Casting Call for those with loved ones diagnosed with breast cancer...

Do you want to be part of something dynamic and life changing?
Do you want to give back, to help those who are now where you were?

Please tell me your  cancer story...
What is your relation to the patient?
Tell me how you felt when you learned your loved one was sick.
What did you to to support her?
How did you know what to do?

This is for a research project I"m working on, I'd love to hear from you.


Thank you for your time!

Laura

Thursday's Brain Teaser

Can you find the man's face hidden in the coffee beans?
If you can do this in under 3 seconds, the NIH's website reports "the right side of your brain may be more developed than most"
The right side of your brain is generally associated with art, creativity, and imagination.

NIH-National Institute of Environmental Health Services.

Visit their site for more interesting brain teasers!
http://kids.niehs.nih.gov/games/illusions/lots_of_illusions.htm

Wiggle Your Toes Day - Fun Foot Facts

Your foot and ankle have 26 bones, 33 joints, and over 107 ligaments and 19 muscles.
Your foot has 1/4 of all bones in your body.

During the first year of a child's life their feet grow to 1/2 their adult size.  By age 12 a child's foot reaches 90% of it's adult size

The average foot gets 2 times longer when a person stands up

9 out of 10 women wear shoes that are too small for them

It is rare when both a person's feet are  the same size

A pair of feet have 250,000 sweat glands, producing 1/2 pint of perspiration daily

The pressure on the feet when running can be up to 4 times the runner's body weight

The average person takes 8,000 to 10,000 steps per day. In a lifetime that is 115,000 miles, enough to go around the circumference of the earth 4 times!  Women walk an average of 3 miles more per day then men

When walking your toes support 1/2 of your body weight. During an average day, that equates to hundreds of tons, which is the same as a fully loaded cement truck
 
Your feet mirror your general health, so foot aliments can be your first sign of serious medical problems. Signs of arthritis, diabetes, nerve and circulatory disorders can show their initial symptoms in your feet

Average shoe size for men is 10 1/2.  The record shoe size is 29.5 by Matthew McGrory,  He was 7'6", and over 5 feet tall when he graduated kindergarten. He was in several music videos, movies, and television shows. He was born in PA died in CA in 2005 at age 32 of natural causes

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Today is Work Like a Dog Day!

Today honors and recognizes the hardest working among us.

Some people skate by, doing as little as possible.  Others, do only what they have to.  Others still work like a dog.  While work is to be done, they dig in relentlessly and seldom take breaks until the job is done. 

Let's not confuse "Workaholics" with "Work like a dog".  Workaholics work all the time, even though they might not be working hard.  Those who work like a dog work hard while they are working, but they do no not work all the time.

Heaven knows Mama worked my tail off making me pose for all those dang pictures in not one book but two!  I work like a dog but I also sleep like a dog too!  It's all about balance. :)

Today is a day to show your appreciation for those who carry more than their load-those who work like a dog.

Give a smile, give a bigger tip, say "Thank you!" or Give yourself a pat on the back!

Go you!

Love,
Casey

All the Single Ladies..

You're single -whether for today, a year, or a lifetime.  Join millions of other single working women - divorced, widowed, ever-single, around the world who face challenges and share triumphs just like yours. You're one of the women of all ages who are building unique lives of their own choosing.
We celebrate your creativity, passion, and courage!

Happy Single Women's Day - Go YOU!

The Story of Life

It's been a long week, thought you  might enjoy some easy, informative reading :)

God created the dog and said: 'Sit all day by the door of your house and bark at anyone who comes in or walks past. For this, I will give you a life span of twenty years.' The dog said: 'That's a long time to be barking. How about only ten years and I'll give you back the other ten?' So God agreed. God created the monkey and said: 'Entertain people, do tricks, and make them laugh. For this, I'll give you a twenty-year life span.' The monkey said: 'Monkey tricks for twenty years? That's a pretty long time to perform. How about I give you back ten like the Dog did?' And God agreed. God created the cow and said: 'You must go into the field with the farmer all day long and suffer under the sun, have calves and give milk to support the farmer's family. For this, I will give you a life span of sixty years.' The cow said: 'That's kind of a tough life you want me to live for sixty years. How about twenty and I'll give back the other forty?' And God agreed again. God created man and said: 'Eat, sleep, play, marry and enjoy your life. For this, I'll give you twenty years.' But man said: 'Only twenty years? Could you possibly give me my twenty, the forty the cow gave back, the ten the monkey gave back, and the ten the dog gave back; that makes eighty, okay?' 'Okay,' said God, 'You asked for it.' So that is why for our first twenty years we eat, sleep, play and enjoy ourselves. 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 the grandchildren. And for the last ten years we sit on the front porch and bark at everyone. Life has now been explained to you.

