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Hi everyone!

Okay, first things first.

I would like to thank all of you for your comments on my previous post and for stopping by to check up on me these past few weeks during my absence. That really touched me.

Yes, I’m still alive (well, half alive) and surviving this retail season.

Outside of working 9-10 hours a day and being utterly exhausted from TALKING all day, it’s actually been a very good season so far. Customers have been pleasant and are SPENDING. Somehow the ‘energy’ of this holiday season has been different than those in the past. Customers seem to have the true Christmas spirit, being patient, jolly, and very enjoyable to wait on.

Sure, I’ve had a few PAIN IN MY ASS CUSTOMERS, but most everyone else has been cool.

I’ve also had some really great things transpire since I last posted.

Meeting Frankie - I finally met Frankie, the gentleman I posted about last month. And can just tell you how excited and honored I was to meet with him and have the opportunity to say (in person) how much of an inspiration he is to me. I was very moved in meeting him.

And I was right…..he is a very special person.

He’s a beacon of positive energy, which you can feel in his presence. He’s both extremely confident, yet humble. He lives what he believes and practices - there is no such thing as limitation.

I am also VERY excited to say that Frankie has agreed to do an interview with me on my blog next month, when he will answer some questions and share the story of his life, prior and after his motorcycle accident. You will also have the opportunity to response and ask him questions in your comments. When he and I spoke last week, he conveyed to me how anxious he is to do this interview and meet all of YOU because he was so touched by your comments on my previous post about him. So please stay tuned because I have a feeling you’re going to REALLY enjoy this post.

My New Computer – I finally purchased a new desktop computer and am LOVING it! I got a great deal on an HP Pavilion, which ended up being a better and less expensive computer than I had originally been searching for. I’ll be sharing more about that in a future post.

Meeting a fellow blogger – I also had the opportunity to meet up with one of my longtime blogging friends, Dianne at Forks Off The Moment. She made a day-trip into Philadelphia earlier this month, when she and I attended an outstanding performance of The King And I, and then went out for dinner with one of the cast members. Dianne is everything and more I had imagined. She’s an AWESOME gal. Thanks for a great day, dear lady!

Anyway folks, I’ve been thinking about you all and missing the hell out of blogging. I can’t wait to get back into the swing of things and catch up with you.

I hope you’re enjoying this holiday season and savoring those precious moments.

I won’t be posting again until right after Christmas, so I wanted to take this time to wish you and your families a very MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Thank you for making this year a very special one by sharing your lives with me. You make my life richer in knowing you.

You guys ROCK!

I would like to leave you with a photo that was taken on Christmas day in 1959, when I was only four years old. Please notice how I’m sitting in front of a toy piano, wearing my pajamas and pair of Rocky and Bullwinkle roller skates.

Apparently, I once had great aspirations of becoming the next Wolfgang Amadeus; playing Carnegie Hall while skating across the stage in my pj's....


MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!

X

62 comments:

  1. Hi everyone!

    Since this last week before Christmas will be extremely insane for me, I may be a bit slower in responding to your comments.

    Thank you so much for your patience and understanding.

    Have a merry week!

    X
    .

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  2. Hey! I loved Rocky and Bullwinkle! Wow! You got to meet Diane! How fun!! Glad to hear your season is going well...retail can be unforgiving during the holiday season!! Having been through several seasons...I can relate!! Merry Christmas to you and yours!!
    xo
    Jeanne

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  3. 'Anyway folks, I’ve been thinking about you all and missing the hell out of blogging. I can’t wait to get back into the swing of things and catch up with you.'

    And I can't wait to welcome you back. Enjoyed this post, my friend. Meeting Frankie must have been a real highlight for you and I can't wait to meet him on your blog. AND a new computer... well done, you.

    Hope you have a very special Christmas and a happy New Year. Catch you later.

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  4. Glad to hear the run up to Christsmas hasn't taken too much of a toll on you Ron. How wonderful that you got to meet Frankie and Dianne!

    Wishing you the Happiest Christmas m'deario and wishing you Good Health and Happiness for the New Year. xx

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  5. ((((((((( Ron )))))))))))

    Awwwwwww........how cute are you in your little squirrelly skates and jammies sitting by the piano! (cuter than me in my jammies and quacking duckie slippers at the computer, I must say! LOL)

    And now that I've had a good listen to Nat King Cole (oh, he had such a wonderful voice....) I can settle into a good cuppa coffee knowing it's been a fantastic season for you and you've not been swallowed alive by the 'uglies' that sometimes swallow people.
    Wow have you been graced with some really cool things! VERY cool things.
    I'll wait for 'the rest of the story'--but the 'teasers' alone made me smile. So it's all good.

