Heather Cunningham

The Wishing Place

2012-02-12T21:06:00.000-05:00

February 12, 2012

The Wishing Place ~ the Make-A-Wish Foundation of New Jersey's new beautiful office. The MAWFNJ has granted over 7,000 wishes to date and are growing stronger than ever. Now, they have made their own wish, to construct A Wishing Place to call their own where children across New Jersey can gather and begin their magical wish journey. The Samuel & Josephine Plumeri Wishing Place is complete and the act of wishing is now taking place in a thematic environment free of limitations, confinement, or stress.

A HUGE Congratulations to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of New Jersey for realizing their dreams through the amazing donation of Samuel & Josephine Plumeri. May another 7,000 wishes be granted and more!

WISHES DO COME TRUE

The creator's gift of life unmatched in its celebrity

In hope that all can recognize purpose and opportunity

To care for others found in need of a person, place, or thing

Little ones who want to grow to be a princess or a king

To be special in the eyes of all, police officer, athlete, or mother

Yet so precious that family and friends would have no other

To swim with nature's brightest in exotic realm

Giving hope and strength with love at the helm

Every 40 minutes, a blessing given to sponsor, presenter, or cake baker

Joy felt by all those who observe the works of our great maker

To give and to receive are both His work and intent

The Make-A-Wish Foundation is truly heaven sent!

Please continue to support the Make-A-Wish Foundation. No matter what state you live in, YOU can make all the difference in the world to just one child who is suffering from a life-threatening illness. Thank you for being their wind beneath their wings!

2011-09-22T19:56:00.000-04:00

September 22, 2011

Tomorrow marks the first day of Fall, which in turn officially starts the COOLER WEATHER. There are so many fun things about Fall of which I so look forward to.

I stumbled upon this adorable Fall Bucket List. I'm admittedly a total dork and this list made me squeal with excitement. You too? Print this out, put it in a frame, behind glass, so you can use a dry-erase marker to check-off your activities as you do them. :)

I'm going to pretend this is my front door.

Aren't these owl cupcakes SO cute?! Ekkkkkkkk

I'm thinking 3 of these.... a big one, a small{er} and a mini to make the perfect little family.

HAPPY AUTUMN, FRIENDS!!!

7 Interesting Things About Me

2011-09-21T15:25:00.000-04:00

September 21, 2011

Not that you probably care {giggle}, but I'm going to take some time away from being serious for a moment to talk about 7 interesting things about me.

1. I don’t mind the dentist. Why, you ask? Because my dentist IS THE BOMB! Yes, I used to live in *fear* of the dreaded dental chair, but this husband and wife dental team have turned my fears around. If you don’t like being poked and prodded at I promise you, you will NOT mind this dentist after just one visit. Their office is complete with a darling fireplace and the aroma of sweet-smelling candles wafting in the air.

2. I’m obsessed with wedding shows. I watch “Say Yes to the Dress”, David Tutera’s “Platinum Weddings”, “My Fair Wedding”, “Four Weddings”, and other random wedding shows. Come on girls, I’m not alone on this one and you know it!

3. My iPhone. If I don’t have it near me I instantly panic. I’ve realized that my life before my iPhone was simply worthless. How did I exist without it? Maybe because I can email, facebook, surf the net, and use my apps all from a 2.5” x 4.5” piece of something.

4. When I’ve got things on my mind, I clean. I’m not talking about tidying up, I’m talking deep-down-cleaning. Remove-everything-from-the-cabinet-and-reorganize-type-cleaning!

5. My dog and I kiss. Sorry if this grosses anyone out, but nothing is cuter than when Lulu gives me a big wet slurpy kiss across my mouth. It’s true love! (Oh, and did I mention we drink water out of the same glass?)

6. I like to play tennis, but sometimes I’m a poor sport. Yea, I really should learn my lesson, but sometimes despite ~~all my trash talk~~ my best efforts, it just doesn’t happen.

7. I've surfed the internet to the very end. Yes I research items before buying them, therefore I have surfed the darn net from top to bottom, up and down, inside and out. I admit to being an internet junkie. HA!

Now tell me a few interesting things about YOU, friends!

Remembering

2011-09-10T19:04:00.000-04:00

September 10, 2011

As we pass through life, we often contemplate how others perceive our lives. What do we make of those taken early on 9/11/2001, now ten years ago? Our first thoughts are naturally beyond sympathetic; centered on a life shortened by a tragic ending. And yet, the air traffic controller who was the last person to speak to the crew of hijacked American flight #77 that crashed into the Pentagon found love by the man who sat side-by-side with her through it all that day. For all, 9/11 was a tragedy, but hope, faith and love can be seen on many who survived that fateful day.

Many of us recall the fine details of 9/11/2001. We remember what the sky was like that day and how we reacted upon hearing or watching the news. In remembering the legacy of those lost on 9/11 or taken from our lives for ANY reason, may we reflect on how we ourselves would be missed for the love and kindness we showed others in life. May we spend time pondering the things for which we would like to be known after we depart. What are the verses we would want written or words spoken by others about our contributions? It's not about the way our lives end that matters as much as the way we lived and loved in life.

God Bless America,

ANCHORS AWAY

2011-08-14T20:15:00.001-04:00

August 14, 2011

One has to ask three keys questions to navigate successfully through tumultuous times. Where have I centered my life? What are my anchors to keep me centered where I want to be? What are my beacons to align and guide me to where I need to be?

You can't get to a destination without first knowing where you are. So how do you know you have arrived at that place you desire in life? One of the ways is to examine what you treasure above all else. Is it leisure, freedom to purchase things, time with family, or is it your church or special interest? You might have arrived at a place in your life where you feel uncomfortable having sacrificed other opportunities or centered on a failing cause that makes you question the path you've chosen. Perhaps it's time to examine where you've centered a majority of your thoughts lately. Are you spending your time and energy on what you truly want? Finding this center and determining if it is worth the value you have given it is so important! This is where your heart is and determines your ultimate destiny.

Yes, life is a blessing and many are living whole and happy lives centered about the very thing that matters most to them and others they love. However, finding that comfortable place in life doesn't mean it will always remain that way. Without an anchor, even the largest of vessels would find itself adrift in the current of a vast ocean, pushed about by gusts from the lightest of elements in nature. Even with anchors, we (like boats) can still drift if the length is insufficient or bottom too soft to provide support against powerful forces in life.

So what if we find ourselves wandering from a place or path to find our way home? Our choice of beacons for such guidance can not be moving themselves and provide adequate reference for directions or corrections we must make to stay centered where we belong. Even Polaris, the North Star, points to "true" north only occasionally throughout the seasons as our amazing planet wobbles around its center on its journey in space. If Earth, in all its grandeur, requires anchors like the sun and moon to stabilize its flight, can you imagine how much more we need the same influences in our own lives?

As glorious creations in a masterful design, may we find that center about which we revolve, anchored with strength on that which matters most, and chart a course to improvement with wise choices to light and guide our paths!

Anchors Away,

DEPOSITS

2011-08-07T16:44:00.001-04:00

August 7, 2011

During this time of global financial turmoil, one might be tempted to judge where they stand in life only in terms of monetary measurements. More importantly, are we checking where we stand individually in our relationships with friends, co-workers, and loved ones? Are you deeply in debt or over-drawn emotionally with someone important in your life? Has someone drawn against their positive balance or ruined their credit standing with you by taking more than giving? Although financial management matters in life, this accounting of love is far more crucial to peace and happiness than money.

How can we build a treasure of good will with others in our life? To cope with stress and challenges, we all need to fill our reservoir of good feelings and trust by having a positive balance or excellent history with others. Every smile, every hug, every uplifting word, every act of kindness, patience, or thoughtful action is like making a deposit of love in your relationships. Likewise, every hurtful word or ugly expression is a demand on your relationship and can cause a deficit over time. It's no time to go to the well if it is already dry from overuse!

May we work diligently to fortify our emotional accounts with those we love and need by making steady deposits or maintaining a AAA+ rating where it matters most :).

Same Person

2011-07-28T19:19:00.000-04:00

July 28, 2011

It’s amazing how we change physically, but we are still the same person inside. Indeed, our age and the state of our bodies are always changing. And yet, the principles we hold true and what we think and practice regularly are more telling of who we are. The outer shell is just that, but the inner self is driven by what we’ve made habit in life. Our personality, character, and soul are what others “see” without using their eyes to judge. Are you thirty, forty, or sixty and still feel the same passion for life or do you believe your day in the sun, your moment in the spotlight, or day of glory has passed? Despite external factors that occasionally rain on our parade, we can feel the same sunshine no matter of age or physical condition.

Like the sun, our inner self anchors and reminds us of the bountiful blessings we experience on the journey. Is this your day in the sun? Oh, yes! Love is just as poignant and beautiful as when you first discovered it. Every day presents an opportunity to bask in the sunshine of life; to grow and learn from our experiences! Sure, age and physical circumstances can influence our outlook. Ask yourself who is in control of that outlook and you’ll see the person in the mirror. Are you seeing the same talents you possessed, but more refined? Do you have the same youthful energy and enthusiasm for life or loved ones? Is your faith unshakeable and confidence as high as ever? Or is your life full of the same worry, self-doubt, and disappointments? Let it not be the latter.

Passion is not just for the young, strong, and healthy. Remember that your inner glow is an eternal source of limitless influence on others. Let your light so shine as the glorious person you are and God intends for you to be!

Every 40 Minutes

2011-07-11T21:07:00.000-04:00

July 11, 2011

WISHES DO COME TRUE

The creator's gift of life unmatched in its celebrity

In hope that all can recognize purpose and opportunity

To care for others found in need of a person, place, or thing

Little ones who want to grow to be a princess or a king

To be special in the eyes of all, police officer, athlete, or mother

Yet so precious that family and friends would have no other

To swim with nature's brightest in exotic realm

Giving hope and strength with love at the helm

Every 40 minutes, a blessing given to sponsor, presenter, or cake baker

Joy felt by all those who observe the works of our great maker

To give and to receive are both His work and intent

The Make-A-Wish Foundation is truly heaven sent!

My unending LOVE,

To Believe

2011-07-10T18:54:00.001-04:00

July 10, 2011

This morning started out so utterly sad upon learning of the passing of Laura. She was younger than I. A loving wife. A superb mother of two children. A monumental friend. She endured breast cancer for as long as she possibly could. To think we just had a benefit in her honor less than one month ago. She took a turn for the worse this past week and with her family by her side she passed away. Her physical and emotional pain is gone, but not for a second did she not believe that she wouldn't battle against the disease and win.

The dictionary defines the word believe as to have faith, confidence or trust. To have firm religious belief. To accept something as true, genuine or real. For without believing, what are we, really? We believe in our own selves every day of our lives. We believe in our abilities to battle the world around us. And we believe that we'll always come out winners. For when there are no bullets flying over head, how bad can it be, really? Having a friend pass away that's younger than I can truly help to put my own world in perspective. On this 7th month of 2011, I am grateful to my family and friends who have always believed in me and my abilities. Laura may be in eternal rest, but not first without proving to me that as long as you believe anything is possible.

