It's so hot.

It's so HOT I saw squirrels fanning their nuts.  See...... this is what the heat does to people. Seriously, people are so impatient and the sweat trickles down their back. Their faces bright red, and their temper, enough to set the world on fire.

But not me, I have decided during these record breaking temperatures to play it so cool. Cool as a Cucumber, what are my ideas for staying cool?

1.  REMAIN CALM...even when the dogs are barking, its time to make dinner, and my phone is ringing. CHILL

2.  GET NAKED , what really makes a difference is when you have a house full of kids. seriously, I don't know why there is so much shame when Eve used a fig leaf. I go to my room, lock the door and that is a signal its my time. GO AWAY, I am "chilling out"

3.  STAY HYDRATED. My favorite...and there is nothing like it...ICE COLD WATER , with a mint tea leaf and lemon. Here is the problem, our ice maker is broke. So is the oven door, our shower drain, and our dining room window...but relax...keep cool DRINK.

4.  THE MAGICAL SCENT.  Bath and Body Works Coconut lime Verbena body splash....kind of reminds me of Grannys Jean nate , remember that stuff? OMG.

5. FRUIT...and lots of it, watermelon, blueberries, cantaloupe...I could live on fruit salad, its so refreshing and fills the spot.


See....you are so cool with these ideas right now , you don't know where to begin. take it from me. I have some secrets I am willing to share, even during the heat wave, I didn't even mention the obvious cold shower because you just get naked first.  Enjoy.

xo
j

"dating"

It felt like a few years ago...It felt like a date, and I felt like a school girl, when kids are flying in every direction and both of our jobs so very busy. We take every little chance we get to have a date.

This morning we slept til 8am, (after that neighborhood block party) had a nice breakfast together and some coffee in bed, then some cleaning up from last night, watering the garden, pack a lunch and off to Kayak at blue Marsh, I thought for sure it would be packed. Nope, so we watched kids jump off the bridge (thankful they weren't ours) and then watched a kid climb a tree and jump from the top of it, my heart was RACING for these kids.  We relaxed, talked, laughed, slept and yes even paddled. It was beautiful.  FOUR quiet, peaceful hours.

Next stop, we were looking for a COLD beer after that, stopped at the Reading Airport, but they weren't open, (the bar that is) so a cold bottle of water worked instead!!

To top off the night, just got home from IMAX theaters and laughed out loud more than once at THE HANGOVER 2, I highly recommend it.

That was such a great day, my date is over, and I actually get to stay the night with my date where as in high school your dates would always have to end and you go your separate ways.....some days I wonder if I will ever grow up.  Nah, my kids ask me all the time. I like me, just the way I am .
And I love my best friend and husband. I nailed the perfect mate. (no pun intended)

And now.....let the fun begin......Graduate # 1 Its going to be a busy 2 weeks.  I really needed today.

And last, bless our soldiers and heroes .  May the rest in peace and never be forgotten.  Thank you for Everything.

Block Party 2011

It was our first annual block party...and it was fun, let me say the "older neighbors" proved me WRONG...the ones that I thought would be ready for the night to end at 7:30, ended up staying until 10:30. Its always nice to feel as though you can count on your neighbors for anything.  I have truly found a superb neighborhood of great folks.  Did I mention I am the youngest. (unless we count Laura)

At times there are neighbors we just wave hello and goodbye to, or see what kind of car they drive, or what the secret to their perfect lawn is, Not in this neighborhood, its perfect just the way it is. We bonded a bit more yesterday afternoon, played games, talked about our kids, were entertained by Mr.Fisher.....there is always one in the bunch.

Its nice to feel safe, cared for, and loved by thy neighbor. Its not Wisteria Lane by any stretch, but we have a real nice group of neighbors who are also friends. To laugh with, smile at, count on when you need them for a cup of sugar, an egg, (barbara and Donnie) a swimming pool (billie and Randy) Kayak ( Lori and bob) help with paper work for your college bound student (laura and Linda)  answers to ANY question imaginable(bill) a Wheelbarrow (Joan and Ralph) a good joke (Mr. Fisher)  and then there are neighbors I am saving up favors for....Lynn and Mike, your time will come!

So, I go in a little late to blog last night, today we remember our soldiers and pray for peace on this memorial day, whatever it is you do today, make time to pause, reflect and pray for our heroes.

Lovey and I are going to the Lake today to Kayak, should be a very calming, relaxing time, unless we "rock the boat" .

xo
j

Enjoying your weekend?

I must say today was a beautiful day , the breeze was a constant reminder to me of the tornadoes, earthquakes, and hurricanes the rest of the world has been dealing with, some friends having destroyed property less that 40 minutes away in Schuylkill County.  We hear the stories, see the photos, and watch the news, and we constantly say, "what's next?"

It's out of our hands, and at any given moment life can change. I have slowly started to learn how precious life is, tell your neighbors what they mean, reach out to a stranger in need, try and mend with your enemy. And tell your kids you love them even when you are ready to snap your lid. Trust me, it happens often.. I'm going to text mine right now.

Lovey and I picked out some onions, peppers, a watermelon, tomatoes and cucumbers and made ourselves a nice little garden. He even put a fence around it to make sure our bunny friends don't start taking advantage of us.

From there, a great little run on my river road....I can see for miles on that stretch. Its perfect.

