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The Trouble Tree
By : Author Unknown The carpenter I hired to help me restore an old farmhouse had just finished a rough first day on the job. A flat tire made him lose an hour of work, his electric saw quit, and now his ancient pickup truck refused to start.
While I drove him home, he sat in stony silence. On arriving, he invited me in to meet his family. As we walked toward the front door, he paused briefly at a small tree, touching tips of the branches with both hands.
When opening the door, he underwent an amazing transformation. His tanned face was wreathed in smiles and he hugged his two small children and gave his wife a kiss. Afterward he walked me to the car. We passed the tree and my curiosity got the better of me. I asked him about what I had seen him do earlier. Oh, that's my trouble tree," he replied. "I know I can't help having troubles on the job, but one thing's for sure, troubles don't belong in the house with my wife and the children. So I just hang them up on the tree every night when I come home. Then in the morning I pick them up again." "Funny thing is," he smiled, "when I come out in the morning to pick 'em up, there ain't nearly as many as I remember hanging up the night before.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Link here is
this one. Please let me know if you got in, Betty, by leaving a comment, and thanks. Dont know what has went wrong.
Sunny
Sunny
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Lunch with God:
Twinkies and Root Beer
A little boy wanted to meet God. He knew it was a long trip to where God lived, so he packed his suitcase with Twinkies and a six-pack of Root Beer and he started his journey.
When he had gone about three blocks, he met an elderly man. The man was sitting in the park just feeding some pigeons.
The boy sat down next to him and opened his suitcase. He was about to take a drink from his root beer when he noticed that the man looked hungry, so he offered him a Twinkie.
The man gratefully accepted it and smiled at boy. His smile was so pleasant that the boy wanted to see it again, so he offered him a root beer.
Again, the man smiled at him. The boy was delighted! They sat there all afternoon eating and smiling, but they never said a word.
As it grew dark, the boy realized how tired he was and he got up to leave, but before he had gone more than a few steps, he turned around, ran back to the man, and gave him a hug. The man gave him his biggest smile ever.
When the boy opened the door to his own house a short time later, his mother was surprised by the look of joy on his face. She asked him, "What did you do today that made you so happy?
"He replied, "I had lunch with God." But before his mother could respond, he added, "You know what? God's got the most beautiful smile I've ever seen!"
Meanwhile, the elderly man, also radiant with joy, returned to his home. His son was stunned by the look of peace on his face and he asked," Dad, what did you do today that made you so happy?"
He replied, "I ate Twinkies in the park with God." However, before his son responded, he added," You know, he's much younger than I expected."
Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around. People come into our lives for a reason, a season, or a lifetime. Embrace all equally!
~author unknown~
Send this to people who have touched your life in a special way. Let them know how important they are. Have lunch with God!
And .......Thanks for touching my life
A little boy wanted to meet God. He knew it was a long trip to where God lived, so he packed his suitcase with Twinkies and a six-pack of Root Beer and he started his journey.
When he had gone about three blocks, he met an elderly man. The man was sitting in the park just feeding some pigeons.
The boy sat down next to him and opened his suitcase. He was about to take a drink from his root beer when he noticed that the man looked hungry, so he offered him a Twinkie.
The man gratefully accepted it and smiled at boy. His smile was so pleasant that the boy wanted to see it again, so he offered him a root beer.
Again, the man smiled at him. The boy was delighted! They sat there all afternoon eating and smiling, but they never said a word.
As it grew dark, the boy realized how tired he was and he got up to leave, but before he had gone more than a few steps, he turned around, ran back to the man, and gave him a hug. The man gave him his biggest smile ever.
When the boy opened the door to his own house a short time later, his mother was surprised by the look of joy on his face. She asked him, "What did you do today that made you so happy?
"He replied, "I had lunch with God." But before his mother could respond, he added, "You know what? God's got the most beautiful smile I've ever seen!"
Meanwhile, the elderly man, also radiant with joy, returned to his home. His son was stunned by the look of peace on his face and he asked," Dad, what did you do today that made you so happy?"
He replied, "I ate Twinkies in the park with God." However, before his son responded, he added," You know, he's much younger than I expected."
Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around. People come into our lives for a reason, a season, or a lifetime. Embrace all equally!
~author unknown~
Send this to people who have touched your life in a special way. Let them know how important they are. Have lunch with God!
And .......Thanks for touching my life
EggsTop Stories |
Kind of dangerous to eat or drink anything now, isnt it?
Farms recalling eggs share suppliers, other ties
NEW! August 22, 2010 5:09 PM EDT
WASHINGTON (AP) — Two Iowa farms that recalled more than a half-billion eggs linked to as many as 1,300 cases of salmonella poisoning share suppliers of chickens and feed as well as ties to an Iowa business routinely cited for violating state and federal law.
Food and Drug Administration investigators have yet to determine the cause of the salmonella outbreaks at Wright County Egg and Hillandale Farms. The FDA investigation could take months, and sources of contamination are often difficult to find.
The number of illnesses, which can be life-threatening, especially to those with weakened immune systems, is expected to increase. The most common symptoms are diarrhea, abdominal cramps and fever eight to 72 hours of eating a contaminated product.
The company Quality Egg supplies young chickens and feed to both Wright County Egg and Hillandale Farms. The two share other suppliers, said Jewanna Porter, a spokeswoman for the egg industry, but she did not name them.
The egg industry has consolidated over recent years, placing fewer, larger businesses in control over much of the nation's egg supply to consumers.
The salmonella outbreak has raised questions about federal inspections of egg farms. The FDA oversees inspections of shell eggs, while the Agriculture Department is in charge of inspecting other egg products.
William D. Marler, a Seattle attorney for a person who filed suit alleging illness from tainted eggs in a salad at a restaurant in Kenosha, Wis., said Sunday his firm has been retained by two dozen families and was representing a woman who was hospitalized in California.
"The history of ignoring the law makes the sickening of 1,300 and the forced recall of 550 million eggs shockingly understandable," Marler said in an e-mail to The Associated Press. "You have to wonder where the USDA and FDA inspectors were."
Businessman Austin "Jack" DeCoster owns Wright County Egg and Quality Egg. Wright County Egg recalled 380 million eggs Aug. 13 after it was linked to more than 1,000 cases of salmonella poisoning. A week later, Hillandale Farms recalled 170 million eggs.
DeCoster is no stranger to controversy in his food and farm operations:
—In 1994, the state of Iowa assessed at least four separate penalties against DeCoster Farms for environmental violations, many of them involving hog waste.
—In 1997, DeCoster Egg Farms agreed to pay $2 million in fines to settle citations brought in 1996 for health and safety violations at DeCoster's farm in Turner, Maine. The nation's labor secretary at the time, Robert Reich, said conditions were "as dangerous and oppressive as any sweatshop." Reich's successor, Alexis Herman, called the state of the farms "simply atrocious," citing unguarded machinery, electrical hazards, exposure to harmful bacteria and other unsanitary conditions.
—In 2000, Iowa designated DeCoster a "habitual violator" of environmental regulations for problems that included hog manure runoff into waterways. The label made him subject to increased penalties and prohibited him from building new farms.
—In 2002, the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission announced a more than $1.5 million settlement of an employment discrimination lawsuit against DeCoster Farms on behalf of Mexican women who reported they were subjected to sexual harassment, including rape, abuse and retaliation by some supervisory workers at DeCoster's Wright County plants.
—In 2007, 51 workers were arrested during an immigration raid at six DeCoster egg farms. His farms had been the subject of at least three previous raids.
—In June 2010, Maine Contract Farming, the successor company to DeCoster Egg Farms, agreed in state court to pay $25,000 in penalties and to make a one-time payment of $100,000 to the Maine Department of Agriculture over animal cruelty allegations that were spurred by a hidden-camera investigation by an animal welfare organization.
In a statement issued Sunday, Wright County Egg spokeswoman Hinda Mitchell said: "When issues have been raised about our farms, our management team has addressed them swiftly and effectively, working with recognized outside experts to identify and establish corrective measures for our operations. We are approaching our work with FDA in the same forthright manner."
Wright County Egg also faces a lawsuit from food distributor Dutch Farms alleging that the company used unauthorized cartons to package and sell eggs under its brand without its knowledge.
The CDC said last week that investigations by 10 states since April have identified 26 cases where more than one person became ill. Preliminary information showed that Wright was the supplier in at least 15 of those cases.
Farms recalling eggs share suppliers, other ties
NEW! August 22, 2010 5:09 PM EDT
WASHINGTON (AP) — Two Iowa farms that recalled more than a half-billion eggs linked to as many as 1,300 cases of salmonella poisoning share suppliers of chickens and feed as well as ties to an Iowa business routinely cited for violating state and federal law.
Food and Drug Administration investigators have yet to determine the cause of the salmonella outbreaks at Wright County Egg and Hillandale Farms. The FDA investigation could take months, and sources of contamination are often difficult to find.
The number of illnesses, which can be life-threatening, especially to those with weakened immune systems, is expected to increase. The most common symptoms are diarrhea, abdominal cramps and fever eight to 72 hours of eating a contaminated product.
The company Quality Egg supplies young chickens and feed to both Wright County Egg and Hillandale Farms. The two share other suppliers, said Jewanna Porter, a spokeswoman for the egg industry, but she did not name them.
The egg industry has consolidated over recent years, placing fewer, larger businesses in control over much of the nation's egg supply to consumers.
The salmonella outbreak has raised questions about federal inspections of egg farms. The FDA oversees inspections of shell eggs, while the Agriculture Department is in charge of inspecting other egg products.
William D. Marler, a Seattle attorney for a person who filed suit alleging illness from tainted eggs in a salad at a restaurant in Kenosha, Wis., said Sunday his firm has been retained by two dozen families and was representing a woman who was hospitalized in California.
"The history of ignoring the law makes the sickening of 1,300 and the forced recall of 550 million eggs shockingly understandable," Marler said in an e-mail to The Associated Press. "You have to wonder where the USDA and FDA inspectors were."
Businessman Austin "Jack" DeCoster owns Wright County Egg and Quality Egg. Wright County Egg recalled 380 million eggs Aug. 13 after it was linked to more than 1,000 cases of salmonella poisoning. A week later, Hillandale Farms recalled 170 million eggs.
DeCoster is no stranger to controversy in his food and farm operations:
—In 1994, the state of Iowa assessed at least four separate penalties against DeCoster Farms for environmental violations, many of them involving hog waste.
