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Monday, August 16, 2010

G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero 1987 (Hasbro)

Here it is, the long awaited updated version of the 1987 G.I. Joe toys.  This post has been one of the longest ones in the works as we updated it from our prior photographs to this all new, mint in package edition.  It's been a chore to say the least.

Much like an good Joe series, the figures are the heart and sole of the 1987 series, bringing with it several figures from the highly frowned upon G.I. Joe The Movie from Sunbow, as well as figures from the (at the time) all new DIC television series.  It may seem like a mish mash of figures, but it worked very well at the time, and today stands up as a solid line of figures in the Joe's plastic history.

Seventeen basic figures were produced for the line, elven of which were Joes, with only six being Cobra figures.  Way to be outnumbered there, snakes!

Hasbro also released the very intriguing, but poorly executed Battle Force 2000 sub series.  The figures weren't too bad, but the vehicles which promised a "build a base" feature really drove the nail in the coffin for what could have been a solid Joe branch from the main line.  See below for more details on that (vehicle section).

The group represented a high tech Joe squad that utilized experimental weapons in battle.  Though six were produced in 1987, the team actually consists of seven members.  The seventh figure would be released later in the G.I. Joe line (1989 AKA Series 8).
In an attempt to sell more of the Battle Force 2000 figures, Hasbro also produced three two packs.  Today collector's take great joy in finding both the single and duel packs for their collections.

Two three packs were produced based on the Sunbow film, and contained some of the most interesting figures based on the flopped movie - Sgt. Slaughters Marauders, and the infamous trio of Cobra-La.

The Marauders included Red Dog, Taraus and Mercer.  The Cobra-La set included Golobulus, Nemesis Enforcer and a Royal Guard.  Sadly a Pythona figure was never produced for the line - Something that to date still hasn't happened despite repeated fan requests of Hasbro.

No good Joe line is complete without mail away figures.  The mail away figure Starduster unfortuantely never found much popularity during its initial release, and was soon discarded for a much more popular mail away...

...Steel Brigade.  It's the figure that boasted that, "You can be the next Joe!"  Kids went nuts!

Each order form included several boxes that could be checked off, each of which picked your character's stats.  Was he an explosive expert?  A ninja?  Possibly a medic?  What about an explosive ninja medic?  Not only that, but you gave the figure its own unique name.  If that weren't enough to make any kid go bananas, Hasbro would print up your own unique file card.

The figure was so incredibly popular that six different versions exist.  The variations consist of different belts, chest straps, and holsters.  Out of the six versions, the rarest is the gold headed version.  This figure, while hard to find, is easy to spot because not only is the helmet a different color, but so is the clothing.
These days a "standard" Steel Brigade figure sells for About two hundred dollars, while the gold helmet edition goes from four to five hundred.
Two accessory packs were released in 1987.  The first continued the numbering from the battle gear "series" with number five, and the second was an all new Vehicle Accessory pack which contained various bombs and rockets.

New to the world of Joe was the motorized Action Packs.  Each wind up toy had not only a crank to perform its "motorized" action, but also an on/off switch so that you could crank it, and then play at your leisure.  The packs are incredibly easy to find loose, but most don't contain all the individual stickers that came packed in.

As usual, the series was rounded off with a fair amount of vehicles of all sizes and price ranges, some of which were packed with exclusive figures.

If you thought the kid down the street with the USS Flagg was a spoiled brat, his cousin down the block with the Defiant Space Vehicle Launch Complex must have been the Mayor of Spoiled Brats.  This massive playset, while not as large as the Flagg boasted more moving parts and fun than the Flagg ever could.

The eqaully impressive Mobile Command Center which folded out into three sections/levels was also released with the 1987 assortment.

Then there were the Battle Force 2000 vehicles which drew kids in with a heartbreaking promise that the vehicles could be combined to build the massive Future Fortress.  It was a lie!

Yes the parts could be used to build the fortress, but none of them actually hooked together.  Instead, you just put each piece next to the other, and created a square "parking lot" of part of the vehicles.  It was such a let down to kids.

On their own the vehicles are much more impressive as each breaks apart into two pieces, half of which was used for the "base".  Unfortunately the sub series never really took off the way that Hasbro intended, and with the exception of the one final figure and vehicle released in 1989 the line was silently scrapped, which made way for more sub lines such as Tiger Force and Night Force, but those are part of a whole new series that we'll talk about at a  later date.
Until then, we hope you've enjoyed our updated look at G.I. Joe 1987!