Made my share of goodies tonight, black bottom cupcakes, (you know the ones with chocolate chips and cream cheese. ) some buffalo chicken win dip, and pasta salad. We are having our neighborhood block party tomorrow...love my neighbors, there will be about 20 of us if everyone comes. We all bring a little something :)

so far, so good....still waiting for that text back from my teenagers.

xo
j

NOT your typical Friday.

I was so "jacked" up for the weekend! Wheeeeee....a couple days off and let's get this party started.  Went to work, ate some oatmeal and blueberries, picked Katie up for an Eye Doctor appointment, filled up the tank, grabbed a quick grilled chicken sandwich at Chick-fil-a  and back home again to get ready for THE KICKOFF TO SUMMER PARTY at Beverly Hills.

So let's rewind....The kickoff to summer party. I wasn't working there....my husband couldn't be with me because he was working at his uncle's cabin all day...and it was home to the kids from there.  I really don't like going places without him..things are so much different now. So, I thought...hmmmm, I really should workout today. I knew Rosalie would be going to Sunshine Wellness for a private session with David. We are both on the same team in the Ultimate Spring Challenge, so I called Rose and asked if I could "join in" first of all, she was hesitant because I laugh and carry on when I work out, but I still get the job done, and if I'm not laughing and carrying on, I'm complaining and almost crying. So....she finally agreed to let me join in!
One hour of pure leg workout , some cardio and a touch of abs. very nice. Workout in. No complaining and no tears.

I came home, went Food shopping and home to make myself a TURKEY BURGER. Took Michael to a night swim, holly is at dance, Alex is here chatting about life's lessons (and SAT scores tomorrow) Katie is working and Eric is with his friends.   what has gotten in to me? Seriously? A Friday night, a chance to go out, and I chose what matters most. So, from now on, This WILL be a TYPICAL Friday, at home....with my husband. What matters most to me.

Some days I need it to be about me.

Tomorrow I have a live remote broadcast so maybe I will see you there! SLEEPYS MATRESS SALE, now that's a party, we can jump on beds and have a pillow fight. Broadcasting Road.

A Very Happy Life

Today I said Good-bye to my Great Aunt Esther. It was a little over a week or so ago, I went to Pottsville to the nursing home where were she stayed .I visited with her twin sister Aunt  Ruth, at 97 years old, they amaze me.

Little did I know I would be going back so soon to say Good-bye to Aunt Esther. I saw cousins I have not seen in ages, I saw My Kindergarden teacher Mrs Alban, I ran into one of my very first Sunday School teachers Mrs Shuman. Funny how time passes us by.

I sat with my husband, my mom and my dad. It was more of a celebration of life. When you live a very long healthy life surrounded by friends and family what more can you ask for. There is no amount of money in the bank that can give you those riches.  As the service went on, I just could not help but think about all of the family members Aunt Ruth had to say good bye to in her time. She is the very last of 11 brothers and sisters. My grandfather was one of her brothers.

I tried to sit back and just observe how one lets go.. when it was time to close the casket and bid farewell, its when Aunt Ruth could not grab hold of her twin sister who she would no longer see everyday, who she would no longer have breakfast lunch and dinner with. 97 years is a long time.
Aunt Ruth still moves like she is in her 60's she remembers things that I don't, she loves life. Saying goodbye is never an easy thing to do, but much more happiness lies ahead. Fear no evil.

I leaned over to my dad, knowing our time line in our family people live to 100, 101, 105....I said "dad, you have another 30 years to live life to the fullest" and trust me, he does. And then without hesitation, he leaned over and said, " I don't want this sappy music at my funeral, I want ELVIS and his gospel music. And then it was time for for the twenty third Psalm, he knew it by heart, every word, didn't miss a beat. That man that I will look up to forever. My mom and I sang the songs side by side, and the service was beautiful.

Aunt Esther, you will certainly be missed. Aunt Ruth, continue to carry on as the Wind beneath her wings.

"In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return."

xo
j

Shared Custody

Good Morning!

I know this sounds a little crazy, however my x-husband.(I hate using X as much as I HATE saying Step, for step children) anyway, my first husband and I , (that just does not sound right either) The father of my children and I share custody of our lovely border collie Bo who I adopted from the Hillside SPCA in Pottsville. He has such a great personality, he is more human than most individuals that I have come across. He loves being with both of us, he enjoys being where the kids are. So, we share custody of Bo.

Mind you , this is the second time this has happened  and I am grateful it wasn't 30 below or pouring down rain, but at about 3am my husband and I heard something at the door, it woke me up, it wasn't a bark, or a knock, but it was SOMETHING at the door. My heart was pounding because I feared after all these years in radio someone would get really pissed off at me for not playing their 1 year anniversary request and come and hunt me down. Lovey, (my superhero with superpowers) shot up out of bed, gathered his thoughts with no fears, and headed towards the door, turned on the light, and said , "it's Bo" opened the door and there Bo ran under the bed and off to sleep. Glenn and I live literally one mile away from one another.

Now, I just need to know, when your dog takes off do you:

A.  GO to sleep
B.   Drive around until you find him/her
C.   hope they are meeting new friends in the neighborhood.

Bo is like my child. We go for walks, I talk he listens, we watch movies together, I share my chicken with him, he greets me when I come home, we snuggle.

I might have to re-think this shared custody thing.....If only Bo could speak.

xo
j

keeping silent. Rising to the top

(All names have been changed to protect their families...and me.)

