SAY IT ISN'T SO DR. OZ!

Marion Pellicano Ambrose

 

While health food gurus and cosmetic companies are pushing the benefits of palm oil, the demand for this product is actually pushing wildlife and local communities out of their tropical forest habitats. Even the famous Dr. Oz had recommended the use of Palm Oil, though I’m sure he was unaware of the disastrous consequences to wildlife and the environment. The use of palm oil as a biodiesel is on the rise. In addition, it is significantly contributing to the release of climate warming gases.

Indonesia, the leading supplier of palm oil in the world, is now emitting more greenhouse gases than any other country except China.



        

FROM THIS                                                                                         TO THIS

 

Among the endangered species affected by deforestation due to palm oil production are the Sumatran Tiger and the Orangutan. As you may know, I have a special interest in the latter.  If you had the opportunity, as I have had, to look into the eyes of this magnificent creature, you would never dream of using palm oil.

 

PONGO

Orangutans are divided into two species, the Bornean and the Sumatran . Both are native inhabitants of Asia. The redish-brown hair of the Orangutan is absolutely striking, and the adult male cheek pads are impressive and give them an attractive round face. One of the most heartwarming things about driving on to the property at The Center For Great Apes in Wachula, Florida, is hearing the distinctive long calls of the males, attracting females or intimidating rivals. It echoes through the forested compound like a song.

 

As you walk down the pathways around and under the system of overhead chutes that allow the orangutans and chimpanzees to wander all over the  acre grounds, you feel their joy in being up in the trees or in their gigantic open structures that mimic their natural habitat. What strikes me most is the intelligence of these primates. They love to play with toys and show off for passers by. Some do a special dance, while others seem to grin as they fill their mouths up at their fountain and spit water at you. The seem to get the humor in it all.

 I remember on my first visit, a young female Orang followed me everywhere I walked. She seemed to be amused and it was as if she wanted to play with me. On taking a closer look, I noticed she had no arms. This was Mari. She was born in a drug research facility and lost her arms as an infant. Here, at the CFGA, she lives a happy and fulfilling life, learning to do everything she needs with her feet. At my last visit, she was happily living with her mate, the HUGE, handsome Pongo. (By the way, a docent later told me that the reason Mari followed me around was because of my redish-brown hair. She thought I was another Orangutan!)

 I write about these amazing animals so you will feel the personal connection that I do. They are SO smart and feel love, sadness, joy and anger. They like to play, be with their families, learn and enjoy life, just as we do. These particular primates have suffered much in their lifetimes, in circuses, show business, and research labs. Some were bought as exotic pets and when their owners found out what we all should know, wildlife belongs in the wild, they were sold or caged to contain them. The happiest day for each of these creatures was when they were brought to the CFGA.

Unfortunately, the story does not have a happy ending for all Orangutans. Those living in the forests of Indonesia are forces out of their habitat. Some Palm Farmers, in an attempt to protect their new palm oil plantations form the animals returning, shoot, burn and beat the creatures. Others die from lack of food and water. They don’t have a beautiful compound waiting for them. They are destined to die a miserable death. Such a tragedy for so noble and intelligent a being- and so unnecessary.

 

What can you do?

*STOP buying products containing Palm Oil. Look closely at labels. Palm Oil is in cosmetics, candy, soap and pastry dough , among other things.

 

*Educate yourself and others about endangered species, such as the Orangutan and Sumatran Tiger.

 

*Support organizations that protect and defend endangered animals.

http://animals.about.com/od/wildlifeconservation/p/natureconservancy.htm
 http://animals.about.com/od/wildlifeconservation/p/worldwildlifefund.htm
http://www.centerforgreatapes.org/

*Support organizations that rescue these animals and give them back their dignity and lifestyle as much as possible. (Such as the Center For Great Apes)

http://www.centerforgreatapes.org/

 

*Follow the advise of these two sages:

 "Live simply so that others may simply live." Mother Elizabeth Seton

"Become a possibilitarian. No matter how dark things seem to be or actually are, raise your sights and see possibilities - always see them, for they're always there. " ~Norman Vincent Peale

CASEY'S BACK IN COURT,OR IS SHE?

Marion Pellicano Ambrose

 

 

Casey Anthony was tried for the murder of her 2 year old daughter, Caylee in 2012. Caylee disappeared in 2008. Her body was found dumped in the woods near the Antony home.

While Casey was aquitted of the murder charge, she was sentenced to 3 years for lying to Yuri Melich, the lead detective. Anthony stated that she had left Casey with a babysitter named Zanaida Fernandez Gonzalez claiming that she, Gonzalez, was responsible for the child's disappearance. Gonzales is suing for defamationof character,saying Casey's accusations have ruined her life.

