IT'S THE SEASON TO START THINKING

Success comes to he who is willing to work hard, fight a good fight and sacrifice everything when necessary. (Brenda A. Ysaguirre)

As we near the end of another year we are faced with many new challenges. The economical situation at home and abroad dims the festive moment. If what the analysts are saying is true, we can look forward to a new year filled with more hardship as more people lose there jobs and many others graduate into a world that offers very little for them. Only the strong will survive. Only those who know the true meaning of sacrifice will succeed. Only the fearless will attain the satisfaction of a hard day's work for a well earned pay. I do not mean to dampen the eve of New Year's Eve. I only want to make sure we all understand that there will be a lot of hardship but that we can win the battle in the New Year if we use stamina and sacrifice. Good Luck to everyone and do have a Happy New Year. Go out or just stay at home and eat some grapes (12 actually to follow the Spanish tradition of one for each month of the year. You eat them just before midnight and our ancestors believed it would give you a good year.)

Have a Blessed New Year. Remember, we can make 2009 all it was meant to be if we work hard and sacrifice when necessary.

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

P.S. I promise to get back to writing poetry in 2009. I found my old book of poems so that will be a big help.

Bye for now! Get ready for midnight!!!

MERRY CHRISTMAS, EVERYONE

Finally the day is here. Today we celebrate the birth of our Lord, Jesus Christ. Millions across the earth rejoice in the coming of this day. Many will be in church, with family and friends or they will just relax at home to a quiet day.

In the past all my Christmas' were spent with my daughter, Carolyn and the past five years also with my grandaughter, Ciarra. This year due to unforeseen circumstances I have not travelled to the USA like I always do. As I write this blog, I am filled with thoughts of the child I brought into this world and the child she brought into this world. So much love and happiness they have brought me and today I am thousands of miles away from them. I can only say that while I will be with other loved ones, it is going to be hard to not remember last year and the years gone by and wonder if this year should have been this way. Unfortunately, it is beyond my control and I can only pray that it is all worth while - this sacrifice I make today. I will be calling them and across the miles I will be hearing that little voice that was so disappointed when she found out that her grandma Brenda was not coming this year.
Ciarra Alexander, my darling granddaughter, I love you and I always will. I am so sorry I cannot be with you this year for Christmas but I promise to try my best to be there in the coming year when I get a longer time off. You see this year we had a really bad time with the flooding in Belize and the school I work at had days off that had to be made up. So, I worked until yesterday and will have to work next week so that I can know if my students passed their classes and can move on to the next level in January. Anyway, the sacrifice will be all worth it if, and only if, the majority of my students pass their courses and can move on to the next level.
I know there is a reason for eveything in this world and so I am filled with the satifaction that they know I love them and that they know i will always be there for them even though I am miles alway.
At this time I would like to send my love to Carloyn and Ciarra. Darlings, you are my light and my happiness. I love you both and Miya, my son-in-law, I love you too. Sorry for changing your Christmas tradition but I will be there in the heart! Have a Blessed Christmas. We are alive and well. That is more than we could ask for. Trust in God and know that everything that happens in life is for a purpose. Like the love of my life always says and I quote: " We have so much to be thankful for. We are alive and millions of people did not wake up today. We have our health and many are sick. We love and are loved. Even when we are miles away, we are never apart. LOVE IS ALL WE NEED. "
Love Always,
Grandma Brenda/Mama

In the light of all this, I reach out to Abel for comfort and happiness. Thank you, dear friend for being there for me. I sometimes fall beyond your expectations but you pick me up and lead me on. My love for you grows with each dawn and heightens with each dusk. Whether we are together or apart on each given day, you add to my life knowledge, peace, joy and happiness that has grown with each passing day.
Abel, te amo, y siempre te voy a amar. Mi quierido Desestress, tu y solo tu has llegado a un nivel en mi vida que ningun otro ha logrado. Todo mis ayers son necesarios para que mis hoy sean realidad y para que mis mananas sean posibles. El amor que me das, y el amor que te doy son dos distinctos formas de ese amor profundo que nace cuando dos personas apoyan uno al otro. Gracias por ser parte de mi vida. Gracias por abrir mis ojos, para encenarme que la vida es diferente de lo que yo vivia. Mi amor, mi cielo, mi corazon. Hombre en blanco, hombre con tanto, hombre sabio, hombre de mi alma. Feliz Navidad. Mucho amor y mucho deseos. A tu lado estoy. A tu lado abri mis ojos hoy. A tu lado, quierido Abel, a tu lado. No te tengo que decir mas porque lo sabes todo. Te Amo. Paz, querido amigo. Eres el unico hombre que me ha llevado a la luna, y has hecho que toque las estrellas. Besos Especiales siempre.
Tu Chica de la Nueva Vida

A mis companerios de UNID. Felicidades a todos. Espero que nuestro amor y amistad sigue. Eres parte de mi gran familia. Disfruten cada minuto de cada dia como si fuera el ultimo. Vive hoy. No se preocupen por ayer. Ya no existe. (Pero si reprobaron, ayer si no lo vas a olvidar, verdad? jajaja) Viven hoy. Disfruten HOY. Haz de HOY una cancion, una lucha, una felicidad como que si manana no llegara. Y cuando llegue vas ser otro HOY asi que ya saben. LIVE IN THE NOW!!!!

