Dr Sherry E Showalter,Author, Speaker, Psycotherapist

Music, Tinsel, Holidays and Hope

noreply@blogger.com (Dr Sherry E Showalter, LSCW, MMsc, BCD,) — Sun, 13 Dec 2015 16:25:00 +0000

"The connections that we discover sometimes defy logic. Logic however, is based primarily on linear human laws. In the matter of the divine, logical and linear thinking does not apply." Dave Roberts

I had a conversation this morning with a kind, gentle man; the father of Jeannine... "gone too soon". He filled my heart once again as we spoke briefly of the Compassionate Friends world wide candle lighting, he way up in NY... sharing the inspiration once again felt there in his community. The connection that is strong with the relationship now differently with his beloved daughter, the faith and spiritual connection that continues to build and grow feeding his love and his soul. A kind, gentle man he is, one that touches my heart.

Here in this time of the holidays, compassion kindness, music, tinsel and lights that color the darkness... Grief and hope seem to be strange bedfellows. The light is there within each of us only to be stirred from embers at times it seems. Music for the soul, feet to be moved into calls to action for peace, for purpose for kindness no matter the struggle, the battle, the difficulty. There is stress and joys mixed together at times clouding the wonder and magic of the season.

Time seems to go by so quickly, those moments that once were, now often etched in real or perceived memories heightened by song, by ornaments or hopes. Snow covering the lands often remind others of times that were softer in so many ways, of memories that evoke a smile or laughter perhaps even a tear or twenty.

The hustle and bustle is on ... trees being picked with such care, or brought out from storage and puffed up as decorations are placed here there and everywhere.

Folks pausing as they exchange greetings wondering if the right greeting is the one they want to say... it seems more complicated these days.

Just for the moment, just for the now of it, it may be good to just go with what feels right, what feeds the soul in good ways. To feed the right wolf and nourish the soul.

It may be a great time to remember Dave's quote that started this blog today; to write it down and carry it in your pocket, put it on a post it note and refer to it often.
It is the time to remember that YOU defy logic and linear thinking often... when moving into and through the holidays; when walking through the grief or the music that moves you. The would ofs should ofs could ofs that seem to visit during the dark months of the year.

When we bear witness, when we care, when we get tied up in tinsel... it is easy to get wrapped up in the thoughts, the rational thoughts of feelings, emotions, and those of others. Remember YOU, remember to take best care of you, as you walk YOUR walk... dance your dance with the music that only you can hear, feel... It is unique to only you, in your own light, your own way, your own path.

One way or the other, the holidays are here, the joy and cheer are upon us... The Elf on the shelf is being seen doing all sorts of things and those spirits of loved ones no longer with us will be surrounding us; if we are open to receive them...

May your heart be open for hope, happiness, get joy and kindness in the days ahead.

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

Here's to hoping that you don't get your tinsel self tangled in emotions or traffic as you run from here to there along the way... May the light within you find its way to shine through the hard times, the difficult times, the missing times, those "hard candy Christmas times" as you find your way and the light of others to outshine the dark times. Knowing love never dies, knowing that you are never alone.
Be gentle with yourself, be kind to yourself and to others, knowing each person is walking a path we know nothing about.

Many blessings
Walk in Beauty
DRSES

Those moon effects are still around: Beaver Moon, Frosty Moon, Mourning Moon

noreply@blogger.com (Dr Sherry E Showalter, LSCW, MMsc, BCD,) — Sat, 28 Nov 2015 18:23:00 +0000

Oh boy,

it's the smallest FULL MOON of the year,

it's Beaver Moon, also known as

Mourning Moon

have you been feeling it?

Let's not be fooled by the small part; after all a Full Moon is a FULL MOON

and we all know that things change with the swelling of tides, emotions, and with the magic of fullness!
This was the time to set beaver traps before the swamps froze, to ensure a supply of warm winter furs. Another interpretation suggests that the name Full Beaver Moon comes from the fact that the beavers are now actively preparing for winter. It is sometimes also referred to as the Frosty Moon, maybe as it shines on the glistening, the sparkling over rivers, waters and fields as our temps go lower and lower in now what we call the winters of our season!

It's known as Beaver Moon; so as those Beavers run for their lives to protect their furs from the ones that hunt to get their winter coats, and also prepare themselves for the frost of Frosty Moon it is wise that we prepare to see all sorts of happenings today and through the week as a result of the little moon!

Depending on where you live and where you stay up late, you may just get a glimpse of a subtle penumbra eclipse, during which the moon passes through the light penumbral shadow surrounding the umbra. The umbra is the darkest shadow of the moon cast by the Earth. It just depends on where you are, if you will have the joys of seeing this!

Guess it is safe to say, the joy of the day and this Full Moon,

be glad you are not a beaver is my thoughts!

Just as the bushy tails, they are busy, very busy and yet now must watch out in those swamps for trappers and traps!

Here the squirrels are busy and I could swear they sit in that old Oak tree that puts out more acorns than Carters' Little liver pills on a given day into my yard and driveway just waiting for me.

It is then that I am certain they take aim, and fire those acorns with precision of our Armed Forces and are able to hit me square on the head and shoulders each and every time I walk out the door!

Yet they are gathering, but I cannot imagine where they could put them all, they now waddle when they attempt to walk.

It is the gathering season friends,

so gather your resources wisely,

you are your most precious gift to you and to others, so take best care!

If you live near a swamp, walk gently,

if you live near an Oak tree, you might want to consider a hard hat,

and if you live ...

live beautifully with each breath of wonder and awe

as we are in the little FULLNESS OF THE MOON!

Get your attitude of gratitude and have the best day ever!

Walk in Beauty

DRSES

just Howl cos' you can!

The Holidays are officially here!

noreply@blogger.com (Dr Sherry E Showalter, LSCW, MMsc, BCD,) — Fri, 27 Nov 2015 14:11:00 +0000

Just amazing isn't it? Still a Black Friday where people line up, stay up all night in pursuit of finding whatever it is today that they could of had last week at probably a better price... Today they will grab, get all the stuff they thing they must have, when yesterday they said they had enough and were grateful for what they had. Oh well, some things are just beyond my understanding.
If you are out and about with the crowds of "Black Friday", you are out and about with the crowds of "Black Friday". I sure hope you find all that you are looking for among the crowds while holding on to that feeling of great gratitude and thankfulness that filled the air yesterday! Just maybe you or someone you know were hitting the streets and the bargains held in many of the stores yesterday after a sumptuous meal as the doors were unlocked to those "amazing bargains", folks standing at the ready to run from aisle to aisle with happy faces and intent feet flying. Wonder how many faces are showing those smiles out there today with happy feet?

Oh Thanksgiving... such a day to see the posts on Facebook for the thousands of people talking of such warmth, such joy, such remarkable photographs of family, food, as they expressed such lovely sentiments of "thankfulness". Of course those were scattered with the same political posts and opinions of others while mixed with the daily hatred/judgment of others. Let us not leave out the comical ones of adding prozac to the the Turkey so that everyone in the family could just get along and be good to each other for the day of thanks! Yep, it does a heart, soul and spirit good to read of the thoughts of so many in unison as they give thanks on a day where so many are on the roads, sharing meals, sharing precious moments or pics of the same united traditional meals on different plates!

My question becomes this: IF that can be done once a year on a Thursday in November, why oh why can't it catch on for every day of the year? OK, maybe not turkey with all the trimmings... but the attitude of gratitude should, could and is attainable.

We don't need the "Black Friday" as the follow-up to clean dishes and over filled bellies, the Adrenalin surge as we try to find a parking place, then running like our lives depend on it into the stores with wild eyes to find the "next best thing" on sale as the motivator to keep going. Do we?

What is it that they are wanting so badly anyway? Is it the thrill, the excitement, the t-shirt that says, "I survived Walmart/Mall Black Friday?"

As I sit in the quiet, having coffee, wondering what in the world this world has come to... I am still filled with remarkable gratitude, I am so thankful for each and every person who has walked in and through my life. Some for a reason, many for a lesson... I am still full from that turkey of yesterday, still tickled by the 4 leggeds who stood in turn for their turkey bites and those tongues of theirs savoring each little bite.

Oh how grateful my heart is, how thankful I am for each moment of this precious life.

Wishing you a tongue licking weekend... Hope you have leftovers for that fantastic turkey sandwich later today... nothing like it.

Black Friday... Super Saturday... and of course after a long and wonderful weekend, folks can sit back and click on buttons for the famous
"cyber monday" for even a better deal. There's no crowds to fight, no running from store to store, no Adrenalin surges nor parking places to maneuver... As Olivia would say, "Whatever floats your goat"!

Get your gratitude on and just go with it! It's official now... I myself saw Santa cruise past Macy's in the parade! Everyone can blast the Christmas music, pull out the tinsel, start those decorations and get those happy Elfs out on the shelves. Yes Yes, oh yes, You can say Merry Christmas and and be just as merry as gay as ya want to be! Just be KIND.... and don't believe everything you read.

Walk in beauty,
DRSES

author of:
Down The Hallway
Healing Heartaches
Chronic Pain with John Argent
www.authordrsherryeshowalter.com

Happy Day of Thanks

noreply@blogger.com (Dr Sherry E Showalter, LSCW, MMsc, BCD,) — Thu, 26 Nov 2015 13:32:00 +0000

Wishing everyone a blessed and joyous Thanksgiving! May the blessings surround you, the feelings of gratitude begin your holiday season while carrying you into the new year.

May you feel the attitude of gratitude with each step you take!

It's the day of thanks. May your "thanks" be plentiful and your giving be continual.

On to the Parade... I hope you are smelling great smells as you settle in for a day of joy.

My heart if filled with great gratitude... for all who gather.

Wado!

Walk in beauty
DRSES

June 3... Happy Birthday Granny, those memories

noreply@blogger.com (Dr Sherry E Showalter, LSCW, MMsc, BCD,) — Wed, 03 Jun 2015 11:58:00 +0000

Once again... a day that will always be remembered, memories that will always be held sacred. A heart that still beats in the hearts of all that are still here. Sometimes you just have to wonder what Granny has been up to there on the other side, but at times there is no wondering what she would be thinking...

"a-li-he-li-s-di ~ u-de-ti-yi-s-gv-i"
(Cherokee for Happy Birthday)
"e-ni-si" [Cherokee for] Grandmother

WAdo~

Look for dancing all over the skies

today, might just see something special or hear the Thunder drum

it will be Granny and the spirits

celebrating her special day, our beginnings as well,

and

a day we celebrated her

and

I still do! Oh she loved surprises and celebrations, and parties, good music and a wrapped present, and a card to shake to see if that green stuff fell out of it!

