"Stoopin It" In the Suburbs

Bliss

2024-02-10T21:41:00.002-06:00

Bliss is as Black as it is White. In Between The Grey.

The Dark Dirt becomes the clay. The journey is a seed, awakened in water, light, and love.

Soon the Old Form reveals its beauty in full. Black, grey and white all the same.

Once the forms of illusion are cleared, the Bliss Stands Tall; Unafraid.

@Laura Rogers

Covid Changed My Life

2023-10-21T14:24:00.001-05:00

Sitting here in my MN home with the air conditioning on high, I struggle to breathe. Why? Well, that is a very complicated question, but suffice it to say, I have asthma now after Covid 19. I have not been able to write since before the pandemic hit. The physical trauma was harsh, but the emotional trauma may be worse. The entire nation was gaslit about Covid and Vaccines.

Now, the year is 2023, June 14th.

Our skies in Minnesota are quite heavy with particles from Canadian wildfires. Now as an asthmatic, I have to be extra cautious about weather; cold, hot or low air quality. Today I have to inhale my steroids or suffer an asthma attack.

As a Covid Long Hauler, that means after Covid, I still have symptoms, the smorgasbord of symptoms that I have endured is almost endless. But I digress. Let's go back to December 25th, 2019. I pass Linda as she sleeps on her bed as I am on the way to the ER. It's 7am in the morning. I tell her "I'm going to the hospital; I think I'm dying. The doctors has no idea what was wrong with me. I was dripped for days on steroids and it took me all this time to recover. Still not baseline, but life is a gift.

It is now October 2023. God gave me a second chance at life. I am so grateful, even got to travel to Europe with my daughter as her Teaching English as second language comes to a close. What an abundant life she made there. Spain is amazing.

I am vibrating so high now as the sickest parts of Covid are transmuting. I know as God says in the bible, we are all the light. I meditate and pray most of the time. Life is Magical.

Focus on yourself as that is not narcissistic as society says it is, but self-love is what Jesus taught. No one can take my light and I protect my light/God energy. Protect your energy at all costs.

I have everything I need. Thank You God.

Love and Light

Laura

Gas Lighting Awareness

2020-12-18T20:08:00.001-06:00

As a therapist, life coach and spiritual healer; it is beyond frightful the gas lighting going on in our White House and our world. It brings up horrifying memories for me as I compare my old life with whatis happening in our white house and in our nation. It is very concerning if you look at the circle of people in the lives of the president and the myriad of lies they just believe, that fall out of his mouth. It is not that hard to be brain washed, in fact, if you read on Stockholm syndrome, it will give you a great look into the nature of this disorder. Gas lighting is a form of psychological abuse whereby the perpetrator tries to gain control by making others believe things that are not true. The perpetrator manipulates the person or members of a group by using their secrets and/ or laying down seeds of doubt so they not only questions their sanity, but feel aligned to the perpetrator. Gas Lighters are like vampires, sucking out reality by repeatedly saying the same things over and over and making us believe we are "The insane Ones". I should know, I am pretty much an expert since I was married to a gas lighter. The long term effects of the abusive nature of this narcissistic, venomous personality is hard to define at first, but when educated on this everything makes sense. Hint, there is life after being gas lighted.

I was deeply scarred by the abusive nature of my gas lighter. Even after all these years, 19 years divorced and 21 years since I served him divorce papers, I am embarrassed to admit it took me so long to understand what "it Was."How could this happen to me, I am in the mental health field?

I tell groups of women and men in my training's of family violence and abuse and what we can do about it, that I will never forget the day I was able to "NAME IT AS ABUSE."

It took a lot of love and support to get me there, but I finally saw the Real person behind my 13 year marriage and the father of my two beloved children.

What I teach women and men in these sessions is how to look for these characteristics:

1. Is the person trying to isolate you? My ex used to keep me away from my twin sister and father as often as possible because he knew they loved and supported me. He could not brain wash me if I was my normal social self around the people I love.
2. Does this person name call and degrade you? A great example of this is when my ex and I were going to get a family picture taken. He stated matter of factly, lets wait till you lose weight to take this family picture. The sad thing is, I look back and I was so beautiful. It does not matter fat or thin, how f' ing horrid to say something like this to your wife who made vows with. (it worked, he made me feel ugly)
3. Is it always someone else's fault. Anyone in this persons life is demeaned. They go out of their way to make sure you know, it is never his/her fault, but everyone else around him/her.
4. Is this person possessive and wants to have you all to him/her self. Be careful, especially in the day of cell phones and social media. 10 calls within five minutes is absolutely glaring.
5. Do they tell Your stories for you to others and the stories are not what really happened? This happened frequently in my marriage with the gas lighter, and it got worse over time.
6. Red Flags! Sooo many red flags and I know I saw them and turned a blind eye. He hit me in the face before going into a dinner event with his family because I disagreed with him. Yep, that's all it took. Disagree with a narcissist, and you pay for it.
7. The power over you with $. I had to ask him for money. Ugh, how degrading. Not at all a partnership, I had to ask for $ even for groceries to feed our kids.I would get degraded when buying anything for me like bath bubbles.
8. I was F'in invisible to him. He sure wined and dined me when we met, then oh boy, the ride was over and I was a burden in every aspect of the word. Life was as I called it and my domestic abuse group called it, the Friday Night Horror show, but the bummer, it was my life.
9. Mind Control or f'ing- I look back now and shutter because most of my precious time he was using verbal and psychological abuse by telling me things, like, I did not say that or I did not hit you or insane things that to you and me are right in front of us. I mean, how could he actually say, he did not hit me, yet here I am at a DQ after he hit me and I stated don't ever hit me again. He made me pull up to a DQ window and order cones for my children as tears flowed down my cheeks with him in the passenger seat saying "Laura, calm down, I did not hit you and this is not good for the kids."