A los profes: Eulises, Adrian, Veronica, Yasmini, Sra. Blanca y Daniela, muchas gracias por su ayuda con mi espanol, gracias por lo que nos encenaron y gracias por su amistad. Les mando un afectuoso abrazo en esta temporada. Feliz Navidad. Mucho amor, paz y esperanza.

Remember everyone: He is the reason for the season. El es la razon por la temporada.

Mucho Amor/Much Love,
Brenda

A CHRISTMAS WISH FROM ME TO YOU

Christmas is just around the bend,

And very soon the year will come to an end.

This year was one filled with many challenges,

But the love of family and friends had no changes.

I hope next year brings you much joy and happiness,

My gift to you is that I wish you all the best.

As life goes on its merry way,

I wish you much peace and joy every day.

Even if we only wrote a short note to each other throughout the year,

It was good to know that you were always internet near.

So as the season once again is here,

I just want to say MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Copyright Brenda A. Ysaguirre 2008

AFTER THE STORM- PLEASE HELP BELIZE

For the time being the rains have stopped and now we have a cold front over Belize. However, all is not over. Now is the time of recovery. The people in the areas that had the flooding ae still suffering. Many are still not in their homes and many have lost most of their personal properties.

NOW IS THE TIME WHEN WE HAVE TO GIVE A HELPING HAND.
PLEASE GIVE GENEROUSLY TO THE RELIEF ORGANIZERS WHO ARE GOING TO TAKE FOOD, MEDICINES AND CLOTHING ( AMONG OTHER THINGS) TO THOSE WHO NOW NEED OUR HELP.

In an effort to assist our brothers and sisters who have suffered so much in the past weeks, the YO PUEDO GROUP OF COROZAL and CCC ACE and CJC ACE have initiated a drive to collect non-persishable goods and clothing. THIS IS THE TIME WHEN WE NEED TO COME TOGETHER. LET US GIVE FROM THE HEART.

TO MY READERS ABROAD, YOU TOO CAN HELP. YOUR MONETARY DONATIONS CAN BE SENT TO THE RED CROSS OF BELIZE OR GET IN CONTACT WITH ME AT 501-607-8315 (3pm to 31am Belize time) OR AT 00521-983-131-5669 FROM 7AM TO 11AM (Mexico time).
Thank you and God Bless.

A POEM WRITTEN FOR MY CREATIVITY CLASS AT UNID

EL PENSAR DEL ESTUDIANTE

Oscura es la mañana,
Cuando me despierta,
Va ser un tiempo largo,
Y a ruto el día se pone caliente.

No hay nada más bonita,
Que ver a la maestra,
Y aunque hay ratos malos – pero no feo,
A veces la lección no me entra!

Como cada estudiante nuevo,
Mi cerebro vino como un hoyo,
Pero lo pequeño que me sentía,
Se me quito el tercer día.

Grandote es mi interés,
Sabroso mi conocimiento,
Ahhhhhh!!! Se m olvidaba decir,
Gracias al UNID!


Escrito por el equipo:
Brenda Aurora Izaguirre Gill
Juan Jose Courtois Fdz.
Juan Antonio Cetz Ku

Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

INTELLIGENCE

It comes with birth,

But of it we give little worth.

Not realizing that if we nourish it,

We can have more than just a little bit!

So listen to what I say,

There is time to change today.

It is a gift worth gold,

It is something to have and hold.

Success can be yours today,

If you listen to what I say.

Intelligence is the key,

So let it flow, let it be.

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

THE SHOE AND THE ANT

You break my heart,

You tear me apart,

You turn me upside down,

You step on me and turn me around.

You are dark and hard,

You are brown and like card.

You can be green or red,

When you're through with me I am dead.

So when the end is near,

And I see you coming I'm in fear.

For whichever colour that you are,

I know my end is not far.

STOP, LOOK, LISTEN

You have got to stop,

Or you'll never be on top.

You have got to look,

And read the book.

You must listen when people talk,

Don't just ignore them and take the walk.

For if you stop and enjoy the day,

If you look around you in every way,

There are things that you will see,

There are things about you and me,

That if you listen you will hear,

And only then will you truly care.

So, stop and look and listen,

Each man who ever stumbled has risen.

