To make special occasions enjoyable for children,

1. keep celebrations simple and short;

2. plan child-centered, child-paced activities;

3. keep preparations simple;

4. begin preparations no earlier than one or two days before event or holiday;

5. involve children in every aspect of preparations;

6. keep agenda flexible.

New or unusual situations, unknown people, a larger number of people than a child is accustomed to, or new requirements even in a familiar place are all stressful for young children. The most successful events are those that include many familiar features.

We are a changed nation -- a changed world. I am a changed person.

We are reaching out to strangers when we may not have before. We cry for those we do not know because we share common bond of being Americans. Yes, we are also fearful. But, through thick fog of fear we are lighting a candle within ourselves. The candle of hope -- and it's shining brightly for entire world to see.

We are sharing in our faith like we never have before. It matters not what denomination we are -- what matters is that we are holding tight to belief that God will get us through this and I see it every day. In candle light vigils. On television. On cars driving down street with flags blowing proudly in wind. In public places where people are gathering to pray, unashamed of their faith and eager to display it. In store windows where there are signs that simply say, "Pray."

"God bless America. Land that I love. Stand beside Her, and guide Her." That song now has meaning to me, where before it was simply a song.

In depths of my heart I know what it feels like to be an American and I do love this country and its people with all my heart. I ask God to bless us all, to bless world, to protect everyone from acts of terror and destruction, and to once again bless America. © Ellen M. DuBois