Cycle of Abuse

Trumps Ego builds his own impeachment case

2020-01-22T22:46:00.002-06:00

If you are versed on Narcissism or Gas lighting at all, you know that Donald J. Trump displays the Narcissist personality and Gas lighting behavior to a T. He just can't keep his big mouth shut. He is his own worst enemy.

I will circle back to this further in my post. Right now, lets define Narcissism and Gas lighting because it is important to understand the psychological profile of DJT and why he acts the way he does.

Narcissistic personality disorder as defined by Mayo Clinic says: is a mental condition in which people have an inflated sense of their own importance, a deep need for excessive attention and admiration, troubled relationships, and a lack of empathy for others. But behind this mask of extreme confidence lies a fragile self-esteem that's vulnerable to the slightest criticism.

A narcissistic personality disorder causes problems in many areas of life, such as relationships, work, school or financial affairs. People with narcissistic personality disorder may be generally unhappy and disappointed when they're not given the special favors or admiration they believe they deserve. They may find their relationships unfulfilled, and others may not enjoy being around them.

Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of narcissistic personality disorder and the severity of symptoms vary. People with the disorder can:

Have an exaggerated sense of self-importance
Have a sense of entitlement and require constant, excessive admiration
Expect to be recognized as superior even without achievements that warrant it
Exaggerate achievements and talents
Be preoccupied with fantasies about success, power, brilliance, beauty or the perfect mate
Believe they are superior and can only associate with equally special people
Monopolize conversations and belittle or look down on people they perceive as inferior
Expect special favors and unquestioning compliance with their expectations
Take advantage of others to get what they want
Have an inability or unwillingness to recognize the needs and feelings of others
Be envious of others and believe others envy them
Behave in an arrogant or haughty manner, coming across as conceited, boastful and pretentious
Insist on having the best of everything — for instance, the best car or office

At the same time, people with narcissistic personality disorder have trouble handling anything they perceive as criticism, and they can:

Become impatient or angry when they don't receive special treatment
Have significant interpersonal problems and easily feel slighted
React with rage or contempt and try to belittle the other person to make themselves appear superior
Have difficulty regulating emotions and behavior
Experience major problems dealing with stress and adapting to change
Feel depressed and moody because they fall short of perfection
Have secret feelings of insecurity, shame, vulnerability and humiliation

Gaslighting

Psychiatrist Theodore Dorpat described two characteristics of gaslighting: that the abuser wants full control of feelings, thoughts, or actions of the victim, and that the abuser emotionally abuses the victim discreetly, but in hostile, abusive and coercive ways.

Patricia Evans states there are seven "warning signs of gaslighting are the observed abuser's:

1. Withholding information from the victim

2. Countering information to fit the abuser's perspective

3. Discounting information

4. Using verbal abuse, usually in the form of jokes

5. Blocking and diverting the victim's attention from outside sources

6. Trivializing or minimizing the victim's worth

7. Undermining the victim by gradually weakening them and their thought processes.

Hmmm, sounds a bit familiar doesn't it? Yes, if you watch our president in his tyrannical tweets, his speech and more recently the video of the President in his Davos talk,Trump spoke of the impeachment trial, " We have all the material." They don't have the material." You can't make this stuff up, he really did say this.

He could not stop himself. He stood up in front of all at Davos, bragging like a child. This is further evidence that this man has an ego bigger than the planet. Be aware all, that this behavior will incite from reporters, news outlets and perhaps even his staunch supporters that he is a train wreck for the nation. He admitted he withheld materials. Wow! Not very smart DJT. Remember this senators that stand up for him like clowns at the impeachment farce, he will have no problem throwing any of you under the bus.

We need to role model what Nancy Pelosi is doing. We must pray for our enemy. We must pray for DJT because he is a mess that is wreaking havoc on our democratic system and our national and international security.

"You may shoot me with your words, you may cut me with your eyes, you may kill me with your hatefulness, but still, like air, I shall rise." -Maya Angelou

Laura Rogers, M.A.

https://myemail.constantcontact.com/Volunteer-World-is-expanding-at-Moment-s-Hospice.html?soid=1133213561253&aid=9nY_apafi-0

2019-12-22T13:18:00.001-06:00

https://myemail.constantcontact.com/Volunteer-World-is-expanding-at-Moment-s-Hospice.html?soid=1133213561253&aid=9nY_apafi-0

Ebenezer Homes | Comcast Newsmakers

2015-05-21T13:26:00.001-05:00

Ebenezer Homes | Comcast Newsmakers

Earth Day Volunteer Appreciation Event

2015-04-20T18:56:00.001-05:00

As a Director of Volunteers, each year I plan, create and execute a Volunteer Appreciation Event. This year the date I decided on was Wednesday, April 22nd. This is earth day and my theme this year is "Volunteers Make a World of Difference."

Oh, how I adore event planning. All these exciting ideas from Pinterest and other venues I have been a part of. It somehow all comes together. I just let the creative part of me take over.

Since my theme is "Volunteers make a world of difference" and it happens to fall on Earth Day, I really played with this like a kid in a sand box.

Creating a theme and event is so similiar to the process of writing. You just let go and let the process happen. I am sure many of you out there feel the same. I knew I wanted some globe shaped glass to hold something earthy for the theme as my center piece.

Out I went and scouted out different craft, dollar stores and flower shops . It was Michaels that I found my treasures that led me into a fun earthy center piece. I first bought a large bag of moss since the big bag cost less than a small bag. That was a no brainer. Then I looked for different round glass holders. Boom, there it was. Tear drop and circular glass globe containers perfect for making some type of earthy terrarium. The pragmatic part of these is they had a hole in the front for watering. Also they had a rope on the top so you could hang them or put them on a table for decoration.

