Cup Half Full

This morning I walked into Starbucks as I do every morning with excitement for my spirited red Christmas decorated coffee cup. The cup has ornaments and sayings of hope and spirit that somehow make me smile while thanking the barista behind the bar who has an extra twinkle in his eye with his candy-cane red apron on. Starting the day after Thanksgiving, I know that Christmas is just around the corner when I eye the stacks of red behind the counter. I want to break out into "Jingle Bells" right then and there. This morning though I was a bit dissapointed as I stepped up to order my Americano and there sat the somewhat perturbed barista with just a plain white cup in hand, trying to manage the 25 people behind me who waited impatiently. I sighed and tried to smile while reaching for my drink. He looked up and must have saw something sad in my eyes because his face lit up in a grin. "They'll be back next year," he said. "Don't worry. Have a wonderful day until then." He was right. Red cups are merely a state of mind and I will get just as excited next year when they come back. For now, the white is minimally chic and just as joyful.

Bag check

In anticipation of my flight this week, I am a bit overwhelmed by all of the news regarding the latest attempted terror attack. I am fearing that while I used to have to take off just my shoes, I am now going to be asked to remove everything but my underwear. Not a bad idea - maybe that would scare the terrorists enough seeing everyone in their undies.

Travel is supposed to have entered a new age with faster planes and quicker check-in kiosks. I would bet however, that our grandparents did not have to get to the airport four hours in advance, be patted down from head to toe as though applying soap in the shower, wait another three hours because of delays and finally reach their destination which was supposedly only two hours away in a record 12 hours.

I understand that security comes with a price (and level of patience) and I am in full cooperation of doing anything that will make us safer. I am a bit confused though as to how sitting for the last hour of a flight without blankets or pillows, personal belongings of any sort, while crossing my legs for the bathroom is an effective way to ensure a safe landing. Perhaps we should actually look at the 500,000 people on the list before letting them get onto a plane and make serious note when a family member alerts the U.S. Embassy of a disturbed son who has been hiding in Yemen. Needless to say, I am happy that those passengers are safe and had the assertiveness to act quickly.

On that note, I am planning on wearing my pajams to the airport with my wallet on a string around my neck without a sole piece of luggage or carry on. Lets hope I can hold it for that last hour.

Additions to Tradition

The first real snow storm of the season fell over the weekend, blanketing both country and city in a fuzzy white - the effect adding to the feeling of Christmas with people dodging snow banks as they managed armfuls of packages. This weekend was meant to be an early family Christmas with everyone coming in from out of town to share in the traditions of our childhood before they left to go with their significant others and their families for Christmas. Due to the snow however, the festivities were shortened to a couple of hours late Friday night. The short hours together sitting in front of our magnificent tree by the fire captured the true essence of Christmas. While much to short, we laughed and cried in true Lynch style just enough to sustain my spirit before the goodbyes. As a bear tied to the sentiments of tradition, new additions can be emotional. I am reminded though of how lucky I am to have new people in my life who add to the definition of family and make my siblings shine in their true light. I relish the times that we share as a family whether it be for an hour or 72 hours. Christmas, early or late, would just not be the same without them.

For now, I send Christmas wishes to them near and far. And to you dear reader - may your days be merry and bright surrounded with people who make you shine.

Begin or end?

Some days begin the way they end. Some end better than they begin. And some end wishing for a new start in the morning. Days like this are ones where I am thankful for those on the other end of the phone who listen to my words and suggest a long bubble bath. While complaining is easy and confidence can wane, days like these are important because they keep me grounded. I am reminded of those things that I can improve on. I test my sense of self and capabilities, sometimes questioning both. The good news is...there is always tomorrow.

Oh Christmas Tree!

It's officially Christmas in New York City. The wreaths are hung high, the lights are a twinkle and the carols are greeting shoppers as they enter the warmth of stores. Everyone seems to be just a little more jolly this time of year, smiling as they stroll along the sidewalks bundled in their scarves and admiring the fantasy of store windows hand in hand. This is my favorite time of year. As a sentimental person to the core, the spirit of Christmas engulfs my heart and I find myself humming throughout the day. It is a time when what matters most translates into gatherings with family and friends, smells of holly and gingerbread, and acts of kindness that keep on giving. Tonight, the official kickoff to Christmas starts for me with the lighting of the Rockefeller Christmas tree. The Rockettes, Al Roker and a plethera of "Jingle Bells" and "What Child Is This" make goosebumps crawl and tears of blessings fill my heart. So to all of you out there who need a bit of Christmas to get you in the mood, this Bear recommends watching.