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1 comment:

  1. Out of these I'm having only Big Boa, Chuckles, Cobra Commander (in battle armor), Crazylegs, Croc Master, Law and Order and Sneak Peak

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Five things to know about the Plitvice Lakes in Croatia

plitvice lakes cascading waterfalls
The Plitvice Lakes – one of the most beautiful waterfalls I had come across.

I’ve had the fortune of visiting several waterfalls in Europe and Asia, but I would say the Plitvice Lakes has to be in my terms, ‘properly legit’. The Plitvice Lakes isn’t as broad as the Niagara Falls, neither is it as tall as the waterfalls I’ve been to in Taiwan, but it had one of the most amazing volume and number of waterfalls in a single location.

What I found intriguing were the endless gushing falls, which gave way to foamy bubbles each time the water came into contact with a rock. It was like a washing machine from nature, giving way to what seem to be soap suds floating on the surface of the water.

The Plitvice Lakes isn’t just about the waterfalls. It is also about the water. The azure, clear, green waters, so clear where you could see fish swimming beneath the surface, the feel of the cool water licking your fingers, it’s really the simple things that make you conclude – that the Plitvice Lakes is amazing.

Five things to know about the Plitvice Lakes in Croatia

1. Plitvice Lakes is beautiful, in all seasons

plitvice lakes summertime green water
In summer, the lakes are green. Even the water is.

The response to the question, ‘When is the best time to go’, will be met with the answer, all times are good. The Plitvice Lakes are open all year round and is best visited in summer when the daylight hours are longer. It really depends on what you’re looking for – be it green lakes, snow-covered falls or red autumn leaves, the Plitvice Lakes are beautiful throughout the seasons.

2. Short and long trails are available

plitvice lakes walking trails
Different sort of trails are available for viewing the lakes.

The Plitvice Lakes can be covered in a day, or if you would prefer to see more of the trails, you could cover it in 2D1N. There are accommodation venues located right outside the park, and some distance away. For a recommendation on affordable accommodation near the lakes, check out the write-up on Villa Jezerka.  There is a variety of trails to follow, those that range from 3-4 hours, to the longer trails which last for 6 hours.

3. Kid friendly? Yes, though mind the flooded trails!

plitvice lakes flooded trails summer
The trails can get submerged in water, so do prepare to get your shoes wet.

The paths are well maintained, and are easy on the knees. I spotted visitors of all demographics including children and toddlers at the park. However, do take note that there are certain areas in which the trails are submerged in water, hence do prepare to get your feet wet!

4. Enter through Entrance Gate 2 – the line is shorter

plitvice lakes entrance 2 marsh
The walk to Entrance 2 starts with a walk through marsh land.

The park opens at 7am in the morning and it is advisable to head there early to avoid the crowds. Entrance Gate 2 is less crowded in comparison to that of Entrance Gate 1 – that means you get your tickets in double-quick time. The path at Entrance Gate 2 is also less crowded – you get to spend more time with nature : )

5. Getting to Plitvice Lakes National Park – the bus ride is shorter from Zagreb

Plitvice lakes buses split road
The bus to Split/ Zagreb stops at the bus shelter along the main road.

If you’re planning to travel around Croatia, you could first start with Dubrovnik, move on to Split, the Plitvice Lakes and then leave the country from Zagreb. It’s better to leave from Zagreb rather than travel back to Split as the bus ride is almost twice as long.

Buses are available from the capital of Croatia, Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes (2 – 3 hours, HKR100/ SGD20/ USD14.80). The coach stops at Plitvicka Jezera along the way. From the bus station, Entrance Gate 2 to the Plitvice Lakes National Park is short 5-minutes walk away.

* * *

The Travelling Squid’s Take

plitvice lakes cascading waterfalls
It’s a sight to behold.

What I love most about the Plitvice Lakes is not just the clear green waters, the gushing foaming waterfalls, or water which flows elegantly against the rocks. I love it how unlike some nature reserves where one has to trek for 4 hours to get to a good vantage point, beauty is not hard to come by at the Plitvice Lakes. A 10 minute walk from Entrance Gate 1 and a series of cascading waterfalls await you.

