Other individuals don’t possess those particularly gifts but have different varieties to offer.  They might be savvy business types who voluntarily share their expertise and knowledge to help people not as intuitive in the field.

Myra Kraft, a Worcester native, had multiple gifts, and she used them to better our world.  With unquestionable drive, she devoted many hours and resources to the causes she held dear; sadly, she passed this past week.  Because this amazing individual positively influenced the lives of so many people, let’s look more closely at her beautiful life.

Myra Kraft was born in Worcester, MA, on December 27, 1942.  She was the daughter of Worcester residents Jacob and Frances Hiatt.  Her family demonstrated a philanthropic spirit early on, so a give-back mentality was fostered at a young age.

Mrs. Kraft graduated from Brandeis University in 1964.  She married Robert Kraft, now-owner of the New England Patriots, and they raised a lovely family.

With an eagerness to make a difference, Myra Kraft undoubtedly achieved her objectives.  She formerly served on the board of directors for the Boys and Girls Club of Boston, the Boston Foundation, the United Way of Massachusetts Bay, and a few others.  She was president and director of the New England Patriots Charitable Foundation; the organization assists needy children and their families.

Mrs. Kraft not only held board positions in her charitable pursuits, but she also manned phones and made fundraising calls.  She worked in the metaphorical trenches to improve lives.  She was passionate in her endeavors, and her integrity and generosity never ceased to amaze those around her.  She held a special affection for her Jewish heritage and supported a number of Jewish causes.  Even so, that did not stop her from supporting Catholic Charities and other faith-based organizations that help people in need.

What was Mrs. Kraft like on a personal level?  No one knows for certain but her family and friends.  Still, from many accounts, it seems she was strong yet kind, determined yet unassuming.  She shunned the spotlight, but her laudable deeds brought her notice, anyway.  She was a woman of means, but she strove to use her gifts to help provide meaning to her own life and the lives of others.

Our world is full of lessons, and we are always learning, no matter what our age.   What can we learn from this remarkable Worcester native?  All of us are capable of making a difference in some way.  Certainly, our talents and resources may not be the same, but we can give back: whether it is a kind word to lift someone’s day, a volunteer position at an animal shelter walking dogs, writing a check to improve educational supplies, or donating food to a soup kitchen.

Yes, we all have gifts, and we can use them: Myra Kraft’s life is a wonderful example of that.

Still, there are precautions everyone can take to make the winter season a little easier.  Here are a few.

• Remove roof snow.  Snow piled on the roof can turn into a nightmare.  Why?  Weighted snow can pose a threat to the structural integrity of the roof.  At the same time, melting snow (or ice) can seep into the roof and cause water damage.  What can you do to prevent these problems?  Have the snow removed by a professional.  If you decide to tackle the job on your own, roof rakes are available at many hardware stores.  And, be certain to make sure there is adequate insulation in the attic.  A well-insulated underside helps keep ice or snow from melting too quickly.
• Clear important walkways.  Snow or ice-covered walkways spell t-r-o-u-b-l-e because someone could fall and sustain an injury.  Consequently, it is important to keep foot paths clear.  Winter tools like shovels and ice picks are particularly useful when tackling this task.  Another thought is to scatter environmentally-safe granules to dissolve the frozen water.  Salt has been popular for years but might cause damage to the concrete, so it is best to use it sparingly.  Lastly, heated outdoor mats are very convenient, especially for people who cannot shovel on their own.  Where would you put them?  In areas that tend to become slippery or snow-covered.  There are different sizes available, and some are even made for the steps.  A caveat?  They must be accessible to an appropriate outdoor outlet.

Naturally, snow and ice headaches can occur in areas besides the roof and walkway.  Here are some other thoughts to consider.

a)  Weighted tree branches may fall on to homes, cars, and even people.  Therefore, be sure to assess branch risks at all times.

b)  Melting snow by windows and doors can result in growing mold.  Subsequently, remove snow from window wells and doorways.

c)  Blocked furnace or dryer vents can mean carbon monoxide seeping into your home.  Because of this, check all vents to make sure they are free from snow or ice buildup.

d)  Inhibited exhaust pipes also mean carbon monoxide danger.  For that reason, if your running car becomes stuck in the snow, make sure the exhaust pipe is unobstructed.

Yes, more snow is on the way, but with a few simple safeguards, we can weather the storm just fine!

What are some other winter solstice facts?  Here are a few fun things to know.