Happy Hump Day! Time for a joke!

Time for a joke... an oldie but a goodie...

A woman had twin babies and fell asleep immediately after. A couple of weeks later she finally wakes up and asks the doctor "Where is my baby?!"
The doctor replies "They are both fine, you have a beautiful boy and girl. Your husband went back to work and you were out so long that your brother named them."
The woman looked concerned "Oh no. What did he name them?"
"He named the girl Denise," The doctor replies.
The woman, relieved "Well that's not so bad. What about the boy?"
"Denephew."

A package wrapped with a big bow

Dear Readers,
As I said yesterday, you may not know why certain people come and go during your lifetime and what change you may be making in someone's life.

Obviously we can't see into the future, but sometimes do you feel like events that are happening today are shaping your future?  Even though you don't know where you are going to end up, do you sometimes feel like you are on a path to somewhere special?

I always said Poodle on a Noodle was the first of 3 books.  I didn't know when I would write them or what they could possibly be about.  Many people gave me suggestions and I actually took pictures thinking I would use them in future books.  I honestly didn't believe I would write books in what people suggested, but I did take photos for future books.

As I said before, pay attention to what is going on in your world.

In the 4 months since I quit my job to market Poodle on a Noodle I've actually written 3 more books!
If you're keeping track, that means 4 books total.  In 4 months!  YIKES!
Plus, having left my job to market means I needed a new job after having taken the summer off.  Guess what?  Now I have a new job, which I didn't even have to apply for!
I didn't have to send my resume out 100 times and I didn't have to spend hours on the computer going through help wanted ads!

It all happened as a result of circumstance.  It all started 1 year ago when my dog woke up one morning and couldn't walk.  Who would've thought that incident would result in me having written 3 more books and having a job that I absolutely love!

We just never know what will come of our situation. Pay attention, be open to the options put before you, they may be gifts - you need to untie the bow, lift the cover, and look inside!!!

You never know...

Dear Readers,
Here are my thoughts for today:

Think back on the people who came into your lives and then left.  Some were here for a reason, some for a season.  Maybe they helped you through something, maybe you helped them through something.  Maybe you know it was happening, maybe you didn't.  But I assure you, there was a reason you met those people.

I had people enter my life and they are gone now and I truly miss them. The person I am now would be better equipped to handle the 'relationship'. I wish the person I am now could meet them all over again.  It's all about timing they say!

Now I have people in my life who I am trying to help, - not sure how much progress I'm making tho-and I also have people in my life who are helping me.  I can see it clearly, I see the reasons we are here together and I am grateful to be able to help someone, and humbled by the help I am getting from my friends.

Pay attention to your world.  Something is happening, even if it is just a 'rest' period.  Your life may be quiet now, but there is a reason for that too.  We need time to recharge our batteries, we need time to reflect and be grateful. This puts us in a position to be ready for our next step.

Our next step may be to help someone.  You may not get anything out of the relationship, but you may be changing the other person's world.  It may not happen before your eyes.  The affect you have on them may not be revealed to you, it may be evidenced long after you're gone.

Do your best to listen and to give, and to enjoy the people in your life now.  They are there for a reason and you may be changing their life in a long lasting positive way that will trickle into all areas, and affect everyone they meet since knowing you!

Pearl

If you’ve been tuning in here recently, you know I’m performing research for my upcoming Homeless Pets Heroes book.  Today was another research day, but it was far from ordinary.  As the George Strait song says “I saw God today."

I was sent to interview a Dad, Mom, and their delightful children who rescued a beautiful, gentle, and loving shelter dog; a boxer mix named Pearl. Immediately upon entering their home I sensed a busy household full of fun, laughter, hard work, and although this is a blended family, a genuine love for each other. I knew a special story was about to be revealed to me, and I couldn't wait to hear it.

We’ve all had experiences where things don’t go the way we planned, and in the end, things turn out much better than expected…That’s what happened for this family who rescued Pearl.

Pearl was passed up for adoption several times due to heartworms, and her time in the shelter was nearly up.  Mom pretty much met Pearl by chance because she had to pass Pearl’s kennel to get to the dog she actually wanted to see.  Mom spent time with both dogs, but was easily won over by Pearl’s enthusiasm, sweetness, and wet sloppy dog kisses. 