A 15 minute walk from Entrance Gate 2 and you’ll come face to face with clear bluish-green pools of water. So clear that you could see fallen tree trunks, swimming fish and even coins. It is nature’s beauty at its most accessible, great for the elderly, kids and those who are not keen to go on arduous hikes.

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plitvice lakes green mosses sedimentation
Why is swimming not allowed in the Plitvice Lakes (and more)

If you're thinking of going for a dip in one of Plitvice's pristine lakes, and feel the beating of waterfalls...

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The Floral Bikini is a item in Club Penguin. It was/is in the Penguin Style.

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Coolest Summer Ever – Keeping cool at Disney

How to have the Coolest Summer Ever

Coolest Summer Ever

Splash Zone Grand Floridian

Summer is just around the corner, so let’s talk about how to stay cool when visiting Walt Disney World. Temperatures easily rise into the high 90sF, and many guests are not used to walking for miles under the scorching Florida sun.

First, start your touring day early. Be at the gates half an hour prior to park opening, ticket in hand and ready to go. Ride all your favorite attractions by noon and make sure you take a break in the afternoon. Enjoy the pool of your hotel. Rest, take a nap, and return to the parks in the cooler evening hours. If you stay at the Grand Floridian, the splash zone is amazing. The pool and splash pad area of Disney’s Art of Animation are totally cool, and so are the splash zone and pool at the Animal Kingdom Lodge.

Next, make sure that you and your family stay hydrated. Skip the soda and go for water, lots of water. You might have to remind the younger kids in your party to drink more often. Even at some of the parks there are ways to keep the kids cool. Bring a second set of clothes or a bathing suit and let the kids enjoy the splash zones. They are also a great way for kids to let off steam. Here are some of our favorite spots.

Keeping Cool at Walt Disney World

Coolest Summer Ever

At the Magic Kingdom the Casey Jr. Splash ‘N’ Soak Station in the Storybook Circus section of the New Fantasyland offers perfect relief on a hot summer day.

It is actually so much fun here that your child may not want to leave this area. Water spouts from all directions; when the time comes for you to leave and your child is not ready to go, you, too, will get soaked trying to retrieve your reluctant toddler.

At Epcot there are two splash zones for kids to cool off. One is located by Mission: SPACE and Test Track in Future World and another one at the Innoventions Pavilion.

Coolest Summer Ever

At Downtown Disney kids can enjoy two splash zones. One is located near The Days of Christmas shop, and another, larger splash zone is near Once Upon A Toy, next to the Earl of Sandwich. This spot is my favorite. I love watching the children running through the water jets. There are plenty of benches for parents to sit and enjoy watching the kids trying to figure out where the next water jet is going to pop up.

Again, make sure you bring a set of dry clothes, and, most of all, keep shoes from getting wet. Walking around in wet sneakers is a recipe for blisters. Drinks lots of fluids, slap on the sunscreen, and enjoy the coolest summer ever!

Coolest Summer EverFor more tips on visiting Walt Disney World with Kids check out our daily tips on Facebook.

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Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Name That Child

For safety reasons I have decided to give my kids different names. The title of my blog is a take on the book The Very Hungry Caterpillar. So I named my kids after the fruit that the Caterpillar eats. When you hear me refer to "Apple" (my daughter), "Pear"(my first son) and "Plum"(my baby boy). I will be referring to my 3 beautiful children.

1 comment:

Donna said...

Hi Tammy,
I know you are trying to protect your children's identities, but in15 minutes I was able to identify your son and daughter's full names, the schools they attend and the city they live in. I am not a threat just a concerned grandma letting you know that their identities are easily found out from the info on your blog. I am also a Latter Day Saint and found your blog linked from other blogs. I am enjoying the content and have put you on my favorites list. Donna

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31 December 2013

6:38 PM

Last New Year's Eve I excitedly created my 30 Before 30 list of all the wonderful things I wanted to focus on accomplishing over the next 18 months.  I've had a blast checking some things off the list....and still have quite a few to go!

This NYE, I'm a bit more pensive.  For starters, I didn't sleep last night at all.  I was suffering from a migraine that was undoubtedly stressed induced - from work, from personal stuff, from life.