Casey is due to appear in court today, but one her attorney claims she will not be present and he will accept the subpoena in her place. She has been in hiding since her release from jail last year. WIth the 3 years served and time off for good behavior, Anthony is scheduled to finish her sentence on Sunday , after having served one year probation.


 



THE NIGHTMARE'S NOT OVER!

Marion Pellicano Ambrose

 

The nightmare that was Hurricane Sandy is not over for many east coast residents. Can I even call them residents? Scores of people are still homeless and living in shelters and some are actually living on the streets. It’s January 2013 and there are fellow Americans still without power, living in what’s left of their home with mold and refuse all around them.  Many Americans and organizations have been kind and generous in their response to the disaster, but what about our own government? As Sandy struck, politicians got up and promised quick response, relief and assistance. And then there was the House of Representatives!

     Tuesday night, House Speaker John Boehner, allowed the house to adjourn after 'fiscal cliff' talks, but, before taking up a much broader $51 billion aid package for Sandy victims.  It was "disappointing and disgusting to watch," said New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, blaming "the toxic internal politics of the House majority."

"New Jersey deserves better than the duplicity we saw on display," he said, adding, "Shame on Congress."  Christie said he had tried to reach Boehner on Tuesday night after the latter canceled a vote on the aid bill, which had already been approved by the Senate. "He did not take my calls," said Christie.

     In a news conference, Christie said he joined people of his state in feeling "betrayed" and added that the move summarizes "why the American people hate Congress."

In a statement, Christie and New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo wrote: "This failure to come to the aid of Americans following a severe and devastating natural disaster is unprecedented. The fact that days continue to go by while people suffer, families are out of their homes, and men and women remain jobless and struggling during these harsh winter months is a dereliction of duty. "

     The plan being considered by the House Friday would send $9 billion in immediate assistance for floor insurance for Sandy victims. The other, broader, $51 billion aid package will be tackled by lawmakers on January 15.  My question is, why does it have to wait? These people are suffering and in immediate need. Take a look at how conditions in some of the affected areas look NOW!

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Many of us come from these east coast areas and have family and friends still living in deplorable conditions. Members of our own DRL staff have suffered great damage and hardship due to Sandy. My sister still lives in Brooklyn. Luckily, she lives in what was Zone 2 and sustained little damage. She drove to our childhood home in Sheepshead Bay and called me almost in tears. The home we grew up in was gutted and had a bright orange paper taped to the front. Most of the houses were destroyed or so damaged they were uninhabitable. Our childhood friends’ homes in what we called “the courts” were demolished. The beautiful, historic Emmons Avenue, the heart of Sheepshead Bay had boats up on the street. The footbridge was under destroyed and large deposits of sludge formed on the sides.

The story is even worse in Long Island, Breezy Point, the Jersey Shore, parts of Connecticut, and other northeaster areas. And now they deal with dirt, filth, rubble, and on top of that – snow and cold. How can members of the House go home to their comfortable air conditioned or heated homes with their electricity, food, and family intact when they know so many are going without all these things?

 And what about FEMA? Don’t even get me started! An untold number of storm victims have been rejected for aid by FEMA for a host of reasons that range from the ridiculous to the confounding. One engaged couple happens to have the same last name and date of birth, though not related at all. FEMA denied them saying they must be related, even though they had proof that it was not true. It seems that FEMA started just sending our form rejections without even finding out what insurance was covering or not.

WHAT CAN WE DO? We need to keep reminding Washington that we want quick action and no excuses. Haven’t they had enough practice with the major hurricanes in Florida and New Orleans to have legislation in place to allow for quick and decisive action to provide emergency relief as well as long term assistance?????

Here is a link to help you find your representative.

http://www.house.gov/representatives/find/

 

Send them a message saying you want immediate action taken. When a vote is taken on January 15^th for a relief bill for the northeast,(as promised)  let’s tell them to make sure there is no red tape that will keep the money from being distributed immediately.

Also- keep all those affected by this storm in your thoughts and prayers, as well as these politicians that have the power to help them. Pray that our leaders will choose people over profit, Americans over avarice, and assistance over ambition.

Information for this post was taken from:
http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/video/boos-house-adjourns-hurricane-sandy-relief-18112801

 

http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/new-yorkers-denied-aid-fema-bureaucracy-article-1.1211634#ixzz2GzOzmdFY

 

http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/politics/2013/01/in-congress-something-old-and-something-new-the-note/

 

 

AVOIDING THE FISCAL CLIFF,ONE STEP at a TIME

Marion Pellicano Ambrose

 

The US House has voted on a bill to avoid the “fiscal cliff” that we’ve all been dreading. In a late night vote on Tuesday, the bill was approved with a  257-167 vote. Most Democrats approved while many Republicans did not, stating that there weren’t enough tax cuts in the bill. The bill will now go to President Obama’s desk for approval.