• The winter solstice takes place because the earth’s axial tilt is the farthest away it will be from the sun.
• It its purest sense, the winter solstice lasts only for a moment.
• The first day of winter and the winter solstice occur simultaneously.
• Some people refer to the winter solstice as the longest night of the year.
• Different cultures around the world recognize the winter solstice as a type of rebirth and hold festivities to honor the occasion.
• Germanic people recognized the winter solstice with Yule celebrations (thus, the origin of the current Yule log tradition).
• The ancient Roman festival of Saturnalia commemorated the winter solstice with parades, celebrations, and servants temporarily trading places with their masters.
• The nights begin to get shorter and the days begin getting longer following the winter solstice.
• The sun appears at it lowest position in the sky during the winter solstice.  It also looks this way for a few days preceding and following the occurrence.
• The word solstice is derived from the Latin words sol and sistere.  Translated, this means something like to cause the sun to stand still.
• This year in North America, a total lunar eclipse will coincide with the winter solstice.  This spectacular event has not happened in more than 350 years!  (Hey, if you can stay up, get out and watch!)

The winter solstice will come and go, but traditions remain alive in our hearts.  They help us stay focused, allow us to better discern the larger picture, and cast a childlike spirit in our eyes.  So, keep warm on the shortest day of the year, and Happy Holidays!

Here are some trivia tidbits.

• Giant pumpkins can weigh in excess of 1,000 pounds.

• Most of this nation’s pumpkins are available in the month of October.

• Not only are pumpkins edible, but their flowers can also be consumed (hmm, maybe dipped in egg, flour, and then fried in olive oil?).

• Pumpkins are native to North America, and cousin seeds can be traced back thousands of years.

• Pumpkin pie is a feature dessert on Thanksgiving, perhaps because early settlers regularly consumed a heated version of the squash with honey and spices.

• Pumpkins are popular throughout the world.

• Pumpkins contain a high degree of water, therefore, if using in recipes (such as pumpkin pie), refrigerate to avoid bacteria growth.

• Some veterinarians recommend feeding cooked pumpkin to pets, particularly if they seem to be experiencing stomach distress.

• Pumpkins are low in calories, high in potassium, contain only a negligible amount of fat, and possess vitamin C, fiber, iron, and calcium.

• The subtle flavor of pumpkin makes it very versatile.  It can be included in soups, stews, drinks, side dishes, breads, pies, muffins, and a medley of other culinary delights (like cookies!).

• Native Americans used pumpkins for medicinal purposes, eating, and even dried out to make mats.

• The State of Illinois is alleged to be the pumpkin capital.

• Some researchers have suggested that pumpkin extract may aid Type-1 diabetes.

• The seeds from pumpkins are edible and contain beneficial vitamins and minerals.

• Pumpkin seed oil contains essential fatty acids.

Okay, as you can see, there’s not much to dislike about pumpkins.  They’re fun, good for you, and have even become illustrious stars in books and movies (e.g., Cinderella, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, Harry Potter).

So, forget about smashing them, why waste something so enjoyable?

Naturally, a number of us do not have the resources or desire to do this on a daily basis; nonetheless, it’s definitely a treat every now and then.

Well, if you are someone who enjoys restaurants, then the next two weeks are for you.

Why?  The Worcester Restaurant Week of 2010 is now being held August 2 until August 15.  Numerous restaurants are participating, and the cost, at least when you consider all the food you get, is excellent.

How much is it?  Well, for $22.10 per person (excluding tax and tip), here’s an example of a few of the 3-course offerings.

• Tweeds Pub.  Onion soup as a starter, flame-broiled steak served with potato and veggie, and grapenut pudding as a delectable ending.  (By the way, there are two other 3-course meals to choose from!).
• Sole Proprietor.  First course choices consist of green salad, jumbo shrimp cocktail, calamari, or California roll.  Entrees options are haddock, tuna (we’re not talking canned here), or grilled salmon.  And the finale?  Flourless chocolate cake, sundae, or chocolate cup.  Yummy!!!
• Via ItalianTable.  Beginnings?  Jumbo shrimp cocktail, goat cheese salad with asparagus, insalata mista, or calamari.  Second course?  Tuscan shrimp scampi, sirloin of beef, or chicken parm.  Sweet conclusion?  Gelato, cannoli, or panna cotta.
• 111 Chop House.  For starters, there’s a choice of lobster bisque, jumbo shrimp cocktail, or fried calamari.  The main event includes a selection of hanger steak with scallop stuffed jumbo shrimp, baked haddock with scallop stuffing, or ribeye steak.  Did we save the best for last?  Perhaps, especially if you enjoy fruit cobbler, chocolate tulip cup, or vanilla ice cream with cookie.

There are numerous dining facilities participating in Worcester Restaurant Week 2010 in addition to the options listed above.  Some others?  Aspara, Biagio’s Evo, Flying Rhino, Webster House, Viva Bene, Old Timer, Squire’s Val’s  (and many more!).

Dining out tends to brighten up many a face; after all, everyone has to eat.  For a more comprehensive listing concerning this “palatable” event, you may wish to log on to www.worcesterrestaurantweek.com.