Dance on beloved Granny

in the lights

of the other side.

http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xdjcha_you-ll-alway-be-the-wind-beneath-my_people

"If ever there is tomorrow when we're not together.. there is something you must always remember. you are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think. but the most important thing is, even if we're apart.. i'll always be with you.”
Winnie the Pooh
/*\

Get in that happy place of yours
and block the door
so that no one can get to you or it
haha
Unless invited that is.
best of all things to all of you
Remember
if you don't like something ... change it.
If you cannot change it... change your attitude about it
and your
reaction.
That may be all that is needed to enhance your coping strategy.
then practice practice practice
THE BRAIN THRIVES ON COSISITENCY
so give it consistent messages
and
you will have consistent results
at your command
cos
you command the brain, the one that lives inside your head anyway!
~
Those memories... Love is eternal

Walk In Beauty
DRSES
author of
Healing Heartaches, Stories of Loss and Life
http://www.drsherryeshowalter.com/
order your autographed copies above!

Wishing each of you the best of all things, here, there and just everywhere.
Dr. Sherry

Tarpon Springs, NYC... The Thin Blue Line

noreply@blogger.com (Dr Sherry E Showalter, LSCW, MMsc, BCD,) — Sun, 21 Dec 2014 18:10:00 +0000

May the families, friends, communities find comfort with each other in some way, in some time, in some place. Thank you officers for your service.

My heart is heavy.

The Compassionate Friends will soon light the night sky; Remembering

noreply@blogger.com (Dr Sherry E Showalter, LSCW, MMsc, BCD,) — Mon, 08 Dec 2014 19:13:00 +0000

As December begins, the hustle and bustle of the holidays, many are missing those who have gone before us. Many many are filled with memories when their lives were brighter somehow but now stand in the sea of grief. The holidays can be harsh for those missing loved ones. It is soon to be the time when folks will gather around the globe to remember the children, ALL the children who have died.

The Compassionate Friends will once again bring together what is perhaps the largest gathering of folks to light the candles in remembrance of those children, ALL children, all ages, all causes who are "gone too soon".

Worldwide Candle Lighting

People will gather, in large and small groups around our globe in fellowship. Some for the first time, in shock, in numbness, with such profound new grief.
They will be met by others who have walked grief's path; others will join once again with hugs and that knowing look in their eyes. They have walked a path of pain, of such loss that brings them together in unity.. Some will arrive around 6pm to help set up the room, they will break bread together, some will have music playing as they find their seats, as they look for familiar faces, or see themselves in the faces of others.

At 7pm they will be lighting candles for one hour to honor, to stand, to share the light of those no longer here.
Imagine the sight around our globe and the light of healing.

visualize the memories of the sons, daughters, brothers, sisters, and grandchildren who left too soon. As candles are lit at 7:00 p.m. local time, hundreds of thousands of people join their love and energy as they commemorate and honor the memory of all children gone too soon.

Many who cannot attend, many who have not lost their own child, but love and care deeply, will also be lighting candles in or at their homes. It is powerful, it is healing, it is for the children, and also for those still here. IT is a flame to inspire those holding those candles to embrace the light.

Now believed to be the largest mass candle lighting on the globe, the 17th annual Worldwide Candle Lighting, a gift to the bereavement community from The Compassionate Friends, creates a virtual 24-hour wave of light as it moves from time zone to time zone.

Started in the United States in 1997 as a small internet observance, but has since swelled in numbers as word has spread throughout the world of the remembrance. Hundreds of formal candle lighting events are held and thousands of informal candle lightings are conducted in homes as families gather in quiet remembrance of children who have died, but will never be forgotten.

When we talk about children; we talk about the tiniest to those who have grown. To those who died suddenly, those with rare or common disease, to those who went to bed and never woke up, to human error in medical settings, to those who made bad choices, to those who were victims of accidents, of horrendous happenings.

All were; ALL ARE LOVED beyond measure by someone; parents, siblings, grandparents, communities, friends. All are missed, all are mourned. All are remembered always.

The pain of grief has its way with folks during the holidays' ... it can be sneaky, it can be forceful. It can also be better handled when acknowledged, when faced...

Say their names, honor them.

Ask yourself: "How can I live my life as the legacy now?" "How would my loved one want me to dance now?"

I wish you the strength to heal, the desire to move into your holiday wanting to be more than the emotions that are sometimes so powerful that you find yourself wanting to scream.

Just SCREAM... and notice how your body feels, how you feel. Know that is ok, if that is what you need to do.
Just keep moving, one step then two; working hard to move on with life finding gratitude that you are still here to say their names and to live your life in a way that all are proud of.

Walk in beauty,

Check out where those gatherings are happening.
buckle up your courage, join us!

"So that their lights may always shine" the world will be lighting those candles.

I do believe we are also lighting those candles "so that their light reminds the holder of the candles that they can; if they choose, to shine on, differently... yet brightly within"

Know that you are being thought of around the globe, and that we will light those candles together so that their lights may shine brighter.

DRSES

9/11 d day of reverence and remembrance

noreply@blogger.com (Dr Sherry E Showalter, LSCW, MMsc, BCD,) — Thu, 11 Sep 2014 16:19:00 +0000

Nana's Girl

Safe in Nana's Hat...

After the terror of 9/11

NEW YORK Flight 11

Flight 175

Sure would like to see this Memorial SOMEDAY

Its design, Its meaning, Its everything

is outstanding.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-x-kTEE19BU&feature=related

THE PENTAGON MEMORIAL

Flight 77

10:06 AM Flight 93

SHANKSVILLE PA

[an angel for each crew and passenger]

10 Million short 10 years later for the Memorial

SHANKSVILLE PA

Remembers last night the heroes and passengers left behind

We have watched the images;

they are seared in our memories,

in our hearts

WE WILL NEVER FORGET 9/11

Our lives were forever changed.

We honor
we remember
we stand...

This is

our

Country

USA

the land of the free

because of the brave

and

those who are willing to stand.

Men and women continue

fighting for our freedoms

and

our country; we continue to feel the threat of terrorism. While so

many ran to enlist

after the terrorist attacks of our country

9/11

on that day;

13 years ago; it's difficult to imagine it's been so long. So many answered the call as

first responders. So many of them have been forgotten from those harrowing experiences and continue to approach this day as if it were yesterday. Many would do it again in a fast heartbeat if called.

They left the safety of their homes

and

UNINVITED

they went to The Twin Towers, to The Pentagon, To wherever they were asked;

they absorbed the sights, sounds, smells and horrors that filled the senses and overwhelmed the nervous systems.

So many carry with those memories today;

they took a stand

and

stood together.

As Americans, answering the call to respond for the greater good

to represent in ways that they could

and lend in caring and rendering aide.

They were not invited;

they did not need an invitation.

They placed psychological bandages on in order to continue on 24/7

to do what needed to be done.

They stood in Unity.

Today9/11 has become a day of reverence and remembrance. It is also a day to step outside of self and into a service of kindness and renewed unity as Americans.

We stand

and

Remember

those lives that were lost;

all gone too soon.
I've spent about two hours
transferring the names
of
ALL THE VICTIMS
to this page,
only to find out that it
"overwhelms the system"
here;
just as it overwhelmed our very fabric
so long ago,
our very systems individually and collectively 13 years ago, 9 years ago
and
for many
today as we've watched the repeated footage over and again reliving it all again.
the horror; the memories, the names.
Google can't even take it!
But I tried...

The families and children

left behind; those people now on the other side. All could have been our neighbor, our friend or family of choice had they lived,

and some jumped from the windows
choosing just how they died in those final moments.
BUT now they all watch over their loved ones, and I like to think they are all watching over all of us..
We have some powerful angels ... just two steps away standing with
Homeland Security.

then there are those who were the first responders, those now suffering injuries and/or illnesses from the toxins they endured secondary from answering the call to help and to care.

Around the world many suffered vicarious trauma as they were glued to their televisions watching the horror

or the

United States

attacked by terrorists

and

our country

suffering such traumatic losses.

We watched and we watched

most forgot they could turn their sets off

while others were overwhelmed

and suffered depression, fear, and

ongoing nightmares.

Our country was in harms way.

People began to fly flags on every street; each home had one flying proudly;

folks waved at each other, and gathered

strangers like in the old days!

Speaking with ease to one another

UNITED in our times of uncertainty.

Crisis had brought our country together.

We were as one

in times of such horror;

in times of such severe and palpable pain

although most looked over their shoulders

for quite a long time.

We stayed in close contact,

and

tried to stay near to our homes

(except for the first responders).

Today

we embrace

HOPE

in healing

while always

remembering

9/11

and

knowing

we are only free

as long as

stand

with pride

and

with

commitment

to our lands

our brothers and sisters

for our country

and

compassion in our hope of healing.

May the Creator bless our

men, women, service animals

that are serving our

Nation

and

our

President.

We together are

the

United States of America

this is a day

remembering

9/11

"let's roll"

with our

RED white and BLUE http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WE1W2rH6au4&feature=related

God bless America and the World

and

her people

today

and

always

remember

9/11

may we

embrace

HOPE, KINDNESS, COMPASSION.

the prayer bowl is filling, the prayers are going up: /for:

Our Men and Women, service dogs,

our President and family,

and

for:

ALL THE FAMILIES AND FRIENDS

of the 3,000 who died on

9/11

and those who died trying to save their lives... dance on in the galaxies

knowing that we remember you,

The sage is filling the air, with prayers that

we as a Nation stand strong

that we stand UNITED allowing this day to give us what we need

to begin the compassion and kindness in caring once again for and with each other

in ways that restore our spirit

and feed our souls

reminding us of the kindness to be found in the extension of self to each other.

Go get that flag today, wave it with pride, speak to those on the streets

as you did on that day

13 years ago.

Together we are a great Nation we must stand UNITED in all ways on all days.

THESE COLORS DO NOT RUN

Not even when the Eagle cried...
STAND STRONG FRIENDS

Walk In Beauty

DRSES

Just like Patti says it, remember dear ones,

"I'll Stand by YOU"

Happy Independence Day Land of the Free because of the Brave

noreply@blogger.com (Dr Sherry E Showalter, LSCW, MMsc, BCD,) — Fri, 04 Jul 2014 13:00:00 +0000

It's INDEPENDENCE DAY!!! God Bless America and all who stand on her soil as we celebrate this day and all it stands for ... Let the celebrations begin as folks gather, the grills get fired up, and the joyous noise begins!

Thank you to those who have served, are serving to protect our very freedoms across the world as we slept in our beds last night, awoke with hope in our hearts and now rise to outshine the sun! America... my sweet America

as only Ray Charles can sing it

From my home to yours, we are wishing you a colorful, magical brilliant 4th of July...
Hold off rain, we have fireworks displays across the Nation to see and laughter to hear along with the "ohhh MYYs" .... as the smells of hamburgers and ribs on the grills just tempt the senses....