I’m no political analyst, but I do know that this would prevent middle-class taxes from going up but would raise rates on higher incomes. It would also block spending cuts for two months, extend unemployment benefits for the long-term jobless, prevent a 27 percent cut in fees for doctors who treat Medicare patients and prevent a spike in milk prices. I think all this is good for A START, but there is much more work to do.

 I think our lawmakers need to get themselves busy finding ways to cut spending starting with their own salaries, bonuses, insurance plans, “expense accounts” and other ways. I believe the salary of a president or any politician should not be for life, nor should we pay for traveling expenses unless they are directly related to the business of running this country. Vacations, campaigning, and personal events should have to be paid for out of pocket just like the rest of us. If we have to pay for our medical, dental and life insurance, so should all politicians. I would also like to see a nice, reasonable “cap” put on presidential libraries. In my opinion, there are SO many ways to make cuts that won’t hurt the American people and really isn’t unreasonable to ask of our politicians.

 As I said, I’m no expert, so here is some data from the Associated Press and Channel 13 News  explaining some of the details of the bill. (picture is from CSPAN)

 

- Income tax rates: Extends decade-old tax cuts on incomes up to $400,000 for individuals, $450,000 for couples. Earnings above those amounts would be taxed at a rate of 39.6 percent, up from the current 35 percent. Extends Clinton-era caps on itemized deductions and the phase-out of the personal exemption for individuals making more than $250,000 and couples earning more than $300,000.

- Estate tax: Estates would be taxed at a top rate of 40 percent, with the first $5 million in value exempted for individual estates and $10 million for family estates. In 2012, such estates were subject to a top rate of 35 percent.

- Capital gains, dividends: Taxes on capital gains and dividend income exceeding $400,000 for individuals and $450,000 for families would increase from 15 percent to 20 percent.

- Alternative minimum tax: Permanently addresses the alternative minimum tax and indexes it for inflation to prevent nearly 30 million middle- and upper-middle income taxpayers from being hit with higher tax bills averaging almost $3,000. The tax was originally designed to ensure that the wealthy did not avoid owing taxes by using loopholes.

- Other tax changes: Extends for five years Obama-sought expansions of the child tax credit, the earned income tax credit, and an up-to-$2,500 tax credit for college tuition. Also extends for one year accelerated "bonus" depreciation of business investments in new property and equipment, a tax credit for research and development costs and a tax credit for renewable energy such as wind-generated electricity.

- Unemployment benefits: Extends jobless benefits for the long-term unemployed for one year.

- Cuts in Medicare reimbursements to doctors: Blocks a 27 percent cut in Medicare payments to doctors for one year. The cut is the product of an obsolete 1997 budget formula.

- Social Security payroll tax cut: Allows a 2-percentage-point cut in the payroll tax first enacted two years ago to lapse, which restores the payroll tax to 6.2 percent.

- Across-the-board cuts: Delays for two months $109 billion worth of across-the-board spending cuts set to start striking the Pentagon and domestic agencies this week. Cost of $24 billion is divided between spending cuts and new revenues from rule changes on converting traditional individual retirement accounts into Roth IRAs.

 

CHARLES DURNING: HE DID A LITTLE SIDESTEP

Marion Pellicano Ambrose

 

 

One of my favorite character actors passed away on Christmas Eve. Charles Durning, 89, whose film credits include "The Sting", "Tootsie","Dick Tracy," "Home for the Holidays," "The Muppet Movie," "North Dallas Forty" and "O Brother Where Art Thou?", and my personal favorite : Best Little Whorehouse in Texas", leaves behind more than just a legacy of film and TV roles.   Durning appeared in almost 200 movies, countless television shows and dozens of plays, portraying a range of characters from Shakespearean fools to crooked cops to military veterans and even a priest. He was nominated for two Academy Awards and nine Emmy Awards and won a Tony Award for his performance as Big Daddy in a 1990 Broadway revival of Tennessee Williams’s “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof.”

 

 But the thing I found most admirable about this man was not his acting career . The fact is,

Durning was a true, blue, WWII hero. According to Yahoo News: Durning was part of the U.S. force that landed at Omaha Beach during the D-Day invasion in June 1944. A few days later he was shot in the hip - he said he carried the bullet in his body thereafter - and after six months of recovery was sent to the Battle of the Bulge.

Durning, who was wounded twice more, was captured and was one of the few survivors of the Malmedy massacre when German troops opened fire on dozens of American prisoners. In addition to three Purple Heart medals for his wounds, Durning was presented the Silver Star for valor.

At an observation of the 60th anniversary of D-Day in Washington, Durning told of the terror he felt and carnage he saw when hitting the beach on D-Day. He said he had to jettison his weapon and gear in order to swim ashore and saw mortally wounded comrades offering themselves as human shields.

"I forget a lot of stuff now but I still wake up once in a while and it's still there," he said. "I can't count how many of my buddies are in the cemetery at Normandy."