Until next time, I send blessings and love... 

New Horizons

Soaring at 30,000 feet the weekend trails in the past with times of treasure still dancing through my head. All were present and accounted for plus some new faces. The festivities began with an engagement party for my oldest sister followed by many rounds of golf, lots of giggles, turkey in the middle somewhere and finishing with a celebration of my parents 30th wedding anniversary. All in all, I could not have designed a more wonderful few days with the people who accept me for all of my faults and uplift my spirit. As my parents often remind us and show us daily, Thanksgiving is a time to extend outward. Sitting around the table was great family friends who have become like family, new soon to be family of my sisters fiance and his parents, my brother in law, aunt, grandparents, parents and siblings. As we grow older and the family grows with us, I am reminded of how blessed I am. Family begins to grow like a backyard - with new patches of grass looking a little out of place, but quickly the new sod will be completely entwined with the roots of the entire yard, creating a blanket of unity. Someday I hope to meet someone to add his own little patch of green to the mix. Until then, I marvel at the vibrant landscape I am a part of and smile.

Be a Tigger

In an interview with the New York Times, Mindy Grossman, Chief Executive of HSN, describes the people she surrounds herself with as Tiggers. "There are a number of things that are really important to me. One — and people laugh that I have this philosophy — is that you only hire Tiggers. You don’t hire Eeyores. It doesn’t mean they have to be loud, but I need energy-givers and I have to get a feeling that this person is going to be able to inspire people." She goes on to talk about passion and taking risks, making sure that you take time to discover what it is that makes you excited to wake up in the morning. Her message rings true to all aspects of life, career and otherwise. No more "oh, bother" for me.

Read the article: "Are you a Tigger, or an Eeyore?"

For the History Books

After having surgery three years ago, I go to physical therapy twice a week for my back. My physical therapist knows my surgeons well as they are all in the same circles of work and work in tandem with patients. I refer to them as my Olympic training team. When I was at physical therapy yesterday, my doctor told me he had just had dinner with my surgeon and they were amongst colleagues discussing my case. Well, I have to admit I was a bit flushed in the cheeks having all of those men discussing me. That was a first! Needless to say they were discussing the structural elements of my spinal column and my combined anterior thoracoscopic fusion and posterior instrumented fusion...words every woman wants to hear. The doctors were saying how they had never quite seen a case like mine before, weighing in on possible outcomes for my future after my extensive surgery. My physical therapist told me the story yesterday, almost beaming with pride. He said, "You, my dear, are history in the making and will be in medical history books. Let's show 'em what tough is!" Well I must admit I never quite thought I would be history in the making nor do I even pretend to compare myself to all those who really do make history in their every day valiant conquests that are often overlooked. I am humbled by your stories, your inspirational journeys and unwavering spirit. You are history that is worth repeating. We cheer you on from the sidelines.

Semper Fi

Today should be echoed every day as we honor those men and women who keep us safe at home and abroad. We honor your courage and selflessness, your humility and strength. We welcome a Marine into our family with pride. You remind us of the importance in each day, the purpose of our actions and the preciousness of life. We are indebted to you as a country, as a community, as a family and as individuals. Today and every day, may god bless you and your families. You are in our hearts and prayers forever and always.

Bearing the cold

Is the brrr putting a grrr in your day? As a woman with spine of steel (no seriously I have two titanium rods in my back) I am constantly cold when the fall and winter months come around. I have been known to not take my coat off indoors, be wrapped in pashminas and scarves the like. So when I find some things that keep me warm I can't wait to share my discoveries.

First...invest in some long underwear. I am obsessed with wearing long sleeved shirts layered under turtlenecks. REI and L.L.Bean have lots of options that are inexpensive. Check out http://www.llbean.com/ and http://www.rei.com/

Second...boots are great to keep the tosies warm, on the walk to work especially. If you already have rain boots, like Hunter boots, you can just invest in an inexpensive pair of fleece liners and voila, an immediate transformation into a winter cozeyland for your feet. Uggs are also a great option. Visit http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446171250&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=282574492711042&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=1408474399545537&bmUID=1257789419646

Third...your neck can be a major source of heat loss so hurry and cover it with a scarf! You will look posh all the while.