Gratitude going strong for those serving our country, those who have served and those who have laid it all down while protecting our soils.

Flags flying with HOPE, LOVE, SPIRIT and COMPASSION ~

Land of the free because of the Brave as we celebrate our America.
Be safe out there and take best care of you and each other.

Walk in Beauty,
DRSES

July is here!

noreply@blogger.com (Dr Sherry E Showalter, LSCW, MMsc, BCD,) — Tue, 01 Jul 2014 14:31:00 +0000

Here we are, July of 2014... seems just yesterday it was July 1st of 2013! Time sure does fly whether or not you are having fun it seems! Summer in all her glory, flowers are spectacular, the heat is on across much of the Nation and school is OUT! Great news for those who commute the roads and are often stuck in traffic secondary to buses, lines of cars pulling up and on the sides of the roads... great for those who now are enjoying each and everyday entertaining the kiddies, playing with wild abandon. We are but a few days away from the fireworks that again will light up the night skies and America the Beautiful will be heard as folks stand making joyous noise once again.

Folks will gather, bbq's will be fired up and the beaches will fill with those wanting to make memories across our great Nation. People will try to avoid the news of the latest Supreme Court decisions, the fact that more of our men and women are being deployed to place of war since the beginning of time and are placed in harms way. Maybe for the beginning of July as bags are packed and people are moving through their days, they will try to not think about those who are moving across our borders illegally, or what will be done to rectify it.

Perhaps folks will focus on kindness, on compassion, on being their best selves as move through their days and nights joyfully. Just maybe folks will step out of their comfort zone and into bliss just by shifting their thoughts, attitude, or activities! Be Bold,Be Daring,Be you! Beautiful God Given YOU...

It's a new month, a new time, a new moment to be more ... in thought, action, attitude.

How in the world did it get to be July so soon?

Take a deep breath, exhale slowly, then get dancing shoes on! The music of life is playing and I cannot imagine missing the dance, or the great sights we will be seeing along the way.

Happy Canada Day to all our Canadian friends!

And a most Happy July to all.
Dare to be amazed.

Walk in beauty,
DRSES

The real "Senior Prom" in Pulaski VA

noreply@blogger.com (Dr Sherry E Showalter, LSCW, MMsc, BCD,) — Wed, 25 Jun 2014 10:43:00 +0000

/Dot (volunteer *yes with now blue streak in hair)

and

Angie Loy, Director of Activities

Pulaski Health and Rehab Center

Pulaski, Virginia

There are some things just too good not to let the world know about. This is one of those things... the only thing missing will be photographs of all who were in attendance because of those rules of "privacy" and protection since they have not signed a release to have their beauty seen here! Instead, you have a photo of Aunt/Niece who happen to be Dot/Mom/Cob with swag and her niece, who happens to be filled with passion, purpose and a great love for her work with those living at Pulaski Health and Rehab.

Angie is the Activities Director at the facility for those there; similar to a nursing home situated in the New River Valley of Virginia. She is always coming up with new and creative ideas for her residents for socialization, for things that they can find joy with, or things to get them out of their rooms and into the community area to peak interest and to laugh, live, while enjoying. Oh boy do they love her as well, often wanting her to stay longer, to visit her in her office, or to find the bowl of goodies that sits on her desk while strolling through.

Angie has had a plan in the works of hosting a "prom" a "Senior Prom" for the residents in the works for months! I've watched her posts on Facebook with her requests for prom dresses, bow ties, cummerbunds, jackets for the gents as the time has gotten closer. I have read the comments of others in the community who have rallied to her requests or have suggested she try here or there in her running for larger sizes, for different ideas, as she planned this grand event. From Bridesmaids dresses, to gently used prom dresses, the donations begin to arrive; the decorations being planned, the DJ secured for music. Pulaski Health and Rehab staff getting excited with the possibilities generated by the enthusiasm of Angie Loy, The Activities Director who could already visualize those residents having the time of their lives.

The volunteers were asked to get involved, the running began, the wine and cheeses planned, families informed, and the tension mounted as the 2014 Senior Prom was in the works in a facility for folks who maybe never even attended high school... or folks who had graduated so long ago, they might not have even remembered a prom if there had been such a thing!

Just a creative thought had built momentum to the point that men, women, all were getting enthused about it, the idea of it. I wondered on the music... what would play? Would it be Big Band sounds, country, bee pop of days gone by or the Rat Pack?

I visualized the folks there, some in wheel chairs being rolled into the main room dressed in what would be their finery for the event, glittery and shiny and the joys that might just evoke of "back then" or the many "firsts" and my smile was strong enough to make my face hurt!

I could only imagine it to be a fabulous event.

I listened to Angie's enthusiasm, her passion when talking about the residents, her hope for the day, her nervousness in getting everything "just right". I felt such pride of her commitment to those she provides care for and wished so many understood the role she plays in enhancing the quality of life for those there and in facilities similar for their residents. I had to admit, "Senior Prom" had taken on a new meaning for me.

The best of times were to be had, but oh my goodnesss what a lot of work.

Photographs begin to show up, of those she works with! Smiles and comments began to appear on her page of Facebook saying what an outstanding time was had, how remarkable it was!

The decorations festive, the music great, the residents looking quite beautiful and having a "ball" at the prom! Laughter, smiles and good vibes felt by all that were there, and pictures for families taken to be shared. Staff photos as well, seems everyone wanted a picture with ole' Angie as they congratulated her on a job well done! The guys with their shirts and ties, not missing a beat at the Prom.

Seems that a great time was had by all, even those who couldn't remember why they were there, or now can't recall being there unless prompted. IN that moment, the moment was amazing, the energy shifted with the glitter, the music, the flow of people. It was an event that was unlike any other for those who live there. They were able to dress up, show up, and be a part of something that might have reminded them of a time gone by, a few hours of respite from day to day moments that go from one to the next in sweat pants, or leisure suits.

One woman who is tasked with multiple tasks as so many are in the work place. Meetings about this and that and doing more with less, trying to keep activities fresh while Bingo remains the number one activity around the country, stepped out of the box big time on this one. Angie called in the community for some help, she involved them, got them excited. So much so that the press showed up as well, and the Senior Prom was featured on the front page of the local paper!

The dancing happened, the gowns swished across the floor and the wheel chairs rolled with the music, the wine was poured. The Seniors had their prom, and it was better than good.

So for today; props to Pulaski Health and Rehab Center in Pulaski Virginia and my cuz, Angie Loy, the bombdiggidty Activities Director who "rocked it" with Senior Prom for all the folks that were able to enjoy the efforts put forth for them.

Given the staff/volunteers seemed so happy, we can only imagine the faces of those that were in attendance as they dressed up, ate, drank, and enjoyed each moment.

this story is the way things used to be... how they can be, should be, and thanks to Angie and volunteers how they ARE for those she is honored to provide care to. We are truly at our best when in the service of others, sometimes going outside of the box in ideas to make things happen in wonderful ways.

Involving the community in getting dresses, ties, jackets while letting them know what is happening in a facility peaks enthusiasm, interest, and involvement. It is for the greater good of all. It also lends others to want to do more,"how can we help, can we involve our kids, can we plan a picnic for your residents with music"? The possibilities are endless and the only limitation is the imagination.

A "Senior" Prom... I bet they were all just beautiful. Bravo cuz, Angie Loy... I sure hope your administration recognizes the great treasure they have in you.

Just think, maybe the next activity will include all the residents doing a video led by Angie singing "Happy" with each holding a colored noodle waving it in the air while sitting outside in the sun, led by Angie! A new viral video perhaps, they could just go crazy with it... Just a thought here, as we move into the middle of the week and decide

HAPPY IS WHERE IT'S AT.

visualize .... and get that happy goin' (prom dress optional), now let's DANCE!

Let's all congratulate Angie Loy for a job better than well done and all those who helped make it happen!

'CLAPPING HERE, BRAVO'

Carry on

DRSherry

GET your Sunday Strut ON...

noreply@blogger.com (Dr Sherry E Showalter, LSCW, MMsc, BCD,) — Sun, 22 Jun 2014 13:28:00 +0000

Summertime, Summertime... on a fine Sunday where you can decide no matter your circumstance, no matter you situation, you get to call it... How you walk, run, or "strut" into it. Time to get to strutting into it, with your attitude of great gratitude, of thankfulness as you take each breath, as you are the light that shines from within, during great times, not so great times, and sometimes during the darkest of times.

This is a day made for those who might just have to pull all of their resources out from within to get through this day, finding humor in heartache, finding strength in the sun, and finding that they are more than they ever imagined before right this minute.

It may just be the day that your smile, gives another a reason to smile; a day that you hear the music finer than ever before. A day where the Universal Oneness of Creator reminds you of the greater connection as it all comes together in ways unimagined.

It's a great day to "strut"... WALK WITH YOUR HEAD HIGH, YOUR SHOULDERS BACK, and honor all.
Aho!

Sending up prayers, good thoughts, great vibes to all: the sage is burning, with hope, prayers and human kindness in the air. May you have fun, just "do it"! One love, all begins within and the reach is remarkable... STRUT TODAY...

DLB, Dot/COB/Mom, Angela, Kamryn Elijah, D'Vante, Olivia, Joan, Linda McDonald, Laura, Mitch, Eileen, Mary, Kelley, Joanna, Renie, Jean, K & A, Tony, Dave, Cheri, Matt, Jeanette, Brian, Jack, Thomas, Sabien, Kendra, Matt, Cass, Brenda, Liv, Kristy, Shandy, Bob, Ezra, Jean, Jim, Mike, Dan, Audrey, Anne, Patti R., Pat, Stephen, Matthew, Jane, Walter, Jen, Snoop, Lance Dyer, Dakota, Bev, Erik, Shari Taylor Webster, Stephen Bright and family, Gayle, Chris W., Penni, Suz, Chase, Jaxon, Matthew, Bryan, Corey Richardson (Kokie), Dave, Eric, Paul, Rick, Alexis, Bill, Tom, Bob, Kurt, Dianne, Suzannah,
Elizabeth Gardiner Myers, her beloved sister-in-law and family, little Rylie, Jan, Charlie, Eagan, John D, John S., Kurt, Kendra, Matt, Stoney, Regina, Suz, Corby, TK, Ericka, Louise, Tommy, Joan, Bob, Fluff, Scott, The Korabek/Shram tribe, AnneMary, Shirley, Karen, Lori, Tanya, Kendra, Kurt, Joan, Jack, Tom, Chris, Sabian, Rus, Stan, Greg, Scott, Christian, Mike, Richy, Areila, Penny, Ford, Bob, Frank, Eric, Kurt, Bob, Chases Cows, George, Justan, Phillip, Deion, Hunter, Pop, Ledg, Matthew, Stephen, Pat, Jennifer,

Maya Angelou we will miss you here on this earth... thank you phenomenal woman for all that you are. May we all be better because of all that you were.