—In 1997, DeCoster Egg Farms agreed to pay $2 million in fines to settle citations brought in 1996 for health and safety violations at DeCoster's farm in Turner, Maine. The nation's labor secretary at the time, Robert Reich, said conditions were "as dangerous and oppressive as any sweatshop." Reich's successor, Alexis Herman, called the state of the farms "simply atrocious," citing unguarded machinery, electrical hazards, exposure to harmful bacteria and other unsanitary conditions.
—In 2000, Iowa designated DeCoster a "habitual violator" of environmental regulations for problems that included hog manure runoff into waterways. The label made him subject to increased penalties and prohibited him from building new farms.
—In 2002, the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission announced a more than $1.5 million settlement of an employment discrimination lawsuit against DeCoster Farms on behalf of Mexican women who reported they were subjected to sexual harassment, including rape, abuse and retaliation by some supervisory workers at DeCoster's Wright County plants.
—In 2007, 51 workers were arrested during an immigration raid at six DeCoster egg farms. His farms had been the subject of at least three previous raids.
—In June 2010, Maine Contract Farming, the successor company to DeCoster Egg Farms, agreed in state court to pay $25,000 in penalties and to make a one-time payment of $100,000 to the Maine Department of Agriculture over animal cruelty allegations that were spurred by a hidden-camera investigation by an animal welfare organization.
In a statement issued Sunday, Wright County Egg spokeswoman Hinda Mitchell said: "When issues have been raised about our farms, our management team has addressed them swiftly and effectively, working with recognized outside experts to identify and establish corrective measures for our operations. We are approaching our work with FDA in the same forthright manner."
Wright County Egg also faces a lawsuit from food distributor Dutch Farms alleging that the company used unauthorized cartons to package and sell eggs under its brand without its knowledge.
The CDC said last week that investigations by 10 states since April have identified 26 cases where more than one person became ill. Preliminary information showed that Wright was the supplier in at least 15 of those cases.
C/ped from my friend, Myra,
who posted it on the Club House Message Board on aimoo. I really enjoyed this as I am sure you will also.
Sunny
Sunny
They told me the big black Lab's name was Reggie,
as I looked at him lying in his pen.. The shelter was
clean, no-kill, and the people really friendly.
I'd only been in the area for six months, but everywhere
I went in the small college town, people were welcoming and open
as I looked at him lying in his pen.. The shelter was
clean, no-kill, and the people really friendly.
I'd only been in the area for six months, but everywhere
I went in the small college town, people were welcoming and open
Everyone waves when you pass them on the
street.
But something was still missing as I attempted to
settle in to my new life here, and I thought a dog
couldn't hurt. Give me someone to talk to.
And I had just seen Reggie's advertisement on the local
news. The shelter said they had received numerous
calls right after, but they said the people who had come
down to see him just didn't look like "Lab
people," whatever that meant. They must've
thought I did.
But at first, I thought the shelter had misjudged me
in giving me Reggie and his things, which consisted of a dog pad,
street.
But something was still missing as I attempted to
settle in to my new life here, and I thought a dog
couldn't hurt. Give me someone to talk to.
And I had just seen Reggie's advertisement on the local
news. The shelter said they had received numerous
calls right after, but they said the people who had come
down to see him just didn't look like "Lab
people," whatever that meant. They must've
thought I did.
But at first, I thought the shelter had misjudged me
in giving me Reggie and his things, which consisted of a dog pad,
bag of toys almost all of which were brand new tennis
balls, his dishes, and a sealed letter from his previous
owner. See, Reggie and I didn't really hit it off
when we got home. We struggled for two weeks (which is
how long the shelter told me to give him to adjust to his
new home). Maybe it was the fact that I was trying to
adjust, too. Maybe we were too much alike.
For some reason, his stuff (except for the tennis
balls --- he wouldn't go anywhere without two stuffed in
his mouth) got tossed in with all of my other unpacked
boxes. I guess I didn't really think he'd need
all his old stuff, that I'd get him new things once he
settled in. But it became pretty clear pretty soon
that he wasn't going to.
I tried the normal commands the shelter told me he
knew, ones like "sit" and "stay" and
"come" and "heel," and he'd follow
them - when he felt like it. He never really seemed to
listen when I called his name --- sure, he'd look in my
direction after the fourth or fifth time I said it, but then
he'd just go back to doing whatever. When I'd
ask again, you could almost see him sigh and then grudgingly
obey.
This just wasn't going to work. He chewed a
couple shoes and some unpacked boxes. I was a little
too stern with him and he resented it, I could tell.
The friction got so bad that I couldn't wait for the two
weeks to be up, and when it was, I was in full-on search
mode for my cell phone amid all of my unpacked stuff. I
remembered leaving it on the stack of boxes for the guest
room, but I also mumbled, rather cynically, that the
"damn dog probably hid it on me."
Finally I found it, but before I could punch up the
shelter's number, I also found his pad and other toys
from the shelter...I tossed the pad in Reggie's
direction and he snuffed it and wagged, some of the most
enthusiasm I'd seen since bringing him home. But
then I called, "Hey, Reggie, you like that? Come
here and I'll give you a treat." Instead, he
sort of glanced in my direction --- maybe "glared"
is more accurate --- and then gave a discontented sigh and
flopped down. With his back to me.
Well, that's not going to do it either, I
thought. And I punched the shelter phone number.
But I hung up when I saw the sealed envelope. I
had completely forgotten about that, too. "Okay,
Reggie," I said out loud, "let's see if
your previous owner has any advice.".... .....
____________ _________ _________ _________
To
Whoever Gets My Dog:
Well, I can't say that I'm
happy you're reading this, a letter I told the shelter
could only be opened by Reggie's new owner.
I'm not even happy writing it. If you're
reading this, it means I just got back from my last car ride
with my Lab after dropping him off at the shelter. He
knew something was different. I have packed up his pad
and toys before and set them by the back door before a trip,
but this time... it's like he knew something was
wrong. And something is wrong...which is why I have
to go to try to make it right.
So let me tell you about my Lab in the hopes that it
will help you bond with him and he with
you.
First, he loves tennis balls.
The more the merrier. Sometimes I think he's part
squirrel, the way he hordes them. He usually always
has two in his mouth, and he tries to get a third in
there. Hasn't done it yet. Doesn't
matter where you throw them, he'll bound after it, so be
careful - really don't do it by any roads.. I made
that mistake once, and it almost cost him
dearly.
Next, commands. Maybe the shelter staff
already told you, but I'll go over them
again: Reggie knows the obvious ones ---
"sit," "stay," "come," "heel." He knows hand signals:
"back" to turn around and go back when you put
your hand straight up; and "over" if you put your
hand out right or left. "Shake" for shaking
water off, and "paw" for a high-five. He
does "down" when he feels like lying down --- I bet
you could work on that with him some more. He knows
"ball" and "food" and "bone"
and "treat" like nobody's
business.
I trained Reggie with small food
treats. Nothing opens his ears like little pieces
of hot dog.
Feeding schedule: twice a day,
once about seven in the morning, and again at six in
the evening. Regular store-bought stuff; the shelter
has the brand.
He's up on his shots.
Call the clinic on 9th Street and update his info with
yours; they'll make sure to send you reminders for when
he's due. Be forewarned: Reggie hates the
vet. Good luck getting him in the car --- I don't
know how he knows when it's time to go to the vet, but
he knows.
Finally, give him some time.
I've never been married, so it's only been Reggie
and me for his whole life. He's gone everywhere
with me, so please include him on your daily car rides if
you can. He sits well in the backseat, and he
doesn't bark or complain. He just loves to be
around people, and me most especially.
Which means that this transition is
going to be hard, with him going to live with someone
new.
And that's why I need to share
one more bit of info with you.....
His name's not
Reggie.
I don't know what made me do it, but
when I dropped him off at the shelter, I told them
his name was Reggie. He's a smart dog, he'll get used to it
and will respond to it, of that I have no
doubt. But I just couldn't bear to give them his
real name. For me to do that, it seemed so final, that
handing him over to the shelter was as good as me admitting
that I'd never see him again. And if I end up
coming back, getting him, and tearing up this letter, it
means everything's fine. But if someone else is
reading it, well .... well it means that his new owner should
know his real name. It'll help you bond with
him. Who knows, maybe you'll even notice a change
in his demeanor if he's been giving you
problems.
His real name is "Tank".
Because that is what I
drive.
Again, if you're reading this
and you're from the area, maybe my name has been on the
news. I told the shelter that they couldn't make
"Reggie" available for adoption until they
received word from my company commander. See, my
parents are gone, I have no siblings, no one I could've
left Tank with ... and it was my only real request of the
Army upon my deployment to Iraq , that they make one phone...
call the shelter ... in the "event" ... to tell
them that Tank could be put up for adoption. Luckily,
my colonel is a dog guy, too, and he knew where my platoon
was headed. He said he'd do it
personally. And if you're reading this, then
he made good on his word.
Well, this letter is getting downright depressing,
even though, frankly, I'm just
writing it for my dog. I couldn't imagine if I was
writing it for a wife and kids and family ... but still,
Tank has been my family for the last six years, almost as
long as the Army has been my family.
And now I hope and pray that you
make him part of your family and that he will adjust and
come to love you the same way he loved me.
That unconditional love from a dog
is what I take with me to Iraq as an inspiration to do
something selfless, to protect innocent people from those
who would do terrible things ... and to keep those terrible
people from coming over here. If I have to give up Tank
in order to do it, I am glad to have done so. He is
my example of service and of love. I hope I honored
him by my service to my country and comrades.
All right, that's enough.
I deploy this evening and have to drop this letter off at
the shelter. I don't think I'll say another
good-bye to Tank, though. I cried too much the first
time. Maybe I'll peek in on him and see if he
finally got that third tennis ball in his
mouth.
Good luck with Tank. Give him
a good home, and give him an extra kiss goodnight - every
night - from me.
Thank you, Paul
Mallory
____________ _________ _________ _______
I folded
the letter and slipped it back in the envelope. Sure I
had heard of Paul Mallory, everyone in town knew him, even
new people like me. Local kid, killed in Iraq a few
months ago and posthumously earning the Silver Star when he
gave his life to save three buddies. Flags had been at
half-mast all summer.
I leaned forward in my chair and rested my elbows on
my knees, staring at the dog.
