Oscar Night and Sandra Bullock

I have to confess that I don't usually watch the awards shows, but this past Sunday I watched the Oscars. I was really pulling for Sandra Bullock to win an award for The Blind Side.

I watched the Barbara Walters special beforehand. In her interview with Bullock, Barbara commented that Sandra's parents were married for a very long time. Then she asked Sandra what she thought her mother would say about her nomination if she were still alive. Sandra responded that her mother would be mortified if there was a tear shed during her acceptance speech. She also said that her mom always worried that her kids would be normal. Her mother encouraged them not to be like everybody else, but to be original. What a gift.

I have to say I thought Sandra Bullock was a class act. Her dress was stunning. Her humility was clearly evident along with her sense of humor. Her acceptance speech was gracious. I loved the way Sandra talked about her mother, how her mom clearly protected her, taught her the importance of hard work, that everybody is important no matter who you are or where you come from and how to love.

I got kind of emotional when they showed her husband looking at her with adoration. You could so clearly see how proud he was of her.

When your children are grown, what do you hope they will say you taught them about life?

Michael Oher and The Blind Side

I watched 20/20 the other night to hear the real story behind The Blind Side. I loved the movie and read the book over the Christmas break. I am intrigued by this story. I know there are people all over the country who take kids in and try to help them have a better life. What I think is amazing about this story is how hard everybody worked to help Michael be successful...including Michael. He didn't look for someone to just hand him everything, he worked like crazy.

Why do you think some people are able to respond to opportunities like this while others walk away from it and get right back into the situation they were taken out of?

The Blind Side

Last weekend we went to see The Blind Side. What a great movie! I walked away with my head spinning. There were so many good messages and reminders in the movie.

I loved that this family was not afraid to take this young man in even though he didn't look like them and they were ridiculed by others for doing it. They took Michael in because it was the right thing to do.

I cried when Michael walked into his very own bedroom and told his adopted mom, "I've never had one before." She responded, "What, a room to yourself?" To which he replied, "No, a bed."

Once again, I was reminded of how blessed I am. I have never wanted for a bed to sleep in. I may have missed a meal or two, but it was probably more about losing weight than about not having food to eat.

My family has been there to support me through thick and thin - something I think you don't fully appreciate until you are grown and have a family of your own.

If you are looking for something to do over the Thanksgiving weekend, consider going to see the movie. It was a great reminder that even when things are chaotic and challenging, I have so much to be thankful for.

I am surrounded by many people who make my life rich and adventurous. I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving!