Inspire Me Today

Please join me on May 17th, 2008 as I am the featured Inspirational Luminary on InspireMeToday.com. If you missed it, simply click through and select "See who you've missed" and I'll be there!



Inspire Me Today™ is a website that provides the Best of the Best Inspiration Daily™-each day from a different Luminary. Enjoy a 10-minute podcast, a 30-minute audio feature, a 15-minute inspirational video, a personal story or just my quote of the day. It's easy. Just click on this link and be inspired! Thanks for joining me!



InspireMeToday.com

A day at the food bank

As the day started Sami arrived at the Food Bank, uncertain of what activities would be taking place.....


She signed in a the Volunteer desk and received her Funds for Food bank truck as a souvenir



She found herself having a lot of fun helping to repackage pepper from huge drums into smaller bags for distribution....700 pounds of pepper later (sorted with the help of friends) she finally took off her hair net.



A pleasant (and proud) surprise for mom and dad was later in the day when Sami and her friend Mollie announced they had used the souvenir bank as a collection bank and in just an hours time they had gathered enough money for the Food Bank to be able to provide 45 meals.

Way to go Sami and Mollie - you are a great team!





To learn more about our food bank, please visit: http://tafb.org/

Book clubs teaching kids the benefit of reading!

Sharing her joy of reading and gratitude, Sami was a special guest at the Parks Ice Skating Book Club.

She spoke about gratitude from one ice skater to another as the kids gathered around to listen and take part in the interactive presentation.

Way to go Sami! A big thanks to the Parks and Ms. Kathryn for her support.

What are you teaching your child?

"Can gratitude be taught? My answer is a resounding YES! Kids today are in the "I WANT MORE" generation and feel slighted by not having the latest cell phone or the coolest IPOD. Parents buy-into this.....read the rest of the article here:
http://www.beloblog.com/parent/2008/03/fish_sticks_boo.html

Written by Paige McCoy Smith of the "Not So Perfect Parent"
Good Morning Texas
WFAA, Channel 8 / Dallas

Sami at Fort Worth Academy

As March rolls in we find Sami sharing the gift of gratitude with children and adults around the country. This week she is preparing for her appearance on Good Morning Texas! Tune in Wednesday, March 12th at 9am to see Sami on Good Morning Texas with Paige McCoy Smith in the "Not So Perfect Parent" segment.

GMT sent a film crew to Sami's presentation at Fort Worth Academy last week.



We thank FWA for their graciousness in allowing us to share the gift of gratitude with their students. We look forward to returning soon!

For the latest news and happenings please visit: http://www.gratitudeforkids.com/

Congrats to Spike and Marie

Thank you to Children's University for allowing me to be part of the wedding of Spike and Marie. I have never been to a wedding before and for my first event to be a goats wedding....well, that is something I will remember forever. All the best to my friends at CU!

Looking forward to seeing you all again soon.

Hugs from Sami

Photo as Courtesy of the Star-Telegram

Sami in North Texas Kids Newspaper

We were excited to receive the March edition of North Texas Kids News and find a feature article about Sami and how she is teaching others about gratitude.

Her "Colors Decorate the World" project was included as well....here's to helping others!

Thank you Minette for being the wonderful person you are.

Read the article online at: http://www.northtexaskids.com/php/index.php or pick up your copy of North Texas Kids today!

What a great guy!

Sami was excited to speak on Bryan Dodge's "The Good Life Rules" radio show on Saturday, Feb 23rd. WBAP is fortunate to have such an amazing individual as part of their team.

The Good Life does RULE!

Thank you Bryan for a wonderful experience!

Kids are amazing!

Sami was very excited to be the kick off speaker for the Children's University Business Expo. Third thru sixth graders created a business, complete with business plan, products, business cards, etc. Amazing how when given the correct tools children can create beyond an adults imagination. Once the Expo got underway, Sami was able to mix and mingle with friends.

The school set up a table for Sami to show off her items and she spoke to the kids on how to build a business as a kid.

It is very encouraging to see educational environments where children are motivated, creative and having fun....they never know they are learning!

Congrats to Children's University for providing such an environment. We enjoyed our visit and look forward to returning again soon!

She's a networking fanatic!

It was the second Monday of the month and Sami completed all of her school work super early so she could do what she enjoys....network at the DFW PR event! Her fan base is growing by leaps and bounds!

First she met up with Patrick Dougher of The Implementers Corner radio show.

Then she networked a bit with Cheryl Jackson of the Giving Tree in Dallas.

All the while, photos were being snapped by "The Crazy Picture Guy"

http://www.crazypictureguy.com/
He's amazing...his work is amazing and most of all, he has a heart of gold and Sami said she was so honored to know that he was just a few steps away watching over her (thanks so much Scott!)

We'll see you all again next month!
Caryn

What an honor!