    It's the downhill slide now!
    Almost there!
    I'm gonna hope the spirit of the holiday continues to be demonstrated through great happiness and joy as you cross paths with people shopping til they drop. I've no doubt you're humming a tune or two and adding to the festiveness. Antlers and red nose would be good, too. Elf hat, even! :-)

    Although it's been said, many times, many ways-- Merry Christmas to you.

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  6. AWESOME photo and AWESOME update! Looking forward to hearing more after the holidays are over. Thanks so much, Ron, for sharing with us and being such a great friend. Love you! Merry Christmas!

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  7. Ron, have a wonderful Christmas and a brilliant New Year!

    How great that you met Frankie and that he's going to do an interview!!! I'm jealous you met with Dianne, she is an amazing blogger and I know she's just as amazing in person. Lucky you!

    Relax about answering comments. We're all patient and in somewhat of a Christmas spirit too.

    Love you, Bro!

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  8. OMG! Tommy Hilfiger has a giant ball in his face!
    Never mind ...

    I adored our time together
    you are the most welcoming and charming and wonderful person
    and I loved seeing the show with someone who truly appreciates the theater
    I owe you an e-mail of pictures

    try to keep on keeping on

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  9. Hi, Ron. Great post! Thanks for keeping us informed. I'm so glad that your customers "seem to have the true Christmas spirit, being patient, jolly, and very enjoyable to wait on." Looks like Tiny Tim's wish has come true for you! Congratulations on the new computer--use it in good heatlh. I'm glad you got to meet a fellow blogger and I'm so psyched about the Frankie interview--can't wait to read it. Love that photo! I'd think you'd like great rolling around Carnegie Hall in your pjs. But, tell me something...whatever happened to those Rocky and Bullwinkle roller skates?!? Take care and have a great holiday, buddy!!!

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  10. Hey there Dianne~

    "OMG! Tommy Hilfiger has a giant ball in his face!
    Never mind ..."

    Bwhhahahahahahahahaha!

    OMG....I LOVE YOU, WOMAN!

    "I adored our time together"

    Ditto! It was freakin' AWESOME meeting you. I was talking about you (and the great time we had) to everyone at work. They LOVED meeting you! The show was WONDERFUL, and so was Angelica! Thanks again for the tickets.

    Have a great week, dear lady! Wishing you and your family a Merry Christmas!

    X

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  11. Hey Lady Nitebyrd~

    I am so excited about sharing this interview with Frankie. He's the coolest guy and SUCH an inspiration! I know you guys are going to really enjoy hearing his story and finally meeting him.

    Yes, meeting Dianne was BEYOND faaaaaaaaaabulous! It felt I was meeting an old friend. She's exactly like she appears on her blog - funny, direct, and utterly dynamic!

    Thanks so much for stopping by and for your understanding about responding to comments right now - I'm sooooooooooooo busy.

    Have a wonderful Christmas and a brilliant New Year!

    See ya soon!

    Love ya, Sis!

    X

    P.S. thank you for your Christmas card!

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  12. Hiya Bijoux~

    Thank you. I took that first shot outside of Macy's window. The other one of me in the roller skates, I found in a box of old family photos. I HOWLED when I saw it!

    Hope you're enjoying this holiday season, my friend.

    Thanks so much for stopping by and for your sweet words. I look forward to catching up with you guys real soon!

    Merry Christmas to you and your family!

    Love you too!

    X

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  13. Hiya Mel~

    "cuter than me in my jammies and quacking duckie slippers at the computer, I must say!"

    HAHAHHAHAHAHAHA! OMG...you HAVE to post a photo of that on your blog because I'm DYING to see that image!!!

    Don't you just LOVE Nat King Coles voice? SMOOOOOTH. The song I placed on my sidebar was one of my fathers favorite Christmas songs by Nat King Cole. He would play it over and over again!

    "It's the downhill slide now!

    Almost there!"

    Yes, so far, this year in retail has been really great. I'm hoping it continues throughout the week.

    *fingers crossed*

    Thanks oodles for stopping by and checking up on me last week. You're a doll!

    "Although it's been said, many times, many ways-- Merry Christmas to you."

    And to you too, dear lady!

    (((((( Mel ))))))))

    Merry Christmas to you and your family!

    X to you and bug!

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  14. Hi Akelamalu~

    Yes, meeting both Frankie AND Dianne this month made my holidays so much brighter!

    Both of them are AWESOME people!

    Thanks so much for stopping by and for your well-wishes, m'dear!

    (((( You )))))

    Wishing you and your family a spectacular Christmas!

    Talk to ya soon!

    X

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  15. Hey there Valerie~

    Aw...thanks, dear lady! I can't wait until I get back to my normal work hours so that I can BLOG again!!!!!