Before his acting career, Durning worked as a professional ballroom dancer and teacher.
His other jobs included working as a comedian, night watchman, dishwasher, sightseeing guide, bridge painter, bricklayer, plumber’s helper, bartender and cabdriver. At 30, he was delivering telegrams, while appearing in plays where his payment came from the passing of a hat. With all these life experiences, it's no wonder he became such an amazing character actor.

The world has lost a great actor and an outstanding human being. Rest in Peace Charles, you've earned it! 
 


KEEP OUR SOLDIER'S CANDLE BURNING

Marion Pellicano Ambrose

 

Growing up, I always looked forward to Christmas Eve night, when my father would call us all to the porch and light a candle to place in the window.  The candle was to light the way for the Holy Family and to show that we always had room for them at our house. I love this tradition, but this year, I'd like to change it a little. I'm sure the Holy Family won't mind at all!   I'd like to invite you to join me in keeping a light in the window for our soldiers, still overseas, who won't be able to be with their loved ones this Christmas.

There’s a candle in the window
For our soldier off at war,
Standing constant vigil ’til
His foreign tour is o’er.

The sentinel stands faithfully
Through day and dark of night,
Reminding all who look its way,
To pray for Freedom’s fight.

For safety and for courage,
And for wisdom do we pray;
That God may grant him all these things
As his Comrade day by day.

Now stand, O Candle, bright and tall,
Alert us all, each one,
That the price of freedom is not cheap,
And its battle not yet done.

So light his way and burn for him,
And for his safe returning;
Our love will be the fuel that keeps
Our soldier’s candle burning

BACK TO BEING A REPUBLICRAT!

Marion Pellicano Ambrose

Here I go again- having an opinion that is part Republican and part Democrat.  ( http://delayedreactionlounge.blogspot.com/2011/04/demlicans-or-repubicrats.html)

I nearly gave my husband a heart attack when I said "I agree with President Obama in that there should be a ban on assault weapons (except for police and military) and that no one in the general public should have access to armor piercing bullets! But, even though I'm a registered Republican, this is what I believe. I also agree that there is much to be done in the field of mental health and how we deal with it in this country. I'm hoping that this "task force" appointed by the President, will genuinely address these issues and not just "look into them".
I must also strongly disagree with the arming of teachers. Teachers are already asked to be mother, nurse, psychologist, babysitter, secretary, nutritionist and more. Why would we ask them to take on such an awesome responsibility of being bodyguard and police officer? As a former teacher and assistant principal, I can tell you that teachers are yearning for the days when we were actually allowed to TEACH! Now there is so little actual quality instructional time due to documentation, paperwork, fundraising, school photos, increase of special needs kids in the classroom, differentiated instruction, ... should I go on? Now you want to ask these teachers to carry a gun and learn how to shoot it?  This is insane! Whatever the cost, it would be much more effective to have an armed officer on campus who is thoroughly trained and experienced in dealing with emergency situations.
It was evident , as events unfolded in Sandy Hook Elementary School, that the teachers were well trained in what to do, and were willing to put their lives on the line for their students. How much more could you ask?
Now, here's the Republican in me speaking: We must protect the 2nd amendment and support the right to have a gun to protect ourselves and our loved ones, however, everyone should have to have a background check, take a training course, and people with a history of mental illness should not be able to have access to a gun (theirs or anyone elses.)
Again, it seems to me that there is a common ground for both sides of the table. I don't understand why politics places us at each others' throats! Life is full of compromise or give and take. Why can't we be that way politically?
Well, maybe it won't matter . If the Mayans are correct, we won't be arguing much longer! I'd better get this posted before the end comes and no one gets to read it!
Best Wishes,
Marion

FLY LITTLE WING, UPON THE WIND OF HEAVEN'S LOVE

Marion Pellicano Ambrose

 

As we grieve for the loss of so many little angels, think not of our suffering, but of their flight to perfect happiness. I dedicate the playing of this song to the families and friends of all the "Little Wings" of Sandy Hook.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=33Zd8fEsQAk


FLY by Celine Dion

Fly, fly little wing
Fly beyond imagining
The softest cloud, the whitest dove
Upon the wind of heaven's love
Past the planets and the stars
Leave this lonely world of ours
Escape the sorrow and the pain
And fly again

Fly, fly precious one
Your endless journey has begun
Take your gentle happiness
Far too beautiful for this
Cross over to the other shore
There is peace forevermore
But hold this mem'ry bittersweet
Until we meet

Fly, fly do not fear
Don't waste a breath, don't shed a tear
Your heart is pure, your soul is free
Be on your way, don't wait for me
Above the universe you'll climb
On beyond the hands of time
The moon will rise, the sun will set
But I won't forget

Fly, fly little wing
Fly where only angels sing
Fly away, the time is right
Go now, find the light

SINTERKLAAS IS COMING TO TOWN!