Finally...get your hands around a warm cup of something with someone you love. My favorite is an americano (novices be where though - its strong!) But whatever it is, let the steam comfort your red nose from the cold.

Hope this helps you stay beary warm this winter...hugs

Venus, you there? It's me, Bear

I am a believer in things happening for a reason. I am a believer that any small struggles I go through make the big picture bigger and allow me to enjoy the details even more. I am a believer in believing and dreaming, even when my horoscope tells me differently. This month though, my horoscope seems to think that my prince charming might someday come along. Read your monthly horoscope at http://www.astrologyzone.com/forecasts/ and start believing.

What I know for sure

I know that dancing makes me happy and hugs sustain my soul

I know that giggling is my favorite pastime and smiling can make a strangers day

I know that being a pumpkin or an M&M on October 31st has no age limit

I know that the yellow and orange leaves dancing in the wind remind me to look up every once in a while and that the countryside requires my purity of breath

I know that heroes don't speak of their conquests and that family trees as they age grow deeper and stronger roots

I know that home is always home and that I am forever my parents little girl

I know that mothers hang pictures in just the right place and have the intuition to know when the picture is a little askew

I know that luck does not always mean blessed and blessings are the wish to wish upon

I know that I have much more to learn as I say goodnight tonight

goodnight room

goodnight moon

goodnight cow jumping over the moon

goodnight light and the red balloon

goodnight kittens goodnight mittens

goodnight clocks and goodnight socks

goodnight little house and goodnight mouse

goodnight comb and goodnight brush

goodnight stars, goodnight air*

Good night from this bear

*adapted from Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown

Moving Day

Thank goodness the heavy lifting is over, the sheets are on the bed and the clothes are hung in the closet. The last details need finishing...the curtains are going up today, the cable has to be installed and pictures are lined up against the wall waiting to get their final place up high. But I am settled in relishing in the type of organization that only comes after a move (if done right). I only moved across the hall to a smaller apartment so needless to say the only movers I had to hire were my family. Regardless of where you are moving to or from, it is important to be organized and use the opportunity to go through all of your possessions, give away what you don't use/need/want and start fresh. Moving is stressful, a pain in the neck, time consuming and overwhelming. But stay positive, take each room and task bit by bit and it will soon come together. Ask people to help you. Many hands make light work and you will have much more fun if you have others to giggle with as you are struggling to get the mattress through the door.


I have included below a helpful list from the Queen of organization, Martha Stewart. As you would expect, it is extremely detailed and not all may apply but useful information to keep in mind...

Suggested Materials:
Boxes (various sizes; wardrobe boxes)
Box cutters
Tape (packing, masking, blue painters’)
Tape dispensers
Wrapping material (bubble, plastic, tissue paper)
Labels
Colored stickers

1. Hire a mover (if you are going this route). In a big city it is always a good idea! Ask friends for recommendations for movers. Get quotes from at least three licensed companies.
Be sure to ask the following questions:
- Are on-site estimates offered?
- How is pricing determined?
- Will the movers pack items? (If so, at what additional cost?)
- Is the quote binding or nonbinding?
- What insurance is included?
- What additional charges may arise?

2. Get organized
- Create a binder to hold all move-related paperwork (checklists, contracts, receipts).
- Conduct a room-by-room survey. Sort items to keep, donate, discard, and sell.
- Pack contents of garage, attic, and storage areas, as well as other infrequently used item (books, holiday decorations).
- Assign a color to each room. Mark boxes and furniture with appropriate stickers (see label template).
- Label and number each box. Keep a master inventory list with contents of each box.
- Have utilities and phone/Internet services disconnected in the old home the day after you leave and installed in the new home the day before you arrive.
- Call a locksmith to have your new home’s locks changed on moving day or before.
- Arrange to have a cleaning company prepare the new home before you arrive and tidy the old home after you leave if desired.
- Complete a change-of-address form online (usps.com) or at the post office.
- Notify magazines, newspapers, banks, and credit card companies of your new address.

