by Sharon | Dec 14, 2015
Lately I’ve Been Watching A Variety Of Christmas Movies
The unfortunate thing is that I don’t remember titles . . . or paid much attention to them.
After a while the themes or story lines seems to blend together . . .
I do like the movies that have to do with families. There was one where a young woman was to meet her fiance’s parents by spending Christmas with them. He had a business appointment and would meet her there.
Well, it so happened that the last name was the same as the last time of a man she met on the plane . . . her fiance’s name was Will and the man’s brother was Billy . . . but it seemed close enough for her and she joined the man to meet his parents . . . and they were having a lovely time . . .
Until Billy showed up . . . and Will the fiance called wondering where she was . . .
These mix up stories are always wonderful . . . yet embarrassing . . . and real heart breakers . . . Yet they’re always eye-openers when it comes to affairs of the heart . . . And the connection we make with others . . .
Movies May Have One Central Message . . .
But we do find so much more that is meaningful to us.
Yes, it is very subjective. It’s about finding common ground for friendship and love relationships . . . without that there is nothing . . . or to have shared interests in the movie I mentioned, but with differing attitudes.
In this movie, the woman owned an antique shop that was opened by her father . . . he since passed and it was left to her . . .
The fiance was a real estate big wig and he wanted to sell the shop to a high bidder . . .
The man on the plane appreciated old things and rebuilt an old clock or music box for his grandfather . . . which was lost in the baggage claim . . . and the woman lost her luggage . . .
Yes, they had a bit of a conflict at the “lost luggage” counter . . .
But besides their differences . . .
It is a lovely movie . . . one I’d watch again and would recommend to you, if only I could remember the title . . .
The message I received from this movie may be entirely different from the one you’d receive which makes it quite interesting and an excellent movie that relates to a wider audience.
It’s very much a romance than a love story . . .
I don’t want to give the ending away, but I may have let the cat out of bag unintentionally . . .
It’s difficult explaining something without giving too much away . . .
Generally, Christmas Movies Are Feel Good Movies
There is usually something for everyone.
I know the classics that everyone watches during Christmas . . . “A Christmas Carol”, “It’s A Wonderful Life” and there are probably a dozen or more others you may enjoy and watch each and every year without fail.
I like Dicken’s “A Christmas Carol” and I’ve found many remakes of the basic theme run through them. The message is always the same and it’s delightful to acknowledge it has withstood the “test of time.”
There are funny movies . . . and heart break movies . . . and some with a bit of nostalgia and even melancholy thrown in . . . there are various mixes that make for Christmas entertainment.
It is wonderful to live in a time where movies are made to capture a wide audience either on the wide screen of movies in theaters or small screen for home entertainment.
They also reach all age groups . . . which is always fun for family entertainment.
Christmas Is Family Time
There’s a lot of focus on Santa and gifts.
And Black Friday and getting a head start on gift buying.
For me, the gifts are nice, but it’s family quality time. That’s what I remember the most . . . not really the gifts . . . but those quiet moments when we’re all together . . . maybe lost in our own thoughts or talking quietly . . .
I suppose we all have our own memories which may be very different from mine . . . but a quiet walk or sitting by the fireplace quietly is very special to me . . . it doesn’t have to be grand, just knowing you’re safe and warm, wrapped up in the love of your family.
Have a Very Merry Christmas!
Sharon
by Sharon | Dec 8, 2015
Do You Feel It?
You may be all wrapped up with Christmas shopping, decorating and preparations.
Yes it will be here before you know it!
I’m changing some websites. I’ve eliminated one and plan to eliminate another one and perhaps a third one. It’s interesting how sometimes we have to let go.
This refers to many things besides websites, but that’s been a major concern of mine over the past several months. And the time has come for me to do it.
You know, I feel really good about the website I eliminated. And I know letting go of a second and perhaps a third will be a major weight off my shoulders.
The same is true of letting go of those things that are weighing on you. I’m not saying it is going to be easy, but once you decide to do it, you’ll feel so very much better.
This applies to letting go of people, the past and even stuff. As a wise friend of mine said, “It’s only stuff.” Well, I had a sentimental attachment to it . . . or thought I should. But in reality, it is only stuff.
I Built A New Website
Here I’m all happy about getting rid of websites and I built a new one.