1. Value old friends and welcome new ones.  Friendships work to keep us vital and bestow a remarkable sense of zeal into our lives.
2. Smile at a children.  Believe it or not, you are an unwitting instructor and will be teaching a lesson of kindness that could remain a lifetime.
3. Cry when you need to.  Even if you have to retreat to a solitary space, don’t suppress tears.  Releasing emotion helps us to deal with other issues at hand.
4. Throw a picture party.  Every now and then it’s wonderful to pull out the albums and reminisce about happy times (maybe with cheese, crackers, and wine as accompaniments?).
5. Encourage your children no matter what their age.  We often need the support of our parents no matter how old we are!
6. Respect your parents.  They may never live up to the idealized images that reside in your head, but chances are they love you just the same.
7. Call an old friend.  Even if you are the one who made the last contact, pick up the phone.  Some people become preoccupied with everyday living and forget to stay in touch.
8. Treat yourself to a luxurious indulgence every now and then.  As long as the extravagance does not become habitual, no one is getting hurt (and you deserve it!).
9. Don’t beat yourself up over past mistakes.  No one is perfect, flawless, or devoid of error.  Instead, think of the misguided steps as learning tools.
10. Strive to be the best you can be.  As you do this, though, do not knock those around you.  Otherwise, your best will be the worst in you.

Another year has arrived, and with it comes a renewed sense of hope for the future.  May 2010 hold peace, happiness, and the fulfillment of all that is good within us.

• Party Punch.  This drink is fruity and adds a measure of refreshment to an afternoon or evening party.  In a punch bowl, mix 8 cups of cold orange juice, 1 bottle of fruit juice (100% juice is preferred), and one bottle of Dry Champagne, sparkling wine, or sparkling cider (sparkling cider is a great nonalcoholic alternative).  Slice one orange (rind on), and cut in half 10 to 15 strawberries: add to bowl.  If desired, squeeze ½ a lemon into the concoction.  (If making the alcohol version, you can also add a shot or two of Triple Sec, as well).  Taste.  If the flavor is too pungent, add cold water (in small increments) until the taste is right for you.

• Wine Spritzer.  This recipe is simple to make and pleasant to drink; it can be prepared with red or white wine (both versions will be included).  White wine.  Combine one bottle of dry white wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay will do nicely), one bottle of unflavored sparkling water, and one small can of frozen strawberry concentrate (or any other fruity concentrate).  Blend well in a large bowl.  Ladle mixture into wine glasses and garnish with fresh berries.  (For a nonalcoholic delight, replace the white wine with a nonalcoholic white wine or white grape juice).  Red Wine.  Combine one bottle of red wine (Chianti goes perfectly) and one two-liter bottle of carbonated orange soda (or ginger ale).  Ladle into appropriate wine glasses and garnish with fruit.  (For an alcohol-free adaptation, use nonalcoholic red wine or red grape juice).

• Spicy Coffee.  So you prefer something hot?  How about a coffee drink?  Mix ½ cup of instant coffee (decaf if you prefer), ½ cup of brown sugar, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, ¼  teaspoon of ground cloves, and 9 to 10 cups of hot milk (low-fat if you are watching calories).  Pour in coffee cups, and top with a shake or two of ground cinnamon.  NOTE:  For an alcohol-infused chocolate flair, add 2 to 3 shots of Godiva Original Liqueur or Crème de Cacao before pouring.

* It is important to note that all of theabove can be made without alcohol.  If using alcohol, remember to drink water regularly to avoid dehydration (and don’t drink and drive).

Another festive thought?  Soak fruits like cut oranges and peaches in red wine for several days (or longer) for a delightful, fruity aperitif.  Again, Chianti is great; however, purple grape juice can be used for a nonalcoholic option (keep the liquid covered in an airtight jar, bottle, or container).

So, 2009 is almost over.  Let us raise our glasses in thanks for the blessings in our lives and the hopes of a New Year filled with happiness, health, abundance, and gratitude!  God Bless.

1. Make Lists.  Lists bring structure to otherwise fragmented thoughts and help us to remember what we want to do.  For example, if you have multiple presents to buy, put the recipients’ names on a list.  As you purchase the gifts, check the names off.  A second “list” must?  Holiday cards.  Write down everyone you wish to include and check the person off as you go along (you will never have to wonder if you remembered to include Aunt Janie).  The same holds true for grocery lists.  Jot down the food, beverage, and paper items you need.  As you buy them, check them off.  If you can’t find everything you are looking for, fold the paper and place it neatly in your coat or purse (you can easily pull it out at a future date and know exactly what you are looking for).  NOTE:  You can always add to the list, or even change the list.  The important thing is you will have a point of reference.
2. Decorate in Stages.  Some people put out a few decorations to celebrate the holidays, while others have a storage room full of items.  For those in the latter category, it might be wise to take the decorations out in stages (so you don’t overload).  Another thought?  If you ornament different rooms, do one at a time.  If the items are not segregated to accomplish this task, then retrieve only manageable amounts.  If it works out that certain decorations remain stored for the season, so be it.  The main thing is, you take pleasure in doing what you are doing (and feel cheerful about why you are doing it).
3. Plan Holiday Meals in Advance. Most people have a general idea as to what they will be serving on special occasions, but some individuals wait until the last minute to purchase the ingredients.  To avoid deadline pressure, buy ahead.  A number of items can be kept fresh in the refrigerator or cupboard (be sure to check for expiration dates).  Other groceries can be easily frozen (like ravioli).  Buy only the food with a short shelf life “last minute.”  NOTE: You can also cook certain dishes ahead of time.  A pot of sauce, baked ziti, some desserts, etc., can be made a day (perhaps two) before without compromising freshness or taste.

