Happy old year, Happy new year

Trust that still, small voice that says, "This might work and I'll try it."
Diane Mariechild


The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.

Eleanor Roosevelt


this year has been a year of amazing miracles: I did the impossible, graduated from college, was accepted into a graduate program
my children found their grove/grace
my family finally came full circle.
and I finally decided that I am the person I need to be, even if at times those around me wonder (what is she doing ?) :)
so all in all this has been a year of splendor,wonder and most of all blessings beyond comparison:)

I leave the year with a deep sigh of gratefulness
and I receive the new year with the faith that all things are possible with God and that everything else is not important, because if God wants you to have it nothing or no one can stop you from getting it:)
Thank You God for all things, which I have received and for all the blessings which are coming, because I ask and I will receive:)
God is Good all the time:)

a true wedding blessing to all:)

Our baby boy is married, a true blessing to many especially to us. today is his first day gone and has called twice already, we miss each other, or he just needs directions:)




The Apache Wedding Blessing

Now you will feel no rain,
for each of you will be
shelter to the other.

Now you will feel no cold,
for each of you will be
warmth to the other.

Now there is no more loneliness,
for each of you will be
companion to the other.

Now you are two bodies,
but there is only one
life before you.

Go now to your dwelling place,
to enter into the days
of your togetherness.

And may your days
be good and long
upon the earth.

smile at the cold

Winter is the season in which people try to keep the house as warm as it was in the summer, when they complained about the heat.

keep your eyes open for the spirit

I wake up in the morning asking myself what can I do today, how can I help the world today."

Julia Butterfly Hill

I am amazed that life can be so full of blessings
sometimes we get so wrapped up in our own STUFF that we could miss the spirit :)
I have had some wonderful examples of the Christmas spirit, I call these Santa moments, God has opened my eyes to some opportunities to bless and be blessed recently, so keep your eyes open around you and step out of your own life to bless others, and sometimes these strangers are blessed just by your ability to do a random act of kindness so keep your eyes open and bless someone you don't know today :)
when you have blessed them you will know:) by the look on their face :)
and your only response should be Merry Christmas:)

be blest and share it:)

smilemaker wants you smile

Being an Overcomer
TGIF Today God Is First Volume 2, by Os Hillman

"How long, O LORD? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and every day have sorrow in my heart? How long will my enemy triumph over me?" (Ps 13:1-2).
Have you ever heard someone jokingly say, "It's not easy being me?" This expression is poking fun at their unique personality or challenges they face in life. Well, it wasn't easy being King David.
His life was a life of extreme highs and extreme lows. He was a shepherd, a political leader, a builder, a prophet, a businessman, a warrior, a lover, a giver, a murderer and a worshiper. He must have been criticized by others as being hypocritical in his early career. In each of these roles he achieved things for God but he also failed God on many occasions. He had a creative-type personality, which is often very passionate with many mood swings. We see this side of him when he unabashedly danced before the Lord in front of his subjects almost naked (2 Sam 6:14).
When David wrote his psalms he was honest about what he was feeling. When he feared his enemies he expressed it. When he could not understand why God was silent, he expressed it as in the psalm above.
However, David never stayed in the place of despair. He often ended his psalms like this one. "But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation. I will sing to the LORD, for he has been good to me" (Ps 13:5-6).
David chooses to focus on what God has done for him, not what He has not done. If you are waiting for a breakthrough with God, be honest with Him about your hopes and dreams. However, also affirm your faith and trust in Him to accomplish His purposes through your life. Be an overcomer.

smilemaker wants everyone to accept the future with open arms:) and a closed fist:)

If reality isn't working for you, change it. If there are limitations that hold you back, transcend them.
Reality is what you make of it. Life is the way you choose to live it.

Gently accept the way things are. And then put the energy of your focus on exactly how you would like for things to be.

Everything in your world happens for a reason. Get yourself some good, meaningful, compelling reasons and use them to drive events forward.

You don't have to settle for anything less than the absolute best for yourself and your world. For you can act in every moment with the positive, purposeful energy of your own unique life.

Give your sincere best in every moment, at every opportunity. And make the reality of life as outstandingly beautiful as you know it can be.

-- Ralph Marston

smilemaker is sharing the light

Sometimes our light goes out, but is blown again into instant flame by an encounter with another human being. Each of us owes the deepest thanks to those who have rekindled this inner light.

Albert Schweitzer

keep a smile on your face:)

Behind every shadow of life is the great light of God.

Paramahansa Yogananda

don't worry think happy:)

Your thoughts show

Thoughts can feel like they are private and hidden deep inside of you. Yet they have an influence that extends far beyond you.
What if others could know what you were thinking? Would it change the content of your thoughts?

In many ways, other people can and do know what you are thinking. Because your thoughts are faithfully expressed by the life you lead.

If you're constantly thinking negative, limiting thoughts, people will be able to tell just by looking at you and your life's conditions. In the same way, when you fill your mind with positive, empowering thoughts, that will be wonderfully obvious.

You might be able to hide the specific details of your thoughts. Yet you cannot hide the true nature of those thoughts.

Your thoughts, whatever they may be, are expressed in every aspect of your life. Continually guide those thoughts to positive places, and your whole world will follow.

-- Ralph Marston

be free to smile:)

“Ultimately we know deeply that the other side of every fear is freedom.”
Marilyn Ferguson

football makes me smile:)

Georgia Tech wins!!!! so Lit D's photo has to go up for a year:)




do we even have to say it, the big game is today and we are for the Big GT, so is lit D
this picture was on his thanksgiving place mat ,




Great Aunt Ro and Grandma send him a horse, he seems to like it:)

Thankful times

just take a minute today, before it gets crazy with food, to give thanks, sometimes we are so busy having a pity party that we forget exactly how blessed we are. we have family, a home and most of all people who love us. so stop thinking inward and pour yourself out and you will see the return is amazing:)



“Sometimes our light goes out but is blown into flame by another human being. Each of us owes deepest thanks to those who have rekindled this light.”
Albert Schweitze

get ready to give thanks:)

Thank You for This Food
A 4-year-old boy was asked to return thanks before a big dinner. The family members bowed their heads in expectation. He began his prayer, thanking God for all his friends, naming them one by one. Then he thanked God for Mommy, Daddy, brother, sister, Grandma, Grandpa, and all his aunts and uncles. Then he began to thank God for the food. He gave thanks for the turkey, the dressing, the fruit salad, the cranberry sauce, the pies, the cakes, even the Cool Whip.

