Rewarding and Rejoicing!

You know some days you wake up and have a little more "pep" in your step than others. Today might be one of them!

last night I had a great night with my friends Jessi and Katie, I have met them through working with the Special Olympics, I am so grateful for whatever reason I have been placed to help out with this awesome group of people! Jessi lovesthe whole criminal justice system and would love to arrest you. Trust me when I grow up I really want to be policewoman. We have a good connection. So A real nice Trooper decided to give a tour!

I am just so happy that I have the ability to make a difference in peoples lives. I enjoy making somebody else happy. It amazes me when people say, "how do you find all this time" or "you are so busy"
I'm really not , and if I sat at home I would lose my mind !

I love Volunteers, you hold a special place in my big heart. It is rewarding and that is why I rejoice in what I do!

What's Up Doc?!

Well today is National Doctors Day and take it from someone who worries about every bump, bruise, cough and pain, I have met with Many a doctor!
Men and Women in white coats make me dizzy, I do not like the smell of a hospital, and a doctors appointment for a simple check-up puts me in a world of anxiety that you could never imagine.

I have been blessed with good health, at least I think so, except for my little scare with an abnormal mammogram last year. THANK GOD for Dr Brown, walked me through every little step. So Dr. Brown today is just for YOU. I'm sure my friend Cindy Castner would say the EXACT same thing.

I also have to send a special thank you out to the great doctors that took part in the First Annual GET YOUR REAR IN GEAR event last night at Classic Harley Davidson. All about colon cancer, survivors, doctors, nurses, employees of the Doctors office, folks from the Am. Cancer society and individuals who just wanted more information.

There were a panel of folks including a colon cancer survivor. Ruth. She is awesome!

Ruth. A Colon Cancer Survivor

The other Doctors who spoke out last evening :


Dr Frank Carter:  from Colorectal Surgical Associates. (cute as a button) went to college with Katie Couric! spoke of the surgical procedures

Dr Paul Levy:   spoke of Prevention and screening (I was able to understand everything! NO BIG WORDS)

Dr John Altomere :  great guy with a very cool attitude, these are the caring hands I would want to be in. spoke of signs, symptoms, and diagnosis

Dr. Lee Tuanquin (doogie houser) He is a radiation Oncologist  at St Joe's  He certainly made you feel as though there is plenty of GOOD help out there, its learning about every little thing you can. Plus he laughed at my silly jokes when I spoke, so I give him 5 stars.

And in closing my new friend Ruth Dierolf made me understand how your faith, your friends, your family and your physician's are ALL key players in the game of life. The strength this woman shows the world and her ability to GIVE BACK is what its all about :)






"Captain Fundraiser" and "Johnny Law"

I am the Queen of fundraising, I am the Captain of the Ship, the Pilot of the plane. Oh I could go on because I have my groove back on, my mojo is rising, perhaps the kick of the coffee is finally doing its job, all Scott (my morning show partner) can hear is the tap, tap, tapping of the keyboard...my mind is going much faster then the typing. Perhaps I should just make videos instead? Nahhhh.

Ok, so lets see, already this morning I had to make a call to find a softball field for a fundraiser for my friends at the Special Olympics...(I LOVE YOU GUYS!!) they are so great, I am thinking of becoming a permanent fixture with their endeavors. Anyway, that's done. Field found, now its on the finding more celebrities for the day, The date is all set for May 14th, I will keep you posted I promise. in the meantime please text your vote today  JH06 to 366948.  Tomorrow I am taking Jessi and Kate on a tour of the State Police Barracks In Hamburg and I'm giving Jessi my Safety Club bug buddy "johnny Law" do you like him??? I made him at Build a bear once and I knew I would meet that somebody special to pass it on to!

Johnny Law

I'm working on my March Of Dimes team for the Walk for Babies event, the date is Sunday May 1st. a 3 mile walk. AND....if you are on team Y-102 you receive an I walked with Team Y-102 tshirt from Weikel Sportswear Screenprinting and Embroidery. All the details are at http://www.wrfy.com/  click the on air jackie&scott link.

And finally tonight I am getting my REAR IN GEAR at Classic Harley Davidson Leesport so you can learn more about Colon Cancer. There will be vendors, dinner, speakers and giveaways, all for the small fee of $5.00!!  Seating is limited. please call 610-921-2329 for more information. You can never have too much knowledge about Cancer. I encourage you to introduce yourself to me, otherwise we will NEVER get to know one another !

Have a fantastic day in the sun.....Enjoy and be blessed!

I Dont like Mondays

It's a song from the Boomtown Rats.  I DON'T LIKE MONDAYS.   George Stoddard used to play it all the time...and I heard it in my head this morning when I woke up. Same routine, alarm goes off, shower, pack some breakfast and out the door, its the last week in March and I am still using my seat warmers!! UGh!

A very emotional weekend all around, there is no use in continuing to put my head down, this is what I try and preach to my family and friends. Hold your head up, in the worst of times you count on your faith, in the best of times...give thanks.

Although I didn't think this blog would be so personal , you have no idea just how therapeutic it is. (for me anyway!)

Today my daughter picks out her college courses, pretty amazing huh? I think so. The world doesn't stop when the alarm goes off on Mondays, even when we don't like them. I always seem to find the good in anything....even in a chilly March Monday Morning.

Lets all have a great week. Let it be known, I stepped on the scale this morning which could be yet another reason today sucks!  Going to have my banana, some water, a granola bar and an apple now.  :)

Empty tank.

Blank.....my stare, my thoughts, my heart.

Here we come to the end of a tragic weekend in the Muhlenberg area. You didn't even have to know Richie , but if you heard of the devastation that took place Friday afternoon to a 16 year old boy. The pit of your stomach would feel the same way.

All I can do is see the sadness that is left in his friends and family. Eric and I went to church this morning, I will stay true to my colors and how my parents raised me, as long as we have our faith we can get through ANYTHING. You cant help but look at the stained glass windows, the Cross, and hear the angelic voices of the choir and somehow know that Richie will be just fine now.

I know tomorrow is another day, no sense in getting weaker, just growing stronger. Especially for the teens affected by all of this.

I was filling up my gas tank today and pretty much felt like my own personal tank had been on E. after church it was a bit more filled up.

Still praying and trying to understand things a little bit better. 

On to Monday.......

Richie

Friday afternoon March 25 2011

John and I were driving to pick Holly up from school on just an ordinary day, it was cloudy, cold and I was excited to know I had no real plans for the weekend. I would be home bound.