With my job I meet alot of people, if not daily, most likely every other day. Today was no different. 3 gentleman had come to the radio station, one whom I knew from Schuylkill County. I said, "Bob, I'm worried about you, you need to start taking better care of yourself", he said, "you know jackie I gained the weight when I quit smoking." So, I said to Bob, you can start by taking a WALK, a simple walk every night. He is only in his late 50's, he spoke about having a valve replaced in his heart, which went on to his rotator cuff being torn, to getting hearing aids. I said, Bob,"You're a HOT mess". He proceeded to tell me he only has another 20 years. do you know why? Because his dad died young and his mom had Cancer.

                                                       SCENE 2

The Second Gentleman sat quietly listening to Bob, I noticed a scar on his blad head. From one side of his temple, across to the other side. I was wondering to myself what had happened? Why isn't he down on his luck? Why isn't he saying, "take a look at me" So, I had to ask....this person I had never met. "Tom, what happened?" and without blinking an eye he simply said, "I had to have an 8 hour brain surgery last year" just like that. Like so matter of fact. I had to know more. I said, " how did you know?" he said.........now pay attention here, he said, "because I lost my sense of smell, I knew something wasn't right" So, I went to the the ENT, they took some pix, and sent them directly to Johns Hopkins, and I ended up there for 2 days, and back home again" There he sat, so matter of factly, but still understanding how close he came to death, or some sort of complications during the surgery. He had a brain tumor which could have killed him.

The whole story here, and I actually LEARNED something.  Keep silent, no one needs to know about your own struggles or pains or problems because they all have their own, rise to the top and become better listeners. Bob spoke in volumes to me today and wasn't even speaking loud. All his senses are clearly functioning and his heart speaks for him.

There you are another, blessing, another lesson. God is Good.

My Bike.

I need to blog a bit early because later on I am getting my ass kicked. That's right, I scheduled  a 90 minute cycle class tonight at Sunshine Wellness. You may ask WHY so much torture. Its because its a good drug of choice for me on any given day. I am also planning a 50 mile bike ride. I'm not sure how its going to be, BUT, I'm sure it will be fun. Valley Forge and Conshohocken, sounds like fun. Only this bike doesn't have a motor.

I had a really rocky day on the air, I stumbled over everything. every word I said, every contest I ran. But, I got through it. Thank you Beth for a great 2 1/2 hour lunch at Good Eatz! That was so great. I cant wait to do it again. Did I talk too much? I must learn to be a better listener!!  I did learn alot today, so I thank you.

Turkey Sausage in rolls tonight, I can stand to put a little cheese on it since I am going to burn HUNDREDS of calories tonight. Right?

Let this week go by fast......lets keep busy, stay focused on what gets us up in the morning, I am looking forward to a cookout with the neighbors this weekend....my crazy neighbors, and if anyone is around this weekend....we are HOME...I am going NO WHERE!

xo
j

When the walls come crumbling down

That title of my blog is a John Mellencamp song, he was a real jerk at a concert during a meet and greet, just not friendly at all....but I guess he doesn't have to be. big Shot, now he's with Meg Ryan , and she needs to be with someone sweet and lovable, like John Stamos or someone.

Now, lets talk about mental exhaustion. How it happens, why it happens. and where you go next. I started crumbling today when I finally took a look at my pile of mail from the past three weeks. The bills, the kids paper work for summer jobs, insurance, their bank accounts, phone bills, graduation, cap and gowns, my work schedule, my WORK-out schedule. my empty refrigerator...you know how it is, and then my head and heart start pounding, then I get all emotional..and crumble.

So, I open one envelope at a time, sort them out, put them in piles. Think of our trip to Florida this summer, and then ask myself...are you going to rob a bank or what? After hitting everything HEAD ON today, the walls started to build back up again,  I have learned that tomorrow is another day, things will get better. ( In most cases) keep your faith first..and don't hold back when you're having a bad day because it will only make you feel worse.

thank you Becky for being there today.  Thank you heather , Debbie and Kim for the weekend and new friends I have made AGAIN! Thank you to my husband who left for work today and said, "do me a favor, don't do ANYTHING today" Thank you Eric for cleaning your room. FINALLY. Thank you katie for some good conversations between last night and today. My kids "get-me" at least I think they do. And to my friends at Sunshine Wellness Resources. I am BLESSED from very minute I walk in there with the greatest staff and workout buddies. I love you all. Looking forward to a challenging week with team two more...we have 2 and half weeks remaining.

I have my baby graduating high school in 17 days, I am starting to get teary eyed and crumble for the second time today...this is why I blog and bite my lip. Overjoyed by what I have been given, this is includes my challenges too. All Five of our children mean everything to me.

xo
j

The lovely bride!

Kim and her dad

I apologize for the late, late , (by a day ) late blog....so we will have two blogs today. My head is POUNDING.

Yesterday was a perfect, beautiful, stunning day....Kim and john I am so happy for you both, It was actually really special watching them exchange their vows in Cheseapeake City Md. there were alot of similarites. Kim married someone by the name of John. (so did I) Both kim and John were married before...so were my john and myself,  Kim has a son and daughter, (so do I) John has 2 older boys and a younger daughter ( so does my John)  They now have a family of 7. Just like us.

 While the sun beat down and you could watch the boats on the bay, and hear the water crash up onto the stones....the beauty of the day was to see the happiness in those kids faces, accepting that their parents are together and it will be a new life, it is difficult, and children have so much to understand. But at the end of the night, to see them all hanging out, dancing, laughing and being a family, I could not help but think of our kids on our wedding and what they were feeling. It shed a little light on how forgiving they have all become.