Then he paused, and everyone waited--and waited. After a long silence, the young fellow looked up at his mother and asked, "If I thank God for the broccoli, won't he know that I'm lying?"

Smilemaker is reminded of what counts:)

believe there's a hero in all of us, that keeps us honest, gives us strength, makes us noble,.. Spider-Man 2”


somedays we feel like we are sliding back on our goals, but then you are inspired by heros:
QBF you are my hero, you doing today what I know a year ago you could not even imagine:)
congrats and keep up the good work

Smilemaker is reminded again :)

as I begin a new day, one of the ways I spend time with God is by watching Joyce Myers ,
her topic today: Change Your Mind

how exciting I love changing my mind, and most exciting it sounded familiar, yeah, it was the conference
me and QBF attended, I loved it then and needed to hear it again.

Suffering the flesh: 1 peter 4:1,2,
1 Peter 4 >>
GOD'S WORD
1 Since Christ has suffered physically, take the same attitude that he had. (A person who has suffered physically no longer sins.) 2 That way you won't be guided by sinful human desires as you live the rest of your lives on earth. Instead, you will be guided by what God wants you to do.
this scripture can be compared to (every time you don't get what you want you have a fit) Joyce reminds us to stop being baby christians and stop trying to get our way.

what we need to do is obey God no matter what it cost me. I will do what I have to do to serve God, even if it means leaving behind things and people who do not add to the process. (boy that part is deep, sometimes people in your life distract you from your purpose because they spend so much time on things which distract, keep focus:)

ok, enough of this fabulous event, keep on keeping on, is what we must do, today, tomorrow, and always:)
keep your chin up, and smile:)

Smilemaker love a good smile:)

A kindergarten teacher gave her class a "show and tell" assignment. Each student was instructed to bring in an object to share with the class that represented their religion.

The first student got up in front of the class and said, "My name is Benjamin and I am Jewish and this is a Star of David."The second student got up in front of the class and said, "My name is Mary. I'm a Catholic and this is the Crucifix."

The third student got in up front of the class and said, " My name is Tommy and I am Baptist and this is a casserole."

keep on changing and growing


A small adjustment

A small adjustment in your approach can make a big difference in your results. Explore your alternatives and you'll discover a path to improved performance.
Sometimes, doing a task at a different time of the day can cause a major improvement in your effectiveness. Or perhaps doing things in a slightly different sequence will make the rewards more rewarding.

If you're already getting it ninety-nine percent right, work on that other one percent. It can make all the difference in the world.

No failure is permanent and no failure is a complete failure. Learn from the portion of the effort that went wrong, change it, and recombine it with the part that went right.

Rarely is it necessary to throw out everything you're doing. Instead, look for ways to fine-tune your efforts until you get the results you desire.

Be curious, be objective, be creative and be flexible. A little bit of change can put you over the top.

-- Ralph Marston

keep your chin up:)

life is goes at you fast, so keep up, or it will pass you by


A higher standard

If things are not working well for you where you are, raise yourself to a higher place. Choose to raise your standards.
Consistently expect more of yourself and you will get it. The quality of your life is driven by the quality of your standards.

Are your efforts not bringing the results you seek? Then find a way to improve, enhance and expand those efforts.

Yes, you can do it. There's always room for improvement, and with each little improvement you raise your standards and become more effective.

Don't fall into the trap of blaming the economy, the weather, other people, or cruel fate. Step up from where you are to a higher place, and commit to making a better life for all those around you.

Align yourself with your highest, most authentic purpose. Life will always meet your standards, so raise those standards high.

-- Ralph Marston

start the week right:)

Let His Love Show
Today's Scripture
Do you ever feel when you wake up on a Monday , like this is going to be the best day ever?
well it will be , just start it right:) have a great Monday

“We know, dear brothers and sisters, that God loves you and has chosen you to be his own people” (1 Thessalonians 1:4, NLT).
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria

Paul starts his letter to the Thessalonians with a compliment and exhortation about how well they were living. He could see God’s love in them. He told them that the way they responded to the Gospel and the way the Holy Spirit confirmed their faith was evidence that God was holding them in high esteem. In other words, by their actions, they were letting God’s love show through them.

When others look at your life, do they know that God loves you? Can they see the change in you? Do they know you are a follower of His? Remember, the evidence is in your words and actions. The most important thing you could ever know and show is that God loves you. His love changes us. His love empowers us. His love takes us to new levels. His love gives us eternal life. Open your heart fully and receive His love today. Then turn around and love Him in return by following His commands. Make the decision today to let His love show all over you!
A Prayer for Today

Father in heaven, thank You for loving me, for empowering me, and changing me to be more like You. Have Your way in my heart so that I can be a shining light of Your love to the people around me. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

smilemaker loves peace:)

1 Peter 3:10-11
For the one who wants to love life and see good days must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from uttering deceit.
And he must turn away from evil and do good;
he must seek peace and pursue it.

Be peaceful on purpose: then laugh this story should help everyone enjoy everyday it takes a few minutes to read , but it will help you enjoy your day more:)



Jerry is the kind of guy you love to hate. He is always in a good mood and always has something positive to say. When someone would ask him how he was doing, he would reply, "If I were any better, I would be twins!" He was a unique manager because he had several waiters who had followed him around from restaurant to restaurant.

The reason the waiters followed Jerry was because of his attitude. He was a natural motivator. If an employee was having a bad day, Jerry was there telling the employee how to look on the positive side of the situation.

Seeing this style really made me curious, so one day I went up to Jerry and asked him, I don't get it! You can't be a positive person all of the time. How do you do it?" Jerry replied, "Each morning I wake up and say to myself, Jerry, you have two choices today. You can choose to be in a good mood or you can choose to be in a bad mood.

