Have a Heart

March 31, 2011

Bob Hope was known for his wisecracks, but the comedian, who selflessly gave his time and talents over the decades to entertain American troops around the world, understood the intrinsic value of helping others.  It's called Servant Leadership!  "If you haven't got any charity in your heart," he once said, "you've got the worst kind of heart trouble."

If you have "charity in your heart," it is important that you spell out your wishes each and every day.

To whom should you give?  You might think about where your time is now spent - with the organizations and interests that matter the most to you, such as your place of worship, a service organization, or whatever.

How much should you give?  The answer lies in your heart - namely, what feels right to you.  Whatever your choice, you may be surprised at how the mere act of making this decision lightens your step and makes the world seem friendlier.

My own heart is with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, and the American Heart Assocation.  All three have touched my life in one way or another.  Find where YOUR heart leads you and FOLLOW THAT LEAD!

As always, thank you to those who continue to support the Make-A-Wish Foundation. With your support these incredible children all have the opportunity to see their greatest wishes fulfilled. To find your local Chapter please visit the national MAW website at http://www.wish.org/.  And, refer a child TODAY!

With LOVE and thanks,

Sweet Treats Support MAW!

March 19, 2011

Share the Power of a Wish with some sweet treats from Cheryl's.  In 1981, Cheryl Krueger and her college roommate opened the very first Cheryl's Cookies in Columbus, Ohio.  Starting from just six kinds of cookies, Cheryl & Co. has grown to include gourmet brownies, cake, fancy cookies and more.  As a supporter of the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Cheryl has been so kind to donate approximately 20% of the purchase price of several Make-A-Wish gifts to the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

These delicious treats would be a fantastic gift sent through the mail to a friend in another state that you haven't seen in awhile.  Or to your parents to let them know that you're thinking of them.  Support Cheryl, support the Make-A-Wish Foundation, and give the gift of a sweet treat to somebody special!  Click below!

Cheryl's

Where do I begin?

March 14, 2011

"Where do I begin?"  They are the first words spoken today by my beautiful friend, Danielle Micale, the new Mrs. New Jersey International 2011.  Yes, oh yes that's right, Dani did indeed win the title on Saturday night out of an amazing group of inspiring women.  I just couldn't be any happier or proud of her if I tried!!  Pack your bags, we're going to Chicago in July to cheer her on!  All of Dani's hard work and terrific accomplishments with the Alzheimer's Association made her a standout in her quest for this title.  But, it couldn't have been possible without her loving and supportive husband, Randy.  Together, the two of them are a dream couple of love.  I don't have a crowning photo of Dani yet, but as soon as I do I will post it.

Dani, five years ago we met, and today you are one of my very best friends.  I love you and am so extremely thrilled for your dream come true!  It was my sheer honor to have the ability to crown you!  Baby, you're a FIREWORK!

Jodi, Scott and Sami Cessna did a perfect job of organizing and running a terrific pageant weekend.  Thank you for ALL you have done for me and for making me feel special.  I am forever blessed to be a member of The Cessna Bunch!

Please continue to support the International Pageant organization, the national platform Go Red For Woman, and Dani's personal dedication to the Alzheimer's Association.

http://www.mrsinternational.com/

http://www.goredforwomen.org/

http://www.alz.org/

With all my heart,

A Dream is a Wish!

March 10, 2011

A dream is a wish your heart makes!  As the end of my reign as Mrs. New Jersey International 2010 comes to an end, I have a heart full of joy from this incredible year.  My director, my husband, my doggie, my parents, my family, my friends, my mentor, you've all helped to make my dream come true.  It was a dream my heart had wished for and I am thankful and grateful to EVERYONE for inspiring me, supporting me, and loving me!   FAIRYTALES DO COME TRUE!

With all my love,

Candy Bags

March 8, 2011

Candy bags are a simple yet fun way to give that special someone a tasty treat.  Here's an easy "recipe" to stuff your homemade (or bought) tasty treats: 

Materials (per bag):
Brown paper lunch bag; pinking shears or decorative paper edging scissors; hole punch; pencil; hot glue gun; 12 inches of 1⁄2-inch-wide red-and-white ribbon; calligraphy pens; red metaledge paper gift tags; small wrapped candies.