Kim and John may you find the greatest things in life together. I wish you both good health, and many blessings.

xo
j

Pamper me Please.

It's not that I don;t like to be pampered. I do, It's not that I don't want to look and feel glamorous, I DO! It's the fact that I can't sit still. I have a wedding to go to tomorrow, and I very much wanted to have a pedicure and manicure...I just didn't feel like taking 2 hours to STOP for a minute.

So....I will be putting on my Lee Stick on Nails. No, I won't, I'm kidding. I will however do a little filing on my well bitten (stubbly) nails. (nerves) I will be trying to paint my toes. It would be so much easier to have someone else do it, however...I just cant sit still, and when people touch my feet, I laugh.

Had a nice evening as Alex (step-son #1) went off to the prom with his lovely date, and  then had dinner with my mother-in-law. In-between rain drops the night was relaxing. The night is still young. My hopes for these teenagers is that all of them return home safe to their families and may they make magical memories that last a lifetime.

xo
j

looking ahead

Finally Thursday, More rain...its been almost 6 straight days with rain, I worked this morning, worked out, came home, showered, and went back out to a live remote broadcast , only problem was......by 5:30 my belly was growling and I was starving. Alebrije Mexican Resturaunt was right next door to my remote.

I knew the kids were at home waiting for me. I called in and placed my order....oh yummy. Shhhhhh, dont tell my team members at Sunshine Wellness...I totally snapped. Get this, A Quesadilla de Chorizo. A flour tortilla grilled and stuffed with cheese, Chorizo, and refried beans. served with guacamole, lettuce and sour cream. I feel like I ate a cow, I'm not kidding, I'm in my jammie pants, BLOATED to no end.  SHAME ON ME.

I already stated I would be taking 2 classes a day next week because there are 2 weeks left in the challenge at Sunshine Wellness Center Maybe our Team Captain will read this, and I will get my ASS kicked. or, maybe not. Either way, I abused myself tonight, I am hearing grumbles in my belly, and I am wishing tomorrow was here.

Well, its an early night for me....for once, kids are home, that means everyone is safe. I'm taking the hot pink dress back to its dress barn tomorrow, a noon power class that makes me cry, and then my mother in law will be here with her camcord.....(as she calls it) not camcorder. CAMCORD. Alex will be off to the prom at this time tomorrow night.

I am very much looking forward to this weekend, I have a wedding in Chesapeake City Md. I'm going with my BFF's Debbie and Heather....

Kim & John, I wish you much happiness and life long fun, that's what its all about, chasing each other around the room at night, sharing a glass of wine, making time for each other is key. Enjoy your wedding day, I am so glad you were a part of ours, we have so much in common with our blended families, so much patience is needed. I know you will be fine, and I know you have found a terrific man in "your John" Your family of 7, our family of 7, keep it fun <3


love,
j
xo

My Dad.

Dan Kelly

gary Laubach and dad

My dad is pretty amazing. Sorry, I have to brag, I have to boast.  Was he strict? Oh hell yes, ask any one of my boyfriends in the past. This blog this evening is dedicate to the man that I looked up to, the one that It always mattered to me what he thought. The one that worried about me constantly. The one who would make me laugh so hard sometimes I would get pains in the stomach. That man that no matter how busy he was he never missed a track meet, a cross country meet, he went to my  brothers every baseball, football, and basketball games. He was the only man that mattered to me.

Scott and Pat

Tonight I learned so much from his friends, past and present EMT's, the Mayor, kids he mentored, peoples whose lives he changed , just by saving the lives of others.

<>

Dad AND MY BROTHER

I learned that he took up over 30 years of his time to dedicate to others no matter what they needed, he would just ask, how soon. No problem is ever too big. My dad is like the band-aid for everyone. And no matter how big the cut is, he will make sure it is healed within time. If I ever have a problem that my dad cant fix, Im in trouble.

JOHNNY AND DAD

Tonight was perfect. I know my dad was very proud to hear every story, receive numerous plaques, awards , and hugs, and handshakes.

<>

LT. STINE AND DAD

My dad is my hero, kind and gentle, always doing whatever he can for others, but I already knew that.
Firefighter, EMT, EMS, involved in his church, community, works for a funeral home, retired from the Army, Cancer survivor, absolutely awesome.

I love you dad. The coolest thing was to hear my own son say to MY dad, "I'm proud of you pop"

Thank you to EVERYONE who was there tonight.

How Embarrasing

So today I thought I would be ready to drop a dress size and took off to the dress barn to buy a beautiful HOT PINK dress for a wedding this Saturday. Well, I got there and thought, I'm going to try a size smaller than I usually take....AND my regular size. So...I undressed got motivated to put it over my head because the one side has a sleeve the other doesn't and it zips on the side. (so your sleeveless on one side but not the other) it went over my head and I S Q U E E Z E D it over my boobs. OMG, the rest was easy.....WOW, it looked amazing. I didn't care at the moment if I had to sleep in it, I was walking around the store looking in all the mirrors.

