That special moment

It happens
that event, little glimpse, small encounter

and it haunts you... haunts in a good way

The story,  true story

Breakfast at the Crystal Palace is a real treat. An amazing buffet of delights
From our table I could see a little family settling in for their meal.  They looked very "refined" as my mother would have described them.   The father was wearing his large college ring, he was tan and well dressed. Mother with her long blond hair and also a very lovely ring ( I could only see her left hand ) and her back was toward me.   But, it was their daughter that caught my eye.  She was challenged. I  use that word when I see that someone is struggling with a physical or emotional or other problem.  They have dignity.  They deserve respect. 

She was so excited when Pooh bear came by and again when Tigger came and she stood up and had her picture taken with Dad and then with Mom and the characters.  So many little ones are thrilled to see these characters and this little gal was thrilled too. 
( We also saw some grown adults that would not leave until Tigger came by and signed their autograph book and did pictures )

My eyes were swimming.  They are swimming now.   I love to see sweet innocence and hope and pray that parents and grandparents will help to  nurture that  with love.

As we were ready to leave, I had to go over to their table.  I sat beside the mother and told her how I was  happy to see the joy in her daughter.  She smiled and as her daughter moved closer to her, she told her that I was happy for her. 
When emotion hits, it is hard to carry on much of a conversation...later I thought of many things I would like to have shared.
Her mother simply said that she has had some difficult times.
She is 9 years old.
Mom  thanked me for stopping and the Dad turned and told me to have a good day.




What triggered the emotion?
The joy..the innocence ... family together
or because 
There is no father in pictures of me growing up
Maybe all of the above...


This is not a Hallmark movie
This is not a any  movie

This is real life !





I live a blessed life
I am Thankful 

Million dollar hug

Well, it is not a secret that May is my birthday month.

It is not a secret that I had a great week celebrating.

Also, there is more celebrating to come.

But, tonight was special.
The Olive Garden gives you a free dessert to celebrate your birthday 

( yes, I know some folks don't like getting those promotional emails, but this one, I am ok with ) 

Take a peek 

Not a difficult choice...When at an Italian restaurant, order an Italian dessert.  Made fresh and served with chocolate and berry sauces. 

Here is my story.

Our corner table was just in front of the doorway to a large private dining room.  It was set up for a party.  Soon a few people arrived with balloons and packages and a dancing little girl in a white party dress.  Then a few more guests arrived...maybe Grandma and Grandpa...Uncle... A room full of happy.
After finishing as much of the Zeppoli as I had room for, I decided to wish that little gal a Happy Birthday.

So, I moved  around the corner and though the room was full of conversation, they paused as I entered to say


"Looking for the birthday girl,
It is my birthday too "

They all were happy and cheered Happy Birthday greetings to me

As I started to slip around the table I told them
"I am not going to ask you how old I am "
they laughed

Stopping close to the birthday girl I said. 

"But I know how old you are ! "
I handed her a $5.   ( yes, it was her 5th birthday )

Someone said... what do you say?
of course she said, with a big smile  Thank you !  

Someone said... give her a hug 
she got up off her chair, and she did

That was when something triggered in my heart
      ( coming on right now, too ) 
As I felt those little arms around me  I said
"I have a little granddaughter in Minnesota and I can't hug her"

Had to make a quick exit...with thank yous and smiles abounding. 




I had no idea I would be so blessed by that moment
So thankful for little ideas that pop into my head 
I live an exciting life