2013 has been an amazing year.  I have opened my heart wide again after a very long time, traveled alot - BaltimoreCalifornia, Indianapolis, Vegas, Delaware, LALondonParis, and Baltimore again.  This year has been amazing!

I have been feeling really excited about the new year.  I am excited about being more disciplined this year in order to cross off some of the major items on my 30 list like being debt free.  I'm excited about the things that are going to happen in my Scentsy business, the 25th anniversary we will be celebrating at work, my son growing more and more, and the #365journalchallenge.  Yet tonight I find myself in a very quiet, unexcited mood.

Most people reading this are probably thinking...geesh...what a drab way to bring in a new year.  The reason I am being totally transparent in this moment is because I think it is important to share that with all the joy comes some very difficult nights.  I have had more sleepless nights and appetite-less days at the end of this year than I have had in several years.  As my spirit feels greater things coming in 2014, so too do I know that with all the great moments comes a bit of struggle.  The late in the midnight moments where it's me and God....and I'm begging Him to pull me through.

I've been humbled a lot over the past year.  I have always prayed that my transparency would bless someone and help them.  I have prayed over and over again for God to enlarge my territory to allow more people to experience His love.

So part of my pensive attitude tonight is because I am a bit overwhelmed.  I'm overwhelmed by my dear sister friend who wrote me and said "thank you for being you and loving me back to life'.  I'm overwhelmed by my dear sister friend who wrote me and said " thank you for the many talks and just feeding me spiritually". I'm overwhelmed by the YouTube comment saying "I can tell you really love The Lord".  People make these comments to me and have no idea the major impact they have on me.  Just typing this brings me to tears.

Because, I'm honestly just a messed up girl from Alamogordo, New Mexico who has had to learn lessons from life  - sometime the really hard way. (hence my #niecyisms).  I love the Lord with all my heart and yet I fail Him every single day of my life.  I want to be a supermom to my son but yet sometimes I just need peace and quiet to sit with my thoughts and I don't want to play Uno or read a book.  My relationship with my son's father is not the best right now, and yet God called me to lead people to connect with Him daily through the #365journalchallenge.  I constantly am pouring into myself so that out of my overflow I have something to give to others.  So when dear friends tell me I've "loved them back to life or fed them spiritually" or inspired them..or helped them....I don't know whether to feel like a fraud or to thank God for His grace.  Of course I know it's nothing but His grace.

I think part of my mood this evening is because I have a feeling that God is about to call me deeper this year.  Which means my messed up self has to do my work.  Everything you see me post. Every #niecyism, every #365journalchallenge post, has been ministered to me first and I have had to sit with myself, my messed up self, and work through it.  Because I know how much I've labored in this, I am a bit terrified of what the battle will be like when He chooses to take me deeper.

Then I just have to be real myself and acknowledge that part of my mood is because I feel like something I prayed for, fasted for, waited for is slipping away from me faster than I can hold on.  So tonight is also a night of letting go and letting God.  Afterall, no matter the outcome, I desire His will above anything I could hope or dream.  Period.

This is absolutely not a woe is me post.  I am giddy with anticipation for what God is going to do in 2014.  I'm just taking a different approach to entering it this year.  I've literally been praying since last night, and since I haven't been to sleep, I've written about 12 pages in my prayer journal off and on today.

Thank you for sowing in to my life.  Thank you for your messages that say I inspire you. Thank you for allowing God to use me to touch your heart.  It is simply an overflow of how He is touching mine. Your notes bless me in ways you could not imagine.

This year I pray to let my life speak love.  Use me Lord.

Happy New Year!

26 December 2013

The Prayer Project

7:04 PM

Recently, I was having a conversation with my love about how social media can be a major force for good or a huge source of distraction.  Today is an example of it being a major force for good.

While scrolling through my timeline, I came across this photo which had been posted by @keetaray.  I followed it to @saunyaaa's blog and fell in love.

The concept is so simple yet so major. Choose one person. Commit to pray for them for 30 days.  This is a practice that I talked about here at The Virtuous Home earlier this year and one I've been employing for a few years. It has gotten me through some bitter places.

I think this is a marvelous way to start off the #365journalchallenge, especially if you have concerns about committing to what to write about every day.

Leave a comment below and let me know if you will be participating. Have you gotten your journal yet?

