26 minute read
Dis ney s Moana JR
Disney’s Moana JR. Live on Stage in Sugar Land
Moana (Sugar Land resident Alondra Loya, 13-year-old 8th grader at Garcia Middle School) and Maui (Jarring Sanders, a 17-year old junior at Bush High School).
Inspiration Stage is excited to announce its production of Disney’s Moana JR. at the Sugar Land Auditorium with eight shows over two weekends, from March 27th through April 5th.
Disney’s Moana JR. is an adaptation of the 2016 Disney animated film, bringing the adventures of Moana and her village of Motunui to life onstage. Moana JR. features all the beloved songs from the film, written by Tony ® , GRAMMY, Emmy and Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Lin-Manuel Miranda, Opetaia Foa’i and Mark Mancina, including How Far I’ll Go, Shiny and You’re Welcome. This junior adaptation of Moana was recently made available for theatres to license for production.
“It’s such an honor to be one of the first theatre companies in the greater Houston area to produce this touching and beloved show,” said Mandy Seymore-Sensat, Inspiration Stage’s artistic director and the director/choreographer for Moana JR. “It promises to be a show full of spectacle and heart, with amazing music and stunning displays of beauty. It will be a new favorite for audiences young and old.”
Visit https://inspirationstage.com/shows/ for more information or for tickets.
For the perfect wine tastings/dinners in all price ranges, the perfect highend wine visits to Napa and Sonoma, and the perfect wine visits to Texas Hill Country, call Denman Moody 713.202.5229 theadvancedoenophile.com
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Oenophile
By Denman Moody
Much has transpired since I visited and wrote an article about Lodi and its wines in 2010. For one thing, my favorite Lodi winery, Michael David, sold its 7 Deadly Zins and a couple other lines to focus on its more upscale wines. In a way, this resembles Sutter Home selling its White Zinfandel line many years ago to focus upwards also, and while at it, changed its name to Trinchero Family Estates. I am still a fan of all the Michael David wines – great values at around $20 to $55.
Situated in the north part of the San Joaquin Valley about an hour and a half east of Napa, many believe that Lodi is too hot to produce premium wines. Not true, at least for a large portion of Lodi, because cool Pacific winds blow through the Carquinez Straits – a gap in the coastal mountain range – all the way through to Lodi.
Another matter of interest is that because of the mass purchases of grapes for the late White Zinfandel boom created by Sutter Home and Robert Mondavi Woodbridge, almost
Lodi
all of the ancient vines were not ripped out and replaced, and today they produce marvelous wines with depth and character. Today in Lodi, there are around 75 families farming grapes – mostly fourth and fifth generation – and some 85 wineries. In fact, the Phillips family, Michael and David, have been farming in Lodi for six generations. Originally, watermelon and wheat were the staples, and at one time grapes abounded but were not suited for successful winemaking.
Around 1990, Zinfandel, Carignan, Grenache and Cinsault were planted. The Bechthol Vineyard was planted with Cinsault in 1885 and is considered to be one of the two or three oldest and largest Cinsault vineyards in the world.
On February 12th, I attended a masterful presentation by Elaine Chukan Brown on the history and current state of affairs in Lodi, including a tasting of some of its best wines. My favorites, one white and five reds, are all highly recommended:
Oak Farms Vineyards Albariño Mokelumne River 2018 This wine does not have the bright acidity of a typical Rias Baixas Albariño from northwest Spain, and actually reminds me more of a rich Loire Chenin Blanc. Lovely bouquet and fullflavored, this is a wine that can be enjoyed with or without food. $24
McCay Cellars Grenache Abba Vineyard 2016 Gorgeous red fruit flavors, aged 14 months in old French oak. I would like to try this very slightly chilled with chicken salad by the pool on a San Diego summer day. $35 Michael David Winery Ancient Vine Cinsault Bechthold Vineyard 2017 From a vineyard planted in 1885, this is one of my favorite wines in this price range featuring blue fruits, plums and excellent balancing acidity. Great character and astonishing preservation of this vineyard! $25
Fields Family Wines Old Vine Zinfandel Stampede Vineyard 2016 Planted in the ‘20s and ‘40s, another oldie but goodie aged 18 months in old French oak. “Purply and crunchy berry” with a lovely finish. $28 St. Amant Winery Old Vine Zinfandel Marian’s Vineyard 2018 Planted in 1901 and aged 11 months in French oak (15% new) a real eye-opener. Unbelievable that vines this old can produce great wine. Blackberries and spice; rich and rewarding. $24
Mountain Tides Wine Company Petite Sirah Clements Hills 2017 Not a big, rich Petite Sirah, but shows reserved charm, lovely aromatics and tender tannins. $25
2020 FORD ESCAPE & EXPLORER
The Ford Motor Company just introduced two new models that will reenergize their SUV/crossover lineup: the 2020 Explorer and the 2020 Escape. Both vehicles are completely all-new and a giant step up from their respective 2019 models. Both are better looking, better driving and have way better interiors. If you only need only two rows, choose the Escape. Got to have three rows, then pick Explorer.