Today I received the most blessed of emails from Sherri Walker. She shared with me that I had been choosen for a special honor on her site...take a peek....

http://woman2womanlounge.wordpress.com/2008/02/13/caryn-gottlieb-fitzgerald/

Thank you Sherri! You are a blessing!

Caryn

"Fish Sticks" is book of the month!

We are excited to learn that "Fish Sticks, Books and Blue Jeans - Teaching kids to be thankful for everything (yes, even Fish Sticks) everyday!" has been selected as Book of the Month on the Woman2Woman Lounge!

Read all about it here:

http://www.freewebs.com/woman2womanlounge/bookofthemonth.htm

Sami's radio interviews now on press page!

Sami's interview from Impact Texas (99.5 the Wolf) and The Implementers Corner radio shows are now on Sami's press page at: http://www.samifitzgerald.com/presspage.htm

Happiness Is a Fish Stick

Have you noticed that this year we have a spate of books on happiness?

From Happier: Learn the Secrets to Daily Joy and Lasting Fulfillment by Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar to The How of Happiness: A Scientific Approach to Getting the Life You Want by Sonja Lyubominsky, there is an interesting trend to studying and somehow quantifying happiness. Is it like one of those pain charts in the hospital? When asked how happy we are, we will be able to point to the appropriate happy face representation on the happiness scale.


Marci Shimoff and Carol Kline have even boiled happiness down to 7 easy steps (Happy for No Reason: 7 Steps to Being Happy from the Inside Out). And why? Why is our pursuit of happiness (our right as Americans as set forth in the Constitution!) now taking a scientific turn? Is the hope to develop an easy answer? A happy pill? I wonder if we were truly happy, would we need to go search for ways to achieve happiness? Is it only the happy who get happier (like the rich get richer)? Then why aren’t we happy?


Daniel Gilbert, NPR correspondent, has written a book called The Geography of Bliss in which he travels to places around the world known to be the most and least happy. His findings are interesting. The extremely wealthy inhabitants of Qatar are unhappy but the impoverished Bhutanese are very happy. So maybe money makes you sad.


Gilbert interviewed an Icelander (happy place) about his belief in elves and the man replies, “I don’t know if I believe in them, but other people do and my life is richer for it.” So maybe being surrounded by elf-acolytes makes you happy.


Now before you turn off your computer, give away all your money and start searching your garden for elves, let’s think about what it may really take to be happy.


I think (in my non-scientific opinion) that people are happy when they are happy with what they have. I think people are happy when they believe in something bigger then themselves—when they are not the center of their own universe, when others are not looked at solely for comparison purposes, when satisfaction is achieved by competing with oneself and not by besting our neighbors.


Nothing ground-breaking there, but it is much easier said than done. So, aside from moving to Iceland or Bhutan, what are we to do? How do we find our own “happy place?”


Caryn Fitzgerald, mother of six-year old Sami, thinks her daughter has the key. Together, Caryn and Sami have written Fish Sticks, Books and Blue Jeans. It’s a gratitude workbook. Sami’s parents are network marketing professionals and they attend many motivational seminars and bring their daughter along. It was at these seminars that Sami was introduced to various motivational materials and one day asked her mother for a gratitude workbook appropriate for a child. When they couldn’t find one, Sami decided to write her own, after all, Sami said “Mr. Mark (referring to Mark Victor Hansen of the “Chicken Soup for the Soul” series) said ‘you can make it yourself’ so that’s what I’m going to do.”


Sami’s mom told me that what started as just a project for Sami, soon became much larger than either expected. Friends who were tired of hearing “Mommy buy me” started asking, “Please, can we have a copy?”


One thing led to another and now Fish Sticks, Books and Blue Jeans is available on Amazon.com. Sami does radio and television interviews and is currently on a book tour. Caryn shared what it’s like to watch Sami read from her book to a group of students and encouraging the kids to answer the questions—it quickly morphs into a lovely peer group. Sami does have one minor complaint. Sometimes her hand gets tired from signing so many autographs!


I’ll admit, I was a little leery when Caryn first contacted me. I’m not one for this type of book. You’ll find no copy of The Secret (book or dvd) at my house. “Put positive energy out into the universe” messages merely make me roll my eyes. But this was a little girl (and her mom is an MJM Yenta!) …so I set aside my snarkiness and looked at the book with an open heart.


I think there’s something to it. We could all benefit from focusing a little less on what we don’t have and a little more on what we do. And Sami’s book helps children focus daily on the good and happy already in their lives with affirmations like “Food nourishes my body. I deserve to give my body and mind nutritious food everyday.” And “Laughter makes me feel good. Some of the people or things that make me laugh are: (fill in the blank).” It’s truly a lovely idea beautifully executed. I recommend it for children (and their parents!)