ZERO, soar on dear one, we miss you always yet know you are with us in all the familiar places ... Prayers and strength for Alexis and her family, Chelsea, Baby Florenzo, and Sara may the Creator welcome you all home to the Ancestors... Those in Christiansburg VA and surrounding communities for strength and healing, VAAP, Stephen Deirslen and family, Kurt, Ali, Jeremiah, Pop Spring, Joe, Rachel, Matthew, Nick, Leanne, Leslie, Stephen, Gayle, Karen, Janet, Perry, JT, Moses, Little Nicholas, Karen, Ericka, young Peyton, Bill, Shauna, Dixie, Kurt, J&L, John, Alexis, Kassity, Kelsi, Bob, Lauri, Larry, KM, Osh Kosh, DC, Courtney and baby, Choctaw Nation, SODA, Kari, Jamie, Tiffany, Bob, David, The Durant P.D., Windhorse, Hezra and Dan, Pat, Joan, Jane, Mickey, Cynthia, Rubuye, Patches, Charla, Kurt, Lyle, Bear, Sylvia, Heidi, Samatha, Marcus, Brenda McQuire, Jan, Joan, Louise E. Duckwork and her family, friends, Brother Michael Belford, Rev Bev and family,Erin, Bear, Ellie, Andrei, Maggie, ED, Mary, Ari, Kostas, Jean, Rene, Joanie, Stevie, Nat, Matt, Jamie,

For Sandy Hook and those in Newtown CT., for all those who have been touched, shattered and devastated by violence we are with you here and pray for an end to such horrible things happening in our world.

For our warriors, We are fighting alongside you and thinking about you.

Rebecca, Hudson, Peyton, Dottie, Zero, George, Peyton, Billy Ray, Yvonne, Les, Lana, Lanita, Kelly, John, Bill,

~ `~

For:

Erin, Ellie, Andrei, WM, Yvonne Cassie, Mildred, Michele, Evelyn, Kelly, Betsy, The Faulkner Family, Stan, Dan, Christie, Ledge, Rick Paul, Colin G Brady,

NYPD, Guardian Angel Hospice and those there, Lanita, Dana, Leslie, Dottie, Kelly, Molly, Evan, Jeff, Ruby, Kevin, Scott, Dakota, Ruby, Dottie, Todd, John, BK, Clare, Yvonne, Evelyn, Sonny, Trace, Lyle, Michael, Beverly, Shauna, Dixie,

Julia Skinner and her NRV ELITE in Christiansburg VA,thank you for a wonderful year.

Coach Woodka, the Tarpon Springs Basketball team, Coach Carb and family, Cooper, Mark, Marvin, Zaden, Zamerion, Daniel,

Carol, Sandy, Carrie and her family in Aurora,Ali,BK, Carolyn, Karen, Kelly and her family up North,

For those who have asked and we are standing with you in your time of sorrow, angst, difficulties.

Heidi and family, Dianne, Ken, Lori, Cynthia, Scott, Ali Legend, and children, Heather Belle, Carolyn, Rog, Dusty, the 5,000 guardians now standing in the memory of Thomas O'Brien, the family of Trayvon Martin,

For:

Harriet, Sherry Reed, Mary Grace, Shirley, BK, Stephanie, Lorrie, Pop and his family,

Sherry C., Katie and Bill Majestic, Marvin, Layne, Lori, Jim, D, Heidi, Julia, Rolling Thunder, The Patriot Guard, Carol,The Schram/Korabek family, Kyle, Mark, Todd, Yvonne, Harry, Kevin, Jen, Charles, Glenn, "the littleOne", Anne Klein, Monica Graff, Penny, Chris, Joy, Anne, Sara, Jenn, Shirley, AnneMary, Michael, Jeannie,Patti Labelle and family, The Wounded Warrior Brigades, Warren Buffet, Best of health be yours sir, Kyle Jones in TN; a magic maker, a musician and a good man, M Dave Glenn Alley a talented musician who is extending himself in service to others, blessings to you friend,BK, Kevin, Dash, Graham, Suzannah,

Seth Greenberg and family, Eileen D. and family, Steve and family, Anne, A, Sandy, "EI", Kev, Chris,

Lyle Emerson and his family in Buffalo and little Kendra fighting Lymphoblastic Leukemia,

Bernice Etsitty and the life of her son, gone too soon Garrett Joe,Joey, Sam, Tyler, Robbie, Elizabeth, Tommy,

Duke Limongello gone too soon,

and all the children of all colors, all ages, and causes

gone to soon.

Sandy Hook Elementary School

in memory and prayers:

Charlotte Bacon, 2/22/06, female
- Daniel Barden, 9/25/05, male
- Rachel Davino, 7/17/83, female.
- Olivia Engel, 7/18/06, female
- Josephine Gay, 12/11/05, female
- Ana M. Marquez-Greene, 04/04/06, female
- Dylan Hockley, 3/8/06, male
- Dawn Hochsprung, 06/28/65, female
- Madeleine F. Hsu, 7/10/06, female
- Catherine V. Hubbard, 6/08/06, female
- Chase Kowalski, 10/31/05, male
- Jesse Lewis, 6/30/06, male
- James Mattioli , 3/22/06, male
- Grace McDonnell, 12/04/05, female
- Anne Marie Murphy, 07/25/60, female
- Emilie Parker, 5/12/06, female
- Jack Pinto, 5/06/06, male
- Noah Pozner, 11/20/06, male
- Caroline Previdi, 9/07/06, female
- Jessica Rekos, 5/10/06, female
- Avielle Richman, 10/17/06, female
- Lauren Rousseau, 6/1982, female (full date of birth not specified)
- Mary Sherlach, 2/11/56, female
- Victoria Soto, 11/04/85, female
- Benjamin Wheeler, 9/12/06, male
- Allison N. Wyatt, 7/03/06, female

and for

OUR President and his family

of our United States of America,

those who are serving our Nation and their service animals

and all who have served

and their families,those who have fallen and are still missing we honor and thank you,

May the Creator bless you for holding us in your arms to protect our freedoms.

We remember.

Jenn, Bill, Denise, Ashe, Stuart Jr, Barry Gibb, his family, Whitney, the Houston family, the family of our disco queen Donna Summer ,

Andre, Bill, Taft Abras, Mary Labyaks' family , Andrea, Patti, Jamie, Sasha, Kerri, Josh, Kar, Cash, Neil, Lori, Cindi, Tom, Shasta, Bill Simpson and Family, Jenn, Steph, Dana, Kari, Sandy, Marty, Marsha, Wanda, Ellen, Cindee, Peggy, Joyce Cruz, a CANCER survivor working at Southwest Airlines *it was an honor to meet you dear one*, Ike Davis, in New Mexico, an artisan who plays in the mud and creates beautiful tings out there, *http://www.negroartist.com/* what a joy you are to so many of SOUTHWEST, thank you for visiting with me, prayers of continued success and tobacco to your Pueblo uncle! and for Christos Fandaros, Thomas Galvin, John Knudson, Curtis, Susie Langham, Stasia and Billy Hall, Christina Chavez and Rick and Ryan, Pam Meyer, Whitney, Diane Bystista, Susan, Leann Vincent, Roxanne Duran, Carole Poppendeck, Mary Jo H-shortes, Bridget, Robert Tanner Mara Tanner, Yolanda L Acosta, Antonio F. Balderrama, Denise Flowers, Lisa Balance, Sherry Stedman, Rose, Marquette, Acosta, Ortega, The Pueblo Peoples,

All those I was honored to spend time with in

" Choctaw Nation, IN, VA, DC, MD, FL, CT, PA, Ohio, Michigan, South Dakotas, Geisinger Medical Center, Michigan, Oklahoma, Ohio, Solaris Hospice, Evercare, Hospice of the Western Reserve, Gesinger, Guardian Angel Hospice, Crossroads Hospice, New Hope Hospice, Comfort Keepers KS, El Paso, Santa Fe, Albuquerque"

Jeremy, Florence, Cal, Sarch, our friends of Portugal, Mike, AnnMary,Stephanie, Jimmy, Keli, Kasi, Katherine, Julie, Allan, Lynda,LeeAnn, KS Comfort Keepers, Stephen Bright, Linda and staff Melody,Brenda A and children Sarah, David Rachel; Gloria, Pete, Fred, Max, JJ, Barb and Leo Henning, Rick Fechner, Ryan Baurain, Melissa Reid, "Probation Professional pals", Jim Vander May (*who has been working in the Professional field for 45 years in Michigan*, Dale, Herschel, Bonnie, Louise, Holly, Jerry, Faith, Yvette, Happy, Audrey, and Rod Markowski and family, Lynn, Ryan, Jordon, Darryl Markowski, I thank you for your service) Brian Markowski, Shannon Becker, Nick, Reagan, Dr Iris Taylor of Detroit Medical Center,, please take best care of you) Sandy R. Carol, Stephanie, Geri, Chris, Matt, those in Oklahoma City, in Tulsa, In Ft Worth, Dallas, Ike, Isabel, Teresa, Janelle, Patricia, Susan, Karen, Laura in Yuba City CA, The Walter Reed Warrior Transition Brigade, Hope Hospice, Crossroads Hospice and those who care out there working and walking the walk, Perry, Clayton, George, Janet, and all in green! Rick, Calley, Ron, Rebekeh, Brenda, Becca, Audrey, Gabe, Dena, Beth, Lill, Jay Hanson, Jennifer, Beth Jett, Huntsville AL, Sheri, Wendy Reese and family, Sandy, Toby, Edith Vaughn and family,Susan, Greg and Kyle Korabek (Landon Korabek on the other side now), Stephen Bright and family, Walter Littlemoon, Jane, Laura, Mitch, Jenn, Chris, Mary, Taft, Martha Deaver, Morris, Dahlee, Rose Brick, The Baitinger Family, The Yaslowitz Family, The St Petersbug PD, Congresswoman Gabbie and her family, Dahlee in NJ, Judy Kelley, beloved husband and family, Jennifer, (now being watched over by her beloved husband and child), Norma, and Angel eyes Jack, Daniel, Dave, Cindy and Steve, Marty, Jeremy, Dennis, Darrel, Greg, Leroy, Rebekka, Carly, John, Diana, Crystal, Karen, Janet, Callie, Lorie, Laura, Larry, Clive,