    Yes, meeting Frankie was the COOLEST thing! We met up for coffee last week and talked for over an hour. I can't get over how excited he is to do this interview. He's quite the celebrity here in Philadelphia, and has been written up in several news articles because of his positive outlook on life. The man is amazing!

    I can't wait for you guys to meet him and hear his story.

    Thanks so much for stopping by, dear lady. Wishing you a very special Christmas and a Happy New Year too!

    We'll talk soon!

    X

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  16. Greetings Jeanne~

    "Hey! I loved Rocky and Bullwinkle!"

    Meeeeee too! Wasn't that the greatest cartoon?? I wanted those Rocky roller skates SO BAD that year!!!! I remember skating around the house ALL DAY and not wanting to take them off. I think I even SLEPT in them - HA!

    Yes, so far, this holiday retail season has been very forgiving. I can't get over how JOLLY and PATIENT everyone is! This next week will be very intense because of all the last minute shoppers, however I'm keeping my fingers crossed that the JOLLINESS continues - HA!

    Thanks so much for stopping by today. Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas! It's been so nice meeting you this year!

    Talk to ya soon!

    X

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  17. Hey there Rob~

    " I'm so glad that your customers "seem to have the true Christmas spirit, being patient, jolly, and very enjoyable to wait on." Looks like Tiny Tim's wish has come true for you!"

    HA! You're right! It's funny, because this year just seems very different in terms of people being in the true holiday spirit. And I'm soooo glad!

    Yes, I'm loving my new computer. I got it on an amazing clearance sale at Staples.

    Can't WAIT to share Frankie's interview. He's just as excited about it as I am. You guys are gonna love his positive attitude. He was deeply touched by everyone's comments on my previous post and wants to thank you all.

    "I'd think you'd like great rolling around Carnegie Hall in your pjs. But, tell me something...whatever happened to those Rocky and Bullwinkle roller skates?!? "

    HA! Thank you! Actually, I have no idea whatever happened to those Rocky and Bullwinkle skates!?! I probably sold them on Ebay - HAHAHAHAHA!

    Thanks so much for stopping by, buddy! Wishing you a fantabulous Christmas!

    Talk to ya soon!

    X

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  18. OMG you were so adorable! Not like you still aren't but you know what i mean! What a little doll.

    I hope your holidays continue on their positive note and I can't wait to hear more about Frankie. Have a wonderful Christmas!

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  19. What great aspirations...I'll bet you did skate Carnegie in those pj's but swore to never blog about it because then you'd be obligated to tell us "the rest of the story'!
    Glad the retail season is not making you insane.
    Can't wait for your interview with Frankie!
    Hope the last week of the craziness goes well and you have a Merry Christmas!

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  20. YIPPPPEEEEEEEE!!!! A blog post from Ron!!!

    I'm so glad to hear from you and how everything is going.

    I can't wait to read the interview post. I am sure it is going to be a great one. With my husband being in an M/C, I see entirely too many people hurt or killed on motorcycles every year. It is so sad.

    I want to wish YOU a very Merry Christmas and a happy and prosperous New Year, dear friend.

    Get some rest!

    XOXO

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  21. Merry Christmas Ron!

    Don't worry about responding, because I know that your thoughts fly through the wind to all of us. You are a dear, sweet man and I hope that you get to enjoy some much-needed downtime at the end of the shopping extravaganza that is Christmas. I look forward to you returning and the interview with Frankie. How delightful! I am sure that it will make us all cry, so a good thing you are keeping it for the new year.

    All my love & hope for a blissful holiday
    Katherine

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  22. You do live in Philly, so I'm not at all surprised there's a ROCKY theme running through your life. Sorry that your piano/PJ/skating dreams fizzled out, but you are still living the high life, my friend - what with meeting fellow bloggers and interviewing great people like Frankie and all! Looking forward to reading that one when you post it.

    Hope you have a merry Christmas and don't work too hard between now and then!

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  23. Hey there Peg~

    Aw.....thank you. It's funny, because when I look at that photo I can actually remember what it felt like to WEAR those skates!

    Memories light the corners of my mind!

    Yes, I am sooooooooo looking forward to interviewing Frankie on my blog next month. I think you guys are gonna really enjoy what he has to share. He's truly an inspiration!

    Thanks so much for stopping by, dear friend. Always FAB to see ya!

    Wishing you and your family a VERY Merry Christmas!

    And thanks again for your post yesterday. I was so touched.

    (((( Peg )))))

    X

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  24. Hiya SuziCate~

    "...I'll bet you did skate Carnegie in those pj's but swore to never blog about it because then you'd be obligated to tell us "the rest of the story'!"

    HAHAHAHAHAHAAHHAHAAHA! You're right!!!!! Yes, I was opening act for Judy Garland when she performed at Carnegie Hall.

