Archive for the 'Christmas' Category

HEART OF CHRISTMAS Book

Christmas, Heart of Christmas, Holidays, Kindle eBooks| No Comments »

IT’S PUBLISHED!

 

 

The newest book in the Heart Book Series is an eBook, Heart of Christmas.

A yuletide collection of original short stories, poems, quotations, humor and cherished memories

To purchase a copy of Heart of Christmas book:
https://www.amazon.com/Heart-of-Christmas-ebook/dp/B00AJMFX56

To purchase a copy of the FULL printed Heart of the Holidays book:
http://www.sparklepresentations.com/store_books_heart_holidays.asp

HEART OF THE HOLIDAYS, released on Kindle Sept. 19, 2012!
Yuletide inspirations: Thanksgiving thru New Year’s!
CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE FOR $4.99

 

 

To purchase a copy of the printed Heart of the Holidays book with BONUS MUSIC CD:
http://www.sparklepresentations.com/store_books_heart_holidays_CD.asp

 

 

To purchase a copy of the printed Heart of the Holidays BONUS MUSIC CD only:
Includes beloved actor Jack Palance’s delightful reading of "Twas the Night Before Christmas."
Music CD produced by WorldSound Productions, Inc., http://www.worldsoundproductions.com/
http://www.sparklepresentations.com/store_heart_holidays_music_cd.asp

WHAT COLOR IS YOUR JESUS?

Christmas, Heart of the Holidays| No Comments »

WHAT COLOR IS YOUR JESUS?
by Lorri V. Allen, Speaker, Author

My husband-to-be had a bleak view of church when we first met. His overriding memory of Sunday school was being punished at age three for coloring Jesus purple.

What the teacher saw as disrespect was more likely a foreshadow of Mark’s artistic talent. Do you think Jesus minded being purple? I don’t. Every culture depicts Jesus a little differently. I have seen fair-skinned, blue-eyed Jesuses (or is it Jesi?), black ones, Asian ones, and in my friend Ellen’s nativity scenes from Mexico, a beautiful brown-eyed, toasty-skinned baby Jesus.

In reality, Jesus probably sported a swarthy complexion, with dark eyes and black hair, like many of the Middle Easterners we see today. But what is more important than color is size. There is no doubt Jesus was an infant. So, next time you see a child, think about Jesus, and how much he loved us to become a baby that burped and spit up. Think about how he might have said his first words or taken his first step.

The color of Jesus’ skin doesn’t matter because if he lives in our hearts, he does look just like we do.

By the way, Mark still isn’t exactly wild about Sunday school, but he likes purple. Best of all, he loves Jesus!

Reprinted from the HEART OF THE HOLIDAYS book, by Sheryl L. Roush

ORDER THE BOOK:
Bask in the glow of winter’s warmth. Celebrate the most blessed time of year with lighthearted tales, original stories and poems, and quotations… Chapters include: Thanksgiving, Christmas, Yuletide Around the Globe, Hanukkah, Winter Solstice, Ringing in the New Year…
ORDER COPIES of the HEART OF THE HOLIDAYS book here.


ORDER THE MUSIC CD:

Touching the heart with music, Heart of the Holidays is a celebration of the season. Included are creative new interpretations of the traditional Chanukah songs "Mo’oz Tsur" and "Sivivon." Two original numbers written and performed by Laurie Z., "Heart of the Holidays" and "Warmth From Within" easily hold their own next to the traditional songs we all know by heart. Playful touches are included, like special guest, late actor Jack Palance singing "I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus," topping it all off with Jack Palance’s delightful reading of "The Night Before Christmas."
ORDER COPIES of the HEART OF THE HOLIDAYS Music CD here.

 

VIEW OTHER BOOKS –AND MUSIC IN THIS SERIES:

Click on title to view each book.
Heart of a Woman (printed)
Heart of a Military Woman (printed) ….. and on Kindle
Heart of a Mother (printed)
Heart of a Mother (printed with Bonus Music CD)
Heart of a Mother …  Music CD
Heart of the Holidays (printed) ….. and on Kindle
Heart of the Holidays … Music CD
Heart of a Woman in Business (printed)

Corazon de Mujer
(printed) (Heart of a Woman in Spanish)

POEM: The Greatest Story Ever Told

Christmas, Heart of the Holidays, Poems| No Comments »

Reprinted from HEART OF THE HOLIDAYS, book by Sheryl L. Roush


The Greatest Story Ever Told

By Rebecca Brinck

Do you remember?
Have you ever known
Of that night in December
When the brightest star shown?
Have you heard the story told
Of that fateful night of old?
The Virgin Mary, the unborn baby,
Looking for a place to stay.
“There is no room in the inn,”
They heard time and time again;
One had compassion, an older fashion,
And led them to the stables.
A newborn babe laid his head,
With a manger for a bed;
The star twinkled bright, with eternal light,
On the baby laid in hay.
Shining angels came to talk;
To shepherds that watched their flock
“I have tidings great,” angels did dictate,
“And news of great joy tonight.”