Directions:
1. Cut upper edge of bag with pinking shears.

2. Carefully fold over upper edge of bag 3⁄4 inch to make flap; finger press in place.

3. Lift flap and punch hole in center through both layers.

4. Fold flap down; mark hole location on bag behind flap.

5. Glue center of ribbon to mark on bag; let dry.

6. Using calligraphy pens, write greetings on gift tags; glue tag’s cord to bag, just below ribbon.

7. Fill bag with your favorite candies; fold down flap and pull ribbon ends through hole. Tie ribbon into bow.

ENJOY!

The arrival of beautiful blooms!

March 7, 2011

Today is the 7th of the month, my favorite number!  Spring is just two weeks away, however in some parts of the country Spring is already blooming.  Here in NJ we still have bare trees, but they are beginning to bud for future anticipated blooms.  Spring flowers and blooming trees are absolutely beautiful and are simply my favorite time of the year.  A beautiful bouquet of flowers offers simple yet striking ways to incorporate the beauty of their form into your home and/or party table.  Roses, peonies, dogwood blossoms, lilacs infuse tablescapes with their lucscious scent.  Pair them with a melange of antique glassware, along with a cup of Earl Grey tea, and you have a vintage setting!

Avis gives to MAW!

February 24, 2011

Avis Offers Make-A-Wish Foundation Friends Discount

My friends, do you have upcoming travel plans that involve a rental car?  If so, please consider booking with Avis.  Avis is extending up to a 25% discount to Make-A-Wish Friends that book their rental car needs with Avis using the Avis Worldwide Discount (AWD) number H749900.  For each completed rental using this number, Avis will donate 5% of the base rate to the Make-A-Wish Foundation and will match the first $25,000.  To learn more, visit www.avis.com/wish.

For Good!

February 23, 2011

As a huge fan of musical theater, namely Broadway, one of my favorite shows is the fabulous Wicked.  Wicked brought the house down when it arrived on Broadway in 2003 with original cast members Kristin Chenoweth, Idina Menzel and Joel Grey.  This wonderfully crafted smash hit of a show has garnered a ton of great songs, however "For Good" closes the show and forever brings tears to my eyes.  (Yes, I'm a sap!)  The song confirms the true friendship, forgiveness and love between two friends.  The words are so beautiful and constantly remind me that so many people have touched MY life and have changed ME for good.  And for them, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for making me who I am and helping me to be a better person.

I’ve heard it said, that people come into our lives for a reason…

Bringing something we must learn and we are led...

To those who help us most to grow, if we let them…

And we help them in return.

Well, I don’t know if I believe that’s true…

But I know I am who I am today, because I knew you.

Like a comet pulled from orbit, as it passes the sun…

Like a stream that meets a boulder, halfway through the wood…

Who can say if I’ve been changed for the better, but…

Because I knew you….I have been changed FOR GOOD!

H O P E !

February 16, 2011

Well, I officially missed Valentine's Day due to Mr. Flu or Ms. Sinus Infection (don't you hate when they come to visit?), but I'm getting myself back on track and back in action again.  Whew!  As I've been lying in bed these last many days I've been focusing on the word 'hope'.  H O P E !  It's such a friendly word.  It's comforting too, as I have received so many messages of HOPE from so many of my dearest family and friends saying, " I HOPE you feel better soon, Heather."  All these notes of cherished HOPE have truly warmed my heart with love.  Thank you for all of them!

The word HOPE can best be described as a wish or desire accompanied by confident expectation of its fulfillment.  That's so true, isn't it?  We awake every morning of our lives in hope of a new day, in hope of feeling fulfilled, and in hope of giving and receiving love.  Today as I awoke I took Lulu around the block for her morning walk and I was instantly greeted by a brilliant bright sun and slightly warmer weather.  It was as if the sun was saying, "Good Morning and Welcome to a new day full of HOPE where anything is possible!"  All our HOPES and dreams can come true if we have the courage to believe them.  What a line, right?!  I HOPE that wherever you are you are feeling HOPEful and happy today.  I HOPE that it was a good day for you.  I HOPE that you accomplished all that you set out to do.  That you had the chance to feel on top of the world with a pocket full of glee.  You deserve it and have worked so hard for it!