2 Wolves and Jinx in SD, (http://www.2wolvescreations.com/)

Kelly and family,Judy W and her 4 sons up there in New England, Cherokee Wick, Benni, Gayle, Jonathan, Great Aunt Effie's family, Marilyn Warren, Ilene, Jen and Brian, Ericka, Shannon, Hannah Sherabow, Pam C. and family, Susan S., Angela A., Nancy W, Sue G, Kelly and family, Susan Brouse, Cindy and Stevie, Kim, Olatz, EVB, Yiva, Mary, Sandra and family, Christina Helen, Dotti B., Susan and Greg, Amy, Becky and Barry Long, Christina, Matt and children, Aaron, Lisa and family, Freda, Linda Katie, Pat D, Tink and Mitch, LITTLE Ben, Jerry, Trish, Barb, Anastasia, Mary, Rylee, Lindsay, Ann, Sarah, Ruth, Johnny, Bobby and the Tucker Family, The Spraker Family,Kenny H, Michelle, Sandy, Addie and family in Canada, Sandy, BraveHeart, Rowena, Chris, Robyn Elizabeth, Jean, Duke,Rowena, Chris, Baby Robyn Elizabeth, Diane Smallze and family, Patti and family, The Korabek Family and friends, The Gasse Family and Friends,

Officer Crawford of St Petersburg, The Kocab Family, baby Lilly Nicole Kocab, The Curtis Family, Tarpon PD, those serving here and there in Uniform... Those now walking The Thin Blue Line, (far to many joining that line recently across our Nation),

Mylee, Mikey and family in DC, Jack M & Janis in OC, Stephen, Stuart Wittel of the US MARINES and his parents Sandy and Stuart, Lavie Coltrane and family, Andrea Gasse and family here and in New England, Ali and family, Randy and Winnie in New Mexico, Jill Wheaton L, Dr Peter in NY, Dr Rev Bev, Irene M, Bernice, Eileen and family, Vicki, Matthew and family, Chris, Lovie, Nancy, Pedro and Our adopted family in BRAZIL, The Windcross Convservacy and those beautiful Spanish Mustangs known as "pocket ponies"... the dolphins , always our most remarkable dolphins!!!

AND for:

Anne, Jim, JADE, Cynthia, Joseph, Cathy Madden, Nathan, and her family., Cindy in NC, Liz, Lee, Molly, Joanie, Jude, COFA, Judi, Ken, Matthew, Nick, Matt, Mark's family and many friends , Pat, Irene, Kevin, Dr D, Deb, Randy, Dr B, Isabelle, Kelsey, Sabrina , Charlie and family, Jean, Julie, Rhonda, Victoria, Mildred, Andi and family, Faith, Denise, Jim, Tom, Joey, Shelby friends and family, Judi, Phylis, Joyce, Gina, Tonya, Beverly and Family, Janeth, Melissa,Virginia, Stacey, Elizabeth, Nita, Gary Siegal, Adrienna, Brian Mawbey, the Boyan Family, Jean R and friend Christy Rider, Victoria and hubbie, Stephen, Gayle, Steph, Chris, Erica, Eileen, John, Mindy, Jack, Susan Werth Becken, her brother Mike and family, Craig James Lightfoot and his family, Kenny, Audrey, Ed Saner, Patty Crowley, Bennie, Gail, Jonathan, Moe, Beverly, Dennis, Peter, Trish, Cynthia, Heidi and her family, Kathy Knights family, Edith Vaughn, Candy, Cynthia, Jenn, Eve, Edith, Jason, Karen, Linda, Joyce, Belinda, Jeanette, Jennifer, Patti, Sandy S, and . ..

(Feel free to let me know if you would like to add your/or a friends name to our prayer bowl.

Walk in beauty
DRSES

Hello Summer Solstice!

noreply@blogger.com (Dr Sherry E Showalter, LSCW, MMsc, BCD,) — Sat, 21 Jun 2014 12:55:00 +0000

Summer Solstice June 21, 2014, the longest day of the year! Hello the official first day of summertime, and the celebrations will begin for so many as we welcome it in. I cannot imagine but some are already complaining about the heat of summer, when it seems like yesterday all we heard was "bring on summer, I am freezing"!

Many will celebrate the light... oh the brightest and longest of light overcoming the darkness. There will be festivals, celebrations, bonfires, and great music. Pagans, non-Pagans, the world is alive in the light of the Summer Solstice! Joyful noise is in store for this day of light...

Folks around the world will celebrate this day, will just be thrilled with this day in a mystical way, in a sacred way, in fun ways as well.

It is a day of great light, love, joy... it is the longest day of the year. Put your "hips in it", enjoy it, reap the blessings that are yours, and have the best of times here on this day, the first day of summer!

May you feel the light within, as the light around you shines brightly... Make some waves, ride the waves, BE THE WAVES as you absorb the light... the light that surrounds you, in all that you are and all that you do, on this the summer solstice of 2014~

And so it is!Many blessings to each and to all!

Happy Summer....

Last one in is a rottenegg....LOL
DRSES

Friday Freestylin, just grin into it

noreply@blogger.com (Dr Sherry E Showalter, LSCW, MMsc, BCD,) — Fri, 20 Jun 2014 14:01:00 +0000

Friday, Friday, it's time to get your week-end started! With an attitude of great gratitude, here we are on the eve of the summer solstice, the official beginning of summer as we move into the weekend. Are you ready for some summer?

I do believe once again that time is just running faster than ever, now meaning that the days are shorter if I am correct, and heaven knows I am not ready for that! Slow down... everyone, time is running too fast as it is.

Do you remember when things seemed kinder, time seemed slower, energy levels seemed higher and the good times lasted longer? Seems that is getting lost with this fast time zooming past. Even with the light lasting longer, time just rushes by faster than a heart beat, leaving us to wonder, "how did the time go so quickly".

Remember when? Do you?

As we move on into a freestyle of Friday, I hope many will realize that worrying, complaining, talking about the same ole same ole' and trying to remember if the story has changed or the results have changed has been worth it since the last time, the last year...

Freestylin' might just be the best way to roll, as we enter into Friday, knowing that our lives are the most precious gift, our steps ours to take, our thoughts and our actions ours to own... the impression and impact we leave on another will live in their hearts long after we walk away...

What we worry about today, will take away from the joys that are sitting right there for our pleasure and enjoyments, and rich moments.

Do you remember when?

We all wanted so badly to grow up... what in the world were we thinkin... that was when time seemed linger, when hangin' out never ended, when it seemed so easy.
I miss back then.
Where bbq's fired up and the music played loud.... folks gathered, or not, but times seemed easier even though things were hard.

When folks seemed kinder, when doors could be unlocked, when street lights were street lights and folks lent a hand no matter what or where. When little kids didn't go missing, where prescription drugs weren't killin folks, and synthetic drugs weren't thought of yet... where Americans stood, and when death happened the community rallied. When a hearse drove by, cars pulled over and stood beside them to demonstrate respect and loss.

Folks have to find their own freestylin' ways to care, to find their joy, their way to balance.

Let is go, let peace in while respecting others again. Find rituals again, hear the music again, listen for laughter and join in again. It's time to take back time, to savor it, to taste it even when it's bittersweet, it's rich, it's alive, it's for those who are alive to be the legacy of all who have gone before them.

Let's go... freestylin' into this weekend of summer like never before.

Move your ass!

DRSherry

Living and Learning

noreply@blogger.com (Dr Sherry E Showalter, LSCW, MMsc, BCD,) — Thu, 19 Jun 2014 14:11:00 +0000

Life and it's many lessons, blessings, heartaches and struggles seem to be a part of a greater plan. An opportunity to live and learn to be stronger, better, to be more, yet also a road to some that find themselves singing the same ole' song, stuck in a rut or finding the comfort of darkness forgetting to cherish the very gifts that their survival has graced them with. So many have walked through hell of heartache, of great tragedy walking through it without recognizing that they now can sing a new song with a renewed sense of appreciation as each day approaches.

Others come through their own storms ready to tackle each moment, each conversation, each day with a renewed sense of being that outshines the sun, even when the clouds are dark and threatening... they look for the rainbow just because they have been through so much. They have learned, they refuse to be lessened by conversations, situations, or circumstance. They, in their own way, defy gravity by their attitude, by their heart song, by their every breath.

What are you doing to make yourself feel fantastic and those around you who are the recipient of your words and your presence?

Feelings, thoughts, opinions all live within each person... they change like tides at times, they come they go. They can be influenced or directed by others, their actions, behaviors, their words. In good or bad ways. Mistakes happen; some will call that learning! People get through it, some harbor grudges, some laugh about it, others push through it; let's call that living! We can either climb the mountain, sit at the bottom. We can surf the waves, dive under them... or sit on the sand and talk about those who live their own way while wishing we had the nerve or courage!

What are you learning as you are living the best life possible for you?

We may walked many miles, lived through many an experiences, joys, heartaches, but we are never too old to learn. When others let us know of their steps, we always can glean something new, or maybe not. BUT, we can recognize whatever it is from another with simply a nod, simply some encouragement, or perhaps a reminder that life is to be lived fully, vividly, and beautifully. In troubled times, we can still be soft, be kind, be beautiful. It comes from within, it is how we will be remembered. It is one of life's lessons in grace, it is LIVING.

BE... all that you were born to be and then strive to be better.

That's a wrap for this day, (and maybe even tomorrow)

Walk in beauty,

DRSherry

I hear you~

noreply@blogger.com (Dr Sherry E Showalter, LSCW, MMsc, BCD,) — Wed, 18 Jun 2014 15:05:00 +0000

I hear you and those fine professionals out there who will say:

tell it like it is and get it off your chest!

Let others know how you feel, how you think, what you want.... I get that. Don't let things build inside and create or add to your already simmering stress! We've all heard that, been there and probably can write volumes about that! The great philosopher Dr. Seuss is known for that quote!

HOWEVER...there are times things said might just be taken a bit too far, when opinions might be voiced and sound like almighty judgments and hurt can be sharper than a switchblade extended from nowhere to the depths of the heart. It is during those times that one person may feel they were "just telling it like it is" and the other may be wounded beyond compare.... one feeling as though they are tellin' it like it is and decreasing stress and others wondering how someone could be so ugly or bitter.

It is in those times that professionals and Dr. Seuss perhaps should have not been so literal!

Great ways to rid stress is working within the heart, stretching beyond the comfort zone of understanding, and acceptance along with exercise and new experiences. We cannot forget laughter and sugar... You can never get enough sugar in the quest of sweet and loving words, actions and memories to reflect back upon!

I hear you... we all have a story, a wish, a hope, a whatever it is we have.. for self and those we love, admire, and want good things for. Each of us can help that along with encouraging words, understanding nods, and walking the road of understanding even in times when we have no earthly idea of the next steps. Faith, Hope, Trust in the Creator to keep on hand on our shoulder and the other across mouths at times maybe the best we can do,with only sounds of laughter squeaking out when it dawns on us that we are but a small part of a wonderful world!