May God bless Laura, her husband, her children, and her entire world of family and friends,

Taking a Stand

2011-07-02T20:27:00.000-04:00

July 2, 2011

Taking a Stand for Independence

We arrive at summer's first three day weekend. More than that, we arrive at an important anniversary, a milestone in our nation's rich history. A legacy founded on an act of defiance, backed by our creator, and understood by men willing to sign their own arrest warrant and possibly face a death sentence. Such defining moments in life make all the difference. Rather than accepting the rule of royalty, earned only by birth, our fellow Americans took a stand. The odds weren't good for our start-up nation, but would they improve if our oppressor had a soldier posted at the entrance of every home? Patrick Henry thought not in response to the very question he posed to others. "Give me liberty or give me death" will always be part of our heritage. As the signers of the Declaration of Independence believed, as well as generations of Americans since, we value freedom more than life under false rule.

So what can we take from all the celebrations and fireworks? Surely we take pride in our government and rule by the people. More importantly, we too can take a stand! Like those who fought for or sustained our freedoms with their own lives, we can support our continued freedoms through our community involvement and by ruling our own lives. When observing fireworks or hearing our National Anthem, we can strengthen our own resolve to be steady in times of stress at work, school, or at home. We will win our battles if we take a stand, trust in ourselves and God, and perservere to the end.

The splendid life of free people comes with many trials, but few are like the perils of battle that fireworks symbolize. Why find fault with those who stand by us in the struggle of life, when very few experience the real explosions and danger of battle overhead? Take a stand to be kind to others. Be graceful under pressure with a gratitude for life, freedom, and a creator who casts sun and rain on all His children. May we learn from what others have achieved and granted to us with their sacrifice. May we improve our perspective on July 4th, our Day of Independence, when we celebrate our freedoms, pursue what gives us happiness, and choose to be good citizens of this fine country.

May God bless you now and forever,

The Risen

2011-05-30T14:49:00.000-04:00

May 30, 2011

It's Memorial Day, which most see as the start of summer. We also remember it for the sacrifice of those who gave their lives to protect others. While the term "fallen" is used to remember soldiers or first responders, I happen to think the opposite about these fine men and women. Instead, their legacies have "risen" above the ordinary with their bravery, courage, obedience, discipline, and valor. I SO appreciate their greatness and wish the world could honor them with the peace and kindness I see in others around me every day of my life. These are the very things people give their lives to protect; as I do ALL OF YOU.

May we also remember those who have fought who continue to live today. I often feel that those who survived our nation's worst of times are ultimate hero's as well. Those whom have died gave their lives, but how glorifying beautiful to finally come to be with our God, our Father. How joyful a reunion for them! However, those that have lived remain and continue to live today with the scars of their wars, both in mind and body. They are truly iconic men and woman. What they sacrificed, what they gave, what they continue to give today; not only for our country, but for their family.

Thank you to EVERYONE who has fought and continues to fight for our freedom. Your unending patriotism, strength and passion doesn't for one moment go unnoticed.

God Bless America,

2011-05-16T20:16:00.000-04:00

May 16, 2011

DANCE

as though no one is watching you,

LOVE

as though you have never been hurt before,

SING

as though no one can hear you,

LIVE

as though Heaven is on earth.

My wish is that ALL your dreams may come true. Now and forever. In the words of Abraham Lincoln, "Whatever you are, be a good one!"

All my LOVE today and always,

Great honor!

2011-05-16T14:54:00.000-04:00

May 15, 2011

To my sheer joy, I have been selected by the Make-A-Wish Foundation corporate headquarters to market and promote MAW as part of their "blogger community". I'm so very excited and proud! They've selected my blog for the graphics/color design I've used, as well as the supportive/informative content I continually post. I'm SO very honored to have been contacted by them and to have been granted this wonderful distinction. It's so nice and renewing to be noticed every once and awhile, isn't it?!

Over 207,721 wishes have been granted so far in 2011 across the United States. We're only into May and still have many more months to come to fill out the year. In addition to child referrals, there are many other items that MAW is in need of. For example, every year approximately 50,000 roundtrip airline tickets are needed to grant wishes, which amounts to 2.5 billion frequent flyer miles. If you have any miles hanging around that could be donated I can tell you that once donated, your miles will never expire and are used to support wishes across the entire country. From Continental to USAirways to Delta to United, this is one simple way you can help grant a life-changing wish experience. Please check out http://wish.org/help/donate_airline_miles for more information.

A very special THANK YOU to all of you who continue to help and support my MAW campaign. Please know that YOU single-handedly have helped to give hope to many many children battling for their lives.

"If you find it in your heart to care for somebody else, you will have succeeded." ~ Maya Angelou

With pure adoration,

Everyone has a 'Suzy Komen'!

2011-04-22T20:58:00.000-04:00

April 22, 2011

Everyone has a 'Suzy Komen'! A Susan G. Komen for the Cure that is! My personal Suzy's are my stepmother, my Philadelphia Eagles Cheerleader director/choreographer/mentor, my former boss, my former boss' wife and a few others. Who are YOUR Suzy Komen's?

On Mother's Day, Sunday, May 8th I'll be walking in the Susan G. Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure in Philadelphia. Susan was only 36-years-old when she passed away. Nancy Brinker, her sister, founded the Susan G. Komen for the Cure over 25 years ago. What began as a promise to her dying sister has evolved into the world’s largest grassroots network of breast cancer survivors.

I'll be walking with Team Ra-Ras! You all know about them, you've seen my previous blog postings. I encourage everyone to continue to support "Team Ra-Ras Kicks Breast Cancer" on YouTube. We have 3.4 million clicks already. We need to reach 5 million. With 5 million comes $50,000 from UnitedHealthcare to the Komen Philadelphia affiliate. www.komenphiladelphia.org/video

Thank you for all your suppport,

The JOY of Taylor!

2011-04-04T20:42:00.000-04:00

April 4, 2011

"It was everything I hope for and more, it was the best time of my life!" ~~~ Taylor

I couldn't be more thrilled to see one of my wish children featured on the home page of the Make-A-Wish Foundation of New Jersey website. This is Taylor! Cutie pie Taylor's wish was to swim with the dolphins in Hawaii. She did it and check out how incredibly CUTE she is! You can truly see the sheer JOY in her eyes. I blogged about her last year, so you might remember reading about her then. Click on the below logo to see Taylor in all her glory!

The MAWFNJ rocks and I thank everyone who continues to support this truly inspiring and incredible foundation.

With LOVE,

You're talented!

2011-04-02T20:43:00.001-04:00

April 2, 2011

In many ways there is nothing more rewarding than to lay down at night knowing that you helped someone else become better. You not only fulfilled your purpose for that day, you did your best. It may have been just a two-minute phone call where you encouraged someone, or perhaps you donated to your favorite charity to help fund a cure, or perhaps you gave of your time to volunteer at an event, or maybe it was simply a quick email to tell someone you loved them. Whatever it was, you should feel good about yourself because you used your talent, your influence and your experience to accomplish a goal and helped someone feel good. Don’t make the mistake of going through life ingrown. God has given you the natural ability to help other people, and always remember that God has brought people into your life for a purpose. Be aware of what you can do for others and put that awareness to good use!

Continue to support your favorite charity, and remember that if you ever come in contact with a child struggling from a life-threatening illness, please refer that precious being to the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

May God bless you today and every day,

Have a Heart

2011-03-31T21:17:00.001-04:00

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!

2011-03-19T20:42:00.000-04:00

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?

2011-03-14T21:11:00.001-04:00

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!

2011-03-11T01:29:00.000-05:00

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

2011-03-08T23:14:00.000-05:00

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!

2011-03-08T23:07:00.001-05:00

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!

2011-02-24T20:03:00.000-05:00

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!

2011-02-23T20:55:00.001-05:00

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 !

2011-02-16T13:40:00.000-05:00

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!

2011-02-07T19:52:00.000-05:00

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!

2011-02-06T14:51:00.000-05:00

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!

2011-01-24T21:52:00.000-05:00

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!

2011-01-20T19:36:00.000-05:00

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!

2011-01-19T13:43:00.000-05:00

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!

2011-01-09T19:31:00.001-05:00

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!

2011-01-07T21:11:00.000-05:00

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

2011-01-04T18:42:00.000-05:00

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

2011-01-02T11:52:00.001-05:00

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!

2011-01-01T13:43:00.001-05:00

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!

2010-12-30T22:06:00.000-05:00

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,

National Believe Day!

2010-12-10T22:49:00.000-05:00

December 10, 2010

As I sit here on this cold Friday night here in New Jersey I recall the hours that went by today and rejoice in knowing that TODAY was an UNBELIEVABLE day! For anyone who has dreamed of wishes coming true, well I am here to tell you that THEY DO! All you need to do is dream! You see, today is Macy's National Believe Day with the Make-A-Wish Foundation. That means that it's double the Santa Mail at all your Macy's stores and double the wishes being granted by every chapter in the United States. This 2nd annual Day is sponsored by Macy's department stores and celebrates the true spirit of this Christmas season, which is to inspire kindness and generosity from coast to coast. Across the entire United States. I honestly believe that humanity and charity to others is the key to success. In giving, we are receiving!

Santa's sleigh is alive and well and if you listen close enough you will begin to hear his sleigh bells ring. Dream big, make your wishes count, and oh one other thing, clean out your chimneys so Santa doesn't get too dirty on his way down to surprise you with all your wishes come true underneath your Christmas tree on December 25th, especially to those children who battle with serious illness and simply want to be kids again. A BIG thank you to Macy's and of course, my favorite, the Make-A-Wish Foundation!

Just believe,

Goodbye, Elizabeth Edwards!

2010-12-07T20:17:00.002-05:00

December 7, 2010

I lost a dear friend today. Elizabeth Edwards! Despite never have met her in person, I developed a liking to her back in 2007 when I read her autobiography "Saving Graces". She charmed me much like she charmed America. Her smart, likeable, down-to-earth personality caught my attention as much as it did the media's. In fact, back when I was honored to win the title of Mrs. New Jersey US 2007, I was asked in my onstage interview what book I had read most recently. My response was HER BOOK! Despite party differences, Elizabeth was a mentor to me. She was an honorable woman and I looked up to her. I feel a sudden sense of loss and grief due to her passing.

The very last sentence of "Saving Graces" ends with, "I've had a good life, and I just want to thank you for it." Well, thank YOU, Elizabeth! My heart goes out to you. And may you finally be reunited with Wade, your son, under the wings of the Angels flying in Heaven.

Love,

Happy Birthday, Mr. Disney!