20 December 2013

One Little Word - 2014

10:12 AM
For the past 3 years, I have created a theme word to live by for that year.  My theme word for 2010 was Encore 2010, 2011 was Increase 2011, 2012 and 2013 were both Glory.  My word is a little secret written on my heart of what I am expecting God to do in my life for that year.  They all hold significance.
In 2010,  I was desperate for God to do some things in my life again that He had done before.  I had just left Baltimore and moved home with my 18-month old son.  I left everything I had, including my house and job, in Baltimore.  So when the new year came, I had to have God do some things in my life that He had done - like blessing me with a fantastic job, a new home, and the ability to provide for my son.
In 2011, I prayed for increase.  God had kept me miraculously through 2010, but it wasn't easy.  I faced some of my most challenging days during that year.  I was so grateful that He kept me, but I wanted an increase in the next year.  Increase in my faith.  Increase in my influence. Increase in my mothering. Increase in my finances. Increases across the board in my life.
After asking God to give me an encore in 2010 and provide increase in 2011, I wanted to make sure His glory was seen because it was certainly only by His hand that I made it through those two years and that the doors that opened wide for me were even there. For the past two years His glory has revealed itself in every area of my life.  While He has remained completely faithful and steady to me, I cannot say I have done the same in return.
As I reflected over my journey the past few years and just how good He has been to me, when I tell you I don't look like what I've been through, don't try to figure it out, just believe me.  So in 2014, my one little word is all about being disciplined.  Practicing discipline in my faith. Discipline in my thoughts. Discipline in my talk. Discipline in my actions. Discipline in my finances. Discipline in my fitness. Discipline in my motherhood. Discipline. Period.
I am excited to write this (not-so) secret on my heart and commit to it.
Do you set an intention for the new year?  What is your one little word?

19 December 2013

School Style - Leather & Suede

7:43 AM
Leather Bomber Jacket (JcPenny last year), Flannel Shirt (Target), Jeans (Children's Place), Suede Botas (Target), Backpack (Pottery Barn Kids), Smile (Jesus in His heart!)

This guy brings me so much joy. He's just so cool! I love watching him develop his own sense of style (which is of course influenced by what I'm willing to buy) but he totally puts his own flavor on it! Love him.

11 December 2013

My 2014 planning looks something like...

4:28 PM

I have been anxious to begin my reflection of 2013 and to start planning for 2014.  I needed to find time to be still, get quiet, and think.  2013 has been good to me. Not perfect, but good.  There were things I wanted to do that I have been fortunate enough to do, like travel to London.  I have matured alot this year. I made some major changes, like choosing to switch churches. I opened my heart to love, and what an amazing love it Is. I really could go on and on.

As I sat down today to reflect while writing in my journal, I realize overwhelmingly that 2013 has brought me a joy that is unwavering, a resolve that is sure, and a confidence in the Lord that is more certain than ever.

2013 has been good to me.

People make resolutions every year but at the beginning of 2013 I set strong intentions. Intentions that life would get better, it would be great, and all the circumstances surrounding me were conspiring to make a life worthy of my calling.

Life showed up for me.

Which is why spending time being intentional about my desires and plans and laying them before The Lord is so important. I have seen the power in having a vision, writing it down, and getting to work.

2014 is only 20 days away.  So I took time today to sit, think, dream. I love the desk calenders from Barnes & Noble.  I have used them for the past 4 years.  I have my prayer journal as well because I want to commit my plans to the Lord before I plan anything.  I also found some fun metallic pencils at Barnes & Noble (Munchkin don't touch!).  Combine that with some Panera Bread Green Tea, and I was a happy girl.  I am excited and expectant for what 2014 holds!

09 December 2013

4:55 AM

I believe in the power of writing every day.  It is my form of prayer and peace.

I have kept a journal for as long as I can remember.  One of the closets at my parents house has several of my journals from my childhood stored away.  Writing has always been a way to get the over thought thoughts out of my head.  It has been a way to express myself. Free myself.  To pray.

Several years ago when life hit me really hard, my journal was really my only escape.  No one knew the depths of the pain I was experiencing, or how deep the hurt had gone.  No one knew just how close to breaking I really came....but my journals.  As I look back over that time, being able to pour all of my emotions onto those pages rescued me.  Journaling has rescued me over and over again. (Matthew 11:28).

