My son does not write reviews. He is not big on writing. But, he sure loves the Viewpoints t-shirt that I got at the VP launch party in Chicago. In fact, he was wearing the shirt when he was carrying grills, gear, and a watermelon down to a party next to the river.

It was a beautiful day, but the river was way up. It's usually about knee deep but was like an ocean with muddy waves churning.

Another teen got caught in the current, and Eli went in and got the other boy out of the river. The current took them down the river, so I did not know if my kid or the other kid even made it out. I was up the hill grilling, and the message I got was, "Eli went in the river. They can't find him."

Under those circumstances, I can't tell you how much time passed. I was in shock but just praying. It was probably about a half hour when I flat didn't know one way or the other.

Eli did save the other kid. They are both fine. If you Google Bull Hole and Eli, you will probably find the stories. He made the papers.

I wanted to share that, and I'll send a picture of Eli in his VP shirt which I was thinking could be the last shot I'd ever have of my kid.

That's such a great story, Cyndi. Eli sounds like a terrific kid and I know you're proud of him.

--Bob

I have to second Cyndi that Eli is great--and his brother too. I got there after he got the boy to shore and he was on a cell phone speaking with the rescue dispatcher at the water's edge. Cool as a cucumer and only a teenager.

I give thumbs up and hugs to Gigi, Krista, Ladymagic, Chrissy, and yes, mike too. :P :D

Yes the stars shine bright on VP's  and I second Reviewer11's thumbs up some other favorite "stars" include Awlafon, this2shallpass, Meri and lilsquibb . . .now I have to go get my pay for putting in my 2 cents worth :) LOL 

lol!

OOh I agree too with LisaCarey. :D

I would have to add in here props to a new rising star Katrena!  Read her blog from today and you'll see she's getting published!  Congrats lady.

Congratulations, Cyndi, on having a son who is a hero. :)  Those few minutes, though, when you didn't know what happened,  a dread passes through you that is tough to describe.  Believe me, I know.

Hi Mike - Yes. I held it together, but I think I was in shock really. I'm still waking up thankful my boys are safe.

Lil - Katrena is my sis. You may know that. I say she's a hero to for working in the bone marrow unit. That's a tough area to nurse.

There are loads of heros here and in so many ways. When I get good info on a product and can make an informed decision on whether to buy or not, that helps so much esp in this economy.

Honestly I think my friends list is full of stars! I couldn't possibly pick them all down here each one of them have their own specialty from sharing unique information, to staying up and keeping me awake when I am working late at night (you know who you are). Even though I have been here a year there are many always willing to chip in a suggestion or thought and keep my on my toes or in the know!  So, looking for a list of stars? Visit my friends page and there they are!

LisaCarey said…

Honestly I think my friends list is full of stars! I couldn't possibly pick them all down here each one of them have their own specialty from sharing unique information, to staying up and keeping me awake when I am working late at night (you know who you are). Even though I have been here a year there are many always willing to chip in a suggestion or thought and keep my on my toes or in the know!  So, looking for a list of stars? Visit my friends page and there they are!

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Wow people do that... stay up late and all ;P

lilsquibb said…

I would have to add in here props to a new rising star Katrena!  Read her blog from today and you'll see she's getting published!  Congrats lady.

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Shucks--how sweet, Lilsquibb! Getting published this time was quite by accident but I'll admit I was quite thrilled to get that call. You do a great job on VP and always seem to be on top of things!

Wow Cyndi.  Thanks for sharing your story.  I got my Mommy chills for the day. Lisa I am so glad to be on your stars list since you're such a web celeb yourself!  I would have to include AnnaBanana on the stars list.  Her reviews are great but her taste tips will always make you hungry.

Oh thank you so much, Angela!  You're still my "Sound of Music" gal and for all you do to inspire adults and kiddies alike -- and for brightening the corner where you are -- you have earned a place on my personal "Stars" list too. 

You are all stars in my book.  There have been days when I was feeling down and I logged in to Viewpoints and found a sweet, inspiring or concerned note left in my inbox or posted on my profile page.  I have found friends, I have found counselors and I have found fun here at Viewpoints.  I have gained courage and insight from you.  I have had a few chuckles, been inspired and encouraged.  I love you all.  Thank-you for who you are and what you give here at Viewpoints.  One of my favorite quotes says, "We can't all be stars, but we can all twinkle."  There are even those who haven't been around Viewpoints much that have touched my life and for that I will always hold a special place in my heart.  Again, thank-you all. Here's to the Viewpoints community.

That's the way we all feel about you too, Meri!  The way this thread has been going reminds me of what MGM used to say about its actors -- "More stars than there are in Heaven!" 

Isn't it great how so many of us have come together on other social networking sites and have become a part of each other's lives?  All to the credit of Viewpoints!

I think she does also. She was very helpful when I came back on board. She has a way of writing, and I'm still learning. None of us ladies or gentlemen ever stay up late..lol

Hi CrystaBush,

What part of Detroit are you from? Are you close to Sterling Heights? Yes, this is a great place to come together, and get to know one another. I've always enjoyed coming here, but was kept awhile for a while due to health, then work.

AnnaBanana said…

That's the way we all feel about you too, Meri!  The way this thread has been going reminds me of what MGM used to say about its actors -- "More stars than there are in Heaven!" 

 

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That's a nice sentiment. Thanks for sharing it.

I think everyone on my friends list is a star in one way or another.  I have been at Viewpoints for almost a year and I have grown to know and love all of you.  I have learned what makes each person tick and what is special about them all.

Some are my late night buddies that always take the time for me no matter what.  Others are like family, there when I need an encouraging word, a listening ear, a warm email, etc.

Others are my cheering section.  Every time I get excited about something or I have a new project or a dance performance I can hear the people cheering me on.

Another group are my partners in crime, my personal entertainment committee and sometimes the very reason why I come here on some days.

Everyone who I have connected with publish awesome reviews, have given me a wealth of knowledge beyond textbooks and have made my shopping list a mile long at times.

And to all those that suffer or battle with an illness.  Thank you for taking the time out of your day to drop us a line.  Thanks for going the extra mile even when it hurt.

Many of us have become prayer warriors on the same team!  It doesn't matter if we are stars.  The fact is, we have become friends.

My motto at Viewpoints: Live, love, learn and laugh.

Two quotes in closing:

"Shoot for the moon and if you miss you'll fall among stars."

"Don't tell me the sky's the limit when there are footprints on the moon."

Love and hugs to you all!! ~the one and only Gigi girl ♥ 

Gigi said it all!  Amen.

Aw shucks Mama Meri!  I think I'm blushing.  You are too sweet for words.

I have been gone for so long and hope to catch up with my friends!

Welcome back, I was wondering about you.  Nice to hear from you again!

I totally agree, Gigi! You said it best! ♥ you Gigi Girl!!!

Stars?  Well the fame obsessed kind are rather dull, overly self centered, too selfish and often NOT all that.   

Of course everyone here.. is a bright light... shining some kind of truth, perspective, with a dash or two (or three) of personality to brighten each other's days and perhaps warm things up a bit.

Wonderfully stated and thanks for hanging out with us at the boards.