HOWEVER, I could not take it home if I was wearing it, First, I had to get it off. I unzipped the little sexy number, and pulled it up over my waist, and then things came to a HALT. I held onto one boob and Squished it down like a mammogram, I was starting to sweat, and getting weak, I thought I would have to call for help. but I knew I had to be a big girl. And so....I jumped around, squirmed up and down , flattened my boobs, (we are now at a fifteen minute process) dress OFF, no rips, no flaws. I did it.
I tried on the BIGGER size and it looked OK, I brought it home, but I don't love it. I think I might return it.
That was embarrassing moment number 542

1.  When I was drug off the stage at the Soverign Center introducing Journey.
2.  When I was at a radio remote broadcast getting ready to go live at B & G glass and I had just given blood for their blood drive. I passed out. Down for the count. I was done for the day. (thanks Phil for reminding me today)
3. When an old boyfriend ate hot wings and never completely washed his hands before our HOT date began.
4.  When I thought I ran over a dog while stopped at a red light and I got out of my car crying, screaming, looking EVERYWHERE and there the man was in the lane aside of me with his hound barking out the passengers window.
5. When my moms bathing suit top fell down at IVYSIDE swim club and she was doing laps, I was yelling "MOM" MOM" , she couldint hear a thing....I will never forget that one.

That's just a few...believe me, I have had my share of mishaps, my face get really really red when I make mistakes.  Today I may have learned a lesson......if you have even the smallest problem getting the dress on, FORGET trying to get it off.

thanks for sharing your stories too!!!

xo
j

VOTE VOTE VOTE!!!

Well, I tumbled and split and everything in between at the Reading Express game yesterday, next question, "how did you feel when you woke up this morning?" uhm, a little sore, but I did get out of bed by 10am, Oh, how sweet it was to SLEEP. No worries, no thinking, it was a LAZY day, spent with a great husband who supported my every step this past weekend.
He was there from 8am-5pm at the celebrity softball game, then yesterday he showed up at the football game stating he would not have missed it for the world. I have no idea how this man puts up with me, its such great balance , I suppose the very first thing I should do is stop asking WHY. John I love you.

Tonight, I will be dancing with the stars...in my room. That's right, my work is never done.


I did a little cooking for the kids tonight, lasagna...good stuff.

I have not worked out at Sunshine Wellness since FRIDAY!!!! O M G !!!

I will be back on my game tomorrow....let your voting begin, I don't care if you are in FLORIDA, I better have your vote...my poor dad doesn't text so he is feeling awful...I know I have his vote anyway.

Lets raise more awareness and more funds to help our Berks County Special Athletes. When you vote tomorrow, make sure you text your vote for me to win the Reading Express Ambassador of the Year where I could reap that cash donation for the Special Olympics of berks County!!!!!

JH06 to 366948    get to it!!

Thank you!!!

Malinowski and Hoffmaster...you got my vote :)

We've only just begun:)

As I sit and write this, don't think for one minute I don't have tears in my eyes. I had one of the greatest weekends in my life.
The Special Olympians of Berks County have taught me so very much. I made great friends, We would get together every Tuesday and plan for the celebrity softball game. We would talk of the great day it would be. indeed it was a success. But now, the weekend must end.

I am not one to sit around and watch the world pass me by, I get more out of giving than receiving, I love to see the smiles on peoples faces when they are rewarded with things they are so deserving of.

Today was the  Reading Express game, if it were not for them asking me to be an Honorary member and choose a charity, none of these great things would be happening.  Ted and Lisa Lavender and their staff and team are first class individuals with every thing they are involved with in this community. Jess, Brenda, Jen, you are all awesome. The Cartwheel, round off and Straddle will have me bed ridden for the next 24 hours.



Jess Gave HER gold Medals to US!

 To my Berks County special Olympic athletes, family and friends, this is just the beginning, I promise this is not good-bye or a see ya later,or, I have other things to do. You won my heart, our friendship lasts forever. we are going to stick together, we are going to continue having fun and making people more aware of what the program is all about.


Patricks smile is PRICELESS!

 I took the day off tomorrow.....I'm cleaning out my closet, going to sunshine wellness, and gearing up for another week! Enjoy, be safe and smile at someone, it really does make them smile back!!! No matter how bad they feel.

xo
j

Amazing Grace

Special Olympics softball team

Today started with rain and ended with a rainbow that could only be made with a variety of people from here in Berks County.
A rainbow of so many individuals who made their own sunshine by helping in every way possible. I met Butch from Bob Fisher chevrelot. In all my life I have never met someone so generous. He didnt know anyone on either team and made so many kind gestures in the time he was there (early in the morning) until the afternoon,. Sandwiches and doughnuts and coffee for the volunteers who were in the rain all day.

The rain did let up in the afternoon when it was time for the game, The athletes had been looking forward to this day. The catcher with one arm, the shortstop who taught me how to run the bases, The first baseman who I knocked over.....it was incredible, during the 5th inning, all of the Y102 foulballs were asked to play with one arm..and we did, no arguements, they whooped our butts, they could crack that ball, they could run like the wind, they were the most determined kids I have ever seen. And they won 18-17

We were all there for one reason together. To let these athletes show US what it is like to be in their shoes for a day. They are pretty neat athletes. THEY thanked us....they are so grateful and humble.

I have so many thank yous for everyone involved, you know who you are, I could not have done ANY of this without you.

I have found a new home for my heart in the line of Charity work. I want to see this rainbow, I want to feel this magic, I want to help in every way with these special Olympians. To inspire greatness is what they will teach you over and over....and it doesnt take long.  The sunshine on a cloudy was perfect. Even if we couldint see it, we all felt it.

Y-102 Foulballs~

Blogger down!

Well Hey Blog readers!