As we looked down one particular street there were orange cones blocking it, a coroner, the police and a hearse. It wasn't good. And we knew exactly whose house it was. Putting the pieces together you can see where this story is going.

This is Richie, 16 years old. That smile says everything. His dedication to his friends. His short lived 16 years as a son, a brother, a young man who wanted to please the world but not enough energy to carry on his will to live.
Not only my son, but numerous young men and women who attend Muhlenberg high school knew Richie, who are now asking hundreds of questions, some of them cant be answered. We think to ourselves WHY? How could things be a little different to make someone's daily struggles easier?

I spoke to Eric last night, I just tried to tell him that being 16 isn't so easy. But it will get better, its like looking through foggy glasses at the moment, but things do work themselves out. And the glass does get clear. I told him that there are so many decisions to make, choices to make, a future to unravel. For whatever reason Richie took his life, he left behind friends and family that are in mourning, parents who are thinking of how to make it better on his friends. I can see this group of kids bonding and never forgetting the legacy of Richie, they will tell each other stories, they will laugh, they will cry, they will grow, but one thing for sure is they will never forget. "The CREW" as they called each other. They have gone through alot. 

Its a tragedy my young friends. But talk to your parents, one another, lean on each other, never lose your faith. That's the most important piece of the puzzle.

As I lay in bed last night thinking and remembering what I knew of Richie, I came up with that little phrase just for you Richie.

"A heavy heart can't always be heard, but your beat will stay strong"

The sun shines today, the birds sing, your lives live on kids. The road may become narrow, but you have all the tools get where you need to be.

RIP Ritchie. You are loved.  3-25-11

I GOT THE MUSIC IN ME

Ever since I was a little girl I would use my hairbrush as a makeshift microphone, stand on my bed, look in the mirror and sing songs from my Mickey Mouse record player. At some point I knew the Entertainment bug that bit me was never going to heal with a band-aid.  I dreamed of being ANNIE, I would sing "It's the hard knock life" at the top of my lungs. And then came my Shawn Cassidy fasination, I wanted to live with the Brady Bunch and visit the Cunninghams on Happy Days.  Instead my life in Pottsville led me down to Centre St and WPPA.

I could escape to any kind of music I wanted to, rock, country, soul, pop, and I now had my own microphone. A real one , I could sing loud and no one would care, I could dance if I wanted to, and no matter how sad I was, or mad, I could turn that microphone on and make everyone around me happy, you could hear my smile and feel the energy. That's what its all about. That's what music does for me. I love, love, love listening to Billy Joel and The Eagles. I love my Michael Buble and Harry Connick, Frank Sinatra, I miss you. And PINK you rock my world especially when I am really having a bad day.

I thank God EVERYDAY for the talent he has given me, for my voice which has been selected and voted upon for a phone sex operator ( I declined) I know whats on the other end of that phone....EW. I thank God for the ability to brighten someones day with a song...it can make the biggest difference, I love watching people sing in the car, I love to answer the phone and play the song that will turn someones day around.

I got the music in me, I always have. Try it. And dance while you're at it, its a good combination.

enjoy.

THE PINK COMB

Today's blog comes very natural....as does all of the thoughts that seem to overflow from my mind on a daily basis, (there is alot going on in my brain)

Anyway, we all start the day with a different routine, mine starts with a pink comb and If I can't find my pink comb I wont leave the house, this morning I could not find my pink comb. It's really Granny's pink comb.



Granny's comb

   For the past five years you have to understand there has been a major loss in my heart. The passing of "Granny", anyone who knows me, knows the relationship I had with Granny. When she passed away she took a tiny piece of my heart, but she left me with her feisty attitude and yes, headstrong decisions. She had a certain way about her, whatever was on her mind, was also on the tip of her tongue, and she never held back what she wanted to say and you always knew just how she felt, even if you didn't want to hear it, she would let you know.

When I use that pink comb, I think of her everyday, her smile, the way we would listen to Neil Diamond and Barry Mannilow, We would watch  Magnum PI and JAG , all of the sleepovers at her house, our shopping trips, long walks, when I got my license at 16 we would always go on road trips and I would ALWAYS get lost, we laughed so much , I would crack her up so bad she would have tears in her eyes. She hugged me more than anyone in my life and ALWAYS reminded me how loved I was.  Granny never got her license, never got re-married after my Pappy died, she was a widow for 30 years. She was my "go-to girl" when my mom and dad said "no" Granny always said "sure"  She would always say, "When I die, you'll miss me" but you see, I never thought there would be a life without Granny.  I have her nose. I can be stubborn, I can have a temper, I am strong-willed, I am determined, all of these just like Granny.  I have a Pink Comb and every morning when I run it through my hair I can still hear her telling me everything will work out. No matter what my problem was, big or small. She would always make it better.

I found the Pink Comb under my towel, but when I could not find it my heart started racing and I almost woke the entire house up. Thanks Granny...I know you're still around me.

BREAKFAST LUNCH SNACK SUPPER

So sorry I am blogging a bit late today, I am on an email blast to co-workers regarding how things are run in this building. BUT a big shout out to Beth S. who sent me a facebook message asking me if she missed todays blog!

Let's dish about something we all LOVE! FOOD, and MY PERSONAL FAVORITES. A special thank you to Becky Holland for turning me on to Pampered Chef and the great items that keep me happy in my kitchen.
Please understand that I try not to spend alot of time cooking but when I do, it seems to make everyone happy for the most part. I do not measure, I use my own measuring cup of  "OK" "GOOD" and "I WANT MORE"

Breakfast. Banana (everyday) Apple...either a granola bar or Quaker Oats with blueberries, strawberries or a few Chocolate Chips. I also LOVE my Chobani Greek yogurt. Pineapple and Mango are awesome.

Lunch, I like making a salad which consists of iceburg lettuce, carrots (love that PC Chopper) red onion, cucumber, avacado, cauliflower, some grilled chicken, or tuna, cranberries and Goat Cheese. Now you are going to wait and see which fatty salad dressing I eat.....I make my own.
1/4 cup of red wine vinegar
1/4 cup of EVO Extra virgin olive oil
Garlic
Oregano
salt
pepper
yum!!!

Snack time....I like having grapes available and yes I  eat junk..dont think I dont grab some oreos every now and again....SHHHHHHH, dont tell, and make sure you brush your teeth after sneaking the Double stuff Oreos, dead give-away everytime.