3. The week of...
- Print an information sheet for the movers. Include the old and new addresses, directions, and your cell phone number.
- Get a cashier’s check made for the movers if necessary. Withdraw cash for the tip.
- Finish packing. Set aside enough clothing for the week ahead, plus a suitcase or two for those items.
- Put small valuables and important documents in a box or bag. Ask a friend to hold on to it until you’re settled, or lock it in the trunk of your car on moving day.
- Create a last-out, first-in box with all day-to-day necessities, including any of the following that are applicable:
Towels
Toiletries
Toilet paper
Basic tools
Cleaning supplies
Medications
Camera (to document items broken in transit)
Snacks
A few dishes and utensils

4. Finally, the big day!
- Do a walk-through before movers arrive to make sure everything is packed.
- Make sure there are no items left behind.
- Give keys to the real estate agent or landlord.
- Arrange for someone to direct the movers at your new home.
- Check items off the inventory list as they are unloaded.
- Inspect for damages. Photograph relevant items before signing the release (sometimes referred to as a bill of lading).
- Test faucets, toilets, utilities, phones, smoke detectors, and security systems.
- Turn on water heater if necessary.
- Begin to unpack. Try and tackle one room at a time, setting up furniture and rugs the way you want them. This way you will feel accomplished after completing one room and ready to move on to the next.

Welcome home...

"All the Single Babies"

Let this be a reminder, whether 2 years old or 92 years old, a little wiggle always makes me giggle.


Make sure you turn up the volume...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ikTxfIDYx6Q

Ready Set Hike

This weekend felt like the first weekend of Fall as I was reaching for my fleece and cozying up to a fire. The leaves are turning and the air smells like smoky pine. I was out in the country with my parents and favorite hunk of a brother who made me laugh until I was crying and doubling over. We did everything from drive around, have a dance party, watch movies and, wait for it, played football! Yes, this Bear played football for the first time in 8 years. Since having back surgery and learning how to "be" in my new body, I have remained hesitant to do anything that might cause any added discomfort. But today, the chill in the air and a new found movement between my shoulder blades made me itch to feel the white stitching gently roll away from my palm.

Okay, Okay. Before you get the wrong impression let me clarify a few things. When I say "play" football, I really mean catch between myself, my father, my brother and a football. And when I say that I have been itching to get back out on the field, well its not like I used to play every weekend before my new back and have felt deprived ever since. But there is something very satisfying after you watch the football leave your hand and go swirling into the air. After not being able to do many of the simple things in life like playing football or running after your not so little brother, I am overjoyed at the fact when I am able to now. I was feeling so normal in fact that I surprised myself and did three cartwheels in a row! I was like a little kid who is excited to show off his ability at playing catch. "Look at me! Look at me!" was what my head was saying to my heart. And through all of the giggles, the scene was even more hysterical because I would miss a catch and waddle over to get the ball all the while my father and brother watched me with smiles on their faces.

This cub is learning the ropes and enjoying every minute of it.

Sole Society

There is a secret society that has one requirement among its members. Red Soles. Not every member knows one another, there is no clubhouse or annual dues. Just the upfront cost of the cherry red leather pounding the pavement is enough to have ladies bonding over their common passion...shoes. Walk by a fellow member on the street and wait for a smile and a nod. Slip a pair on and you will feel instantly like model material, confident and sassy.

The society is comprised of tall and short, black and white, thin and those who feel thinner in them. Some blow an entire paycheck just to own a pair, even if it means eating peanut butter on Wonder Bread for weeks. Some buy them like candy. Whatever the excuse, next time you walk by a "Red Sole" take a cue from her. Strut your stuff ladies.

Right Around the Corner

So I just talked to my newlywed sister in DC, my newly engaged sister in St. Louis, my parents in Connecticut and left a voicemail for my brother in Delaware. How is it, I wonder, that I managed to be the sole sister left in New York City? In the Northeast for that matter. Life happened I guess. One day we were wearing smocked dresses with bows in our hair, worrying about who was coming over for a play date on Friday and the next we are discussing who is going to be where for Christmas before the summers end. Did I mention, my brother is turning 18 in two weeks? 18!!!! I mean that is enough in itself to make me run to check in the mirror for gray hairs.

What does keep me from getting lonely is knowing that they are just a phone call away. And as for my soon to be adult brother, well his age now finally meets his old soul :)

As always and ever,

Bear

Be...

Embody your truth and speak it fearlessly.

Park Avenue Pandemonium

The UN General Assembly. Check. Obama. Check. Sirens on the fives with motorcades dodging restless pedestrians. Check. Check. Check.