"Hey, Tank," I said quietly.
The dog's head whipped up, his ears cocked and his
eyes bright.
"C'mere boy."
He was instantly on his feet, his nails clicking on
the hardwood floor. He sat in front of me, his head
tilted, searching for the name he hadn't heard in months.
"Tank," I whispered.
His tail swished.
I kept whispering his name, over and over, and each
time, his ears lowered, his eyes softened, and his posture
relaxed as a wave of contentment just seemed to flood
him. I stroked his ears, rubbed his shoulders, buried
my face into his scruff and hugged him.
"It's me now, Tank, just you and me.
Your old pal gave you to me." Tank reached up and
licked my cheek. "So whatdaya say we play some
ball?" His ears perked again.
"Yeah? Ball? You like that?
Ball?" Tank tore from my hands and
disappeared in the next room.
And when he came back, he had three tennis balls in
his mouth.
balls, his dishes, and a sealed letter from his previous
owner. See, Reggie and I didn't really hit it off
when we got home. We struggled for two weeks (which is
how long the shelter told me to give him to adjust to his
new home). Maybe it was the fact that I was trying to
adjust, too. Maybe we were too much alike.
For some reason, his stuff (except for the tennis
balls --- he wouldn't go anywhere without two stuffed in
his mouth) got tossed in with all of my other unpacked
boxes. I guess I didn't really think he'd need
all his old stuff, that I'd get him new things once he
settled in. But it became pretty clear pretty soon
that he wasn't going to.
I tried the normal commands the shelter told me he
knew, ones like "sit" and "stay" and
"come" and "heel," and he'd follow
them - when he felt like it. He never really seemed to
listen when I called his name --- sure, he'd look in my
direction after the fourth or fifth time I said it, but then
he'd just go back to doing whatever. When I'd
ask again, you could almost see him sigh and then grudgingly
obey.
This just wasn't going to work. He chewed a
couple shoes and some unpacked boxes. I was a little
too stern with him and he resented it, I could tell.
The friction got so bad that I couldn't wait for the two
weeks to be up, and when it was, I was in full-on search
mode for my cell phone amid all of my unpacked stuff. I
remembered leaving it on the stack of boxes for the guest
room, but I also mumbled, rather cynically, that the
"damn dog probably hid it on me."
Finally I found it, but before I could punch up the
shelter's number, I also found his pad and other toys
from the shelter...I tossed the pad in Reggie's
direction and he snuffed it and wagged, some of the most
enthusiasm I'd seen since bringing him home. But
then I called, "Hey, Reggie, you like that? Come
here and I'll give you a treat." Instead, he
sort of glanced in my direction --- maybe "glared"
is more accurate --- and then gave a discontented sigh and
flopped down. With his back to me.
Well, that's not going to do it either, I
thought. And I punched the shelter phone number.
But I hung up when I saw the sealed envelope. I
had completely forgotten about that, too. "Okay,
Reggie," I said out loud, "let's see if
your previous owner has any advice.".... .....
____________ _________ _________ _________
To
Whoever Gets My Dog:
Well, I can't say that I'm
happy you're reading this, a letter I told the shelter
could only be opened by Reggie's new owner.
I'm not even happy writing it. If you're
reading this, it means I just got back from my last car ride
with my Lab after dropping him off at the shelter. He
knew something was different. I have packed up his pad
and toys before and set them by the back door before a trip,
but this time... it's like he knew something was
wrong. And something is wrong...which is why I have
to go to try to make it right.
So let me tell you about my Lab in the hopes that it
will help you bond with him and he with
you.
First, he loves tennis balls.
The more the merrier. Sometimes I think he's part
squirrel, the way he hordes them. He usually always
has two in his mouth, and he tries to get a third in
there. Hasn't done it yet. Doesn't
matter where you throw them, he'll bound after it, so be
careful - really don't do it by any roads.. I made
that mistake once, and it almost cost him
dearly.
Next, commands. Maybe the shelter staff
already told you, but I'll go over them
again: Reggie knows the obvious ones ---
"sit," "stay," "come," "heel." He knows hand signals:
"back" to turn around and go back when you put
your hand straight up; and "over" if you put your
hand out right or left. "Shake" for shaking
water off, and "paw" for a high-five. He
does "down" when he feels like lying down --- I bet
you could work on that with him some more. He knows
"ball" and "food" and "bone"
and "treat" like nobody's
business.
I trained Reggie with small food
treats. Nothing opens his ears like little pieces
of hot dog.
Feeding schedule: twice a day,
once about seven in the morning, and again at six in
the evening. Regular store-bought stuff; the shelter
has the brand.
He's up on his shots.
Call the clinic on 9th Street and update his info with
yours; they'll make sure to send you reminders for when
he's due. Be forewarned: Reggie hates the
vet. Good luck getting him in the car --- I don't
know how he knows when it's time to go to the vet, but
he knows.
Finally, give him some time.
I've never been married, so it's only been Reggie
and me for his whole life. He's gone everywhere
with me, so please include him on your daily car rides if
you can. He sits well in the backseat, and he
doesn't bark or complain. He just loves to be
around people, and me most especially.
Which means that this transition is
going to be hard, with him going to live with someone
new.
And that's why I need to share
one more bit of info with you.....
His name's not
Reggie.
I don't know what made me do it, but
when I dropped him off at the shelter, I told them
his name was Reggie. He's a smart dog, he'll get used to it
and will respond to it, of that I have no
doubt. But I just couldn't bear to give them his
real name. For me to do that, it seemed so final, that
handing him over to the shelter was as good as me admitting
that I'd never see him again. And if I end up
coming back, getting him, and tearing up this letter, it
means everything's fine. But if someone else is
reading it, well .... well it means that his new owner should
know his real name. It'll help you bond with
him. Who knows, maybe you'll even notice a change
in his demeanor if he's been giving you
problems.
His real name is "Tank".
Because that is what I
drive.
Again, if you're reading this
and you're from the area, maybe my name has been on the
news. I told the shelter that they couldn't make
"Reggie" available for adoption until they
received word from my company commander. See, my
parents are gone, I have no siblings, no one I could've
left Tank with ... and it was my only real request of the
Army upon my deployment to Iraq , that they make one phone...
call the shelter ... in the "event" ... to tell
them that Tank could be put up for adoption. Luckily,
my colonel is a dog guy, too, and he knew where my platoon
was headed. He said he'd do it
personally. And if you're reading this, then
he made good on his word.
Well, this letter is getting downright depressing,
even though, frankly, I'm just
writing it for my dog. I couldn't imagine if I was
writing it for a wife and kids and family ... but still,
Tank has been my family for the last six years, almost as
long as the Army has been my family.
And now I hope and pray that you
make him part of your family and that he will adjust and
come to love you the same way he loved me.
That unconditional love from a dog
is what I take with me to Iraq as an inspiration to do
something selfless, to protect innocent people from those
who would do terrible things ... and to keep those terrible
people from coming over here. If I have to give up Tank
in order to do it, I am glad to have done so. He is
my example of service and of love. I hope I honored
him by my service to my country and comrades.
All right, that's enough.
I deploy this evening and have to drop this letter off at
the shelter. I don't think I'll say another
good-bye to Tank, though. I cried too much the first
time. Maybe I'll peek in on him and see if he
finally got that third tennis ball in his
mouth.
Good luck with Tank. Give him
a good home, and give him an extra kiss goodnight - every
night - from me.
Thank you, Paul
Mallory
____________ _________ _________ _______
I folded
the letter and slipped it back in the envelope. Sure I
had heard of Paul Mallory, everyone in town knew him, even
new people like me. Local kid, killed in Iraq a few
months ago and posthumously earning the Silver Star when he
gave his life to save three buddies. Flags had been at
half-mast all summer.
I leaned forward in my chair and rested my elbows on
my knees, staring at the dog.
"Hey, Tank," I said quietly.
The dog's head whipped up, his ears cocked and his
eyes bright.
"C'mere boy."
He was instantly on his feet, his nails clicking on
the hardwood floor. He sat in front of me, his head
tilted, searching for the name he hadn't heard in months.
"Tank," I whispered.
His tail swished.
I kept whispering his name, over and over, and each
time, his ears lowered, his eyes softened, and his posture
relaxed as a wave of contentment just seemed to flood
him. I stroked his ears, rubbed his shoulders, buried
my face into his scruff and hugged him.
"It's me now, Tank, just you and me.
Your old pal gave you to me." Tank reached up and
licked my cheek. "So whatdaya say we play some
ball?" His ears perked again.
"Yeah? Ball? You like that?
Ball?" Tank tore from my hands and
disappeared in the next room.
And when he came back, he had three tennis balls in
his mouth.
Hello again, Blog!
Well, the moving is behind me and I am back on line, granted its still Dial-up, still with peoplepc but hey, I am also here! I really dislike Dial-up but when its all one can get, its all one can get! I am thankful for what I have.
I have found a lot of interesting things to post, hope ppl will like them enough to leave a comment. I leave a comment on everyone's blog I go to to show them appreciation for their efforts and was hoping ppl would do that here.
Enjoy your day,
Sunny
I have found a lot of interesting things to post, hope ppl will like them enough to leave a comment. I leave a comment on everyone's blog I go to to show them appreciation for their efforts and was hoping ppl would do that here.
Enjoy your day,
Sunny
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Hello Blog!
I have missed you!
I have been picking out my new place, packing and then the actual moving itself and its been a busy busy time. I love my new place! It's very small yet roomy and airy. The inside walls and floors are wood, lovely shades of natural wood which makes me feel as if I am outside and not confined inside four walls. The ceiling is beams in which I have my ceiling lights but can also hang plants. I have an old fashion bird cage which I turned into a planter for wandering dew and another for spider plants and they will be just gorgeous hanging from them!!
I also had a Heart/Belly Cath and it weren't one bit pleasant in spite of all the assurances that "I wouldn't feel a thing" It was miserable and I am still feeling the effects. I have to stay with my daughter for a full week "just in case I start bleeding" (I am a bleeder)
However I am keeping the Faith all will go well and I will be staying in my own little heaven before much longer!
I have been picking out my new place, packing and then the actual moving itself and its been a busy busy time. I love my new place! It's very small yet roomy and airy. The inside walls and floors are wood, lovely shades of natural wood which makes me feel as if I am outside and not confined inside four walls. The ceiling is beams in which I have my ceiling lights but can also hang plants. I have an old fashion bird cage which I turned into a planter for wandering dew and another for spider plants and they will be just gorgeous hanging from them!!
