My Shining Star

Getting my sister, Lisa, ready for Clearbrook’s Shining Star ball was loads of fun.

From picking out favorite purple items (ranging from violet nail polish to Paul’s lavender bow tie) the festivities were all about Lisa. And she loved it.

We tried a few hairstyles in some test drives…experimenting with curls but I’ll say Lisa’s held together a lot better than mine, given her naturally wavy tresses.

Lisa loved her purple crystal headbands, and we decided she could double up and wear two. Why not? She looked sparkly and pretty all night long and enjoyed all the superlatives she received about her fancy outfit. A far cry from her usual attire (same for Paul and I). We all favor comfy clothes, and I think the last time Paul wore a tux was at our wedding…and that was…um…let me do the math. Carry the one, add a five, divide by…oh yah! Nearly 45 years ago!

We had a grand time at the gala, supporting our friends and family at Clearbrook.

Lisa was featured in a wonderful video used to tell her story and that of another client, Kyle – highlighting Clearbrook’s impact. (Some of you might’ve seen it already as I shared on some of my social media channels.)

It’s only six minutes long…please take a look if you have time…including the sweetest moment captured at the end. Sisters wrapping each other in a hug…grateful to all who support the oh-so worthy Clearbrook organization. Your generosity would be welcome anytime…here’s a link to learn more.

Lisa knows many of my “writer friends” are in her corner, cheering her on. She adores the messages and hugs I pass along and darn if she doesn’t keep track of who’s who and where you’re all from…all around the world.

Yep. I’m talking about YOU.

The dear human receiving this message right now, through a screen.

Your kindness matters.

Vicki 💝

P.S. My novel “Slivers” is in pre-order and I couldn’t be more excited. If you missed last week’s news, here’s a link with all the details to order directly from my terrific publisher, Eckhartz Press. Books will ship in a few weeks…and I’m honored by your interest in my spooky story. Friends in the Chicago area…be on the lookout for your launch party invitation. Coming soon!


Hi – I’m Victoria, Vicki, Dr. Vicki. I hold a doctorate in Adult Education and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), and author of Surviving Sue and Slivers.

Check out this link to learn more about my book “Surviving Sue” – all about resilience and love. Check out this link to pre-order “Slivers”…a ghost story with surprising twists.



58 responses to “My Shining Star”

  1. Love it Vicki ❤️
    It sounds like an emotional, joyous day. 🥰

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Margaret…it was…and Lisa’s still riding high, enjoying the attention but even more so? She feels like she’s contributing to the cause by sharing her story about Clearbrook’s impact. Thank you so much. 💜😊💜

      Liked by 1 person

  2. No wonder purple is Lisa’s favorite color–she looks fabulous in it! And she sparkled it at the gala. Both of you were elegant. That video is so compelling.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Thank you so much, Joy. I will share with Lisa…means so much to her…all of this support and love. Xo! 💜😉💜

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  3. What a perfect role for Lisa. She glows with enthusiasm. What a breath of fresh air in that smile! Clearbrook could be a model for the level of care necessary but lacking for so many people. I know you must be so happy for her and her accomplishments. You are fortunate to have each other. ❤️ (Both of you looked so beautiful for this special occasion!)

    Liked by 1 person

    1. You are so dear, Maggie. Thank you! Glows…yes! She sure does. Sending much love to you! 💜😉💜

      Liked by 1 person

  4. Lovely post, Vicki! Sounds like a truly memorable event for Lisa, you, and other attendees!

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    1. Thank you so much, Dave! 💜😉💜

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  5. I just watched the Clearbrook video featuring your sister Lisa, and Kyle, Vicki.

    You have done so many things of value in your life, that I sometimes lose focus on your role as a lifelong champion for your sister and your hand in the survival and prosperity of Clearbrook.

    It strikes me that if you do nothing else in your life, you will have accomplished more in your role as sister than most of us could accomplish in 10 lifetimes.