Then I went to different flower shops and landed at Bachmans. They were the only flower shop that had more than two or three air plants. Most of the flower shops that carried air plants had more Easter flowers or plants. You know your idea is leading to a creation when it happens so easy. It is meant to be when you count out exactly the perfect amount of air plants that would soon be centerpieces on each table for each generous volunteer.

So, that is how my earthy, air plant terrariums were born. It was so fun to bring air plants back with Shells and rocks that I had found at Bachmans and dollar stores to put this idea together.

I trained a volunteer resident on the creative technique. I had planned on recruiting volunteers on Volunteer Match and Craigslist Community section for to do all 18 of them. It only took one three hour block of time to put these together. I received input from the active living team and decided to put a colorful blue and green earth place mat circle under each of these. My event caterer had mirrors, so I thought circular transparent mirror, on top of Blue and Green earth cut out and on top of that the center piece. So much color, simple and beautiful and not costly. Each volunteer was to receive a give away of a little piece of the cosmos. The Easy Breezy Instructions:

First put a light layer of decorative pebbles down on the bottom of the glass terrarium, then add in one small amount of moss in the middle of the pebbles and put a hole in it. Add the small air plant in this moss hole. Once the air plant is in the hole firmly, then create away. There is no right way, just let your creative juices flow. I tried to make all of them a bit different. I added white and colored sea shells and colored decorative rock.

Make sure you spritz your air plant and moss each day. You want lively, replicas of the earth to stand out at your earth day event. It is hard to kill air plants since they live by air, but they can tend to dry up a bit. I bought a 99c spray bottle at the dollar store to water them daily.
Have a fun Earth Day event and remember water your baby eco systems daily.

My Review of Sheppard (Band)

2014-11-02T13:12:00.000-06:00

I am absolutely stoked about the band named Sheppard. My twin sister and I had the opportunity to listen to this talented indie pop band that was formed in Brisbane in 2009. We took front row seats in over sized cushy brown lounge chairs at Cities97 Studio C. We had stumbled upon their great sound and harmonies while watching Ellen one day. From there on, it was love at first sound. It was October of 2014 when we saw them live. What is really exciting is that this band is independent and was nominated at the ARIA Music Awards of 2013 for Album of the Year, Best Group, Best Independent Release, Best Pop Release, Song of the Year, Producer of the Year and Best Video for the "Let Me Down Easy."

The band members are Amy Sheppard (Lead vocals, harmonica, songwriter), George Sheppard (Lead vocals, keys, songwriter), Jason Bovino (Rhythm guitar, backing vocals, songwriter), Michael Butler (Lead guitar), Emma Sheppard (Bass guitar, backing vocals), and Dean Gordon (Drums). Two of the members could not be there the day the band played live at Studio C. Having less members did not hamper the performance in any way, in fact, this band is the "Real Deal" as they walked in with angelic voices/ acoustic guitar and knocked our socks off.

How many bands that you see live can stroll in and knock it out of the park singing perfect harmonies and do it with the confidence, ease and unadulterated talent? This band is killing it in 26 countries and are the new family genre band of the century. Their debut studio album, Bombs Away, was released on July 11, 2014 and peaked at number two on the ARIA Albums Chart. Their second single, "Geronimo", from February that year, spent three weeks at number one on the ARIA singles Chart, knocking Pharrell Williams' single "Happy" from the top spot after its 12 week run.

George Sheppard shared with all of us Studio C guests, a fun story on how this humble band got started. Amy had asked her brother for help as she was to write a song sprinkled with harmony to a new song she was to compose for a college class. She heard her brother singing and he was the only one home. She loved his harmony and That is how it all started.

Sheppard sang three tunes for us on this day and it included "Bombs Away and Geronimo." Sitting front and center listening to this talented band was a wonderful experience. We were able to get a picture with them as well and they could not have been nicer. The band teased my twin sister and I since we were moving our bodies and heads in unison. Brian Oake told the group he needed to get our names on the cushion chairs since we have been to so many Cities 97, Studio C performances.

I highly recommend that you get acquainted with the sound of this group because they are upbeat, talented and fun to watch.

Billy Dream

2014-06-05T20:44:00.001-05:00

The love of my life
Together in my dream life
I long for you-PAIN

Wordless Wednesday- Loving Spring Time

2014-05-27T22:05:00.001-05:00

Tim Mahoney 'Rocks' Ebenezers' Minneapolis Campus at the Volunteer Appreciation Event

2014-04-27T22:35:00.000-05:00

Tim Mahoney, a well known singer and song writer is a homegrown Minneapolis, Minnesota man. He was discovered on the first season of NBC's 'Voice' and was chosen by Adam Levine. He has been playing great music for over fifteen years. He is an amazing and talented tenor who makes any song sound outstanding. He has been featured on publications such as City Pages and Rolling Stone magazine. He has won countless singing contests and received countless accolades in his music career and is highly respected in the music industry. Check out his website. http://www.timmahoney.com/home

Tim generously accepted to play for the Annual 'Volunteer Appreciation Event' for the Ebenezer- Minneapolis Campus. The Volunteer Appreciation luncheon took place on April 23rd. As Director of Volunteer Services on the Minneapolis Campus, I know that music is an integral part of this annual event. The theme this year was 'Volunteers Rock' which had a double meaning; Rock music and the Rock of Ebenezer. Ebenezer means 'Stone of Help' and our volunteers are the cornerstone of our organization.

Tim Mahoney's uplifting music was icing on the cake at this special event. Tim made the 'Rock' theme come to life with his talent and personality. The luncheon was a sit down event, serving approximately 200 of the volunteers that have given almost 33,000 hours to the residents on our campus. This number reflects having approximately 16 Full Time Employees.