I was getting a little perturbed on my fourth day trying to go through my morning routine and having it bombarded with secret service, overwhelming traffic and street closings more than openings. I tried to take the bus and had to get off. The Subway was too crowded. Walking was the only option but even that was challenging as every block within a four block radius of my office was limited to sporadic foot traffic only when a motorcade was not en route. I tried to bat my eyes at the secret service and say that I could act like part of the entourage if they would just kindly let me through. No luck. By the way, who coined the phrase secret service? They are anything but secretive! When I finally made it to my building and up the elevator to my office, I looked across and there were three snipers staring me straight in the eye from the Waldorf's rooftop. Well it felt like they were staring at me. The entire four days of mayhem have been a little unnerving, especially being literally in the line of fire.

But what I try to continually remind myself is that the people protecting our leaders and our leaders that are being protected deal with this every minute of every day. Furthermore, the inconvenience is inconsequential to the larger implications of why they are all here in the first place. The UN General Assembly is an important piece to the preservation of our future. For those who missed President Obama's speech, I urge you to read the very words that he so eloquently delivered yesterday morning. They are words all of us should keep in our memory as we do our part in our own communities to work together to understand and respect one an others differences. After reading the words myself, I welcome the motorcades and barricades, the sirens and the secret service. All of that means that our leaders are working together to keep us safe and our future in the horizon.

Read President Obama's speech to the UN General Assembly at http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/09/23/obama-un-speech-text_n_296017.html.

Prologue

This has been a project in progress for years and now for the first time I share it with you. Just a snapshot of what has been swimming in my head and heart. This is the prologue to my book that someday, somewhere, I hope will be published. Until then, I remain forever grateful.

REBIRTH

My mind tried to go to a different place. A place that was far from the cold hospital room on 71st street. My mother sat on one side of the gurney. My father stood holding my hand on the other. The three of us sat looking at one another as the nurse left the room. She had told a joke and we were still trying to politely laugh. We were saying goodbye.

The operating room felt like a meat locker. Nurses smiled as they lifted their masks to greet me. The hum of the machines silently interrupted the mumbling voices. Warm blankets were wrapped around my naked body. My right arm stuck out while the anesthesiologist tapped on the inside of my elbow with his fingertips. I had goose bumps. My mind tried to calm my eyes. But they saw. Metal. Clamps. Drills. The nurses lifted me by the bed sheets, cradling me in the hammock of white, to the operating table. My head was secured to the table by two Velcro straps. I was asked to test the brace. It was tight enough. My breath echoed in the air as I counted to four and repeated, a trick my mom had shared with me countless times before when I was nervous. A needle was gently forced into my vein once. Again and again. Three times a charm. My veins small and stubborn left the crook of my elbow permanently bruised for the past two years. The anesthesiologist apologized. I sleepily smiled, trying to hold the tears captive from escaping down my cheek. A white cloudy substance was shown to me in a syringe. I nodded and closed my eyes. I took four breaths in and repeated four breathes out. I searched for the familiar scene: a place that was only for my eyes, a place that I escaped to the past two years. Only today, my mind wandered back to my parents. Back to my father’s glossy eyes, remembering his face as he leaned down to kiss my forehead. How we held hands as we journeyed down the long corridor. I remembered reaching the double swinging doors that had STERILE AREA in crimson writing across them. With one last squeeze of my hand, I had to let go. They held each other as I was wheeled away. I kept my hand in the air all the way until we reached the next corner. The next time they saw me, I was sleeping soundly in a coma.

Bear Necessities

A few of my favorite things that help take the grizzly out of a long day.

My new obsession (thanks to my "in the know" cousin) makes my apartment smell like I am out in the country with the window open, the breeze wafting scents from the garden inside. It is called a pomegranate and the ancient Florentine apothecary Santa Maria Novella is the genius behind the terra cotta wonder. The pomegranate not only lasts for years, infusing your home with a delicate aroma, but it also sits beautifully discreet on a bookshelf or front hall table.

The line recently came to the U.S. and can be found exclusively at the uber trendy Lafco in downtown Manhattan. Thankfully for the out-of-towners or those who are to lazy to venture down past Union Square (guilty) can also order the entire collection of products online at www.lafcony.com.

The Mercury is Rising

Did you get the memo? Have you heard? Mercury is in retrograde! Don't try to email, stop the presses, forget appointments, mail and any surfing the web. Basically do anything but communicate.

I thought it a bunch a hooey until my printer stopped printing, my scanner stopped scanning, and my brain stopped being able to translate into articulate thoughts what I was thinking (well maybe that happens when Mercury is hot hot hot too!)