I am a puzzle I can’t figure out most of the time. I’m been thinking about having a Christmas website for quite some time. You’d probably think I’d do Halloween. I thought so too, but Christmas seems more exciting to me.
If you want to check it out: http://christmasgoround.com
It’s a year round Christmas website. This is why I’m getting rid of the other websites. I lost interest in them and I can do more with Christmas Go Round than I can with them.
I’ve decided I’m more of a kitchen junk drawer type of blogger than a niche one. Over time it doesn’t work for me. I lose interest or run out of things to talk about. But with a junk drawer . . . there’s lots to talk about and to share.
There’s always an interesting “find” that was pushed back — way back in the back of the drawer — waiting to be rediscovered.
Tomorrow I Have A Webinar Boot Camp
It’s going to run a few hours and tell us about the best way to blog and those blogs that make it and those that don’t.
I can almost hear you say, “You should have waited until you attended the webinar before delving into a new website.”
Yes that did cross my mind, but I went for it . . . tis the season and all that. So, technically, instead of a niche, I have a theme.
I’m beginning to think I like having a theme instead of a niche. But I’ll see what I learn from this webinar.
Do you believe this webinar had a price in dollars to pay for attendance? They’re usually free with a “buy to learn more” component. I think I like paying to get the information and my questions answers than listening to a “pitch” and then getting the real information.
I guess it is all a matter of perspective . . . and the major changes I’m feeling I need to do.
Watching Movies Make Me Think
I don’t believe we choose movies by accident.
There were two about making major changes in the main character’s life. One was trying to hold on to a failing business when she had a passion for something else. The other was delving into a job to avoid “going home.” This involved dealing with the loss of her mother and then her best friend. She didn’t really know her father, but he was there all the time. So, she did go home and faced her grieving and developing a relationship with her father. It has an interesting twist, but just given those elements, it was an interesting story.
And then, there’s the first one of doing something that she lost interest in doing. This one truly hit home. And the reason for delving into a new website and the long awaited decision to let go of what wasn’t working for me.
Change in the only constant in our lives. We sometimes get blindsided by having to do it, but in the end it turns out for the better. Just as losing my content here when I moved the hosting of this website.
More Change May Be In Store For TwoCansOnAString.com
This will have to do with tomorrow’s webinar.
I don’t know if you’ve noticed it or not, but the more I learn, the less I really know. Seems strange on one level and makes perfect sense on another.
I definitely won’t be letting go of TwoCansOnAString.com, but I may be letting go of my current direction. I don’t believe it is working. I can always have my random thoughts, but maybe I need a theme. Yes, the kitchen junk drawer concept works for me, but maybe I do need something that means something to you.
Yes, it is my blog, but I need you to read it and be a loyal follower of this website. I need to give you what you want to see regularly. Giving you those treasures pushed back in the drawer.
And there may be more I need to let go of in order to see things clearly. Just go through the clutter of my mind and do a major cleaning.
Clarity is so very important. Until we have clarity, it’s difficult to make informed decisions.
You may be fortunate and not feel the need for change. It is very likely you had to move furniture around to make room for your Christmas tree. And, perhaps, for some of your decorations.
Change Is Inevitable
No matter the season or the reason.
I noticed a neighbor bought a new car. Not something I’m in the market for right now.
I want to write, but I also need people to read my blogs. I need to give value than just my rambling thoughts. Yet, this is basically food for thought for those rare souls who have been wrestling with changes in their own life.
It’s nice to know you’re not alone.
Blogging is my passion . . .
May each day be bright and productive,
Sharon
by Sharon | Dec 5, 2015
So You Think This Is Going To Be About Sadness . . . Wrong!!!
I’m talking about hope.
With a whole lot of truth thrown in. You see, whenever you think of loved ones who have passed, they’re right here with you. It could be a physical touch or a sound in another room.
These are all reminders of those we loved and the connection is forever there.
We can grieve, but we’re also healing when we know there is no loss . . . at least in another form. Yes, our loved ones aren’t here to share that secret family recipe, but they are always present.
Making Me Rethink My Priorities
I was thinking of not putting up my Christmas tree this year.
Yet, I know how much a tree is a family tradition. It may not mean a lot to me, but it means everything to them.
So, Christmas and other holidays aren’t about you or me, but those who have influenced us and are now watching over us. This gives me a different perspective.