2010-12-05T15:36:00.000-05:00

December 5, 2010

Ahhhh, Walter Elias "Walt" Disney would have been 109-years-old today, having been born on December 5, 1901. What a true iconic hero! He is the namesake of the theme parks we all know and love, spanning all over the world from Florida, California, Tokyo, Paris, Hong Kong. We ALL continue to benefit from his creation and vision first developed some 40+ years ago. And that lead mouse "Mickey" is still a huge icon for children everywhere. (I know he is for my little Charlie!)

Who knows if he even knew how important his life was going to be to children who still today dream of going to his theme parks. Walt Disney World (Florida) continues to lead the pack every year as the most requested travel wish for kids who are granted wishes through the Make-A-Wish Foundation. The Magic Kingdom, and all the parks, turn themselves inside out to make sure that every wish child who enters their gates has the absolute time of their lives. No tiny detail is overlooked. No stone unturned.

Happy Birthday, Walt Disney! A personal "thank you" from me for giving many of my wish kids the opportunity to forget about their illnesses, to live their dreams in a loving, safe environment, and to experience the most magical place on earth!

Warmly,

Wishes granted daily

2010-12-03T22:47:00.001-05:00

December 3, 2010

After finishing a very busy week at my job, I still wasn't too busy to continue to grant wishes to 'one child at a time'. Little Charlie was my darling this week! Charlie is a dear, precious boy with a heart of gold. Like many, he suffers from cancer, but his strength, attitude and courage are impeccable. I'm mentoring a new wish granter, her name is Suzanne. She's a wonderful woman who will make a fine lead wish granter one day very soon. Together we are working on Charlie's dream wish; what an incredible joint effort and time together!

Also, my Taylor just returned from her special wish to Hawaii to swim with the dolphins. Although I can't publicly post pictures of her, this photo of the 'kissing dolphins' best describes her magical wish come true. :) It literally brought tears to my eyes to know first-hand the magic that the Make-A-Wish Foundation of New Jersey brought to her. Now, she will always remember back to this amazing wish come true and know that it was given to her with hope, strength and joy.

I also want to send out an extremely big THANK YOU to one of my best friends, Danielle and her husband Randy. They were recently on a cruise over Thanksgiving with Royal Caribbean. Little did they know that Royal Caribbean and the Make-A-Wish Foundation were teaming up for a special "Wishes at Sea" fundraiser. Dani and Randy participated in the walk-a-thon in MY honor (WOW!) and I just can't thank them enough. I love you both, Dani Dear and Randy, thank you so very much for supporting my efforts!

I continue to thank the Make-A-Wish Foundation of New Jersey with whom all these incredible wishes would not be possible. I've grown very close to the wonderful people who work there, as they are my friends. As I've mentioned before, close to 800 children are diagnosed EVERY YEAR in the state of NJ with a life-threatening medical condition. We are only referred about 400 of them annually. That's still 400 remaining every year that do not have the chance to have their fondest wishes come true. What we need most are those referrals! Children between the ages of 2.5 and 18 years of age are eligible. Their illness must be life-threatening, but not terminal. Please PLEASE think of the MAWF when you come in contact with an ill child.

With Love,

December 1

2010-12-01T10:34:00.000-05:00

December 1, 2010

FINALLY! IT'S DECEMBER 1ST! God is good! Although Santa arrived at all our parades on Thanksgiving Day, for me December 1st marks the day that officially starts this glorious Christmas season. For anyone who watched (or was lucky enough to attend) the NYC Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on NBC last night you saw such talented individuals perform around what is this years magnificent 74-foot Norway spruce, donated by a loving family in Mahopac, NY. This 75-year-old beautiful tree is decked with 30,000 multi-colored LED lights on five miles worth of wire. The incredible star that adorns the tippy top is crafted by none other than my favorite brand, Swarovski, with 25,000 crystals and one million facets, measuring 9.5 feet in diameter. If you have ever been to NYC's Rockefeller Center at Christmas time then you know how wonderfully magical it is. It's one of my most favorite places on earth! The scene goes something like this ~ a grand majestic tree dancing in sparkling lights, ice skaters twirling on their blades, the waft of chestnuts roasting on an open fire, shoppers hustling and bustling to find that perfect gift, the Radio City Rockettes high-kicking their way into your hearts, the Rock Center Cafe for when you get ravenously hungry, Saks Fifth Avenue with their adorable holiday window displays, trees adorned with snowflakes and twinkling lights from head-to-toe. I could go on and on, but you get the drift. The gorgeous Christmas Tree was officially lit last night and will stay lit until January 7, 2011. If you have the chance to visit, please do so, and even take a chance and hug the person next to you, I guarantee it'll be oh-so-magical!

For those of you that did catch the NBC show last night you saw the incomparable David Foster, one of my all time favorite musicians. As a record producer, composer, singer and songwriter he is mostly noted for discovering successful singers such as Celine Dion, Josh Groban, Michael Buble and an incredible young girl named Charice. Charice did in fact perform at the Tree Lighting Ceremony last night with David Foster accompanying her on the piano; they performed one of my favorite Christmas songs entitled "My Grown Up Christmas List". It was absolutely spine tingling!

But....as that songs reminds us, at this holiday time we must NOT forget that there are wars still being fought in our world. Our military has been and continues to fight for our freedom. Families are still separated and will continue to be separated during this holiday season. Let us not forget their call to duty. Let us not forget to praise them and give them thanks. Here is a version of "My Grown Up Christmas List" dedicated to all the brave men and women who will be spending their holiday's away from their loved ones.

May God continue to bless you and keep you in His care.

A million reasons to BELIEVE!

2010-11-28T19:14:00.000-05:00

November 28, 2010

If you haven't yet seen this adorable commercial by Macy's on TV featuring Virginia herself, mailing off her Christmas letter to Santa Claus, please do take a minute to view it. It's oh-so-cute and reminds all of us to drop off our letters to Santa, as each letter dropped into Macy's Santa Mail Box is a $1 donation directly to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, up to ONE MILLION DOLLARS! Yes, Virginia, there IS a Santa Claus!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-25T18:52:00.000-05:00

November 25, 2010

As the first snowfall of the season was falling here in New Jersey today I couldn't help but think to myself that God was delivering a powerful message by allowing these big fluffy flakes to fall on this very special day of thanks. It hasn't snowed once yet this season, but it did today, on Thanksgiving! What are the odds? As I watched the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade live from New York City I smiled with happiness knowing that Erika and Brian's Make-A-Wish dreams to "attend the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade" were coming true. Six-year-old Erika lives with neuroblastoma (a nerve tissue cancer) and Brian, a 16-year-old, lives with muscular dystrophy. Their wishes lovingly came true today because of donations from those who support the Foundation. Thank you to ALL who graciously and givingly donate to allow these joyous wishes to come true.

It's officially the season of giving now and if you are brave enough to battle the crowds on Black Friday tomorrow, please visit your nearest Disney Store. Up through November 30th, Disney Stores across the country will be selling reusable holiday shopping bags to benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation. $1 from the sale of each bag will be donated to the Foundation, up to $50,000. http://www.disneystores.com/

And, don't forget to visit your local Macy's to drop off your letter to Santa. Remember, each letter dropped into Santa's Mailbox is one more dollar ($1.00) that Macy's will donate to the MAWF, up to $1 million dollars in total. Yup, that's One Million Dollars! http://www.macys.com/

Happy Thanksgiving With Love,

Destiny!

2010-11-19T19:59:00.000-05:00

November 19, 2010

The word DESTINY, as defined by the Merriam-Webster dictionary, is "a predetermined course of events often held to be an irrestible power or agency". The first known use of this noun was back in the 14th century and is still used today by many to describe their fortune. Destiny is an extremely powerful word that I have found myself coming in contact with more and more lately. Just within the past two weeks I was introduced to someone at my job who has lupus and she asked me to explain it to her in non-medical terms. She is the mother of 5 children and is very scared about her future. One of my best friends, whose unemployment benefits ran out this week, finally got the call that she got the job. And one of my Make-A-Wish kids got his recent MRI results back and they were in fact CLEAR; life can go on for him. I could go on and on, but you get the drift. Destiny is what happens when life takes over. Destiny is God speaking to us in His loud voice. Are you listening? If you're not then you better! We can all create our own destinies by trusting in those around us who take care of our hearts. Allow yourself to have faith to those who care about you, as they are the ones who make your life worth living. To love and be loved are the greatest gifts of all!

Your love is the greatest gift I've ever got....

I'll always keep it close to my heart!

As always, thank you to those who continue to support the Make-A-Wish Foundation. With your support these incredible kids all have the opportunity to see their greatest dreams fulfilled. To find your local Chapter please visit the national MAW website at www.wish.org.

Love,

Giving Thanks!

2010-11-14T17:46:00.000-05:00

November 14, 2010

I am so thankful for the people in my life who have helped to mold me into the woman I am today. I have an eternally grateful heart that continually thanks God for giving me the gift of life.

The following is an excerpt from my "About Me" page that truly sums things up.....

"But my life is grand. Really grand! I have been given the special gift of delivering powerful news to children about their most magical wishes when they are dealing with their own medical problems. What an unbelievable opportunity! But then again, I'm just me doing what I love with the people I love the most. Doing things that I have been called to do. Creating moments of sheer happiness every single day of my life. Being positive. Not sweating the small stuff. Life is indeed good. I am thrilled, humbled and honored to have today, tomorrow and the future to experience life at its greatest. Simply by just being ME!"

May the excitement of the upcoming holiday seasons give you the warmth and good cheer you so naturally deserve!

With Love,

November 12th!

2010-11-12T21:27:00.000-05:00

November 12, 2010

This is a day to remember! It was absolutely glorious!! God is good and I feel alive. I can not say more about the picture perfect Fall day we had here in NJ today. The sun was shining, the leaves on the trees have never been more colorful nor more brilliant. Not a cloud in the sky for miles to see. In more ways than one the sense of renewal, happiness and love are indeed here and I feel them!

Once again the Make-A-Wish Foundation of NJ came through. After meeting with 12-year-old Rebecca in her home many days ago I had the distinct pleasure of phoning her mother today to give her the joyous news that "Rebecca is going to Disney World"! Over her birthday no less! Rebecca is an incredible girl so very much loved by her incredible family. Delivering messages like this is what life is all about. Loving and giving to those around us, to feel good about life, is what we should all live for. No medical charts, doctors or IV's. Just Mickey Mouse and ALL his friends!

Even as the hours of sunshine diminish day-by-day, and as darkness settles in, tears still well up in my eyes (literally!) when I reminisce about the truly joyous day that November 12th was. And.....if you have a chance, listen to a few of your favorite songs or read a verse from your favorite poem, and know that there are good people in our country who are making a difference in the lives of others. Thank you to those who have and are making a difference in my life!!

Love,

Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus!

