Awww! Thanks for the shout out MaryJane! We (My cousin, Old Saint Nick, and yours truly) gave each child a tiny (2″ liner size pot) living Christmas tree (Monterey Cypress [Cupressus macrocarpa]) along with a (modern Fuji film’s version of the “Polaroid”) photo taken with Santa. We had over 100 kids, big and little, and their parents and grandparents come to see us and it was a huge success. We agreed that in over 45 years of working together (I was 12 years old the day our family’s retail plant nursery opened and he was my boss then as now…) at Sunshine Gardens in Encinitas, CA (when we are not working at the North Pole of course) this was the best time we ever had. Best time together. Best time at work. Best time of our lives. I was flower girl in his wedding and today, he and his real Mrs., celebrate 48 years of marriage. To quote Santa’s sainted uncle Ern, “Life Is Good”.

Prayers go out to the parents who lost children today and for the entire community of Sandy Hook.
Laurie

You always think these things happen somewhere else; shocking to have it happen in your own backyard. The day started out just like any other day for most of us and in a blink of an eye, nothing will ever be the same again. People went about their normal routines, put their kids on the school bus or dropped them off at school and went about their day, only some of these parents’ day ended tragically. I just cannot comprehend what goes through an individual’s mind to make them carry out such a horrific massacre. Loving thoughts being sent to my neighbors in Sandy Hook.

Nicole, our hearts and prayers are with your community. Been praying for strength, wisdom, faith, and peace. Love to you all!

I dont even have the words to type- I am empty inside. I am aching. Heartbroken, and stunned. All I can do is PRAY.

It is such a heartbreaking thing! My heart hurts and I cry!
But I’m thankful for the families who are still able to be with their loved ones and for all of those who were there to help, to share, an to care.
PRAYING FOR ALL WHO ARE SUFFERING!!!!
Nicole, I’m so thankful you and your family are together. If I know YOU at all, you will be one of the great supporters for those who are hurting!
PRAYING FOR YOU!
GOD BLESS YOU!
CJ

Terri– This is such a really cool project that you did. Congratulations!!

Brought back many memories of my earlier life as a doula. It is LOTS of work, but so worthy. I’m still close to all those families after 30 years! Treasure those memories.

The older we get, the more we forget how much chaos and work having an infant, especially when there are other young children present. Exhausting every single day! Tis is a good badge to offer ways to give back when we see the need!

Oh salmon are so-o-o good to eat. Wish we had them in our area. Darla looks like she really enjoyed the fishing.

Well, this is good to know. I am not in love with what is available either so this is well worth trial. Maybe our local Home Depot or Lowes will have them on sale over the holiday shopping season. Thanks for the update!