I choose to be in a good mood. Each time something bad happens, I can choose to be a victim or I can choose to learn from it. I choose to learn from it. Every time someone comes to me complaining, I can choose to accept their complaining or I can point out the positive side of life. I choose the positive side of life.

"Yeah, right, it's not that easy," I protested. "Yes, it is," Jerry said. "Life is all about choices. When you cut away all the junk, every situation is a choice. You choose how you react to situations. You choose how people will affect your mood. You choose to be in a good mood or bad mood. The bottom line: It's your choice how you live life."

I reflected on what Jerry said. Soon thereafter, I left the restaurant industry to start my own business. We lost touch, but I often thought about him when I made a choice about life instead of reacting to it.

Several years later, I heard that Jerry did something you are never supposed to do in a restaurant business: he left the back door open one morning and was held up at gun point by three armed robbers. While trying to open the safe, his hand, shaking from nervousness, slipped off the combination. The robbers panicked and shot him. Luckily, Jerry was found relatively quickly and rushed to the local trauma center. After 18 hours of surgery and weeks of intensive care, Jerry was released from the hospital with fragments of the bullets still in his body.

I saw Jerry about six months after the accident. When I asked him how he was, he replied, "If I were any better, I'd be twins. Wanna see my scars?" I declined to see his wounds, but did ask him what had gone through his mind as the robbery took place. “The first thing that went through my mind was that I should have locked the back door," Jerry replied. "Then, as I lay on the floor, I remembered that I had two choices: I could choose to live or I could choose to die. I chose to live."

"Weren't you scared? Did you lose consciousness?" I asked. Jerry continued, "...the paramedics were great. They kept telling me I was going to be fine. But when they wheeled me into the ER and I saw the expressions on the faces of the doctors and nurses, I got really scared. In their eyes, I read 'he's a dead man.'

I knew I needed to take action." " What did you do?" I asked. "Well, there was a big burly nurse shouting questions at me," said Jerry. "She asked if I was allergic to anything. 'Yes,' I replied. The doctors and nurses stopped working as they waited for my reply. I took a deep breath and yelled, 'Bullets!' Over their laughter, I told them, 'I am choosing to live. Operate on me as if I am alive, not dead.'"

Jerry lived thanks to the skill of his doctors, but also because of his amazing attitude. I learned from him that every day we have the choice to live fully. Attitude, after all, is everything.

enjoy this song:)

No one as Irish as Barack OBama

O'Leary, O'Reilly, O'Hare and O'Hara
There's no one as Irish as Barack O'Bama

You don't believe me, I hear you say
But Barack's as Irish, as was JFK
His granddaddy's daddy came from Moneygall
A small Irish village, well known to you all

Toor a loo, toor a loo, toor a loo, toor a lama
There's no one as Irish As Barack O'Bama

He's as Irish as bacon and cabbage and stew
He's Hawaiian he's Kenyan American too
He’s in the white house, He took his chance
Now let’s see Barack do Riverdance

Toor a loo, toor a loo, toor a loo, toor a lama
There's no one as Irish As Barack O'Bama

I am Happy:) The Smilemaker

The path to true happiness

What is the path to true happiness? How far must you go to find happiness?
You need not go very far at all. For happiness is always inside you, ready whenever you are.

No object, no person, no circumstance will make you happy. You are always happy when you decide to be.

The good things in life do not cause happiness. It is precisely the other way around.

Allow happiness to flow out from you, and the good things in life will surround you and fill your world. Choose to be happy, with no conditions imposed upon that happiness, and you'll create the ideal conditions for your life.

Happiness is a beautiful gift you can give yourself no matter what. Give it freely and it will change your world.

-- Ralph Marston

Happy Sunday

Amaze yourself

Once you're up and running, keep going. Once you've worked to establish some momentum, make the most of it.
Don't stop when you've done just enough. With a little extra effort, you can achieve so much more.

You've spent a lot of time and effort getting to where you are. If you stop now you'll have to put even more effort into getting started again.

Keep going until you've far surpassed what you expected to do. Surprise and delight yourself with how much more you can get accomplished.

When you've already done what's good enough, that puts you in a great position. It's more effective to reach higher when you're already moving higher.

Momentum is an unstoppable force. Once you've got it, keep using it, and keep going until you're amazed at what you've done.

-- Ralph Marston

Bridezilla

I can finally talk about it , this pass weekend we participated in an episode of bridezilla, no not any of my brides, a friends wedding, we had an incredible unbelievable time, but I guess you have to watch the new season to see what happened, it had drama, cops and allot of fun, so we survived and now it's time for our weddings, we have 6 weeks for Brendan's and 7 months for Thomas, God is good and many times has a sense of humor, today we shopped for bridesmaid dresses what fun, now the list gets smaller:)

Dreams are the reality of tomorrow: Dean Marshall

weddings are crazy

I hope I get to heaven

"Every time we remember to say "thank you", we experience nothing less than heaven on earth." - Sarah Ban Breathnach

more family fun

these guys will also be getting married soon, sometimes we turn around and our world gets bigger and faster:)
God is good

we have new family members

So one day you turn around and our babies grow up, our baby boy has enlisted and will be our combat medic and he has asked the big question and she has said yes:)
so in 2008 we will have two weddings:) we are blest
do we need to say anything else:)
God is Good

Happy Day

We all have possibilities we don't know about. we can do things we don't even dream we can do
Dale Carnegie

It is easier to do a job right than to explain why you didn't
Martn Van Buren

this does not need words:)

Bless You

Claiming your own blessedness always leads to a deep desire to bless others.

Henri Nouwen

when I grow up

do you ever wonder what you will be when you grow up?