Ebenezer's mission is "to help older adults live more independent, healthful, meaningful and secure lives." Ebenezer provides access throughout Minnesota to a full range of senior housing options, community-based programs and medical care.

Tim showed up in a trendy black leather jacket and dyed blue jeans. His silver guitar glistened throughout the St. Mary's Event Center where the appreciation event was held. Keeping with the theme of 'Volunteers Rock', each table setting had a thoughtfully wrapped inspiration rock, tied with a tag that had Rock and Roll insignia, guitars, and rock and roll stamps. The centerpiece was a colorful pail overlaid with 'You Rock' gel stickers on it. Under the centerpiece was a mirror sprinkled with pastel colored flower petals.

Can I just say, "Tim Mahoney rocked the house!" Strumming on his glitzy silver guitar during and after the luncheon, one could see that the instrument is an extension of himself. This kind, down to earth musician made the volunteers feel extra special. He welcomed Ebenezer volunteers to join him on stage and get their picture taken with him and his famous guitar, which has his name inscribed in black across it.

What do you get when you bring in a talented musician and a room of volunteers? Happy 'Rockin' Dancers. Thanks so much Tim-you made this years' Volunteer Event a true success. You will always be a friend of the Ebenezer organization.

A Review of Saving Mr. Banks

2014-04-05T22:21:00.004-05:00

When my twin sister and I went to view the PG-13 Rated Movie, Saving Mr. Banks, we had no idea how rich the story-line would be. The cast included: Director John Lee Hancock, Emma Thompson, Tom Hanks, Paul Giamatti, Jason Schwartzman, and Bradley Whitford.

Who says our past does not haunt us? As a person with a Master Degree in Counseling & Psychological Services, I so appreciated the way they took us all on a journey into our childhoods. We may say that our past does not affect our current state of being, but that is not true in any form. We may choose to shut it away, but even that behavior gives credence to our past, good or bad.

The movie shows how a dad, Walt Disney, wants to keep a promise to his kids. They beg him to make a Hollywood movie from their favorite book "Mary Poppins". It took him twenty years to bring P.L Traverse, the writer of Mary Poppins to finally come to talk about the prospect. He wants to obtain the rights to take the book to the movie screen.

P.L Traverse is not an easy woman to get along with and that is a nice way of putting it. She is a controlling, unhappy woman. She comes to work with the Hollywood team put there to help write the movie from her script. P.L Traverse seems to badger the team and also dictate her way at each and every turn, reminding them that she may never give over the rights.

Walt try's to sway the tyrannical author into giving over the rights. He wants to keep his promise to his kids. The two weeks he has P.L Traverse there in Los Angeles he does everything in his power to make her see what a gift this movie would be for adults and children. He has her stay in his lovely hotel, gives her many Disney gifts, and treats her like royalty.

You sense the deep wounds that P.L Traverse has endured by the way she reacts to the Hollywood team and by the flash backs she has in the two short weeks she is in Los Angeles. She knows she needs to at least think about giving the rights over to Walt Disney since her money has run out from writing Mary Poppins. She is at a crossroads.

You watch as her childhood memories flood her and she try's so desperately to protect the man who you learn was her father, Mr. Banks. We learn near the end of the movie why she can't let Mr.Banks be portrayed as a mean man. Walt Disney also understands that underneath P.L.Traverse's hard exterior, she is really a scared little child. Her child within comes out in a big way.

Walt promises her as he describes his tough childhood and compares it to hers, why it is essential for him to save Mr. Banks in the movie and have him live eternally in the movie for all to see. Mr. Banks will be the endearing loving father forever more. Together, they will write the script so his charm will live on in the hearts and minds of all ages. This is where the past and present and future can meld together to heal childhood wounds.

Review On My First Colonoscopy

2014-03-24T20:54:00.001-05:00

Dear Friends,

I thought a colonoscopy review could be helpful so here it goes.
I know I was so afraid of having to think of going in at age fifty for my first colonoscopy. I did not do it till just today at age 51. I thought it could be helpful to take you through my experience so you would feel more comfortable and less anxious than I was.

Last night I did the prep at home which many of you have heard about. You drink a solution, about one gallon, all throughout an evening, so you release all the stool in your colon. Let me forewarn you that yes, you have to stay very close to the bathroom. Every ten minutes you drink one cup of this solution. I wrote down on a piece of paper every ten minutes and checked off each time I drank it. It took me about four hours to drink the entire gallon of the solution. It doesn't taste great, but it really did not bother me at all. I drank soda pop during this process. As you are doing this just stay very close to the bathroom. Your doctor will make the referral and then send up a order to your pharmacy for what you need to do step by step.

You take four pills which are a laxative the evening before. I took them and knew that whatever was not out of my colon would surely be gone by the late evening with this laxative. I actually wrote a hub post as I did this entire process. It kept me focused on something other than just drinking and being in the bathroom.

I felt very anxious as most people do about the next morning going in to have this procedure done. I did however, actually sleep. I got in to the endoscopy office for my visit at 9:50 am. They called me back and my heart did flip flops. I am a highly anxious person anyway, so this visit had me awfully nervous. The nurse assistant was amazing and explained to me that the doctor would be in to talk about the procedure and we would fill out paper work. She inserted a IV in so that I could be sedated before the procedure. I want you to know that other than having my two children, I have never had a hospital stay. This IV being put in was nothing. I could hardly feel it. It was just a little prick feeling.