It seems it took a 6-year old to uncover the secret to happiness—it’s not about elves or wealth, it’s about looking at the world in a positive way. As the Greek philosopher Epictetus said, “We are disturbed not by events, but by the views that we take of them.”

_________________

Meredith Jacobs is author of The Modern Jewish Mom's Guide to Shabbat (HarperCollins) and co-founder and editor of http://www.modernjewishmom.com/.

Another Fish Sticks Book Review....

Fish Sticks, Books and Blue Jeans! written by 6-year old home schooler Sami Fitzgerald and her mom Caryn, is a real gem. This young author has written a remarkable book, geared to kids aged 5 and older, designed to help children recognize the blessings that they have all around them and guide them though the process of being grateful.

The lessons are taught through fun and creative exercises, simple enough for the youngest child to grasp, yet challenging enough for an older child who needs some encouragement in the area of thankfulness. The exercises help children take the focus off of the things they find are lacking in their lives, and refocus their minds on the things they already have but may take for granted.

The concepts expressed in the book aren’t new. Many books have been written for adults using these same basic principles. Sami’s book, however, presents these concepts in a new way and makes them relevant to even little children. In fact, Sami’s book idea came from her desire to have a workbooks similar to ones that her parents had. When she realized that there weren’t any written for children, Sami decided to create her own.

If adults can grasp the lessons in this book, they could change their lives. If kids can grasp them, they could change the world.

Thanks, Sami, for reminding us to be thankful for everything (yes, even fish sticks) every day!

Anne Gebhart
Regional Director
Home Educators Alliance for Resources and Training of Texas, Inc
(HEART of Texas)
website: http://www.heartoftex.org/

Sami's first LIVE TV interview....

We are so excited to have spent the morning (albeit very early) on the Fox TV set of "Good Day" where Sami and I were interviewed (Sami's first LIVE show) by none other than Lari Barager! After our segment we were able to hang out in the main studio and watch the rest of the show LIVE!! Dan Godwin and Ron Jackson were fun to watch in person....so wild to see all the little things that have to be done to make the shows we watch happen! The morning was a blast...enjoy the photos!

The first shot of the day in the waiting area, amazing how kids can rise to the occasion and be awake at the crack of dawn if the media is calling, lol!

Dan Godwin, Sami, Lari Barager and Ron Jackson in the Fox 4 studio....

Sami announcing her presence on "Good Day"

Taking a moment before the interview to get comfy in the hosts chair....

Thank you to the Fox 4 - Dallas studio crew and personalities - we had an amazing time....

View the video online here: http://www.youtube.com/biogal364

Caryn & Sami

A wonderful surprise...

This arrived in our inbox .....a quote from Mark Yarnell and Valerie Bates...what a terrific surprise to see this endorsement in their newsletter.

"Excellent Children's Book by Holy Grail Associate Sami FitzGerald

Let's help our children frame their world in a very positive, gratefull light. We recommend a wonderful little booklet by 7-year-old Associate Sami FitzGerald,?"Fish Sticks, Books and Blue Jeans! -Teaching kids to be thankful for everything (yes, even fish sticks) every day!"?

Way to go Sami!"

Mark Yarnell and Valerie Bates
Co-Authors, Self-Wealth: Creating Prosperity, Serenity and Balance in Your Life
http://www.markyarnell.com/

Fish Sticks, Books and Blue Jeans--Guest Speaker Feb 3, 2007 @ MamasTimeOut.com

PRESS RELEASE FROM: MamasTimeOut.com

Join us for a Super Sunday at MamasTimeOut© this coming
Sunday @ 2:30pm MST/4:30pm EST.
We will be discussing Sami FitzGerald and Caryn Fitzgerald's new book for kids about gratitude, entitled, "Fish Sticks, Books and Blue Jeans".

Caryn and her daughter Sami co-authored this book to help children and parents appreciate the little things and achieve the big things in life.
Join us as we discuss how you can "encourage your children to dream BIG, not to be sidetracked by fear and to avoid the pitfall that many fall into in not realizing their child is "creating" daily."

Learn more about Caryn and Sami at the sites below:
http://www.CarynFitzGerald.com

http://www.SamiFitzGerald.com

Join us:
Sunday Feb 3, 2008 at 2:30 pm MST/4:30 pm EST
The call in number is (646) 595-4516
(you can also chat live for free by logging in here)

Planting Seeds of Gratitude with Debbi Chambers

What a beautiful year we are experiencing. Sami & I are traveling, sharing the gift of gratitude with children of all ages (that means adults too!) in schools, networking events, community functions, radio, newspaper and this weekend on Fox TV here in Dallas!