2010-11-09T21:06:00.000-05:00

November 9, 2010

We survived the ghosts and goblins of Halloween and now it's a little over two weeks away until Thanksgiving. I'm not a turkey kind of gal, pass me Italian instead, but that's for a different day and a different post. :) Instead it's that time of year once again when I put on my elf hat for the Make-A-Wish Foundation and Macy's department stores! With the huge support of Macy's, the BELIEVE holiday campaign is now in your local Macy's store. The incredible and nostalgic campaign was inspired by the New York Sun's famous “Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus" editorial from 1897 and includes letter-writing "Believe Stations” in Macy's stores across the country. For each letter dropped in Macy's Santa Mail, Macy's makes a $1 donation to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, up to one million dollars. Yup, $1,000,000! And I'm one of the elves that has the distinct privledge of supporting my local Macy's to pick up the letters and deliver them to Santa Claus!

Write a letter to Santa and help make wishes come true! Bring your stamped letter to your local Macy's and drop it into Santa's Mailbox. Please visit this special website for more information and to create your very own special letter. And, always remember that the Make-A-Wish Foundation grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy. Please help to spread the word !

As always, please continue to refer children between the ages of 2 1/2 and 18 years of age who have been medically diagnosed with a life-threatening illness. Their greatest wish is counting on you!

$100,000 for Team Ra-Ras

2010-11-05T19:28:00.000-04:00

November 5, 2010

On October 5, The Philadelphia Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, teaming up with the NFL Alumni Philadelphia Chapter Cheerleaders (otherwise known as Philadelphia Eagles Cheerleader alumni) and UnitedHealthcare of PA, launched the organization's first-ever viral video, created to generate breast cancer awareness on a worldwide stage, as well as raise significant funds to empower the local and global breast cancer movements. The video showcases 136 former Philadelphia Eagles Cheerleaders (many of my friends and squadmates) that practiced all summer long and came together on September 11th. Ranging in age from 25-64 years, and including eight breast cancer survivors, the performance was composed of five segments, each created by a former cheerleader choreographer and reflecting the dance style from each decade, starting with the 1960's. Set to "Do You Remember" by Pop and R&B sensation, Jay Sean, Philadelphia-based UnitedHealthcare of PA was the exclusive sponsor of the video. The goal was to drive at least 1 million views of the video before the end of this year with 10 cents for each view being donated to the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. With great pride, I am thrilled to say that 1 million was in-fact REACHED LAST NIGHT and $100,000 (yes that's $100,000) will be donated to Komen Philadelphia by UnitedHealthcare of PA. And, the 1 million target was reached not only by the end of the year, but WITHIN 30 DAYS!

I WANT TO SEND OUT A HUGE THANK YOU TO ALL OF YOU WHO SUPPORTED THIS INCREDIBLE CAUSE. WITHOUT YOU THIS WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN POSSIBLE! FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART - THANK YOU!!!

Please continue to enjoy the video, as it was made with much love and a huge amount of heart! www.KomenPhiladelphia.org/video

With Love and Thanks,

What makes you....?

2010-11-04T21:23:00.001-04:00

November 4, 2010

What brings you comfort at home? What makes your heart pitter on a hard day? What do you look forward to at night? What is your most peaceful part of the day? What is your most comforting routine? Maybe it’s your favorite stack of books? A comforting smell, like a scented candle burning? Or perhaps it’s your loved one giving you the hug you desire and yearn for? Whatever it is, I hope that wherever you are, you are feeling the love that you deserve. May God continually bless you and keep you in His care.

Don't Stop Believing!

2010-11-01T20:08:00.000-04:00

November 1, 2010

Today is the start of a brand new month and to think that we only have 54 days left until Christmas. (egads!) Today was a day of joy and sadness, life and death, renewal and loss, hope and grief. One of my Make-A-Wish children departed in a stretch limousine bright and early this morning for her dream destination come true ~ to swim with the dolphins in Hawaii. Her happiness and joy were beyond compare and touched my heart in so many ways! (Thank you, MAWFNJ!) And yet one of my very best friends lost her sister to an untimely and heartwrenching death. In the blink of an eye my joy turned to sadness and I was left feeling depressed and unmotivated. But....in life and death I know that God has a plan for all of us. I am a FIRM believer that everything happens for a reason and that the one inevitable force that continues beating through our good times and bad will see us through it all.

To quote the words from an email I received recently from a friend...

May you always remember to live every day to the fullest;

Each minute is a blessing from God;

May you never forget the people who make a difference in your lives, as they are not the ones with the most credentials, the most money, or the most awards.

They are ones that care for us!

So, live simply.

Love seriously.

Care deeply.

Speak kindly.

And...leave the rest to God!

Love,

I'm only human!

2010-10-30T21:07:00.001-04:00

October 30, 2010

This past week has brought a myriad of feelings and emotions from the very deep core of my soul. I granted two wishes with Make-A-Wish, Tom had a colonoscopy, my mother and stepmother have been quite ill, I found a lump along Lulu’s spine, I felt my lupus flaring, the Philadelphia Phillies broke my heart, my job has been stressful, my health insurance benefits are changing dramatically on January 1st, and I yearn for people and places that aren’t here. I know it sounds like I’m complaining, but I honestly don’t mean it that way. I’m just a human being going through the normal thoughts and feelings of a busy week as one tends to have.

Granting the two wishes with the Make-A-Wish Foundation of NJ this week were the absolute highlights! What sheer joy it was to meet with Rebecca and Taylor. Walt Disney World and Hawaii, respectively, will never be the same once they step foot there. I can wholeheartedly say that I have never EVER come in contact with another organization that brings such HAPPINESS into the hearts of everyone it touches. HONESTLY, it’s absolutely unbelievable! MAW does so much for SO many people, I simply can’t explain in words how incredibly amazing this foundation truly is. Thank you to ALL who support it!

This week, however, I was reminded about my own life-threatening illness. Lupus. I know I have it, I know it plagues my body, I know that it makes me feel like I constantly have the flu. But, I don’t like to give in to it. Yes, sometimes I simply can’t help but give in to it, but otherwise I keep it in the far reaches of my being. The world is not about me, it’s about other people. I know that and I never want that to change. The world of lupus does, however, exist out there and it wouldn’t be fair of me not to recognize it and speak of it occasionally. On Thursday, I received an update from the Lupus Research Institute advising me that our nation’s leading lupus research investigators may have an innovative new discovery. A simple blood test may be able to predict lupus flares in the future. This absolutely remarkable (REMARKABLE!) discovery is now licensed for development. A test like this is so very critical because there is currently no way to predict when a person with systemic lupus (like me) is moving from remission into a flare. More than 1.5 million Americans (and millions more worldwide) suffer from this chronic and unpredictable autoimmune illness in which the body’s immune system attacks otherwise healthy tissues and organs. With this new discovery at least I know our donation funding is helping to move this disease forward… one little baby step at a time!

And, as always, please "Share in the Power of a Wish" and refer a child to the Make-A-Wish Foundation today!

With Love,

National MAW Conference

2010-10-25T23:46:00.000-04:00

October 25, 2010

The National Make-A-Wish Conference was just held in Orlando and it was a great time! Those that attended said it could not have been more inspiring than to sit in the opening session at the "happiest place on earth" with 90 wish families who were in Disney World for their wishes, as well as by over 400 Make-A-Wish employees from all over the world?!?! The raw emotion on the faces of CEO's, Wish Coordinators, Development Directors, Volunteer Managers and so many others were reminded in that moment why we do what we do!! Many wonderful people from other state chapters were met. Many new things were learned about outreach. Volunteer management and training were taught and all that knowledge was brought back to my state chapter here in NJ (and your state chapters too) by our NJ Chapter Director of Outreach & Volunteer Services. Such key knowledge that will no doubt benefit current active volunteers, like myself, along with referral sources, and ultimately, our wish families! I am so proud and happy to be "doing what I'm doing" with the Make-A-Wish Foundation!! I urge you to volunteer or donate yourself, so that you can feel the chills run up and down your arms when a child with a life-threatening condition says "thank you" to you with a huge smile of their face!

Please continue to bring in those referrals!

With Love,

Do you want my crown?

2010-10-21T22:06:00.000-04:00

October 21, 2010

Do you want my crown? If so, the time to act is NOW! Mrs. New Jersey International 2011 will be held at Rider University on March 12, 2011. I've had the time of my life as the reigning Mrs. NJ International 2010 and I SO encourage you to apply to become my successor. My wonderful director, Jodi Cessna, is currently taking applications and awarding local titles as we speak.

I've had too many incredible experiences to list, but if you scroll down through my blog you will see all the posts and pictures from my year. The national pageant this past July was absolutely one of the VERY BEST experiences of my life. The national director is amazing, but even more so were the other state and regional titleholders I competed with. I've made many lasting friendships because of it.

If you're looking for a well-run, platform oriented, glamorous, exciting and special time, please consider competing in Mrs. NJ International 2011. I can honestly tell you, you will be very happy you did!

Please visit the state website at www.NJPageants.com or the national website at www.MrsInternational.com. Or call me, email me, or visit me (or Jodi) on Facebook if we're friends.

Welcome to My World!

2010-10-19T19:47:00.002-04:00

October 19, 2010

Take a sneak peak inside my world for a moment. I love ribbons! I love bows! I love paint! I love glue! I love to create!! This time of year begins the start of my creativity flowing. I want to carve pumpkins. I want to decorate my house in autumn leaves from the yard. Scarecrows and ghosts abound. And soon I will begin my Christmas cards, my Christmas presents, and my Christmas decorating. But for now my house fits right into this Fall season time of year. My home is decorated in burnt reds & oranges, browns, hunter greens, and golds. I love this palette of colors and couldn’t think of living in any other colors otherwise. But a girl must also sparkle and that’s what I think of with Christmas around the corner. Sparkling gems of silver and gold. Twinkling lights. Rhinestones galore. My toasting Waterford wine glasses that catch the light of candles lite nearby that create reflections as sparkly as the Swarovski rhinestones I work with.

May you enjoy this month and the coming months ahead! We are in the start of a magical time of year complete with the beautiful changing of the seasons. At least we are here in New Jersey. And … you just never know what may be peeking around that lamp post ... is it a friendly ghost? Or a goblin? BOO!

With Love,

Incredible Numbers!

2010-10-15T22:11:00.000-04:00

October 15, 2010

Your generosity has been transformed into MOMENTS OF JOY!

Thank you to everyone who has supported the Make-A-Wish Foundation! The fiscal year just ended on August 31st for the national organization and the numbers are thrilling!

13, 582 Wishes were granted across America!

23, 736 Volunteers graciously gave their time & talents!

Most importantly, you helped us create magical experiences for children facing life-threatening medical conditions. I am SO proud to be a member of this incredible organization and I thank you for everything YOU have done to contribute to the success and accomplishments of numbers like these. Please keep the momentum going and let's make this next fiscal year even better! Please refer a child today, don't delay, their grandest wish is waiting for you!

With Love Always,

Our Buddy!

2010-10-13T14:20:00.000-04:00

October 13, 2010

He did it again. Our buddy, Buddy, that is!

