After the Show: Nate and Sherry Smalls

After the Show:Joy Radio Insights No Responses »
Oct 182011

Joy Radio was honored to interview Nate and Sherry Smalls, founders of Smalls Institute for Music and Youth Leadership on Saturday, October 15,2011. Their mission: To increase awareness for the arts by providing music instruction for piano, bass guitar, and percussion, as well as outreach programs and services to promote youth leadership.

Both Nate and Sherry have a background in music and their passion is to share ‘their passion’ of music with children, especially the less advantaged. For the past five years they have been teaching music in their home after school. With the purchase of their new bus they are hoping to take their musical talents on the road and offer them to the less fortunate in the rural areas of Charleston. Their 5 year and 10 year vision may revolutionize the after-school music and youth leadership programs for schools.

They are in need of instruments, donated food for  the children’s snacks after school and other items. Be sure and check out their upcoming fundraisers.

Wishing the Smalls much success on their journey.

Earth Angel:Dog Saves Toddler

Earth Angel Stories 2 Responses »
Aug 142011

Angels Found in the Tiniest of Creatures
by Jackie Haugh

In 1990, I was the mother of four very active children under the age of eight. My three daughters were old enough to know their boundaries, but not my two-year-old son.

One day, while I was busy cleaning the house, thinking all was well and safe with my babies, I heard the door bell ring. Opening the front door, I found a large, burly construction worker holding my little boy’s hand. Our neighbor down the street was in the middle of massive remodel and everyday Timmy would stare out the window and the watch the trucks go by.

“Lady, I think he belongs to you,” the gentleman said. “I can tell you have a bunch of kids by the balls scattered all over the lawn.” Continue reading »

Happy Birthday in Heaven, Pop

Reflections No Responses »
Jul 042011

Missing and reflecting on my Pop, my teacher, my hero, my friend today- his 87th.
July 4, 2011

Quoting him, 1986. Looking back, Charlie expressed gratitude for his life. “I
am a very lucky man. I have neat and hardworking children (7) and soon, 20
grandchildren, work I love, and a wonderful life. My friendships are especially
important to me. For a time I fumbled the ball, but they have given me a second
chance and I am grateful. Every day is full of adventure now. And I really don’t
need more than that.”

Happy Birthday, Pop. Miss you. Bet you are lighting the heavens on fire! And don’t worry about me, Pop. I’m never, never, never going to quit! Guess I’m a chop off the old block. Love your Bird-dog, Pattie
PS Would love to hear you sing one last time, “Thank Heaven for Little Girls.”

Mother's Day 2011: A Message from Above

Reflections 1 Response »
May 052011


Dear Mr. Hallmark, Sir:

I am writing to you from heaven,
And though it must appear
A rather strange idea,
I see everything from here.

I just popped in to visit
Your store to find a card-
A card of love for my Mom,
As this day for her is hard. Continue reading »

SPRINKLES OF JOY

Inspired by... No Responses »
Apr 032011


Joy is a state of happiness. With everything currently happening in the world – wars, tsunamis, earthquakes…  it feels like conversations are centered more on doom and gloom than on joy. A shift in consciousness can be created by showing up in our lives, and enjoying the simple pleasures our friends, family, community members, and animals have to offer.

I am blessed to live in a neighborhood filled with children. The main group, which I will call the “6 pack”, is constantly in my yard, telling me stories, and sharing their life experiences. They are so innocent, viewing life through kaleidoscopes filled with love, laughter, happiness, richness, beauty, and curiosity. Freedom is their playground. Living in the “now” is their dance. They are my joy teachers, awakening me to my child-like wonder. Continue reading »