Valentine's Day Gift Ideas for Guys and Gals!

You have just two weeks to pick out the perfect gift that will let the love of your life know exactly how you feel. So let's put on our thinking caps and see if we can find that one special thing that will bring a smile to your lover's face. (And, hopefully, my little parenthetical wise cracks will put a smile on YOUR face.)

First off, there's always CHOCOLATE. Here's a suggestion for those who are on a budget. And here's something for those with a little more cash in their pockets: you can't go wrong with Godiva! (And you might have something like this as a backup. Wait! On second thought, maybe not.)

Candles are always nice! This one offers a written message along with romantic mood lighting (after you light it, of course). If you feel up to baking a cake, these would be perfect. (On the other hand, this one shouldn't be purchased by ANYONE as it'll just get you into trouble.)

If you're looking to spice things up a little in the bedroom, try this. Ladies, here's a version for your man (Don't you just love the name? Yes, feel free to go back and have a second peek). If you're looking for something a little more risqué, how about this? (But this is definitely going way too far...because it looks a little painful.)

Now for some way out, wacky suggestions: This and this would probably get you into trouble. But this "kiss on a chain" or this emerald set would surely melt the heart of your special someone. And, guys, there is absolutely nothing more romantic than popping the question on Valentine's Day! (Unless, she has an allergy problem. If that's the case, keep your questions to yourself.)

And, ladies, if your man forgets Valentine's Day altogether…buy him this…and give him the works. I guarantee, next year he'll remember.

I hope I gave you some good suggestions...and offered you a chuckle or two. 

Why are you still reading? Get your shopping done. Now!

Have a Happy Valentine's Day!

Mother's Day Afterthoughts

Norma Jean

This blog post is about my 2 mothers. Yes, I was blessed to have two. The first one, Norma Jean, gave birth to me and raised me to the age of 13. Then she was gone--tragically and suddenly--and I was left broken-hearted.

My second mother was Doris Lillian. She came into my life when I was 15. We struggled for a few years (oh, boy, did we struggle!), but we finally found that mother-daughter love. I will be forever grateful to Doris for mothering me when I was so unlovable.

But these afterthoughts aren't about sadness. They're about happy memories and gratitude. That's what Mother's Day is all about.

Mother (left) with her sisters

So I want to remember these amazing women.

Norma Jean was a wonder woman! She could do anything. She was creative, artistic, musically gifted, intelligent, and beautiful. I have often thought she was been born in the wrong century. If she'd had the nurturing and encouragement women receive today, she'd have ruled the world! 

Doris Lillian - my second mom

Doris Lillian was quiet, unassuming, and also beautiful. She was one of the strongest women I have ever met in my life. She succeeded in convincing my father to stop drinking, and that amazing feat changed him into someone I could love. But above all else, I will love Doris for the way she loved my children. My heart always melted when I saw her interacting with my boys. She made my children feel as if they were her treasure, and for that I will always be grateful!

Can you sum up in a few sentences why your mother is (or was) special?