A word cloud of President Barack Obama’s speech January 20, 2009.

In a fascinating bit of computer technology and word analysis this site creates word clouds based on most frequently used words in inaugural speeches. Obama, Clinton’s 2nd speech, Lincoln’s 1st, Lincoln’s 2nd…it is an interesting idea for a project… Continue reading →

The entire world is celebrating the ascent of a true leader. The collective hug feels so good and so right. I hope this country does not let go.

In this post there are links to definitions of words and references and many a call to action.  Please read and let the inspiration lead you to where you need to be.  The American Presidents blog, which can be found here has a wealth of Presidential information that will lead to hours of fascinating historical discovery.

January 20, 2009 Barack Obama was inaugurated and delivered the following speech:

“My fellow citizens: I stand here today humbled by the task before us, grateful for the trust you have bestowed, mindful of the sacrifices borne by our ancestors. I thank President Bush for his service to our nation, as well as the generosity and cooperation he has shown throughout this transition.

Forty-four Americans have now taken the presidential oath. The words have been spoken during rising tides of prosperity and the still waters of peace. Yet, every so often the oath is taken amidst gathering clouds and raging storms. At these moments, America has carried on not simply because of the skill or vision of those in high office, but because we the people have remained faithful to the ideals of our forebears, and true to our founding documents.

So it has been. So it must be with this generation of Americans.” Continue reading →

Long Beach Poly Jazz Chorus was graciously on hand to do some caroling.  They were terrific!!  I love the fact that the boys are in suits with cozy scarves to evoke the Holiday Spirit…and the girls are in sleevless dresses!  The Poly Choir Department is such a treasure, they have won many awards including Grammy Grants.  They are now on my list of shows and events to keep track of…The entire music department at Poly is a great resource, look there first when you need some live music to add ambiance and class to your next event!

By far the most popular item at the event!  Almost 50 snowmen went on to prop open doors at homes all over town.  It was an awesome idea (thanks Rachel!) and successful project, because it was easy for the kids to make their project look like the sample.  There were three fleece scarves to choose from.  The cement blocks were already painted white, so the kids the chilly guy a black top hat and some savory features, and voila!  Ready to go snowmen in the store were also available.

Thanks Poly Volunteer!  You can also see the Poly Jazz Chorus in the back ground.  Great!

One of the 20 craft making stations at the 1st annual Handmade Holiday event, was the Holiday Card Making station. The lovely girls pictured here are two of the 27 (!) Long Beach Poly High School volunteers that made the afternoon so enjoyable and well staffed!

Everyone loves to receive a personal hand written card, handmade even better. I myself was lucky enough to get one from my daughter during the event…she handed it to me and said here you go mom! I thought maybe it was a holiday card and should wait, but she insisted I read it right then…it read, “Dear Mom, The Holiday Craft Fair is amazing! You did a great job! I heart you, I’m having so much fun.” It made a little tear come to my eye!

We all have so much to say, be thankful for and share…if given the tools and opportunity it takes just a second to make someone’s day. Over the entire holiday break I had a card station set up in the dining room (I am just taking it down today). Paper, glue sticks, tape, punches, crayons, pencils, paper flowers…a bowl of family photos to throw in too. They made so many cards! We all sat down and created a stack of cards…some with specific recipients in mind, many for any number of friends and family we would be seeing. We have never been as good about thank you notes as we were this year either!! Grandpa received a thank you note with school pictures just days after the wrapping paper was off the guitar.

I think a letter writing/card making station will become a permanent fixture in my home from now on.

Thanks to everyone who made the teacher raffle a huge success! Rachel organized it, Abby wrapped all those boxes, and the teachers, principal Price and staffers donated the wonderful gifts of service…the best kind of gift! It was a fun and festive entrance to the event.

The list of givers and receivers is posted in the office. Enjoy!