Supper: this is hands down a Favorite in my house. I always love having that grilled chicken on hand first of all if you dont have a garlic press (pampered chef) GET ONE, nothing tastes better in a receipe then fresh garlic.
1/2 cup of olive oil
salt
pepper
couple cloves of fresh garlic
parsly
half a jar of sundried tomatoes
chopped cooked chicken
broccoli

Boil water for your favorite pasta...wheat or regular, you know which is better!

mix it up......and ENJOY. I also throw on some mozzerella cheese at the end :) awesome,

Im not big on dessert, I was at one time, but I know what its doing to that area around my waist which will become a tire if I let it.

I await 9pm for my sleepytime tea and spoil myself with some honey in my cup of tea:)

I want to share this website for awesome ideas. There are plenty of websites for calorie counting, exercise and helpful hints for dieting. I use this one alot. Thank you Heather S. for this.

http://www.hungrygirl.com/

UNEXPECTED TEARDROPS

Yesterday I was coming home from the mall and in front of me was a school bus. I sat at the stop sign in our neighborhood and watched the 6, 7, and 8 year olds run off of the bus. I took notice to their smiles, their little feet running to greet their parents and the only worry they had on their minds is what the after school snack will be.

I sat in my car with tears coming down my cheeks wishing I could go back to when my two were so innocent. Am I losing my mind? Or is this normal? I can still hear people reminding me how quickly these years go by. I'm not saying I want another little one around....I'm simply saying that the years go by so quickly and before you know it they are turning 17 and 19 this year. I can't believe it.

When I offer to tell this story to Katie and Eric they don't quite get it just yet. I grab every hug I can, I still sit at the window when I know they will be coming home from school. Occasionally I will make them a special after school snack. Today I am going to surprise them with Blueberry Muffins. They will look at me like I'm crazy half the time. But I know in time they too will have families of their own and someday they will "get it"

I didn't expect those little tears yesterday, but seeing Katie and Eric grow into Healthy, Happy young adults I suppose its worth tears of happiness.  I just miss picking them up, and having them around me all of the time.

K&E...May you always be reminded of the unconditional love from my heart forever.

YORKVILLE

Oh the good ole days! Yorkville is where I grew up. The West side of town. This blog is dedicated to my Yorkville friends. And my Yorkville school teachers, Miss Lewars celebrated a birthday last week and it reminded me of one of the nicest teachers. along with Mrs Alban, Miss Fox (Mrs. Purcell) Mrs Foreman ( who told me I had a VIVID imagination in 3rd grade!) and Mrs Rubendall. I sang 16 tons at the Fourth grade talent show.

There are a few things that you have to think of when people say YORKVILLE
The Yorkville Hose Company
The Yorkville School
The Yorkville Drug store.
The Yorkville Block Party
Browns Candy Store
Barrets Candy Store (thanks Joe!)
Burger King
Coney Island
Acme
Rotary Playground

So many great memories.  Crushing on every one of my brothers friends...especially Johnny W.  I grew up with my dad and brother firefighters at the Yorkville Hose Company, it didn't matter what time of the night it was, you would hear that whistle blow (and we lived 4 houses away) and my dad and brother would race down the steps and RUN to the "Hosie" , scanners would be left on as loud as one can imagine, they were dedicated and honored to be lifesavers and I will be forever proud of them.

The neatest thing is my three best friends all lived within a stones throw from my house. Heather, Debbie and Ginene. We had the BEST times, and of course we STILL do. Another slumber party planned for April in the Poconos!

Summers were spent at Rotary playground, I used to steal my dads loose change he would leave on his dresser and go to the concession stand and then sit and watch Economy supply and wait for Billy Derbes to bat. We never really got into any trouble. We had sleepovers all the time. We would swing on the swings and at the end of summer the Yorkville Block party meant it was time to get ready for another school year.

Winters we would wish for snow days so we could go sleigh riding down the Rotary playground hill or better yet the cemetery hill, we would literally start at the top by sharp mountain and zig zag in and out of tomb stones...seriously,who does that?

I was a good kid, ended up dating an East side boy by the time high school rolled around,  (Pat D.)but it was all good...My dad came from the East side.

Things have changed...alot. But one thing that remains the same is the  YORKVILLE BLOCK PARTY. its a reunion of friends from the past and you always know one thing is for sure, you might not see or talk to one another all year but that second Tuesday in August is penciled in year after year. Bleenies, bean soup and bingo...its the best.

Yorkville was a great place.

Dicellos, Keitsocks, Wollyung, Osts, Nabholtz, Scheibelhuts, Speece, Sams, Bartons, Gardners, Reilys, Burns, Orlowskys, Cresinas,Hahners, Cavanaughs & Snyders ,Aungst, Russos, Joyce, Minchoffs, Greenburgs, Laplaca, Steinberger, shylan, Moran, Bottos, Delany, Shuman (all 20 of them) Norkus, Kauffmans, Perez, the list goes on.....be sure to add your name to this list of  "Yorkville" kids .

We had a good life, that's for sure. I wouldn't change a thing.

SPRING 2011

Welcome Spring! Its going to be a great season, I happen to love this time of the year, still deciding which I like more, fall or spring. Today the sun shining and birds chirping sort of make me feel like waking up isn't such a chore.  I'm excited about cleaning up the grill and tasting that grilled steak and chicken soon!

Well my weekend whirl has come to an end. Last night was great with a prime rib dinner at VIVA with the ladies, the food there is very good. and the Sexy alligator Martini was so delicious I knew  that one was enough for me. Catching up with my lovely ladies Kim, Lora, Becky, and Sharon was overdue, its so hard coming up with a day we all have no plans. ESPECIALLY Becky...I think I need to have a day of Becky blogging , if you think you are busy she has little twin girls and an adorable little red headed boy AND a teenage daughter..AND the greatest pampered chef consultant EVER! Anyway, we were able to skate out of there and do a little dancing at GNA...wasn't nearly as much fun as dancing with the Uptown band on Friday. I think I was home a little before 11, not too late, and I was starting to lose my pizazz at that point.

I will celebrate the start of Spring in this order.

Coffee with Fox and Friends
Church
Pork Loin for Lunch
hang our window treatments in our newly painted room
food shop
go for a run

and then get ready for a full week of work.

Shoot for the moon * Reach for the stars

Saturday..... and I am guilty of moving slow on this day before Spring 2011, perhaps it was the workout with DAVID at Sunshine Wellness yesterday, there were five of us and we did an outdoor circuit for 50 minutes and some crazy ab workout that Ann requested., or perhaps it was the late Friday night!

