Survivors
February 2004We've gotten through the holidays, our decorations are boxed up and stored for another year, and so it's time to go on with our lives. This past year, I didn't put up decorations. What I did do was to make a special effort to get with my friends, most are single now, some are not, and have lunch with them, or just spend time with them. A couple of us went to an Amish Community one Saturday and just drove around. It was such a nice day. I love sampling their jams, jellies, peanut butter, cheeses, etc. . . and even bought small samples of same to bring home. I did buy an Amish outfit for my doll that I got some fifty-five years ago so I now have an Amish Angel in my kitchen setting in her high chair. Another day I went to a unique Korn Krib restaurant with a couple friends to celebrate one of their birthdays which was also the day my loved one died. We always spend a part of that weekend together. The Korn Krib is literally two corn cribs put together and we had such fun. And I will continue to keep in touch during the year, as well. I bought some Olsen Twins videos to watch with the younger set. So far, these girls haven't become obscene, even though they have more money than most young people (!!), they have recently enrolled in college. Smart Girls. I do consider our coming election year and keep my ears open to ideas and focuses of the candidates. We the voters hopefully can have enough discernment to know which candidate will stick to their word, which will not sell America short, which will remember campaign promises to the average American. I've learned that politics will always be the same; it will never change but each of us can change our world. I intend to make a difference in my world. I do have a job that interfere with my dreams and desires while at the same time offers me an opportunity to dream and see those dreams come to life, in time. It is our privilege, and our right to vote. So now is the time to listen to each candidate and try and determine which will stand for the freedoms who hold dear. Look back into their background and determine their life styles. Just don't let it upset your dinner? What we see now on the campaign trail isn't reality. Oh well, I do think that each one of us has an opportunity to change our own little world. But to do that, we have to have a vision. We have to take what life has thrown our way, and use the stones for stepping stones. Today, I'm going to have my taxes filed and hopefully can continue to plan a nice vacation this year. If not, then I will continue to explore my own state and enjoy the wonders we have here in our own back yard. Carolyn is a contributing writer for 4MilitaryFamilies.com. | 