When we think. We pray.  When I write. I pray.  It is such a powerful way to record our prayers and be able to look back at all the places God answered in our lives.   It is revealing to look back to see those times when we thought God was being silent in our lives....and to discover He actually was answering our prayers..it just didn't look like what we were expecting.

At the start of 2013, I decided to issue a #365journalchallenge to encourage people to take time each day to write.  For me, it is my prayer.  For you it may be your creative outlet.  Whatever it is for you, let it be.

Life is busy for so many of us.  I can hardly count the days they seem to be going by so quickly.  I have had to become extremely intentional about taking the time to connect with God, to be still, get quiet, and calm my spirit.  I have an appointment set on my calendar every morning at 5:30am for coffee with Christ.  I am in no way perfect, but I try to keep our appointments.  This time sets my day straight, orders my steps, and gives me the confidence I need to face this life. It brings me joy.

I need to get alone with God and quiet my desire for the world's feedback and the crazy train thoughts that often play in my head in order to hear His voice.

So when I started the #365journalchallenge my desire was to inspire my circle of influence to slow down and take the time for themselves.  It was also to help hold me accountable to journaling every day.  My journaling time is rooted in my faith, because at the very essence it is who I am.  There are days where I don't feel like doing it. There are days where I'm too busy, too tired, too this, too that to open that little notebook.  I wanted to created this community so that on those days where we are seeking inspiration, we can glean from each other.

So how does the challenge work?  You commit.  Commit that for 365 days, you will stop to slow down and connect.  Each day doesn't need to be 5 pages of journaling.  Even if you just stop to simply say "thank You".  There are several days in my journal where the only words written are "Lord, help" or "Your will".  That is enough.

Once you commit, have a journal on hand.  Preparation is key and without having a journal on hand, you're not going to keep your promise.  I love pretty journals with inspiring sayings.  It can be as simple as a notebook or you can go all out.  Whatever you want.

I love to have devotional books and inspirational books on hand to prompt me. Some days I use them. Some days I honestly don't want to be bothered.  Having thoughts to ponder and to reflect on helps focus me in my sometimes dizzying world on the One  I am seeking to connect with most.

Finally, share.  I will post prompts and inspirations on instagram using #365journalchallenge.  If something you see during your day to day inspires you, please share with us there so others can glean from your inspiration. You can also see any prompts I post on pinterest and share.

Thank you for joining me on this journey and for being an accountability partner with me.  I am excited about the many blessings that await you and watching the glory of the Lord revealed in your life!

The Lord will fight for you.  You need only to be still. Exodus 14:14

08 December 2013

5:06 AM

Every now and then I step on my soap box. This week was one of them. An acquaintance from college posted a question on Facebook about why any woman would move a man's son away from him if the two don't work out. Of course the comments to this status were all about how women are vindictive and hurt and ya ya ya.

Then the rest of the week his posts were simply inappropriate. Because of experience, my alert was heightened. Around the same time that I was thinking about this, a great giant, Nelson Mandela, was called to rest. My spirit started brewing about the gap that exists between who we say we are and who we  really are. The respect we demand for who we say we are, versus the respect that is worthy of who we are.

It is a challenge. To be the man worthy of the respect you demand. It is hard to be a person of moral character. To do the right thing even when no one is watching. To not count what will get the most "likes" on Instagram, but to live a life that is worthy of respect. You can't demand respect when you inhale and exhale unrespectable words and deeds at the same time. Let your breathe match.

Stepping off of soap box.

04 December 2013

Buy Direct

4:56 AM

As many of you know, I run a small independent business as a Scentsy Family Independent Director.  This business has blessed my life tremendously.  Not only financially, but also through the customers I have met who have become friends, the many amazing people whose lives I've been blessed to cross, the ability to travel, and the list goes on and on!

I have also made connections with some other amazing direct sellers over the past  few years.  I want to encourage everyone I know to buy direct this Holiday season.  This caption above is so true for me.  My Scentsy business has allowed me to provide for my son in a major way.  So to every single person who has ever purchased a warmer, bar of wax, lightbulb, purse, chocolate from me....THANK YOU!

If you read this and are a direct seller and I don't have you listed, please let me know and I'll add you!