For we have to learn the hard way around,

That better comes after we have fallen to the ground.

Yes stop, and look and listen,

Behind each grey cloud the sun will glisten.

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

NATURE FLOWS

Nature goes about its way,
It does different things every day.
Birds are born and plants die,
And we will always ask ourselves "why?"

But that is the cycle of things on this earth,
That is why we give them so much worth.
What we have to do is enjoy each day,
Live it to the fullest in every way.

Hold true to the values that we possess,
And never leave things to be done by the rest.
Life is short and time is out of our control.
So don't sit and just let things roll.

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

THERE IS SO MUCH LOVE

There is so much that I do,

There is so much about you.

There is so much unknown ,

There is so much we hsve grown.

There is happiness when you are near,

There is love every where.

There is silence in the night,

There is loving in the morning light.

I can only hope that you understand,

That there is a reason you are the man!

I can only show you how much I care,

And hope that you will always be near.

But the wind sings a sad little song,

The the heart tells me that something is wrong.

So I live day by day in fear,

For the love I have for you is so dear.

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

BECAUSE I LOVE YOU

So you walked in,

You were all excited to imagine,

That I was upset at you,

So what could I do?

I LOVE YOU!

You spoke of your night,

I was glad we wouldn't fight,

For I was really angry at you,

So what did I do?

I LOVE YOU!

I'd gone for a ride,

To calm the anger I could not hide,

For you made me really mad at you,

So what did I do?

I LOVE YOU!

You suggested we went for a ride,

So we drove by the bay side,

And talked of the things we'd do,

And what did I do?

I LOVE YOU!

Darn, you win all the time,

If in anger a tree I climb,

You bring me down and make me smile,

And I forget the anger I had for a while,

BECAUSE I LOVE YOU!

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

JUST A FEW LITTLE WORDS

Just few little words,

And you can break my heart.

Just a few little words,

And you can tear it apart.

Just a few little words,

And you made me feel blue.

Just a few little words,

And you probably don't even know what you do.

Just a few little words,

That is all it really takes.

Just a few little words,

And oh how my heart breaks.

Just a few little words,

Just a few little words,

Just a few little words.

Just a few little WORDS.

Brenda A. Ysaguirre
Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

SMILE

(I wrote this for you because you needed cheering up)

You may feel down,

You may want to run,

But SMILE and it will remove the frown.

You may feel sad,

You may feel really bad,

But SMILE and you'll nolonger be mad.

You may feel blue,

You may not know what to do,

But SMILE and your worries will be few.

You may feel lost,

You may wonder why you're not the boss,

But SMILE for its one thing with no cost.

You have today,

You can do things your way,

So SMILE and the clouds won't be gray.

You can be glad,

You can make good out of bad,

So SMILE and you won't feel sad.

If you have a doubt,

And you don't know what you are about,

Just SMILE and send those thoughts south.

For a special person you are,

Not by close but by really far,

So SMILE and stop the personal war.

SMILE,

SMILE,

SMILE.

YOU'LL FEEL BETTER IN A LITTLE WHILE.

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

FOR OUR "KNOW IT ALL" FRIEND

Para NOMAR, Porque te queremos mucho, compadre!

You are a one of a kind,

You've always something on your line.

You know too much and talk alot,

But you are fun and that is that.

When you want to have your own way,

You make us listen to what you have to say.

And there is no stopping you when you eat,

You are pleasant and friend to all you meet.

You drive around on your taxi cab,

And know all the little places and the tab,

Is never really enough for what your do,

You are a friend indeed and oh so true.

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

ON THE RANCH

PARA JONATHAN CON TODO NUESTRO AMOR, DE PARTE DE ABEL Y BRENDA

Run across the grass in a world so free,

Be happy and smile at all you see.

In your world all is wonderful,

In your world everything is beautiful.

The ducks and chicks and the horse walk around,

There is so much going on in the skies and on the ground.

When you walk to the lagoon for a swim or barbecue,

You will always have fun in whatever you do.

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

BELIEVE IN "YOU"

Life is changing every day,

It is harder some will say.

It is exactly what we make of it,

We just have to keep our wit.

Life is a game and we are players all,

It may lead us if we listen to the call.

It can make us do the things we should,

And make us do the things we could.

Life is not impossible, my friend,

So don't throw in the towel, just count to ten.

There is much that you can do,

If you only have faith in YOU!

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

LET'S KEEP THE PEACE

The blue skies are beautiful today,

The clouds are so white they seem to pray.

The birds chirp and fly from tree to tree.

The animals walk around ever so free.

The world is a place of harmony,

The world can be all you want it to be.

But there are places where there is suffering,

And there seem to be too many fighting and killing.

It's time to do something before it is too late.

It's time for the law to circulate.

It's time for us to do our share,

It's time for us to show we care.