ORDER THE BOOK:
Bask in the glow of winter’s warmth. Celebrate the most blessed time of year with lighthearted tales, original stories and poems, and quotations… Chapters include: Thanksgiving, Christmas, Yuletide Around the Globe, Hanukkah, Winter Solstice, Ringing in the New Year…
ORDER COPIES of the HEART OF THE HOLIDAYS book here.


ORDER THE MUSIC CD:

Touching the heart with music, Heart of the Holidays is a celebration of the season. Included are creative new interpretations of the traditional Chanukah songs "Mo’oz Tsur" and "Sivivon." Two original numbers written and performed by Laurie Z., "Heart of the Holidays" and "Warmth From Within" easily hold their own next to the traditional songs we all know by heart. Playful touches are included, like special guest, late actor Jack Palance singing "I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus," topping it all off with Jack Palance’s delightful reading of "The Night Before Christmas."
ORDER COPIES of the HEART OF THE HOLIDAYS Music CD here.

 

 

VIEW OTHER BOOKS –AND MUSIC IN THIS SERIES:

Click on title to view each book.
Heart of a Woman (printed)
Heart of a Military Woman (printed) ….. and on Kindle
Heart of a Mother (printed)
Heart of a Mother (printed with Bonus Music CD)
Heart of a Mother …  Music CD
Heart of the Holidays (printed) ….. and on Kindle
Heart of the Holidays … Music CD
Heart of a Woman in Business (printed)

Corazon de Mujer
(printed) (Heart of a Woman in Spanish)

 

NATIVI-TEA (Tea Prayer)

Christmas, Heart of the Holidays, Holidays, Poems| No Comments »

NATIVI-TEA

At the moment of my birth there was a celebration, too.
The angels sang and God was all I knew.
God was all I remembered – for on earth
as in Heaven, we are all one.
To remind us of this God sent us his Son.
Once a year we are reminded of His special birth.
It is a rejoicing that encircles all of the earth.
Gifts are given, hearts open wide,
the focus is on good and we all take pride.
The hope for my daily rebirth is now understood.
A child in a manger, simple and pure;
    a symbol of peace and innocence;
that we are all safe from danger, sound and secure.
To be in God’s presence is the present I truly need.
In this time of celebration I am freed from my own greed.
I live to give – my gifts I share.
I do not hide them or disguise them, nor place them under a tree.
My gifts of love and laughter, kindness and caring were meant for sharing;
not just once a year or for a select few.
The gifts I have are unique to me and I celebrate my own nativity.
Every birth is planned, every child has a right,
every life is precious, delicate and meant to be.
On the tree of life every child’s light shines bright for all to see.
Thank you, God; my own light clears my visibility.
There is a place for each and every one of us on God’s special tree.
We glisten and twinkle in colourful harmony.
We each have our place and together we light up the world as we claim our space;
next to each other, side by side; loving and grateful God takes pride
at the birth of each and every one of His children – that’s you and me.
Christmas is a celebration of all we are and all we can be.
Thank you God, for this divine festivity.

Amen

Dharlene Marie Fahl
Author, Poet, Tea Expert
© 2009
www.TakeUpTheCup.com

Christmas Poem: It Came Upon a Midnight Clear, by Sheryl Roush

Christmas, Heart of the Holidays, Poems| No Comments »

Christmas Poem:
It Came Upon a Midnight Clear
by Sheryl Roush


It came upon a midnight clear
That glorious song of old
God’s child was born to earth so began
The greatest story ever told.

Wise men came to see him there
Laying in soft manger’s hay
Radiant angelic hosts proclaimed
“Unto you a child is born” they say.

Centuries from that first nativity scene
From Christ’s birth, we’ve come to hear
Of God’s plan, Virgin Mary’s gift
Come closer to love, and farther from fear.

Still today, we celebrate that glorious night
Midnight clear, and stars so bright
That all will know of Divine love
And great gifts from Heaven above.

(C) 2007 Sheryl L. Roush
Author of Heart of the Holidays
Speaker, Author, www.SherylRoush.com

 

 

VIEW OTHER BOOKS –AND MUSIC IN THIS SERIES:

Click on title to view each book.
Heart of a Woman (printed)
Heart of a Military Woman (printed) ….. and on Kindle
Heart of a Mother (printed)
Heart of a Mother (printed with Bonus Music CD)
Heart of a Mother …  Music CD
Heart of the Holidays (printed) ….. and on Kindle
Heart of the Holidays … Music CD
Heart of a Woman in Business (printed)

Corazon de Mujer
(printed) (Heart of a Woman in Spanish)

 

Holiday Poem: In Three Words, by Sheryl Roush

Christmas, Heart of the Holidays, Poems| No Comments »