I did, I am still waiting, but my little brother has grown up to be an almost principle of a city school, he was the cute chubby kid who grew up to be the chubby adult, but he lost triple digits about 10 years ago, now he is a lean mean school machine. I wanted to share his photo, my little brother . he is scary now:)

running toward the future

Do you ever find something you have longed for accidently, I longed for a relationship with a long lost relative for years, but I was the one in the way of the relationship. a simple conversation , a gesture of kindness can turn a moment into forgiveness and a future:) so if you ever find yourself looking to find what you lost or thought you lost, just look within yourself and the mystery will be unfolded within yourself:) Faith will be the key you need to unlock the way:)


“To forgive is to set a prisoner free and discover that the prisoner was you.”
Lewis B. Smedes

learn spanish augusta

I am beginning a new journey, teaching spanish, my first week has been fast and furious
the opportunity to share the language with our town. the need seems to be out there and I am discovering that many have a desire to learn, so if you too want to learn visit learnspanishagusta blog and practice your spanish daily.

life is funny:)

Love is, above all the gift of oneself:)

do you ever think about this comment? it is so hard to love anyone or even admire them, if you can't find even take one minute of your day to speak to yourself and just give praise to God for the blessing of YOU:)
give yourself a Jesus Hug today:)

life:)

"Wise men talk because they have something to say.

Fools talk because they have to say something." -- Plato


which one do you associate with? life sometimes is confusing you look away for a minute and things change:)
our world is fast and changing, this week things will become clearer as to the path which is opening for us:)

the day is young make it yours

life does not stand still. Where there is no progress there is disintergration: Grenville Kleiser

goodness is the only investment that never fails: Henry David Thoreau

skill and confidence are an unconquered army: George Herbert

plodding wins the race : Aesop

some thoughts that come my way:)

sometimes daily inspirations can get you out of bed and turn your attitude around:)



there is only one way to fail and that is to quit

reflective thinking turns experience into insight : John Maxwell

we must use time creatively and forever realize that the time is always ripe to do right: Nelson Mandela

do not go where the path may lead. go instead where there is no path and leave a trail: Ralph Waldo Emerson

I am no afraid of storms, for I am learning how to sail my ship: Louisa May Alcott

things to do:)

so as I spend the week at Downtown Disney, I am making a list things to do and not do.
so tonight I ordered room service , too lazy to try to find a place to eat, my one treat while I am gone
a nice steak sandwich, a piece of chocolate cake and a glass of wine.
things not to do while away, if you know me, you know me and scary movies, well I'm watching the house on haunted hill, sure do miss QBF, , I'm talking to myself in my room, now that is really scary:) so the queen size suite is a bit scary tonight:)
enjoy your saturday night;)

strong women get what they want:)

Fear is the opposite of faITh, we daily struggle with these two but if we stick to IT we will go far:)
VGFitz



My great hope is to laugh as much as I cry; to get my work done and try to love somebody and have the courage to accept the love in return.
Maya Angelou


Congrats QBF:) another fun year on the way:)

never underestimate the power of what you are worth:)
VGFitz

I want to learn more:)

I want to learn more as I teach, so off I go to Florida to teach, not very excited about it, but I know it will be a blessing for me, as I teach, I will learn much:)

to teach and to preach only one letter difference, but it can change a life:)


Learn and know

Knowledge is one of the greatest treasures you can ever have. Each day is filled with countless opportunities to obtain more of it and to make good use of it, and no one can ever take it away from you.
In fact, the more you share what you know the more valuable that knowledge becomes to you. In knowledge there is great and continuously growing power.

Do not be content to hear secondhand from others how the world works. Take the initiative and make the effort to learn for yourself, and gain real, useful knowledge.

The amount and quality of knowledge you have will determine to a large extent the quality of your life. When you know what you need to learn, and when you know how to find it, anything becomes possible.

You already have great knowledge and you have access to much, much more. Achievement comes from using your knowledge to drive your actions toward the goals you have chosen.

Every day, every situation, every experience is a learning opportunity. Make good, purposeful use of what you know and learn, and there is no limit to what you can achieve.

-- Ralph Marston

beautiful people

The most beautiful people are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths. These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity, and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness, and a deep loving concern. Beautiful people do not just happen.

Elisabeth Kübler-Ross


wow I really think this is so true, let's celebrate the beautiful people today:)

new day, new smile:)

Finish each day and be done with it. You have done what you could. Some blunders and absurdities have crept in; forget them as soon as you can. Tomorrow is a new day. You shall begin it serenely and with too high a spirit to be encumbered with your old nonsense.

Ralph Waldo Emerson

keep going:)

Don’t overlook life’s small joys while searching for the big ones.” H. Jackson Brown, Jr.
“It does not matter how slowly you go. So long as you do not stop.” Confucius
“Don’t point a finger—lend a hand.” Author Unknown
“What I do best is share my enthusiasm.” Bill Gates

blind faith allows you to continue the journey;) VGF

Happy Thursday:)

“I can't change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination.”
Jimmy Dean


destination is an interesting word, it implies that you are moving ,
direction to be determined:)

last night as I talked and walked with QBF I heard my self say it,:
I am looking for purpose lately

and today my scripture from my devotional:)


come and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord.... and he will teach us of his ways and we will walk in his paths: Micah 4-2

so I will not ask about my purpose, I will only listen and wait:)

do your part daily:)

Service is the rent we pay for the privilege of living on this earth. It is the very purpose of life, and not something you do in your spare time.

Shirley Chisolm

Happy B Day girl

Just yesterday, she came into a house full of boys, she has been a ray of sun and a bucket full of smiles, a true gift from God:)

always the center of attention , because she deserves to be the queen:)

God Answers Prayer:)

yesterday, I facilitated two chapels, and the basic theme was prayer:)
I taught the kids about breath prayer:
as you take in air you say : thank you God
as you release air you say: for all things
so with every breath you are praising him, try it today:)
remember the Jesus Hug:)



We must no longer see prayer as preparation for action. Prayer must be understood as action itself, a way of responding, a potent spiritual weapon to be used in spiritual warfare against the most powerful forces in the world. Prayer is not undertaken instead of other actions, but as a foundation for all the rest of the actions we take.
Jim Wallistest

women in my life:)

today I saw some photos on facebook, that reminded me that I have women in my life that still influence me:)
for better or worse:)
so blessings go to them daily:)
my sister, who takes a great photo:)
and my mother, her and my sister together:) enjoy the photos

I feel like this lately:)