Be good ... Give your best, do it... the right way, all day.

Walk in beauty
DRSES
carry on!

Your thoughts voiced to another's ears... just wow!

noreply@blogger.com (Dr Sherry E Showalter, LSCW, MMsc, BCD,) — Tue, 17 Jun 2014 07:03:00 +0000

It is remarkable how many people do not hear themselves. How many feel free to express their way as the only way, or the right way, or to insert their feelings and thoughts into the hearts and minds of another. It must be the weather, the heat, the hatred of Iraq and fears of the world that has people forgetting to hit the "pause" button in their brains. Tones of voices are often stronger than words uttered or words uttered leave us speechless in wondering when God stepped down and allowed a mere human to step up to the plate saying how it should, or aughta be for others. Is it that folks just forget to use their filters? Or where are those filters that folks used to use...
Maybe it is a respect issue; where we each respect each others' values, worth, energy as individuals with our own path to walk in our own way. It may not be my way or your way, but then again... we all should be busy walking our own path so busy in fact that we don't really have the time to get over involved in the steps of others. Sometimes folks seem to feel "pulled" into the lives/situations of others. They work so hard to make something happen for the good, for the better, but after awhile feel drained by it or owed because of it. It may be during those times when old triggers get pulled that it is best to shake it off, to visualize well, to not get "jacked up" as you remember this profound proverb:

And then, perhaps words and voices will be more joyous and loving!

Yes, perhaps that is the word; respect of all living things, respect for the fallen, the stories and the falls along the way.

I sat with an interesting gentleman who spent his time telling me of his family; their failures, their wrong ways of doing things. He was worried of this and a bit of that, he complained about one and the other not living as he expected or wanted. Seems he had a lot to say but ended with "I love them so much, but..."

I watched him closely wondering why he had chosen to criticize people he claimed to love, to show such disrespect of those very people that loved him, yet now had his words etched in heart said in times of anger or fear or frustration. I listened as he spoke of his drunken times, his bad boy times, his mistakes in life... and then had to wonder why he was denying those he loved to make their own without his judgment and anger. Seems he had forgotten all those years, all those times, all those years now standing in with his opinions and right ways to do while hurting the ones he loved. As we sat together I had to ask if he respected his kids, his nieces and nephews. I know I had a reaction to his answer. He said, "I never really thought about that, about respecting them...guess it never crossed my mind."

A person doesn't have to always like what others are doing. Hell they don't have to do it or anything if they don't want to. BUT, there comes a time in life where just enjoying the life you have is up to you, smiling more and accepting things as they are is enough. Have a bad day, a bad thought? Rinse your mouth with mouth wash, take yourself out for a great meal. Use your mouth for something other then putting harmful words into the Universe or the hearts of those who matter to you. After all, you are living what will become the memories long after that moment has passed. What is voiced today will echo in the heart long after it is worked through the nervous system... is really that important, that critical to think you are right, to be right, to be so wrong? We must find ways to enrich, enhance, lift others UP... As Maya Angelou stated, "try to be the rainbow in someone's cloud" (or something like that).
Everybody is so busy worrying about being lied to, about something happening and not being privy to it, folks are just too busy doing, going, and talkin' bout things. STOP. breathe, relax, move about the day with a sense of grace.

Every damn day: JUST DO SOMETHING GOOD FOR YOURSELF AND OTHERS.

Be the frog!

that is all,
DRSES

Seriously now, it's time to let it go!

noreply@blogger.com (Dr Sherry E Showalter, LSCW, MMsc, BCD,) — Mon, 16 Jun 2014 09:05:00 +0000

This is quite profound when you think on it!

As I speak to folks around the Nation, as I listen to stories in the community, in families, in my own... I am continually amazed at what folks hold on to, what they take issue with, what they let come out of their mouths. It can be personal, it can be community, it can be about our country, politics, religion or global. I stand amazed at the number of times it is the same old story on any given day and the story is not always pleasant to hear, not always helpful, yet harmful and sets a track in the brain that seems to have a loop that reminds me of a CD or old 8 track tape. It goes on and on and on and with no good resolve or music... often it skips, it repeats, it causes harm.

It seems that so many spend so much time looking in the rear view mirror that they lose sight of the wonder and the good that is in front of them or the potential of good to come. That thing called HOPE/FAITH/CHARITY/KINDNESS getting lost in the quick to speak, quick to anger, quick to react... only later to escalate with harsh words, bad or hurt feelings.

Thoughts, reactions and words that fall off the most powerful muscle of the body (the tongue) can devastate and basically just mess up a person's day, while the one who spoke them has to be right in their mind or caught up in their emotions. I have to wonder... why is it so important?

What difference will it make in an hour, a few hours, a day, a week? Will it had been worth it to make another feel bad or less than?

To say that you love someone, is to love someone. Period. You do not have to always like what they do, you don't have to always like them in a moments' time, but you never have to be unkind, I don't think you have to ever be combative in communication when you find the pause button in your brain to think before you speak. Some like to stir in shit until it stinks, it just seems that is the way of folks and the world. Others take everything to heart, they get hurt, they don't understand and would prefer to not be judged, to be assessed as being less than one of the Creator's children and a work still in progress.

Don't get me wrong, some are just mean spirited people and from time to time everyone must be called out for that!

However, in day to day life, it is astonishing to me how we want folks to do it this way, do it that way, actually many want others to do it "their way". They seem to forget that as adults they made their own mistakes, their own bad decisions, they lived their lives wide open in their youth, but now have a cow thinking the younger ones are doing it all wrong. It reminds me of that "casting a stone" concept, or glass houses in many ways.

I think of those who have suffered loss; those who have lived through sudden and unexpected loss, have watched life change in a heart beat. I then stand amazed when they speak without remembering how quickly it can all change, speaking without remembering that there is no guarantee of tomorrow and that which they speak can cut like a knife leaving a trail of blood they seem not to see or want to heal.

It happens in families, it happens in communities, it is happening in our Nation and the world. WE can only control our own actions in the hope that others will see, hear, witness that which is still good and model after it, generating the best of the best to come.

WE individually control our thoughts, our mind, our tongues and the words that fall.

If you do not like something? DO NOT DO IT.

If you think someone could do better? Encourage them but do not stick your beliefs, thoughts, and emotional threats down their throats.

IF you feel that "feeling welling up inside you" notice it, make room for it, end the conversation with I love you... before you ring a bell that resonates on the heart and will never be unrung.

Not everyone will live as you or anyone else want them to... Not everyone is walking your path, it is yours alone to walk...

BUT, it is time to water your own grass and put energy into the greening of it, while respecting others and the way they choose to water theirs. It is past time to live in "back then and they/he/she did this and that".

It may help to run through a few quick steps in your mind; "does it really matter? is this my business? why do I care? Can I just be kind through this? Will it matter next week? What impact am I leaving on the heart and mind of another?"

Some folks are quick to give their opinions, but their opinions sound like punishment or judgment. Sad thing is, they damage relationships, they hurt others and become a "I'm right they are wrong" kind of thing that builds up hurt, resentment and trust issues.

Seriously now, there comes a time in life when you have to just let it go. Live your life wide open, remembering that you too were once in shoes that fit differently, with ideas that were different, with times that were different...

This is YOUR time, your life, spend it well... live it kindly, live it with new stories, new experiences, new ways of seeing the world around you, in love, kindness and compassion for all living things.

End each conversation with a voice that genuinely would have no regrets if tomorrow never comes. Seriously now.. you gotta learn to let it go!

Walk your path, in beauty
DRSES

I wish you laughter today

noreply@blogger.com (Dr Sherry E Showalter, LSCW, MMsc, BCD,) — Sun, 15 Jun 2014 12:11:00 +0000

Happy Sunday to you all. For those Dad's out there who are being celebrated I wish you a Happy Fathers' Day! and with that, for those Mom's who are doin' it all I wish you the same...

I hope for you laughter, a smile that lights up the day and reflects in all that you do, in all that you see and helps to give you pause before words come from your tongue, as you pause in thinking before you speak.

Is it kind, is it necessary, it it really the message you want to leave in the heart and mind of another... Those small thoughts that take only a second can leave a large imprint and last a long time with whatever it is that comes next.

Oh yes, many have opinions, have thoughts, have heated reactions of what how and when things should be... remembering to "think" before the sound comes from within is ever so important and to let the tongue move with love, with kindness, and with gentle caring will always win no matter the time or situation. We only have this day, this memory, this bell to ring. It can't be unrung... sing, dance, do good always.

And so it is, with prayers on the wind and hope in our hearts for those we love, those we have hopes for and our own path that we walk.
May you walk it with honor, integrity and right way relations.
The fire is lit, the sage is in the air.

Sending up prayers, good thoughts, great vibes and wonderful laughter to all:

DLB, Dot/COB/Mom, Angela, Kamryn Elijah, D'Vante, Olivia, Joan, Linda McDonald, Laura, Mitch, Eileen, Mary, Kelley, Joanna, Renie, Jean, K & A, Tony, Dave, Cheri, Dan, Audrey, Anne, Patti R., Pat, Stephen, Matthew, Jane, Walter, Jen, Snoop, Lance Dyer, Dakota, Bev, Erik, Shari Taylor Webster, Stephen Bright and family, Gayle, Chris W., Penni, Suz, Chase, Jaxon, Matthew, Bryan, Corey Richardson (Kokie), Dave, Eric, Paul, Rick, Alexis, Bill, Tom, Bob, Kurt, Dianne, Suzannah,
Elizabeth Gardiner Myers, her beloved sister-in-law and family, little Rylie, Jan, Charlie, Eagan, John D, John S., Kurt, Kendra, Matt, Stoney, Regina, Suz, Corby, TK, Ericka, Louise, Tommy, Joan, Bob, Fluff, Scott, The Korabek/Shram tribe, AnneMary, Shirley, Karen, Lori, Tanya, Kendra, Kurt, Joan, Jack, Tom, Chris, Sabian, Rus, Stan, Greg, Scott, Christian, Mike, Richy, Areila, Penny, Ford, Bob, Frank, Eric, Kurt, Bob, Chases Cows, George, Justan, Phillip, Deion, Hunter, Pop, Ledg, Matthew, Stephen, Pat, Jennifer,

Maya Angelou we will miss you here on this earth... thank you phenomenal woman for all that you are. May we all be better because of all that you were.

For our warriors, We are fighting alongside you and thinking about you.