He granted another magnificent and touching wish in NJ for the Make-A-Wish Foundation of NJ once more, to a precious and beautiful young lady who loves 'Cake Boss', especially the man behind the show! And trust me when I tell you, the feeling was mutual by the time she left Carlo's Bake Shop! She and Buddy, and...... the whole crew, laughed, smiled and forgot about doctors and medical testing, chemo and radiation.... if just for the moment! They created memories - and a scrumptious cake - to get thru any tough days that may lay ahead! Thank you, Buddy!

Here Buddy is teaching his new BFF how to make a rose. Is that not the most beautiful rose you've ever laid your eyes on?!!

And, as always, please "Share the Power of a Wish" and refer a child to the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

With Love Always,

The Set of The Sail

2010-10-12T20:39:00.000-04:00

October 12, 2010

One thing I’ve come to understand throughout the course of my life is that ‘change’ is inevitable. Change may happen next week, next month, or 5 times already today. As they say, “The only thing constant is CHANGE!” Just as the seasons turn, it often shocks me how people tend to get upset when change occurs in their lives. We have a habit of viewing it as a bad thing, as a scary thing, as a “why did this happen to me” thing. Sure, change is scary, but it’s also a way for us to grow. To try new things. To continue to place our trust in God knowing that for everything there is a grand plan in mind. This short article by Jim Rohn is wonderful. Go ahead, read it. Then ask yourself, “What will I do when the winds of change do, in fact, change?”

The Set of The Sail

Jim Rohn

In the process of living, the winds of circumstances blow on us all in an unending flow that touches each of our lives.…

What guides us to different destinations in life is determined by the way we have chosen to set our sail. The way that each of us thinks makes the major difference in where each of us arrive. The major difference is the set of the sail.

The same circumstances happen to us all. We have disappointments and challenges. We all have reversals and those moments when, in spite of our best plans and efforts, things just seem to fall apart.…In the final analysis, it is not what happens that determines the quality of our lives, it is what we choose to do when we have struggled to set the sail and then discover, after all of our efforts, that the wind has changed directions.

When the winds change, we must change. We must struggle to our feet once more and reset the sail in the manner that will steer us toward the destination of our own deliberate choosing. The set of the sail, how we think and how we respond, has a far greater capacity to destroy our lives than any challenges we face. How quickly and responsibly we react to adversity is far more important than the adversity itself. Once we discipline ourselves to understand this, we will finally and willingly conclude that the great challenge of life is to control the process of our thinking.

Learning to reset the sail with the changing winds rather than permitting ourselves to be blown in a direction we did not purposely choose requires the development of a whole new discipline. It involves going to work on establishing a powerful, personal philosophy that will help to influence in a positive way all that we do and that we think and decide. If we can succeed in this worthy endeavor, the result will be a change in the course of our income, lifestyle and relationships, and in how we feel about the things of value as well as the times of challenge. If we can alter the way we perceive, judge and decide upon the main issues of life, then we can dramatically change our lives.

Miles for Millie

2010-10-12T20:23:00.000-04:00

October 10, 2010

"We're on the MOVE to end Alzheimer's!"

Today was a great day supporting one of my best friends, Danielle Micale, at the annual 2010 Alzheimer's Association Memory Walk in Princeton, NJ. At the time of Dani's grandmother Millie's passing, she was suffering from Alzheimer's disease, which we all know takes our loved ones in one of the hardest ways possible - their memory! From today's walk alone, Dani was so very successful in raising over $2,600 to help the NJ Chapter find a cure. I shared the day with some of my best friends and loved every minute of it! As Alzheimer's Association says "We're on the MOVE to end Alzheimer's!"

Designer Blogs

2010-10-07T21:40:00.000-04:00

October 6, 2010

Many of you have been so kind as to ask me "who did your blog"? Well, first of all, THANK YOU! I have taken great pride and joy in developing and posting on my blog over the last year or so. It's nice to know you've noticed! Most of all, you MUST know that the super human gals at Designer Blogs helped me to build my blog. Lauren, especially, was the design guru that saw my vision and helped it come to light. You must visit their website to see the other innovative and neat blogs they've been busily creating. And what's more, for the month of October they are offering 10% off all orders. Just use the code PRETTY10 in your order form. Ask for Lauren, and tell her that Heather sent you!

Team Ra-Ras Kick Breast Cancer

2010-10-06T20:43:00.005-04:00

TEAM RA-RAS KICK BREAST CANCER!

That's right! In September over 130 of my former Philadelphia Eagles Cheerleaders came together to "bring it back" in an effort to kick breast cancer. PLEASE view this video from that great day! For each and every view United Healthcare of PA will donate to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Philadelphia Affiliate. "Team Ra-Ras" WILL help to kick breast cancer with YOUR help! PLEASE WATCH!

Click on this link if the video doesn't work: www.KomenPhiladelphia.org/Video

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

2010-10-03T23:20:00.004-04:00

October 3, 2010

In honor of this month of October, it’s that time of the year to THINK PINK! October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and a superb time to celebrate Awareness, Education and Empowerment in tribute to this disease! It's a time for us to reflect, raise awareness, and donate to help the mission of those around us who have battled it. Like many of us I, too, have had my share of breast cancer state of affairs. Good friends have been lost. Family members have been diagnosed. And my stepmother is a survivor. My friend, Kelly, was in her 30’s when she lost her battle. Marylou was my full-of-life Philadelphia Eagles Cheerleader director, choreographer and mentor when she was diagnosed a year or so ago. Laura is a wife and mother of 2 beautiful children battling the ugly disease as we speak. And Mary Ann, my loving stepmom, is going on her 3rd year as a survivor! Some of our favorite celebrities have been stricken by the disease, such as Sheryl Crow, Christina Applegate, Olivia Newton John, Elizabeth Edwards. My list (and I’m sure yours) goes on and on and on.

As a tribute to those incredible and courageous women who have heard their doctor say those 4 little words, “You have breast cancer!”, here are five ways to support and donate to this incurable disease. (And pay particular attention to #1!)

1. HEATHER HEMINGWAY – Handmade by yours truly, these sparkling pink pave rhinestone earrings are your perfect little accessory to honor yourself, your wife, your mother, your friend. I have custom made these little gems especially for National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and will personally donate 10% from each sale to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. These lovely embellished 12mm half-ball stud earrings are simply beautiful and can be ordered for $30 plus shipping. All for a good cause! Order yours today!

2. VERA BRADLEY – twittering sweet songs of hope for a cure, these raspberry pink and warm white warblers are a lovely addition to your Vera Bradley collection. Shop http://www.verabradley.com.

3. LORD & TAYLOR – giving has never looked so good! In recognition of this month, L&T has gathered together some fantastic fashions from your favorite names who will donate a portion of their proceeds to their favorite cancer charities. Click the link for the details and to start shopping. http://www.lordandtaylor.com/eng/CMS/laurenpinkdetails.cfm

4. YANKEE CANDLE – help provide A Light of Hope for a world without breast cancer! Yankee Candle supports the National Breast Cancer Foundation in their mission to fund mammograms for those in need. Give a light of hope to those affected by this disease. The wonderful Mandarin Cranberry fragrance is bursting with a vibrant, fruity sensation of sweet, sunny oranges and crisp, tangy cranberries. http://www.yankeecandle.com/cgi-bin/ycbvp/product_detail.jsp?oid=6591958

5. KITCHENAID - every baker needs a stand mixer to make the very best cookies, cakes and pies! KitchenAid's "Cook for the Cure" edition Artisan series stand mixer takes mixing to the highest power. For every pink mixer purchased, KitchenAid will donate $50 to the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Now that's thinking PINK! www.kitchenaid.com

Please spay or neuter your pets!

2010-10-03T20:46:00.004-04:00

Lulu Cunningham

"She is your friend, your partner, your defender, your dog. You are her life, her love, her leader. She will be yours, faithful and true, to the last beat of her heart. You owe it to her to be worthy of such devotion."

~ Unknown

Let's go to Milan!

2010-10-03T20:34:00.003-04:00

MAISON MOSCHINO HOTEL

I came upon this utterly ADORABLE hotel from a recent issue of Town & Country magazine and immediately thought about how fun it would be to stay in it. It’s the Maison Moschino Hotel in Milan, Italy. It was an 1840’s train station that was turned into a hotel that’s now brimming with whimsy creativity!

How utterly ADORABLE are these pictures?!! Especially the “Sleeping in a Ballgown” bed and headboard! If this isn’t fit for Mrs. International herself (or contestant), with their affiliation with Go Red For Women, I don’t know what is!

And check out the illuminated dress forms

that decorate the lobby.

What a fun trip it would be to grab the girls, spend a week in Milan during Fashion Week, and stay at this hotel!

Make-A-Wish Mentor

2010-09-29T22:10:00.000-04:00

August 25, 2010

As the summer comes to an end and we look forward to the start of back-to-school and the Fall season, I received such a thoughtful surprise by my friends at the Make-A-Wish Foundation of NJ. They rely on Mentors to teach and train new volunteers to become Wish Granters and have asked me to become a member of the select few with such a title. It is with absolute honor that I accept and take on this great privledge. I'll never forget my Mentor, Joe, who helped me to become the Wish Granter I am today. I can only hope that I can be half the Mentor that Joe was.

Wish Granters work directly with the children and their families to determine the child’s one true wish and then play an instrumental role in helping to plan, create, and fulfill the child’s wish. These specifically trained volunteers make the wish an unforgettable experience through their attention to detail and imagination. Wish Granters volunteer their time around their own schedule and must be at least 21 years old.

As I take on this wonderful responsibility as a Wish Granter Mentor I will never forget that the sole purpose of the Foundation is to grant wishes to children with life-threatening medical conditions. With hope, strength and joy I will do it with a HUGE smile on my face!

Lupus

2010-09-29T21:54:00.001-04:00

August 19, 2010

For those who know me know that I don't talk very much about this, but the fact of the matter is.....I have lupus. I don't like to talk about it much. I'm not in denial. No, that's hardly the case. I would simply just rather focus my thoughts on other things rather than allowing this disease to take hold of me. I faced it head on when I was diagnosed many years ago, and since then I have supported, rallied, and donated my time and efforts to try to make a difference for others with this disease. I haven't been as active with it the last two years, as I felt as though my efforts weren't getting anywhere. Well over a million Americans have lupus, however in all these years there has yet to be a drug that could battle it. Sure, we have drugs that help to relieve our symptoms. But nothing that battled it head on. Until now!

Finally, Human Genome Sciences, Inc. and GlaxoSmithKline today announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted a priority review designation to BENLYSTA as a potential treatment for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). A priority review designation is granted to drugs that, if approved, offer major advances in treatment or provide a treatment where no adequate therapy exists. The FDA has assigned Benlysta a Prescription Drug User Fee Act date of December 9, 2010.