Marion Pellicano Ambrose

As a teacher, each year I celebrated "Sinterklaas Day" with my classes. One reason is because I'm part Dutch (on my mother's side), but the real reason is because it's so much fun! My children would make cardboard wooden shoes and paper carrots and hay to place outside the classroom the eve of Sinterklaas Day. Sure enough, the next morning, December 6th, when they came back to school, Sinterklaas had visited, leaving candy, cookies and other treats in their shoes.

In Holland, during the last week of November, Sinterklaas arrives aboard a steamboat from Spain. He rides a white horse and his assistant, Zwarte Piet. They travel to Amsterdam where huge crowds greet them. The children are on their best behavior because if they are naughty, Zwarte Piet may swat them with a stick or take them back to Spain in his big bag.

On the night of December 5th, Dutch children place their wooden shoes by the fireplace and fill them with carrots and hay for Sinterklaas' white horse. If they were good, Sinterklaas will replace the "horse chow"  with gifts and candy. In many homes, there may be a knock at the door, or the ring of the doorbell and Zwarte Piet's hand may be seen throwing candies and cookies into the room and quickly shutting the door. When the door is finally opened, there is a basket of gifts wrapped in funny or unusual ways, with special poems or rhymes attached and signed by Sinterklaas himself.

One of my favorite traditions is the giving of initials in solid chocolate! Sinterklaas Day is celebrated with parties and a great deal of merrymaking. Christmas Day, however is a time for family get togethers and church services.

I think it's a great way to help children to learn about other cultures and appreciate diversity. I say we celebrate Hanukkah, Kwanza, Las Posadas and Santa Lucia Day ! Share stories from La Befana to the Elf on the Shelf - whatever spreads joy, helps bring families together, and fosters learning and appreciation of other cultures! There are many excellent books that tell the stories of Winter Holidays, explain the meaning behind holiday symbols and songs,and include fun and educational activities.
Here are a few that I've used myself:

Monthly Idea Book (December)   Karen Sevaly

Mailbox Magazine (December and also The Best of Mailbox)

The Return of the Light (12 Tales From Around the World)   Carolyn McVickar Edwards

Christmas Keepsake - A Treasury of Best-Loved Stories and More   Annette Cable

Celebrate Christmas Around the World    Beth Stevens

Lights of Winter: Winter Celebrations Around the World  Heather Conrad

Around The World Through Holidays: Cross Curricular Readers Theatre    Carol Peterson

The Real St. Nicholas: Tales of Generosity and Hope from around the World   Louise Carus

ANY of the National Geographic Holidays Around the World   Deborah Heligman

ROYAL BABY ON THE WAY?

Marion Pellicano Ambrose

 

The news is out - Princess Kate and Prince William are expecting. Reportedly, a friend of Kate's blabbed the news last week. A representative for the royal family made the following statement:
"Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are very pleased to announce that The Duchess of Cambridge is expecting a baby.  The Queen, The Duke of Edinburgh, The Prince of Wales, The Duchess of Cornwall and Prince Harry and members of both families are delighted with the news." The representative also confirmed that Princess Kate had been admitted to the hospital.
"The Duchess was admitted this afternoon to King Edward VII Hospital in Central London with Hyperemesis Gravidarum.  As the pregnancy is in its very early stages, Her Royal Highness is expected to stay in hospital for several days and will require a period of rest thereafter."

Hyperemesis Gravidarum is very acute morning sickness. It requires hydration and supplemental nutrients. Princess Kate has not yet reached the 12 week mark in her pregnancy. The royal couple is expected to make a formal announcement sometime this month.

As William's first born, the baby will be next in line to the throne after his, or her father. Yes- boy or girl, this baby has a pretty good chance of being a monarch! Since almost 2 billion people watched as Kate and William were married, I imagine this pregnancy and birth will be in the spotlight over the next several months.

Let's hope the baby is healthy, happy and is allowed to grow up free from the craziness of the paparazzi that had so plagued the Royal Family.

SINGIN' THE HOLIDAY BLUES

Marion Pellicano Ambrose

“It’s the most wonderful time of the year”, isn’t that how the song goes? Everywhere we look it says we should be merry, filled with joy, celebrating the season…. This may be true for many people, but according to Psychology Today, 45% of North Americans dread the holiday season. Why?

The first reason I think of is one that my husband voices each year. He hates the commercialism of Christmas and the holidays. Every year it seems retailers start decorating and advertising earlier and earlier. Thanksgiving has all but disappeared between Halloween and the beginning of Christmas season. It’s also this commercialism that might cause reason # 2 for the holiday blues – finances. Who has the money in this economy for joyful Christmas shopping? We’re all counting pennies trying to stretch the budget to pay bills, buy food and necessities. Salary freezes and cuts, increased costs and loss of income for so many have made this season more difficult than ever.