Rebecca, Hudson, Peyton, Dottie, Zero, George, Peyton, Billy Ray, Yvonne, Les, Lana, Lanita, Kelly, John, Bill,

~ `~

For:

Erin, Ellie, Andrei, WM, Yvonne Cassie, Mildred, Michele, Evelyn, Kelly, Betsy, The Faulkner Family, Stan, Dan, Christie, Ledge, Rick Paul, Colin G Brady,

Julia Skinner and her NRV ELITE in Christiansburg VA,thank you for a wonderful year.

Coach Woodka, the Tarpon Springs Basketball team, Coach Carb and family, Cooper, Mark, Marvin, Zaden, Zamerion, Daniel,

Carol, Sandy, Carrie and her family in Aurora,Ali,BK, Carolyn, Karen, Kelly and her family up North,

For those who have asked and we are standing with you in your time of sorrow, angst, difficulties.

For:

Harriet, Sherry Reed, Mary Grace, Shirley, BK, Stephanie, Lorrie, Pop and his family, Sherry C., Katie and Bill Majestic, Marvin, Layne, Lori, Jim, D, Heidi, Julia, Rolling Thunder, The Patriot Guard, Carol,The Schram/Korabek family, Kyle, Mark, Todd, Yvonne, Harry, Kevin, Jen, Charles, Glenn, "the littleOne", Anne Klein, Monica Graff, Penny, Chris, Joy, Anne, Sara, Jenn, Shirley, AnneMary, Michael, Jeannie,Patti Labelle and family, The Wounded Warrior Brigades, Warren Buffet, Best of health be yours sir, Kyle Jones in TN; a magic maker, a musician and a good man, M Dave Glenn Alley a talented musician who is extending himself in service to others, blessings to you friend,BK, Kevin, Dash, Graham, Suzannah,

Seth Greenberg and family, Eileen D. and family, Steve and family, Anne, A, Sandy, "EI", Kev, Chris,

Lyle Emerson and his family in Buffalo and little Kendra fighting Lymphoblastic Leukemia,

Bernice Etsitty and the life of her son, gone too soon Garrett Joe,Joey, Sam, Tyler, Robbie, Elizabeth, Tommy,

Duke Limongello gone too soon,

and all the children of all colors, all ages, and causes

gone to soon.

Sandy Hook Elementary School

in memory and prayers:

and for

OUR President and his family

of our United States of America,

those who are serving our Nation and their service animals

and all who have served

and their families,those who have fallen and are still missing we honor and thank you,

May the Creator bless you for holding us in your arms to protect our freedoms.

We remember.

Jenn, Bill, Denise, Ashe, Stuart Jr, Barry Gibb, his family, Whitney, the Houston family, the family of our disco queen Donna Summer ,

All those I was honored to spend time with in

Comfort Keepers, KS/MO, " Choctaw Nation, IN, VA, DC, MD, FL, CT, PA, Ohio, Michigan, South Dakotas, Geisinger Medical Center, Michigan, Oklahoma, Ohio, Solaris Hospice, Evercare, Hospice of the Western Reserve, Gesinger, Guardian Angel Hospice, Crossroads Hospice, New Hope Hospice, Comfort Keepers KS, El Paso, Santa Fe, Albuquerque"

2 Wolves and Jinx in SD, (http://www.2wolvescreations.com/)

AND for:

(Feel free to let me know if you would like to add your/or a friends name to our prayer bowl.

Walk in beauty
DRSES

Darkest before Dawn

noreply@blogger.com (Dr Sherry E Showalter, LSCW, MMsc, BCD,) — Wed, 11 Jun 2014 09:42:00 +0000

Hello everyone and everything... one thing is certain, when you only get sleep for an hour or two and then move out to the lanai... it is quiet, it is dark, and if you have the camera and the moments... YOU just never know the visitors that may be watching over you. So it is now, as I picked up the camera knowing I was not alone!

Yes, spirits are all around me, I feel their comforting presence and a few allowed me to catch the picture... I felt their strength, the love, the presence and then thought, "well I'm just sitting here, waiting for the pain med to kick in, might as well shoot a couple photos".

I got on Facebook and amazingly an old friend states away was awake as well; she with a sinus infection feeling like she woke with a hangover.
Me here, now the numb is worn off from the epidurals for my lower back and trigger injections in the hip today. Quite frankly that pain of post treatment to cure is hell, especially when the sound of a scream that is recognized as your own in the quiet of the night pops my eyes out of my head as I reassure myself it will be temporary and maybe just maybe this will be the magic one that will end this long haul of horrible. It is quite beautiful here at this time of the morning, now 5:22 am, I've been up at the angel hours over the last several hours. Each and every time, sitting out here and thinking of the sacredness and beauty that still fills our world, our lives and the true need to look for the good. Each and every day, "we must look for the good" in our lives, our communities, our country.

As I slid into a darkened pool managing not to fall on plants or trip and wake the whole house, I had to grin thinking of the 4 leggeds who are sleeping the sleep not minding that I am grunting, not minding that I am rambling around, not a sound have they made. But heaven help me during the day should I disturb their sleep or open a candy wrapper!

They are rather amusing that way, and oh what a great sense of security they provide in the middle of the night as I prowl around making sounds that should alert them, but ohhh NO not these sleepy ones.

It appears that they too enjoy rest, enjoy deep sleep, while so many that I speak to professionally around the country seem to not sleep well at night. Instead they lay their tired heads on their pillows and their brain jumps out and sits on their chests. It then becomes so very active with thoughts, with memories relived of the day; what they could have done more of, what they should of could of would of done had they had more time, had more energy, had more knowledge or resources. Just when people need to unwind, just when their bodies are ready to rest, that brain is ready to get busy it seems.

Or old man pain pays a visit and can't find a comfortable position for the body to get in.

I admire folks that can hit their head on a pillow and just find blissful sleep, usually I am one of those! This isn't one of those times, thanks to this unrelenting pain in my lower back known as sciatica or sacroiliac issues that have required epidural injections and those 72 hours of disbursement later! I still believe that if we fall down 7 times, we get up 8... so it goes.

When we fall at least then we can hit our knees for a few moments and give thanks before standing again.

We can realign our senses and our thoughts, and our very being as we stand stronger each time, and ready for game time.

We can and we will, as we absorb the darkness knowing that the dawn is just about to rise.
A beautiful sight indeed it is, blessed to be alive to see it happen, and just about giddy over the whole thing when you think about it.

While waiting it is a good time to remember:

So ... today I hope whatever you are going through, wherever you are, that you find humor in all that you are doing, in whatever situation or thing you might be going through or enduring. I hope you WIN... in all ways in all days.

I also hope you will take this most profound truth within you and remember this often before you talk to yourself, and definitely before you engage with others, be it friends, family, associates: THINK

T - is it true?
H- is it helpful? (to you and others)
I- is it inspiring? (try to always be inspiring)
N- is it necessary? (oh we need things to be)
K- is it kind? (heaven knows we need more kindness)

Just think before you speak, pause if you must mid-sentence and remember the words you speak have an impact on the person(s) hearing it... in good, bad, or awful ways... BE the best version of you and add to that ripple of goodness that will spread and move through the Universe with great vibrations in good way relations, personally and professionally.

Spread that light of yours everywhere you go and with every conversation you have... Leave the rest to the Creator!

Many blessings from my home to yours, from my day to yours. If I ever cross your mind, I hope you find reason to smile.
Walk in beauty,
DrSherry

It's a beautiful day, prayers goin UP for all!

noreply@blogger.com (Dr Sherry E Showalter, LSCW, MMsc, BCD,) — Sun, 08 Jun 2014 13:43:00 +0000

Wishing you happiness, sunshine, blue skies and wonderment today! The fire is burning, the sage is in the air, as I sit in thought and reflection of time spent in KS/MO, and right here at home, so many beautiful people, wonderful times, and things that make our hearts sing... I still say, it's a wonderful world.

Sending up prayers, good thoughts, great vibes to all:

DLB, Dot/COB/Mom, Angela, Kamryn Elijah, D'Vante, Olivia, Joan, Linda McDonald, Laura, Mitch, Eileen, Mary, Kelley, Joanna, Renie, Jean, K & A, Tony, Dave, Cheri, Dan, Audrey, Anne, Patti R., Pat, Stephen, Matthew, Jane, Walter, Jen, Snoop, Lance Dyer, Dakota, Bev, Erik, Shari Taylor Webster, Stephen Bright and family, Gayle, Chris W., Penni, Suz, Chase, Jaxon, Matthew, Bryan, Corey Richardson (Kokie), Dave, Eric, Paul, Rick, Alexis, Bill, Tom, Bob, Kurt, Dianne, Suzannah,
Elizabeth Gardiner Myers, her beloved sister-in-law and family, little Rylie, Jan, Charlie, Eagan, John D, John S., Kurt, Kendra, Matt, Stoney, Regina, Suz, Corby, TK, Ericka, Louise, Tommy, Joan, Bob, Fluff, Scott, The Korabek/Shram tribe, AnneMary, Shirley, Karen, Lori, Tanya, Kendra, Kurt, Joan, Jack, Tom, Chris, Sabian, Rus, Stan, Greg, Scott, Christian, Mike, Richy, Areila, Penny, Ford, Bob, Frank, Eric, Kurt, Bob, Chases Cows, George, Justan, Phillip, Deion, Hunter, Pop, Ledg, Matthew, Stephen, Pat, Jennifer,

Maya Angelou we will miss you here on this earth... thank you phenomenal woman for all that you are. May we all be better because of all that you were.

For our warriors, We are fighting alongside you and thinking about you.

Rebecca, Hudson, Peyton, Dottie, Zero, George, Peyton, Billy Ray, Yvonne, Les, Lana, Lanita, Kelly, John, Bill,

~ `~

For:

Erin, Ellie, Andrei, WM, Yvonne Cassie, Mildred, Michele, Evelyn, Kelly, Betsy, The Faulkner Family, Stan, Dan, Christie, Ledge, Rick Paul, Colin G Brady,

Julia Skinner and her NRV ELITE in Christiansburg VA,thank you for a wonderful year.

Coach Woodka, the Tarpon Springs Basketball team, Coach Carb and family, Cooper, Mark, Marvin, Zaden, Zamerion, Daniel,

Carol, Sandy, Carrie and her family in Aurora,Ali,BK, Carolyn, Karen, Kelly and her family up North,

For those who have asked and we are standing with you in your time of sorrow, angst, difficulties.

For:

Harriet, Sherry Reed, Mary Grace, Shirley, BK, Stephanie, Lorrie, Pop and his family,

Seth Greenberg and family, Eileen D. and family, Steve and family, Anne, A, Sandy, "EI", Kev, Chris,

Lyle Emerson and his family in Buffalo and little Kendra fighting Lymphoblastic Leukemia,

Bernice Etsitty and the life of her son, gone too soon Garrett Joe,Joey, Sam, Tyler, Robbie, Elizabeth, Tommy,

Duke Limongello gone too soon,

and all the children of all colors, all ages, and causes

gone to soon.