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

THE TEAM NO ONE CAN BEAT

Once again the time came,

Once again we set off for the weekend.

Away from where life is a game,

We went to our resort once again.

This time the place was filled with guests,

But still it was fun to have gone west.

The first night we sat under the stars,

In a country life without any bars.

Gabriel and his wife, Mari are so friendly,

And their son, Jonathan is so healthy.

Jose is Mari's brother and he is also kind,

In their world everything is so fine.

We came back to Chetumal so you could sing,

As usual your talent amazes everyone and cheers ring.

You are in a world of love and peace,

Being with you my amazement it seems will never cease.

Then back at mid-night to our hide away

To spend the night with a promise of another wonderful day.

And so it was when we set off for Bacalar after two,

Where we took pictures and you told me of the post you wanted me to do.

It was so nice to spend another weekend with you,

It is always great to share time like we do.

With a year gone by my love for you grows,

I won't lie, we have had our rows.

But someone once said that life had ups and downs,

We just have to keep focus on not wearing many frowns.

For there is so much to enjoy in this world,

We just have to keep planted and not go on a swirl.

So, my friend, may we continue to enjoy times together,

For being with you I can fight any weather.

Together we make quite a team no one will be able to beat,

We'll be together forever as we've been since our heart did meet .

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

ABEL MARTIN

Amazing person that you are,

Brightening my day.

Energy you send me even when you're afar,

Love is all we need you say.

Moments of happiness we share,

Ambitious thoughts tell me you care.

Rare yet all the right things you do,

Tentative and always so true.

Intelligent and willing to help all,

Natural and willing to answer any call.

Lacking nothing for you are free,

Oblivious of the time, you let things be.

Perfect designer and ideas you give,

Enormous talent and happy to live.

Zesty and perky about all you see.

Ruler of your universe,

Open-minded you have no reserve.

Daring to give and expecting of us,

Reliable to assist without a fuss.

Infectious is you laughter and song,

Quiet and peaceful until I came along.

Universalist and lecturer of movtivation,

Electrifying yet free from captivation.

Zippy friend, lover and companion.

THAT IS WHY I LOVE YOU!

You are doing it again,

You are more than my friend.

You know you miss me when I'm away,

And that my voice brightens your day.

All the little things that you do,

Make me increase my love for you.

They tell me how much you care,

And that is why you are so dear.

You say I love you because you're bad!

Darling, you are the best lover I've ever had!

You are the man who fills my thoughts and heart,

Whenever we have to be apart.

You have become a part of me,

It is plain for all to see.

I am happy that we met,

And there is so much for us yet.

So guide me through the fields of green,

And take me up the mountain supreme.

You know just what to do,

That is why I love you!

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

JUST A LITTLE RAIN

Splish splash it goes on the window pane,

Look out world, here comes some rain.

Thunder roll and lightning flash,

And down comes the rain in more than a splash.

It bathes all the darkness and dust away,

And when it is over it brightens the day.

Water is a blessing to make things grow,

That is why we love it so.

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

INVADING ONE'S PRIVACY

To invade one's home and steal one's possession is the work of the ignorant who does not realize that asking for something is easier than stealing it.

(Brenda A. Ysaguirre)

When it occurs it is so sad,

It is something that makes you mad.

It can never be erased from your mind,

For on it you will always reside.

They come in when you are off guard,

And what they do is really hard.

They invade your privacy and your peace.

They let you feel fear and anger you release.

For every right that they make wrong,

For every weakness that they make strong,

I hope they pay for what they do,

And I hope that justice can come through.

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

JONATHAN

Para Jonathan, con Amor

Ah youth, how great you are,

When you are older will you want a car?

Today you run around on the farm,

Today you are protected from all harm.

At age two there is so much to do.
At age two everyone loves you.
You are the picture of good health,
The lagoon and the farm add to your "wealth".

You are happy as you run around,

You are strong and enjoying the sun.

You fill the day with your joy,

You are mommy and daddy's little boy.

Jonathan, you are a child of the universe.

You fill our hearts until it wants to burst.

In your childhood happiness you play,

May God bless you each and every day.

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

REMEMBERING A SPECIAL TIME TOGETHER

The ranch was green and the sun shone bright,

The lagoon was clear even in the moonlight.

The chickens, turkeys and ducks went about their way,

Oh it was two glorious and memorable days.

The peace gave us time to relax and de-stress,

It made us realize that this idea was the best.

There is no doubt in my mind what we did was great,

Now I realize that loving you didn't come late.

At just the right time you came into my life and my heart,

At just the right time we how accept that we are a part,

Of this thing we call friendship and love and happiness,

For you are one of a kind and no doubt you are the best!

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

A WEEKEND GET-A-WAY

You said we'd go for a weekend away,

You added it was time for us to have our day.