 According to the National Institute of Health, the incidences of depression, suicide and attempted suicide are increasing. Some of this depression seems to stem from people comparing what they have (or rather, that they don’t have) with others who are more fortunate. This is true of both adults and children. We look at wealthier folks and feel that if we had their money and possessions, all our problems would be solved. I have to admit, the thought has crossed my mind that winning the lottery might do it for me, but then I look at the stories of all these people who have everything they could want, and they’re more depressed than I am!

Another reason, and one I keenly feel myself, is that this season triggers memories and a longing for those loved ones who have passed on. We remember the warm and loving times spent in the past and become nostalgic and sad. We seem to only remember the best of times and become entangled in the past, making the present and future seem bleak and hopeless.  I find myself thinking back to when my Dad placed a lighted candle in the window every Christmas Eve, and my Mom pinned holly and poinsettias on the crisp white curtains she only put up at Christmas. I remember caroling in the snow with all my friends, followed by all of us returning to my house for pizza and Coca Cola (one of the few times we were allowed to have soda).  My mom had those little Christmas boxes, like the ones animal crackers come in, filled with hard candy ribbon and other holiday treats. I’m sure you have memories of Christmas past that you reflect on too.

The final reason for feeling depressed at this time of year, that I sometimes feel, is the pressure of social obligations. The parties, visiting relatives, “making the rounds”, as my father used to call it. The baking, getting the right gifts for the right person and wrapping them, gaining weight from all the goodies, having the right clothes for each party, decorating, and on and on and on! Most of the time I enjoy all these things, but sometimes there just aren’t enough hours in the day and I spend the night worrying about getting it all done!

So what do I do with all this nostalgia, stress and depression? Sometimes, I do the wrong things. I feel sorry for myself and eat, or I get stressed and snap at my family for no reason. But I’ve learned some good things to do to help me keep from sinking into the blues this time of year.

The first thing I do is think of all I have to be grateful for. (Counting my blessings instead of sheep as Bing Crosby used to sing.) I think of how awesome my husband and children are, and how lucky I am to have them. I think of my home – not the biggest of fanciest, but it’s comfortable and filled with love. I think of the gift I was given in becoming a teacher, and all my wonderful friends and family members.

Another thing I do, especially when I’m missing my parents or other loved ones who are gone now, is I carry on the traditions that I remember doing with them. I bake like my mom did, I light the candle like my dad and I decorate every nook and cranny of my house, just as I remember my childhood house being decorated. We have no snow, but I taught my students Christmas Carols in all different languages and took them to nursing homes to sing. We brought the residents the candy ribbons (and warm socks too).

Since funds are in short supply, I’m making a lot of my gifts- Cakes, cookie trays, lap quilts, and ceramic gifts. I shop on ebay and have even chosen some of my own valued possessions to pass on to others as a gift. I don’t mean regifting the fruitcake, I mean giving a piece of jewelry that holds meaning for me, or one of my Precious Moments statues.

As far as the commercialism, there isn’t too much I can do about that, except to keep the real meaning of Christmas alive in my heart and my home. My lladro nativity is a main centerpiece in my living room and my tree is full of angels, shepherds, wise men and stars to remind us of what the season is about. When my kids were little, I made a white angel food cake each Christmas and we lit the candles and sang happy birthday to the baby Jesus. I also watch all the corny Hallmark specials and animated Christmas stories on TV. They help to keep me focused on what's important.

So what about the pressure of social engagements?  My husband and I worked out a routine that works for us. We spend Christmas Eve at his mom’s and Christmas in our own home. I go to my work Christmas party and he goes to his. We accept invitations to friends’ parties, but are careful not to stretch ourselves too thin.  My husband is definitely the social type. Fortunately, many of my friends have husbands who feel the same. We tend to have “girls night” activities that are fun and no pressure.

The final, and probably the most fulfilling thing I do to beat the blues, is to volunteer. Helping with a food and toy giveaway with Families of the Shield goes a long way in giving me the true Christmas spirit! The Shield provides a full meal and toys for families of first responders in financial need (fire/rescue, police officers and military). Last year we had 200 families. This year we hope to help 300. What a wonderful way to thank first responders for putting their lives on the line for the rest of us every day of the year!    I also make a point of going to the Center For Great Apes to wrap treats for the chimps and orangutans and then helping at open house when visitors come to see them get their wrapped gifts. It’s amazing to see these creatures get so excited over their wrapped boxes filled with dried fruit and nuts, or a hat or scarf that they put on right away!  They get the best of care and lots of love, which they so richly deserve after the terrible treatment they had when they were in circuses, side shoes of in show business.

I’m sure there are many other ways to lift spirits during the holiday season. I’d be happy to hear what you do to “keep your season bright”. If you have an idea or suggestion, post it in comments. You might just help someone to have a happy holiday!