Other ideas?  Wash your hands frequently (and carry hand sanitizer), wear weather-appropriate clothing in the cold, and enlist family members to help out with chores.  Staying organized this season could help make the holidays both merry and bright!

No, Twitter is a networking service that lets users send and receive messages via a cell phone or the Internet.  Why? Because people are social creatures, and many wish to stay connected with friends, family, and other individuals who share their interests.  The character maximum is only 140 per message.  Why else would someone “tweet” throughout the day?  They have a lot to say!

So what is the Twitter hype really all about?  Here are some thoughts.

Private or Public.  Twitter users have the option of deciding who sees the “tweets.”  In other words, their words can be posted in an open forum, or they can choose selective viewers via direct messaging.

Networking Tool.  Twitter users can reach out to large audiences.  This means if an individual wants to share specifics about a business or product, the opportunity for information exchange is extremely impressive.

Up-to-date.  Twitter users can send up-to-the-minute details concerning their day.  Some people find this notion peculiar, but others actually enjoy keeping others abreast as to the happenings in their lives.

Tracking.  If users are interested in receiving immediate feedback about their product or business, there are services (such as Monitter) that offer real life commentaries.

Maybe some of you remain unsure and assume that Twitter is just a youthful fad.  Still it’s interesting to note that the majority of Twitter users are adults.  It’s also fascinating to mention that seniors are also engaging in micro-blogging.  How come?  Because they can brainstorm with contemporaries, exchange information, promote their businesses, stay in touch with friends, share hobby ideas, etc.  Even NASA invited 100 selected Twitter users to tweet about the space shuttle blastoff.

Okay, so perhaps you remain skeptical, and every now and then, skepticism is not a bad thing.  After all, Twitter does gather personal information and could share it with third parties.  In addition, posting private information for the world to see might not always be sensible, so it’s wise to choose the “140 characters” carefully (particularly if the tweets are not audience selective).

At least for now, Twitter does not appear to be going anywhere.  In fact, since its founding in 2006, it has enjoyed tremendous growth.  Is it here to stay?  Perhaps.

So what are some measures we can take to keep out the cold?  A few are relatively inexpensive.

• Evaluate the Windows.  There’s little doubt that updating drafty windows with expensive replacements will help keep the warmth in, but sometimes pricey windows are not feasible.  A frugal alternative?  Fill in the gaps.  Hardware stores sell reasonably-priced window plastic (at maybe $3 to $7 a window) to block cracks and help windows maintain a tighter seal.  Or, perhaps, you might prefer to caulk?  Caulking is cheap, simple, and can be used in a multitude of places.  Just clean the edges of your windows (or wherever the gaps are) and grab the caulk gun!
• Weatherstrip the Doors. Some doors do not tightly close at the sides and bottom; consequently, heat can escape.  Weatherstripping helps prevent that problem.  Metal and vinyl varieties are popular choices and very economical.  Decorative metals are slightly higher in cost than vinyl but often add an aesthetic flair.  Naturally, it is important for the strip to fit snugly.  In addition, it should encompass the length of the door jam.  Incidentally, you can also use weatherstripping on your windows, chimney, or almost any place you feel a chill!
• Check Your Fireplace.  Fireplaces are cozy; still, they can let in a breeze.  To ensure that your fireplace is not a heat-buster, have an inspector check the damper.  If the damper is worn, then heat could be escaping (and it might need replacing).  There’s actually a product called Chimney Balloon Fireplace Damper.  The concept behind this removable device (it is designed for insertion when the fireplace is NOT in use) is to stop warm air from traveling up the chimney.  Another fireplace thought?  Make sure the flue is closed when the fireplace is not operating!

There are low-cost ways to help keep heat “in” and cold “out” this upcoming winter.  Other suggestions?  Switch the lever on your ceiling fan so that it pushes the warm air down, open the drapes when the sun is shining brightly, and put fabric draft blockers at the bottom of doors (they come in creative varieties).

Winter may be coming, but with some simple planning, we can evade the draft!