Holiday Poem:
In Three Words
by Sheryl Roush


Memories, Flashbacks, Celebrations
Kisses under mistletoe
Cheery red check
Children wide-eyes
Excited laughing children
Frantic rushing parents
Presents under trees
Receiving favorite things
Proposals and rings
Families traveling far
Driving loaded cars
Sweet hot chocolate
Candy cane treats
Apple Rum Cider
Nutmeg and Eggnog
Making plans early
Late night parties
Singing holiday tunes
Cherished friends re-un
Love abundantly shared
Long airplane flights
Snowed-in delays
Families lovingly reunited
Tears of joy
Cats batting ornaments
Dogs chasing cats
Lights flickering on
Angels atop trees
Sweet treats galore
Frosting sugar cookies
Dipping cheese balls
Avoiding fruit cakes
Exchanging holiday recipes
Joyous carols sung
Hope-filled stockings hung
Crisp snowflakes fall
Card sentiments mailed
Monthly earnings spent
Playing in snow
Sparkling garland shines
Shopping last minute
World peace rings
Packing it up
Storing it away
Waiting another year
Anticipating next year
Doing it again

(C) 2007 Sheryl L. Roush
Author of Heart of the Holidays
Speaker, Author, www.SparklePresentations.com

Yuletide Poem: A Time, by Sheryl Roush

Christmas, Heart of the Holidays, Poems| No Comments »

Yuletide Poem: A Time, by Sheryl Roush
Published in Heart of the Holidays, by Sheryl Roush

 

Yuletide

A time of Celebration
,
Bringing closure to the old year,
Setting resolutions for a better life,
Making goals for the next year.

A time of Gratitude,
Expressing to those near and dear to us,
A special fondness in our hearts.

A time of Hope,
Hope for a better future.
Hope for deeper meaning on our lives.
Hope for strengthened family ties.

A time of Forgiveness,
Letting by-gones by truly by-gone.
Starting anew with fresh, clean slates.

A time of Peace,
A deeep longing for harmony.
Reunion, collaboration, trust.

A time of Spirit,
Celebrating our soul’s profound wisdom of the ages.
Rekindling our uniqueness and collectiveness
as we are ONE on the planet.

We are the Family of God.

A time of Reconnection,
Being back in touch with those we’ve not seen/heard
from in ages,
and picking back up the conversation
right where we left off.

A time of Hearts,
Bonding for the first time.
Reuniting from separation.
Deepening in trust.
Pure, innocent, Divinely connected.
Connections so deep, it’s beyond words.

A time of Humor,
Laughing over advertises won.
Telling our tales of tribulations.
Seeing the irony of it all.
Sharing stories of our life’s adventures.
Recognizing our common journeys.

A time of Love,
Express candidly.
Sharing more openly to others of our true feelings.
Knowing that we are truly loved.
Not for what we have, or for presents given, or promises made.
Just because.
Unconditional, non-judgmental.
The love that connects us all – one heart to the other.
Our Divine umbilical cord soul to soul.
Heart to Heart.

(C) 2007 Sheryl L. Roush
Author of Heart of the Holidays
Speaker, Author, www.SherylRoush.com

 

 

 

VIEW OTHER BOOKS –AND MUSIC IN THIS SERIES:

Click on title to view each book.
Heart of a Woman (printed)
Heart of a Military Woman (printed) ….. and on Kindle
Heart of a Mother (printed)
Heart of a Mother (printed with Bonus Music CD)
Heart of a Mother …  Music CD
Heart of the Holidays (printed) ….. and on Kindle
Heart of the Holidays … Music CD
Heart of a Woman in Business (printed)

Corazon de Mujer
(printed) (Heart of a Woman in Spanish)

 

The Christmas Movie Card

Christmas, Movies| 2 Comments »

The Christmas Movie Card

Terri Marie Whitewing created this special three-minute "Christmas Movie Card" complete with her own music playing in the background to touching photos and statements.

The message within the movie is meant to warm the heart.

The Story Behind the Card
Because of all the moving I’ve done the past several years (5 moves in 5 years)  I just didn’t feel like decorating much for the holidays if it meant looking at one more box. One day the message on the song for the movie came through loud and clear. "Christmas is something you carry in your heart. It’s always here when you feel it."
 
As a reminder when we get stressed out over the holiday Preparations, Decorations, and other such ‘rations, just remember… the Christmas Spirit comes in quietly – softly entering any moment of pure love.
 
Here is a gift of love to you for every holy day that you live.
Let’s spread the Christmas Spirit around the world.

It’s always Christmas inside a warm heart.
VIEW VIDEO HERE
Copyright 2008 White Wing Entertainment

Terri Marie Whitewing is a contributor to the "Heart of the Holidays" book by Sheryl Roush, with her story and poem, "A New Christmas Song? There’s a Reindeer in My Gate" based on a true story.