This is terrific news! Until now the very best drug we had (for the most part) was Prednisone, which is a powerful steroid when taken for a long peroid of time. Which, for anyone that's familiar with Prednisone......well, let's just say it isn't pretty.

I pray and hope that Benlysta can be the living saving therapy device that can help my fellow lupus survivors, including myself. In the meantime, I will continue to stay out of the sun, watch my stress level, eat right, exercise and do everything else I do to stay healthy. Let's hope that after ALL these years we finally have something to target this dreadful disease.

With Love,

Eat, Pray, Love

2010-09-29T17:52:00.001-04:00

How true is this quote from the book version of Eat, Pray, Love???

"God never slams a door in your face without opening a box of Girl Scout cookies..."

The 2010 Mrs. International Pageant

2010-07-21T18:45:00.000-04:00

July 21, 2010

I have just returned from one of the most exciting and thrilling weeks of my life. I represented my hometown state, New Jersey, in the 2010 Mrs. International Pageant. I was one of 52 amazing women who came together to promote our community service leadership, our love of pageantry and our support of the International Pageant System. The director of the International Pageant System, Mary Richardson, is a vivacious and beautiful women who treated us with dignity and respect the entire week. There was no stone left unturned and I am honored to have respected the Garden State at this prestigious venue.

Although I did not win or place, the women who did were beyond extraordinary. Shannon Devine, Mrs. Southeast International, became our new Mrs. International 2010! She is a beautiful, motivated and encouraging advocate for adoption. Please visit her websites at "Shannon Devine" and "Little Miss Magic".

Thank you to EVERYONE who helped me to achieve my personal goals at Mrs. International. I could not have made this journey without you and I am SO SO honored, grateful and blessed for all your support, guidance and love. It was a week I will never ever forget, as I came away with a greater understanding of myself along with new friendships from incredible women.

God Bless,

GO DANIEL!

2010-07-07T18:42:00.000-04:00

July 7, 2010

GRANTING WISHES ONE CHILD AT A TIME ~~~ One of my little Make-A-Wish children, Daniel, has embarked on his magical wish to a popular amusement park in Pennsylvania for the week. He is joined by his parents and 5 siblings, and I just know that at least for this week they will have left behind all evidence of hospital rooms, doctors and IV bags. There will be NO thought of his leukemia. Only exciting, incredibly fun memories will be made. GO DANIEL!! And THANK YOU Make-A-Wish!!

Granting Wishes One Child at a Time!

2010-06-29T01:30:00.000-04:00

June 29, 2010

This week is a super special week for me. I'm SO SO excited! I get to deliver not one, but TWO travel packages to two of my wish kids for their upcoming wishes that are being fulfilled next week. One of them is spending a week out in the wildnerness camping with his family. The other one is jet setting across the ocean to spend a week in Italy with his family. Both these precious boys have been sick for quite some time and for them to have this INCREDIBLE opportunity to experience joy and to forget about their doctors and hospitals for a bit .... well it doesn't get much better than that! But not only will these boys have the time of their lives, but their families will too. Parents and siblings are just as overwhelmed and thrilled as the wish kids. It's SUCH a joyous occassion for everyone!! (including me!!)

God bless the Make-A-Wish Foundation!

20 YEARS ~ 20 WISHES with E!

2010-06-26T23:31:00.000-04:00

June 26, 2010

Do you ever watch the "E!" channel? It's a fun channel with lots of celebrity scoop, right? Well, in celebration of E!'s 20th birthday the network is helping the Make-A-Wish Foundation grant 20 wishes to children with life-threatening medical conditions. Please click here to make a donation now to help them reach our goal of granting 20 wishes in 2010.

FIVE DOLLAR FRIDAY for Make-A-Wish

2010-06-25T19:39:00.000-04:00

June 25, 2010

My Friends,

Virtually all of us have known or been impacted by a child or teenager with a severe life-threatening medical condition. Outside of hospital rooms, medical charts and IV bags they don't know too much else. Being sick is very scary for children! Ever so slightly they can here the whispering that goes on between their parents and their doctors outside the door of their hospital room. They see the bravery that their parents and family show them, but know they are holding back their tears. For many of these children time is of the essence. Their family grasps at anything to create happy memories for their loved one. And.....then the Make-A-Wish Foundation enters the picture with huge loving arms open wide ready to grant these incredible kids their most special wish EVER! Many times these wishes that the MAWF grants are the best lasting memory that the child and family have together. But just like many of us, the MAWF struggles to make ends meet too. They are a non-profit charity and without funding they are useless. That's why I'm making today "FIVE DOLLAR FRIDAY" to help generate more funding for them. Won't you PLEASE consider making a small $5.00 donation to this wonderful foundation? $5 is less than going to the movies. $5 is less than a mani/pedi. $5 is less than I paid for my lunch at work today!! Please click on the "DONATE" button on my charity badge above to be taken directly to the Network for Good website where you can make your $5 contribution either via credit card or paypal. It's completely safe and will go directly to my state MAW chapter. Thank you for helping to pave the way to create happy and joyful memories for kids!!

Love,

Make-A-Wish and Social Networking

2010-06-22T19:22:00.001-04:00

June 22, 2010

Isn't it amazing how social networking has revolutionized the way we communicate and share information? With millions of people using the World Wide Web every day to stay in touch, social networking is part of our daily routine. Fortunately between the usage of Facebook and my Blog I have been able to successfully relay heartfelt information to you about the Make-A-Wish Foundation - a truly INSPIRING foundation! If you are not already a FAN of the Make-A-Wish Foundation of America fan page, please CLICK HERE to take you directly to their page. Here you can read actual posts from wish children and their parents describing their most magical wishes come true! And, as always, you can visit the the national website at www.wish.org to find the closet MAW chapter in your state.

Donate Airline Miles

2010-06-14T22:23:00.000-04:00

June 14, 2010

Do you travel for work? Do you have frequent flyer miles that you aren't using? The Make-A-Wish Foundation needs them!

Because many wishes involve air travel donating your airline miles is a great way to help grant wishes. By donating your airline miles you’re helping the Make-A-Wish Foundation grant travel wishes that require an estimated 2.5 billion airline miles yearly. Miles that were donated by in-kind donors helped to fly 10-year-old Haley to Alaska for her wish! And 8-year-old Zachary to Hawaii for his wish!

Or... perhaps you have a Travel Voucher that is transferable and doesn't expire within 30 days. Your state chapter is certainly in dire need for this kind of help. To locate your state chapter, please click here.

Thank you for helping us to be able to continue granting wishes to children with seriously ill health conditions.

And the winner of "Make-A-Wish Wednesday" is.....

2010-06-06T12:55:00.004-04:00

June 6, 2010

Congratulations to JULIE WINTER RZECHULA for winning "Make-A-Wish Wednesday"! I received so many entries, thank you everyone for playing! Julie answered all the questions correctly and was the winner using a computer randomizer program. Julie is the reigning Mrs. Washington International 2010 and I can't wait to meet her in person at Mrs. International in Chicago in July. Congrats, Julie!

THE ANSWERS ARE:

1. Who was the very first “Make-A-Wish” child? What was his wish?

The Make-A-Wish Foundation traces its beginning to one boy’s wish. In 1980, 7-year-old Chris Greicius was being treated for leukemia. Every day, he dreamed of becoming a police officer. His wish did indeed come true!

2. What is the mission of the Make-A-Wish Foundation?

We grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy.

3. What ONE volunteer position requires the most significant time commitment, is the highest level of volunteering offered by Make-A-Wish, and requires constant training and orientations?

Wish Granting is the highest level and is exactly what my husband and I are. How blessed we are!

4. What are the four most requested wishes categories?

a. I wish to go

b. I wish to be

c. I wish to meet

d. I wish to have

5. Who is eligible to receive a wish?

A child with a life-threatening medical condition who has reached the age of 2 1/2 and is under the age of 18 at the time of referral, is potentially eligible for a wish.

Make-A-Wish Wednesday!

2010-06-02T14:45:00.001-04:00

June 2, 2010

Although the official start of summer is still days away (although here in NJ it surely feels like summer) the “Summer of 5,000 Wishes” for the Make-A-Wish Foundation has already begun. To date, 194,408 wishes have been granted by the Make-A-Wish Foundation since its inception in 1980 and the summer season is always the busiest wish season of the year when up to 5,000 wishes are granted every June, July, August and September.

In honor of the start of the “Summer of 5,000 Wishes” I am holding a fun contest to start the season off with a bang. One lucky winner will win a custom made pair of earrings made by yours truly, Heather Cunningham for Heather Hemingwa! In keeping with the color of Make-A-Wish, they will be Cobalt and feature none other than genuine Swarovski rhinestones and crystals. The total value of the pair will be $100.00.

HERE'S HOW TO PLAY:

You must answer the following 5 questions correctly about the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Simply leave a ‘comment’ below this post with your answers. All 5 answers MUST be correct. You may only submit one entry per name.

If your comment doesn’t show up right away, don’t fret, it’s simply because I may have to officially approve it first. If you do not already have a Google account, please send me a personal email or message me on Facebook so that I can contact you in the event you are the winner.

The contest will run between now and Sunday, June 6th at Noon Eastern Time at which point I will post the correct answers and will utilize a computer randomizer to select one lucky winner from all the correct entries received.

Have fun, good luck and as always thank you for supporting the Make-A-Wish Foundation!

(Clue: For help, visit the MAW website by clicking here.)

QUESTIONS:

1. Who was the very first “Make-A-Wish” child? What was his wish?

2. What is the mission of the Make-A-Wish Foundation?

3. What ONE volunteer position requires the most significant time commitment, is the highest level of volunteering offered by Make-A-Wish, and requires constant training and orientations?

4. What are the four most requested wishes categories?

5. Who is eligible to receive a wish?

My FULL part-time job!

2010-05-31T19:20:00.000-04:00

May 31, 2010

As Mrs. New Jersey International 2010, I am simply tickled pink to have the opportunity to share my passion of the Make-A-Wish Foundation with the country. I continue to embark on this joyous year by supporting all the facets of my personal life and my pageantry life together, which I approach as none other. I refer to my title as "my FULL part-time job" in order to ensure that everyone I meet can see how passionate I am for them and that they can truly become aware of these organizations. The Mrs. International Organization, the American Heart Association's Go Red for Women movement, as well as the Make-A-Wish Foundation are three truly fascinating, inspiring, motivating and encouraging organizations that synergistically support life at its best.

Your generous support of these three facets of my life continue to touch my heart. Please don't stop! Please continue to show your support for these them, as without YOU they would not be in existence today. Thank you for all your help!

http://www.mrsinternational.com
http://www.americanheart.org
http://www.wish.org

All my love,

Walt Disney World and Make-A-Wish!

2010-05-26T19:05:00.001-04:00

May 26, 2010

Even if you have never been to Walt Disney World, everyone has at least heard of the world's largest and most visited resort. When the Magic Kingdom opened in 1971 little did anyone think (I'm sure they hoped) that "The Most Magical Place on Earth" would become one of the most iconic and symbolistic names in history.