Heartworms are easy to prevent, but difficult and costly to cure, but this family was undaunted.  They adopted Pearl regardless, and gave her the medical care, love, kindness, and food she had been deprived of during the previous 2 years of her life. Heartworms were the least of Pearl’s problems.  While being treated, a tumor was discovered, necessitating the removal of her front leg.  After much research and many sleepless nights, during a family meeting it was decided to go ahead with the surgery, and hope everything turns out OK.

OK is an understatement. A few months have passed now, and Pearl is better than ever.  She is a very important part of the family, she is loved very much, and gives much love in return.  Vaughn says, “She always licks you and gives good kisses.”  Evan likes to snuggle with her and pet her soft ears and chin, saying “She’s a good pillow when she sleeps with you.”

Pearl can still do everything she did before he had the surgery.  Talia says, “My favorite thing is playing tug of war with her, with her bones and ropes.”   Gavin told me “She likes to run outside and chase me.”

Obviously I didn’t know this family prior to today, but it was quite evident Pearl has made a great impression on them.  Through her trials she has provided the family with several lessons.  Mom and Dad told me she taught them "to remember how uncertain life is, and to live each day to the fullest."  When I asked the kids what Pearl taught them, they said something that all of us should remember:  “Even if something is wrong with someone, don’t give up, you should help them.” 

Before I left, the family posed for photos.  In the lens of my camera I saw 6 happy, smiling faces, and one grinning dog - who clearly belonged to each other, yet came together by chance - and stayed together through love.  In the lens of my camera I saw God today.

Room Without a Roof

Ok, so you are not a Monday person.
You are not where you want to be in life.
You're tired of being alone.
You want a new job.
You are miserable, everyone else is better off than you are.
The world is going down the tubes quickly and there's nothing we can do to stop it.
You are tired of everyone telling you to be grateful for what you have, inviting you to church, or telling you it's time to see the doctor.

So you don't want to put in the effort pray or find something to be grateful for...But there is something that will make you tap your toes and that's a mighty fine place to start.

342,975,173 people have viewed this video, join them and see what it's all about.

Best 4 minutes you will spend today.

You have my word on it  :)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y6Sxv-sUYtM&feature=kp

Potatoes with Legs

Dear Readers,

I'm in the research process for book #3.  What a humbling experience! Book #3 (a children's book) is the result of working with Dr. Good, and it focuses on his Homeless Pet Clubs.  (See June 25 - The Very Good Doctor, Dr. Good)

In doing my research for all 3 books I was forced to take my blinders off.  I was forced to go where I didn't really want to go, and look closely at what I didn't want to see.  I'm the gal who changes the channel the minute I hear Sarah McLachlan start singing; I cannot bear to look at the injured and abused animals.
However, this book must be written from both my head and my heart, so I put my big girl panties on, grabbed a box of tissues and headed out to pet stores, kennels, humane societies, clinics and shelters.

Yesterday was "bunny" day, dedicated to learning all I can about these soft, fuzzy little gems. I didn't need to go far.  The Georgia House Rabbit Society is located within 2 miles of my house.  GHRS is the first and only rabbit specific shelter in the SE and only one of a handful in the country...this place is so cool!

Every bunny is welcome there and the place was hopping with dedicated volunteers caring for these helpless little ones. Jennifer spent quite a bit of time with me, passionately providing me with a much needed and appreciated  'Rabbits for Dummies" class.  In a nutshell:
Rabbits are considered exotic animals, but owning a rabbit is alot like a cat or dog in that a rabbit is a 10 year commitment. They are a very intelligent and social.  They need attention, mental stimulation, toys, exercise, environmental activity, and interaction with people, other rabbits, and other household companion animals.

Sadly, although rabbits are the 3rd most popular pet, many rabbit owners have not educated themselves to insure responsible pet ownership and care, so they give up on him.  The rabbit may end up in a shelter,where he may have only 2-3 days to get adopted before being euthanized.

This is where GHRS' mission comes into play.  Their mission is to rescue, rehabilitate and re-home abused, abandoned and neglected domestic house rabbits.  They spay and neuter, foster and find them great homes. Best of all, they educate the public on the care of domestic house rabbits.  This volunteer based, nonprofit, rabbit rescue center was formed in 1996 and has rescued over 3000 domesticated rabbits in need; all made possible by volunteers and donations.

They also board rabbits, and conduct outreach to assist humane societies and owners through publications, phone consultation, and classes.   They have a Hop Shop with toys and supplies for these cutie-pies.

They are always available to help if you find a house rabbit out in the wild.  These little ones really need your help - they can't survive out there alone.  You can easily spot a house because they look like potatoes with legs as opposed to the longer, leaner, rabbits who live on their own in the wild.