Holiday Poem: Seasoned Meetings

Christmas, Poems, Thanksgiving| No Comments »


Seasoned Meetings

Turned up collar,
Extra socks,
Find another station,
(Anything but rock,)
 
Something cheery,
Maybe with some bells,
And scrub-faced boys
Who smile as voices swell.
 
Getting in the spirit,
Finding the right mood,
Being very thankful,
You’ve a table full of food.
 
Cozy robes, warm slippers,
A fragrant twinkling tree,
Greetings full of kisses,
Meeting smiles for you and me.
 
It’s holding close the knowing
Of the love you feel today,
Let others feel it showing,
As you pass along their way.
 
It’s keeping Season’s Feelings,
(The Humanity of Man,)
Wrapped in joyful trimmings,
To give all year our plan.

© Reta Lorraine Bowen Taylor
Written Christmas Eve 1986

Reta’s work in also published in the Heart of the Holidays book by Sheryl Roush

Christmas Poem/Prayer: NATIVI-TEA

Christmas, Poems| No Comments »

Christmas Poem/Prayer:
NATIVI-TEA

At the moment of my birth there was a celebration, too.
The angels sang and God was all I knew.
God was all I remembered – for on earth
as in Heaven we are all one.
To remind us of this God sent us his Son.
Once a year we are reminded of His special birth.
It is a rejoicing that encircles all of the earth.
Gifts are given, hearts open wide, the focus is on good
and we all take pride.
The hope for my daily rebirth is now understood.
A child in a manger, simple and pure –
a symbol of peace and innocence –

that we are all safe from danger, sound and secure. 
To be in God’s presence is the present I truly need. 
In this time of celebration I am freed from my own greed.
I live to give – my gifts I share. 
I do not hide them or disguise them,

nor place them under a tree.
My gifts of love and laughter, kindness and caring
were meant for sharing –

not just once a year or for a select few. 
The gifts I have are unique to me
and I celebrate my own nativity. 

Every birth is planned, every child has a right,
every life is precious, delicate and meant to be. 
On the tree of life every child’s light shines bright for all to see.
 Thank you, God; my own light clears my visibility.
There is a place for each and every one of us
on God’s special tree. 

We glisten and twinkle in colourful harmony. 
We each have our place and together
we light up the world as we claim our space –

next to each other, side by side,
loving and grateful God takes pride

 at the birth of each and every one of His children –
that’s you and me.

Christmas is a celebration of all we are and all we can be.
Thank you God, for this divine festivity. 
Amen.


Dharlene Marie Fahl
Author/Inspirational Speaker/Tea Specialist
http://www.takeupthecup.com/
http://www.linkedin.com/in/takeupthecup/
http://www.youpublish.com/dharlenefahlbrittian/
(C) December 2008

Dharlene’s Tea Prayers are also published in the Heart of the Holidays, Heart of a Mother, and Heart of a Woman in Business books by Sheryl Roush.

Let Every Day Be Christmas

Christmas| No Comments »


Let Every Day Be Christmas

Christmas is forever, not for just one day,
for loving, sharing, giving, are not to put away
like bells and lights and tinsel, in some box upon a shelf.
The good you do for others is good you do yourself…

 
Norman Wesley Brooks
"Let Every Day Be Christmas," 1976

Poem: A Christmas Commitment

Christmas, Heart of the Holidays, Poems| No Comments »

Poem: A Christmas Commitment

Being happy is our first commitment
It is a huge gift for our loved ones
It is a box full of wonderful surprises
They will delight us through enchantment
 
Christmas is time for having fun
Enjoy the brightness of the winter sun
When you sometimes are feeling blue
Remember think about God’s route.
 
New Year’s Eve is a true ending
When we are ready to go back and review
What we have learned through living memories
Which make us stronger for a new beginning
 
God gives you a chance of surviving
Keep this greatness in your mind
Sharing love, joy and understanding
They are powerful from a new humankind.
 
By Consuelo Sanchez
December 2008

Consuelo is published in Corazon de Mujer, the inspirational gift book, Heart of a Woman fully translated in Spanish. CLICK HERE TO ORDER.

ORDER the Heart of the Holidays Book here.

Feliz Navidad!

Christmas, Heart of the Holidays, Spanish| No Comments »

Feliz Navidad

Fortuna de amor sean siempre tu sagrado alimento
Esperanzas resurgen en tu cansado y rojo corazón
Latirá aprisa para sentir la suave frescura del viento
Invita a sobrevivir en armonía con una dulce canción
Zurita que manda un mensaje de paz y de amor.
 
Nació Jesús redentor para enseñarte a luchar y creer
Amarte a ti mismo para irradiar alegría y compartir la fe
Voluntad para sobrevivir  ante la adversidad y crecer
Ilusionarte para guardar el regalo de la vida en tu cofre
Dadivas valiosas para rescatar la lejana esperanza
Amigos, familia y sueños de un magnánimo líder
Divino señor siempre a tu lado para que seas más fuerte.