At this time last year I was planning my wedding and getting ready to mail out my invites! What an awesome reflection.

Last night at The Crowne Plaza my husband and I had such a great time, we had dinner with Sharron and Steve (the food is great, as they are under new management) and at 9pm the music began, I wore heels so high I wasn't sure if my dance partner would need a ladder. The Uptown band performed EVERYTHING from Earth, Wind and Fire to Lady Gaga, I danced the night away. And John danced too...the really cool thing is I have seen guys dance like dorks.....he can dance with the best , and holds me like a dream during a slow song. perfect night.  Steve and Sharon left....I thought we were calling in an early night and then a few more friends show up...(lisa and Laurie) so more dancing to do!  At 1:00 am the last song played......and we were still there. What a great night.

This morning we cleaned, did laundry, john hung some pictures in our newly painted room....(it looks like something out of Home and Garden magazine) and we based the colors on the quilt my mom made us for a wedding gift.  Creme, Burgundy, and black....gorgeous.

Tonight its off to dinner with the ladies, we have been planning this dinner for literally months...Kim H, Becky H., Sharon, and Lora. Sometimes we come up for air, and sometimes we stop laughing, we cry together, share our lives, and cherish our friendship, no matter how busy we get, we make time for each other.

Don't forget tonight to Shoot for the moon tonight, the largest its been in 17 years! I prefer to reach for the stars, sparkling, shooting, shinning... Tomorrow is SPRING :)

SUNNY and 72

What a beautiful day ahead! SUNSHINE WELLNESS RESOURCES  is my first stop after work today....we are playing OUTSIDE ,a good run, a backpack filled with the TRX and a workout with the sun shining bright:)

I'm kind of at a loss today for words in my blog...seriously! Had an awesome run at Grings mill yesterday, one of my favorite places to be. It's on a run that I escape this sometimes cruel world...best therapy ever.
Had a wonderful overdue phone conversation with Mic Dallago last night, I really miss my P-ville friends. But we really aren't THAT far away.

Alex got his license....Eric is next....that will be 3 drivers...and 2 more to go in the next few years.

alex

So, tonight is date night.....The Uptown Band at the Crowne Plaza Hotel :) hope you are all recovering from St Patricks day!

Have a great weekend!

Luck or a blessing ?

An Old Irish Blessing

May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind always be at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face, and rains fall soft upon your fields. And until we meet again, May God hold you in the palm of His hand.

Happy St Patricks Day Everyone. Although all of us are not Irish, we celebrate with you ! I admire your ability to be Lucky and have the charm of sliding down rainbows while scoring your pot of Gold.

With my job I meet alot of different people on many different occasions....yesterday at a live remote broadcast it was the young man whose wife had suddenly passed away with a heart defect at the young age of 38, cleary he was heartbroken, and just needed to talk. 2 days ago a friend of mine started her email with :
"got the results of my cat scan today, the good news is the tumor in my abdomen is now the size of the pea, and the tumor on the outside of my lung has disappeared, the bad news is it shows 3 new spots on my  liver that are presumed to be cancer, as they show up as HOT SPOTS on the PET scan"
As I went on to read the story I was amazed by the positive attitude my friend had taken, she said she will continue to trust rather than question. No asking God "why me" or "how much longer"  Jane, you will get through this.

There is the co-worker whose mom has survived breast cancer and has one lung, as of now she is in the hospital recovering from a blot clot that formed above her knee to her abdomen, within hours she could;ve died. There is a reason for her many blessings.

One of my very best friends has found yet another lump on her breast. However it turns out to be a cyst.

We all know someone, we all have had many a story to tell...and we all count our blessings..Irish or not.

They may call themselves lucky, but they are all truly blessed. Never question Gods timing, there is a reason for everything.  Trust rather than question. Its so easy for me to say that now. Let these people be our examples of how to shine light on the dark.

Have a blessed day :) Irish or night, share your BLESSINGS...its not luck.

SPECIAL OLYMPICS OF BERKS COUNTY

 Smiling faces and New Friends!


Last night I attended a meeting for the Special Olympics of Berks County. I did not know anyone when I arrived , other then my new facebook friend Heather who contacted me to take part in this meeting so I could share my thoughts on a fundraiser for the Special Olympics which I knew very little about.  It didn't take long before my enthusiasm was brought to life with an incredible group of parents,  athletes,
volunteers and coaches who made me feel like a part of the group. Thanks Carrie!

HOW DID I GET INVOLVED?

The Reading Express Indoor football league  has asked me to be an honorary member of the smokin hot steam team,  (go ahead .....laugh now) they have changed the direction around a bit this year having each young lady be a part of public events with a sporty football style uniform....*yes, I have been fitted for mine*
All of the ladies have chosen a charity to represent, I have chosen SPECIAL OLYMPICS OF BERKS COUNTY in hopes of getting enough votes from you, to become Ambassador of the Year and reap the cash donation to be given to Special Olympics of Berks County.

HOW YOU CAN VOTE:

TEXT JH06 to 366948 

Of all the charities I have donated my time and efforts....Juvenile Diabetes, Make a Wish Foundation, Easter Seals, March Of Dimes, American Cancer Society, Autism Awareness, Greater Berks Food bank, Olivet Boys and Girls Club, Toys For Tots, and more, I have found that this will be the most rewarding of all. I am very excited to get going and YOU get to help!!!

IN THE WORKS:

****A celebrity softball game!!!! Date to be Announced

****SUNDAY May 15th Reading Express Football game......Make your donation that night and if we raise X amount of dollars I will be doing a round off, and straddle during halftime :)

WHAT I DIDNT KNOW:

Their athletes range in age from 8 to adult, which I didn't know! They participate in local, state, and international games through-out the year. Their program receives no government funding. Solely on donations from the community and fundraising.


HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO JOEY !!!

Jessica, Katie, me, Joey, & Michael



http://www.sopbc.org/
http://www.expressindoorfootball.com/
http://www.wrfy.com/



FOUR LEGS ARE BETTER THAN TWO

THIS IS BO

Today I am blogging about two very important individuals....they can't get mad at me for embarrassing them or saying things I shouldint. As a matter of fact, they wont have the chance to give their opinion, yell at me or tell me I said the wrong thing.  It's a shame because they have no voice to let anyone know what they want to say. Sure I know by the tone of their bark exactly what they want, a walk, a drink, a carrot (our dogs eat veggies as snacks) a hug, etc.