So we drove off on Saturday and headed west,

To a place in the country where we would rest.

It was a beautiful day when we headed out,

Leaving Chetumal in the East and Corozal in the South.

It was really nice to be on the road with you,

I was looking forward to the things we would do.

We drove for a while and then bought some cheese,

Everything was going with such ease.

Suddenly you stopped and we reversed a little bit,

This was where we were going, this was it!

So we drove in off the road for a while,

And were met by four happy persons each with a smile.

Our things were loaded onto a wheel barrow,

This was a place of happiness and never of sorrow.

We climbed the stairs to our cabana for the time we would be there,

And around us we admired all the things we could see and hear.

It was a fabulous weekend hide-way,

And I am glad you decided to take the day.

These are the things I love about you,

These are things that I admire that you do.

Thank you for a weekend filled with love and good cheer.

Thank you my darling, thank you my dear.

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

IT'S ONE YEAR NOW!

It's one year now,

That you and I met.

It's one year now,

And there are still things we haven't done yet.

It's one year now,

You've taught me how to live.

It's one year now,

And there has been so much to recieve and give.

It's one year now,

I've been smiling at you.

It's one year now,

That you make me feel the way I do.

It's one year now,

And I am the luckiest woman there can be.

It's one year now,

And my love is plain to see.

It's one year now,

And I want you forever by my side.

It's one year now,

And there is nothing for us to hide.

It's one year now,

And we are heading for you two.

It's one year now,

Since I began saying, "I love you!"

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

DON'T WORRY, THINGS WILL GET BETTER

When the sky is grey,
And you had a bad day,
Don't give in, just smile.

When everything seems to go wrong,
And the bank line seems too long,
Don't get angry, it'll take a while.

When your friends laugh at you,
And you don't know what to do,
Don't be mad, that's life.

If the water pipe burst,
Or your headache gets worst,
Don't worry, continue the strife.

If your vehicle gets a flat,
And someone told you you're bigger than your hat,
Don't make a fuss, it you must just delete.

For sooner or later things will get better,
Someone may even send you a thank you letter,
And life will look you in the face and you will be complete.

Brenda A, Ysaguirre
Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

YOU FILL MY WORLD

A year has no gone by,

Since that first night that we met.

And I cannot tell a lie,

We have so much we have not done yet.

But as new things we do from time to time,

My joy is complete.

And I gladly each rong will climb,

Because I know at the top you I will meet.

You fill my world with so much of the NOW,

And my heart with happiness and love.

People look at me and wonder how,

I got showered with love from above.

There is no doubt it was to be,

This friendship that we share.

And time stands still for you and me,

Because for each other we truly care.

So thank you for being here,

And filling my life with song.

You are my friend and lover, so dear.

With you by my side nothing goes wrong.

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

FOR ANELIE AND HER LITTLE ANGEL

(I'm still awaiting my picture of the baby, Anelie!!!)

You fill her mornings and her night,
You are her special little light.
You give her reason to move along,
With you by her side she won't go wrong.

A special little angel you are to Anelie,
From the moment you grew in her belly.
And now that you share her days,
You're added energy to the sun's rays.

Your laughter and your squeal,
Tells us that you are real.
Your smile and your chatter,
Let's Anelie know nothing is the matter.

So blessed little angel that you are,
There is no one by far,
That your mommy can love more than you,
And she'll show it daily in everything she will do.

Brenda A. Ysaguirre
Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

A SPECIAL REASON

For Juan Carlos, with all my best wishes

Most nights daddy came to school,

To learn the golden rule.

He knew what he had to do,

So he did it all for you.

You are his joy and his love,

You are his little dove.

The happiness you give to your dad,

Makes him quite a lad.

He grew up over night we all could see,

To be the father that he should be.

And now he walks around with pride,

And a joy in his heart that he cannot hide.

For you fill your daddy's life with everything,

And all the angel can do is sing.

For there is so much love everywhere,

For to him and your mother you are so dear.

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

SI NO DUERMEN MUCHO PERO VEN MUCHO TELE LOS HIJOS PUEDEN SUBIR DE PESO

Less sleep, more TV, ups toddler weight
BOSTON (UPI) -- Infants and toddlers who sleep less than 12 hours a day are twice as likely to become overweight by age 3 than children who sleep longer, a U.S. study found. The study, published in the Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, found children who sleep less than 12 hours and who view two or more hours of television per day have a 16 percent chance of becoming overweight by age 3. "Mounting research suggests that decreased sleep time may be more hazardous to our health than we imagined," lead author Dr. Elsie Taveras of the Harvard Medical School's Department of Ambulatory Care and Prevention says in a statement. "We are now learning that those hazardous effects are true even for young infants." The study involved 915 mother-infant pairs from Project Viva, a long-term study of the effects of diet and other lifestyle factors on maternal and child health over time. Infant weight and measurements were taken at several in-person visits up to age 3. Mothers reported how many hours their child slept per day on average at 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years. Parents were also asked to report the average number of hours their children watched television on weekdays and weekends.