 
Un abrazo cálido y fuerte,
Navidad 2008     
Consuelo  “Cani”
Sanchez
Libros en Espanol, Corazon de Mujer

Sheryl Roush interviewed on Heart of the Holidays Music Release

Christmas, Heart of the Holidays, Interviews| 1 Comment »

Sheryl Roush interviewed
on Heart of the Holidays
Music
CD Release

December 12th inspirational speaker and published author Sheryl Roush was interviewed AGAIN by popular Family Network personality Lorri Allen and veteran newsman Larry Estepa for Mornings!

Ms. Roush was asked to share about the new music CD added to her Heart of the Holidays book, featuring child prodigy pianist at age 16, Laurie Z., 15-time Grammy award nominee consideration artist. The selections, chosen by Janet Cucinotti of Zebra Productions, Inc.,  offers traditional and lively Hanukkah and Christmas songs.

Special treat — Jack Palance, the late actor tells "The Night Before Christmas" with Laurie’s soft music in the background… a CLASSIC.. like you’ve never heard it before! (Curly, from City Slickers, with Billy Crystal.)

Lorri Allen is featured with FOUR of her own stories published in the Heart of the Holidays book!  Copies were given away to callers who phoned in to share their favorite holiday traditions.

"Mornings" is like a chat around the water cooler. It’s a fun, refreshing—but different—way to start the day, equipping listeners with ways to engage friends and co-workers. Informational and inspirational, it’s relationship radio at its best. "Mornings" airs live on SIRIUS Satellite Radio Channel 161 from 6:00-9:00 am ET and on FamilyNet TV from 7:00-9:00 am ET. Check out the Mornings Blog anytime.

LISTEN IN TO THE INTERVIEW

ORDERING INFORMATION:
Heart of the Holidays (book only) is available at Amazon.com, Borders.com, and Borders bookstores (find location near you).

SPECIAL OFFER!
Order the Book with Bonus Music CD for $19.95 and receive the Sparkle-Tudes! A-Z Quotations eBook (value $14.95) free.

Sheryl Roush is President of Sparkle Presentations, Inc., based in San Diego, California. She is a top-rated international conference speaker, and 12-time author. In additional to Heart of the Holidays, her other books include: Heart of a Woman, Heart of a Mother, Heart of a Woman in Business, Corazon de Mujer (Heart of a Woman in Spanish), and Sparkle-Tudes!
Heart of a Mother also has a Bonus Music CD available with the book.

READ REVIEWS HERE

Quotations for Christmas & Hanukkah

Christmas, Quotations| No Comments »

Quotations for Christmas & Hanukkah

To the American People:
Christmas is not a time or a season but a state of mind.
To cherish peace and good will, to be plenteous in mercy,
is to have the real spirit of Christmas.
If we think on these things, there will be born in us a Savior
and over us will shine a star sending its gleam of hope to the world.
~Calvin Coolidge (1872-1933), United States President
Presidential message (December 25, 1927)

Let us remember that the Christmas heart is a giving heart, a wide open heart that thinks of others first.
~George Matthew Adams

Unless we make Christmas an occasion to share our blessings, all the snow in Alaska won’t make it "white."
~Bing Crosby

Our holiday traditions are about connecting with one another.
~Oprah Winfrey

My idea of Christmas, whether old-fashioned or modern, is very simple: loving others. Come to think of it, why do we have to wait for Christmas to do that?
~Bob Hope, American film actor and comedian

My Christmas wish is that we will continue to be thoughtful throughout the year.
~Patti LaBelle

At this time of year, when the sun is most hidden, the holiday of Hanukkah celebrates the rays of hope and light… At such times, we yearn for the sun, and the light and warmth that it provides. Often, it is through simple and unrecognized miracles that we are able to feel the warmth of hope and light.
~Rabbi Rafael Goldstein

If you wish to experience peace, provide peace for another.
~Tenzin Gyatso

Joy is what happens when we allow ourselves to recognize how good things really are.
~Marianne Williamson, Author of A Return To Love

The lights of the Hanukkah menorah that we kindle in our homes are a reminder both of the Menorah in the Temple in Jerusalem and the light that shines brightly within each one of us.
~Libi Astair

When a person is "being with" or "present in the moment" their physical, mental, emotional and spiritual "being-nesses" are in the same place at the same time.
~Brian Klemmer

Thousands of candles can be lighted from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared.
~Buddha

At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us.
~Albert Schweitzer

He who has not Christmas in his heart will never find it under a tree.
~Roy L. Smith

Giving really starts to be better than receiving. I guess that’s a sign of growing up.
~Jewel

Home is familiar and filled with tradition. It’s aunts, uncles, cousins and lifelong friends.
~Brian Naylor

Mail your packages early so the post office can lose them in time for Christmas.
~Johnny Carson
 
I stopped believing in Santa Claus when I was six.
Mother took me to see him in a department store and he asked for my autograph.
~Shirley Temple