OK , I have officially become insane:) no not insane ,finally had it with the people who try to run you over, well guess what a few years ago I put my head down and walked away from what I thought were friends and in silence just took all the bull that came my way, well I learn a great lesson
I learned to face the giants and win!!! so I want to kick the monster's As_
yes I said it but just like this little girl I need to take it one step at a time:) enjoy this video, I love it:)

Smilemaker wants everyone to feel Great:)

here are my daily inspiration : I get them daily, but this week was so inspirational I want to share with all:)


courage is fear holding on a minute longer
General George S. Patton

(fear when complicated with rage becomes courage:) My meeting with a priest:) vgfitz



To fear love is to fear life
Bertrand Russell


No act of kindness no matter how small is ever wasted
Aesop

To live a creative life, we must lose our fear of being wrong
Joseph Chilton Pearce

I can live for two months on a good compliment
mark Twain
when someone pays you a compliment live always seems sunnier:) vgfitz

Let us so live that when we come to die even the undertaker will be sorry
Mark Twain

Rest your self today

somedays you wake up and know it is going to be a great day, other days you wake up and think thank God I'm alive, what is the difference:)


The sunshine?
the day of the week?

The amount of fret in your heart:O

so wake up today and drive the fret away with some rest, the best thing to do on Labor day, enjoy the rest:)

I will:)

find comfort where you can find it:)

Balancing comfort

Being comfortable can be nice and pleasant. Yet too much comfort can softly and steadily erode your sense of purpose and even your most treasured dreams.
Being too attached to comfort can prevent you from venturing forth and fulfilling your best possibilities. In order to maintain your level of comfort, you may well be tempted to compromise the values you hold dear.

Enjoy the comfort that you have attained, while being careful not to let that comfort become a prison. As nice as comfort can be, so much of life's richness lies outside the boundaries of your comfort zone.

As with most things in life, comfort is best when it is experienced in moderation and balance. Even comfort loses its desirability when it is the only thing you ever experience.

Enjoy and be truly thankful for the comforts in your life. At the same time, balance those comforts with real and demanding challenges.

Maintain a comfortable place in your world from which you can regularly emerge to take on the risks and challenges that will add so much richness to life. Outside your comfort zone, there are always new dreams waiting to be lived.

-- Ralph Marston

look forward with anticipation:)

Don't be content with looking at a rose as beautiful flower. Look at her with Love, so that she enters into your heart and awakens other forces in your heart and soul.

Omraam Mikhael Aivanhov



Step forward

A thousand disappointments in the past cannot equal the power of one positive action right now. Go ahead and go for it.
If you've previously told yourself that it can't be done, this is the moment to change your assumption. When you can dream it, imagine it and visualize it, you can do it.

Instead of making excuses, make some progress. Instead of looking back with regret, step forward with enthusiasm.

Choose to define yourself based on the person you know you can become. Choose to see your life in terms of the best of what is possible.

If you focus too much on the past, you'll be held back by limitations that may no longer even exist. Instead, look forward with positive expectation, and you'll find yourself quickly moving in a forward direction.

A new, fulfilling reality is calling to you. Step forward right now, and begin to make it happen.

-- Ralph Marston

SMILEMAKER is strong:)

I love this quote, because it reminds me where I've been, and reinforces where I'm going:)


I will always be a strong woman, even on my weakest days."
Copyright © 2008 Renee Scalfani

Smilemaker gets it now:)

I now know that silence is good:)

If you love truth, be a lover of silence. Silence, like the sunlight will illuminate you in God.

St. Issac - 7th Century Hermit Monk

Smilemaker knows this is true:)

Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a great battle.

Philo of Alexandria

Smilemaker does not worry:)

If I could tell the world just one thing it would be we're all okay, and not to worry cause worry is wasteful and useless in times like these. I won't be made useless, wont be idle with despair, I will gather myself around my faith, lights the darkness most fear.”
Jewel


“Take the first step in faith. You don't have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.”
Martin Luther King,

Smile :)

I could not help but to share this , just in case you missed it, just one more example of fear = anxiety= 0 peace, so allow your joy to spill unto others:)


Breathing room

Look back on your life up to this point and you'll quickly see that many of your worries and concerns were completely unfounded. So why do you still insist on cranking out those worries at every turn of events?
How many times have you looked back on an occasion with the regret that you didn't simply enjoy yourself? There's nothing you can do about those past regrets, but there's plenty you can do about right now.

It's ridiculously easy to enjoy life, no matter what the situation. It's just a matter of letting go.

Let go of the worry and anxiety, of the anger and envy, of the need to be right and the need to control everyone else. Let go of the need to have everything your way.

Underneath all those layers of need and worry and negativity, there is pure joy. When you simply accept what is, and choose to enjoy the goodness in it, life can be wonderfully rich and beautiful.

Stop worrying and fighting so much, and start enjoying a little more. Give joy some breathing room and it will flourish in your life.

-- Ralph Marston

why do you need a smilemaker?

the best thing about fear is , it gives you the courage to do what you might not ever imagine doing:)
VGRosario

somedays just having a conversation with a possible foe becomes a journey of fear,
but the past, the truth and faith always win:)

another quote from Ely


I believe that anyone can conquer fear by doing the things he fears to do,
provided he keeps doing them until he gets a record of successful experience behind him.”
Eleanor Roosevelt

smilemaker Jersey day:)

the power of forgiveness can spread the love;)
only if you look forward in faith :)

I keep reminding myself of Eleanor Roosevelt's quote daily, it is so powerful and contagious:)


No one can make you feel inferior without your consent." -
-- Eleanor Roosevelt

find peace where you can find it:)

in search of peace, a quest of all ages, and I am on it again,
why is it when you realize you have peace, it leaves you?
because you begin to doubt, so doubt be gone, I am going to kick it today:)




Unending peace will come to you only when you are a dedicated person, ready to give. You can never become poor by giving; on the other hand, you will become richer and richer…. For such a person, no advertising is necessary. In such a soul you see the light shining.