I HOPE... for cures to ailments, namely breast cancer; heart disease; lupus; MS; Alzheimer's.

I HOPE... for children throughout the entire world to be granted their most very special wishes through the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

I HOPE... for blue skies, singing birds and pretty rainbows.

And most of all I HOPE that you are feeling loved.  To love and be loved is the greatest gift of all.  God is good!

With faith, HOPE and love,

Cake Boss!

February 7, 2011

IT'S HERE!!!  Gather your family and friends, you DON'T want to miss this very special episode of Cake Boss tonight at 9:30pm EST on TLC.  This is THE episode featuring the Make-A-Wish Foundation of NJ.  Buddy grants the wishes of four very special and oh-so precious young princesses.  The girls flew in from all over the U.S. and spent an incredible week here in New Jersey in October enjoying their wishes at Buddy's bakery and shooting scenes around town.   TLC said, "Buddy bakes with four little aspiring bakers, all suffering from a life-threatening illness, on their personal 'Make-A-Wish' cake.  And it doesn't stop there as Buddy plans to WOW the Foundation with a very special cake!"

You may also want to visit his Facebook page, Buddy Valastro, and witness the incredibly moving tribute taking place to honor Michelle Campilonga, Buddy's first wish recipient!  (I pasted it here too!)  She was actually the person who inspired his friendship with the Make-A-Wish Foundation.  In this video you see will the President of my Chapter honoring Michelle at Buddy's bakery.
 

 
A big heartfelt thanks go to my NJ Chapter for cultivating this valuable relationship with Buddy, his staff and his family.  ENJOY THE SHOW!

It's Your Time!

February 6, 2011

I came across this wonderful piece of advice while traveling recently.  It was published by a recognized authority on leadership and performance, Anthony Robbins.  It goes something like this......

It's Your Time

Everything that happens in your life - what you're thrilled with and what you're challenged by - began with a decision.  Your life is the outcome of the decisions you've made and the actions you've taken as a result of those decisions.  Different decisions produce different results.

If you want to control the direction of your life, you must consistently make good decisions.  It's not what you do once in a while that has an impact on the direction of your life - it's what you do consistently.  Make decisions today about how you are going to live in the years to come.  For your decisions to really make a difference in your life, it's imperative to decide what results you're committed to - and know specifically how these results will transform your life.  It's equally critical to decide what kind of person you're committed to becoming.  Get clear about what you want to be, do and have, and what your life will be like after you accomplish this.  With that clarity, you'll find it becomes easier to make the kinds of decisions that will move you in the direction you desire.

What are your standards?  What will you demand from life?  Decide today if you'll accept life as it is or if you'll live your life on your own terms, at the edge and at the highest level.

With my fondest love and respect,

Breast Cancer strikes again!

January 24, 2011

As I dusted off my pom-poms yesterday and practiced with the NFL Philadelphia Cheerleaders for our performance on February 17th at Drexel University for the Pink Zone Game, I was given the news today that a friend was undergoing a mastectomy due to breast cancer.  She is in her 30's, a wife, and a mother of two precious children.  She came through the surgery well and now it's on to radiation.  May God bless her!

At work today I had an emotional talk with a dear friend.  He and I reminisced about loosing another one of our dear work friends to breast cancer a few years ago.  She was in her 30's as well and battled the dreadful disease for many years.  Doesn't it seem as though everyone knows somebody who has been diagnosed with this incurable disease?

My stepmother is a survivor.  She's onto her 3rd year THIS MONTH!  On January 29, 2008, she underwent surgery to remove the malignant tumor from her breast.  Now, almost three years later, I continue to pray that God hears my prayers to keep her cancer free for the rest of her life.

I will be attending my friend Janis' funeral on Friday.  She lost her life to this disease last Thursday.  A wife and mother of two teenage sons.  She was so young!  She was a beautiful woman!  We have 2.6 million views; please continue to help us fight this hard fight!

www.KomenPhiladelphia.org/video

A dear angel in Heaven!

January 20, 2010

Our God has a new angel in Heaven this evening as our dear friend and fellow Eagles Cheerleader, Janis Hill, passed away this afternoon.  My heart bleeds for her untimely passing, as our community is so very saddened.  There are no words.  My love and respect go out to her husband, teenage sons, family and fellow friends who are mourning her loss.  Breast cancer can continue to take our loved ones, but it will NEVER EVER take our fight down with it!  We are dancing for you now, Janis dear!

www.KomenPhiladelphia.org/video

May God bless you and keep you in His care,

Let's Do It For Janis!