The 2020 Escape is offered with four different powertrains, so there’s one that fits the way you drive. The base Escape, with a MSRP of $24,885, has an all-new 180 hp, 1.5 liter threecylinder EcoBoost engine that gets 27 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. If you opt for a higher trim, you’ll get a 250 hp, 2.0 liter four-cylinder EcoBoost engine that delivers more fun but slightly poor fuel economy. There’s also a gasoline/ electric hybrid with great gas economy ratings of 44 mpg city and 37 mpg highway. If you have a short daily commute, the plug-in hybrid should be a consideration with a 30 mile range in all-electric mode. All the above mentioned models are available in AWD configuration.
The 2020 Explorer has three powertrains available. The base Explorer, with an MSRP of $32,765, has a 300 hp, 2.3 liter four
2020 Ford Explorer interior. 2020 Ford Escape.
cylinder EcoBoost engine that’s surprisingly peppy and gets fuel economy numbers of 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. The next step up in power is the 365 hp, 3.0 liter sixcylinder EcoBoost engine that delivers 24 mpg city and 18 mpg highway. The Explorer ST has the same 3.0 engine under the hood, but it’s tuned to put out 400 hp making it the most fun of the crossover models to drive. There’s also a gasoline/electric hybrid available but there is no plug-in version.
Both the Escape and the Explorer have new interiors that are stunning, especially the new tablet-style infotainment screens that sit high on the dashboard. And both vehicles offer all the newest safety technologies with Ford Co-Pilot360. This is a suite of standard driver-assist technologies that includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot information system, lane keeping system, rear backup camera and auto high beam lighting. There’s also a selectable drive mode system making it safer to navigate difficult driving situations.
Whether you need two rows or three, there’s a new Ford crossover that may work for you.
TM
2020 Bucket List: Next up – London 2020 Bucket List: Next up – London
London city commuters walking by Westminster Big Ben.
APRIL 2020 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.fortbendfocus.com 40 L ondon is a place that everyone should see at least once in their life. It is the most visited city in Europe and offers too many attractions to cover here, so here are some highlights. The best time to visit is April through June or September through November. Traveling around the city is pretty easy and purchasing an Oyster card once there will allow visitors to take public transportation to each of the different districts. The city is an old one, in fact prehistoric, and as such, it has a layout that is organized and therefore easy to navigate. There are North, South, West and East London Districts with each offering their own set of unique experiences.
The North District offers The British Museum, historic houses and shopping in the Mayfair at some of the best stores there. The East has art galleries and museums. The South runs beside the famous Thames River where visitors can take a cruise and leisurely take in the sites and sounds of the city. The West, Noting Hill and surrounding neighborhoods offer a taste of what it’s like to live as a Londoner.
Make sure on your list of places to see and do are Hyde Park, Westminster and Big Ben. In Camden for visitors in the market for a new tat, this is the place to certainly find it as it’s chock full of sub-culture shops and artists. Take a ride on the London Eye and see the city from a new perspective. In Soho, visitors will find by day a lovely, whimsical atmosphere of bakeries and delis sprinkled amoungst bars and shops, and by night, the red light comes to life with sex shops and speciality bars that cater to every decadence. In Hampstead Heath, visitors can pack a picnic and enjoy an afternoon in the sun reading Shakespeare or poetry, and if they’re inclined to appreciate art, the Kenwood House has an art collection not to be missed. The Savoy entrance on the Strand. Buckingham Palace. For those who enjoy photography, climb to the top of the O2 Arena and capture stunning panoramic views of the city where each attraction like the London Eye and House of Parliament and others can be captured. For shopping, Oxford Street is an absolute must with over 300 stores, including the famous House of Fraser. Visitors will absolutely want to go to Harrods, circa 1824, the famous department store that has been serving up luxury to royalty and those who want to feel like they are with themed floors and fancy foods for centuries. Places to stay in London range from simple bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels. Travelers can find accommodations to match any budget. Two hotels hat stand out are the Hotel 41, located in Westminster, and The Savoy, located on The Strand. Hotel 41 overlooks Buckingham Palace and offers a unique “Plunder the Pantry” service with anytime snacks and treats. The hotel has been awarded Forbes 5 Star rating with it’s 30 rooms and suites, and there guests will be treated like royalty in an intimate setting. The Savoy, a Fairmontmanaged hotel, is an Art Deco lover’s dream, with its well-appointed accommodations of 268 suites and rooms with vistas offering panoramic views of London. For it’s sophistication and charming hospitality, the hotel has been awarded into the prestigious T+L’s “Top 500.”