What is the most popular wish destination for Make-A-Wish kids? You guessed it: Walt Disney World! The Walt Disney Company has a long-standing relationship with the Make-A-Wish Foundation and has granted more than 75,000 wishes since its partnership began. Thanks to Disney’s support of the Make-A-Wish Foundation, wish families enjoy tickets to Walt Disney World, special visits from Disney characters and many other magical surprises. One very special relationship in the Walt Disney World area is "Give Kids The World". GKTW is its own little village where most of the MAW kids and their families stay during their vacation. It is a non-profit organization that exists only to fulfill the wishes of all children with life-threatening illnesses from around the world and to allow them to experience a memorable, joyful, cost-free visit to Walt Disney World and other Central Florida attractions. Over 100,000 children have had their dreams come true at Give Kids The World. No child in need has ever been turned away – and no child ever will. Give Kids The World is a place where families find joy, laughter, serenity, and a lifetime of memories. Through the tireless support of volunteers, employees and generous partners, they dedicate each and every day to these special families.

As a Wish Granter, I simply never know what my next wish child is going to wish for, but I can tell you that Walt Disney World is by far in the lead for the most requested wish that I have personally helped MAW grant. Take, for instance, little 4-year-old Emily, who greeted me at the door when I arrived to grant her wish wearing a Cinderella princess dress and a crown. She said she wanted to visit the iconic Cinderella Castle with her parents and grandparents. Emily's wish came true! She had her very own suite at Give Kids the World Village, she had a special lunch with Cinderella and enjoyed an unforgettable dinner with Prince Charming. And Emily even played the part just right by kicking off her shoe so the prince could put it back on her foot. How unbelievably CUTE! After her vacation Emily's mom wrote a note saying, “Truly, the Make-A-Wish Foundation helped us all reclaim our lives before Emily was diagnosed, even if it was for a week – a week which we all needed desperately.”

Thank you to the Walt Disney World Company, Give Kids The World, and the Make-A-Wish Foundation for giving Emily the MAGICAL power of a princess wish she could call her very own!

What do I have in common with Bret Michaels?

2010-05-25T00:17:00.001-04:00

May 24, 2010

Well I never thought I would have anything in common with the newest winner of 'Celebrity Apprentice', Bret Michaels. Most likely all of us have been following him in the news lately due to a myrid of medical problems that have landed him in the hospital on quite a few occassions. First being a brain hemorrhage that left him clinging to life. Second being a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or warning stroke, along with revealing that he has a hole in his heart. Just like Bret, I too have suffered a transient ischemic attack, however not only did I have one, but I had two!

For those who are unfamiliar with TIA's, allow me to give you a very brief education about them..... a TIA is caused by the temporary disturbance of blood supply to an area of the brain, which results in a sudden, brief decrease in brain function. (A decrease in brain function is called a neurologic deficit.) A TIA is different than a small stroke. The symptoms of TIA's do not last as long as a stroke and do not show changes on a CT or MRI scans. (Small strokes do show changes on such tests.) A TIA is often considered a warning sign that a true stroke may happen in the future if something is not done to prevent it. Symptoms begin suddenly, last only a short time (from a few minutes to 24 hours), and disappear completely. They may occur again at a later time. Symptoms usually occur on the same side of the body if more than one body part is involved.

My TIA's were due to my lupus and both occurred on the left side of my body. As a result my left face cheek and my left toes are now numb and tingling. Both of my TIA's occurred at work sitting at my desk. There were no warning signs nor did I know what was happening when they were occurring.

Bret Michaels and myself are/could be no different than you! If you suddenly experience any of the following symptoms, it is extremely important that you call 911 and seek medical help immediately.

Muscle weakness of the face, arm, or leg (usually only on one side of the body)

Numbness or tingling on one side of the body

Trouble speaking or understanding others who are speaking

Problems with eyesight (double vision, loss of all or part of vision)

Changes in sensation, involving touch, pain, temperature, pressure, hearing, taste

Change in alertness (sleepiness, less responsive, unconscious, or coma)

Personality, mood, or emotional changes

Confusion or loss of memory

Difficulty swallowing

Difficulty writing or reading

Lack of coordination and balance, clumsiness, or trouble walking

Abnormal sensation of movement (vertigo) or dizziness

Lack of control over the bladder or bowels
Inability to recognize or identify sensory stimuli

With stroke being the #3 cause of death in the United States, it's very important that you treat a TIA as a warning of something much bigger to possibly come. Please visit the American Heart Assocation website to learn more about what you can do if you or a loved one suddenly experiences a TIA. Don't wait, learn about it NOW!

Flowers and Bees in GIVERNEY!

2010-05-18T21:26:00.007-04:00

As the flowers and trees are blooming in all their glory, Springtime takes me back to a time 2 years ago when Tom and I took an incredible tour around England and France with my amazing Mom. One of our stops was to Giverney, France.

Virtually all of us have seen the beautiful watercolor's of the ever famous Claude Monet. Seeing his beautiful gardens and his house in person gave me the sense of realization that beautiful places on earth really do exist.

This photo I took myself with my own camera. Monet's water lily paintings are amongst his more well known of all. This water lily was in full-bloom and sitting on its lilypad saying "Look at me!" Although myphoto doesn't do it justice, it was beautiful in person!

Here is a collage of gorgeous flowers that I took photos of all through Monet's gardens. There were rows and rows of beautiful flowers blooming everywhere.

Yummy Recipe for Health!

2010-05-12T14:17:00.002-04:00

RAINBOW FRUIT SALAD

With Memorial Day right around the corner, here's a heart healthy recipe everyone in your family can help make. This delicious, colorful and healthy salad can be the perfect accompaniment to your holiday table. Have the little ones peel bananas and pick grapes while you slice and dice!

Salad ingredients:

1 large mango, peeled and diced
2 cups fresh blueberries
2 bananas, sliced
2 cups fresh strawberries, halved
2 cups seedless grapes
2 nectarines, unpeeled and sliced
1 kiwi fruit, peeled and sliced

Honey-Orange sauce ingredients:

1/3 cup unsweetened orange juice
2 tbsp. lemon juice
1 tbsp. honey
1 tsp. ground ginger
Dash of nutmeg

Directions:

Prepare and combine the fruit.
In a separate bowl, combine all the ingredients for the sauce and mix.
Just before serving, pour the sauce over the fruit.

YUM-O! Enjoy!

Yield: 12 servings
Nutrition Facts: Serving Size 4 oz, Calories 96, Total Fat 1 g, Cholesterol 0 mg, Sodium 4 mg
Source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute/National Institutes of Health

Heart Attack Signs!

2010-05-12T13:55:00.001-04:00

May 12, 2010

Can you name the signs of a heart attack?

I couldn't before having TWO TIA'S (transient ischemic attacks or "mini-strokes")!!!

Some heart attacks come on strong, cause crushing chest pain, and leave little room for doubt. But others build slowly and can be mistaken for different problems. Getting treatment within an hour of a heart attack boosts your odds of surviving. That's why it's important to know those signs before an attack.

STEP ONE: KNOW THE SIGNS
Chest pain is the most common and well-known sign of a heart attack. The discomfort might feel like pressure, squeezing, or fullness. It usually starts in the center of the chest and may last awhile, or go away and come back.

Other common symptoms include:

Pain or discomfort in other parts of the body. This could include your jaw, neck, back, stomach, and one or both arms.
Shortness of breath. You may get this along with chest discomfort, or just by itself.
Nausea and vomiting, feeling fatigued or light-headed, or fainting.
Breaking out in a cold sweat.
Chest pain is common among women as well as men. But women are more likely than men to have some of the other symptoms of heart attack listed, particularly shortness of breath, nausea and vomiting, and back or jaw pain.

STEP TWO: GET HELP
If you have these signs, or think you might be having a heart attack, call 911 immediately.

Let's Get Baking for Make-A-Wish!

2010-05-10T19:58:00.001-04:00

May 10, 2010

If you're anything like me you love to eat! Sweets are particularly my down fall! Especially freshly baked chocolate chip cookies! Yum-O! Well, if you have some baking to do please be sure to purchase items from Betty Crocker. "Stirring Up Wishes" is a Betty Crocker multi-year cause-marketing program with the Make-A-Wish Foundation to help grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions and bring hope, strength and joy to their lives.

This year, Betty Crocker is Stirring Up Wishes for wish kids, and we can ALL help to raise up to $500,000 to help grant wishes. Just look for specially marked Betty Crocker products in your grocery store and for every specially marked product purchased, Betty Crocker will donate 10¢ to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, with a guaranteed minimum donation of $250,000 and a maximum donation of $500,000.

So let's get baking, gang!!

Inspiration

2010-05-10T19:52:00.000-04:00

May 9, 2010

Hey'all, be sure to hop on over to my INSPIRATION page. I just updated it with some inspiring information. If you ever have any comments to make, be sure to send me a message on Facebook or a personal email. I would love to hear from you!

Crowning Miss Teen New Jersey International

2010-05-10T19:43:00.000-04:00

May 8, 2010

Today "Team New Jersey International" became complete! Beautiful Sara Reidy was crowned today as the new Miss Teen New Jersey International 2010! Brielle LaCosta (Miss NJ International) and I (Mrs. NJ International) were on hand to officially crown her at her beautiful home in Princeton, NJ. Jodi and Scott Cessna, our directors, have their NJ Cessna Bunch all complete now, and we all couldn't be happier. Sara and her family are simply lovely and I know that Sara is going to have an incredible year ahead of her. Congratulations, Sara! Welcome to the family!!

For more information on how YOU can compete to become the next Mrs., Miss or Teen New Jersey International, please visit the website for more information. Please click here to visit the national website to learn all about the wonderful International Pageants, Inc.

Make-A-Wish Hall of Fame

2010-05-04T19:49:00.002-04:00

May 3, 2010

Because celebrities are able to reach so many people throughout the course of their stardom, they are a big part of many of the wishes the MAW Foundation grants. As I have witnessed first hand, often being a part of the wish experience is almost as moving for the celebrity as it is for the child. Take Beyonce, for instance. She recently granted 12-year-old Zykia's wish from the Florida Chapter of MAW. For one night Zykia was able to put aside hospital visits and doctor examinations to be front and center at Beyonce's concert. Just having been driven in a stretch limo to the arena, Zykia was ushered to a special area for a meet and greet with Beyonce that started out with a HUGE hug from her idol. After spending some good amount of quality time with her, Zykia took her front row seat to enjoy the actual show. Arriving back home in the limo was surely the icing on the cake to what was an INCREDIBLE night for Zykia!

Beyonce is only one out of MANY celebrities who offer their time to grant wishes to children. The list includes:

Bruce Springsteen
John Cena
Jeff Gordon
The Jonas Brothers
Mariah Carey
"The Office" cast
and the list goes on and on!