Copyright 2008 by United Press International

NEIDI AND RUBEN'S JOY

When your mom said you were on the way,

I got furious that day.

For she was so young and I had to fear,

She dd not know what was coming near.

But then you arrived and is was plain to see,

She would be all the mother that she could be.

So I joined in and wished her well,

For her happiness I could tell.

You fill her world with so much love,

I know you are blessed from the one above.

Your daddy is also thrilled with having you,

His love is oh so true.

So special wishes for the girl,

Who came into their world.

Special wishes for Neidi's little treasure,

And daddy Ruben's greatest pleasure.

FOR JENNIFER, A SPECIAL BABY GIRL

You are your mother's joy,

And your daddy's little girl.

You are their special little "toy"

The best thing in their world.

Your happiness is plain to see,

Whenever someone calls your name.

It is obvious that you can be,

Someone of much fame.

For with love and parents like yours,

The world is in your hand.

And there will be many happy hours,

For that is the Creator's plan.

So smile, chubby little girl,

And show the world that you can be,

Someone special in this world,

Enjoying everything that you see.

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

DON'T GIVE IN

For a special friend who needed this poem now.

When you are feeling low,

Wherever you go,

There is something you must do,

And that is to think only on YOU.

The sky is your world,

Remember you are a woman not a girl.

The sea is your friend,

No one can hurt you then.

Keep your head high,

Don't utter sigh.

Don't bend your shoulder in defeat,

Look straight up and let your eyes meet.

Show that you are strong,

And nothing can go wrong.

Show that you are no weak,

And you will find the comfort you seek.

The world is in your hand,

You must always have a plan.

For if you try to falter or wilt,

Your fate they will tilt.

Remember you are POWER,

Remember this si your HOUR.

Don't give in to the oppressor,

Show that you are a survivor.

For once your attitude you change,

New things come within your range.

And no one can mar your happiness,

And you will be ble to give your best.

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

THERE IS MUCH

There is so much to see,

There is so much to be.

There is so much you need,

There is so much indeed.

So go out and find,

That ladder to climb.

Go out and reap,

The great knowledge you seek.

Don't wait for tomorrow,

Don't wait for pain and sorrow.

There is much you can be,

If you just listen to me.

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

IN THIS NEW BELIZE

We are on the move,
In this new Belize.
We have much to do,
In this new Belize.

As hard time hits the world,
Like in this new Belize.
There is work for each boy and girl.
In this new Belize.

So from dawn to dusk,
In this new Belize.
Each his part to do must,
In this new Belize.

For many great things can happen,
In this new Belize.
And our work will never end,
In this new Belize.

So let us join in the fight,
For this new Belize.
For prosperity comes with dawn's light
IN THIS NEW BELIZE!

Brenda A. Ysaguirre
Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

YOU ALWAYS DO

Whenever I am feeling blue,

You always seem to know just what to do.

You tell me things I want to hear,

Or take me places to erase my fear.

And people ask me why I love you,

It's because men like you are so few.

You came into my life just when I needed a friend,

And the bond we share will have no end.

So wonderful it is to sit with you,

And enjoy all the things that we do.

The plans we make and the trips we take,

This love is sure and pure and no heartbreak.

There is so much that I could say,

There is so much to look forward to each day.

I live for the moments we are together,

I live for the happiness that will be forever.

So while the earth spins everyday,

I know there is nothing we have to say.

The time, the moment, the events that happen,

Are once in a life time events that will never end.

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

LIVING IN NOTHINGNESS

The joy of the day and the glow of the night

All have no meaning if there is a fight.

The anticipation of a few hours alone,

Always get marred by the chat line or phone.

There is no time I can truly call ours today,

Except late at night when everyone goes away,

Only then are we alone but you still are like glue,

Stuck to a computer with you darn work to do.

And the happiness I sometimes feel turns gray,

When things happen to take you so far away.

So I sit and I think of the year now gone by,

And wonder if it was a dream or did Cupid tell me a lie.

Why do you seem so far away?

Why can't I just tell you what I have to say?

The few minutes we share are not enough for me,

Why can't I have the love that could set me free?

I may be wishing for something impossible it seem.

I may be living in a fantasy and a dream.

But I know we can have a whole lot more,

If you just open that hidden, secret door.

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

OMNILIFE AND ME

You look at me and you want to know,
You look at me and you have to ask.
You look at me and you want the glow,
You look at me and you think it is a mask.

It took some time but it happened to me,
And a few months were worth it all,
For now I can be all I want to be,
And now I follow a different call.