This is where is gets really good - Animal House, a reality concept show is going to give the Rabbit Center a much needed makeover, including remodel, expansion and other perks.  Talk about shining a national spotlight on the rabbits and the center's efforts toward rescue and education!

Having said all of the above, the most heartwarming thing for me, was seeing how many young teens and young adults were there donating their time, money, and effort on summer vacation.  They were cleaning cages, caring for rabbits,and interacting with them. I was fortunate to speak with one young man, and although he wants to be a professional lacrosse player not a vet, he was right there in the middle of it, knowledgeable, dedicated, and having fun. Not one kid was on the phone, complaining to go home, or wait for it... texting!

Please visit www.houserabbitga.com to learn more, and be sure to check out www.animalhouse.tv to learn when our local center will be featured.  Filming starts in October.  See you then!
PS. Jennifer is a volunteer coordinator, contact the center at 678-653-7175 to learn how you can help.

Now go give someone a hug,
Laura

Ed Christiansen, photographer, does a beautiful job of showcasing the personality of Peanut (pictured below) and others up for adoption.   See them all at  www.houserabbitga.com  Thanks Ed!

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Oh noooooo!!!

Dear Readers,

I'm sitting here trying to think of what to write and I find myself yelling at the TV that I'm watching while I'm on the internet.  I've got alot of passion going right now so I guess I should write about it.

Sad to say I'm watching the Bachelorette.  I should be studying Spanish or reading the Bible.  But no, it's Monday and I'm spending 2 hours on this nonsense. I mean really!

How do these people think they are in Love?  A few hours spent on a yacht that someone else paid for, or expensive trips around the world in 5 star hotels that these people will never afford, is not Love, and why do these people not get it?

I freak out every time they talk about their Relationship.  Just crazymaking!  A few hours spent together does NOT a Relationship make!

Good news is, at the end, Andi went to IA where the farmer lives and freaked out.  Where will I work?  What will I do?  Farmer told her she could be.... a wait for it --- housewife.  Sorry Andi, I think you are beautiful, sincere and appear to be a real Sweetheart, but honestly, you had that coming.

You NEVER should've let Brian go.  He LOVED you!  Hopefully he has already found the love of his life.  I really wish him well.  I'll watch the after the Bachelorette show just to see how he's doing. :)

Sad to say, I'll be watching hometowns, and most likely yelling at the TV.  Hopefully though, I will make better use of those 2 hours next week, but most likely I just won't be able to help myself again.

But then again, I just got a brainy idea and I Googled bachelorette spoilers.  I'm good with the guy she chose, so now I don't have to watch anymore.  Yippee!  Whew!

Doggie Selfie!

Dear Readers,
Today is June 27, Sunglasses day.
I could write about how important sunglasses are with regard to eye health, and I could educate you on UV rays and UV ratings on sunglasses and why all that stuff is important.  If you are old enough to be reading my blog you are old enough to know all this stuff already.  If not, you may want to play on Google for a little while and learn something new today.

Instead, being Friday, and for some of you it's been a long week.  So Sunday, June 29 is Camera day.  In honor of Camera day, I thought I'd share the photo below, from Baisden Live.  Hopefully it will lighten up your Friday, and get your weekend off to a laughing start.

Be kind to each other,
Laura

The Very Good Doctor, Dr. Good

If you have a love for animals, especially a soft spot for the injured and abused, you may want to check out www.homelesspetclubs.org.  I'm working with Dr.Michael Good on a project revolving around Homeless Pet Clubs and everyone involved is very excited about it.  It's still in the oven, not quite fully cooked yet, but we will let you know when dinner is on the table.

Homeless Pet Clubs are free, free, free.  What you do is sponsor an animal who is held at a shelter.  To sponsor an animal means to promote the animal in an effort to find it a forever home.  You promote the animal by simply telling it's story-being it's voice.  The shelter agrees not to put a sponsored animal down until it gets adopted.

Scouts, schools, business, military and communities all across the US have formed clubs and they are having fun and learning valuable life lessons and skills while saving the lives of many amazing animals who would otherwise be put down.

These clubs are great educational tools: They provide opportunities to develop skills in leadership, communication, marketing, advocacy and teamwork.  Club activities develop character and teachers report that from engaging in the clubs projects, meetings, and activities, students experience an increased sense of responsibility, achievement, and community involvement. 

Homeless Pet Clubs is an entity branching off of Homeless Pets Foundation.  Check out www.homelesspets.com to learn more about the foundation and all their rescue efforts through Town & Country Veterinary Clinic and the Underhound Railroad.

