Do You Have A Teddy Bear Story To Share?

I never knew there was a National Teddy Bear Day, did you? Well, it’s today which means I have to write about it! Because I still have my original Teddy Bear – aptly named Teddy – who looks all of his age plus a few decades. Yes, he has been loved that much over the years! Then, I have his sibling named Tedriana. Tedriana was made with much love by my Mom who decided one year to make my sister and me matching teddy bears as Christmas gifts. I have to ask my sister if she still has hers!

There’s something quite charming about a Teddy Bear, don’t you think? While mine doesn’t look very pretty anymore, as he’s lost all of his hair, I don’t care. He’s very special to me and I can’t get rid of him. I don’t sleep with him anymore (obviously), but I will confess that he holds a special place in my heart and if need be, I would hold him for comfort. So far, I’ve been able to resist, but knowing he’s there is helpful.

What is it about a Teddy Bear? Is he part of the comfort of childhood? Was Teddy the friend when you were younger whom you trusted to tell your secrets to? Who was always ready with a hug to calm you? Did you even have a Teddy? Or was your comfort stuffed plush a different animal or a precious blankie?

Come on…spill your secrets to me, please! Don’t be shy…I’m sure your Teddy or Tedriana would love the notoriety on this special day!

Shine On!

xo

Home Is The Nest You Make Yourself

I love the quote:  Home is where the heart is because it’s simple and direct.  Home is anywhere you find yourself comfortably surrounded by love.  Be it a hovel, an old drafty farmhouse, a small nest or a McMansion.  It’s home because your loved ones are with you.

It’s about being together and being able to be YOU with all of your goodness, your quirks and your insecurities, knowing you are loved for who you are.  Home is the comfort in being accepted for yourself.  Home is knowing you are safe in being vulnerable there.  Home is knowing there are arms to hold you in a strong hug with support and kindness, gentle kisses and soothing words.

There’s no place like home dear friends.  May you remember with gratitude the home and loved ones with whom you share your life.  No matter where you travel, near or far, may you always have a home filled with love and kindness.

Shine On!

xo

 

 

Simon’s Cat Helps, Does Yours?

Oh goodness gracious, are you a cat owner, or better referred to as owned by a cat?  As I was trying to write this morning, the video below was very similar to my experience.  Tigger, our mischevious almost one year old kitten, decided to help me and we battled like Simon did!  Of course, I giggled more than Simon, especially after seeing that his experience was much like my own.

Cats are funny creatures, but surely mine would say the same about her humans.  I guess this is why Simon’s Cat always gives me a much needed giggle.  So, I thought I’d pass it along to you today!

Take a few moments today to bond with your loved ones, both human and otherwise.  We are all a part of this Universe and family is so important.  Be kinder than necessary.  Be more patient than you normally are.  Be more present than ever.  Now’s the time.  Fill your day, your life with love.

Shine On!

xo

Click here to watch Simon’s Cat in Cat and Mouse!

Happiness is a Warm Puppy

― Charles M. Schulz

For Michelle’s Wednesday Pet Photo Challenge, I had to show you my friend SAngel ~ this photo just makes me happy on so many levels.  Perhaps it is the bliss of the puppy held lovingly, perhaps it is the love between 2 sweet souls, perhaps it is simply the happiness that comes in loving and holding a warm puppy.

Whatever it is, please enjoy some fur-therapy!

Shine On!

xo

http://hopethehappyhugger.wordpress.com/2013/10/08/michelles-weekly-pet-challenge-round-up-for-week-round-up-and-start-of-new-week/

You’re the Beary Best!

Teddy has been with me since I was about 2 years old when my Aunt Martha supposedly gave him to me.  He is worn and quite fur-less now since he’s been held for so many years.  He was a staple in my bed throughout my childhood.  Teddy protected me, comforted me and held me as I cried.  He is stained now, right down to the fabric of his being from so many years of comforting my tears.  He now wears a baby blue sweater to keep him warm since his fur is gone.  On his sweater is a sparkly white snowflake which is as unique as he is.

If Teddy could talk, he still wouldn’t repeat all of the secrets he knows.  He is just a comforting soul ~ silent witness ~ to a young girl’s childhood.

Teddy still sits at the end of my bed on my hope chest.  A silent protector who no longer needs to stand vigil, but simply be the comforting reminder of love.  Most definitely he has seen better days, but since he’s only seen by my family, he remains at the end of our bed.

I will admit that occasionally when I see him, I do still pick him up to give him a hug.  His comfort is still felt by my heart and as always, is greatly appreciated.

Do you have a special childhood friend?

Shine On!

xo

Daily Prompt: Prized Possession Describe an item you were incredibly attached to as a child. What became of it?

http://dailypost.wordpress.com/2013/04/02/daily-prompt-prized-possession/

Inspirational Sunday ~ Joy Jars

Meet Jessie Rees ~ Founder of JoyJars

Have you ever met an Earth Angel?  A person who thinks about others ~ A person who radiates JOY and LOVE into the lives of all whom she touches with her special spirit?  Well, I found one and I just wanted to share her inspiring story with you.  Meet Jessie Rees who’s the 12 year old founder of JoyJars.  Her story will inspire you to look around your world and to make it better than when you arrived.  Please take a moment to be inspired…this is Jessie’s story, her website and her foundation!

Shine On!

NEGU ~ NEVER EVER GIVE UP!

xo

https://www.facebook.com/JessieReesFoundation#!/JessieReesFoundation

http://www.negu.org/