January 19, 2011

Breast cancer doesn't discriminate, especially when it returns 5 years later in other parts of your body other than your breast.  Janis Hill, a longtime friend and former Philadelphia Eagles Cheerleader, underwent brain surgery yesterday to remove two malignant tumors as a result of metastatic breast cancer.  Janis is a wife and mother of two teenagers and although we didn't cheer together, she and I were game day assistant's for Eagles games.  We became fast friends then and continue to be today!

News of Janis's metastatic breast cancer to her brain occurred less than 3 weeks ago and as a result Team Ra-Ra's has decided to rally behind our sister in cheer.  We are dedicating Phase II of "Team Ra-Ras Kick Breast Cancer" to Janis.  Anyone who knows Janis has been touched by her exceptional personality and loving nature.  We are strongly urging EVERYONE to click on our Breast Cancer YouTube video in an effort to reach our goal of 8 million clicks.  8 million clicks means another $100,000 (yes, another $100,000) for the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate via UnitedHealthcare of PA.  Once cheerleader, always a cheerleader, and and we will cheer our sister on, through this difficult time.  WE WILL GET THE 8 MILLION CLICKS, BECAUSE WE ARE DOING IT FOR JANIS!!!

Members of Team Ra-Ras and I attended a Komen Race for the Cure Rally last night held at the Cancer Treatment Centers of America in Philadelphia.  Pat Ciarrocchi of CBS 3 hosted the terrific event as we built team empowerment, captured hope, shared inspiring breast cancer stories, and prayed for Janis.  The Komen Race for the Cure is celebrating its 21st Anniversary this year and, as always, is being held on Mother's Day morning at the Philadelphia Art Museum.  Please consider being a part of our Team Ra-Ras and walk with us!

I beg of you to click on the Team Ra-Ras Kicks Breast Cancer video and continue to help us reach our goal of 8 million clicks.  We have come so far and need to continue the momentum.  Help us become one world without breast cancer!

www.KomenPhiladelphia.org/video

God Bless You,

A fat roll!

January 9, 2011

Let’s just get it all out there… a spade is a spade… and a muffin top is…A FAT ROLL!  There, I said it!  Despite Spanx and every other suction cup created, that’s what it is.  Right, girls?  So why don't we do something about it, fulfill this year's (and every year's) New Year's resolution, and get ourselves back to healthy!  I'm bringing healthy back, how about you?  Ok....well despite that glass of wine that I treat myself to every once in a while.....alright, sometimes more than every once in a while....ok, whatever, regardless wine is supposed to be semi heart healthy, right :) ?

Anyway, all you need is a goal, a plan and a desire to live better.  That's according to the American Heart Association.  The first thing to do is manage your blood pressure.  I visited one of my doctor's this past week and my blood pressure was 80/60.  Seriously!  They wondered if I was a dead woman walking?  Yes, I am dizzy at times (no comments from the peanut gallery!), but otherwise I know that my blood pressure matters and influences my risk for a lupus flare and another stroke.  It's no mystery that I've had a few too many lupus flares these last many years and two mini-strokes, but keeping my blood pressure in a healthy range (less than 120/80) is key.  So, my friends, reduce your salt, get regular exercise, maintain a healthy weight for your height, manage your stress and don't smoke!

Viva Las Vegas!

January 7, 2011

Isn't Las Vegas the best?  I mean, really!  There aren't many more places on earth that you could have more fun with your husband, girlfriends and family than in the "entertainment capital of the world".  It's not just for gamblers who enjoy testing their luck.  It's for you, me and everyone, no matter what age you are!

The 2011 Miss America contestants have descended upon the fun city for the Miss America Pageant being aired LIVE on ABC next Saturday night, 1/15.  And, as some of my friends get packed and depart for Sin City, I wish them ALL a safe flight and a GREAT time!  And if YOU are ever in Vegas, be sure to check out the grand outdoor water show and incredible "Fiori Di Como" ceiling at The Bellagio, "KA" at MGM, "Jersey Boys" at The Palazzo, Las Vegas Boulevard (the strip) at night time, the Secret Garden at The Mirage, and all the great food that every casino offers.  Oh, and play a quarter in a slot machine for me!