In perusing these websites you will quickly find Dr. Good is a caring, intelligent, hardworking man, who has dedicated his entire career to helping rescued animals and those who rescue them.  His team consists of an amazing group of employees, clients, and friends who's love for these animals shows in their hard work and commitment. I have worked side by side with these volunteers and am humbled by their dedication.

  

Please take a moment to visit the Homeless Pet websites, and don't snack too much, dinner will be ready soon, and I promise you will like it!

MePesky Miss Maxine's words of wisdom

Today I was looking for something informative to share and I came upon this:

MePesky Miss Maxine brings us today's message -

Words of Wisdom from a dog:

If you stare at someone long enough, eventually you will get what you want

Don't go out without ID

Be direct with people, let them know exactly how you feel

Be aware of when to hold your tongue and when to use it

Leave room in your schedule for a good nap

Always give people a good greeting - a cold nose in the crotch is always effective

When you do something wrong always take responsibility for it - (as soon as you're dragged out from under the bed)

If it's not wet and sloppy it's not a real kiss

We can't help it!

I know a few people who are going through personal issues.  Because I am their friend I try my best to help by offering support.  Although I try to be a good listener, I'm one of those people who when faced with a problem try to solve it.  I'm one of those people who give unsolicited advice in an effort to make it all better, or to nip it in the bud before it gets worse, or even as a preventative measure.  Please know that when people like me offer this unsolicited help it's because we really care about you, and honestly, we can't help but try to help!  Help is always given with the best of intentions, we mean well, we really do!

Oftentimes the help I offer is a suggestion of gratitude. There are a bazillion quotes on gratitude.  The one I chose for today is this:

As I stated, there are a bazillion quotes I could have chosen, but this one works well for today because it not only pertains to Gratitude, but I believe it crosses the line into other areas and aspects in our lives.  Hopefully someone really needed to see this today, and it helped them.  Maybe someone will file it away for future use.

Maybe not...but in any case, I just couldn't help but write this blog today.  As I said, I'm one of THOSE people!

There you have it,

Hug someone for me,

Laura

Kevin Costner & Jeopardy

Not long ago I was in Nashville, and a small crowd had gathered outside the back door of the Ryman.  They told me Kevin Costner was there with his band.  I could hear singing, and honestly, was thinking, "Geez, I hope he doesn't quit his daytime job!"

Anywho, when KC exited the theater I was able to get him to pose with me.  I never did get a photo with him even though he was patient during what felt like 10 minutes while my friend tried to get the camera to work.

Now, you may or may not think he is a good actor, but you must admit, he's had a pretty long acting career, and he has made a several blockbusters to offset a flop or two.
I happen to like him, and I like the fact that he keeps a low profile.  I don't know much about him because he isn't part of my entertainment while I'm line at the supermarket. Yes, I have no shame, my inquiring mind wants to know!

Anywho, while standing arm in arm with him, I believe I blurted out, "I love your movies!" It is by grace, and by grace alone that he didn't say something like, "Thank you, which is your favorite?"  In the comfort of my living room I can rattle off at least 10 of his movies in less than 10 seconds.  Standing with him, I couldn't name one of his movies if my life depended on it.  Unfortunately, this is how my brain works.

Oftentimes, I find myself on the computer at 6:30 pm and I turn on Jeopardy "America's Favorite Quiz Show" while I work.  This is my attempt to better myself, but instead of learning something I find myself focusing on how in awe I am of these people.  How do they retain all that information, and better yet, how are they able to access the stored information so quickly?  I am amazed  with the speed in which their brains work under pressure!  I am so proud of myself when I actually get an answer correct, especially when I beat the contestants.  But of course it is usually something like, "she was married and divorced from Prince Charles, she was known as the People's Princess, and if still alive she would be grandmum to baby George" as opposed to a question more in line with "William Sullivan retired from the Foreign Service in 1979, he was the last U.S. Ambassador to this country."

So tonight I am once again working and watching Jeopardy.  BTW, did you know in the 1950's the general public was getting  tired of game shows, making accusations about cheating against producers.  Popularity of game shows was waning and Merv Griffin was losing money.  While brainstorming with his wife on a plane, she suggested he provide the answers and have the contestants provide the questions.  The rest is history...

Thanks for listening! Be kind to each other, 

Laura

PS. Princess Diana and Iran

What goes around comes around

Being on this earth for 1/2 a century, (YIKES!) I've learned everything in life is cyclical.  We've all heard forms of this quote, "If you don't like the weather, wait a few minutes, it'll change." Although many people apply it to the area they live in, this quote has been credited to Mark Twain in reference to New England.