Whew, so far so good, but I was getting a bit freaked out when she put me on the bed and put the blood pressure cup on me and showed me the screen that I could watch my colon procedure on. I was thinking to myself, yeah right, I will just sleep so I don't have to deal with the reality of it. I have to say, this gurney bed with the cover over my body was really comfortable.

The doctor came in and went over instructions on how the procedure would go. He said they would be giving me a sedative and morphine would be flowing through the IV they gave me. I was thinking as he was talking, "do I still have time to run?" I stayed, but in total trepidation as he went through the paper work and told me the things that could go wrong and I needed to sign my signature to say he could go ahead with the procedure. He told me once we were done talking they would put the drugs in the IV and I would get very sleepy and I could choose to watch the procedure on the screen.

All of a sudden just seconds later, I felt really dizzy. I said, "I'm scared, I am really dizzy." They told me that was normal and it was the sedatives and narcotic taking hold. Seconds later, I felt real calm as if nothing could bother me. Earlier when the nurse assistant took my blood pressure, it was extremely high because of my anxiety. Now, I could not even hear the blood pressure machine. The doctor explained every move he made. "Laura, I am putting in the tube right now and we will go all the way through the colon to see what's going on." I can honestly say, the feeling of him putting the tube in did not bother me at all. I hardly felt it.

I can't believe I actually watched the whole entire thing on the screen and asked questions. There were times it was a little uncomfortable but nothing to write home about. The sedatives had me so sleepy and calm. I think it took about 15-20 minutes in total. When the doctor said it's over, I was amazed and exclaimed, "Really?"

The nurse assistant rolled me into recovery which only lasted 30 minutes. They just want to make sure blood pressure and oxygen levels are normal. They did have an oxygen clamp on my forefinger during and after the process.

Then.... My twin sister came to pick me up. I guess I was a bit loopy, but she drove me to a quick Chinese lunch buffet and then home to bed. I had not eaten in 24 hours so I had to eat. I got home and my sister got me all set up in my lovely bedroom where she had our wonderful fury family come sleep and nap with me. My dogs knew that something had been off, so I think they were as relieved and tired as I. The dogs and I slept for 4-5 hours. What a great nap, great smooth procedure, and great news, my colon looked great and there were no polyps. I won't have to go back for ten years.

I hope this post helps you get in for your colonoscopy. It really is a very safe and easy procedure. It could save your life. A screening is easy and prevents a horrid type of cancer. I now know the stories and drama I hear about the colonoscopy procedure is not true. Here I am writing you the very day I had mine done.

Good luck to you and let others know this procedure was not a big deal.

My Twin Sister Will be Ten Years Cancer-Free on St. Patrick's Day-Please Send her to Kegs N Eggs to Celebrate her big Milestone

2014-03-10T23:34:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends

My amazing twin sister is coming up on ten years cancer-free from Lung cancer on St. Patrick's Day. It's an incredible feat in spite of the poor odds she was given. The doctor's gave her a 20-25% chance of surviving the first five years. She has always been a strong woman with her own plan. She continues to inspire me, her friends and family.

In our wonderful city of Minneapolis, MN, a local radio station we regularly listen to is giving away VIP tickets to a full day of St. Patrick's Day fun. They are calling the party 'Kegs & Eggs' and will feature great musical entertainment, good food, and plenty of Irish libations. It will be held at a popular downtown venue called the 'Fine Line Music Cafe.'

My twin sister recently shared that she wanted to do something unique and special for this important mile-stone in her cancer journey. I can't think of anything more fitting than celebrating with our favorite radio station-Cities 97.

She has no idea I'm writing into the radio station with hopes of winning "VIP" tickets to this event. I ask that you please consider sending my sis and I to this wonderful affair. She is so deserving of a big out like this with all she's gone through these last ten years. She is my inspiration and my best friend.

Oh, and by the way, CANCER STINKS!!!!

Cancer Benefit in 2004

One of Linda's many cat scans as a survivor

Here are two links to articles Linda wrote about her cancer journey

http://minnetonkatwin.hubpages.com/hub/Happy-Birthday-Twin-Sister-A touching story she wrote about her and I during her cancer journey. Just a warning: it's a tear jerker.

http://minnetonkatwin.hubpages.com/hub/A-Week-in-the-Life-of-a-Cancer-Survivor-An article Linda wrote that gives readers a glimpse into a week as a cancer survivor.

Thank you for your consideration in giving my twin sister a ten year celebrations she will never forget.

Sincerely,

Laura R. Arne

Snowmageddon Minnesota

2014-02-20T18:07:00.000-06:00

Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr & Snow. Yes, welcome to Minnesnowda. This has been a tough winter for many of us here in the Northland and Minnesota is no different. After this winter, I wonder why the bleep I live here. It is February 20th and we are here once again experiencing a winter blizzard advisory. More school closings scrolling on my TV screen. Ugh!! #SnowMore, Snowmageddon, SnowWay!!! They say thundersnow tomorrow. Yes, you heard me correctly. Thunder snow is when it rains snow and you hear thunder and see lightening.

I will be staying home from work tomorrow, because the new home I live at, the driveway is a nightmare. I literally can't get out of my driveway. The snow plow guy I had at my last home plowed one time here at this new house and said, "I can't do your driveway. I got stuck three times just plowing it this time." Yes, so here I am knowing basically that when we get a heavy snow and my high school son is not here to plow it, I am stuck. I am strong, but you would have to see this driveway before you understand how long and elevated the driveway is. I am thankful for a friends son who has been coming over after work to shovel for me. It still means I am stuck all day till the evening.

We are being told we will get between 8-12 inches of snow by morning. I am so grateful I have such a supportive supervisor. I knew how bad it was going to get, so I asked him if I could work from home. He not only said yes, but he said "be safe." I am sitting in my favorite recliner as I write this enjoying a burning fire blazing before me in my basement den. I look out my window and what do I see? I see snow all over looking at me!