London made it to the 2020 Bucket List because of it’s historical importance, distinctive charm and ability to offer experiences that are for everyone. Museums, shopping, great food coupled with unique attractions, a rich culture and history make it a must see.
The men and women of the Sugar Land Police Department leave their families every day and risk their lives to protect us. As a result of their efforts, in 2018 SecurityChoice.com placed Sugar Land in the Top 50 of the Safest Cities to Retire in America. While the officers of the Sugar Land Police Department are protecting us, what can we do to ensure their safety?
On April 16th Smart Financial will present the third Back the Blue fundraiser in support of the Sugar Land Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association (SLCPAAA). The SLCPAAA is a 501(c)(3), fully volunteer organization that funds crime prevention programs, purchases much needed law enforcement equipment and engages in volunteer activities that assist the Sugar Land Police Department efforts. Event Co-Chairs Amy and Gary Becker and KK and Scott West continue to support the efforts of SLCPAAA. This event will raise funds to purchase life-saving equipment. tactical vests, SWAT entry equipment, police utility vehicles and other equipment that greatly increases the chances of officer survival when faced with an attack. Additionally, funds will be used to purchase new crime fighting technology and training equipment that will support the Sugar Land Police Department’s continued efforts to make Sugar Land safer than ever before.
Back The Blue Event
Event Co-Chairs Scott and KK West with Amy and Gary Becker.
Sugar Land Police Chief Robins said, “We are so grateful to our community and would not be as successful as we are without our citizens and community partners.”
Gary Becker, of Smart Financial Centre, promised, “Back the Blue will be like no event you’ve ever seen. Prior to dinner in the lobby, guests can interact with members of the Sugar Land Police Department, test their skills in simulated interactions, see hi-tech CSI investigative techniques and learn more about public safety. After dinner, the evening will become epic. The event will go above and beyond with the most inspirational party band in the country – The Big Beyond. The Smart Financial Centre stage has state-of-the-art audio and lighting. The acoustics are phenomenal. New this year, we’ve incorporated a pre-cocktail hour, exclusively for our VIP sponsors, and we will be raffling a Harley Davidson motorcycle. This is an event you won’t want to miss.”
According to Captain Chris Thompson, all a police officer really wants to know is that the community they serve appreciates what they do. “Our officers feel that appreciation every day in Sugar Land. They really enjoy their jobs. They come to work happy. They come to work ready to serve.”
Be a part of this year’s Back the Blue fundraiser on April 16th and show your support for those who protect and serve our community. Smart Financial has graciously returned as presenting sponsor. Many sponsorships have sold out and tables are limited, so don’t wait!
For more information, contact Ingrid Gunn-Otero at 281-207-9580 or BACKTHEBLUE@SmartFinancialCentre. net. Smart Financial Centre is located at 18111 Lexington Boulevard in Sugar Land.
Car Wash for Kids Set for April 5th
On April 5th, area teens will converge on C and C Dental in Sugar Land for the 9th Annual Car Wash for Kids. The event, hosted by the Hope For Three Teen Huddle, will be held from 10 am to 2 pm. The Eco-Friendly Car Wash is free, but donations are welcome.
Sugar Land Baptist Church, a returning supporter of the teen huddle program, will match all donations up to $3,500. Car Wash for Kids is one of several events hosted by Hope For Three during April Autism Awareness Month. It is also part of the organization’s “It’s Cool to Care” Campaign, an effort to educate, empower and enable youth to make a positive contribution to the lives of other young people with unique differences – Autism.
For more information on Car Wash for Kids, how to sign up as an event volunteer or sponsorship opportunities, visit hopeforthree.org/events.
