Born Free

It seems like this year the holiday season is starting earlier than ever as I was shocked to see Christmas decorations up even before Halloween.

It's almost as if we're skipping Thanksgiving. But this week when you're celebrating with your family, remember to give thanks for your FREEDOM.

It's something we Americans take for granted everyday; yet, it's a precious gift that people from other countries have died for.

November 9th was the 21st anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall. I was living in Germany at the time and visited Berlin shortly before the wall fell. Many people had already escaped to West Berlin and I'll never forget the joy on their faces in knowing that they were finally free.

Now, what does that have to do with Kid Rock?

While I can't say that I'm a fan of all his songs, this one just makes me want to jump up and dance! If you're a Boomer like me, who loved to go to concerts in the '60s and hates most of the new music; just listen to this song and you'll know what I mean!! It's such a feel good song.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bu3rsha1ZtI

Happy Thanksgiving!!

Give Thanks!

At a time when there are so many things wrong with our economy, when every day we hear of more doom and gloom with companies closing and more layoffs, we still have much to be thankful for. Just the fact that 3 weeks ago today we elected a new president and that transition will be made in a peaceful manner is a feat never accomplished in many countries.

In the midst of rushing to prepare your Thanksgiving dinner, please take a few minutes to think of all you personally are grateful for -- family, friends, health, a job, your home. Personally, I feel very blessed to be part of a large extended family with 8 brothers and sisters, many other relatives and wonderful friends scattered across the nation and abroad, good health, medical insurance and a pension. One of my traditions for Thanksgiving Dinner is that I love to start the meal by going around the dinner table and having each person say what they are grateful for. Try it --- some of the answers may surprise you.

Since we live in such a highly mobile society, with family scattered throughout the country, many of you might be alone for the Holiday -- some for the first time. If that's the case, then there's several options to keep you busy. Plan a Thanksgiving dinner party and invite all your single friends; check out programs at nearby churches or senior centers as they always have room for one more or volunteer. Live near Denver, then volunteer to serve dinner to the homeless at the Denver Rescue Mission.

Whatever your plans are, I wish you a joyous and safe start to the Holiday Season!
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Capital Cooking

If cooking is your hobby, then I'd love for you to check out the blog link below for the Capital Cooking Show. My niece Lauren DeSantis, who's being hailed as the next Rachel Ray, is the host and producer of the show currently being shown in 15 states on Public Access TV. There's a brief YouTube video at that link and it's really cool because my sister Ginny, her mom, was interviewed too. Lauren had a booth at the recent Metropolitan Cooking and Entertaining Show where she demo'ed her cooking techniques right alongside Paula Deen! Cooking is a fun, creative hobby to pursue in retirement -- so, if you have the time, try out some new recipes for your Thanksgiving Feast!
http://capitalcookingshow.blogspot.com/2008/11/check-out-my-interview-by-todd-wiggins.html