Bo gets up in the morning, comes in the bathroom and lays by the shower until I get out



I love our dogs. Bo and Clara.  I have always had dogs. Lassie, Heidi, Carter,(RIP) and now these two amazing friends. 
Thank you to my friend Donna Boyd who put Bo and I together, I wanted a boarder collie, and I wanted to adopt. between Jacquie Dormer and Donna Boyd (Pottsville) they can find you the perfect four legged partner. Adoption is the best way to go. Bo is filled with more love and compassion then most humans. I truly believe our dogs just might be human.

Bo and Clara love the holidays

Clara is my Husbands dog, she certainly doesn't look like a Clara...does she? Clarabell. A dear old couple needed to find a home for Clara and John was searching for a German Sheppard. She talks, I kid you not, this is the most vocal dog you will ever meet.
They are also two of the most loving dogs in the world. I love curling up with Bo, Clara doesn't really indulge in too much compassion , only first thing in the morning and when you come home. They both hate when people arrive at the door and hate it more when you leave. Bo is very, very family oriented. ( he likes his family....and that's it.) Clara.....she loves everyone.
If I lived on a farm, I would have 10 dogs. I love dogs, when I go for a jog, I always stop and spend a minute or two with the neighborhood furry friends.
Todays blog is a reminder to be kind to your family members with four legs. They don't have a voice, but they need love, they protect us, make us smile when no one else can and warm our hearts during the darkest moments of our lives.




CLARABELL

 If you have the chance to adopt a furry friend, I encourage you to do it. They will forever be grateful :)

MARCH MADNESS

How is everyone doing with your internal clock and the daylight savings change? Makes no nevermind to me. It's just as dark at 5am as it is at 4am.

Great title for todays blog. 14 days into March and the madness has begun. two phone calls from MTV over the weekend, they are persistant. And one dream that I called OPRAH and she answered the phone. I had no vodka or nyquil last night!

Friday night was great,  lovey and I went to dinner with Sharon and Major Steve, yes, I address him like that. He and my husband are so much alike so Sharon and I get to catch up on anything and everything while they dish on politics, soldiers, and their next cooked meal. The food is always excellent at Third and Spruce, and yes it was packed. John and Peg the owners always make sure their customers are happy:)  And from there ,off to support the Reading Express Indoor football team. The other nice thing about Sharon and Steve...they dont like late nights. Neither do we! Believe it or not, I am ready for bed on Friday nights at 10pm. So we made it to the third quarter, one beer and back home.

Saturday morning....BLAH....its the only adjective I can come up with to describe how I felt all day. Its my personal feeling of helplessness towards Japan and yet another Catastrophe. I tried really hard to take my medicine aka (go for a run) but it didnt do me any good. I cant help but think of all the lives lost and changed forever.  My thoughts moved on to the focus of my sons basketball game....love watching his athletic talents, he amazes me and he certainly doesnt get it from me. It was a hard loss to watch losing by 5 points. they played their hearts out.  Off to dinner at The Red Robin with my love and two friends Jim and Dave. Yes, we ate alot this weekend., it turned into a LATE night.

Sunday....church. (love sitting in my regular seat right behind Tom and Liz) do you have a regular church seat? its crazy right? Then food shop and cleaned. We are being tormented by all the kids because we told them we booked our flight for vacation but we wont tell them where they are going!!! Its great. its driving them insane. Its going to be a GREAT time for the 7 of us and I cant wait. Its really cool watching them turn into little adults.

Today....its already a good day and I'm exctied for a very long overdue lunch with my cousin Andrea, We have been planning this for months and she is only from Allentown!  Im already counting down the days til the weekend...I have informed loveypants we are going DANCING friday night to see the UPTOWN BAND at the Crowne plaza. Its worth practicing a few dance moves with him when I get home!

VENTING

Time to Spring into action. Spring ahead. Move Forward right?  I will in just a minute but I have to vent. Three weeks ago when I decided to blog for the next 365 days I promised myself I would not hold back about ANYTHING.  There is something bothering me so much that my day yesterday was ruined and I cant let today be a carbon copy. Excuse me, I WILL NOT let today be the same.

I will not mention any names, however there are certain people in our lives that we cross paths with that will be a part of our future,there are family members that make such an impact on our everyday life that it can make or break you, co-workers can fall into that category, complete strangers, and yes even close friends. This someone is bothering me so much that I may just have to throw up my hands and say...."you win", because no matter what, I'm always wrong.

I have done everything a person could possibly do for this individual.  From moments of their loneliness to being their greatest supporter. To them, I don't make enough money, I don't raise my children  the right way, I am looked down upon for not holding my first marriage together, I have only ever asked for support and ALOT of it, Support is free right? costs nothing. When you love someone that's what you do. Instead, the CONSTANT negativity has finally eaten a whole through my entire heart.  Our relationship has crumbled once and for all. You have hurt me for the final time.

A Christian will reach out  to someone in their darkest moments......do you seriously call yourself a Christian? I think you call yourself Proud, and look down upon others. Its a shame we are so different, I would give you my last dollar, I would talk for hours, I have looked up to you forever. I cant be broken anymore. I have come to far.

Some of you would get angry and let your anger be known, hold your breath, it doesn't matter, you will never win with this person, they are always right. Do you know anyone like this?

I'm going to get ready for church. Today will be a better day, I will look back on this day, and I will remember how you made me feel.  From now on I become numb to it. SPRING AHEAD. It does have a world of meaning, and I going to win.

Escaping.

What a beautiful day ahead......for us. For others, may we keep them in our prayers and never forget this tragic event in Hawaii and Japan.  Blame it on Global Warming. Nuclear meltdown? Can you imagine being caught in this nightmare? I do not know of anyone personally affected by this, but it affects all of us. It was the first thing that came to my mind when I woke up. The rescue teams sent to Japan, Fox News wondering what Mother Natures thought process was. 

We cannot question why them? Why now? why so tragic.  Its another day to move forward, but not forget the lives lost and the loss that some families will take years to piece back together. This is exactly what I mean when I talk about being so grateful for what you have. it docent matter if you have five friends or fifty. It doesn't matter if you have 10 pennies or 10 dollars. What matters is you woke up this morning with your life still intact.

200,000 people homeless ,9500 people missing from one town in Japan, one million people without water. Another Tsunami on  the way? Nuclear accidents. I have to turn the news off now, because it torments the hell out me as to how we can help the Red Cross with what they need .

