Age of Champions – National Online Premiere!

22 Monday Apr 2013

Posted by Ann Napoletan in Events, Inspiration, Prevention, Smiles

I don’t know about anyone else, but I complain about my little mid-life aches and pains and whine about not having enough time to exercise (when the truth is, I just don’t want to exercise!). I’m definitely not feeling as young as I used to, and in the past year have started noticing things that had never bothered me before.

If any of this sounds familiar, you may need a dose of inspiration to get you up off the couch. The new PBS documentary, Age of Champions, fits the bill!

These folks are nothing short of amazing and just watching the trailer reminded me that at age 47, I have a whole life ahead of me! Age truly is a state of mind as these champions prove every day. The full documentary can be viewed free online between now and April 28 so be sure and check it out…

Blooms & Buds

15 Monday Apr 2013

Posted by Ann Napoletan in Grieving, Inspiration, Life After Caregiving, Mom, Ruminations, Smiles, Support system

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On Sunday, I visited Eason House. It had been a number of weeks since I’d done that. Last time was difficult, but at the same time, I really miss those wonderful ladies. As I neared the house, I noticed a beautiful weeping cherry and immediately thought of the one in my mom’s backyard. It had been a retirement gift and she just loved it. When I sold the house, it was blooming like mad…absolutely gorgeous.

Well, on a very cold day this winter, very shortly after Mom’s passing, a dear friend had one planted in my yard. I didn’t expect it to bud this year since it had just been planted in the latter part of December.

Imagine my surprise when I got home this afternoon and noticed that indeed, the buds were out. My little tree is full of new life, and mama is no doubt smiling down as she admires it.

Today marks four months since she left us. This little tree makes me think of her and smile.

Pat Summitt – CBS Interview

07 Sunday Apr 2013

Posted by Ann Napoletan in Books, Celebrities, Inspiration, Mom, Pat Summitt

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Those of us who have enjoyed women’s college basketball over the years know how special Pat Summitt is. As a coach, mentor, and someone who has always believed girls are capable of doing everything their male peers can do, Summitt has been an inspiration to millions. Mom always loved her.

Never was that more true than in the summer of 2011, when, at age 59, she announced she had been diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s. She, along with her incredible son, Tyler, were prepared to fight. They intended to do everything they could to bring awareness to the disease that has affected so many families. There was no self pity… just determination to go on with life and make a difference as they entered this unexpected new chapter in their lives.

Sum It Up, Coach Summitt’s third book with Sally Jenkins, is the story of resilience; from coaching to motherhood, and now her latest challenge, ALZ, this woman is tough as nails, yet as kind and compassionate as they come. Upon its release, Summitt’s memoir took its spot on the NY Times Best Seller List and has remained there since.

The basketball legend and her son were recently interviewed for a piece on CBS, and clearly, they continue to enlighten, inspire, and fight. Click here and take a few minutes to watch.