I also had a Heart/Belly Cath and it weren't one bit pleasant in spite of all the assurances that "I wouldn't feel a thing" It was miserable and I am still feeling the effects. I have to stay with my daughter for a full week "just in case I start bleeding" (I am a bleeder)
However I am keeping the Faith all will go well and I will be staying in my own little heaven before much longer!
Sunday, April 11, 2010
The Dam Letter
SUBJECT: DEQ
File No.97-59-0023; T11N; R10W, Sec 20; Lycoming County
Dear Mr. DeVries:
It has come to the attention of the Department of Environmental Quality that there has been recent unauthorized activity on the above referenced parcel of property. You have been certified as the legal landowner and/or contractor who did the following unauthorized activity:
Construction and maintenance of two wood debris dams across the outlet stream of Spring Pond.
A permit must be issued prior to the start of this type of activity.. A review of the Department's files shows that no permits have been issued Therefore, the Department has determined that this activity is in violation of Part 301, Inland Lakes and Streams, of the Natural Resource and Environmental Protection Act, Act 451 of the Public Acts of 1994, being sections 324.30101 to 324.30113 of the Pennsylvania Compiled Laws, annotated.
The Department has been informed that one or both of the dams partially failed during a recent rain event, causing debris and flooding at downstream locations.. We find that dams of this nature are inherently hazardous and cannot be permitted. The Department therefore orders you to cease and desist all activities at this location, and to restore the stream to a free-flow condition by removing all wood and brush forming the dams from the stream channel. All restoration work shall be completed no later than January 31, 2010.
Please notify this office when the restoration has been completed so that a follow-up site inspection may be scheduled by our staff. Failure to comply with this request or any further unauthorized activity on the site may result in this case being referred for elevated enforcement action..
We anticipate and would appreciate your full cooperation in this matter. Please feel free to contact me at this office if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
David L. Price
District Representative and Water Management Division.
Here is the actual response sent back by Mr. DeVries:
Re: DEQ File
No.. 97-59-0023; T11N; R10W, Sec. 20; Lycoming County
Dear Mr. Price,
Your certified letter dated 11/17/09 has been handed to me. I am the legal landowner but not the Contractor at 2088 Dagget Lane , Trout Run, Pennsylvania .
A couple of beavers are in the (State unauthorized) process of constructing and maintaining two wood 'debris' dams across the outlet stream of my Spring Pond. While I did not pay for, authorize, nor supervise their dam project, I think they would be highly offended that you call their skillful use of natures building materials 'debris.'
These are the beavers/contractors you are seeking. As to your request, I do not think the beavers are aware that they must first fill out a dam permit prior to the start of this type of dam activity.
My first dam question to you is:
(1) Are you trying to discriminate against my Spring Pond Beavers, or
(2) do you require all beavers throughout this State to conform to said dam request?
If you are not discriminating against these particular beavers, through the Freedom of Information Act, I request completed copies of all those other applicable beaver dam permits that have been issued. (Perhaps we will see if there really is a dam violation of Part 301, Inland Lakes and Streams, of the Natural Resource and Environmental Protection Act, Act 451 of the Public Acts of 1994, being sections 324.30101 to 324.30113 of the Pennsylvania Compiled Laws, annotated.)
I have several dam concerns. My first dam concern is, aren't the beavers entitled to legal representation? The Spring Pond Beavers are financially destitute and are unable to pay for said representation -- so the State will have to provide them with a dam lawyer.
The Department's dam concern that either one or both of the dams failed during a recent rain event, causing flooding, is proof that this is a natural occurrence, which the Department is required to protect. In other words, we should leave the Spring Pond Beavers alone rather than harassing them and calling them dam names.
If you want the dammed stream 'restored' to a dam free-flow condition please contact the beavers -- but if you are going to arrest them, they obviously did not pay any attention to your dam letter, they being unable to read English.
In my humble opinion, the Spring Pond Beavers have a right to build their unauthorized dams as long as the sky is blue, the grass is green and water flows downstream. They have more dam rights than I do to live and enjoy Spring Pond. If the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection lives up to its name, it should protect the natural resources (Beavers) and the environment (Beavers' Dams).
So, as far as the beavers and I are concerned, this dam case can be referred for more elevated enforcement action right now. Why wait until 1/31/2010? The Spring Pond Beavers may be under the dam ice by then and there will be no way for you or your dam staff to contact/harass them.
In conclusion, I would like to bring to your attention to a real environmental quality, health, problem in the area It is the bears! Bears are actually defecating in our woods. I definitely believe you should be persecuting the defecating bears and leave the beavers alone. If you are going to investigate the beaver dam, watch your dam step! The bears are not careful where they dump!
Being unable to comply with your dam request, and being unable to contact you on your dam answering machine, I am sending this response to your dam office.
THANK YOU,
RYAN DEVRIES & THE DAM BEAVERS
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Getting on with life
I do have a bright spot in my life.
My daughter has raised a baby squirrel from this (above) after he fell from a nest about 25 feet up in a tree and landed in a big bed of leaves.
to this after she had had it for a couple of weeks (above) She raised him in her sports bra and fed him every two hours around the clock as well as worked a job and took care of her own home and family until she'd had him about three weeks, then she made him an "incubator" to stay in at night as he had begun to crawl but still fed him every two hours by the clock. Now he gets fed every four hours during the day (unless he decides to scream if he wants his bottle more often) and only once or twice at night.
And this was taken yesterday, 04/09/10 (above)
His name is "Squeaker"
He has no doubt my daughter Carrie is his mommy and her ears are his play toys.
Far be it from me to say he is also a spoiled little baby boy, lol!
His name is "Squeaker"
He has no doubt my daughter Carrie is his mommy and her ears are his play toys.
Far be it from me to say he is also a spoiled little baby boy, lol!
Friday, April 9, 2010
A Final Goodbye....
Amber, my sweet sweet baby, while you are waiting for me at Rainbow Bridge remember Mommy loves you very much.
My heart is so broken, mine and your house is so empty and lonely without you here streaking everywhere you went, your voice commenting on anything and everything, our many "talks" where we discussed everything from World Issues to the weather.
Please forgive me for anything I did that was harmful to you out of ignorance and stupidity. It is so hard for me to live with myself knowing I killed you with garlic. I should have called your Dr before giving you anything at all. I am devoured with guilt. I thought I was giving you the best in care, making sure another flea never bit you. Before you came into my life I was a very lonely old woman. You changed all that with your playing and our "conversations" .....you changed it with your constantly showing me love.
I am so lost without you.
My house, my life is empty and lonely again.
Your Mommy
Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.
When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.
All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.
They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.
You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.
Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....
Author unknown...
My heart is so broken, mine and your house is so empty and lonely without you here streaking everywhere you went, your voice commenting on anything and everything, our many "talks" where we discussed everything from World Issues to the weather.
Please forgive me for anything I did that was harmful to you out of ignorance and stupidity. It is so hard for me to live with myself knowing I killed you with garlic. I should have called your Dr before giving you anything at all. I am devoured with guilt. I thought I was giving you the best in care, making sure another flea never bit you. Before you came into my life I was a very lonely old woman. You changed all that with your playing and our "conversations" .....you changed it with your constantly showing me love.
I am so lost without you.
My house, my life is empty and lonely again.
Your Mommy
Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.
When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.
All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.
They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.
You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.
Author unknown...
A Friend "Lil Radar" posted these two poems
for me in Memory of my beloved cat, Amber. I am lost. My house is so empty and lonely. In the few short months I had him I gave him my whole heart and he gave me his.
To: Kitty
From: Amber
Weep not for me though I am gone
Into that gentle night.
Grieve if you will, but not for long
Upon my soul's sweet flight.
I am at peace, my soul's at rest
There is no need for tears.
For with your love I was so blessed
For all those many months.
There is no pain, I suffer not,
The fear now all is gone.
Put now these things out of your thoughts,
In your memory I live on.
Remember not my fight for breath
Remember not the strife.
Please do not dwell upon my death,
But celebrate my life.
To: Amber
From: Kitty
I wish I could have told you,
in words you'd understand,
I wanted you to stay with me.
This wasn't what I'd planned.
I wish somehow to tell you,
How empty I now feel.
A part of me went with you,
A part that time can't heal.
I wish I'd once more hear you,
in your softly, rumbling purr,
to hold you on my lap again
and stroke your snow white fur.
I wish I had you back again,
to fill this empty space.
But one day we'll be together
in a far, far better place
with love, Kitty
To: Kitty
From: Amber
Weep not for me though I am gone
Into that gentle night.
Grieve if you will, but not for long
Upon my soul's sweet flight.
I am at peace, my soul's at rest
There is no need for tears.
For with your love I was so blessed
For all those many months.
There is no pain, I suffer not,
The fear now all is gone.
Put now these things out of your thoughts,
In your memory I live on.
Remember not my fight for breath
Remember not the strife.
Please do not dwell upon my death,
But celebrate my life.
To: Amber
From: Kitty
I wish I could have told you,
in words you'd understand,
I wanted you to stay with me.
This wasn't what I'd planned.
I wish somehow to tell you,
How empty I now feel.
A part of me went with you,
A part that time can't heal.
I wish I'd once more hear you,
in your softly, rumbling purr,
to hold you on my lap again
and stroke your snow white fur.
I wish I had you back again,
to fill this empty space.
But one day we'll be together
in a far, far better place
with love, Kitty
Thursday, April 8, 2010
My beloved cat
Amber died April 6th at 8:30pm. I had given him a natural product called "Flea Free" containing garlic which I learned is very toxic (poisonous) to cats and other animals. I also met a woman who had killed her cat with it plus a woman who had killed her dog by feeding him garlic for fleas.
I was also feeding Amber the so called "proper" dosage of Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth which is used in conjunction with Flea Free.
So, I killed my own cat whom I loved dearly by not researching the age old myths we all take for granted before feeding it to him.
After his death I discovered he had a dormant infection which is deadly to cats but with treatment they can live normal lives for many years with it. The garlic activated it and he died.
Please keep in mind the other two dead animals I spoke of did NOT have any other health problems.
I also learned garlic is very good for many things in humans....providing they are NOT taking blood thinners or blood pressure medicines.