 

http://www.psychologytoday.com/

 

http://teens.drugabuse.gov/blog/tips-healthier-holidays-happy-year/

 

http://www.nih.gov/

 

 

JOHN MCAFEE LOSES IT!

Marion Pellicano Ambrose

 

John McAfee founded McAfee software  in 1987. By the early 1990s the company had grown into the largest anti-virus company in the world. By giving the software away for free then charging for technical support and upgrades, he changed the software industry  forever. In 1994, McAfee became bored with his business and stepped down as CEO . He sold all of his shares for $100 Million.  After the sale, the company continued to grow by leaps and bounds. If John McAfee had held onto his shares he would now be a multi billionaire!
Instead, McAfee began spending like there was no tomorrow. He accumulated a mansion in Hawaii, a jet, a ranch, and more. Bad investments caused him to claim bankruptcy in 2008. He sold all his possessions and barely had $4 million to his name.
It was at that point McAfee moved to Belize, where he believed his money would go farther. He began dating a 17 year old girl and opened a "new age" pharmaceutical company. It was believed by local authorities, that he was actually producing methamphetamine and "bath salts". In May of this year he was thrown in jail and his house was searched. Police found quite a few guns. He was released a day later.
Today, police announced that John McAfee is the prime suspect in the murder of his neighbor, Gregory Faull.( Last Wednesday, Faull filed a formal complaint against McAfee in the local mayor's office, claiming that the McAfee had been firing off guns and exhibiting "roguish behavior." )
 McAfee is on the run from police but granted a phone interview today where he claimed that the FBI and authorities had been after him for a long time and that he was totally innocent. He believes the Prime Minister of Belize and the police are setting him up and that he will be killed if turned over to the police. And so, the millionaire/would -be billionaire has basically lost it all: his fortune, his possessions, and quite possibly his mind!

POLICE OFFICER DOWN

Marion Pellicano Ambrose

A Jupiter, Florida Police Officer was killed today while escourting the President's Motorcade in West Palm Beach. Officer Bruce St.Laurent , a 20 year veteran of the force, was redirecting traffic on I95 when he was stuck by a Ford F150 pickup truck.
President Obama was informed of the tragedy as he touched down at Andrews Air Force Base.

Please join all of us at Delayed Reaction Lounge in praying for Officer St. Laurent's family,friends, and fellow officers, and offering them our deepest condolences. 

Expendables 2 - Bloody Good Fun!

Marion Pellicano Ambrose

I went to see Expendables 2 with my husband last night. I'm not a big fan of blood and violence, but I have to admit, I enjoyed this movie a great deal.

It wasn't the shooting, head chopping, stabbing or explosions that got me hooked, it was the way all the amazing Action Heroes were able to slip in subtle cracks at themselves and their movies. From Arnold's "I told you I'd be back" to his "Yippee Kay-a" to Bruce Willis, each  jibe was funnier than the next.

The best part of the whole movie, in my opinion, was Chuck Norris.  His entrance was classic. I won't ruin it for you by describing it. You just have to see it! He was Walker, Texas Ranger and Lone Wolf McQuaid all rolled into one. I always loved Chuck Norris, but after this I'm even more of a fan!

The critics used words like "Sparkle" (Huffington Post),"Taut, violent, and suitably self-deprecating." (Rotten Tomatoes),'The Expendables 2' is armed with Sylvester Stallone, Jason Statham, Liam Hemsworth, Bruce Willis, Jet Li and more for blow-'em-up craziness that's B-movie fun."(LA Times). They all seem to agree - a surprisingly great movie!

Personal note: Take the spouse, a date or other adult, but leave the kids home for this one.

CURIOSITY LAND ROVER LANDS ON MARS

Marion Pellicano Ambrose

NASA's attempt to land Mars rover, Curiosity this morning, was a huge success. There was much cheering and congratulating in Mission Control at NASA in California. The rover, and the thousands of NASA workers, survived the dreaded "seven minutes of terror" when so many things could have gone wrong, but nothing did!

The landing process, involved a sky crane and the world's largest supersonic parachute, allowing the spacecraft carrying Curiosity to target the landing area that scientists have chosen. This type of landing had never been attempted before.

The rover began its journey to Mars 8 months ago. Today it begins its mission to investigate Mars, searching for signs of life from the past and sending information to scientists to evaluate the possibility of it sustaining life in the future. Curiosity's first stop will be Gale Crater, which may have once contained a lake. After at least a year, the rover will arrive at Mount Sharp, in the center of the crater. The rover will drive up the mountain examining layers of sediment. This process is like looking at a historical record because each layer represents an era of the planet's history.

Sally Ride, American Hero, Dead at 61

Marion Pellicano Ambrose

National hero, Sally Ride, died of pancreatic cancer yesterday. Ride was a former astronaut and physicist. After her space flights, Ride continued to inspire young people all over the world through her company, Sally Ride Space.