To find out how YOU can grant wishes, please visit www.wish.org TODAY!

World Wish Day

2010-05-04T18:24:00.000-04:00

April 29, 2010

Today is WORLD WISH DAY!

As the end of World Wish Day draws to a close I was just made aware that more than 175 wishes came true today to children with life-threatening illnesses! David Williams, President & CEO of MAW, declared that through the development of the Foundation back in 1980 from one little boy's dream of becoming a police officer, today's world wish activities have sparked even greater enthusiasm and involvement in the Foundation.

Let's continue to share the power of a wish all year long. Refer a child, make a donation, spread the world. To donate to World Wish Day, please click here!

Thank you for helping to make wishes come true!

Our Hearts, Our Choice!

2010-05-03T23:13:00.002-04:00

April 28, 2010

Heart disease is the #1 killer in women! Have you checked your blood pressure lately? Do you know what your numbers are? When was the last time you listened to your heart and slowed down? When was the last time you exercised? Heart disease is a silent killer. Be empowered by learning the signs and symptoms of a heart attack or stroke.

I didn't know the symptoms even when I was having my TIA's. They hit me out of the blue! Sitting at my desk at work! Doing my job! A few hours later I found myself laying in the Stroke Unit at Thomas Jefferson Hospital in Philadelphia. Today I have numbness in my left face and my left toes. I monitor my blood pressure and try to keep myself healthy (despite my love of sweets!).

Don't let yourself be a statistic. Listen to what your heart is telling you!

Our Hearts, Our Choice!

Be sure to visit the American Heart Association website to find a local Chapter near you. www.AmericanHeart.org

Dishes for Wishes 2010

2010-05-03T22:51:00.002-04:00

April 27, 2010

This is the day that the Make-A-Wish Foundation of NJ and I have been waiting on for a long time now. The 7th Annual Dishes for Wishes 2010 event!! It was held this evening at the DoubleTree Hotel in Mt. Laurel, NJ and was a great success! I can't thank everyone enough for all your help and dedication to making sure this event went off without a hitch. The committee and I have worked very hard to make sure that once again it was a raving success. Granted the poor economy reared its ugly face by lowering our turn-out numbers, but we still hit a home run in raising money for wishes to come true. This is the MAWFNJ's second biggest fundraiser of the year. And since this is the 7th year we have held this event, we are so extremely fortunate to our sponsors, our patrons, our volunteers, our staff, and everyone who worked tirelessly to make it come together.

A big shout-out to the Mrs. New Jersey United States Organization! I developed the relationship between the two organizations back in 2007 and to this day it still lives on. The reigning Mrs. NJ US, Ceylone Booth-Grooms, and 3 contestants competing for her title in May (Susan Davis, Shanna Edwards and Andrea Graham) participated as Celebrity Servers and were SUCH a big hit! Thanks again, ladies, for attending and helping to serve some of the tastiest food in the local area!

The Foundation was honored to have one of their former wish kids attend with her family. It is just so inspiring to hear the words of thanks from the parents of wish kids. More times than none there isn't a dry eye in the crowd when they are saying thank you for allowing their child's dream to come true. That's why I do what I do with the Foundation. That's why I continue to grant wishes to children fighting the battle of their lives. For any parent who has had a sick child, you understand how hard it is to watch your child struggle through their illness. The common cold is one thing, but cancer is something altogether different. Life-threatening illnesses truly hit home when it happens to your very own child. The MAWFNJ can't grant wishes without the support of its volunteers, sponsors, donations and gifts. Please help me to support the Chapter here in New Jersey. If you're not in NJ, please kindly consider supporting the Chapter in your state. Visit www.wish.org to find a Chapter near you.

Thank you to everyone who helped at this wonderful event and to everyone who continues to support the Foundation so that children have the chance to dream big!

Refer a Child

2010-04-30T22:28:00.001-04:00

April 23, 2010

How often do we come across children (ages 2.5-18) who are battling life-threatening illnesses? I surely do pray it's not all that often! But I surely can tell you that unfortunately there are so many children out there who struggle with life-threatening illnesses every single day of the year. We all know that illnesses have no boundaries or limitations!

Do you know how to refer a child to the Make-A-Wish Foundation if you had to? Do you know that anyone (and I mean ANYONE) can refer a child to the MAWF? If you are unsure, it's about time that you took a peek at how you can affect the life of a sick child. Referring a child is one of the most important parts of helping the MAWF.

I urge you to learn how you can help. You will be happy you did! www.wish.org/refer

National MS Walk

2010-04-30T22:11:00.003-04:00

April 18, 2010

Today was a day spent honoring one of my very best friends, Mary Moulds (Mrs. New Jersey International 2009). In 2001 she was diagnosed with MS only 3 short months after her wedding day. Imagine being a newlywed and having your doctor tell you that the symptoms you have been experiencing are from Multiple Sclerosis? Well......for anyone who knows Mary knows that nothing, and I mean NOTHING, holds her back from accomplishing her goals and dreams. She is one of the strongest women I know!

Today we spent it walking 6.5 miles in support of her and her disease. Successfully she raised $5,000 and over the past many years combined she has raised over $50,000 for MS research. Mary's motto in life is, “Life is not about limitations, only possibilities!”

YOU GO GIRL!!! I'm SO proud of you!!!

The Disney Store supports World Wish Day!

2010-04-30T22:07:00.002-04:00

April 12, 2010

From April 12 – May 2, 2010, The Disney Store will donate $3 from the purchase of each World Wish Day tote to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, with a maximum donation of $45,000. To order on-line or find a store near you please click here to be directed to the Disney Store. Help me to support World Wish Day on April 29th.

World Wish Day

2010-04-30T22:04:00.000-04:00

April 10, 2010

World Wish Day commemorates the 30th anniversary of the wish granted to a boy named Chris, who wished to be a police officer. Granting his wish inspired the creation of the Make-A-Wish Foundation and sparked a global wish-granting movement. Come April 29, 2010, it will be 30 years since that very first wish. Since then over 185,000 wishes having been granted to children with life-threatening illnesses. Let's keep the Foundation going for another 30 years and hopefully double the amount of volunteers we have and funds that are raised, so that we can reach EVERY child the is targeted with a tragic illness!!

Dishes for Wishes

2010-04-30T21:57:00.002-04:00

April 5, 2010

Don't forget.....Dishes for Wishes is coming up on Tuesday, April 27th. As a Committee Member we need all the help we can get to make sure this event runs smoothly. If you are interested in attending or volunteering, please contact me ASAP. Remember that it's all for a good cause. We can't make it successful without YOU!

Red Dress pin

2010-04-28T20:18:00.001-04:00

Do you know how to get your very own Red Dress pin? The red dress is a symbol of the Go Red For Women's movement in their fight against heart disease. To order your FREE dress pin, click here to provide your address information. Your pin should arrive in 3-4 weeks.

Wear the red dress pin proudly to show you’re part of the movement.

Kyle's Wish

2010-04-28T20:12:00.000-04:00

March 29, 2010

Tonight Tom and I had the utmost pleasure in asking 11-year-old Kyle that ultra important (and special) question. "If you could have one wish, what would it be?" Tom and I have never encountered a little boy who wouldn't stop smiling. Many times when we meet with wish children they are nervous, or embarrassed, or even a little scared. But not Kyle! He was so psyched for our visit that he was bursting at the seams when we arrived. He simply has the best smile ever!! Well....Kyle has had an extremely tough road with his battle of cancer. It's not over yet either. Regardless, Kyle is wishing for a visit with the New York Yankees!

Play ball, Kyle!!! (thank you, MAW!)

Go Red Day at the NJ Statehouse

2010-04-28T20:03:00.001-04:00

Did you know that AED’s (automated external defibrillator) are not located in every public place? If your Mom or Sister were to have a heart attack while you were sitting together in the movie theater, would you know what to do? Or where to go to look for an AED? Well, I didn't either! Not until I assisted at the Go Red For Women Day at the Statehouse in New Jersey. Currently AED’s are the only life-saving therapy available for victims of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. My NJ state advocacy directors are working on legislation to make it more amenable for the AED’s to be located in more public places and to remove any concern about using them in the case of an emergency.

Spending the day with my state AHA and Go Red chapter at the Statehouse today was such a nice time! Interacting with my state legislators never grows old! Any time I have the opportunity to meet with them is always such an honor. I’m glad I was able to assist in their outreach efforts in making every man and woman aware about the risks of heart disease. My “Miss NJ International” sister queen, Brielle LaCosta, was with me and together we had an extremely enjoyable day!

Dishes For Wishes

2010-04-24T22:20:00.001-04:00

The 7th Annual Dishes for Wishes is almost here! It will feature a competition among 20 celebrated South Jersey restaurants, fantastic silent auction items, celebrity servers, raffle to win “A Year of Dining Out” and more! Tickets and raffle tickets are on sale now!! Tickets are $75 in advance and $85 at the door, raffle tickets are $10 each.

To purchase tickets or raffle tickets or for more information on available sponsorships or to donate an auction item, please contact Stacy Kreizman, Director of External Events at 800-252-9474 or email skreizman@wishnj.org.

Wee, Wee, Wee!

2010-04-24T22:15:00.001-04:00

I love this picture! Can I just say that first?

Perhaps it's because it's a pig. I happen to love pigs! Did I ever mention that before? How can you NOT love pigs. You just can't beat their cute little pink bellies, squiggly tails and floppy ears. If I owned a farm I would have a dozen pigs to play in the mud with. This one, especially, is all dressed up and ready for afternoon tea with her pig pals. All adorned with pretty flowers in her hair. She's a beauty for sure!!

Pennsylvania International Pageant

2010-04-24T22:01:00.001-04:00

March 21, 2010

Yesterday was spent supporting my wonderful Mrs. New Jersey International director, Jodi Cessna, at her PA International Pageant in Altoona, PA. It was yet again a truly fantastic production with simply amazing contestants. One of my BFF’s, Dani Micale, was competing in the Mrs. category and placed 1st Runner-Up. She was beautiful and I'm so very proud of her! I was so honored to have hand-crafted the earrings for her gorgeous Sherri Hill gown. They were gorgeous on her and I decided to name the design after her ~ “Danielle”!

I truly look forward to getting to know the winner, Dixie Shaffer, in Chicago in July. She did such a wonderful job and truly earned the win. Congrats, Dixie!!!

It was such a fun weekend spent with my very best gal pals!!!!!

Grateful!

2010-04-24T21:55:00.001-04:00

March 17, 2010

Something happened today that reminded me of how entirely grateful I am for the women in my life. My mother, my stepmother, my mother-in-law, my sister-in-law, my BFF girlfriends, and my coaches & mentors are amongst the finest women I know! I talk to my mom at least twice a day. And I email and talk to my girlfriends many many many times a week. These women are the epitome of goodness. I am so grateful for their friendship. I truly love them all!!!