I have to escape...This is a day (the perfect day) for a good run. I need more running friends, ones that live close by, or perhaps my choice of music  today EMINEM will help me escape to where I need to go.

be grateful, thankful, and when you are asked to help try not to be so selfish. You can only escape for so long and then its back to reality.

xo
j
Prayers

THE FINAL DECISION

Today's blog.....The decision has been made. I will not be taking part in any reality shows anytime soon. MTV you almost had me. Not this time.

Perhaps it was the family member that asked me if I was smoking crack when they read my blog, or maybe my friends that said my life would never be the same. Or perhaps it was just some good decision making on my own part realizing I have everything I have ever wanted, I do not want to "test the waters" or "take a chance"
I cannot spend my time thinking about something so useless when there are so many lives changing at this single moment in Japan and Hawaii. The lives lost, their life ever changing.


LATEST UPDATE: At least 60 dead after 23-foot tsunami strikes northern coast of Japan, washing away cars and damaging buildings, following a magnitude 8.9 earthquake. Tsunami waves hit Hawaii as coastal residents from SoCal to Oregon move to higher ground

Tragic. Mother Nature.....we wont question you, we beg of you to take a zoloft.

Prayers are with everyone this morning and in the days to come.

MTV REALITY DECISION

This decision isn't like should we have another baby, buy a new house or trade my family van in for a sporty little gas friendly two door car.  This decision will change our lives forever.
I hear about a reality show on MTV from Liz on FM97 (oddly enough through her facebook page) her status reads :  MTV is looking for quirky, crazy, loving large families, at least 2 siblings age 10-25..

Well....game on, I immediately told my story, identified each child, their age, etc. within 24 hours I get this email back:

Hope all is well! Thank you so much for the email. My name is Jordan Brodsky, and I am an Associate Producer at MTV. At your earliest convenience, please give me a call at ......... blah blah blah

I would love to hear more about you and your family.

so, there it is, I spoke to Jordan and he followed up with another email...its on to the video this weekend and taking photos.

One thing, once the camera start rolling , there is NO going back.....I will bet you I change my mind when I get down off my high. Its just that its out there, its attainable, its reality. However. I see what reality television has done to other couples. One thing I do not want is to ruin my marriage or my family. I have everything I want right now.....minus all the money. I think I have already answered my own question. I'm feeling a family meeting this weekend.

My parents would be a classic addition to the show. The kids are awesome, my husband so laid back, our x-spouses who date one another ( yes, you read that correctly) would hype things up, the dogs have great personalities, and my job just takes it to another level. 

Here is the latest email.....and as soon as it reads confidential that is as far as I can share.

Hello Jackie,

So great chatting with you! Attached are the questions and some helpful hints for the self-submission. Please also include the following:

blah blah blah ( you get the idea)

What would you do?

GIVE IT UP!!!

I'm not really sure WHY I always give it up. That is a great way to start today's blog isn't it? but giving it up feels good at the end of the day.

Give it up to your co-workers. Give it up to your neighbors. Give it up to strangers.

In most cases when you give it up, the end result keeps a smile on your face. Give it up big or small.

I'm giving it up to the Special Olympics.  "Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt. (Special Olympics Oath)

Everyone matters. Every voice. A person's a person no matter how small.  (Horton Hears a WHO!)

How old were you when you first gave it up? Did you pass it on? Did you do it again?

Give up just a little bit of your time....every little minute counts.

Thank you :)

www.expressindoorfootball.com/jh06



Seriously......can we have a little airbrush artwork here? Those bags under my eyes say...."yea, I wake up at the crack of dawn"

FAT Tuesday

It's not a celebration like your birthday, or Easter or Christmas. Shrove Tuesday, Fasnacht day, Doughnut day.

Growing up it was like a treat when I would come home from school, there were the doughnuts from Dunkin doughnuts on the table, all different kinds, chocolate iced are my favorite.

Today...things are a just a little different  for me, as most of us remember today is also the the day preceding Ash Wednesday, the first day of the season of fasting and prayer called Lent.  Imagine if you will fasting for 40 days and being tempted by the devil. Are you kidding me? 40 days. The devil AND fasting. deadly combination.

So, lets see what will I "give-up" for the next 40 days? It wont be food, television, or holding back on the curse words, it wont be giving up coffee, beer, or vodka. What is your "vice?"

I am going to give up nothing and give everything. try it sometime. Its more than the "holding back" or "talking bad about thy neighbor"...Billy Joel had the right idea with an awesome song...."Keepin the Faith"
George Michael sang "You gotta have Faith."  I am not going all GODLY on you here this morning...just giving you a little taste of my Faith.

FAT TUESDAY
FASNACHT TUESDAY
FORTY DAYs of FAITH how about that....I dare you.

Feed your faith and your fears will starve to death.  ~Author Unknown

"Winning" with a day off

I stayed up past my bedtime last night to watching "after Lately" It's Chelsea Handlers producers and writers preparing for her upcoming shows and clearly unedited. (It's exactly the kind of sitcom WRFY needs to bring back the days of WKRP) good stuff.

Woke up to a little dusting of snow, Regis and Kelly, coffee, and some errands ( I sound like my parents when I say that) its been a QUIET weekend, and a quiet day off. Rather uneventful.

Taxes complete, bills paid, kids in school, my day oFf. "Winning"

Boring right? Not really. This is how I like it.

RAIN RUN OR REST ?

As I continue my extended weekend I had something special planned for today with my friend Kim H. And Beth F. I was mentally prepared to run a 5K race this morning. I guess I should add physically prepared as well.

7am- woke up no rain, birds singing

7:25 I text kim and tell her its warm, no rain, come on up.
7:28 Kim says " raining in Morgantown, check your radar"
7:29 checking radar ( see a lot of GREEN)

Fall back to sleep

8:03 Beth F texts me "decisions, decisions, we'll see"
8:15 The heavens have opened up.
8:41 cup of coffee and raining cats and dogs.
8:43 Beth texts me and says "big no"
I like to run, really I do. The rain and rest win today over a run.

The Shiver by the River begins at 11am . Maybe the run will be cancelled. Its a simple 3.2 miles. I was ready.


Maybe if Noah text messages me and says "The Arc is in front of your house,let's GO..."
Maybe we will exit two by two from our homestead.

I see this as another sign to continue my weekend of rest.

Enjoy.

Saturday mornings

I really enjoy a Saturday morning when the kids don't have any activities, I don't have to go work and the dogs are as lazy as we are. I mean I'm not a fan of just lying around all day because of the cooking,cleaning,laundry, bill paying, exercising day ahead of me. Although as I sit here under my covers I realize that five hours ago I wouldve been up and going.