I hope as you look at the pictures and video, you will visualize nicer, warm weather on the horizon for Minnesota. My prayer at this time of year is for all those that have no shelter. Please help them Lord.

Ode to a Frigid Minnesota Winter

2014-01-28T22:37:00.001-06:00

Life is rich, though I am not
I live in Minnie, yep, that's my lot

It's cold as heck here in the North land
dreaming of the tropics, feet in the sand

Don't get me wrong, I treasure my life
but lodged in my nostrils is frozen ice

Scrolling TV screens; students stay home
no leaving your house or disaster you'll roam

Tired of Minnesota making the news
with wind chills below fifty; it's not a rouse

Black ice, winter blues and more...
summertime temps are what we live for...

Written for dVerse Poet's~Open Link Night

A Strangers' Act of Kindness At Christmas Time

2013-12-27T18:09:00.000-06:00

It was Monday, the day before Christmas Eve around 1:00 P.M. in the afternoon. I was thankful I had the ability to take paid time off from work. The hustle and bustle of the season was in full force. My two teenage children and I headed out to Target to shop on our very limited Christmas budget. Many stressed out shoppers were honking their horns and the noise level inside Target was "Holiday High."

Believe it or not, this was my first time out Christmas shopping. It's easy to wait until the last minute when you know you have little funds to work with. Money is tight but I felt the spirit of Christmas all around me. I love the bright twinkling lights around town and the snow as it falls on this Christmas eve, eve. I witnessed families rushing around the store in search for the perfect treasure for their loved ones. I feel at this point in my life, I know the true meaning of Christmas. To me it's not the presents around the tree but those loved ones around the tree and all the blessings that come from having food, clothing and a home.

I knew as a single mother that my gift choices this year had to be carefully thought out. I told my children to show me around the store and pick out their top (three to five) gifts for Christmas. The kids knew the budget was smaller this year, but what they didn't know was I would pay for gifts from two Target gift cards a friend bought for me. I thought to myself how special it would be if I could afford taking them out for a festive lunch afterwards, but knew I just couldn't do it.

My cart was filled with the gifts I needed to pick from. I felt my body tense up as I knew it was "go time." I told my son to go out to the car with his sister and pull up at the front and I'd be out soon. I planned my strategy and took one of the last lanes near the door so I wouldn't be embarrassed if I came up short and had to put some gifts back.

I guesstimated how much money I had on my two Target cards and laid down the items I thought I could pay for, leaving most of them in the cart. The cashier said,"Your fifteen dollars short mam." I put my hand on my chin and let him know I needed to think which gift my daughter wanted most. He restated the balance I needed to make up. I could feel my face turning red and noticed the long line of folks behind me. I prayed I could quickly figure out which gift was less, so people wouldn't get impatient and angry. I dug in my coin purse and saw a whopping fifty cents. I knew I had no money to spare in my bank account because I needed it for rent in a few days.

Taking out one of the gifts for my daughter, I asked the cashier if I had enough to pay for what was left. As he was ready to answer me, I heard the woman behind me say, "sir, I would like to pay the difference. Is this a gift for someone, she asked me?" "Yes, it's a Christmas gift for my daughter." The kind woman says, " I really want to do this for you- please let me buy this gift for your daughter." I answered, "Oh thank you so much but I can't let you do that." She tells me she really wants to do this good deed for me and it would make her Christmas. I could feel a warm rush of love flow through me, and the worry and embarrassment melt away. I knew she was a blessing that God put in my path at just the right time. I thanked her profusely and asked if I could hug her. After giving her a huge embrace, I shared that I was a single mother of two great teenage kids. I couldn't hold back hugging her again and the smile on her face told me we both made each others' Christmas. The cashier was welling up with tears and said, "I've heard about beautiful stories like this but have never personally witnessed it." I was overflowing with love and joy and asked her for her name. "My name is Jana." "Thank you so much Jana, I will make sure to pay it forward as soon as I can."

I looked behind me at the long line of people waiting to pay for their gifts. Instead of them looking impatient and irritated, they now wore big smiles and looks of wonder on their faces. As I finished up my transaction with the cashier, Jana said, "here, do something nice for yourself." She put a $20 dollar bill in my hand. I threw my arms around her and wished her a very Merry Christmas. I took one last look at the long line behind us and noticed people were teary eyed. My eyes were welled up and I was ready to just burst into tears.

I walked out the front door of the store and waited for my son to pick me up. As I poured myself in the car, I couldn't hold back the tears. The children looked at me with confusion and asked what was going on. I shared the touching story of the compassionate stranger, and soon the three of us were blubbering. We were full of gratitude and were reminded of the true meaning of Christmas. I got my wish and then some, I thought to myself. Jana wanted me to do something for myself-what better than spending the money going out to lunch with my kids at their favorite Deli. During lunch we made a heart felt toast to Jana and her wonderful act of kindness.

Stoopininthe Suburbs: Zach Sobiech Clouds Song at Mall of America

2013-12-07T00:12:00.000-06:00

Tonight as I lie in bed, I feel so very moved, grateful and blessed. Last night my twin sister and I were honored to be a part of something so meaningful. We performed in the largest choir in history at the Mall of America in Minnesota.

Zach Sobiech wrote the song "Clouds" before his death. It went viral fast. Zach brought so many people together last night in his honor. The mall was standing room only and packed the house on all four floors of the Mall of America.

This inspiring young man died at the age of 18 from bone cancer. He is the reason we all sang our hearts out last night at the mall. We sang his song "Clouds". My sister and I were on the third floor. Everywhere you turned, people were sobbing, singing, and feeling a part of something so big. The Holy Spirit was ever present and we could feel Holy Ghost Goosebumps.