Then people must be extremely careful in using any amount of garlic or onions. I copied the following hoping it will help save an animal somewhere from the fate my sweet Amber suffered.
Cats will sometimes beg for food, but you must be aware that certain foods given to cats are toxic. Giving cats the foods that you eat is not an encouraged behavior, because it spoils his appetite for his canned food. If you give food from your plate to your cat, you'll only support his behavior to beg.
In case you can't resist not sharing your food, be careful not to feed him foods that are cat poison.
1. Chocolate
Chocolate is toxic for cats because it has a compound called theobromine. Theobromine can be fatal to cats. Cats don't have the capacity to efficiently digest this substance, so it's highly poisonous. White chocolate has insignificant amounts of theobromine. However, regular milk chocolate ingested in poisonous amounts can result in vomiting, diarrhea, fever, seizure, coma and even death.
2. Onions and Garlic
Onions and garlic are toxic to cats due to their contents of N-propyl disulphide. This substance has the power to cause anemia by annihilating the red blood cells. Onions are more poisonous than garlic, but keep your cat away from both. Don't forget that even meats may be spiced with garlic or onion, so make sure you check the labels.
3. Potato Family of Plants - Raw
Green tomatoes contain a substance called Glycoalkanoid Solamine, which is poisonous for cats. This substance is present in the family of plants of Solanaceae, informally known as the nightshade or the potato family - which includes tomatoes, potatoes, paprika, chili pepper, eggplant, petunia or the deadly nightshade (belladonna).
If cooked or fully ripe, your cat will have no problem digesting these ingredients. However, don't feed them while they are still raw. The leaves and stems of these plants are very toxic to cats and will cause lower gastrointestinal pain and aggressive symptoms.
4. Grapes
Grapes may be toxic to cats. Avoid feeding them grapes or even raisins, which contain the same substances as grapes.
5. Caffeine
Any product containing caffeine may be toxic to cats. The caffeine excites the nervous system and will cause shaking and vomiting or diarrhea.
These are the 5 main foods that you should avoid giving your cat. However, if the cat has any food intolerance, those foods may also be toxic. There are a lot of lactose-intolerant cats. Food poisoning will be signaled by vomiting, diarrhea, fever, lethargy, cramps, rashes or seizures. You will be able to notice these symptoms within 12 hours after the ingestion of the poisonous food. Go immediately to the vet to avoid further complications.
So, I killed my own cat whom I loved dearly by not researching the age old myths we all take for granted before feeding it to him.
After his death I discovered he had a dormant infection which is deadly to cats but with treatment they can live normal lives for many years with it. The garlic activated it and he died.
Please keep in mind the other two dead animals I spoke of did NOT have any other health problems.
I also learned garlic is very good for many things in humans....providing they are NOT taking blood thinners or blood pressure medicines.
Then people must be extremely careful in using any amount of garlic or onions. I copied the following hoping it will help save an animal somewhere from the fate my sweet Amber suffered.
Cats will sometimes beg for food, but you must be aware that certain foods given to cats are toxic. Giving cats the foods that you eat is not an encouraged behavior, because it spoils his appetite for his canned food. If you give food from your plate to your cat, you'll only support his behavior to beg.
In case you can't resist not sharing your food, be careful not to feed him foods that are cat poison.
1. Chocolate
Chocolate is toxic for cats because it has a compound called theobromine. Theobromine can be fatal to cats. Cats don't have the capacity to efficiently digest this substance, so it's highly poisonous. White chocolate has insignificant amounts of theobromine. However, regular milk chocolate ingested in poisonous amounts can result in vomiting, diarrhea, fever, seizure, coma and even death.
2. Onions and Garlic
Onions and garlic are toxic to cats due to their contents of N-propyl disulphide. This substance has the power to cause anemia by annihilating the red blood cells. Onions are more poisonous than garlic, but keep your cat away from both. Don't forget that even meats may be spiced with garlic or onion, so make sure you check the labels.
3. Potato Family of Plants - Raw
Green tomatoes contain a substance called Glycoalkanoid Solamine, which is poisonous for cats. This substance is present in the family of plants of Solanaceae, informally known as the nightshade or the potato family - which includes tomatoes, potatoes, paprika, chili pepper, eggplant, petunia or the deadly nightshade (belladonna).
If cooked or fully ripe, your cat will have no problem digesting these ingredients. However, don't feed them while they are still raw. The leaves and stems of these plants are very toxic to cats and will cause lower gastrointestinal pain and aggressive symptoms.
4. Grapes
Grapes may be toxic to cats. Avoid feeding them grapes or even raisins, which contain the same substances as grapes.
5. Caffeine
Any product containing caffeine may be toxic to cats. The caffeine excites the nervous system and will cause shaking and vomiting or diarrhea.
These are the 5 main foods that you should avoid giving your cat. However, if the cat has any food intolerance, those foods may also be toxic. There are a lot of lactose-intolerant cats. Food poisoning will be signaled by vomiting, diarrhea, fever, lethargy, cramps, rashes or seizures. You will be able to notice these symptoms within 12 hours after the ingestion of the poisonous food. Go immediately to the vet to avoid further complications.
Monday, April 5, 2010
GARLIC IS POISONOUS TO CATS!!!
Two and a half weeks ago I got some Flea Free and D.E. (Diatomacous Earth) both available from http://www.organicworldproducts.com/ which has a garlic/vinegar base.
I followed the instructions to the letter on how to give it to my cat.
As a result my cat is lying in the hospital at deaths door, the vet not sure at all if she can save him or not. The blood work was traced to the garlic.
My cat is receiving the best of care including a blood transfusion but isnt expected to make it through the night.
I learned from the vet garlic is highly toxic to cats (especially) but can kill dogs also.
In fact, I just met a woman today who killed her dog using it going by directions.
And garlic does not kill fleas.
It kills your cat (pets)
sunny
I followed the instructions to the letter on how to give it to my cat.
As a result my cat is lying in the hospital at deaths door, the vet not sure at all if she can save him or not. The blood work was traced to the garlic.
My cat is receiving the best of care including a blood transfusion but isnt expected to make it through the night.
I learned from the vet garlic is highly toxic to cats (especially) but can kill dogs also.
In fact, I just met a woman today who killed her dog using it going by directions.
And garlic does not kill fleas.
It kills your cat (pets)
sunny
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Easter Day, 2010
Hello and Happy Resurrection Day!
I continue to be amazed at the people who refuse to smoke or be around second hand smoke, wont eat red meat or chicken unless its skinned and broiled, use very, if any at all, low amounts of salt, who work out everyday and take many vitamin supplements, in short, go all out to maintain the best health possible, yet will deliberately get out on the roads in Holiday Traffic when traveling is at the most dangerous peak and risk being killed, killing someone(s) else or being crippled for the rest of their lives.
Not very responsible behavior, is it?
At the time being I live across the lake from the Hospital and the Medical Choppers fly very low over my house going to the landing pad to pick up the badly wounded and transport them to a larger more well staffed hospital. The choppers have flown in constantly day and night since Friday.
For the majority of children Easter is a lousy rabbit and tons of hidden Easter Eggs. They dont have a clue as to what Easter really stands for.
And the majority of adults will put on their best clothes and go sit in a church for an hour or so just waiting for the services to get over so they can rush home and hide the eggs they spent hours or even days coloring instead of teaching their children Our Savior spent nine excruciating hours on a torture stake to redeem us from our miserable and corrupted sins. The churches arent any better. Most of them have Easter egg hunts for the Sunday School kids after the services are over.
Jesus Christ is alive and is a reigning King, not some dead figure hanging on a cross as pictured in churches or worn around people's necks.
Again, Happy Resurrection Day
.
Sunny Daze
I continue to be amazed at the people who refuse to smoke or be around second hand smoke, wont eat red meat or chicken unless its skinned and broiled, use very, if any at all, low amounts of salt, who work out everyday and take many vitamin supplements, in short, go all out to maintain the best health possible, yet will deliberately get out on the roads in Holiday Traffic when traveling is at the most dangerous peak and risk being killed, killing someone(s) else or being crippled for the rest of their lives.
Not very responsible behavior, is it?
At the time being I live across the lake from the Hospital and the Medical Choppers fly very low over my house going to the landing pad to pick up the badly wounded and transport them to a larger more well staffed hospital. The choppers have flown in constantly day and night since Friday.
For the majority of children Easter is a lousy rabbit and tons of hidden Easter Eggs. They dont have a clue as to what Easter really stands for.
And the majority of adults will put on their best clothes and go sit in a church for an hour or so just waiting for the services to get over so they can rush home and hide the eggs they spent hours or even days coloring instead of teaching their children Our Savior spent nine excruciating hours on a torture stake to redeem us from our miserable and corrupted sins. The churches arent any better. Most of them have Easter egg hunts for the Sunday School kids after the services are over.
Jesus Christ is alive and is a reigning King, not some dead figure hanging on a cross as pictured in churches or worn around people's necks.
Again, Happy Resurrection Day
Sunny Daze
Thursday, April 1, 2010
The first day of a new month!
Most people consider this "April Fool Day"
I consider this the first day of a new April, an April we shall never see again.
It dawned beautiful and sunny here in North Fl, a balmy day, one to be enjoyed and cherished. Soon the bitter cold will be replaced by stiffling smothering heat. As a rule we dont have a "spring" and a "fall" as many other States do, we just go from freezing to blistering hot. Therefore days such as this one are little diamonds scattered about.
Nothing new to report on my situation of having to relocate, it's still a fearful situation which I am trying to convince myself is an Adventure but not doing such a good job of it.
It is simply overwhelming.
No one has told me if they can view the pictures in my blogs with IE8 yet or not. I am still hoping someone will leave a comment. I can only see my pic's by using Fire Fox.
Sunny
I consider this the first day of a new April, an April we shall never see again.
It dawned beautiful and sunny here in North Fl, a balmy day, one to be enjoyed and cherished. Soon the bitter cold will be replaced by stiffling smothering heat. As a rule we dont have a "spring" and a "fall" as many other States do, we just go from freezing to blistering hot. Therefore days such as this one are little diamonds scattered about.
Nothing new to report on my situation of having to relocate, it's still a fearful situation which I am trying to convince myself is an Adventure but not doing such a good job of it.
It is simply overwhelming.
No one has told me if they can view the pictures in my blogs with IE8 yet or not. I am still hoping someone will leave a comment. I can only see my pic's by using Fire Fox.