I watch Fox and Friends on the FOX news station (you are not allowed to be fat or ulgy to work there) It should be re-named Foxy friends, Saturday mornings in New York with alyson, dave and berks county boy Clayton Morris. You can find. Him tweeting and facebooking...a super huge social networking kind of guy, he also has a podcast and I admire the small town boy for making it BIG:) he has been invited numerous times to be a part of the morning show with Y-102...denied! But I still call him my friend. When he needed information on "fountain lady texter" from our area, I was his go to girl. I know he needs me.

Its a dreary Saturday and I got a good nights rest, a dream about being in high school and forgetting my track uniform at home for the very last track meet. Carol Brady of the brady bunch was in charge and she would NOT let me drive home to get it. I was crying, called her ignorant and she wrote me up. I only had one whipped cream vodka and cranberry last night.

Thank God for our Kuerig coffee maker...prince charming is out in the kitchen as I type making cup number two. I discovered almond joy coffee creamer (heavenly) I will start moving shortly. I love a good saturday morning. Oatmeal and fresh strawberries come next....

GAY, GLEE, GRACIOUS and GRATEFUL

About 8 years ago when I was on the radio I was talking about the weather forecast when I referred to Glenn "Hurricane" Shwartz from NBC-10  as a "fag" I meant absolutely NOTHING by this, it was his bow-tie selection that had me uncomfortable.. Until I thought about "SLANDER" and I until I got an email from a listener who said they had already contacted  Hurricane Shwartz to let him know I was a HOMOPHOBE. seriously me???  So, as it turned out I had to write the weatherman a letter of apology.

I have a ton of GAY friends and guess what.....I love them all. I do not treat them any differently, I do not enjoy them having a "gay" category. I do not like how they are judged. I love them for who they are, what I have learned from them.

I cannot stand the person that judges my Gay friends. They are human, they are fun, they are loving. They have jobs, children, and a future to make a difference in this world. Their every idea matters. They let nothing get in their way.  They are my friends.

When my husband met my gay friends....he loved them from the minute he met them, all of them. It makes me love him more.

At the end of the rainbow there lies a pot of gold for EVERYONE, EVERY RACE, EVERY RELIGION, climb the rainbow.....slide down, climb back up, make it part of your routine. learn to EMBRACE everyone, they are my friends and  I love them.

LETTERS FROM OUR LISTENERS

If you know me on a personal level, you know how sensitive I am. Probably because I am "real" red-head and was teased growing up, "carrot-top", "Big Red" ,"Ginger" ....and then when I graduated high school I became such a rebel, that I decided to become a blonde....and I never went back. Nobody wanted to date a red-head, nobody wanted the "red-head" on their dodge ball team but they sure as hell hit me hard enough with the ball.

Well, because I grew up insecure it has taken awhile to grow out of it.. I feel the need to be a people pleaser ALL of the time. I do get great satisfaction out of it, although sometimes I cant make all 100,000 listeners happy. I thought I would share some of the emails from our listeners....their wants, their needs, their complaints and their praises.

some even get me in trouble.


To: BURKE, AL
Subject: Morning Show Sports

Hello Mr Burke, I called in this morning on the request line, during the morning show, to find out why Scott wasn't announcing the Reading High Basketball District win last night and their progress to Hershey on Saturday.
I'm pretty sure it was Jackie who picked up the phone and said "we aren't aloud to say that" and hung up.
Why can't you announce Reading High winning a game??? It appears more prejudice then anything.
Thank you for looking in to this matter.

Next we have the classic, please feel sorry for me letter, look, if I could hand out free passes to everyone for every concert, every restaurant, every hockey, baseball, and football game dont; you think I would?

Good Morning Jackie and Scott,

 I just have a comment about the morning mind bender contest.

I feel that if you don't have the time in the morning to run the

contest fairly, you should pick another time to do it.  This morning,

I called in (with the correct answer) and the phone was busy

at first, then rang and rang without being answered.

When you put the contestant on the air this morning, she got

three (3) guesses at getting the answer correct.  This is not the

first time you have given someone multiple guesses or coached them

towards saying the correct answer.

You may think this sounds petty, but it's how I feel and this is why.

I've been trying to win a gift certificate to 3rd & Spruce for a very long time. 

It may not seem like a big deal, but we are on a tight budget.  My husband

is home on permanent disability, and when that happened, I went from being

a stay at home mom to working full time, so it's not like I've worked all my life

to build a career and a great salary, I have a job.  For me to win a gift certificate

for us to go out to dinner is a big deal to us.  So when I'm calling with the correct

answer and can't even get someone to answer the phone, then hear someone get

multiple guesses or get coached, it's a little frustrating.

I love the morning show and have for years.  I just wanted to share with both of 

you how I feel about the morning mind bender contest.  Thank you for listening.

and now, some of the nicer thoughts, questions and comments.

To: Hoffman, Jackie
Subject: american idol

Who’s your favorite?

I think the people are really good this year compared to other years.  Tough decision.

Honestly, I think the younger kids are doing the best. 

And… do you know how much it is to get in the home and garden show?

Last year it was free.. do you know if it still is?

To: Hoffman, Jackie
Subject: comment from this morning

blonde from Heidelberg. Jackie I personally would be more excited running into you or Scott at Giant then her and so would many of my friends.I have heard and seen enough of that woman but we never get tired of you .  Have a wonderful day . Cheryl

To: Hoffman, Jackie
Subject: Hi

Jackie need a new hairdresser. Where do you go?
Have a nice day! Rosie

I literally go through hundreds of emails a week. And if I don't respond it drives me CRAZY. I love 'how demanding  my job is, and yet how simple some of the emails are. And as Al Burke continues to remind me everyday, "you can't save the world jackie" I have to remember that. But I will keep trying.

RADIO DAZE: Where are they now?

First of all Happy Birthday to my Mom! I love you.

25 years ago in Pottsville Pa I had to call my mom on a Sunday morning to help me turn the transmitter on at WPPA-1360 in order for the Church programs to go out over the air. I was crying, I forgot what to do, despite the directions that were written down in front of me. She drove into the "station" and got us on the air. Thanks Mom. and Thank you Kim Douglas (formerly of WZZO Allentown) for believing in me and being my mentor.

Today's blog is about my Past and Present friends in radio. I want to begin with my favorite three. The three stooges, my three brothers, my idols in radio. The three men that grew with me, stayed with me and taught me everything I know in radio. Vince Angelo, Mike Peckman and Mike McGeever (RIP). I love all three equally.