Go Miss New Jersey and Miss Delaware and all the other amazing contestants!

God has an Angel

January 4, 2011

I'm speechless!  There are no words to explain how numb I have felt since earlier today to learn of the untimely passing of a girlfriends teenage son.  God surely has a new angel with Him.  My heart, love, friendship, prayers, and sympathy are with Randa and her husband Greg.  My heart is truly bleeding for them!

God bless you today and always,

Designer Blogs

January 2, 2011

A BIG SHOUT-OUT to my blog designer Lauren at Designer Blogs!  She was first recommended to me by my oh-so-incredible mentor and super great friend in Texas, Valerie Hayes!  Valerie has graciously excelled me for years now and I honor her for her excellence in helping me to step outside the box and realize life lessons.  Valerie, you are my ideal!  My gold standard!  (check out Valerie on Facebook!)  And without Lauren at Designer Blogs, I wouldn't have known how my vision of my blog could be translated to the World Wide Web.  Lauren is a visionary in computer design.  A human scrapbook!  Lauren is a member of a gifted team at www.DesignerBlogs.com with Erin as the Owner/Head Designer.

Visit their website, take a look at their amazing portfolio, send them a message to get started.  They're celebrating two years this month and are offering 30% off all custom & premade orders through January 31st.  Now THAT'S a great deal!

Thank you, Lauren and Valerie, for your wisdom, guidance and friendship!

New legs to battle Breast Cancer!

January 1, 2011

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

I heard a bit of sad news today about a friend of mine.  She is a former Philadelphia Eagles Cheerleader and we spent many games together working in the Penthouse Suites of the old Veterans Stadium.  She is a breast cancer survivor, but she learned late last night (yes, on New Year's Eve!) that it has metastasized to her brain.  And today is her birthday!

I called on you back in October and once again I need your help. You may remember that many of my former Eagles Cheerleaders, with the help of the NFL Alumni, organized a partnership with the Susan G. Komen Philadelphia affiliate and United Healthcare of PA.  Back in September, "Team Ra-Ras Kicks Breast Cancer" debuted an on-field dance routine with the help of R&B pop star Jay Sean singing “Do You Remember”.  For each click of the YouTube video made on that day, UHC agreed to donate 10 cents “per click”, up to a million clicks, to the Komen Philadelphia affiliate. In under ONE month, with all your help, we reached and exceeded that goal. $100,000 went directly to help fight breast cancer. Unbelievable!

Now, UHC has “kicked” up their donation, and we are now being offered yet another chance to click for breast cancer.  They have agreed to donate an additional $50,000 to Komen if the video receives 5 million hits.  And ANOTHER $50,000 if it receives 8 million hits.  We are currently at 2.3 million!

 PLEASE help me to reach these goals, especially for my friend who is fighting for her life from this deadly disease.  She has a husband and kids.  PLEASE start clicking away again to help us earn even more money for this dreadful disease that has affected the personal lives of my dearest stepmother, mentors, friends and other dear family members.

Click here:  www.KomenPhiladelphia.org/video

My love and MY thanks to you ALL!

Happy New Year!

December 30, 2010

As 2010 comes to a close, I am thankful and grateful to everyone who has supported me and loved me this year.  I have a wealth of family and friends who are incredible beyond belief, and I wouldn’t be the woman I am today without them.  As I recall elements of this year that have made me laugh, cry and sigh, I am forever blessed by God and the goodness He displays all around me.  With remembrance I think back to the earthquake in Haiti, the 2010 Winter Olympics, the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, the trapped miners in Chile, my Make-A-Wish children, the FDA approval of Benlysta for the treatment of lupus, Elizabeth Edwards, the first total lunar eclipse to occur on the day of the Winter Solstice since 1638, and much MUCH more!  The travels I have made, the places I have seen, the people who have loved me, the job that pays me, the opportunities given to me, are ALL engraved in my heart and will be forever loved by me.  May 2011 prove to be even more spectacular as new advances continue to be researched, love continues to be made, and life continues to be lived.  May YOU be blessed by the grace of God now and forever!

With Love,