    NOT!

    "Glad the retail season is not making you insane."

    Thank you. It's actually been very sane this year, however I'm exhausted. All I want to do when I get home is CRASH on the floor and rub my feet!

    I'm soooo looking forward to sharing an interview with Frankie. You guys are gonna love meeting him. And he's so looking forward to meeting you all!

    Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend. Hope you're enjoying this holiday season.

    Wishing you and your family an AWESOMELY Merry Christmas!

    Talk to ya soon!

    X

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  25. Hey MYFWBS~

    Thank you, girl. You're such a sweetheart!

    (((( You )))))

    I miss the hell out of you guys and can't WAIT to get back to blogging again. For the past two weeks, it feels as though a HUGE part of my life is missing. I'm so looking forward to having the whole month of January off and just chillin'.

    "I can't wait to read the interview post. I am sure it is going to be a great one. With my husband being in an M/C, I see entirely too many people hurt or killed on motorcycles every year. It is so sad."

    And I can't wait to share this interview with Frankie. He's as excited about it as I am because he's so looking forward to meeting you all and sharing his story. I think you guys are gonna love it!

    Thanks a BUNCH for stopping by, dear friend.

    Wishing you, your family, and friends a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year too!

    It's been a delight getting to know you this year. I look forward to sharing 2012 with you!

    Talk to ya soon!

    XOXO

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  26. Merry Christmas Katherine!

    "Don't worry about responding, because I know that your thoughts fly through the wind to all of us."

    Aw...thank you. And you're right, my thoughts ARE flying through the wind to all of you! I miss you guys a lot!

    Outside of being exhausted at night when I get home, it's been a really enjoyable retail season. And I hope continues through this week! :)

    "I look forward to you returning and the interview with Frankie. How delightful! I am sure that it will make us all cry, so a good thing you are keeping it for the new year."

    Yes, that's exactly WHY I'm saving Frankie's interview for the new year, because I think it will be a GREAT way to start it off 2112 - with an inspirational story. His positive attitude is truly AMAZING!

    Thanks so much for stopping by, dear lady. And thank you for your sweet and kinds words. They made made me feel great after a looooooooong and tiring day at work.

    ((((( You )))))

    X ya bunches!

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  27. Howdy Mark~

    "You do live in Philly, so I'm not at all surprised there's a ROCKY theme running through your life."

    Bwhahahahahhahahaha! OMG...you KILL ME, man!

    And yeah, you should see me running up and down the stairs at the Philadelphia Art Museum, yelling, "YO...ADRIAN!"

    "Sorry that your piano/PJ/skating dreams fizzled out, but you are still living the high life, my friend - what with meeting fellow bloggers and interviewing great people like Frankie and all!"

    Aw...thank you, buddy! And yes, you're right, I am living the high life with meeting fellow bloggers and interviewing great people like Frankie. However, one day I STILL want to play a piano (chopsticks) while skating across the Carnegie Hall stage in my pj's. Because I truly think that will be my BIG break - HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!

    Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend. Hope you're enjoying the holidays with Tara!

    Merry Christmas, Mark! It's been such a treat getting to know you this year!

    X

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  28. Hi Ron! Just wanted to stop by to wish you a very Merry Christmas!

    Glad to hear that everything is going well in retail this year, but I'm sure you're thoroughly exhausted from it all. Get some rest and take care of yourself.

    I can't wait to read your interview with Frankie. I was so excited to read that, and am so looking forward to hearing what he has to say. How wonderful!

    Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you!

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  29. Hola Denise

    Hi, girl! So nice to see ya!

    I'm so delighted at how smooth everything seems to be going in retail this year, but yes, I am exhausted. I can't wait to have the whole month of January off, so I can relax and renew! I'm hoping to get to NYC in early January so I can see the holiday decorations which will still be up.

    I can't wait to share my interview with Frankie because he's very open and honest about everything he's gone through; sharing all that he has learned. I know you guys are gonna love hearing from him!

    Thanks so much for stopping by, Denise. Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas!

    Talk to you soon!

    X

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  30. What a fantastic photo! I always wish I could jump into one of those photos from long ago and just look around.
    It's so funny you have noticed a shift in the mood this year. I was just telling someone that it felt like the first Christmas in years that people actually seemed festive and interested in the holiday. I'm so glad the customers are being pleasant.
    Can't wait for that interview with Frankie. Sounds fascinating. Also, will love to catch up one of these days after things slow down for you. Merry, merry!

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  31. Alaina @ ViewfromdownhereTuesday, December 20, 2011

    Love the roller skates! Very stylish!

    Stopping by from Peg's blog :-) Merry Christmas!

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  32. Greetings Alaina~

    Welcome! Thank you for stopping by via Peg's blog. It's so nice to meet you!