By putting forth the effort . . . just as they did for you . . . in the end will be the greatest gift you can give them . . . and a major gift to yourself. In honoring them and validating them, you’re benefiting from it as well.
Sure you have to put forth the effort . . . but remember how many times they put forth the effort for you when they didn’t feel like it.
Stop to think for a moment of all the sacrifices they’ve made for you.
You May Not Believe In The After Life
But it does exist.
You feel it. You think it. You don’t have to believe it to make it true.
We’re visited in dreams. We’ve felt that familiar touch of having your hair brushed from your forehead, ever so gently and lovingly. There are also playful tugging of your hair or a squeezed cheek . . . you instantly think of a loved one who has passed.
Yes, we do think of them more around the holidays. Yes, they are still around, watching us and protecting us.
They’re not judging. They want us to live our lives, to love, have joy and happiness. Not guilt, grief and sadness. Let go of all the what ifs, if onlys and should haves . . . it does no good. Lift that burden from your mind and shoulders this holiday season.
Honor your memories and celebrate the good times you had. Love is never=ending.
Just think about this . . . honestly . . . think of the strange or unusual things that have happened . . . coincidences . . . a sound or fragrance . . . a dream . . . something that reminded you of someone . . .
The list could go on and on, but this is your moment to remember and reconnect within yourself . . .
You may think I’m nuts . . . that’s fine . . . but with a few minutes of searching your memory of any unusual event . . . you’ll know . . .
Holidays Are To Be Celebrated
Over the years I’ve met many people who are extremely sad during the holidays.
They dwell on the loss of a loved one or a divorce or other form of break-up.
Those who have walked through their pain, loss and sadness have created holidays that suit them. Many people are alone . . . they are joyous and carefree . . . they made their holidays joyous. It’s not easy, but worth the effort.
It’s like having a make-over.
You’re making over the holidays. You’re creating new traditions that suit you and make you happy. You may be celebrating it alone, but you’re having a good time without expectations or obligations.
It’s a freedom I hear echoed by many. You’re free to eat what you want . . . relax and enjoy yourself however you wish.
Many don’t have a big meal. They break it up in small courses. Some begin with dessert . . . wouldn’t that be lovely!!! Life is truly grand without rules.
You can relax with a good book, watch the fire in the fireplace, drink a hot beverage, take a walk or stay in your pajamas all day.
It’s your new tradition of doing what pleases you . . .
And it can change from year to year. You can keep some traditions, but you can create new ones . . . just for you.
No matter how you celebrate this Christmas, make it meaningful and worthwhile for you . . . and your family.
I wish you much happiness this Christmas and throughout the New Year.
Sharon
by Sharon | Nov 2, 2015
Feeling A Bit Lost After Halloween
It’s interesting how the let down of one holiday event drives one forward to another holiday.
I have been anticipating Thanksgiving prior to the Halloween celebration. Then, once Halloween arrived, I was at a loss to proceed forward to Thanksgiving.
I believe the weather has a lot to do with it. We’ve been experiencing warm days — still summer, early fall type of forecasts. The rain, then the wind and the heat . . . now the forecast of rain . . .
I can get into the rain. It seems appropriate for the onset of the Thanksgiving season.
Strange How Thanksgiving Is A Transition Holiday
We’re bombarded with Christmas ads . . . Thanksgiving seems to be the forgotten holiday.
I do enjoy Thanksgiving. It’s a time of reflection for me. A time to get together with family and be very grateful for the love, caring and sharing the holiday provides.
I reflect on all holidays, actually. Thanksgiving seems to have this quality built-in. Yet, it seems to have become a “transition” holiday. A prelude of sorts for Christmas.
In my family, Thanksgiving was celebrated as a major holiday. We would get together for either Thanksgiving or Christmas, rarely both. It seemed to always coincide with work schedules.
This may be true today and also flight schedules and various other factors. The media puts much more focus upon Christmas . . . and all the songs associated with the holiday . . . and the sense that one must be home for Christmas.
For me, the weather makes a big difference in how I feel about the holiday season.
If we can get some rain and maintain colder temperatures, then I’m good to go.
I remember having a warm Thanksgiving and Christmas . . . it just didn’t seem the same. I feel myself with this lackluster feeling.
We did celebrate as usual, but something was entirely different within me. It may have been better for us to celebrate in another location where the temperature was a bit or quite a bit colder.