Sunny
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Can you view the pic's in my blog
using either IE 7 or 8?
I use IE8 and most of the pic's are nasty little red "X"'s.
I can see them clearly using Fire Fox but dont understand as they were fine with IE8 until a few days ago. I also cant upload any pic's from my pc with IE8 but can with Fire Fox.
I would appreciate your comments about this matter.
Thank you, sunnydaze
I use IE8 and most of the pic's are nasty little red "X"'s.
I can see them clearly using Fire Fox but dont understand as they were fine with IE8 until a few days ago. I also cant upload any pic's from my pc with IE8 but can with Fire Fox.
I would appreciate your comments about this matter.
Thank you, sunnydaze
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Kinda brings a tear to ya eye, dont it? LOL! LOL!
Man fleeing Ohio police jumps fence _ into prison.
March 30, 2010 12:08 PM EDT
CLEVELAND (AP) — Police say a motorist fleeing officers in Cleveland abandoned his car and jumped a fence — landing in what turned out to be a prison yard.
Garfield Heights police say the chase started in that suburb early Monday over a traffic violation and reached speeds of 90 mph.
Police say that after a race through several communities, the driver and a passenger bolted from the car and headed for a fence.
They apparently did not realize it was on the outside the state women's prison in Cleveland.
They were arrested along with two other passengers who also tried to flee.
March 30, 2010 12:08 PM EDT
CLEVELAND (AP) — Police say a motorist fleeing officers in Cleveland abandoned his car and jumped a fence — landing in what turned out to be a prison yard.
Garfield Heights police say the chase started in that suburb early Monday over a traffic violation and reached speeds of 90 mph.
Police say that after a race through several communities, the driver and a passenger bolted from the car and headed for a fence.
They apparently did not realize it was on the outside the state women's prison in Cleveland.
They were arrested along with two other passengers who also tried to flee.
Monday, March 29, 2010
No wonder some "Christians" scare me!!
Top Stories | Business | Sports | Entertainment | Strange | Politics | Technology | National | International | Health
Christian militia accused of plotting to kill cops
This combo of eight photos provided by the U.S. Marshals Service on Monday March 29, 2010 shows from top left, David Brian Stone Sr., 44, of Clayton, Mich,; David Brian Stone Jr. of Adrian, Mich,; Jacob Ward, 33, of Huron, Ohio; Tina Mae Stone and bottom row from left, Michael David Meeks, 40, of Manchester, Mich,; Kristopher T. Sickles, 27, of Sandusky, Ohio; Joshua John Clough, 28, of Blissfield, Mich.; and Thomas William Piatek, 46, of Whiting, Ind.,. Nine suspects tied to Hutaree, a Christian militia that was preparing for the Antichrist were charged with conspiring to kill police officers, then kill scores more by attacking a funeral using homemade bombs, federal prosecutors said Monday. Federal authorities say Stone's other son, Joshua Matthew Stone is a fugitive. Piatek, 46, of Whiting, Ind., was arrested Sunday in Illinois after an FBI raid Saturday in Hammond, Ind. In court Monday, he initially said he was the person named in the federal indictment, but when read the allegations, he said "I'm not that guy." U.S. District Judge Paul Cherry ordered Piatek to return Wednesday for an identity and bond hearing. (AP Photo/U.S. Marshall)
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March 30, 2010 1:08 AM EDT
DETROIT (AP) — Nine alleged members of a Christian militia group that was girding for battle with the Antichrist were charged Monday with plotting to kill a police officer and slaughter scores more by bombing the funeral — all in hopes of touching off an uprising against the U.S. government.
Seven men and one woman believed to be part of the Michigan-based Hutaree were arrested over the weekend in raids in Michigan, Indiana and Ohio. The ninth suspect was arrested Monday night after a search in rural southern Michigan.
FBI agents moved quickly against Hutaree because its members were planning an attack sometime in April, prosecutors said. Authorities seized guns in the raids but would not say whether they found explosives.
The arrests have dealt "a severe blow to a dangerous organization that today stands accused of conspiring to levy war against the United States," Attorney General Eric Holder said.
Authorities said the arrests underscored the dangers of homegrown right-wing extremism of the sort seen in the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing that killed 168 people.
In an indictment, prosecutors said the group began military-style training in the Michigan woods in 2008, learning how to shoot guns and make and set off bombs.
David Brian Stone, 44, of Clayton, Mich., and one of his sons were identified as ringleaders of the group. Stone, who was known as "Captain Hutaree," organized the group in paramilitary fashion and members were assigned secret names, prosecutors said. Ranks ranged from "radoks" to "gunners," according to the group's Web site.
"It started out as a Christian thing," Stone's ex-wife, Donna Stone, told The Associated Press. "You go to church. You pray. You take care of your family. I think David started to take it a little too far."
Donna Stone said her ex-husband pulled her son into the movement. Another of David Stone's sons was arrested Monday night about 30 miles from the site of the weekend raid at a home where he was found with five other adults and a child.
Joshua Matthew Stone surrendered about 8 p.m., said Andrew Arena, head of the FBI's field office in Detroit. Stone's friends and relatives had recorded messages, urging him to surrender, that the FBI played over loudspeakers outside the home before he and the others came out willingly, Arena said.
"We're guessing he's been in there at least a day," Arena said.
Arena said the other adults at the home were taken into custody and will be interviewed. A determination will be made later about whether they might face charges, he said. The child was 1 or 2 years old, Arena said.
Other details, including whether those in the house had weapons or were affiliated with Hutaree, weren't immediately released.
Prosecutors said David Stone had identified certain law enforcement officers near his home as potential targets. He and other members discussed setting off bombs at a police funeral, using a fake 911 call to lure an officer to his death, killing an officer after a traffic stop, or attacking the family of an officer, according to the indictment.
After such attacks, the group allegedly planned to retreat to "rally points" protected by trip-wired explosives for a violent standoff with the law.
"It is believed by the Hutaree that this engagement would then serve as a catalyst for a more widespread uprising against the government," the indictment said.
The charges against the eight include seditious conspiracy — plotting to levy war against the U.S. — possessing a firearm during a crime of violence, teaching the use of explosives, and attempting to use a weapon of mass destruction — homemade bombs.
Hutaree says on its Web site its name means "Christian warrior" and describes the word as part of a secret language few are privileged to know. The group quotes several Bible passages and declares: "We believe that one day, as prophecy says, there will be an Anti-Christ. ... Jesus wanted us to be ready to defend ourselves using the sword and stay alive using equipment."
The nature of the organization's alleged grudge against law enforcement and the government was unclear. The Web site does not list specific grievances.
The site features a picture of 17 men in camouflage, all holding large guns, and includes videos of armed men running through the woods. Each wears a shoulder patch that bears a cross and two red spears.
David Cid, executive director of the Oklahoma City-based Memorial Institute for the Prevention of Terrorism, said there has been a resurgence in the past year or two of "domestic militancy" similar to what was seen before the Oklahoma City bombing.
"It's issues like eminent domain and immigration, and apparently national health care in some quarters," said Cid, a former FBI counterterrorism agent. "It's increasing these people's ire and their discomfort with their own government."
The wife of one of the defendants described Hutaree as a small group of patriotic, Christian buddies who were just doing survival training.
"It consisted of a dad and two of his sons and I think just a couple other close friends of theirs," said Kelly Sickles, who husband, Kristopher, was among those charged. "It was supposed to be a Christian group. Christ-like, right, so why would you think that's something wrong with that, right?"
Sickles said she came home Saturday night to find her house in Sandusky, Ohio, in disarray. Agents seized the guns her husband collected as a hobby and searched for bomb-making materials, she said, but added: "He doesn't even know how to make a bomb. We had no bomb material here."
She said she couldn't believe her 27-year-old husband could be involved in anything violent.
"It was just survival skills," she said. "That's what they were learning. And it's just patriotism. It's in our Constitution."
One of the defendants expressed anti-tax views during his Monday court hearing.
Thomas W. Piatek, a truck driver from Whiting, Ind., told a federal judge he could not afford an attorney because he was "getting raped on property taxes."
The mother of another defendant, 33-year-old Jacob Ward, told police in Huron, Ohio, last summer that family members took away his two guns — an AK-47 rifle and a semiautomatic pistol — because she thought he needed mental health treatment.
Ward told police he needed to protect himself from members of a crime family that was keeping him from his girlfriend, according to Huron police records obtained by the AP. He also said he was going to meet with the CIA.
Seven of the defendants in court in Michigan asked to be represented by public defenders. The eighth had a public defender appointed in Indiana.
___
Devlin Barrett reported from Washington. Associated Press writers John Seewer in Wheatland Township, Mich.; Meghan Barr in Sandusky, Ohio; David Aguilar and Jeff Karoub in Detroit; and Mike Householder in Adrian, Mich.; and Don Babwin in Chicago contributed to this report.
Christian militia accused of plotting to kill cops
This combo of eight photos provided by the U.S. Marshals Service on Monday March 29, 2010 shows from top left, David Brian Stone Sr., 44, of Clayton, Mich,; David Brian Stone Jr. of Adrian, Mich,; Jacob Ward, 33, of Huron, Ohio; Tina Mae Stone and bottom row from left, Michael David Meeks, 40, of Manchester, Mich,; Kristopher T. Sickles, 27, of Sandusky, Ohio; Joshua John Clough, 28, of Blissfield, Mich.; and Thomas William Piatek, 46, of Whiting, Ind.,. Nine suspects tied to Hutaree, a Christian militia that was preparing for the Antichrist were charged with conspiring to kill police officers, then kill scores more by attacking a funeral using homemade bombs, federal prosecutors said Monday. Federal authorities say Stone's other son, Joshua Matthew Stone is a fugitive. Piatek, 46, of Whiting, Ind., was arrested Sunday in Illinois after an FBI raid Saturday in Hammond, Ind. In court Monday, he initially said he was the person named in the federal indictment, but when read the allegations, he said "I'm not that guy." U.S. District Judge Paul Cherry ordered Piatek to return Wednesday for an identity and bond hearing. (AP Photo/U.S. Marshall)
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March 30, 2010 1:08 AM EDT
DETROIT (AP) — Nine alleged members of a Christian militia group that was girding for battle with the Antichrist were charged Monday with plotting to kill a police officer and slaughter scores more by bombing the funeral — all in hopes of touching off an uprising against the U.S. government.
