School daze

Remember when school didn't begin each year until early September?  In most places it was the day after Labor Day.  Now it begins much earlier and where I live, it is year round.  (There is a brief break each June).  Are we being kind to our kids or are we putting them into a daze?

Such an outpouring

Kindness comes in so many colors and in the past few days I have seen more that usual, with so much directed toward me.  There has been such an outpouring of love and caring that I am truly overwhelmed.  I received birthday greetings from a few folks I seldom see or hear from, there was a card from the management company that owns the property where I live, relatives and friends sent well-wishes, and I even had some kind thoughts from a waiter when he found out it was my birthday.  Wonderful it was and I am so grateful.  It is my wish that everyone be able to experience that kind of love and kindness!

C E L E B R A T E

It's my birthday, but as much as I love a good party, I have never really liked to focus on myself, not even for a day.  I write a blog called "It's NOT about me," focusing on those heroes who make a difference in the world.  Even today isn't really about me.  My mom and dad were the ones who made it all happen.  Every year as I celebrate, I think first of my parents, especially Mom, and all they gave me.  They were such kind and loving people.  That is something to celebrate!

Remembering Judge Caprio

We received the sad news yesterday that Municipal Court judge Frank Caprio had passed away following a courageous fight against cancer.  In his memory, I'd like to share these words of his:  "Each sunrise is life’s way of giving us a brand-new page to write on. What you choose to fill it with, kindness, gratitude, love, and hope, is entirely up to you.  No matter what challenges yesterday held, today is a fresh chance to do good, to make someone smile, and to remind the world that compassion still matters.  Step into this day with courage, live it with kindness, and end it with gratitude."  Rest in peace Judge Caprio.