    I am humbled and proud to call you my friend. Thank you, Vicki.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Oh my goodness. I’m not sure ‘thank you’ is enough for the praise you offer. I’ve been lucky in so many ways to be Lisa’s sister. Grateful to you for your kindness, dear Dr. Stein. I’m honored to call you friend as well. 💜😊💜

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  6. oh, Vicki! this is so wonderful. I love you getting ready for the big occasion and yes, of course wear both headbands, and girl can never have too many sparkles, I always say. the 3 of you all looked fantastic and it’s fun to get dressed once in a while. the video was amazing and brought to happy tears, Lisa has truly found her home and she has brought such joy there, she is perfect in the video and I can see why they all love her! now she can add ‘movie star’ to her resume!!

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    1. Beth! I will give Lisa your love…and I felt the same way! They captured her joy – sitting at the front desk – loving on her people. I know you understand…both my dad, Sonny and mom, Sue, would be beyond proud of all that Lisa’s accomplished – thanks to Clearbrook. Hugs, hugs, hugs! 😊💜😊

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  7. Lisa is a vision in purple, Vicki. You and Paul look wonderful and dapper too. I love that they have this event to bring people together for a great cause. Lisa’s video was lovely too. 💕

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    1. Appreciate are you for all of your support — thank you for the love across a few platforms!!! Xo! 😘💜😘

      Liked by 1 person

  8. Aww Vicki what a beautiful post .
    I am so happy that Lisa has a safe happy space as well as a purpose.
    You all look amazing and glamourous for the event and Lisa really suits purple.
    Lots of love to you all and thank you for sharing this heartwarming post ❤️🥰❤️

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Lisa adores you…me, too! Xo, Maggie!
      😘💜😘

      Liked by 1 person

  9. Doing the right thing – what an incredible video for an amazing organization. All that you’ve done to support them and Lisa is clearly right in the sweet spot of doing the right thing. I loved, loved, loved seeing you all dressed up for the ball. Incredible!! ❤ ❤ ❤

    Liked by 1 person

    1. You are so sweet…thank you, Wynne. Honestly, I don’t do that much. Just standing in awe of all the good surrounding Lisa…with gratitude. Appreciate you! I will tell Lisa you…plus Mr. D….Miss O…Cooper and Simone say hello! (She loves all of your weekly pics!) xoxoxo! 💜😊💜

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      1. Okay – it’s unlike you to tell a fib so early on Sunday. You do a ton!! So grateful for you and your huge helping heart! ❤ ❤ ❤

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        1. You’re making me giggle. Fib on a Sunday – perish the thought! Spoken like a girl who knows me. Love you oodles, Mary Wynne! 💜😊💜

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  10. What a beautiful affirmation and event celebrating Lisa, Vicky. I love the video which is so compelling and heartfelt. Thank Lisa too for sharing her courage and resiliency. You both look stunning and I’m glad you had so much fun. 💕💗🙌🏽

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Cindy! Thank you so much! I will share your kind words with Lisa — she’ll love every bit— just as I do! 💜😉💜

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  11. Just for the record, I would wear two crystal purple headbands in a heartbeat! And don’t think I’m kidding! I love the color purple too. 💜💜 I did get that social media chance to see the video and it was a BEAUTIFUL, thoughtful story on Miss Lisa and how much she has grown. It brings a tear to my eye that organizations like this can provide so much. You rocked your outfit as well Vicki! What a glamorous evening. I love how Lisa takes it all in from around the world. Just keep smiling, Lisa – you are a shining star, girl! 🌠🌟

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Melanie! Thank you for all of the support and smiles! Lisa will love your endorsement of two headbands – and your shared love of purple. Sending loads and loads of love to you!!!
      😉💜😉

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      1. Well, thanks for the smiles today just thinking of a family event that surrounded Lisa with extra love. Hugs for all! 💝😘💝

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        1. Received!!! Adore you! Xo! ❤️😘❤️