A M A T E U R P H O T O C O N T E S T
April 2020 Winner
“Summer Hummingbird” By Katelynn Connell
Congratulations you’ve earned a gift certificate!
ENTER TO WIN Fort Bend Focus Magazine is looking for great amateur photos. Any subject matter will be considered, black and white or color, special effects and/or edited are not necessary. The entry must not have previously appeared in any publication.
A WINNER EVERY MONTH Each month’s winner receives a gift certificate and the winning photo will be published in our magazine. To claim your prize, e-mail grace@absolutelyfocusmedia.com or call 281-690-4242.
NO LIMIT TO ENTRIES To submit a digital photo, e-mail the jpeg file to Grace@ absolutelyfocusmedia.com. Digital photos must be 300 dpi HIGH RESOLUTION at size of at least 10” wide. Please make sure to send some basic information about every photo you submit such as: who, where, when, a title, your name and phone number.
By submitting an entry, the photographer gives Fort Bend Focus Magazine the right to use and publish their photograph. There is no contest deadline.
Create a Sweet Easter Treat
This Easter, satisfy guests of all ages with festive cupcakes modeled after the Easter bunny. For more Easter recipes, visit Culinary.net.
Recipe courtesy of Amanda Rettke of “I am baker” Prep time: 45 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes Servings: 24
1 2-Layer Size White Cake Mix 1 Tablespoon, plus 2 Teaspoons, Mccormick Pure Lemon Extract, divided 1 Tablespoon Mccormick Pure Vanilla Extract 3/4 Cup White Chocolate Chips 2 Sticks Butter, softened 16 Ounces Confectioners’ Sugar 2 Tablespoons Milk 10 Drops Mccormick Green Food Color 1-2 Drops Mccormick Red Food Color 12 Large Marshmallows, halved crosswise 3 Tablespoons White Nonpareil Sprinkles
Source: Family Features.
Bunny Butt Cupcakes
Prepare cake mix as directed on package, adding 1 tablespoon lemon extract and vanilla. Spoon 3 tablespoons batter into 24 paper-lined muffin cups. Bake as directed on package for cupcakes. Cool cupcakes on wire rack.
To make bunny feet: In medium, microwave-safe bowl, microwave white chocolate chips on high 30 seconds. Stir until completely melted and smooth. Spoon into pastry bag or re-sealable plastic bag. Snip small corner from bag. Pipe 24 pairs of bunny feet onto parchment or wax paper-lined cookie sheet. Use toothpick to smooth out bumps or rough edges, and gently tap cookie sheet on counter to help settle. Allow to harden 2 minutes in freezer or 15 minutes in refrigerator.
To make frosting: In large bowl, beat butter and remaining lemon extract until light and fluffy. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, beating well after each addition and scraping sides and bottom of bowl frequently. Add milk; beat until light and fluffy. Remove half the frosting and place in medium bowl. Add green food color; mix until evenly blended. Spoon into pastry bag fitted with grass decorating tip. Set aside. Remove half the remaining frosting into small bowl. Add red food color; mix until light pink. Spoon into another pastry bag.
Using pink frosting, pipe three toes and padding on each bunny foot. Once frosting has set (about 1 hour) gently press down on pink frosting to create smoother look.
To assemble cupcakes: Pipe green frosting onto each cupcake in series of short motions to create individual grass spots. Cover top of each cupcake completely.
To make bunny butts: Place cut sides of marshmallow halves onto each frosted cupcake, leaving room for bunny feet. Shape remaining white frosting into dime-sized balls then roll with white sprinkles to cover. Pipe small drop of remaining pink or white frosting onto top of each marshmallow. Press bunny tail on top.
Place both bunny feet against base of marshmallow with toes facing down.
Blushing Brides Coming June Attention Newlyweds!
Submit your info today and have your wedding details and photos published in print and online in our magazine.
If you or your children have recently married and you would like to enter for a chance to be featured in our Blushing Brides, all you need is at least twelve high-resolution photos of the ceremony and/or reception. It doesn’t matter where the wedding took place, as long as it was in the last year and you or your parent/s reside in Fort Bend area. Photographers are also welcome to submit photos.
Visit www.fortbendfocus.com
April 3rd, 6 – 8 pm Crazy Hare Edition Enjoy an evening of free family fun. The evening will have an open format and families can visit craft and game stations at their own leisure. Parent supervision is required. This event is happening at the Community Center, located at 1522 Texas Parkway in Missouri City. For more information, call 281-403-8637.