    "Love the roller skates! Very stylish!"

    Thank you. Yes, aren't they chic? They were the latest thing from Chanel!

    HAHAHAHHAHAHAHA!

    And a Merry Christmas to you too! As soon as things slow down for me at work, I'll be sure to stop by your blog.

    Have a grrrreat week, Alaina!

    Enjoy the holidays!

    X

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  33. Good morning Jen~

    Aw...thank you. I found that photo whilst digging through some old family photographs last week.

    "I always wish I could jump into one of those photos from long ago and just look around."

    Meeeee too! I LOVE old photos!

    "It's so funny you have noticed a shift in the mood this year. I was just telling someone that it felt like the first Christmas in years that people actually seemed festive and interested in the holiday."

    Isn't that something? I'm so glad you noticed it too. Everyone genuinely seems like they're in the holiday spirit this year. And I'm so glad because it's making my job so much more enjoyable.

    Can't WAIT to share my interview with Frankie next month. I'm so excited!!!!

    Yes, let's catch up after things slow down. I would love to talk with you.

    Have a VERY Merry Christmas, my friend!

    (((( Jen ))))

    Talk to ya soon!
    X

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  34. ...Okay, seriously, how cute were you as a child?! My word! Ah-dorable! ;o)

    ...I've been thinking about you with this busy holiday season and all and hope it is going well. I'm glad to hear that people are being kind and that they are spending too.

    ...So happy you finally met 'Frankie' and I can't wait to read the interview. And congrat's on the new 'puter! I'm hoping for a new one next year, as well as a camera too. I don't want much, do I? *giggle*shrug*

    ...Please be sure you eat well, get plenty of sleep, take your vitamins and drink lots o' fluids, 'kay? And a lil' martini or wine now and then wouldn't hurt either. ;o)

    ..."Merry Christmas" my friend! I hope this holiday brings you much joy, peace and love!

    ...Thank you for being (((you)))!

    ...Blessings :o)

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  35. A good morning to you dear TJ~

    Aw...thank you. I was trying to find a photo to conclude this post, when last week I spotted this one while looking through some old family photographs. I can STILL remember what it felt like to wear those Rocky and Bullwinkle skates - HA!

    Yes, even though I'm insanely busy at work right now, it's been such a pleasure to wait on nice customers. Honestly, people seem to be in a much better holiday mood than previous years.

    I'm so happy that Frankie agreed to share an interview on my blog. I can't wait to put it together for next month. You guys are gonna love hearing his story. What an amazing human being he is!

    LOVIN' my new computer! It's got a HUGE monitor, lots of memory, and a really fast processor. I was so lucky because I got it on a GREAT clearance sale. I think after the holidays you'll find some great deals out there on computers as well as cameras. In fact, I bought my current camera last year in January - on sale!

    Thanks so much for stopping by, dear lady. I miss ya and can't wait to get back to blogging!

    Have a GLORIOUS Christmas!

    And thank you for being in my life. You're a GEM!

    ((((( TJ )))))

    X

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  36. Hey Ronnie,

    I am tickled pink to see this post and to have talked to ya today on e mail. Open your window up in Philly and hear the screaming voice " You were missed!!!".

    I am going "awwwhhh" looking at young Ronnie in your pic! So cute!!

    Well, you have had some hectic days and nights. And, I am so glad to hear that there were less "turkeys" come through your part of the store. Great; jolly and spending customers are your type of customers. Get 'em rollin', Ronnie!

    I had be sooo happy to hear that you had met Frankie. If he is reading, bless you! We would all need to take your crash course in "overcoming self-limitations". Happy holidays, Frankie!

    Great early Xmas gift, that computer. Enjoy your new toy!!

    I count my blessings each time that we email, visit each other's blogs or just are there,being a friend for each other. And, everyone here loves you: you are blessed with love and friendship.

    Be strong to finish off the last week of the Xmas shopping season!

    (((((((((( Ronnie))))))))))

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  37. Bonjour Barb~

    *waving from Philly*

    "I am tickled pink to see this post and to have talked to ya today on e mail. Open your window up in Philly and hear the screaming voice " You were missed!!!"."

    Aw...thanks. You're missed too! I can't wait until this week is over so I can get back to blogging and visiting everyone.

    Yes, (outside of the loooong hours) this year has been a joy to wait on such JOLLY and HAPPY customers. I can't get over how patient the customers are at standing in long lines at the cash register. No one is bitching or complaining. THANK GOD!

    "I had be sooo happy to hear that you had met Frankie. If he is reading, bless you! We would all need to take your crash course in "overcoming self-limitations". Happy holidays, Frankie!"