Sally’s first space flight was aboard the shuttle Challenger on June 18, 1983. Her second, also on Challenger, was October 5, 1984, logging 343 hours in space. A third flight was cancelled when Challenger exploded in 1986. She was on the commission investigating that accident and later served on the panel for the 2003 Columbia shuttle accident, the only person on both boards. She also was on the president's committee of science advisers. Ride was a physicist, writer of five science books for children and president of her own company, which motivates youngsters to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and math. She had also been a professor of physics at the University of California, San Diego.

"People around the world still recognize her name as the first American woman in space, and she took that title seriously even after departing NASA," Eileen Collins, the first female space shuttle commander, said in a statement. "She never sought media attention for herself, but rather focused on doing her normally outstanding job."

When Ride first launched into space, feminist icons such as Gloria Steinem and Jane Fonda were at Kennedy Space Center and many wore T-shirts alluding to the pop song with the refrain of the same name: "Ride, Sally Ride."

NASA Administrator Charles Bolden, a former astronaut, said Ride "broke barriers with grace and professionalism -- and literally changed the face of America's space program."

"The nation has lost one of its finest leaders, teachers and explorers," he said in a statement.

One of Ride's last legacies was allowing middle school students to take their own pictures of the moon using cameras aboard NASA's twin Grail spacecraft in a project spearheaded by her company.

"Sally literally could have done anything with her life. She decided to devote her life to education and to inspiring young people. To me, that's such a powerful thing. It's extraordinarily admirable," said Maria Zuber, a professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology who heads the Grail mission.

Ride's obituary said she is survived by Tam O'Shaughnessy, her partner of 27 years and a co-founder of Sally Ride Science; her mother, Joyce; her sister, Bear, a niece; and a nephew.

James Holmes' Arraignment to be Televised

Marion Pellicano Ambrose

While watching the news this evening, I heard that the judge overseeing the arraignment of James Holmes, accused Aurora movie theater killer, will allow cameras inside the courtroom tomorrow.
This means the public will see and hear the man who killed 12 and wounded 58 others in a shooting spree at the premier of the new Batman movie, The Dark Knight Rises.
According to Colorado police, Holmes has been uncooperative and has given no clue as to his motive for the tragic killing spree.

The latest picture of Holmes  realeased today shows him with bright red hair and a smug smile on his face. Let's hope the justice system is able to wipe that smile right off and provide justice for the families of the killed and injured!

COLORADO SHOOTING: WHO IS TO BLAME?

                            Marion Pellicano Ambrose

Ever since the first word of the tragic shooting at the Colorado theater hit the air, conservatives and liberals have been pointing fingers and crying “their fault”.

ABC News was just itching for a right wing connection, so they found one of the many people named “James Holmes” in the Denver area who happens to have a Tea Party connection even though they didn’t know for sure if it was the murderer. Here’s the conversation:

Stephanolpoulos: I’m going to go to Brian Ross. You’ve been investigating the background of Jim Holmes here. You found something that might be significant.

Ross: There’s a Jim Holmes of Aurora, Colorado, page on the Colorado Tea party site as well, talking about him joining the Tea Party last year. Now, we don’t know if this is the same Jim Holmes. But it’s Jim Holmes of Aurora, Colorado.

Stephanolpoulos: Okay, we’ll keep looking at that. Brian Ross, thanks very much.

Of course, it was a middle aged different “James Holmes” which ABC must have known, but they couldn’t resist taking the shot.

Conservatives have jumped on the band wagon saying that the liberal media have allowed violent, dark movies like Batman to mentally damage young people like James Holmes, and that’s what caused him to go on his shooting spree.  While I have to  agree that movies are way too violent and filled with sex and deviant behavior these days, I don’t think that was the single ,deciding factor that made this man murder 12 people and injure many more.

 As I switched from channel to channel, I heard about the need for gun control and how NRA was to blame for the tragedy, how the school system has let society down and caused the situation, how parents have failed in raising their children. There were so many fingers pointing I couldn’t keep track of who was blaming who! (or is that whom?)

Anyway, I finally saw one person on TV who was making perfect sense. He wasn’t pointing a finger or placing blame, although more than almost anyone, he had that right. He was the boyfriend of Jessica Ghawi, an aspiring young sportscaster who was killed in the theater shooting. When the reporter attempted to have him take a stand on the gun control issue, he refused and said all he wanted was for everyone to concentrate on the victims, on Jessica. He’s right. This isn’t a time for politics.  As both President Obama and Presidential hopeful Mitt Romney stated, this is a time for prayer and reflection. They both had the good sense and sensitivity to put politics aside to mourn for the dead and comfort their families and the injured.

Perhaps in a few days, we can talk about gun control, violence in movies, and all the rest. But not today, today is for remembering.