Sri Swami Satchidananda

Hola Augusta , a new page, a new day

for more info visit :)
http://learnspanishaugusta.blogspot.com/

Smilemaker is beginning to see thru the clouds:)

He Increases Strength
Do you ever feel as if you are walking around in a cloud? you know, many thoughts and not one clear, well that was where I was just a few days ago. then all of a sudden the voice is clear, now do I listen, or pretend not to hear. I think this time I have to do what brings me peace and joy. wow what a no brainer:) so follow the peace that is so clear when the clouds part:)


Today's Scripture
from Joel and Victoria Olsteen

He gives power to the faint and weary, and to him who has no might He increases strength causing it to multiply and making it to abound (Isaiah 40:29 AMP).


Whatever you have need of today, know that God is your source and supply. Do you need strength? God promises that He increases our strength and causes it to multiply. One of the ways God fills us with His strength is by giving us His joy. When we have joy, we have strength to overcome. Joy is a supernatural force that is deposited on the inside of you. As you meditate on the goodness and faithfulness of our God, you won’t be able to help but feel His joy. Like rivers of living water, joy will flow forth from you, refreshing and strengthening you so that you have the power to overcome every obstacle you may be facing. If you feel faint or weary, remember, there’s a harvest of blessing in store for you. Let faith rise in your heart as you meditate on His promises. Let Him fill you with His peace and joy so that you will have an abundance of strength. As you do, you will be empowered to live the life of victory the Lord has in store for you!


A Prayer for Today

Heavenly Father, today I come to You and ask that You fill me with Your peace and joy. Let Your strength rise up on the inside of me so that I can embrace the victorious life You have planned for me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Smilemaker daily inspiration 2

Do things for others and you'll find your self consciousness evaporating, evaporating like morning dew
Dale Carnegie

Generosity is giving more than you can, and pride is taking less than you need
Kahil gibran

Success isn't a result of spontaneous combustion you must set yourself on fire
Arnold Glasow

Pessimism never won any battle
Dwight D. Eisenhower

Motivation is what gets you started habit is what keeps you going

imagination is more important than knowledge
Albert Einstein

smilemaker daily inspiration

Do not look for sanctuary in anyone but yourself
the Buddha

If you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain.
Dolly Parton

Shoot for the moon. even if you miss, you'll land among the stars
Les Brown

Don't let failure get you down Babe Ruth struck out1300 times
Lou Holtz

What the heart knows today, the head will under stand tomorrow
James Stephens

if it doesn't kill you it will make you smile:)

.
Eleanor Roosevelt said it best: "No one can make you feel inferior without your permission." In other words, although the feelings are normal, it's what you do with them and how you process them that reconnect you to your power.

start today:)

Start small

Even the smallest accomplishment has great value. Because it sets in motion a positive momentum.
Once you begin to create value, you easily and naturally move toward creating even more value. The best thing about success is that it provides greater opportunity for even more success.

Go ahead and start small, and if you're unable to start small, then start tiny. The point is, do whatever you can with whatever you have, and that will be plenty to get you moving in a positive, productive direction.

There is always something you can do. There is always some small step forward that you can make right now.

Your ability to accomplish does not get used up. In fact, the more you use it, the more powerful it grows.

Create a little bit of success, and experience how great it feels. From that positive, empowered place, there's no limit to where you can go.

-- Ralph Marston

smilemaker knows that Dreams come true.....

For most of us, dreams come true only after they do not matter, Only in childhood do we ever have the chance of making dreams come true when they mean everything.”



“Good plans shape good decisions. That's why good planning helps to make elusive dreams come true.”

take time to sit back and enjoy:)

ALEX NOBLE:
If I have been of service, if I have glimpsed more of the nature and essence of ultimate good, if I am inspired to reach wider horizons of thought and action, if I am at peace with myself, it has been a successful day.

keep your chin up:)

Nobody trips over mountains. It is the small pebble that causes you to stumble. Pass all the pebbles in your path and you will find you have crossed the mountain. ~Author Unknown

QBF true friendship:)

Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away”


a quote for QBF:) it will make you really smile:)
Friendship is like peeing in your pants everyone can see it but only you can feel the warmth:) (thanks for a great meeting today)


more quotes that inspired today:)


“I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

Maya Angelou


“Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind.”

Dr. Seuss



“One day at a time--this is enough. Do not look back and grieve over the past for it is gone; and do not be troubled about the future, for it has not yet come. Live in the present, and make it so beautiful it will be worth remembering.”


“Life is the art of drawing without an eraser.”
John W. Gardner

I got mail:)

In their place

There is a quick and easy technique that can vastly improve your effectiveness when dealing with other people. It can make you a better parent, spouse, friend, coach, negotiator, marketer or leader.
What is this technique? It is simply to imagine yourself in the other person's place.

By so doing, you can quickly create valuable and genuine rapport with others. You can significantly improve your ability to understand, to persuade and to motivate.

You'll find that you can work through difficult, conflict-filled situations in such a way that everyone emerges a winner. You'll discover countless ways in which you can contribute real value and make a positive difference.

Everyone desires to be more fully understood. By imagining yourself in another person's situation, you greatly improve both your understanding and your ability to be understood.

Each individual is blessed with a unique, one-of-a-kind perspective. By seeking to know perspectives other than your own, you can accomplish many wonderful and useful things.

-- Ralph Marston


today I also received my degree in the mail , (it looked smaller than I expected) finally it is done:)

a normal day:)

As in a theatre, the eyes of men, after a well-graced actor leaves the stage, are idly bent on him that enters next.”
William Shakespeare


it is wonderful to have a "normal" life once in a while, go to a movie with your child, go home go to the theatre with your husband and enjoy a great show and sit with the president of your college for dinner, now that is priceless:) a normal day:) and adult conversation:) fun , true fun:)

Smile it's Friday:)

A Very Minor Sin

A famous professor of surgery died and went to heaven. At the pearly gates he was asked by the gatekeeper, "Have you ever committed a sin you truly regret?""Yes," the professor answered. "When I was a young candidate at the Hospital of Saint Lucas, we played soccer against a team from the Community Hospital, and I scored a goal, which was off-side. But the referee did not see it, and the goal won us the match. I regret that now."