    I can't WAIT to share our interview. You guys and gals are gonna really enjoy it because Frankie is so frank and upfront about his story and what he has gone through. He's truly an inspiration.

    Yup, I'm soooo enjoying my new computer. I had a bit of a road block when trying to purchase the one I had originally wanted because every time I went online or visited Staples, they were OUT OF STOCK. However, I got an even better one!

    Thanks so much for stopping by today and for your sweet words. Yes, I AM blessed with love and friendship, which includes YOU!

    ((((( Barb )))))

    Wishing you and Didier a VERY Merry Christmas!

    Talk to ya soon!

    XOXO

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  38. Hooray for the update!

    And congrats on meeting Frankie, getting a NEW computer, and meeting Dianne!

    All wonderful things.

    Merry Christmas, my friend.

    I *heart* that photo of you.

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  39. Hi Ron,
    It's been ages but I think of you often and wanted to wish you Happy Holiday season. The year just whizzed by didn't it? I say that every year!
    Hope all is well on your end of town.
    Sending lots of love your way.
    A bientôt,
    BB

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  40. Ron,
    What a wonderful Post. This comment will not contain the usual joke or pun. It will have a heartful sense of Gratitude and Christmas Joy. May the spirit of this wonderful season fill you and continue with each day of the upcoming year. My friend you have given us so many moments of thought and of enjoyment. You are the present to us. I know we have been with each other in a previous life. You are like an appdenage to my spirit. I wish you the Merriest of Christmases and love life and laughter in the New Year. Your Libra Buddy Dave

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  41. Ron, I’m so happy you had the opportunity to meet your Frankie and I’m really looking forward to your interview when we can all meet him too! I was so touched by that blog post so I know your interview with him will be a very heart-warming one as well!

    I’m glad your Christmas customers have been behaving themselves. I’ve noticed that people seem to be a bit happier this year. Maybe there’s something in the air --let’s hope it stays well after the Holidays are over!

    You look absolutely adorable in your little PJ’s and Bullwinkle roller-skates! If you were any cuter, you’d be a button!

    “Thank you for making this year a very special one by sharing your lives with me. You make my life richer in knowing you.”

    I will say you’re welcome and I want to say thank you as well. You’ve made MY life richer too. I really look forward to your blog posts because they are entertaining as well as enlightening.

    My mom has always said that we make time for what’s important and you always find the time to comment over at my blog and that really means a lot to me. It says a lot about you as a person and I’m honored to know you (even though one day I hope WE can actually meet in person!).

    Merry Christmas, my friend!

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  42. Dear Ron,

    First of all, I am glad to read an update and see that you are still alive even if under extreme workload! Remember to treat yourself to something special after your long days.

    Secondly, I thought you might enjoy reading this post.
    http://katzandthecity.blogspot.com/2011/12/dinner-in-philly.html
    It is a fellow Finn blogging from NYC. I got to meet her when I was in the Big Apple last year. A sweet and stylish gal. She came to your city!

    Lastly, do have a sweet and calm Christmas... after all the hard-working I thought calm would be what you'd like, maybe I am wrong;)
    You are so special in my blogger life!!!!!

    Love,

    Susa

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  43. OH I love the photo! And can I tell you that I put old photos on our tree this year!! I recently purchased a few new things for our tree and one of them were teal colored balls with a little metal spiral at the bottom to attach a photo. I have only 4 of them right now but if they have them on sale after Christmas I might get more for next year.
    I'm glad you are doing well at work, busy but not crazy!! And how wonderful that you got to meet both Frankie and Dianne! That's awesome. I can't wait to read more about him.
    It has been sooooo busy here with fixing up the kitchen and getting ready for all the holiday celebrations and the shopping, wrapping, etc. Can't believe the end of another year is almost here.
    I'm very glad to have gotten to visit with you here and read all the assorted posts and am thankful for you stopping by and visiting me too. Your comments are always so warm and friendly. Love that!!
    Thanks for the Merry wishes and *raising a glass of red wine to you* I send them good wishes right back. Enjoy the rest of the season, my friend!
    {{{HUGS}}}

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  44. Hey there Meleah~

    Aw...thank you, my Libra friend! It's been SUCH a busy and insane month for me, but I wanted to post one more time before Christmas to wish you guys and gals a GREAT one!

    So looking forward to sharing my interview with Frankie. I think you'll really enjoy meeting him as much as I did. He's such a COOL guy!

    Merry Christmas to you and your family!

    (((( You ))))

    And thank you for being in my life!

    Talk to ya soon!

    XOXO

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  45. Greetings Brigitte!

    It's soooooooooooooooooo wonderful to see you!!!! Thanks SO MUCH for stopping by!

    "The year just whizzed by didn't it? I say that every year!"