Can you believe blogger.com was down!? Last night I literally tried for HOURS! I have to backtrack now and play the memory game.
Oh, I went HOME to Pottsville to visit with my awesome mom and dad.
They are so cute, my only hope is that when I am that old my marriage will be stronger than ever, and theirs is. They are each others best friend, I admire that, and always wanted that, and I finally got it!
They golf together, walk together, eat their breakfast lunch and dinner together. I love watching them, the cool thing is....they can make fun of one another and take it.

My hubby and I went out to dinner with them at my Favorite...ROMA! They have the best salads! BUT, before that,  I saw the norm....Rob Crosswell rollerblading, Mike Dicello, LOVE you! running, and the funny thing about Mike is, he still looks like he did when he was running 20 years ago. FABULOUS! Let's see, Jack Botto delivering mail, Maria and Lenore knocking on peoples doors, and I have no idea why!?

Then on to visit my Great Aunt Ruth, she is my late grandfathers sister. She is so lively. at 96 years old, there is nothing better than a big strong hug from HER, and hearing her say, "I love you" she is so positive about life. All of my grandfathers brothers and sisters lived very long lives...3 of them past 100, the oldest 105. my only prayer is my parents do the same. its almost like wishing they live forever. I really don't like to think about getting old anytime soon, I feel like I am 20. My knees.....not so much.

Now, this weekend is going to kick my ass....I had a great workout at Sunshine wellness today. (thank you Mark, Laura and David) tonight, happy hour at Beverly hills tavern with my love. And some folks from work. Tomorrow....NO RAIN, come out and support The Special Olympics of Berks County. a Celebrity softball game at Muhlenberg girls softball field at 2pm. all the festivities at 1pm. These kids rock my world.

I bought new shoes and new sneakers at the shoe rack, the  rack room, whatever its called at the shoppes  at Wyomissing, all this time on my feet lately my soles are wearing thin, but my true SOUL is stronger than ever.

peaceful weekend friends, I hope to see you along the way.

xo
j

TIME TO WINE Down

In my last blog I compared my busy lifestyle to that of the roadrunner. Well alas, I see in all of my glorious works it is time to break bread tonight with my dear friend Dena, and lo and behold we will be sharing some WINE....Go figure, just when you think there is nothing to do.

I understand there are 10 stops along Penn St. and you can sample wine, while taking a look at some great specials in each of the locations, and meet more awesome Berks County folk!  We start at Tina's Salon and I will be ending at the Great SUNSHINE WELLNESS RESOURCES!

So I'm thinking Good Eatz for dinner, some heart healthy wine, catching up with Dena and some relaxing while I'm at it on  this gorgeous Spring day.
More info can be found by calling 610-374-9102

Maybe I will see you tonight!

beep beep

You know when you used to watch the Road runner and Wiley Coyote cartoons and the road runner would just stop DEAD in his tracks after running on the dirt road with his ACME sign? Yea, well, I stopped dead in my tracks tonight.
I am so tired. Sometimes I just go and go and go...anyone who know me, knows that's what I do.I like to be active, because when I sit around I think too much, and that's when my thoughts start taking over. All the should've , would've , could've.

I JUST remembered my promise today that I will doing a cartwheel and straddle at the Reading Express Football game this Sunday. I seriously don't know what I was thinking. Its like someone else crawls into my body and makes me do these crazy things!

Makes no difference if I didn't do those things, I would not be content.

Blogging at night sucks...for real, I'm going back to blogging in the a.m. because I feel fuzzy in the head at night, and that has to be normal for my schedule.

I have one thing on my mind and ONE thing alone making this softball game a HUGE success this Saturday. I really want to be surrounded my community spirit and support. I love my special Olympics family!

have a great night, Friday is almost here!!!

xo
j

Let the music play

Look, I'm not a newspaper reporter and I am certainly not going to make any difference in a school districts budget cuts, However I am an individual in the music industry and I think my tune needs to be heard.

I was an athlete in school , a runner on both the track and cross country teams for 4 years. I never learned how to read music or play an instrument, but Mr. Kiener, and Mrs Peyakovich were two of the greatest music teachers I ever knew. It was in fourth grade I had the courage to get up on stage and sing at our talent show at the Yorkville School, 16 tons. I had a little choreography number to go along with that song I sang all by myself, and you know what? It was those music teachers that gave me the courage to do what I do today. I can play the cowbell for The Uptown band, and the tambourine for MIXX..that's where it ends. But I was encouraged to use my talent of making people smile and being very outgoing.

Playing in instrument is no different than being athlete. You need to practice, you need dedication, you need to take pride in your talent.  Sports activity reduces stress...so does music, crossing a finish line gives you the greatest feeling in the world, so does that final note of a song. sports requires discipline, so did heathers mom as she made her practice day after day after day on the piano. Sports are Fun, music gives you the right notes to create a playground of your own band.

Music Inspires, Music is my therapy. Suppose you never heard a bird chirp, or a dog bark, a cat meow, its music in its own way.

don't share the silence, let your music play LOUD. The music, the singing, the talent, the arts, its all part of your make-up on a dreary day.  Try putting up your Christmas tree without any lights this year.......pretty boring right? That's exactly what it would be like if you silence music programs in schools. Better yet Turn on the radio tomorrow morning.....there is nothing there. tired of the same music day after day? These kids are trying to better their talent, and someone wants to take it away.

very sad. My heart is with all the students who are reaching for guidance from the adults who want to take it all away.