Once again, we come to the holiday season, a deeply religious time that each of us observes, in his own way, by going to the mall of his choice.
~Dave Barry

There’s nothing sadder in this world than to awake Christmas morning and not be a child.
~Erma Bombeck

It is the personal thoughtfulness, the warm human awareness, the reaching out of the self to one’s fellow man that makes giving worthy of the Christmas spirit.
~Isabel Currier

Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful."   
~Norman Vincent Peale (1898-1993)
Pastor, Speaker and Author

For Yuletide quotations, stories, poems, traditions and treasures, see the book Heart of the Holidays, by Sheryl Roush


Heart of the Holidays
book is available only here with a BONUS MUSIC CD of Christmas and Hanukkah selections, by talented pianist Laurie Z., and beloved actor Jack Palance.

62nd Annual Mother Goose Parade

Christmas, Heart of the Holidays, Stories, Thanksgiving| 1 Comment »

62nd Annual Mother Goose Parade

THEME: "Heroes of Might and Magic"

Sunday, November 23, 2008 at 10:00 a.m.

The Mother Goose Parade is the largest parade in San Diego County and the largest of its type west of the Mississippi. Each year, the parade attracts thousands of spectators to the streets of El Cajon, California to view the parade for free on the "Sunday before Thanksgiving."  CLICK HERE for the Mother Goose official website.

The extravagant Mother Goose Parade is recognized as the official start of the holiday season in San Diego County.

The tradition of the Mother Goose Parade is to unite friends and families on a day of free family entertainment; and to understand the value of unity, family bonding, and social togetherness for all ages, races, and ethnicities that this parade is designed for.

 

Each year, the Parade entices new elements to insure the highest entertainment value of our partners and sponsors; and the enjoyment of the thousands of spectators that line the streets. Grandstands open at 7:00am. Parade kicks off at 10:00am

Pre-Parade Concert entertianment is MENUDO!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The 2008 Honorary Grand Marshals are Tori Spelling (90210), KayCee Stroh, and the San Diego Padres Adrian Gonzalez.

This year we are proud to present our family-oriented theme, "Heroes of Might and Magic" that will guarantee to bring smiles to children’s faces. "The Hulk" Lou Ferrigno is appearing!


This is more than a parade, it’s an event!

Parade day for a spectacular event of colorful and exciting entries for people of all ages, especially our children, that continues to thrill spectators with the old-fashion spirit of magic and fun that is America.

Volunteer Parade Route Announcers are members of Toastmasters International, the world’s largest non-profit educational organization dedicated to effective communication and leadership. Local Toastmasters are members of District 5.

HISTORY OF THE PARADE

Prominent El Cajon businessman Thomas Wigton was driving home from Los Angeles one rainy evening and had a brainstorm! The El Cajon business community had to give the children a Christmas present and he hit on the idea of a parade. Everybody loves a parade and El Cajon didn’t have one yet but Tom knew the kids in El Cajon would love it!

Seven of them met in El Cajon accountant David Cathers living room in 1947. Jack Maranda remembers it well. "When Tom Wigton asked you to help, you really didn’t say no to him," Jack chuckled. "We all thought it was a great idea but we really didn’t know how we were going to do it."

They received a $150 donation from the City of El Cajon’s Chamber of Commerce, called meetings and planned the first parade for Friday night, November 28, 1947. The Mayor of El Cajon made a televised announcement the night before the parade. "We’re having a parade tomorrow and want you all to come." Population in El Cajon was approximately 1,500 and parade night was bitterly cold. However, about 25,000 spectators packed the short streets to watch the parade! Three floats were entered and the El Cajon Rotary Club probably got the most attention. A tree was part of the display and the float’s Santa climbed it to give the audience a better view. His costume got stuck and he was suspended from the tree for the duration of the parade. Everyone thought it was planned and loved it.

The parade’s success and reputation spread throughout the country. The third parade drew 100,000 and an ad hoc committee was formed to plan the next parades. In 1950, the non-profit Mother Goose Parade Association was formed. By-laws were created, officers were elected and the Mother Goose Parade Association logo and name were registered as trademarks.

In 1950, the parade expanded to include a parade Queen and Court. Young women in the area were invited to compete in the Queen’s contest to raise funds for the parade and the Rotary Club, El Cajon Lions, Kiwanis Clubs and Chamber of Commerce actively participated to ensure the parade’s success. Decals were sold to raise money and grandstand seats were made available. The growth was visible but Mother Nature stepped in to throw a curve. Rain fell so hard that year a float driver smashed into a light pole because he couldn’t see. The parade was postponed until 8:00 p.m. on Thanksgiving night and, despite the holiday, the parade still drew over 100,000 spectators. In 1982, a weekend downpour forced cancellation.

In 1963, history stepped in. More than 300,000 spectators and 94 units were in place when word was received President John F. Kennedy was assassinated. The parade was postponed to December 1st due to the tragedy.