So ask me what it is I did,
And I will tell you that you can be the same,
It is not a secret and its not hidden under a lid,
OMNILIFE is not a fake or a game.

Come join this family for better health,
Come join this family and feel the glow,
For you can get more than increase in wealth,
For OMNILIFE will let you like a river flow.

Brenda A. Ysaguirre
Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

TAKE THE CHALLENGE

There is so much we can do,

There is so much we can say,

There is so much for you,

There is so much each and every day.

So come and join the force,

Come and do your best,

Come and take the course,

Come and CCC will do the rest.

For there is so much for you to learn,

There is so much for you to want,

And the diploma that you will earn,

Will turn nightmares into dreams that will not haunt.

So take the challenge and you will see,

That there is a future waiting for you,

And your dream will become a reality,

By accepting that it is what you want to do.

Brenda A.Ysaguirre

Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

IT'S CLEAR

It's clear

Why I am here.

It's clear,

Why you are near.

It's clear,

What I hear.

It's clear,

Why you care.

It's clear,

It was meant to be.

It's clear,

There is a you and me.

It's clear,

What is on my mind.

It's clear,

Why life is divine.

It's clear,

I am happy that we met.

It's clear,

We have so much more to do yet.

It's clear,

That I love you.

It's clear,

That you love me too.

It's clear,

As you can see.

It's clear,

This was meant to be.

It's clear,

Why we met.

It's clear,

There is so much for us to do yet.

It's clear,

My Darling, my dear.

It's clear,

Why with you I have no fear.

It's clear,

How this will end.

It's clear,

I'll always be your friend.

It's clear,

We will always have each other.

It's clear,

I'll never want another.

Its clear,

Where this love will go.

It's clear,

Why I love you so.

IT'S CLEAR!!

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Copyright 2008 Brenda A Ysaguirre

I CAN AND YOU CAN, OUR TWO GREEN BABY PARROTS

Tame as they can be,

It is plain and clear to see,

That I Can and You Can,

Have adapted to our world.

They come in every morning,

To get their daily meal,

And if you are sleeping,

They'll wake you up with a squeal.

They are officially a part of the family,

And act like two children,

Who walk around quite happily,

As their father talks to them.

Most times they only want affection,

A cuddle and a pat,

Then their wings flutter into action.

As they sit on your shoulder or in your lap.

Nap time may be under the computer table,

While relax music fills the air.

One day they will be chatting and able,

To whistle sweet music so clear.

For now we look on with love and in wonder,

As their presence in our lives is added joys.

We understand why we had to go yonder,

To bring home these two little boys.

So I Can and You Can you are so bright,

And we are happy that you are here,

For you fill our morning and our night,

With your love so special and so dear.

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

A FRIEND

A friend is someone special,

A friend is someone true.

A friend will always be there,

When you need someone there for you.

A friend always listens,

A friend never says "good for you."

A friend will cry when you cry,

And wipe your tears by and by.

A friend will say just the right words,

A friend will share your pain.

A friend will be more than one of the girls,

Who will listen as you tell the tale over again.

So be a friend and you will see,

What treasure there is in caring,

For if you are a friend to me,

There will be much we will be sharing.

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

WE CAN RE-ARRANGE

I love the way I feel,

I love the way I am,

I love the fact that this is real,

I love the idea that I can.

The things of this world are nothing,

If we don't understand,

That life is just a past time,

That leads us by the hand.

If we should stop and think,

Of all the things we have done,

We would probably not sleep a wink,

For our minds would be on the run.

But one thing is for sure,

That our choices we can re-arrange,

For when we choose a door,

Nothing says it we cannot change.

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

COROZAL'S SUNRISE

Living on the coast in the town of Corozal,

Can be very special to one and all.

For the beautiful Corozal Bay glitters,

When the sunrise over it flickers.

Oh, to sit and enjoy nature at its best,

In a place so different from all the rest.

Two Mayan monuments are a part of us,

That offer a past that refuses to become dust.

The friendly people with smiling faces,

You've never seen the likes of so many races,

Joined together and living in harmony,

The wealthy and even those without money.

I think the rays of the sunrise is involved,

I bet it shines out rays of love.

Oh, don't get me wrong we have our problems, too,

But we won't stop and wonder what next to do.

The sunrise is too beautiful to ignore,

So go ahead and open the door.

Let it in your home and your heart,

Trust me, it will be hard to break apart.

For if you want a colourful, peaceful place,

To relax and run away from the old rat race,

You must visit my town of COROZAL,

We welcome you - ONE AND ALL!!

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

February, 2002

Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

YOU SAID

You said you'd love me,

Why did you have to lie?

I believed we could be

Together -I forgot love sometimes die.

That just goes to show,

That I can still believe,

Words that from you did flow,

Because I never expected you to leave.