Last month, at the More Heart Than Talent Mindset Conference, Sami managed to spend some quality one-on-one time with Debbi Chambers…..by the time I returned, the power of intention had once again arrived as Sami and Debbi are now collaborating on a project for children entitled: "Gratitude Garden, Planting Seeds of Joy"

For those who may know Debbie Chambers….she is the creator of the “Manifesting Garden, Create Your Garden of Infinite Possibilities, A 45 Day Goal Achievement Adventure" we (Sami & I) both highly recommend the Manifesting Garden program, as it will change the way you focus on your goals and dreams in a very short period of time, only 45 days (New Years Eve seems like just yesterday, but we are actually 30 days into 2008).

We are very excited to watch another one of Sami's many creations come to life.

May your life continue to overflow with blessings as we journey through 2008.

Til’ next time,
Caryn

Sami on “The Implementers Corner” Radio Show

Getting up bright and early is not something a night owl normally does…but today was a special day and therefore Sami was up at the crack of dawn excited and ready to meet Pat Dougher for her interview on “The Implementers Corner” radio show.

Pat Dougher is a Ziglar Performance Group trained speaker who conducts workshops in schools, churches and organizations on Accelerated Learning, Processing Emotional Pain and Understanding Your Internal Motivational Gifts.

He is an incredible man, giving of himself and focused on serving others.

We are blessed to have him on our journey!

Click here to listen...

Til’ next time,
Caryn

Sami on the WOLF 99.5FM

Sami rocked along with radio personality Jon Griffin of 99.5 the WOLF and KLIF today in the studio. Jon interviewed Sami for 'Impact Texas' ....the radio show that highlights those making a difference right here in the Lone Star State.

It was fun and games when she arrived......

Then they went into interview mode and she was all business.....

and she closed out the event the only way she knew.....by showing off her WOLF spirit...

*Clothing by KaiaBells.com*

Sami interviewed by Artemis Limpert

Sami had the pleasure of being interviewed LIVE in front of 75+ business professionals at the home of Artemis Limpert today.

Sharing her story from the heart had the audience laughing and smiling along with her.

What an honor to be interviewed by one of the industry's best trainers and to be sharing a "stage" (in this case a living room) with Artemis and Jerry Clark.

Jerry made a point of letting the audience know he was the proud owner of an autographed copy of Sami's book - bringing a HUGE grin to Sami's face.

Thanks to all for a wonderful experience.

Sami in the Ft.Worth Business Press School Guide

What a pleasant surprise to open the Fort Worth Business Press and find a full page, color article with photo.....

What people are saying....

Here are some of the comments received about "Fish Sticks, Books and Blue Jeans." If you own a copy of the book, we'd love to hear your feedback....simply click the "comments" button and add your feedback.

Feedback can also be found on http://www.FishSticksBooksAndBlueJeans.com and on Amazon.com at:

http://www.amazon.com/Fish-Sticks-Books-Blue-Jeans/dp/0615179827/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1200103639&sr=1-1

***************************************************

Everything I need to know about happiness, I learned from a six-year-old. Fish Sticks, Books, and Blue Jeans, is a subtle and inspiring reminder to us all: If the only prayer you ever said was, "thank you," that would suffice.
Alexander J. Berardi
Bestselling author and host, CounterThink.TV

Bea Kunz of Petersburg, TN says, "I received the book today and am just delighted with it. Not that I doubted your claims , but, it really is so much more than I expected. It really does read like the thoughts of a very "tuned in" child, but still a child. My 6 year old grandson writes in a journal on a very regular basis. I know he is going to love and relate to Sami's book. Thanks for autographing it Sami....it's beautiful and so are you."


"Everyone in life is born to accomplish great things, some time between birth and adult we often forget the simple things and loose that great belief in ourselves. This wonderful book will help adults and children explore all that is fun and important in life. Better yet it is the perfect opportunity for parents and children to explore life together! You can achieve great things! Read on!" Says Ted Silverberg, President Biometics International Inc.


"Congratulations on a VERY IMPORTANT book for children....As a grandparent, I am amazed and overwhelmed by all the junk available and "so needed" to make life seem good/happy/complete.... Congratulations to Sami and her mom for working on making a "real" life filled with the pure joy of gratitude....Good luck!" Cornelia P.

Sami on Heal Yourself Talk Radio

What a blessing....Sami was interviewed by Rebecca White of Heal Yourself Talk Radio.

Listen to the interview online at:

http://healyourselftalk.com/fish-sticks-books-blue-jeans-with-sami-fitzgerald

Texas Star-Telegram features Sami!

We are so proud to see Sami featured in the Texas Star-Telegram....the 2nd largest newspaper in the Dallas/Fort Worth area.

Read the article online at:

http://www.star-telegram.com/metro_news/story/387460.html

Sami appears in 2008 New Years message....

Follow these tips and you’ll accomplish more in the next twelve months than you have in the past twelve years....Sami appears in Alexander J. Berardi, Bestselling author and host, CounterThink.TV, 2008 New Years message....


Watch the video online at: http://counterthink.tv/?p=58