Usually, something dramatic must happen to change this apathy and pull one out of a rut. Perhaps it's something shocking, like a death, a divorce, sudden illness, an accident -- something stunning to force taking notice. Then comes guilt, re-assessment of feelings, sadness of loss. And worst of all -- knowing how unnecessary and perhaps preventable situation could have been.

We long to have those precious moments once again, to share and express our feelings. Instead of waiting for an excuse, why not get out of rut, take initiative, and spend quality time with people you value. Let then know how really important they are.

March is 100th anniversary of Theodor Seuss Geisel's (Dr. Seuss) birthday. Celebrate by reading your favorite Dr. Seuss books with your family. Do you like green eggs and ham?

Project: Forcing Spring Bulbs

Bring a bit of Nature indoors. You can force hyacinth, paper whites, crocus, and tulip bulbs to bloom by placing them in a shallow bowl filled with gravel.

1. Bury bottom half of bulb in gravel.

2. Add just enough water to cover stones.

3. Place bowl in a cool dark place for three weeks.

4. When green shoots emerge, move bowl to a sunny window. Soon fragrant blooms will appear.

Recipe: Leprechaun Limeade

Ingredients: 2 Cups Water 1 Cup Sugar 10-20 Mint leaves ½ Cup Lime Juice (3-5 limes) 4 Cups Cold Water 1 Drop Green Food Coloring (optional)

Directions: 1. Combine first 3 ingredients. Boil for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. (This can be done on stovetop or in microwave).

2. Remove from heat. Once mixture has cooled, remove mint leaves from sugar syrup.

3. In a 2-quart pitcher, combine syrup, lime juice, and 4 cups of cold water. Add food coloring, if desired. Serve over ice. Just for fun, garnish with shamrocks.

About Authors: Rondi Hillstrom Davis and Janell Sewall Oakes are co-authors of award-winning book Together: Creating Family Traditions. To check out their website that's jam packed with family ideas, visit To subscribe to their online newsletter, go to