Seven men and one woman believed to be part of the Michigan-based Hutaree were arrested over the weekend in raids in Michigan, Indiana and Ohio. The ninth suspect was arrested Monday night after a search in rural southern Michigan.
FBI agents moved quickly against Hutaree because its members were planning an attack sometime in April, prosecutors said. Authorities seized guns in the raids but would not say whether they found explosives.
The arrests have dealt "a severe blow to a dangerous organization that today stands accused of conspiring to levy war against the United States," Attorney General Eric Holder said.
Authorities said the arrests underscored the dangers of homegrown right-wing extremism of the sort seen in the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing that killed 168 people.
In an indictment, prosecutors said the group began military-style training in the Michigan woods in 2008, learning how to shoot guns and make and set off bombs.
David Brian Stone, 44, of Clayton, Mich., and one of his sons were identified as ringleaders of the group. Stone, who was known as "Captain Hutaree," organized the group in paramilitary fashion and members were assigned secret names, prosecutors said. Ranks ranged from "radoks" to "gunners," according to the group's Web site.
"It started out as a Christian thing," Stone's ex-wife, Donna Stone, told The Associated Press. "You go to church. You pray. You take care of your family. I think David started to take it a little too far."
Donna Stone said her ex-husband pulled her son into the movement. Another of David Stone's sons was arrested Monday night about 30 miles from the site of the weekend raid at a home where he was found with five other adults and a child.
Joshua Matthew Stone surrendered about 8 p.m., said Andrew Arena, head of the FBI's field office in Detroit. Stone's friends and relatives had recorded messages, urging him to surrender, that the FBI played over loudspeakers outside the home before he and the others came out willingly, Arena said.
"We're guessing he's been in there at least a day," Arena said.
Arena said the other adults at the home were taken into custody and will be interviewed. A determination will be made later about whether they might face charges, he said. The child was 1 or 2 years old, Arena said.
Other details, including whether those in the house had weapons or were affiliated with Hutaree, weren't immediately released.
Prosecutors said David Stone had identified certain law enforcement officers near his home as potential targets. He and other members discussed setting off bombs at a police funeral, using a fake 911 call to lure an officer to his death, killing an officer after a traffic stop, or attacking the family of an officer, according to the indictment.
After such attacks, the group allegedly planned to retreat to "rally points" protected by trip-wired explosives for a violent standoff with the law.
"It is believed by the Hutaree that this engagement would then serve as a catalyst for a more widespread uprising against the government," the indictment said.
The charges against the eight include seditious conspiracy — plotting to levy war against the U.S. — possessing a firearm during a crime of violence, teaching the use of explosives, and attempting to use a weapon of mass destruction — homemade bombs.
Hutaree says on its Web site its name means "Christian warrior" and describes the word as part of a secret language few are privileged to know. The group quotes several Bible passages and declares: "We believe that one day, as prophecy says, there will be an Anti-Christ. ... Jesus wanted us to be ready to defend ourselves using the sword and stay alive using equipment."
The nature of the organization's alleged grudge against law enforcement and the government was unclear. The Web site does not list specific grievances.
The site features a picture of 17 men in camouflage, all holding large guns, and includes videos of armed men running through the woods. Each wears a shoulder patch that bears a cross and two red spears.
David Cid, executive director of the Oklahoma City-based Memorial Institute for the Prevention of Terrorism, said there has been a resurgence in the past year or two of "domestic militancy" similar to what was seen before the Oklahoma City bombing.
"It's issues like eminent domain and immigration, and apparently national health care in some quarters," said Cid, a former FBI counterterrorism agent. "It's increasing these people's ire and their discomfort with their own government."
The wife of one of the defendants described Hutaree as a small group of patriotic, Christian buddies who were just doing survival training.
"It consisted of a dad and two of his sons and I think just a couple other close friends of theirs," said Kelly Sickles, who husband, Kristopher, was among those charged. "It was supposed to be a Christian group. Christ-like, right, so why would you think that's something wrong with that, right?"
Sickles said she came home Saturday night to find her house in Sandusky, Ohio, in disarray. Agents seized the guns her husband collected as a hobby and searched for bomb-making materials, she said, but added: "He doesn't even know how to make a bomb. We had no bomb material here."
She said she couldn't believe her 27-year-old husband could be involved in anything violent.
"It was just survival skills," she said. "That's what they were learning. And it's just patriotism. It's in our Constitution."
One of the defendants expressed anti-tax views during his Monday court hearing.
Thomas W. Piatek, a truck driver from Whiting, Ind., told a federal judge he could not afford an attorney because he was "getting raped on property taxes."
The mother of another defendant, 33-year-old Jacob Ward, told police in Huron, Ohio, last summer that family members took away his two guns — an AK-47 rifle and a semiautomatic pistol — because she thought he needed mental health treatment.
Ward told police he needed to protect himself from members of a crime family that was keeping him from his girlfriend, according to Huron police records obtained by the AP. He also said he was going to meet with the CIA.
Seven of the defendants in court in Michigan asked to be represented by public defenders. The eighth had a public defender appointed in Indiana.
___
Devlin Barrett reported from Washington. Associated Press writers John Seewer in Wheatland Township, Mich.; Meghan Barr in Sandusky, Ohio; David Aguilar and Jeff Karoub in Detroit; and Mike Householder in Adrian, Mich.; and Don Babwin in Chicago contributed to this report.
Having a problem....
My picture's are suddenly nasty little red "X"'s...wonder why they wont load?? Have I got to many?? (Say it aint so! I love my pictures!)
I had to do away with my videos as I couldnt load my blog at all. The problem turned out to be Dial Up. I am now using peoplepc as a server (until things are in order and I can get back on Comcast) and for the time being it is much better than netzero ever thought about being and less expensive too!!
Back to why have my pictures become nasty little red "X"'s? And I just discovered I cant upload any either!!
Have the settings somehow changed? And if so, how did they change by themselves? And where are they? It's like the Blog Monster has taken my blog away from me!!
I had to do away with my videos as I couldnt load my blog at all. The problem turned out to be Dial Up. I am now using peoplepc as a server (until things are in order and I can get back on Comcast) and for the time being it is much better than netzero ever thought about being and less expensive too!!
Back to why have my pictures become nasty little red "X"'s? And I just discovered I cant upload any either!!
Have the settings somehow changed? And if so, how did they change by themselves? And where are they? It's like the Blog Monster has taken my blog away from me!!
Monday, March 22, 2010
Changed Servers!
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Dear Blog! (Bawl!!)
I need you...sniff..sniff...to assure me I am going to be alright. That I am normal...ok, that I am even close to normal!
?????
Well, arent you just quiet!!
Maybe I will just settle for the fact I dont have to wear one of those white jackets that make people hug themselves.
Yet.
I dont like the weather. I dont like being in pain or sick. I dont like being old and wrinkled.
And I absolutely hate Dial Up!
But do you know what I hate worse? It's not being on line at all!
I despise my current server, Netzero, so here is my sage advise: Do not ever, ever, use Netzero! It will turn you from a decent human being into a cursing raging devil! And when you run out of curse words you will find yourself making some up! In a different language you also just made up on the spot!
Trust me on that one!
?????
Well, arent you just quiet!!
Maybe I will just settle for the fact I dont have to wear one of those white jackets that make people hug themselves.
Yet.
I dont like the weather. I dont like being in pain or sick. I dont like being old and wrinkled.
And I absolutely hate Dial Up!
But do you know what I hate worse? It's not being on line at all!
Trust me on that one!
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Help me make sense of this!
And suddenly she is gone. Dead. No warning for those remaining behind. No time to prepare her two children, ages ten and twelve. No time to prepare her parents, to prepare any of us. Just woke up one morning with a rash on her forehead and dead the next morning. Staff infection.
Wendy was 35 years old. Her youth did not protect her, did not keep her alive. My daughter is 34 years old. I look at my daughter through new eyes and realize her life is as fragile as Wendy's, as mine, as yours. And it scares me. Vomit rises up in my throat when I allow myself to fully understand I could also one day have to face life without my daughter.
How does a parent cope with the loss of a child, a child of any age? My daughter is 34 years old and she is still my baby, my child.
Wendy will spend her first night in her grave, her final resting place, tonight. In the City Of The Dead.
I am not handling this very well at all. It leads me to the question: How is her mother, her father, dealing with it? My heart, sympathy and prayers are with them.
Wendy Hedges
Mrs. Wendy Hedges, 35, of Lake City went home to be with the Lord unexpectedly Sunday, morning, March 14, at Shands of Lake Shore. Hospital She was born in Live Oak, but lived most of her life in Lake City. Wendy was a fun loving, caring person who loved her family and kids unconditionally. She was a friend to all and a stranger to no one. She will be missed deeply by everyone, but she now joins her grandmother, grandfathers and precious child in heaven.
Wendy is survived by her husband, Jeff Hedges, Lake City, two adorable children, Cody and AbreAnna, loving parents, James and Debbie Daugherty, loving sister Misty (Shone) Nash, special nieces, Candice and Alexis, a very special Uncle Bobby, Aunt B and Uncle Virgil. Wendy also leaves a host of aunts, uncles, cousins and wonderful friends.
Funeral services for Wendy will be held, Wednesday March 17, 2010 at 1:00 P.M. at Gateway-Forest Lawn Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Derrick Burrus and Pastor Mark Cunningham officiating. Interment will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be held from 5-7 P.M. Tuesday evening at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations can be to Cody & AbreAnna Hedges, c/o of Heritage Bank of the South, P.O. Box 50728, Albany, GA 31703. Gateway-Forest Lawn Funeral Home 3596 U.S. Hwy 441 S., Lake City, Florida 32025 (386) 752-1954 are in charge of arrangements.
Please sign guestbook at
www.gatewayforestlawn.com Published in Lake City Reporter on March 16, 2010
Monday, March 15, 2010
A Caring Loving Mother
This was sent to me by a friend.
The diagnosis was MS. With this new diagnosis, my mother became driven to prepare me for the world and make sure that I had all the tools I would need to thrive. She wanted me to be independent. My family knew very little about her life expectancy, or how her body would respond to the disease. As the youngest, I had always spent the most time with my mom. I soon became her "helper." I went with her to the bank, doctors' appointments and grocery store. I helped her do the laundry and various other chores and errands. My life lessons had begun.
