Quote of the night: “No matter where you’re from, your dreams are valid” — Lupita Nyong’o Host Ellen Degeneres:I thought she did an excellent job, although her monologue was a little bit edgier than we’ve seen her before–it seemed like a few of the celebs were surprised by the way she took jabs at them. They’reRead more about Random Thoughts on Oscars 2014[…]

I have always warned people: DO NOT GIVE ME PLANTS, I KILL EVERYTHING. And no one believes me, so now, here’s the proof.  THIS is the fate that awaits greenery unlucky enough to find its way into my care.  I CAN KILL BAMBOO. Go ahead and do a search on these beauties. You’ll find allRead more about My Legendary Black Thumb[…]

There’s a new Frontline documentary that is a must-see for parents of teens: Generation Like.  Created by the same filmmaker who produced “The Merchants of Cool,” this latest film is a fascinating report on the power of social media, and how this new generation invests so much of their self-worth on the affirmation they receive fromRead more about The Power of the “Like” button[…]

Tony, TonyLook around!Something’s lostAnd can’t be found! Works. Every. Time. If you’d prefer a more traditional prayer, you could try this Novena to St. Anthony: St. Anthony, perfect imitator of Jesus, who received from God the special power of restoring lost things, grant that I may find [name of item] which has been lost. AtRead more about Lost Something?[…]

Watching House Hunters International on HGTV: a young, unmarried couple in a long-distance relationship decides to move to Uruguay and live together for the first time. They’ve never lived on the same continent before, never been to South America, and neither one speaks Spanish.  They can’t agree on their budget, their basic wish list forRead more about Keeping my fingers crossed for you two crazy kids, but…[…]

I’m proud to say that another bill I worked on has been signed into law by Governor Christie! A-266 aims to protect firefighters who are called upon to battle fires on buildings that have photovoltaic (solar panel) systems.  The new law requires that basic information relating to solar panel installations be filed with local fireRead more about Solar Panel Safety Bill Signed Into Law[…]

Pope Francis asserts that to have a true dialogue means keeping an open mind, and acknowledging that the other person’s perspective–even if vastly different from your own–has value and is worthwhile. He also compared modern-day digital communications to “a fine wine which gladdens the heart.”  I love this guy!

Dusty’s Law–a bill that will help protect service dogs and their handlers–was signed this morning by Governor Christie. I am so proud to have been a part of the effort to bring this bill to fruition. Read more about Dusty’s Law HERE. 

A photo purporting to be a slab of frozen McRib “meat” is taking the internet by storm. The popular seasonal offering from McDonald’s is usually seen in its fully-prepared state, slathered with barbeque sauce, onions and pickles on a hoagie roll.  That image bears very little resemblance to the industrialized-looking, pale white hunk of frozenRead more about McRib vs. real Ribs…seeing is believing[…]

To all who have served or are currently serving our country: THANK YOU. This is a photo of my father from 1950, after he enlisted in the Navy. He was 18 years old, and was proud to serve his country. I miss him every day.