My twin sister and I held each other as we sang Zach's song in unison with hundreds of others. We were there to honor Zach, but also to celebrate others who have lost the battle for cancer and those that are survivors. My twin sister is a cancer survivor. Here we were helping raise funds for kids cancer. We stood there knowing what a momentous moment in time this was. She could have been gone as the doctors predicted. They gave her a 20-25% of surviving five years. CANCER SUCKS!!

This night will forever stay in my heart and I will remember the powerful, vibrant energy of love that was so thick and palpable. Please watch the video I took from the third floor.

My twin sister and I will never forget this night as long as we live.

Announcing the Launch of Book II in the series of 'Mysterious and Miraculous'

2013-12-03T15:53:00.002-06:00

What an incredible Christmas season this is going to be. Book II of the 'Mysterious and Miraculous' series has just been published.

I am honored to announce that both my twin sister and I have our own stories of the Supernatural, Miraculous and Mysterious in this second book of the series. We are humbled to be among a cast of amazing writers. The book was made possible because of the time and talent of Michael Friedman of Mockingbird Press.
This is one of those captivating books that you can't put down once you've started reading the incredible stories. The book is a great holiday gift because it's rich with meaning and inspiration. The book is filled with true stories that will blow your mind. They are stories of miracles, paranormal, hope and mystery. You will come away feeling inspired and energized.
Can you envision it now: Your reading the book as you sit in your cozy living area on your favorite recliner. You have your warm fleece blanket over your lap as you sip your favorite holiday cocktail. It doesn't get better than this! The book is already available for sale on Legacy Archives Foundation Book Shoppe and it's associated information page is also up and ready to receive visitors. Eventually, when enough books sell, it will become available on hard copy.
One of the biggest reasons I was compelled to contribute my own spiritual story is because of the important cause. 70% of the proceeds of this book will go to 'Support Homeless Veterans' Organization. Captain Mike, our wonderful Editor and Publisher from Mockingbird press has also built in a page that allows active duty veterans of allied forces to get a free copy of each book we produce in PDF format. I hope if you don't buy one of these books for yourself, you will consider buying one for a friend or family member. It's such an honor to be a contributing scribe in this team of exceptional writers, editors, photographers and everyone else who donated their time and talent to this endeavor.

*E-Books can be purchased at
http://storykeepers.weebly.com/book-shoppe.html

Mysterious & Miraculous Book II- I am a scribe in this new edition. Please see my bio.

2013-12-02T23:56:00.001-06:00

http://storykeepers.weebly.com/legacy-scribes--contributors.html

Holiday Volunteering

2013-11-22T10:33:00.001-06:00

"Volunteers make the world go round."Yes, this is my motto, as I believe volunteers do so much good in the world. I have been in the role of Director of Volunteers for over ten years now. I feel rejuvenated about humanity each year since volunteers have given to so many organizations in need. The numbers have sky rocketed with 64.3 reported Americans volunteering through an organization of their choice. Minnesota and the Twin Cities area is one of the top areas of volunteerism. In Minneapolis-St. Paul,the trends look like this: 37% of residents volunteer bringing in 86.5 million total volunteer hours. This is an impressive number by anyone's standards.
During the holidays many feel inspired to help and volunteer. Did you know that organizations are looking to see if you have volunteered? Think about how hiring managers feel when they scan your resume and see you have given back to the community and volunteered. This piece of information goes a long way. Perhaps this holiday season, you could think about a cause you believe in and make the leap. What would be your top cause and how would you go about researching this?
As a Director of Volunteer Services, many of the volunteers I bring on found my organization, Ebenezer on Volunteer Match. Now that you know how to do it, just reach out and volunteer. You will be bringing on smiles and connections to those that are in need. Good luck and know you are making a big impact.
Happy holidays.

Ann's Precious Baby Girl

2013-11-20T12:52:00.000-06:00

The empty chair stood proud and stately in the baby's parlor. The beautiful vintage oak rocking chair reeked with character. The smell of baby powder filled the air. The diaper rack neatly displayed all the needed baby supplies: Cloth and disposable diapers, ointments, safety pins, wet wipes etc. On the wall hung a picture of mom and baby. A framed animal picture hung over a wooden floor that was splashed with bright colors.

Safely tucking baby into her crib, mother heard the doorbell ring. She softly whispered "sweet dreams baby" and shut the door quietly behind her. Ann opened the front door and saw her good friend, Erin. "I've been really worried about you Ann. You haven't been answering your home phone or answering my text's. Is everything alright?"

Erin handed over a pile of mail into her friend’s hands as she entered the front door. "Thanks, you didn't have to do that" she said in a monotone voice. Ann offered her friend a soda or cup of tea. "I'd love a can of diet Pepsi if you have it." The two friends sat in the kitchen nook and began chatting and catching up on things.

Not fifteen minutes into their visit, Ann told Erin she needed to check on the baby. "I'll be right back; I think I hear Courtney fussing." When Ann came back she was cradling her bundle of joy in a pink, hand-made quilt. "I am so sorry Erin, I'll have to end our visit because Courtney hasn't been feeling well and she really needs her sleep." Can you let yourself out while I lay Courtney back down in her crib?" "Oh, of course Ann, I understand, but please, call me soon so we can set up a girls night out." Erin gave Ann a quick hug and started towards the door.

Erin realized she needed the ladies room before the thirty minute drive home. "I really have to stop drinking pop" she said to herself. Thinking it might be a while before seeing Ann and the newborn baby, she turned to peek into the baby's nursery before using the bathroom.