I'm going to make a little music of my own before I go to sleep, I play the air guitar, bang on the desk, and sing GLORIA GAYNOR I WILL SURVIVE  until I see the neighbors lights go on. 

Here's to our younger generation tonight....when you get out of school tomorrow, ask the bus driver to TURN IT UP!

Mothers Day 2011

I hope everyone enjoyed their mothers day.

I have found just a few minutes before Desperate Housewives begins.

Being a mom is the by far the most rewarding job in the world. It can be at times stressful, but 9 times out of 10 it is fulfilling and when you look at those little people you have created and they give you those hugs and kisses, you know your job as a parent may have actually worked.

When I woke up this morning, it wasn't about the coffee being made, or breakfast in bed, or flowers, or lunch....or my attempt to make chicken on the grill and I singed my arm hairs.....do you know what I said .....my kids are here, they are healthy and for the most part happy. Don't think for a minute I don't want to put my kids in a plastic bubble and go in their room and visit them!  I wish I could keep them small, but watching them grow is truly amazing.

Being a mom is ......the very best. My heart explodes with love everyday for them.

To moms everywhere....Happy Mothers Day!

No plans at all.

It was a Beautiful Saturday! I had NO plans what so ever, And here it is late in the night, (for me anyway) and I was watching a movie with teen 4, and I realized, I didn't blog Today!!! Talk about being committed to something for a year! This is also to remind me of the 6 week challenge I am involved with at Sunshine Wellness with the Greatest of people!

So....I went for bike ride with John, (or as most of you know him....loveypants) That lasted about an hour or so. Our boys took their SAT's today, came home and we asked if they wanted burgers on the grill, their response " we cant answer ONE  MORE question!" poor things!

I made some spaghetti with my mother-in-laws homemade sauce for supper and it tasted damn good! Took Holly to Dairy Queen, and I want you to know, I ordered NOTHING!
Katie is working pretty much all weekend..she enjoys her paycheck!
We don't see Michael very much on the weekends...Alex is at the girlfriend's...and Eric is on his way home, very funny....he is the PRIVATE one in the family, I mean I know where he is, but I signed a waiver that I am not allowed to talk about his "private life" on my facebook or blog. So I  am protecting the innocent. Are you laughing?

I really do enjoy the coming and going, the laughs , the arguments. I love being a mom for 2 and step-mother for 3 ,  as much as I HATE saying step-mother, its what I am. Put it together and there are 5 very different and unique teenagers.

I am proud of  what I have TRIED to do as a parent, and I know ONE day they will understand why I am the way I am.

My body is so sore these days....I just keep on working out! Tomorrow is Mothers Day, a DAY OFF, from work, and working out, but for the man who never takes a day off, I will be in your house tomorrow morning to worship and above all, thank him for my HEALTHY family. I am blessed.

Good night all, and Have a Wonderful Mothers day.

Not once, but twice!

I am telling you, I was so tired this morning, the coffee never even kicked In!! It was insane! How does a morning show DJ do a show with her eyes closed? I did it!!

So.....Rita's Italian Ice came along and let us try their new flavor, PEAR..it tastes great. Of Course, Swedish Fish is my all time favorite.

I waited all week long to take a "double-class" at Sunshine Wellness. That's right , a Friday night, start with Kettlebell, and move on to spin, that was 2 hours and 1200 calories GONE. I am going to be very sore tomorrow. Everyone in the 6 week challenge is kicking ass, big time. We share our stories, what we eat, how much we have lost, the pants that now fit, the classes we love, etc....tonight some ladies were talking sushi, I'm sorry, not a fan!  Shar, Jessica, Rosalie, Tracy, Matt, Amanda,  Maddie, everyone kicked it out. I am beat, tired....and ready for my R&R...what the heck its mothers day weekend, and its QUIET here...

Thank you to David and Stacy, Jason and Kelly,  for such an unbelievable feeling you give to everyone who walks in the door at Sunshine Wellness. I have said it before and I will say it again, there is nothing like this place. Ask anyone. We are all individuals searching for the exact same thing....and we have great chemistry when we are all together.

xo
j
We are all in it together, and we have formed beautiful friendships while encouraging one another.

The First Kiss

My first kiss to my husband inspired my run for the night. Well, that and the slice of pizza I ate today. I spent the afternoon at Thaddius Stevens College in Lancaster. Very nice little campus and Eric seemed to like it, I like the bible college which is a stones throw from the dorm and I commented, "now there is where you can find a nice girl" Of course, he looked at me and my crazy self and as any 16 year old would say to his mom, "yea right"

I'm being serious. That being said, the tour was about two hours, and we headed home, discussed the day, and  lovey and I made dinner.. Chops on the grill, a fab salad, and some rice and green beans.
Afterwards, everyone goes their separate ways, well, Katie is still at her friends, Eric is with his buddies, Alex and Michael are at boy scouts and Holly was at dance.

clean-up is done, and I have some free time....off for a run....Some days are good, some days my head just cant seem to get it together. It was that piece of pizza I think....I laced up my sneakers, listening to Adelle, I was off..to River Road..one mile, two mile, watching the river run with the sun setting on it, I love my neighborhood and the great location I can run...I came to the place where I kissed my husband for the first time..."Kellys Lock," .that is what encouraged me to run a little further.  Onward to mile three, and finally mile four. It was that little thought that was in my mind, the very first time he laid his lips on mine. It sounds so sappy doesn't it? I will never forget it. I never had someone  make me feel so important, so special, It was love from the very first kiss. He is still passionate about every thing he does for me and with me. His kiss gave me the energy and strength to go further faster.