VINCE ANGELO:  who worked at WPPA in the early days is currently working here in Reading with me at WRFY as our Production Director. One of the funniest guys I know. He is a tremendous father of 3 daughters, a loving husband to "his Sue" and very respected in every aspect of life, I admire Vince for going back to college at Alvernia University getting his degree in Business Administration and continuing his dream.

MIKE PECKMAN: is my "go-to guy" we may not talk everyday, or every month, but I trust Mike and know he is always there for me. Mike is no longer in Radio, Is a father of 4, has an amazing wife, and is the Director , Marketing /Public relations at SchuylkillHealth Systems.

SCOTT (SKIP) CARR:  He was the Program Director of WAVT T-102 in Pottsville. He also went on to finish his college education, he currently works in Philly at 102.9 WMGK

SHERRY KALYAN-BUONOPANE  is currently the owner of Specialty Cakes and sweets on Mechaniscsburg. special order cakes, cake sculptures, and handmade chocolates. She is also in Radio working for Clear Channel Station WRVV The River in Harrisburg.  I tasted some of Sherry's creations....amazing!!!

MIKE EBERSOLE:  Such a quick witted individual who worked at Y-102 in the 80's

Public Address Announcer for LVC Sports and E-town HS Basketball. T-102 FMOn Air Radio Personality · Pottsville, Pennsylvania. WQIC AND WLBRMorning show side kick and mid days on WQIC and Morning sports on WLBR. FM 97 WLAN On-Air Radio Personality Nights then moved to afternoon drive. HOT 105.7Afternoon Drive Air Personality · 1990 to 1994. Bayou 104 KBIU On air personality and Music Director Lake Charles Louisiana · 1987 to 1989 Tune in to Mike for the Lunchboat! 100.1 WQIC

                                                                            

JEFF JORDAN:  So full of energy! worked at Z100 NY as the Assistant Promotion Mgr and then Q-102 on air and as Promotion Director, Jeff is a husband, a father and currently works for the Salvation Army as Seasonal Services Program/Inner city Ministries Chaplain. Jeff, you are a gift.

MANIAC MATT: ( MATT BRACELLI) I met Matt and just "gushed" as my heart would RACE everytime I would hear him or see him. Mary Frew won! Matt is the OWNER of HOLA Spanish  radio , 2 stations in the Lehigh Valley.

GEORGE STODDARD: We had a love/hate relationship, such a trouble maker! BUT, he grew up and moved forward. Summer of 2002 he  lost a bet and moved from his home, 2 blocks off the beach in Margate to the mountains of NEPA. he lives in Laflin (“upscale Wilkes-Barre”) with his wife, Sue (known to ALL as the SAVIOR) and their daughters Alexa and Giana.he is  the Regional Operations Director for a NJ based restaurant company. He  presently operates 2 Red Robin locations, 4 Fuddruckers and a new concept coming soon, Sonoma Chicken, which is a Northern California restaurant chain that we are bringing east. I always knew just how successful George would be.

and at last The Man whose place I took on the Y-102 Morning show. He is irreplaceable, people told me, you will NEVER  have the following David did, he is the best. I knew what a talented person he was/is but once you read this you will understand why I wish to be just like David Stein.

DAVID STEIN: After he hosted the National Morning show at FOX Sports radio, David began his own show. A celebration of Life, syndicated on 80 radio stations around the country weekdays (or nights) 2-6am.  In April, David took the talk show to a new syndication company and will continue broadcasting nationally from the sticks of North Georgia where he serves in a local church. However, the best thing that EVER happened to David and the thing that matters to him occurred Sept 26th 2006 when God turned his life around.  David says, " I now know that while I was running away from him my entire life....he was pursuing ME all along. He continues to share his faith and beliefs with others AND is getting married! Congrats to you Dave in your continued success and blessings.

There are so many others including  Gene Werley, Mike Coyle, Pat Devine, Joe Hoak, Bobby D. and to my past co-workers who remain in the VILLE  RC, JZ, JK Levan, Les Blankenhorn. Our bonding as a family in radio will never end, our friendships will remain and as I tell EVERYONE radio is not a job, its a lifestyle, its hard to drain the passion for radio once its in your blood. We all have a gift, a talent, a dream to make a difference in someone else's day with the simple request of a song.

Perhaps someday my dream of becoming a narrator of childrens books will become a reality, until then HAPPY BIRTHDAY DR SEUSS.....I will continue to read even when no one is listening :)

My fab Four Survivors

Survivors......We all know them, We admire their strength, their faith,  their desire and passion to make a difference. No, Not Charlie Sheen or Linsday Lohan, they will NEVER be survivors.

Survivors.....they are true heroes.  Debt, Divorce and broken bones do not count. In my line of work I have Run a marathon for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, I have walked for The Relay for Life and The American Cancer Society, spoken on behalf of Breast Cancer Awareness....there are others, but it is in these categories  you meet the Survivors. That's the most rewarding part of my job.  I have a fab four of friends that come to my mind when I think Survivor. Allow me to share and at the end of today's blog I urge you to add your survivors name to this blog.

Cindy Castner:  A TWO time breast cancer survivor. The most colorful and vibrant person that has crossed my path, we became friends quickly when  moved to Berks county. She has had a bilateral Mastectomy and breast reconstruction. She is never without a smile.

Kenny Miller:  Reading Express Assistant Football Coach.  Loss of Salivary gland, Lymph nodes are gone , some hearing in his left ear. clearly a long haul with chemotherapy. Another unbelievable story and survivor. A family man, friend and incredible coach, and now speaks out against the use of smokeless tobacco products.

                                  

Dena Dietrich :  One of my very best friends. Aneurysm. I still remember where I was, what I was doing, and how I reacted. Its like a gunshot. You cant do anything about it. The next thing I knew Dena was being life flighted to Philly. It was a long process of recovery and it scares you to death to know people just die suddenly with no rhyme or reason. You just never know. Dena looks awesome and is back to work. When I went to visit with Dena I passed out in her hospital room and had to be admitted. Quite the story. We should save that for another day.



Stacy Brown:  The light in my darkness :) Aneurysm. Stacy is AMAZING. Owner of Sunshine Wellness Resources and mother of 3, friend of many. We have laughed together and cried together. When I see her dedication to everyone else it just makes me realize her determination to make others grow in faith is great.


survivor - one who lives through affliction.

Celebrate the Survivors, we learn from them, we grow from them. Life's many detours turn into perfect journeys.

shout out your Survivor today!