    Yes is has. And I say the same thing every year too. It must be an 'age thing', but the older I get the faster time flies!

    Hope all is well and that you're singing your heart out!

    HAPPY HOLIDAY, my friend! Wishing you and your family the best year ever!

    (((( Brigitte )))))

    X and hugs to you!

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  46. Howdy Mr. Dave~

    So FAB to see ya, buddy!

    And I can't thank you enough for your thoughtful, sweet, and kind comment.

    "I know we have been with each other in a previous life. You are like an appdenage to my spirit."

    I agree! In fact, I KNOW we have been with each other in a previous life. And I'm honored and happy to be in THIS lifetime with you as well!

    Thank you for your unending friendship of loyalty, support, inspiration, humor, and love.

    You're the BEST!

    Wishing you and your family the Merriest of Christmases and love, life, and laughter in the New Year! I look forward to sharing 2012 with you!

    Thanks SO MUCH for stopping by, my Libra friend! You made my day!

    Talk to ya soon!

    X

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  47. Bonjour Susu~

    Aw...thanks, my friend! Your comment was like a healing and calming salve after a loooong and tiring day at work. I can't wait until next week, so I can get back to my regular posting schedule and start visiting all you guys; catching up with your lives.

    Thank you for sharing the link. And yes, I will definitely check it out within the next few days. She sounds like a very cool lady! And she's from my favorite city....NY!

    Thanks so much for stopping by and for your sweet words!

    And please know what a special gift it's been in meeting you through our blogs. You're an angel! And I'm so looking forward to your new blog and all that have to offer us.

    "You are so special in my blogger life!!!!!"

    Ditto, my friend!

    Merry Christmas to you and hubby! And please tell your mom I said Hi!

    (((( Susu )))))

    Talk to ya soon!

    X

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  48. Greetings Pamela~

    Thank you SO MUCH for your comment, my friend. It really touched me. It actually brought tears to my eyes. You're such a sweetheart!

    (((( Pamela )))))

    Yes, I am SO looking forward to sharing my interview with Frankie. Meeting him last week was such a highlight for me this year. I've seen him in my store for YEARS, but never had the opportunity to actually talk with him. However, I have always 'sensed' that he was a special human being. And I was right. I know you guys are gonna love meeting him and hearing his story.

    Please know how much I have enjoyed meeting you this past year. You're a WONDERFUL writer! Your posts contain all the things I love - brilliant wit, sarcasm, and direct honesty!

    You da' BOMB, girl!

    I so look forward to sharing our lives in 2012!

    Can't wait to get back to my normal posting schedule and catching up with you and everyone else next week. Thank you for patience and understanding during this extremely busy time for me.

    Wishing you, your husband, and sons a very MERRY CHRISTMAS!

    Talk to ya soon!

    X

    P.S. and yes, I have a feeling we will meet one day soon in person!

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  49. Hiya Mary~

    Aw...thank you. Seeing that old photo again brought back so many wonderful memories of Christmas time in my family!

    "And can I tell you that I put old photos on our tree this year!! "

    OMG....what a GREAT and ORIGINAL idea!!!!! And I bet they look so cool!

    Yes, work has been amazingly enjoyable this year. Outside of working a TON of hours (and my boss actually gave me MORE hours today) and being extremely tired, it's been a pleasure to wait on customers this year. I'm hoping that the next four days goes as well.

    Can you believe Christmas is in FOUR days?!?!??!

    Meeting both Frankie and Dianne this month has truly been a great highlight for me this year. BOTH are AWESOME people! I know you guys are gonna love meeting Frankie and hearing what he has to share. And meeting Dianne was such a HOOT! She's everything and MORE that I imagined. We spent the day talking up a storm, like old friends.

    "It has been sooooo busy here with fixing up the kitchen and getting ready for all the holiday celebrations and the shopping, wrapping, etc.'

    Hope all is going well with you kitchen makeover. I can't WAIT to see your photos of the finale!

    Thank you for stopping by, my friend, and for your sweet words. Just know how happy I am to have met you through our blogs. You're an AMAZINGLY talented lady, who I admire!

    Looking forward to sharing 2012 with you!

    And hopefully one day we will meet for coffee in Philly; catching up like old friends!

    MERRY CHRISTMAS to you and your family!

    Talk to ya soon!

    (((( Mary ))))

    X

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  50. cute pie, couldn't be more adorable :)

    Hi Ron & I've missed reading your blog during this shopping season. Your wit and photos and candid observations truly enrich my life and it's a gift you share year-round. Thank you.

    Looking forward to your upcoming interview - what a fabulous idea to introduce inspiring everyday people in such a novel way.