Sandy Hook Elementary School

in memory and prayers:

and for

OUR President and his family

of our United States of America,

those who are serving our Nation and their service animals

and all who have served

and their families,those who have fallen and are still missing we honor and thank you,

May the Creator bless you for holding us in your arms to protect our freedoms.

We remember.

Jenn, Bill, Denise, Ashe, Stuart Jr, Barry Gibb, his family, Whitney, the Houston family, the family of our disco queen Donna Summer ,

All those I was honored to spend time with in

2 Wolves and Jinx in SD, (http://www.2wolvescreations.com/)

AND for:

(Feel free to let me know if you would like to add your/or a friends name to our prayer bowl.

Walk in beauty
DRSES

JUNE 3rd,Happy Birthday again Granny!

noreply@blogger.com (Dr Sherry E Showalter, LSCW, MMsc, BCD,) — Tue, 03 Jun 2014 07:30:00 +0000

http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xdjcha_you-ll-alway-be-the-wind-beneath-my_people

From here to there she continues to be everywhere... Quite simply, love never dies...

Prayers for all in the bowl and love across the suns rays...

Please take a moment to wish my Granny a Happy Birthday today as we continue to be graced in being her legacy here. Thank you

blessings to you and yours today and always... time sure does keep moving... it's hard to believe it's been so long.

Walk in Beauty,
DRSES

Zac Brown and band; passion that is hard to describe

noreply@blogger.com (Dr Sherry E Showalter, LSCW, MMsc, BCD,) — Mon, 02 Jun 2014 13:33:00 +0000

There are some people, ordinary people, famous people, that just take your breath away. I had the great pleasure of seeing The Zac Brown Band in Tampa this weekend and I was not at all prepared for what ended in being the best concert of my life... with musicians that lit up a stage with passion that words are hard to describe. Zac Brown with a guitar that is beginning to look like Willie Nelson's guitar (Trigger), but he is much too young to have a guitar that is so worn, so fine tuned and well played. Zac who takes to the stage like most of us walk through our home, with ease, with humility, with a smile that reaches into the soul of each person it falls on during the night. He and fellow musicians could be playing for 50,000 or for 3 and they would still be intense, incredible and their abilities on those instruments awe inspiring with such passion that it could easily take you to a place in your soul that flies as fast as his fingers on the frets. Whether circling his fiddle player in a duel of "Devil went down to Georgia" as though they were playing for the win, to singing with such earnest love and fun songs of chicken, I do believe this young man has more passion than the majority of folks in the crowd that filled the lawns and seats.

He is generous, he is a master, he is on tour city after city, bringing his smile, his perfection, his band of talented men to the stages across our nation. At one point during a song, a soldier appeared, standing at salute with a flag behind him... The audience went insane with screams and applause... The volume level was deafening, the soldier never moved... the intensity of the sounds I have never known the likes of. It was more than words can explain the feeling and the song played on as he stood at attention, as he continued his salute. As the thousands stood and screamed their "thank you" for our military.

There are some artists that once you have seen them live, their music takes on a different perspective on CD/radio... it adds a depth that is like the seas. Behind the stage there were scrims that took the breath away; oceans, sunsrises, at one point looking like Zac was standing in the rain of Tampa... And in a heart beat the stage was cleared and these musicians were sitting in chairs in a semi circle with guitars playing their hearts out... With songs that filled the soul, with faces of rapture, of great gratitude, or mad respect for each other and with passion beyond what most folks will ever know. Zac is one of those rare talents in this world of music today... and one helluva a good man who has maintained his humility wanting to just play his music and do some good along the way. He let the crowd know that $1.00 of their ticket was helping his foundation for kids across this 2014 tour; added up that's a lot of money! Take a look at the good being done at Camp Southern Ground Organization!

https://campsouthernground.org/

Yes, there are just some things that "telling about" doesn't do justice... Zac Brown and the Band seems to be one of those things... One has to experience it, to be open to it, to "see it/feel it/go with it" in order to be open to the feelings and thoughts. Once that is done, it makes hearing him different in and on so many levels.

It was a night to remember, a night that now allows me to erase the not so good moments and times of obscene drunkenness and in appropriate behavior of humankind that was around us. I do believe it opened my eyes to part of what is "wrong with our world" as I observed and was enraged by some of what I witnessed and what was in the row in front of us... the lack of respect, the lack of care, the .... I could go on and on, but am working hard to remove those images and confrontations from my mind as I continue to enjoy all that was good, and Zac Brown was more than good. He was "more than words can say", but says it all in his music, even when "I saw goodbye in his eyes"...

Wishing you all a most wonderful week! Let the music play on, play on, play ON... through you, in you, and move you...

Walk in beauty,
DRSES

Maya Angelou, we have lost a beloved woman

noreply@blogger.com (Dr Sherry E Showalter, LSCW, MMsc, BCD,) — Wed, 28 May 2014 16:33:00 +0000

"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 has walked on this morning from her home at 86 years old. The angels are singing, old friends are embracing her as we here will miss her terribly and mourn her inspiration and her beauty. A profound sadness sweeps my heart that I never had the opportunity to sit with her, just for a moment, to look into her eyes and touch her hands listening to her raspy and most remarkable words that came from her heart. Walk on phenomenal woman, you will be missed by the world. Maya has given each of us enough to be more than we thought possible with each step we take...if only take the step.

Words of wisdom for all to read, to hear, to put into action steps... while recognizing that we are more alike than we are different.

We will miss you, will mourn you and will laugh as much as we cry remembering the wisdom you have given all to learn and live from through the years.... Thank you Maya Angelou for your life and your gifts. Watch over us please... Let us all remember a bit of what you said,

"Our country needs us all right now to stand up and be counted. We need to try to be great citizens. We are necessary in this country, and we need to give something -- that is to say, go to a local hospital, go to the children's ward and offer to the nurse in charge an hour twice a month that you can give them reading children's stories or poetry," she said. "And go to an old folks' home and read the newspaper to somebody. Go to your church or your synagogue or your mosque, and say, 'I'd like to be of service. I have one hour twice a month.'

"You'll be surprised at how much better you will feel," she said. "And good done anywhere is good done everywhere."

With deep respect and gratitude for a phenomenal woman.

DrSherry

Memorial Day around the Nation, grief strikes America

noreply@blogger.com (Dr Sherry E Showalter, LSCW, MMsc, BCD,) — Tue, 27 May 2014 15:12:00 +0000

The wreaths have been laid, Rolling Thunder has rolled into the Nations' Capital once again, thousands and thousands have paid their respect and honored the fallen. Memories and hopes left unfilled by those who gave all for our freedoms on this land as Taps has been heard over and over. The wait list for burial continues as more and more flag draped coffins come home.

Many have now returned to work, have returned from long awaited vacations to the beaches or the mountains, the grills have been cleaned new memories made, and it's back to the grind. Our soldiers are out there 24/7 in situations that most of us would not ever understand even if they voice recorded a 24 hour day and sent it personally to each of us.

So many year of wondering when will this senseless war(s) end and our men/women/service dogs come home and receive all the care and treatment that they have so willingly provided to our country. While now the scandals are filling the news of those Vets on the streets, unemployed, dying to get care at VAMC.

Some things just do not make sense.

Spending the weekend, honoring the fallen, celebrating the very freedoms we the people have as a result of those who signed their names on a blank check when putting on their uniforms however long ago. Those who visited the final resting places of loved ones; some took a bottle of Jack or a beer and sat awhile... others lay on graves and cried until they were weak missing their loved one, while still others toasted all the fallen between whatever it was they were doing that made them feel good as they enjoyed their freedom.

Some used the time to bitch, complain, whine and show their hate and want of something different or better. Millions got on their bikes and rode to D.C. once again with flags flying to D.C. to be a part of remembering, honoring, and demanding, "DO NOT FORGET, and Bring them ALL HOME", as a Marine stood in salute when they rode past him. Just like every other year before as so many stood on the sidewalks waving and offering their support, love and gratitude.

In other places across the Nation, folks took to the highways, the skies and went on that long weekend to destinations known for the fun, the sun and the relaxation. Many flags could be seen flying with pride. Children, adults, Elders... some fishing, many swimming, all just living their lives and hearing the sound of their souls that life is good.

Yet, have we not taught the children who are now young adults ... do they get a pass of undervaluing life itself as we hear of shootings in Myrtle Beach over the weekend? Yesterday at beautiful Clearwater Beach, beginning in a parking lot of the Hyatt Resort, gang activity with someone going home to get his gun and returning, there is gang violence and shootings?
Near a pier where families always go, past a beach where people are laying, playing and having the times of their lives, there is a shooting and gunfire? Up the tourist road to a restaurant known best for its sunsets, there is a shooting? Gangs now go to the beach over Memorial Day weekend to "settle it", to "do what rival gangs do"? Where is the moral fiber of people and the knowledge that someone will die, perhaps that someone who has nothing to do with the rival or the petty issues of those with gang mentalities that are entering into the space of resorts and a beach? What in the world has happened to our communities and our country and especially on a day when we are honoring the fallen?

How does a person get "into it", leave a place to go and retrieve a gun, return just as pissed off and all hell break loose... It makes a person wonder, what how others are raised in life, what they played with as kids, how they studied in schools, where they think the justice system stands on this... and how they can involve everyday people who are just out living their lives.

Out in California, the shootings, the video's the comments that I have yet to read... the craziness of desire of want and of entitlement to take the life of another. Or to even entertain that is OK, will continually boggle my mind.

3 hots and a cot, cable t.v., and a place to get "buff" while serving some time must not look like much of a deterrent to such horrific actions of some against others.

We as a Nation of people are stuck in a grief cycle without completion; one of shock/depression/Anger... as it keeps going, going, going... with no end in sight. It makes a person sick on the inside and others afraid to go outside.

Remember the fallen, the walk they must of made as you continue to stand, continue to walk vigilantly with your head high while looking for the good. Parents, Grandparents, People, teach your children well... stand UP against violence, against behaviors that you would not want to see inflicted on you or loved ones, or anyone.

Yes we know there are horrid things happening all over the world, countries that have histories longer than our imagination based on blood shed against their relations, against their neighbors, we send them our brothers and sisters, we send them our money while having none for ourselves. BUT we must take care of our own, we must find ways to end this lack of compassion in the streets, in homes, and random attacks on good people and a justice system that is broken reminding one of a hotel for the broken where the meals are paid for by citizens and our folks in Nursing Homes go with far less. We must stop this madness with more than hate posts, comments and name calling. It begins in each home, each community.

That is all.