Mandy K

This is my brown-eyed stinkerbell loving herself

A message for our youth... stand steadfast and unmovable

This is our dreamer, our writer, our reader, and our oldest daughter.  Her smile can brighten a room.

Honey Jar

Here is what I give to all my friends who are getting married, not because I'm cheap, but because I believe in symbolism. These items are to remind the reciever of what it would take to stay happily married. I call it a “Honey Jar” because it is filled with love and love truly makes the world a little sweeter. Over the years, I have my own “Honey” jar to which I have added each of these items. Each is symbolic to me and I hope it will be to you as well. Here is what they symbolize:

Film – Both of you should take pictures of the world around you. When you compare photos, instead of criticizing the other for wasting a shot on something you wouldn’t have taken, thank them for opening your eyes to a new way of thinking. These pictures will serve as a reminder that even though you may both be looking at the same thing, you will each have a different perspective and that is what makes life more interesting.

Tape Measure – Because you will both have different perspectives, the tape measure is there to remind you that sometimes you will have to compromise and meet half way.

Paper Clips – To remind you to stick together and support each other in your decisions.

Scissors and Glue – If you are doing something that may be hurtful to your mate, “Cut” it out. Remember, what you take apart you may need to put back together again.

Hi-lighters – To remind you to bring out the best in one another.

Tea Bags – Instead of reacting harshly to something that may bother you, go make some tea. In the time that it takes to steep a cup of tea, you can gather your thoughts and maybe even have a chance to see the other side of the story. Tea also reminds you to take a moment to unwind at the end of each day.

Band-Aids – To remind you to heal wounds while they are fresh. Saying “I’m sorry” is perhaps one of the greatest healer of wounds. Even if you are not the one who caused the hurt, letting your loved one know you care can be a great healer too.

Rubber-bands – To remind you to stay flexible. Both outside and inside forces have a way of taking their toll on relationships. We need to remember to bend and flex from time to time. Relationships are made of give and take.

35 Cents - To remind you to be courteous to one another. If you’re going to be late, call. Don’t make your other half worry needlessly.

Last, but not least, plenty of Hugs and Kisses – Because you should start and end each and every day with a hug, a kiss, and plenty of love.