    Thank you again for the many gifts you share, I appreciate you so very much! Sending love and merry Christmas wishes xoxo diane & cristy

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  51. Oh you look so cute sitting at your little piano :)

    I'm glad you're not getting too stressed out with work - and a new computer too! I trust you will have a lovely Christmas now :)

    You met Frankie! That will be a very interesting post. Not that your posts aren't ALWAYS interesting ha ha!

    Have a wonderful holiday xxx

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  52. Hey there Diane~

    Thank you so much for your sweet and supportive words, my friend.

    And ditto to YOU! Honestly, you've inspired me SO MUCH with your amazing talent for taking something and then transforming it into ART and BEAUTY! You're sense of creativity is freaking AWESOME!

    Yes, I am soooo looking forward to sharing Frankie's voice on my blog next month. I know you guys are gonna enjoy meeting him as much as I did. He's such an inspiration!

    Thanks a bunch for stopping by, Diane! Your comment was so nice to read after a long-ass day at work. Can't wait to catch up with you after Christmas!

    Wishing you and Cristybella a beautiful Merry Christmas!

    Much X to you both!

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  53. Hiya Babs~

    Aw...thanks, my friend.

    Yes, work has been very enjoyable this year. I'm exhausted, but it's a GOOD exhausted. However, I can't wait until my life returns to it's normal schedule so I can get back to blogging. I've missed being able to visit you guys everyday.

    I know you guys are gonna REALLY enjoy hearing Frankie's interview next month. He's as equally as excited as I am!

    Thanks so much for stopping by, Babs! You're a sweetheart!

    Wishing you and Mo a VERY Merry Christmas!

    Talk to you soon!

    Much X!

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  54. Wishing you the merriest of Christmas's, dear Ron....have a wonderful holiday...i look forward to your return! xoxo

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  55. Good evening Linda~

    Thank you so much for stopping by and for your Merry Christmas wishes!

    Same to YOU, dear friend!

    I just got home from work and all I want to do is crash after such a loooong week. I am SO looking forward to a nice peaceful day off tomorrow - Yipppppppppppeeee!

    Wishing you and your family a VERY Merry Christmas, and I look forward to getting back to blogging next week. I've really missed everyone.

    Sending ya a BIG hug.....

    ((((( Linda )))))

    xoxoxox

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  56. ...It is Christmas Eve and I am getting ready to turn in for the evening but I just wanted to stop in and wish you a very Merry Christmas my friend!

    ...(((you)))

    ...Blessings :o)

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  57. Good morning TJ~

    Aw....you're a sweetheart!

    Bless you, dear friend!

    Thank you for stopping by.

    Wishing you a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!!!

    Have a beautiful day!

    (((( You )))))

    XOXO

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  58. Frankie sounds like a wonderful man! I don't think I could ever escape a few (or more than a few) 'why me' moments if the same thing happened to me, though I do try to be philosophical about things I can't change. And to smile and be genuinely happy .. that's a real gift. I'm so glad you met him and he didn't disappoint. How could he? Probably doesn't know how. ;)

    Love the pic of you with the piano. What a shame you didn't follow that particular career path - I'D have come to see you!

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  59. Hey Jay~

    Yes, he IS a wonderful man!

    " I don't think I could ever escape a few (or more than a few) 'why me' moments if the same thing happened to me, though I do try to be philosophical about things I can't change. And to smile and be genuinely happy .. that's a real gift."

    I agree. I don't think I could escape more than a few 'why me' moments if the same thing happened to me either. That's what amazes me about Frankie - he took what happened to him and turned it around into something positive.

    I can't wait for him to share his story on my blog post next month. I know you guys are gonna be in AWE of his positive outlook on life.

    "Love the pic of you with the piano. What a shame you didn't follow that particular career path - I'D have come to see you!"

    Aw.....thank you. But who knows, I just might return to the stage - if I can ever find those skates - HA!

    Thanks for stopping by, Jay! Enjoy your week, my friend!

    X

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  60. eeek, i'm so behind. i hate when i miss things from my blogging buddies, it has been insane at work for me, so i know how you feel.

    i always love when bloggers get a chance to meet other bloggers. most of my blogging buddies are friends in my head even though we've never met, i feel like i know most of them like we have. i hope to get to meet you soon.

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  61. Hey ladyV~

    "eeek, i'm so behind. i hate when i miss things from my blogging buddies, it has been insane at work for me, so i know how you feel."

    No problem, my friend. I TOTALLY understand. And you're such a sweetheart for reading and commenting on my past posts!

    "i always love when bloggers get a chance to meet other bloggers. most of my blogging buddies are friends in my head even though we've never met, i feel like i know most of them like we have. i hope to get to meet you soon."

    Me too. And everyone I've ever met in person, ended up being even more wonderful than I imagined.

    As I know you will be too!

    Let's try to meet up this year, okay?

    X

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