Ann was looking down at her baby in the crib and singing the most beautiful lullaby. "Ann, I just had to come in and give the baby a kiss before I left." Ann didn't say a word and had an empty, glazed look in her eyes. Erin let out a gasp when she leaned down to kiss the baby. There, tucked into the beautiful blanket, was a store bought, baby girl doll.

@ Laura Rogers

dVerse Poets~Slogan About Me

2013-08-31T20:37:00.002-05:00

"Be Who You Are & Let It Shine"- Laura Rogers

Our dVerse Poets prompt is all about slogans and what they mean. Remember the NIKE slogan, "Just Do it"?

Think about what your personal slogan is and what it would say. I chose: "Be Who You Are & Let it Shine."
Let me explain why I wrote this slogan and what it Say's about me. At my age, I have learned a lot. Some from joyful moments and many things from painful experiences.

My philosophy is to be yourself. If people don't like you, well then it's there problem. The older I get, the more I come into myself and who I really am. I am not trying to please others like I did when I was younger. I feel blessed in my life. I am surrounded by only friends that support me and love me for who I am. I had to learn the hard way about who my true friends really were? It takes too much energy to be who others want you to be and it is not healthy.

The confidence I have in myself at this age, lets me even be snarky at times. I used to be so careful to say the right things, not offend anyone, be the perfect person. Those days are gone and it is not a bad thing. I think I grew up and realized that we can't please everyone, so you may as well just shine on others who you really are.

I am blessed and feel the important things in my life are my creator, my family and friends and of course my health. Life is great and I am so grateful for all that I have. So, I guess to be true to oneself is a way of life for me.

I hope you all feel blessed like I do, and let your light shine and be who you really are. God made each of us different for a reason.

Life is about transition

2013-07-28T13:27:00.001-05:00

Hi Wonderful Blogger Buds,
Today I sit at my kitchen table looking out at nature for the last weekend at my home. Yes, life is all about joy, pain, transition. Change in life is inevitable. I think change is something that I have learned to embrace since I have had my fair share of it. Change can be good, it's all in your attitude. I guess you could call me Queen of Transition. OK, perhaps I am getting a little full of myself. Please do forgive me.

I have lived in this single family home in the western suburbs since October of 1999. Back then, I was a married woman with two amazing children. My husband B and I separated in 2002. It was my decision tough, albeit the right decision. My lovely children and I have lived here the entire time. This house has been the one consistent in their life all these years. Now, we have to say goodbye.

My son J is taking it the hardest as he made his very best friend here in the cul de sac on Halloween 1999. I will never forget knocking on the door on Halloween and the door opening to an excited mom. "Are you the new neighbors we have heard about?" My husband B and I explained we had just moved in. The mother who opened the door I now consider a very good friend and truly an amazing human being. We actually dubbed her "The Perfect Mom." She called out to her son K who then hid behind her as she introduced him to the new boy next door. That memory feels like it was just yesterday. Ummmmmmm, it has been such an honor living in this charming neighborhood. Thanks be to God.

I am feeling extreme gratitude for being a single mom all these years and praising God he had us living so close to so many loving, caring and fun neighbors. Thankfully, due to God keeping his eye on us, we had almost signed the dotted line for a home out near Lake Minnetonka, 20 minutes from the house and the neighbors we have always known. After the owner jacking me around on the price of the home and continually changing important issues, I graciously declined for our families highest good.

Moving forward trepidaciously, I fell upon a home that was down the street about one mile and decided to take a look. I had called for a showing and my identical twin sister who lives with my kids and I said, don't bother as the price is too high. I reminded her why all my best buds over the years have called me Norma Rae. I appealed to her sense of challenge and retorted "I will talk them down and the home is right down the street. The kids will literally be in the same neighborhood and the pain won't be as excruciating." I think that got to her Auntie Mamma heart and she agreed we should go take a look see. She is however, the golden sister who has helped raise my kids over the last ten years.

My sister L had been diagnosed with lung cancer and never smoked, back in 2004, the same year my divorce was final. God has such a funny sense of humor. We invited her in to live with us and took care of her while she recovered from lung surgery. They took out her right middle lobe and they found she had some spread in her trachea and bronchi lymph nodes. She then went through very intense chemotherapy and radiation. Here we are ten years later happy as the Cleavers. She needed the kids and I, I needed her, and we financially could do things for the kids I could never have done alone as a single mom. OK, onto the meat of my story.

I saw a for sale sign the day before I almost signed off on the other home. Guess what, we were one of the first people to see it. It was love at first viewing. It was everything we had hoped for and we could stay in our neighborhood. Yes, J would still be sad since he could not just walk right next door and knock on the S door like he has since he was a toddler, but hey, we were so close. The kids could literally ride their bike on the trail and be at our new home in a matter of minutes. The other sell to the kids, the house was even closer to the mall. Yes!!!

Well, we signed on the dotted line and move in next month before school starts. Ya know, you just can't make this stuff up. All of us are so happy knowing we are staying close to the great neighbors that inspired this blog in the first place. We will continue to stoop it, although it may be"Stoopin it on a deck." Here's to new beginnings. CHEERS!!! Come "stoop it" with us at our new abode.

Home In Minnetonka since 1999

New Home come August 1

Alchemy- Dverse Poets

2013-06-11T21:01:00.002-05:00

Mission moving forward
Powered pure intention
Prayer, long, hard, arduous

Fear not, But deliver us from evil
Let only pure love lie within
Streaming
Beaming,
Gleaming throughout humanity
Then....

Tortured souls vacuum up low consciousness
Spitting stank, vermin
Loud wales

Down

Down

Down

Perdition....Till

Upward raised
Quantum leap
Energy transformed
Alchemy's playground
Dross to gold
Amalgamated to Higher God Consciousness
Peace

Pure, Collective Unity, Light

Laura Rogers Arne