One summer day when I was eight, my mom asked me to gather up all her bank statements, bills, checkbook and the phone. While we sat on her bed, she dialed a number and handed me the receiver. She told me, "I need you to find out how much money is in my account."
I was terrified, realizing I was about to be on the phone with a real live adult who was not a relative. As the phone rang, I looked at her and said, "I'm only eight. I don't think I should be doing this."
She just looked at me and said, "I will tell you what to say."
I got all the necessary information, and after that we continued to make numerous phone calls. We called the gas company, the light company and a few more places. She guided me through each conversation. By the time I was ten years old, I was well known at the bank and could balance a checkbook without help. I was eventually able to monitor and manage my own savings account. Each month we paid the bills together, and when she could no longer write, I filled out all the checks, addressed the envelopes, purchased stamps and mailed off the rent along with all the other bills.
My mom was an amazing cook and to this day nobody (not even I) makes better cornbread stuffing. Thanksgiving was always a huge feast at our house. With a large family, my mom always wanted to make sure that she had enough food for everyone to eat and enough leftovers to seemingly last us a lifetime. Two days before Thanksgiving, my mom bought all the groceries that she would need to make dinner. The night before, she stuffed the turkey and put it in the oven to cook. The next morning, I found her very upset and crying because she was not feeling well. She did not think she was going to be able to finish Thanksgiving dinner. For the best cook in town and the mother of seven children, this was more than she could bear. I told her I would cook; all she had to do was tell me what to do. I started cooking at seven in the morning and cooked all day. She sat at the kitchen table instructing me at every step. That was the first time that I cooked a full-course meal for my entire family including my brothers' wives, friends and our regular strays. It was the first of many cooking lessons.
By the time I was fourteen, I was cooking dinner on a regular basis. I was able to cook for our family during the holidays, and I could do a lot of it without instruction. However, there were still dishes that I had not mastered. Consequently, my mom had to taste-test everything before it made it to the table. I loved being able to cook, and I enjoyed the time with my mom.
As her MS progressed, she became bedridden. One day she just got in the bed and never got out. I continued the work of helping my mother to manage our lives. When I was seventeen, we lived in a "bad" area. I remember thinking to myself, "We're moving!" I walked into my mother's room and said, "I don't want to live here anymore." The next day, I started making phone calls and looking for a new place to live. In the process, I met the woman who would become our new landlord. She told me that she could not believe that I was only seventeen and insisted on meeting my mother. She was so impressed with the way my mother had raised me that she gave us the house, and we moved two weeks later. I made the necessary calls to get the utilities turned on, have our address changed on our checks, and have the mail forwarded. During the move, there was not one skill that my mother taught me that I did not utilize.
My mother was the single greatest influence in my life. Through every challenge she faced, she led our family with grace and awe-inspiring strength. She made sure that we would be self-sufficient and capable. Ten years after her passing, I still miss her very much. Nonetheless, when she died, I never felt scared or wondered about my future. And the year my mother died, my family and I celebrated her birthday with all her best dishes. I was able to make each one for my family in remembrance of her.
With the blessing of hindsight, I realize how scared my mother must have been, having a young daughter and not knowing how long she would have to teach her all she would need to know. Even though I had different responsibilities than many of my friends, I understood why. My mother did her very best to make sure that I would have the tools I needed to be a responsible, independent and capable adult. And for that, I am grateful.
Where will the Dove fly next?
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Ok....I think, lol!!
I checked this out on Snopes and it’s for real!!!!
1. AVOID CUTTING YOURSELF WHEN SLICING VEGETABLES BY GETTING SOMEONE ELSE TO HOLD THE VEGETABLES WHILE YOU CHOP.
2. AVOID ARGUMENTS WITH THE FEMALES ABOUT LIFTING THE TOILET SEAT BY USING THE SINK.
3. FOR HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE SUFFERERS ~ SIMPLY CUT YOURSELF AND BLEED FOR A FEW MINUTES, THUS REDUCING THE PRESSURE ON YOUR VEINS. REMEMBER TO USE A TIMER.
4. A MOUSE TRAP PLACED ON TOP OF YOUR ALARM CLOCK WILL PREVENT YOU FROM ROLLING OVER AND GOING BACK TO SLEEP AFTER YOU HIT THE SNOOZE BUTTON.
5. IF YOU HAVE A BAD COUGH, TAKE A LARGE DOSE OF LAXATIVES. THEN YOU'LL BE AFRAID TO COUGH.
6. YOU ONLY NEED TWO TOOLS IN LIFE, WD-40 AND DUCT TAPE. IF IT DOESN'T MOVE AND SHOULD, USE THE WD-40. IF IT SHOULDN'T MOVE AND DOES, USE THE DUCT TAPE.
7. IF YOU CAN'T FIX IT WITH A HAMMER, YOU'VE GOT AN ELECTRICAL PROBLEM.
DAILY THOUGHT:
When life gives you lemons…squirt the juice in your enemy’s eyes!!!
If the world were a logical place, men would be the ones who ride horses sidesaddle!!
Sunday, March 7, 2010
By: Author Unknown
It was a rainy night in New Orleans
At a bus station in the town,
I watched a young girl weeping
As her baggage was taken down.
It seems she'd lost her ticket
Changing buses in the night.
She begged them not to leave her there
With no sign of help in sight.
The bus driver had a face of stone
And his heart was surely the same.
"Losing your ticket's like losing cash money" he said,
And left her in the rain.
Then an old Indian man stood up
And blocked the driver's way
And would not let him pass before
He said what he had to say. LULU
"How can you leave that girl out there?
Have you no God to fear?
You know she had a ticket.
You can't just leave her here.
You can't put her out in a city
Where she doesn't have a friend.
You will meet your schedule,
But she might meet her end."
The driver showed no sign
That he'd heard or even cared
About the young girl's problem
Or how her travels fared.
So the old gentleman said,
"For her fare I'll pay.
I'll give her a little money
To help her on her way."
He went and bought the ticket
And helped her to her place
And helped her put her baggage
In the overhead luggage space.
"How can I repay," she said,
"the kindness you've shown tonight?
We're strangers who won't meet again
A mere ' 'thank you ' doesn't seem right."
He said, "What goes around comes around.
This I've learned with time -
What you give, you always get back;
What you sow, you reap in kind.
Always be helpful to others
And give what you can spare;
For by being kind to strangers,
We help angels unaware
Friday, February 26, 2010
Life is....
Life is an opportunity, …. benefit from it.
Life is beauty, …. admire it.
Life is bliss, …. taste it.
Life is a dream, …. realize it.
Life is a challenge, …. meet it.
Life is a duty, …. complete it.
Life is a game, …. play it.
Life is a promise, …. fulfill it
Life is sorrow, …. overcome it.
Life is a song, …. sing it.
Life is a struggle, …. accept it.
Life is a tragedy…. confront it.
Life is an adventure, …. dare it.
Life is luck, …. make it.
Life is too precious, …. do not destroy it.
Life is life, …. fight for it
Life is beauty, …. admire it.
Life is bliss, …. taste it.
Life is a dream, …. realize it.
Life is a challenge, …. meet it.
Life is a duty, …. complete it.
Life is a game, …. play it.
Life is a promise, …. fulfill it
Life is sorrow, …. overcome it.
Life is a song, …. sing it.
Life is a struggle, …. accept it.
Life is a tragedy…. confront it.
Life is an adventure, …. dare it.
Life is luck, …. make it.
Life is too precious, …. do not destroy it.
Life is life, …. fight for it
My Grand daughter, Dallas, age 10 yrs old!
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Well, Goodnight, blog.
I hope someone strolls through you tonight and keeps you company by reading all your posts and looking at your pictures. I hope its someone who needs you and that you cheer them up. Its been a long day but when isnt a day long? Now, it will be another long night, one of many, many long nights.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
My grandson, Robbie, winning award at school
This is the day he made his acceptance speech for the award, the sheriff shook his hand and we were all very proud of him. He is also developing great hunting/shooting skills. One cannot look at these pic's and even begin to know what this little boy has been and is going through health-wise. He is very brave. I am so proud to call him my grandson.
My 8 yr old g/son Dakota
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
World's tallest dog!
TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) - A 250-pound blue Great Dane from Arizona gives new meaning to the term "big dog."
Guinness World Records says Giant George from Tucson is the tallest dog ever on record.
Guinness said Monday that he stands 3 feet, 7 inches tall from paw to shoulder, which is three-quarters of an inch taller than his closest rival - Titan, a white Great Dane from San Diego.
The 4-year-old Titan took the title of world's tallest dog in 2009 after Gibson, a Great Dane from Grass Valley, Calif., died of bone cancer.
Guinness officials say there were conflicting reports about Giant George's height, so they sent a judge to verify it.
The 4-year-old is owned by David Nasser.
About My Friend/Sister's PC
As I have previously mentioned spirit bird has been down due to a virus/worm in her pc. She really worked over and over, refusing to give up, until she had it working again. I knew she was really going through hell thinking it was a lost cause but hanging in there anyway doing her best. Yesterday she sent me an email entitled "Pic of spiritbird (taken today)" I was so ashamed of myself, I laughed and still am laughing uncontrolably. My daughter came over this morning to see a current pic of her "Aunt Bird" and wish you could have been here to see her expression and hear her scream OMG and start laughing until she was bent over clutching her stomach.
Here is the pic of spiritbird after her pc ordeal"
But true to form she has recovered nicely. And this is what both of us wanted to do to her pc when it just sat there nearly 3 days not responding to anything it was supposed to respond to:
I just had to share this with you, dear blog! I will try to do better when I am not laughing so hard, LOL!! LOL!!!
Here is the pic of spiritbird after her pc ordeal"
I just had to share this with you, dear blog! I will try to do better when I am not laughing so hard, LOL!! LOL!!!Monday, February 22, 2010
Dear Blog,
Great news!! My dear friend/sister spirit bird is back on line and I am thrilled!!!! She has sent me some great forwards and we talked a lot making up for her being off line with her pc sick with that nasty worm/virus. It takes really evil people to even think of writing nasties against people they dont even know and ruining their computers. To go into ones computer and ruin it is no different than breaking into ones home. Why? Why do some people want to hurt other people like that? What do they get out of it? A perverted sense of Power? That isnt "power".....it's stupidity at its best. I feel sorry, in a way, for the people or person who did that to my friend/sister and to millions like her, my God, I only thought I didnt have a life!! I KNOW those poor bastards dont have one!!
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