us happy. When you're a little kid you see happiness as one thing: the opposite of sad. Kids usually feel happy or they feel sad. It is not until we grow up that we realize the true complexity of the word. How it's meaning is widely varied across person to person. There is obvious commonality for being happy, but also many variations.
I view happiness as feeling loved. In knowing that you have people there for you no matter what life throws your way. It's a feeling of simplicity. I am most happy when I am not plagued with worry or stress. When I am comfortable and surrounded by friends and family. There are so many different things that make me happy, which could be a whole other entry in itself. :)
And to prove my point that everyone has a different feeling of happiness I asked a couple people to define it and this is what was said (direct quotes) :
Pronunciation: \ˈha-pē-nəs\
Function: noun
Date: 15th century
1 obsolete : good fortune : prosperity2 a : a state of well-being and contentment : joy b : a pleasurable or satisfying experience3 : felicity, aptness
However; we all have our own specific ideas of what we view as happiness. And we all have our own specific people and things that can make us happy. When you're a little kid you see happiness as one thing: the opposite of sad. Kids usually feel happy or they feel sad. It is not until we grow up that we realize the true complexity of the word. How it's meaning is widely varied across person to person. There is obvious commonality for being happy, but also many variations.
I view happiness as feeling loved. In knowing that you have people there for you no matter what life throws your way. It's a feeling of simplicity. I am most happy when I am not plagued with worry or stress. When I am comfortable and surrounded by friends and family. There are so many different things that make me happy, which could be a whole other entry in itself. :)
And to prove my point that everyone has a different feeling of happiness I asked a couple people to define it and this is what was said (direct quotes) :
- Happiness is family!!!!
- Happiness to me is being secure enough with my life to not let disappointments bother me. Family, also makes me happy, because i know that for the most part, they offer me a kind of security blanket so i know i have something to fall back on, and disappointments can't break me as easily.
- Happiness is someone you love, a cuddly puppy, a warm blanket, financial stability, and sunshine. :-)
- Happiness is that feeling of warmth and comfort when you're with the person who makes it all okay. Happiness is laughing with my niece. Children have true happiness.
I encourage everyone to take a second out of their busy day and stop to think about what YOU think happiness is. And I hope you can appreciate that thought and let it put a smile on your face.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Welcome to our blog =]
Willie Nelson said, “Once you replace negative thoughts with positive ones, you’ll start having positive results.”
Both positive and negative things happen every day. It’s a part of life. But why, as humans, do we focus so intently on the bad things that happened during the day instead of the hundred little good things? Most people harbor the mistakes and regrets of their past more than enjoying the moment instead. We’re all guilty of this.
Don’t misunderstand us, we’re not naïve. News isn’t always good. And the purpose of this blog is not to keep you in the dark, thinking we live in a land filled with only rainbows and ponies. The negative is a part of life. But it seems we sometimes forget that the positive is a part of life too. You can hear negative news anywhere, whether on your local television station or through a friend’s gossip. While the negative news seems to greatly overpower the positive, this is not true. The negative news is just, for some reason, reported on more often.
So, we, Monica Drake and Kristy Lapanowski, decided to make this blog, under the alias of “Miss Inspire,” to bring a little bit of “rainbows and ponies” into people’s lives to counteract with the prevalent “black holes” served to us by the rest of the media. The media does a good job at extensively covering the negative aspects of the world. So, we took it upon ourselves to cover the happy and inspirational news. Every Monday and Friday, we’ll give you a dose of “warm-fuzzies,” a feeling you might not have realized the news was possible to give.
About the bloggers:
Monica Drake is 21 years old and currently a senior journalism major with a minor in psychology at Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan. She interns for the Oakland Post, the campus newspaper, and has previously interned at the Lake Orion Review (Lake Orion's community newspaper) and Tschetter and Associates (a public relations company for hospitals). Her favorite books are The Host by Stephenie Meyer and Message in a Bottle by Nicholas Sparks.
Kristy Lapanowski is 21 years old and a senior at Oakland University. She is a communications major, interested in journalism work. She is currently an intern at the Oakland Post and is public relations co-chair for the sorority Phi Sigma Sigma. Her three favorite things are: iced coffee, her blackberry, and hockey.
Both positive and negative things happen every day. It’s a part of life. But why, as humans, do we focus so intently on the bad things that happened during the day instead of the hundred little good things? Most people harbor the mistakes and regrets of their past more than enjoying the moment instead. We’re all guilty of this.
Don’t misunderstand us, we’re not naïve. News isn’t always good. And the purpose of this blog is not to keep you in the dark, thinking we live in a land filled with only rainbows and ponies. The negative is a part of life. But it seems we sometimes forget that the positive is a part of life too. You can hear negative news anywhere, whether on your local television station or through a friend’s gossip. While the negative news seems to greatly overpower the positive, this is not true. The negative news is just, for some reason, reported on more often.
So, we, Monica Drake and Kristy Lapanowski, decided to make this blog, under the alias of “Miss Inspire,” to bring a little bit of “rainbows and ponies” into people’s lives to counteract with the prevalent “black holes” served to us by the rest of the media. The media does a good job at extensively covering the negative aspects of the world. So, we took it upon ourselves to cover the happy and inspirational news. Every Monday and Friday, we’ll give you a dose of “warm-fuzzies,” a feeling you might not have realized the news was possible to give.
About the bloggers:
Monica Drake is 21 years old and currently a senior journalism major with a minor in psychology at Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan. She interns for the Oakland Post, the campus newspaper, and has previously interned at the Lake Orion Review (Lake Orion's community newspaper) and Tschetter and Associates (a public relations company for hospitals). Her favorite books are The Host by Stephenie Meyer and Message in a Bottle by Nicholas Sparks. Kristy Lapanowski is 21 years old and a senior at Oakland University. She is a communications major, interested in journalism work. She is currently an intern at the Oakland Post and is public relations co-chair for the sorority Phi Sigma Sigma. Her three favorite things are: iced coffee, her blackberry, and hockey.
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