April 3rd, 7:30 – 9:30 pm Giving Spirits Concert Enjoy live music from the David DeLaGarza Band in the Plaza and learn more about the local nonprofit, Fort Bend Community Prevention Coalition. Activities include face painting, a photo booth and pedal karts that simulate driving while texting or under the influence. For more information, visit sugarlandtownsquare.com.
April 4th, 8 – 11:45 am Trash Off 2020 Gather friends, family and coworkers to help clean up Missouri City. Participants will collect trash from roadsides, parks and neighborhoods as a part of the largest single-day cleanup event in the state. Don’t Mess with Texas Trash-Off 2020 is hosted by Missouri City Green in partnership with Missouri City Parks and Recreation. Register at www.missouricitygreen.org.
April 4th, 7:45 – 9:45 pm Movie Under the Moon Enjoy a free Movie Under the Moon at Sugar Land Town Center. Bring your family, friends and lawn chairs to the Plaza to enjoy Aladdin. For more information, visit sugarlandtownsquare.com.
April 8th, 5:30 – 7:30 pm Sugar Land Jr. Superstar Auditions Sugar Land’s Jr. American Idol-like competition is kicking off another summer by showcasing local talent with open auditions. Contestants must be between 9 to 13 years old and residents of Fort Bend. All participants should be prepared to sing for 60 to 90 seconds without musical accompaniment, and auditions will take place in the lobby of 2277 Plaza Drive in Sugar Land. For more information, visit sugarlandtownsquare.com.
April 10th Good Friday
April 10th, 7 – 9 pm Magic in the Plaza Ted Schwank is pulling out all the stops! A popular magical variety show featuring magic, juggling, illusions, balancing, singing, dancing, special effects, games, face painting, comedy and much more. For more information, visit sugarlandtownsquare.com.
April 11th, 9 – 9:30 am Vettes for Vets The Corvette Owners Club of Houston is teaming up and taking Veterans out to Motor Sports Ranch for a day full of fun. This event serves as a bridge between the veteran and civilian community through the mutual love of fast cars. Town Square will be the send off site, so come out to cheer on the veterans as they head off to the race track. For more information, visit corvetteownersclubhouston.com.
April 11th, 7:30 – 9:30 pm Lyrics and Lawn Games Hang out in the Plaza and enjoy a big backyard party with family and friends. Enjoy lawn games plus live music from Danville Train, a popular classic rock and country band. Pack up your lawn chairs and head to the Plaza for a night of great tunes. For more information, visit sugarlandtownsquare.com.
April 12th Easter Sunday
April 16th, 5 – 7 pm Senior Bingo Night The Missouri City Parks and Recreation Department hosts senior bingo for area residents who are 50+. Visit with your peers, enjoy dinner and play friendly rounds of bingo for great prizes. Tickets are $5 and can be purchased at the door. This event is happening at Rec & Tennis Center, located at 2701 Cypress Point Dr. in Missouri City. For more information, 281-403-8637.
April 17th, 7:30 – 10 pm Friday Night Flicks Grab your friends, family, lawn chairs and picnic blankets for a Spring outdoor movie featuring Disney’s Up. There will be food vendors on site for and a nearby playground. This event is free and happening at the Community Park, located at 1700 Glenn Lakes Lane in Missouri City. For more information, call 281-403-8637.
April 18th, 12 – 4 pm Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Rock Earth Day Celebration Celebrate Earth Day! Entertainment includes the wildly entertaining Vocal Trash and the Texas Snakes and more. Also, enjoy interactive exhibits for the whole family. Take advantage of the drive-thru, free residential paper shredding in the parking lot of City Hall, located at 2700 Town Center Blvd N in Sugar Land. For more information, visit sugarlandtownsquare.com.
April 20th, All Day First Day of Early Voting In-Person
April 21st, 9:30 – 11:30 am Heirloom Gardening in the South The Sugar Land Garden Club welcomes all gardeners to enjoy the heartwarming stories told by award-winning horticulturist and author Greg Grant. Learn all about how to use yesterday’s plants for today’s gardens. Grant writes a popular column for Texas Gardener Magazine, and his work has been featured in many magazines and newspapers. Arrive early to get a seat for this well-known speaker at the club. For more information, visit sugarlandgardenclub.org.