Since 4:46 Monday, September 7th the Cosmo has slowed down and will move backwards through the zodiac for three weeks. Mercury normally turns retrograde three times a year but this year he turns four times. As a rule, retrograde planets bring a period of unresolved issues from the past that rear their heads and a series of events over which we seem to have little or no conscious control. Oh sheesh! It will be a miracle if I get anything done.

So what are we supposed to do for the next two weeks time? This Bear thinks we should all go on holiday.

Discoveries

Who knew that chivalry was alive in the kingdom of New York? Today I noticed that every man I walked through a door with held it open for me and every elevator we left he waited until I got out first.

Who knew that looking up at the bluebird sky as you walk along the busy sidewalk is like taking a two second vacation from the breathless crowds?

Who knew that reading on the bus can be the most favorite time of day, lost in the words of another time and place?

Who knew that a call from someone who you haven't talked to in months is the perfect ending to the day?

This Bear knows now.

Book Club

I have finished The Help! It is a poignant and touching story about the human resolve. You will fall in love with the characters and might even want to cancel your next dinner just to finish. I cried, laughed and cried again. A must read for this Bear.

Remembering

Today we remember. We honor all of those that woke up 8 years ago, got dressed, began their day and never returned home. We pray for those who they left behind with only memories. We are renewed with a sense of purpose to support each other as sisters and brothers, parents and children, friends and neighbors.

To the land of the free and the home of the brave. Let us never forget...

Kindle Karma

Today felt like the first day of school walking into work after the long weekend. People I passed looked longingly at the thought of summer's end but slightly excited for the chill in the air. Some even went so far as to donning their favorite suede boots and cozy sweaters. Me, well I was just excited for my first "official" day at my job. Having worked there all summer, my routine was just as it had been...gym, starbucks, the usual sleepy ride on the bus, and of course the beautiful walk down Park Avenue to my office (most people I herd along with daily look much more executive than I could ever pretend to be which makes me giggle every morning). Something though was just a bit different this morning as I opened my office door. There, on my desk sat a package with my name on it. It was my very own Kindle.

The thought has crossed my mind every day since I began my job in May how lucky I am to have the boss I do. She has become my mentor and friend. On several occasions I have felt unworthy of the seemingly perfect situation I have been granted. I genuinely adore walking into work every day because of her. And so it is no surprise that she, being the thoughtful women she is, presented ME with a gift. As I have joked often since May, I feel like I should be giving HER gifts for all she has done for me. 

So as I sit here tonight, I am the owner of a brand new Kindle, bright pink case and all. I have ordered my very first book, "The Help" (reviews to come) and have already been admired by many of my fellow bus mates. A devotee of hardbacks for years, I swore that I wouldn't like the impersonal screen that seemed to rob the prose of their meaning but yet again I spoke to soon. I can't imagine how I have lasted this long without one! 

Another first for this beaming Bear.

Happy Labor Day

This was the first Labor Day weekend in a long time that I can remember staying home. No long car rides, no traffic meltdowns, no ferry reservations. Just a short train ride out to Connecticut for a relaxing weekend with the parents and a couple of good friends. Two nights at the Open were part of the highlights...one night from the perch of Booboo's luxurious box and one night with Mom and Dad, courtside (no seriously front row and wiping the sweat from Andy Murrays brow!) Thank you M + D for being my "plus ones" this weekend. You engulf me with positive energy and support that sustains my soul. 

All in all, I couldn't have designed a more perfect ending to summer with some of my favorite people. I miss Booboo already, my Parisian fabulousness leaves tomorrow. Come back soon! 

The only thing missing was my two adorable sisters and "hunk of a stud muffin" brother. It just was not the same without you near. Happy Labor Day dear ones. I am missing you from my abode in brisk New York and sending so much love to you. 

Sweet dreams and think good thoughts...

A first time for everything

I have had many firsts in my life (like everyone I guess). The usual...first kiss, first heartbreak, first speeding ticket (yes, I have gotten just one!), first funeral, first sister's wedding, and the list goes on. Every day is bound to have a first something thrown in there somewhere, which keeps life interesting and never boring. 

I have a new first in my life today and that is this blog. I have always wanted to write a book and so here is my chance to share with whoever is willing to listen, free of charge, my thoughts and dreams, worries and frustrations, ramblings and reviews. 

I am known as Bear to my family and now to you. To all the firsts in life...let the journey continue.