The parade attracted over 400,000 in 1973 when Mickey and Minnie Mouse were Co-Grand Marshals and brought many Disneyland friends along to delight the spectators. That year, the "Mother Goose Ball" was the event of San Diego County and drew socialites from all over the Southland.

Prominent personalities who have participated in the parade include Juliette Prowse, Barry Sullivan, Barbara Rush, David Niven, Liza Minneli, Will Geer, Glen Ford, Natalie Wood and Robert Wagner and innumerable elected officials and distinguished honorees. The Clydesdale Horses, U. S. Navy and U. S. Marine Corps bands have also performed and thrilled the spectators.

The parade association Board of Directors continues to consist of prominent members of the community who volunteer time and money to keep Tom Wigton’s dream alive and thriving. The association also receives much volunteer support from everyone who cares about supporting an event that honors family values, children and giving back to the community. The Mother Goose Parade Association is part of El Cajon’s fiber, and supporters and sponsors proudly participate in the parade and program and display their membership certificates and decals.

The Queen’s Contest has become a valuable and impressive experience for young women in high school and college. In addition to raising money for the association through sales of decals, memberships in the association, program ads and coronation tickets, they are given lessons in a variety of areas to enhance their personal and professional lives. They attend meetings where guest speakers tutor them about salesmanship, courtesy, family values, wardrobe, hair styling, makeup, walking, public speaking and other topics. They also receive instruction on various skills like karate and the end result is a well-rounded instruction to give them poise and experience to handle real-life situations at school, home and in the work place. Academic achievement is a pre-requisite to acceptance and written essays and response to questions asked by judges are some bases for selection. The winning queen and princesses make appearances at the annual parade and other events throughout the year. Scholarships are also given for college tuitions.

Some annual association fundraisers are the Mother Goose Parade Golf Tournament, and the famous Men’s Banquet. Tickets are also sold for the pageant Coronation where the new queen and princesses are chosen. The Coronation is a celebration that includes a sit-down dinner and recognizes the outgoing Queen and Court for representing the association throughout the year with grace and pride.

Today, spectators line the streets as the parade continues to grow as an extravaganza with different themes each year. Floats may choose a nursery rhyme theme or a display related to the annual theme, which are judged for distinguished awards. Parade entries include marching units, bands, floats, clowns, equestrians, performing artists, beautiful cars, the Queen and Court, other spectacular elements that provide entertainment, and don’t forget, Santa Claus, to ring in the Holiday Season.

The Mother Goose Parade is rich in history and delights children of all ages every "Sunday before Thanksgiving" which signals the beginning of the Christmas season as Santa comes to town at the end of the parade in his sleigh on his own special float pulled by model reindeer that soar through the sky.

The parade has evolved into San Diego’s largest parade and the largest of its kind west of the Mississippi. The event is broadcast on local television for viewers of San Diego County which increases in number each year.

Parade weekend signals the beginning of Christmas festivities and is truly what it was originally intended to be . . . a "Celebration of Children Everywhere" because without the children, there is no future. It’s also a gift to our city and our country. But it’s mainly our gift to children of all ages . . . a day of mystical imagination, unhindered joy and excitement – a day to be remembered the rest of the year and the rest of their lives.

“Heart of the Holidays” Book Review by Angela England

Christmas, Hanukkah, Heart of the Holidays, New Year's, Thanksgiving, Winter Solstice| No Comments »

“Heart of the Holidays”
Book Review
by Angela England

Type-A Mom Gift Guide – Gifts for Moms
Monday, 10 November 2008
Click here to see original post.

The perfect size for giving, a woman who enjoys reading could not get a better gift book for the Yuletide Holidays than this charming book, Heart of the Holidays: Holiday Inspirations Yuletide Treasures and Traditions by Sheryl Roush.

This delightful book came at the perfect time for me as I begin to look forward to the holidays and felt the stress of Thanksgiving preparation creeping up on me. Heart of the Holidays: Holiday Inspirations Yuletide Treasures & Traditions is written by Sheryl Roush and was published by Sparkle Press. As I curl up on the couch to feed my newborn, this holiday collection is easy to thumb through for a few minutes.

Not too heavy or bulky, the easy-to-read format of Heart of the Holidays, makes this book the perfect present to tuck into a stocking, present as a hostess gift for Thanksgiving and Christmas parties, or give on one of the days of Hanukkah. It makes the perfect book for bedroom end table, bathroom magazine rack, or to read just in bits and pieces if you are as busy as I am.

What Readers Will See in Heart of the Holidays

Heart of the Holidays presents readers with over 225 pages of delightful poems, quotes, stories, excerpts, songs, and inspiring sayings in six categories: Thanksgiving; Christmas; Yuletide Around the Globe; Hanukkah; Winter Solstice; and Ringing in the New Year.

I appreciated the range of quotes that were included by Sheryl Roush, covering the range from proverbial sayings, to traditional historic figures, to humorous quips by modern celebrities. For example, in the Thanksgiving section she quotes Oprah Winfrey saying, "The more you praise and celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate."