"Well," said the gatekeeper. "That is a very minor sin. You may enter."

"Thank you very much, Saint Peter," the professor answered.

"You're welcome, but I am not Saint Peter," said the gatekeeper. "He is having his lunch break. I am Saint Lucas."

Lucifer:)

this guy was the angel of light and he blew it, yes, because he got greedy
why would I even mention him today, well it's that post for me 666 and why not mention it,
it is all around us, so be aware of it or it just might burn you:)

don't miss it:)

sometimes we are going alone and we don't even notice the world around us,
do you ever feel that way?
please take the time today to notice your world and enjoy it:)


yesterday a 5.6 earthquake hits California and son number 2 misses it as he walks to work

he feels cheated, he did not even notice it

I drive home from a day at the ccd office and an old friend runs into me, thank God it was a light hit:)
we are all ok

I guess the word near miss was a good one for today for our family:)

No one can make you feel inferior without your consent, but you'd be a fool to withhold that from your superiors.

Today I begin the fight back against the intimidation of the world.
why don't we just face our fears head on?
why do we wait for the attack?
I am done with waiting for the next shoe to drop, from now on, I face the fears and I fight it like a gypsy :)

a side note Grades are in::::)))) a C is a C and all is done:) thanks for the prayers QBF

Peace:)

“I do not want the peace which passeth understanding, I want the understanding which bringeth peace.”
Helen Keller

this statement helps me think of the future it is only possible with peace ;)

Build upon what you build

You may not think you have what it takes to persist in your efforts for long periods of time. Yet all you must do is persist for just a moment, and then another moment, and then another.
The energy necessary for achievement is never going to be fully available to you when you begin. But go ahead and begin, and that energy comes to you as you require it.

Do not be dismayed at how long the journey will take. Instead, be thankful and enthusiastic about the one particular step you can take right now.

Success creates its own capacity for fulfillment as it moves along. Your job is to keep moving it along.

Give your best to the task at hand. That will prepare you and equip you for the next task, and the next.

Build what you can with what you have, and then build upon what you build. In this simple, steady, accessible way, whatever you envision is within your reach.

-- Ralph Marston

keep your light on :)

Never seem more learned than the people you are with. Wear your learning like a pocket watch and keep it hidden. Do not pull it out to count the hours, but give the time when you are asked.
Lord Chesterfield (1694 - 1773)

Thanks:)

Can you see the holiness in those things you take for granted –
a paved road or a washing machine?
If you concentrate on finding what is good in every situation,
you will discover that your life will suddenly be filled with gratitude,
a feeling that nurtures the soul.

Rabbi Harold Kush

smilemaker is inspired:)

Do you ever wonder how I stay inspired to smile even when it is crappy all around me:)
my daily inspirations arrive daily to my cell phone, my e-mail and I really do read them, so I wanted to share some from the last few days:) the crappy week is almost over, I know it is only Tuesday, but it already feels good to say that vacation is around the corner :)


INSPIRATIONS FOR THE WEEK:)

the best way to prepare for life is to begin to live
Elbert Hubbard

part of the happiness of life consists not in fighting battles but in avoiding them
Norman Vincent Peale

when patterns are broken new worlds emerge
Tuli Kupferberg


Never talk defeat, use words like hope, belief, faith and victory
Norman Vincent Peale

which one do you relate to today:)

OR


The best way to make your dreams come true is to wake up.”
Paul Valery

the shepherd and smilemaker

As I sat in Mass, I was looking at our Good Shepherd statue, it is beautiful, simple and powerful.
I was reminded of how the Good Shepherd takes care of me.
I know that he is constantly working to protect me and keep me away from harm,and he is strong and gentle.
here are some of the ways I know he is so near.




my shepherd is able to carry me when I am hurt and when I think I can't do it. his strong presence enpowers me to accomplish what I need to do to get back on my feet. even when I am alone I feel his strong arms close by.










when I wonder to a place that is unreachable he is there to keep my feet firm on the ground and protect me from myself. never giving up on me, even when I have given up on myself.




lastly I am the sheep who listens but from time to time go just a bit too close to the water, just to see how it might feel. but he is there to gently nudge me back on course. his gentle reminder keeps me safe and on course to the goal he has set.
he is patient with me even when I seem to not listen, or care.
I am blessed daily by my protector:)

smilemaker is taking a deep breath:)

Daring to dream what is deepest in our collective longings is what makes us most human and fully alive.

Wendy Wright

a simple thought today:)

Eleanor Roosevelt: Wonderful Life
The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.

smilemaker is going to watch Hanna Montana

don't be surprize when I get excited about the new movie:) number 2 son will have a part of an extra in it and I can't wait to see him on the big screen.

first gig:)
there are no small parts only small actors:)
break a leg Mr. Kyle;)

begin each day as it was meant for greatness

smilemaker is believing

sometimes you look up to the sky and you forget that there is a God, well not really, you are overwhelmed by the vastness of the stars and the multitude of it all. well I know that in life that is also a fact. Last night QBF and I were having a feeding frenzy with a special issue that has presented itself in our lives again.(you know we are like conjoined twins when things happen it happens to both of us) (I know rambling I know) as I thought about it last night I had a revelation of sorts, God sends us gift that are disguised in wolf clothing. just when we are beginning to become comfortable with our situations and ourselves ,you know the women of God he intends us to be, he sends messengers who will make us stronger:) that is by far the lesson I see coming,

So QBF do not fear, because fear is our faith slipping , remember my Jesus smile I always share and lets kick some serious ass, and I mean that in the nicest way. last time he gave us this test we coward and weaken, because we were not as strong as we are now, this time watch out because we are more than a conquerer:)
so smile and remember to kick low:) the target is large:)



sometimes God sends stars that shine and other times he sends starts that fall:)

smilemaker gives you a smile today:)

Why We Live as Long as We Do...

Author Unknown


On the first day God created the cow. God said, "You must go to the field with the farmer all day long and suffer under the sun, have calves and give milk to support the farmer I will give you a life span of sixty years."

The cow said, "That's a kind of a tough life you want me to live for sixty years. Let me have twenty years and I'll give back the other forty."