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  12. Lisa is positively beautiful wearing her purple attire!! Congrats to new job skills and becoming healthy through weight loss – so very proud of dear Lisa! Sending her hugs from Texas! ❤️❤️❤️

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Mary!!! Thank you so much! Love and hugs from Lisa and I both! 😉💜😉

      Like

  13. It’s wonderful that Lisa was honored, Vicki, and you told us about it in such a fabulous post!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Tim…thank you so much! 😉💜😉

      Liked by 1 person

      1. My pleasure, Vicki. 😍

        Liked by 1 person

  14. Tell Lisa hi from me and that I am so impressed with the job she is doing — and you. The video made me cry.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Oh sweetie! I will absolutely tell her you said hello! Thank you so much, Elizabeth. Xo! 😉💜😉

      Like

  15. Here’s to all the folks at Clearbrook who are improving lives. The video was so touching. How can we not be moved by those who feel good about themselves because they are contributing to society in meaningful ways? I can also feel the joy from the families too. Lisa is so professional. We’re proud of you, Lisa, for your courage.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Oh, Pete…appreciate you! I will share your beautiful, kind words with Lisa. Thank you!!! 💜😉💜

      Liked by 1 person

  16. I enjoyed the video seeing Lisa in action at the front desk and then the excellent snippets about how the job unfolded for her. Also, my heart so filled to see Cinderella’s sprakle in purple.

    xxx💝😊

    PS I am behind in blog visiting and getting caught up a bit today and I am so excited that Silvers is in pre-order. I look forward to this book.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Much love!!! 😉💜😉

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  17. Amazing! Vicki, both you and Lisa and the most incredible human being, each shining your light in the world in your own unique ways! All three of you look just stunning, and purple is definitely Lisa’s color! 💜

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Love you, Erin! 😉💜😉

      Liked by 1 person

  18. Looks like a terrific event, and you, Paul and Lisa are a fine looking bunch!

    Thanks for sharing that wonderful video, Vicki. It was so wonderful to see and hear both you and sweet Lisa.

    💖

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Love you, dear Michelle! 😉💜😉

      Liked by 1 person

  19. I am in tears as I write this. What an amazing job Clearbrook does for all their people. Wow!
    Lisa… you looked so beautiful dressed all in purple. 💜 Tell your sister she looked great too!
    Wish I could be there to hug both of you.
    Tears are still flowing, Vicki Lou!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Oh sweetie! You are the best! Lisa will love your message. Thank you for being you, Nancy Lou…you with your big heart. Much love!!!!😉💜😉

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  20. I had to come back to tell you that the video brought me to tears… 💜

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thank you, dear one. Means a lot…can’t begin to tell you how much! ❤️

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  21. This is so fantastic!! Lisa is so beautiful and sparkly in purple! 💜✨And she sounds so professional at work. Thank you for sharing this wonderful video, and all the good work that Clearbrook has done! I hope donations flood in to help this organization continue doing such good work. Oof, tears of joy for you all…. Lisa is such an inspiration, and so are you Vicki!! Love you all so much!!💜💜

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Rose! We love you right back! I’m sharing all of these sweet messages with Lisa – telling her what I love about each of my “writer friends” and she can’t get over how many kind people we have around us. Last night she said, “more family…just like my Clearbrook family” when I told her about yesterday’s comments. She’ll love this big hug from you! Just as I do. xoxoxox! 💜😊💜

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  22. What a great organization and event. I’ve always been a sucker for purple!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Awwww…..thank you, Mark! 😊💜😊

      Liked by 1 person

  23. Ahh, I missed this post this weekend, but what a great way to start the week. Some good news. Love how you guys are such strong advocates for Clearbrook. And you all look so dapper! A far cry from your usual attire. I thought you guys wore black tie and ballroom dresses all the time . . . especially for the launch of Slivers! Ha, ha.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. You are sooooo funny! Yep…ball gowns and tuxes every day, LOL! Thanks so much, Brian! 😉💜😉

      Liked by 1 person

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