Not just quotes and songs, Roush has brought together the best of the holiday stories and essays available and gathered them altogether in one place. One of my favorites of these was in the Yuletide Around the Globe chapter, an excerpt from Helena Steiner-Hornsteyn, who says in a portion of Christmas in Sweden, "Even if you happen to live in a huge country mansion with a large dining room, on Christmas Eve you always eat in the kitchen together with those who mean something to you. Even if you are very sick you should appear for this meal to show the spirit of Christmas. Because at Christmas there are no barrier and no separations."

These thoughtful and uplifting samples are only a taste of what Heart of the Holidays by Sheryl Roush has to offer as a charming gift for a book lover, or harried housewife alike.

Where to buy Heart of the Holidays: Holiday Inspirations Yuletide Treasures & Traditions

JUST RELEASED: Heart of the Holidays the book plus the Heart of the Holidays BONUS MUSIC CD…. for only $19.95.
CLICK HERE

Christmas Story: Do You Believe?

Christmas, Heart of the Holidays| No Comments »

Christmas Story: Do You Believe?

The family attended Christmas Eve service together, bringing my nephew Peter, and niece, Alison, to their first Christian services, since moving from Australia to the US. When the minister invited the small children forward to hear the story of the birth of Christ, little 3-year-old Alison went to the front of the pulpit and attentively listened.

Back to the pews, we stood and sang numerous hymnals, followed by the outdoor candle lighting service and more songs. Driving back to my parents house in a quiet moment Alison broke the silence with her precious Aussie dialect, “Auntie Sheryl, do you believe in Jesus?”  “Yes I do.”  With self-assuredness she replied, “I thought so!” (I silently gasped for air to keep myself from crying deeply at this momentous occasion.)
~Sheryl Roush, Speaker, Author, Proud Aunt
www.SparklePresentations.com

Published in Heart of the Holidays, by Sheryl L. Roush.
Order here for autographed gift copies.

Christmas Story: 365 Days of Sparkle

Christmas, Heart of the Holidays, Stories| No Comments »

Christmas Story: 365 Days of Sparkle


Published in Heart of the Holidays

Believing strongly that the true essence of Christmas is not only on ONE day every year, my white spiral lighted Christmas is up all year long, in my TV room, donned with cherished ornaments of great sentimental value from my travels and dearest of friends. Christmas lives on for me – every day! Whenever I pass by it, any day of the year, I remember that friend and the heartfelt love we share. And yes, having the tree up all year through DOES let the cat play with the lower ornaments for more than the typically designated two week period… so he’s a happy kitty, too! 

Loving the SPARKLE, I also keep up metallic garlands of different colors around the house all year long. It brings joy to my heart. At Thanksgiving the garland is gold, orange, olive green with beautifully color-coordinated Fall leaves. Then there’s purple and bright yellow for Easter. And silver and gold stars through the year.

One of my friends asked me once, “Do you think that you can ever have too much Sparkle?”  “I don’t think so!”  I think the WORLD could use more sparkle – what better way to see hope, joy, optimism, feel good about yourself even in dull times…

~Sheryl Roush, Speaker, Author, www.SparklePresentations.com
Order your autographed gift copies of Heart of the Holidays here.

POEM: Vegan Christmas

Christmas, Heart of the Holidays, Poems, Thanksgiving| No Comments »

Vegan Christmas

Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the house,
Nothing’s overnight baking, not Lamb and not Grouse.

Making plans for the morning, health-conscious are we,
Jotting it down, while sipping White Green Tea.

We’ll start with Wheatgrass – a 2 ounce shot,
Toasting healthy bodies with no meat in the pot.

Most thankful are we as we pause to say grace,
For not getting caught up in the holiday rat race.

Sparkling Pomegranite Juice in a wine glass,
Light up the stove – we’re cookin’ with gas!

Pita chips and hummus are starter pre-meal,
Carrots, Jicama, Bell Peppers – the natural deal.

Uncork the vintage Sauvignon Blanc,
Segura Viudas Spanish bubbly you can take to the bank!

Fresh garden salad, sunflower seeds and sprouts,
There’s enough for everyone – so no one pouts.

Simmer a pot of Cous Cous, or Basmati Rice,
Baked Butternut Squash would surely be nice.

Raw Sugar Snap Peas, and baked Yummy Yam,
Doing well avoiding Duck, Turkey and Ham.

Brown Rice Bread, Lentil Veggie soup, too.
Wow – without meat and dairy – there’s so much you can do!

Chocolate Tofu Mousse Cake – well-chilled,
With graham cracker crust, I’m not that strong-willed!

Organic Pumpkin Pie – served piping hot.
Sugar-free, you ask?  I think NOT!

Author of Heart of the Holidays, Sheryl Roush, www.SparklePresentations.com

Entries RSS | Comments RSS