I don’t know if this is common for most people. Perhaps they just flow with it. I’m happy for them. I need a complete package to completely the embrace the holiday.
My Local Market Has A Sign On The Door “The Turkeys Are Coming”.
It’s our notice to reserve our Thanksgiving turkey.
But, the sign doesn’t amuse me as it once did. Maybe it’s no big deal. Or the weather has me in a funk.
I dislike it when I get this way. I ran an errand and stopped at the park to reflect for awhile. I thought the change of scenery would give me a more positive perspective.
I thought it would be good to get out in nature and perhaps among the population and see if I could catch some of that holiday enthusiasm.
Nope, not there.
Even the clerks in the various stores don’t have that holiday spirit.
Weather Has Much To Do With How We Feel
There has been scientific research that has proven this fact.
I don’t know if they’ve studied weather we’re experiencing with the specific anticipation of a holiday season. I’m doing my own unofficial research and I’ve found sales were down for Halloween and during this transition period before Christmas the stores are relatively empty.
Unofficially, in my area, others are feeling the same lack of enthusiasm as I am.
People involved in various sports and the fans are into their team games. This seems to bridge the gap.
For me when the weather becomes a bit cooler, I’ll get into my stride and get the holiday spirit going full steam ahead.
Thanks for stopping by. Please leave me a comment to let me know your thoughts about the weather and the holidays and whether it affects you or not.
Until next time,
Sharon
by Sharon | Jul 5, 2015
There are always holidays anticipated . . . and gone . . . What’s next?
Nothing more in July, then nothing in August . . . unless Back to School is a major concern on your radar and To Do List . . . maybe a vacation is in the works . . . maybe a camping trip or visiting friends and family . . . Labor Day in September . . . Columbus Day in October and of course, Halloween . . . is it too early to go with Halloween? Why am I asking, I’ve been putting in all kinds of Halloween or fall related stuff in here. It does take time to get some projects completed in anticipation of Halloween or any special holiday to you. Some people anticipate Christmas all year round . . . this is their thing . . . just as with any other holiday we find of special significance to us. Some people who find the 4th of July special may be right now planning for next year’s 4th of July bash.
Diva has something to say about the 4th of July:
After the 3 A.M. wake-up call yesterday. The day went pretty normally except for the goodies cooking on the BBQ. I was in great aromas heaven. By the time the boom-booms started up again I was tired and was getting some well deserved nap time. I was right next to Mom the whole time and she told me everything was all right and I was safe and I could rest . . . so I did. I would look to make sure Mom was still there. She was busy working on something, so if she wasn’t concerned, I didn’t need to be either. So I slept while Mom was in charge. All I can say is that the 4th of July is a great day for America. I am an American, too. I was born right here in the good ol’ USA. It’s all about Independence and America’s birthday. I learned about birthdays with my first one just a while back. I got a couple of new toys for my birthday that had napping time with me. So with the great 4th of July celebration, I learned about a new holiday. The best part is Mom and I celebrated it together. If it’s a holiday or just any ol’ day, I’m happy to be with my Mom . . . . and I know she loves being with me . . . My little lamb has a squeaky inside that needs to be squeaked . . .
Maybe I should have changed the caption to read: Did I hear someone mention Halloween?
I suppose it is never too early to work on different craft ideas or to begin thinking about Halloween costumes. That is a big deal. You do need to have a good idea early what you want before you get all confused by the variety of costumes.
Depending upon the weather where you live, warmth and comfort are major factors besides being that something you want to be or your children want to be. I remember as a kid wanting to be comfortable. I didn’t like wearing a mask. I wasn’t too fond of having my head and face covered. Wearing make-up was better than wearing a mask. I liked to be able to see where I was going and I didn’t want to trip on my costume . . . especially going up and down steps. These are important things to think about with your costume selection. Now, if you’re just going to a party and not going trick-or-treating then your selection may be completely different. Sometimes it is fun to get your friends to dress up like you and do some song and dance routine. The Roaring ’20’s flapper costumes are great fun and the hair and make-up you can do. Then you can learn to dance the Charleston and everyone will be joining in the fun, too. I wonder if there are some costumes for that . . . When you get an idea, you have to act on it quickly before it spreads and there are no costumes available.
Well, here are some ideas that you have plenty of time to work out. It’s important to get the right accessories. Definitely food for thought that may lead you in a completely different direction.
Thanks for stopping by!