The years have gone by really fast,

And once it would have seem like just yesterday to me,

Back then I thought your love would last,

I guess it was because the real you I did not see.

But now my life is challenging and new,

Now there is someone special in my heart,

Now there is new meaning to all I do,

Now I am glad we moved apart.

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

FOR MRS. MARTHA - A SPECIAL PERSON

At first meeting, there's that sparkle in your eyes,
Which is followed by sincerity that in your heart lies.
You are a one of a kind,
Supportive, Honest and Fine!

In your voice is that soft motherly love,
I'm sure you've been blessed by the Lord above.
Your laughter is filled with warmth so true,
We've all been touched just by being near you.

Your dedication to San Pedro High,
Will never be forgotten as time goes by.
To this institution You will always be a part,
For giving loyal service from the heart.

Mrs. Martha, ray of sunshine, glittering light,
Caring, dedicated and always doing what's right,
We pray you'll always be just as you are today,
Jovial, carefree and energetic - come what may.

So thank you for the hard work and dedication,
Thank you for always giving without hesitation.
Today we salute your accomplishments and YOU,
There's not enough words to describe how we feel about you.

So please accept our few words so sincere,
To someone so special and ever so dear.
Three cheers for the person so special and true,
Three cheers, Mrs. Martha, as we salute YOU!

Brenda Ysaguirre
May 26, 2007
Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

I STILL

I still admire everything you say,

I still want to be with you everyday.

I still love that look in your eyes,

I still hate when my time with you flies.

I still can't get enough of your time,

I still wish that the bells could chime.

I still want you by my side forever,

I still want to be with you through stormy weather.

I still love the sound of your voice on the phone,

I still love every moment that we spend alone.

I still hungry for your touch when I am away,

I still want you to hold me every single day.

I still love you, my knight in white,

I still love you with all my might.

I still love you with all my heart,

I still love you and hate when we're apart.

I still love you with all we've been through,

I still love you for all the things you do,

I still hope my dreams you'll fulfill,

I still love you and I always will.

Brenda A Ysaguirre

Copyright 2008 Brenda A Ysaguirre

FOR ALL THE SONGS

For all the nights you sang to me,
Thanks for the memories.

For all the songs you sang to me,
Thanks for making me feel free.

For all the songs you sang at night,
Thanks for shining like a light.

For all the songs that we share,
I'll cherish them, oh, so dear.

For all the songs you sent to me,
Thanks for an act so loving and free.

For all the songs you have yet to sing,
Could they please come with a ring?

For all the songs I'll sing to you,
When I finally tell you that I do.

For all the songs, my darling, my love,
Thanks for making me soar high above.

Brenda A. Ysaguirre
Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

YOU'RE NOT THE BOSS OF ME!

Stop telling me what to do,

All you need to say is "I Love You".

Stop telling me how to act,

Why can't you just face the fact?

Stop telling what to say,

You do it every single day!

Stop telling me those painful things,

Now my head just rings and rings.

Stop telling me you can't live with me,

Can't my love just be free?

Stop telling me you tire,

You were the one to set me on fire.

Stop telling me all these things,

Stop telling me what my heart sings!

Stop telling me, just let me be,

Because YOU'RE NOT THE BOSS OF ME!

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

PORQUE SIENTO...

Porque siento el frio?

Porque siento que ya no eres mio?

Porque siento un inquietud?

Porque siento que hay algo en tu attitud?

Porque siento que estes lejos,

Porque siento una distancia en tus besos?

Porque siento que no me quieres?

Porque siento que mio ya no eres?

Porque siento que el deseo se fue?

Porque lo siento, no lo se.

Porque siento que ya te perdi?

Porque siento que es asi?

Porque hay otra?

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

ONLY YOU CAN

I sit and think of you,

And all the things that we will do!

Every time that I am alone,

I wish you'd call me on the phone.

I lay in bed and dream of you,

And all the things we'll have to do.

So many things come to my mind,

I can't wait for our bodies to entwine.

Why have you done this to me?

Now only you can set me free.

Free to love, to want, to give.

All of me to you as long as I live.

So make my dream a reality, my love.

Take me to the mountains and clouds above.

Light your flame and consume me with your fire,

For only you can satisfy my flaming desire.

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre

IT'S NO SECRET

I'm sitting on top of the world,

Feeling like a teenage girl,

Wondering where I am heading,

And enjoying this new life I am living.

This new me is quite unique,

And I'll let you in so you can have a peek,

And share this new life that is mine to keep,

There is no secret to it neither dark nor deep.

You have got to just accept that life can be good,

And do all that is right as everyone should.

A positive mind is all you need,

So all you should do is no big deed.

Help others and let love flow,

And soon you will surely know,

That the new person that you see,

Is being all that she can be.

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Copyright 2008 Brenda A. Ysaguirre