Eggs - Growing up they were good for me, then they told me no, the yolks are high in cholesterol and can lead to heart attack or stroke.  New research shows that eating whole eggs increases HDL - the heart-protective "good" cholesterol. Plus there are several nutrients specific to the egg yolk that help promote overall health.  Just Google - Heath Benefits of Eggs to learn more.

Potatoes - The potato is a starchy tuberous crop.  The word "potato" may refer to the plant itself or the edible tuber.  The name "spud" for a small potato comes from the digging of soil prior to the planting of potatoes.   They are filling, moderate in calories, and non-fattening.  They are nutrient-dense, their fiber keeps you regular and helps lower cholesterol.  Phytochemicals in potatoes appear to help lower blood pressure.  Potatoes which were once taboo are now considered a super food for weight loss!

The stock market goes up and down, the value of my house dropped and is now coming back around, and the Earth tilts toward the sun, then away from the sun. It is now is starting to tilt back toward the sun again, meaning summer was gone but it is now coming back - YIPPEE! (well, I think so anyway!)
We put away our summer clothes and  donned our cold weather clothes and now we pack them back up and bring out our summer clothes until it is time to bring out the cold weather clothes again.

This winter I was working at a job that was literally sucking the life out of me.  I quit exercising, I ate way too many onion rings and donuts, I felt crappy, couldn't sleep, had no energy, couldn't focus, lost all motivation to do better, and I didn't even care.  However, my beach trip, just weeks away is all the incentive I needed!

Trust me, once you find your motivation and force yourself to make the first step everything else will come around too.  Once you start exercising, you will eat better as to not undo your efforts.  When you eat better, you feel better. When you feel better your attitude is uplifted.  With a good outlook everything in your life is better and when you are happier you sleep better.  When you sleep better you have more energy to exercise, and the circle continues.  I promise!  PS. Don't forget, even if you are trying to lose weight you can still enjoy your eggs and potatoes!

There you have it,
Go give someone a hug.

Go YOU!

When I was going through my cancer experience I just kept thinking how hard this must be for a child to go through, or perhaps worse, to be the parent standing by without a cure.  In my journey to help children diagnosed with life threatening diseases I have met - in person and through social media - parents and families who are faced with extremely tough circumstances.  I am involved with the parents who are the major caregivers of these children who are fighting for dear life.  At another time we will discuss these amazing kids, but at this time I am focusing on their incredible mothers, as they are the ones I mainly interact with.

These women are just like you and me, with dreams and hopes for themselves and their children.  They are pulled in so many directions trying to cover all bases, giving time and energy everywhere: to their diagnosed child, their healthy children, their husbands, their home, their jobs, their aging parents,  their siblings, their friends, doctors, hospitals, insurance, (think of all the red tape involved!) plus, they need time for themselves to recharge their batteries. Can you imagine a day in their life?

These moms are spread out all over the country and use social media groups.  The ones I am involved in are initiated and monitored by those reaching out to help others even while in the midst of chaos themselves!   The groups may be lifesavers, giving the caregivers a safe place to land.  They connect to vent, to ask for guidance, to ask for prayers, and even to offer each other support.  I see these women run out of gas, break down and cry, and then guess what?  They feel badly for letting themselves get down!  REALLY?  Dear Ladies, Give Yourself a Break, and I don't mean a break as in a Kit Kat bar!  Allow yourself to ask for help, allow yourself to take help.  When I was sick I could actually feel God's hand working in my life though the people and experiences that came to me.  Be open to others, they may have been SENT TO YOU from above!

Here's to YOU! You are incredibly strong! I wish you could see just how tough, courageous and amazing YOU really are!  YOU are a huge INSPIRATION for all of us!  We all get overwhelmed and many of us couldn't walk a mile in your shoes, yet look how far you've come! May we learn from your example.

May we be more grateful for all the good we experience; may we be a little kinder, softer, have a tad more patience, and may we all remember to pray for those in need, those who are hurting, those who feel lost, those who lost hope.  May we remember to pray for you, your families, and your children.  Keep up the good work!  GO YOU!!

Pink is everywhere but gray matters!

As you know we have national appreciation/observance days and months.  Everything is honored from jelly beans (4/22) to military spouses, (upcoming on 5/9 - stay tuned).

Pink is associated with breast cancer and it is shows up everywhere from football to spatulas.

Lance Armstrong's yellow wristbands were worn by millions- Thank you!  The list goes on...