April 24th, 7:45 – 10 pm Autism Speaks Movie Night Bring the whole family to enjoy a free, sensoryfriendly, community movie night in the Plaza. For more information, visit sugarlandtownsquare.com.
April 25th, 4:30 and 6:30 pm Houston Disc Dogs High Flyin’ Stunt Show Head to the Plaza for a high flyin’ stunt dog show. The dogs are geared up and ready to perform their best tricks and frisbee entertainment, including amazing jumps, dancing, vaults and more. For more information, visit sugarlandtownsquare.com.
We love to publish your upcoming non-profit events happening in Fort Bend. Email to grace@absolutelyfocusmedia.com
Events scheduled as of press time. Some events may have been canceled. Please confirm with all event hosts prior to attending.
Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land, located at 18111 Lexington Boulevard, features a dynamic entertainment roster of high profile performers throughout the month of April.
Prince Royce Alter Ego Tour Friday, April 3rd • 8 pm
The Millennium Tour Saturday, April 4th • 8 pm
Ana Gabriel Sunday, April 5th • 8 pm
Back The Blue Saturday, April 16th • 6 pm
Soda Stereo Gracias Totales Tour Wednesday, April 22nd • 8 pm
Kesha: The High Road Tour With Special Guest Big Freedia Thursday, April 23rd • 8 pm
Rain A Tribute To The Beatles Saturday, April 25th • 7:30 pm
Celtic Woman – Celebration 15th Anniversary Tour Sunday, April 26th • 3 pm
Living the Sweet Life:
By Alisa Murray www.AlisaMurray.com Nationally recognized portrait artist and award-winning columnist.
Aristotle’s 12 Virtues, the Fourth of Which is
Liberality
This year marks my 15th anniversary writing my column Living the Sweet Life. This year also marks my 50th birthday. As a way of reflection and remembrance, this year’s Sweet Life will be a continuous study of Aristotle’s 12 Virtues and how they are applied to my life.
According to encyclopedia.com, liberality is the virtue disposing a person to the observance of a reasonable mean between the opposite extremes of prodigality and stinginess in making expenditures intended for the benefit of others. What this means really is once you have acquired the financial means to support yourself, what will you do with extra money? Will you be like Ebenezer Scrooge in Charles Dicken’s A Christmas Carol and hoard every penny for yourself and save, save, save for a rainy day? Or, will you throw all of it away on presents for family and friends and things for yourself?
Everything we do when done in balance creates a state of peace. Read that again. Aristotle’s teachings of all of the virtues are meant to show us this. Having money is not good or bad. Having a lot of money or more than you need to tend to yourself and then not helping someone or wasting it is the problem. Balance. Too often we see people who are stingy and miserable, and we see others who have fortunes that they squander. Both result in a miserable, unfulfilled life.
Now, I’ll never pretend to be rich. I have had good years and bad years, and when my family has needed me to help them, and I could do so, I have. In thinking back over my life writing about the virtues this year, I have tried to remember the best of times these past 50 years and how the virtues have played out in my own life. I remembered a time many years ago when I threw a party for my Nana. She was turning 101 and had only one living sister. I decided that I would fly Nana with my sister and her children here, and I would Aunt Elaine and Nana.
also fly her sister and her nephew in for a little shindig. It was expensive to fly all those people here and to feed them, etc. Brian was not particularly thrilled with spending the money on this, but I insisted. I bought their tickets, and when the sisters reunited, I watched my grandmother and her only living sister sit and hold hands and giggle. They talked about when they were little and were giddy at getting the chance to see each other again. It had been years since they had seen each other. We planned meals and Nana wanted “rock fish” and chocolate cake, and I did my best to find and make everything exactly as she directed. The sisters were only together here for a few days, but in that time, they caught up, slept together each night as they had as little girls and really enjoyed time. It was the last time they ever would see each other. It was also the best money that I have ever spent.
Years have passed, and I as I recollect about liberality for this and how I have used my money for good over the years, it goes without saying that I have no regrets in having spent a sizable amount to give my grandmother that last birthday party and a chance to see and sit and love her sister that she had not seen in so long. I have never been a stingy person, and I have to say if you have money and you know some good that you can do with it that won’t harm your own needs in any way, it’s part of living fully to practice liberality and share. Money doesn’t buy happiness but knowing that I gave a gift that cannot be put into words by having the means to share it and provide that experience is one of the highlights of living my own sweet life.
Take care of you!