Running is all in your mind, if you have inner strength, you will do it. endurance is a must, Mind over matter is where its at. And the first kiss kinda helps on days when you just don't think you have the energy to walk another step.

Take a minute to remember your very first kiss...bring it back. Mind over matter.

Today is National day of Prayer, I thank God for our children and their health, our families, our friends and the beauty that some take for granted. I thank God everyday for blessing me with an amazing man. He gives me air to breath and a kiss that is worth a million memories.

I wonder if he ever reads my blogs?

one by one

Well Wednesday has a new meaning to me....Wednesday Weigh in, there is only ONE problem. I need to stick to ONE scale. I love the number on my home scale in the morning.
However, I still enjoy the scale at Sunshine Wellness because tonight it told me I lost yet ONE more pound since last week. Tonight it was a kettlebell mixed with TRX, Friday I have a double class with Rosalie....look out.. we do more talking and laughing then working out, but seriously, we somehow sweat out butts off.

My pants seem to be fitting better, I am so conscious of the foods I eat, but I am looking forward to pizza sometime soon! The folks at Sunshine Wellness are simply the BEST. all of them.

Today was fairly quiet...nothing wrong with that.

I have to go concentrate on Idol now....its mindless...

Im looking forward to this weekend. I love when all the kids are together..it can be stressful, but its all good. for real.

xo
j

UGHHHH!

Can you hear me loud and clear? UGHHHHHH that is the sound of me grunting, groaning, FREAKING OUT.

Teenager number 3 has his license. Let it be known, I am a nervous wreck. I need to learn that what happens to my kids when they leave this house is out of my control, they can only use the tools that we have given them and they must realize that they need to be these mini adults and make wise decisions.
First person I called was my dad.  "dad, Eric got his license today" his response, "oh God, now you'll never rest"  Does he know me or what?

Kate is pretty awesome abidding by the rules we have here, regarding driving.I like to think that I know exactly where she is at all times. This driving thing....its going to take the LIFE right outta me, its going to SUCK me dry. I have this little problem trusting their decisions. But I promise to work on them little by little.
I promise.

Alex has had his license for awhile now and he is really great about paying his insurance, paying for  gas, getting to and from work and school, and taking care of his car.

Now, let us remember, this is DAY one with Eric and his liscense.....My favorite bumper sticker that I once saw. NEVER DRIVE FASTER THAN YOUR ANGELS CAN FLY.

I believe in angels and I believe that I have to start letting go, for as much as this KILLS me. I will try my best.

On a good note, i stopped by the office at the high school today and the woman in the office said, Eric is a good kid, he may not have the entire package together, but he has it together and is a sweet kid. I like to think so.  All of these kids are different, I love them to pieces. They just dont understand tough love.

Sometimes I think my  mom and dad are still trying to teach me that.
Being on the other side of parenting.....is quite the ride. But I swear I never made my parents worry this much. Did I?

I need to go design a parking lot now for the front of our house.

Proud to be an American

Do you feel safer now that Bin Laden is dead? Or are you anxiously waiting for attacks? I am content. We should all be content. The face of destruction we will no longer be looking at, or fear. Our only hope is our soldiers be sent home soon. Give us freedom Please.

We will all remember this day. We all hoped for it, we all wondered why in the hell it would take so long, why was it so difficult to find him.

Let Freedom ring, its our prayers for our troops everyday.

We will indeed continue to fear for the men and women who fight for our country, I suppose it like tracking a tornado or really bad storm then it turns into a watch, and then a warning. however when we track the next step of our evil enemy....it comes without warning, you just have to wait and feel anxious.

My County Tis of thee sweet land Of liberty.........

Alas, he is Gone...Bin Laden you have destroyed many of our soldiers, their families, their friends. You have taken them away, too young. you have brutally taken away more than a human can understand. We don't care about you anymore. We really never did, but our troops never quit, they never gave up, they continued to hunt you down like the ugly, murderer you are.

We are proud of our Country, We wave our flag and cover our hearts with the sweet success of defeat. however, and sadly enough its not over.  But we will forever be THE HOME OF THE BRAVE.

Rest in peace Americans.

thank you soldiers...everywhere.

May Flowers :)

love this Crowd today

March of Dimes Walk this Morning was a great success! The outpouring of community support really is amazing, always there when you need them.

greg and kirsten Miller

The three mile walk was meant to understand and feel what the other parents, grandparents and children go through with tiny babies, some of them unborn, only to make sure they are healthy and happy. 

It's day ONE of May and I am moving forward with my final fundraiser until summer ends. I am more or less taking the summer off. I need it, its gone from a wedding last July....and has not stopped! Its been busy with five teenagers and not missing games, dances, awards, and since some are driving, it has been a little easier, but I need to catch my breath, and when I am back with my love of fundraising in September...who knows where it will lead.

But this fundraiser I want it to be one of the best....call me selfish if you have to , but I am loving working with Special Olympics of Berks County. I want my friends from Pottsville to come, I want all of Berks to come together. May 14th. 1pm gates open with alot of neat stuff. 2pm is the game.
I want smiling faces everywhere. I will have plenty of details to follow, Just remember the date. And the location. Muhlenberg girls softball field.

Going to whip up a healthy dinner....of some sort...the Wellness Challenge continues at Sunshine Wellness. I have been making some great choices!

Liz, Jenifer, and myself

Have a great week ahead.