The color gray is associated with brain tumors, and May is Brain Tumor Awareness Month.  Here in Atlanta we have one of the first non-profit organizations in the US to focus on pediatric brain tumor disease.  Please think twice when you see the color gray - Gray Matters!  When you see gray, please know there are many who are affected by this disease, children, parents, and families.  .

By now you know that I've have my own experience with cancer, but I went through this as an adult.  Trust me, my life with never be the same, but I'm still here!   I belong to several wonderful groups and I am amazed everyday by the faith and strength these children and parents have.  It is extremely humbling, and they need our help. Please LIKE the PoodleonaNoodle facebook page to help bring exposure to the book, as all donations for May will go to the Brain Tumor Foundation for Children.  www.braintumorkids.org

Be grateful for everyday, be kind to each other, and remember - Gray Matters!

Just Listen!

At times do you find yourself at one of life's intersections not knowing which way to turn?
Has someone unknowingly said something and you hear the comment specifically as an answer to the decision you are trying to make, only to have someone else say the complete opposite?

Do you wonder if certain people enter your life at certain times as a direct answer to your prayers?  But then someone entirely new comes along to steer you in the opposite direction?

To buy or pass, to sell or keep, to go or stay, to talk or keep quiet, which one to buy, which one to keep, which way to go?  We all have situations that come up from time to time and the answer is always to be still and listen.  Listen to your gut, listen to the small voice inside, listen for God's direction.

How many times have you thought to yourself, wow, if only I followed my instinct, if only I had listened, I KNEW better, why didn't I listen to my instinct?.. Tell me, you do honestly believe it all comes down to listening to your gut, and you usually find your gut was right, and more often than not you wish you had listened to it right?  But, what if....

What if you have a tummy ache and your gut is grumbling?  What if one minute you hear quiet bubbling, and soon after you hear rumblings?  One minute your gut is telling you to go one way, and then it starts telling you to go in the opposite direction!  Have you come to a certain conclusion and felt good about it but shortly thereafter your tummy starts to do flip flops and you are certain you made the wrong decision?

This has happened to everyone, and yes, the correct thing to do is to listen to your gut.  So now that I am standing in my intersection, I will be taking some Tums, saying lots of prayers, and hoping I make the correct decision.  Wish me luck!

You've seen the commercial, say it with me...Tum, Tum, Tum, Tum, Tuuummmsss!

Nuts to you!

Today is National Kindergarten Day - May the Heavens shine brightly on ALL teachers!
Also of importance to all those nutty chocolate lovers, it is also National Chocolate Covered Cashew day!

These little gems do NOT last long around Casey's mama!
The cashew is actually a tree from the tree family, "Anacardiaceae".  It's English name actually comes from the Portuguese name for the fruit of the tree "caju".  This tree is originally natural to Brazil but now it is widely grown in tropical climates for it's cashew fruit.

Cashews are often eaten lightly salted, sugared, or covered in - you guessed it - chocolate.  (The more cocoa content the better I say!)

Please be advised, the shell of the cashew nut is toxic, which is why you only see shelled cashews.  If you go island hopping and come upon a cashew tree, please don't eat the shell!

There you have it!
Be kind to each other!
Laura

Bibles and Bunnies

We did some research for you, and took this tidbit from Matt Soniac of Mental_Floss:

There is no mention of the Easter Bunny in the bible, but if you go way back the Easter Bunny starts to make a little sense. Spring is the season of rebirth and renewal.  Plants return to life after winter dormancy and many animals mate and procreate.  Many pagan cultures held spring festivals to celebrate the renewal of life and promote fertility.  One of these festivals was in honor of Eostre or Eastre, the goddess of dawn, spring and fertility near and dear to the hearts of the pagans in Northern Europe. Eostre was closely linked to the hare and the egg, both symbols of fertility.

As Christianity spread, it was common for missionaries to practice some good salesmanship by placing pagan ideas in rituals within the context of the Christian faith and turning pagan festivals into Christian holidays (e.g.Christmas). The Eostre festival occurred around the same time as the Christian's celebration of Christ's resurrection, so the two celebrations became one, and with the kind of blending that was going on among the cultures, it would seem only natural that the pagans would bring the hare and egg images with them into their new faith (the hare later became the more common rabbit).

There you have it!

Be kind to each other,
Laura

Young and Old

Found this first thing this morning, a good way to start the day.
 - Even if I didn't get to post it until noon!- Never too late!

Older, Wiser, and Very, Very Tired

I thought as I got older I would be wiser.  In many cases, I am, and I wish the person I am now could go back and redo what the younger me messed up!