And God agreed.

On the second day, God created the dog. God said, "Sit all day by the door of your house and bark at anyone who comes in or walks past. I will give you a life span of twenty years."

The dog said, "That's too long to be barking. Give me ten years and I'll give back the other ten."

So God agreed (sigh).

On the third day God created the monkey. God said, "Entertain people, do monkey tricks, make them laugh. I'll give you a twenty year life span."


The monkey said, "How boring, monkey tricks for twenty years? I don't think so. Dog gave you back ten, so that's what I'll do too, okay?"

And God agreed again.

On the fourth day God created man. God said, "Eat, sleep, play. Do nothing, just enjoy, enjoy. I'll give you twenty years."

Man said, "What? Only twenty years? No way! Tell you what, I'll take my twenty, and the forty cow gave back, and the ten dog gave back and the ten monkey gave back. That makes eighty, okay?"

"Okay," said God. "You've got a deal."

So this is why for the first twenty years we eat, sleep, play, enjoy, and do nothing;

for the next forty years we slave in the sun to support our family;

for the next ten years we do monkey tricks to entertain our grandchildren;

and for the last ten years we sit in front of the house and bark at everybody.

one of my daily thoughts:)

just when I get tired and think , boy I need a vacation, I get my daily inspiration and it lifts me up,
just wanted to share it with you:)


those who try and fail are much wiser than those who never try for fear of failure:
andre bustanoby

26 year celebration:) July 3

Lobsters in a box:)



Lobster cooked











dinner is served:)

#1 son send lobsters from Boston and everyone made a great dinner to celebrate the anniversary :)

thanks guys for a great celebration of 26 years:)

May your heart be an altar, from which the bright flame of unending thanksgiving ascends to heaven.

St. Mary Euphrasia Pelletier
Embrace the World

breathless:)

There must be always remaining in every life, some place for the singing of angels, some place for that which in itself is breathless and beautiful.

Howard Thurman

Keep your eyes on on the finish line:)

OBSTACLES ARE THOSE FRIGHTFUL THINGS YOU SEE WHEN YOU TAKE YOUR EYES OFF YOUR GOAL :
HENRY FORD

Crailsheim Germany 1984:)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THE BABY BOY

our baby boy is born in Crailsheim
Life is great
a small miracle on a Wednesday morning
a golf day for the doctor
a 10 AM deadline

a little boy who smiles and he lights up the world
A man has taken his place in the world today
following his destiny to success


singing , dancing and playing, that's our baby boy
a calm man with purpose has taken his place

but just 24 years ago he was our baby

he goes to kindergarten and learns to read many books
a smart man who teaches us so much daily now

but just 24 years ago he was our baby

he travels the world and always shines
a man of integrity that does the right thing


the baby boy is now a man who shares his joy with so many
he is the man who shines through all darkness
he shares his thoughful heart with a smile
he is the baby boy , who just 24 years ago
arrived in Crailsheim


our young man
but he will always be that baby boy
just like that morning in Crailsheim


ich liebe dich
Guten Tag,
Herzlichen Glückwunsch zum Geburtstag!
go visit Crailsheim today (below link)

http://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&sl=de&

finding wisdom:)

True Wisdom is knowing we know nothing:)

Smilemaker is running:)

so it is official, I have taken on running:) yes believe it, it's the true:)
as of today my day is full of running so for the next 30 days I will not be on to blog too much, my run is fast and furious:)
so I will return when I have a true inspiration or laugh to write:) enjoy the run:)




Run toward the challenges

Of course it's difficult. That's what makes it so valuable.
The time, effort and commitment you put into reaching the goal have their own rewards, over and above the achievement itself. They make you stronger, more disciplined, and more effective.

When great effort is called for, great opportunities abound. When challenges and difficulties surround you, there is much value to be created.

Instead of cursing the need for sustained and focused effort, be genuinely thankful for the chance. For you are designed and equipped to get things done, and life is superbly rewarding when you do.

When difficult work is called for, step quickly forward with enthusiasm. It is truly your moment to shine, to grow, and to create according to your best expectations.

Run toward the challenges. It is in those challenges that you will fulfill your greatest dreams.

-- Ralph Marston

push toward the son:)

are you the flower or are you the snow?



Courage is not the towering oak that sees storms come and go; it is the fragile blossom that opens in the snow.

-Alice Mackenzie Swaim

silly smilemaker day:)

The fact that there is a photo of these two together means I have to print this top ten list:)




Top Ten List: Why Elvis Will Replace Jesus"


10. His motto "Taking Care of Business" appeals to the power structure better than "Jesus Saves."
9. White jumpsuits are more practical than white robes in most parts of the world.
8. Elvis had better songs!
7. Elvis had sex!
6. Elvis approved of his followers having sex!
5. The Presley-Jackson Estate will probably own most of the world anyway.
4. JC's disciples drove camels; Elvis' disciples drove Caddies. Which would you rather be?
3. You don't have to starve yourself to emulate Elvis.
2. JC's followers learned "turn the other cheek." Elvis' followers learned karate.
1. You're still reading this.

bible chat

we begin a new bible study;) join our group
myspace:)
fort gordon teen bible chat

http://www.myspace.com/fortgordonteenbiblechat

Enjoy the sun:)

A person should set his goals as early as he can and devote all his energy and talent to getting there. With enough effort, he may achieve it. Or he may find something that is even more rewarding. But in the end, no matter what the outcome, he will know he has been alive.”
Walt Disney

Smilemaker is fired up:)

how do you spread the word?

think about it and go do it today

Smilemaker is ready to dance:)

all week I have been dancing and singing, and you know what
it is so much fun
to do what the spirit moves you to do:) I am sure that God's plan is always changing and always fun:)
keep smiling and enjoy the power of Jesus;)

smilemaker wants to be brave:)

Jesus gives us the power to be brave:)
what a simple statement, but a very powerful one:)

The power to help others:)

Put a spark back into your life : )
give a hand to someone with out expecting anything in return:) it is the most powerful thing that you can do today.

Smilemaker is Thankful:)