I'm a Microsoft Office gal through and through.  Word, Excel, PowerPoint, - I've GOT those, really I do!  I can write a Excel formula that will blow you away!

My phone? My computer? - Well, that's another story! It seems I'm falling behind daily.  I feel like I fell out of my little boat and my ankle is caught in the anchor rope. I'm treading water as fast as I can to keep my head above water.  Every time I make it to the surface for a breath of air, I sink under the surface again, only to thrash and kick my way back up for a brief second before a wave pushes me back down.
My book has required me to learn some really cool programs, stuff I'm so glad the computer can do!  The tough part is me telling the computer to do it!

I'm sending a huge heartfelt THANK YOU to every single person who has ever posted a You Tube video, or commented on a post, or answered a question online.  You've been a life preserver in this raging storm, and trust me, I'm clinging on for dear life!  Hopefully I'll get the hang of this soon, the waves will calm down and I can swim to shore and plant my feet on solid ground -at least until they come out with the next new and improved version.  I hear a storm rolling in from the distance already!

Take a look at the updated website, and PLEASE send your comments. I started it at 8am and finished it at 4am.   Going to bed now!  Wait, first I think I need to eat something, or pee, or brush my teeth..ZZZZZZZZ

Background magic!

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Let's start over, from the Beginning

Guess I was doing this blogging thing all wrong!  It's hard to keep up with all this social media/technology so what did I know?

At a writer's conference this weekend in Blue Ridge, Ga I was instructed to blog so you could get to know me, my values, etc.  So, in following direction, I'm starting with WHY I'm blogging.  This will give you an good idea of where I am at 53 years old.  I'll  post a bit every week.  You may find my posts entertaining, or that I'm a complete wack-a-do (my favorite word of the day).  Hopefully the former, but thanks for sticking around long enough to figure it out!

You can read about Casey and my book in the "About Me" section over to the right, but here's the back story.

I was donating more of a percentage of sales than my book sales were actually bringing in, so I felt the need to ramp up exposure to my book.  In all honestly, I was working really hard at a job I hated, and I figured if I could work as hard on my book as I do on my job, something is bound to happen.  So, I left my job (paycheck- YIKES!) and I'm just taking some time out of the workforce to follow what is becoming a strong, and time consuming passion of mine.

I'm supposed to write how I feel about this - To begin with, I'm working MUCH harder than I ever did at any job, and much longer hours.  No such thing as a lunch hour here!  No clock watching either, I'm on this dang computer day and night.  FB does so much, LinkedIn does so much, it's tough to learn all the ins and outs, I'm just getting the hang of email! Am I scared, no, I'm doing this by FAITH.  Something GREAT will come of this either for my book, or I the path I'm on will end up at the perfect career that I enjoy.  I do get hungry from time to time, I'm open for breakfast, lunch. or dinner, just let me know where to be and when :).

Getting back to blogging - My goal in blogging is to connect with those touched by cancer, so I can help in any way I can.  I hope this opens the door to communication, and brings exposure to the book.  Basically, I hope this is a way for you to help me, help  you.

Thanks for listening, be safe out there.

Why Oh WHY?

Inquiring Mama's want to know...

Why did God create fleas?

Why do little dogs carry their food onto my carpet before they eat it?

Why do dogs take so long to find the perfect spot to poop?  Why is it, the colder it is outside or the later at night the longer they take?

Why does my little Casey, with a bladder the size of a peanut, have to pee on every single twig, pole, post, & tree he finds when we are on an hour walk?

Why does my 10 pound  poodle think he's entitled to take up 1/2 the width of a king size bed?

Why does my little dog bark at everyone walking past the house, but when someone comes through the door he ignores them?

Oh, well, no matter who, what, where, why, or when, we still love them!

Casey's Top Ten

10 Interesting Facts about Casey James Parker

• 1. Casey lived in Alabama as a show dog before moving to Georgia to live with   Laura
• 2. Casey's show name was Cash.  His mama calls him Casey, Case and Pooda
• 3. Casey's favorite word is 'bye-bye'.  He loves to go to the farm and run and play
• 4. Casey's favorite food is chicken, or maybe cheese, or maybe fish - he loves them all!
• 5. Casey's favorite toy is Floppy, a soft, blue, chew toy
• 6. Casey's birthday is Valentine's day, he is 6 years old
• 7. Casey likes to lay on top of the back of the couch, not in his bed
• 8. Casey prances up stairs, he doesn't walk or run up stairs
• 9. Casey likes to wear his purple and blue sweaters but not his red one
• 10. Casey likes to empty out his toy box and lay his toys out on the floor

Poodle on a Noodle Website