Buy Direct

Home Goods

Jewelry & Accessories

Purses and Bags

Make-Up and Beauty Products

02 December 2013

Love People

5:28 AM
Life teaches each of us daily if we are open to receiving the lesson.  Last week when I found myself in a bit of a cloud, I realized it was because I was allowing someone's attitude that I deeply care about to determine my security in a situation and my feelings surrounding it.   Once I snapped out of it and started honoring how blessed I truly am and that I really have nothing to worry about, everything started to shift.

From that lesson I felt like my spirit was screaming at me to be constant.  When you love someone you don't have to go on the roller coaster ride with them when they are going through hard places and seasons.  Certainly, the people who love you don't need to be expected to go on the roller coaster ride with you.  Love is patient. Kind. Constant.  Be the constant. Be the consistent force.

Love through it.

01 December 2013

6:42 AM

Not only did we celebrate a huge Thanksgiving this week with about 30 loved ones, but we through my dad a surprise 60th birthday party the day after with family and friends from all over.

My dad is a gentle giant. He is the one person who never wants anything, gives more to everyone else, and is always there when you need him. Words would underestimate the man that he is.

My sister and I knew he'd be highly upset if he knew we were planning anything for him. We just felt we had to. Not to make him happy but to honor the amazing dad he is to us and the amazing grandpa he is to our kids. His selflessness is unmatched.

I think you can tell the measure of a man by his relationships. The fact that him and my mom have been married for 35 years, he talks to my Granny every single night on the phone, he started a business to leave a legacy for his kids and his grandchildren, he has friends that came from all over the country to celebrate him speaks volumes.

It was completely special because our children had such amazing things to say about their grandpa. I know for me and my Munchkin, grandpa is the reason we are back in Albuquerque. He's the greatest role model of a man I could err dream of my son growing up around.

We hosted the event at Papadeaux's Seafood Kitchen in their large private room. It was a really great atmosphere that opened to the patio and was simply perfect for the feel of this occasion.

Happy birthday Dad!

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Tag Archives: development enviroment

Adjusting Notepad++ to work with an ASP VBScript project.

I have a large project in classic ASP, VBScript, and Javascript. It’s a hassle dealing with it because developer tools don’t support it that well or at all. I recently poked around the open source editor Notepad++ and got it adjusted to work decently well with the project. Check out Notepad++ on the official website here. In the past I had used Eclipse with an old VBScript ASP syntax highlighter. … Continue reading

Posted in ASP, Development Enviroment, Notepad++ | Tagged , , , , , , , | Comments


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Friday, October 26, 2012

OgunquitFest 2012 Winners

Littlefield Village's winning entry in the scarecrow contest (photo by John Hurley)

The 4th Annual OgunquitFest was held last weekend, featuring wild costumes, crazy races, fun for all and funds raised for some good charities.
Contest and race winners are listed below, as well as a mention of the beneficiaries and the money raised.

OgunquitFest Scarecrow Contest:
1st place: Littlefield Village
2nd place: Anchorage by the Sea
3rd place: Beachfire Bar & Grille

High Heel Dash:
Best Time: Lance Powers
Highest Heel: Bryan Wilson (platform); Robert Coles (non-platform)
Most Outrageous Costume: “Gigi”

Money raised from registration for the High Heel Dash and donations from the crowd during the race generated more than $2,000 for the Frannie Peabody Center in Portland. The donations included a check for $500 from Donato Tramuto, local business owner. This is the 4th annual high heel dash and Frannie Peabody has been the charity recipient all four years.

Bridge to Beach Bed Race:
Best Time: Meadowmere Resort
Second Best Time: Anchorage by the Sea
Old Timers
Best Time: Hot Flashes
People’s Choice: Hot Flashes
Beautiful Bed by the Sea (best costumes & decorations): Meadowmere Resort
Broken Spring Award (craziest): Hot Flashes

Money raised from the Bridge to Beach Bed Race went to the American Cancer Society the Animal Welfare Society, and the Marginal Way Preservation Fund. More than $3,000 total raised for those three organizations.


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Monday, April 6, 2009

The Definition of the word Literally:

1. strictly adhering to basic meaning: in a way based on the basic or explicit meaning of a word or text.

2. without exaggeration: used to show that a statement is actually true and not exaggerated

I always find it so cute when kids take the things we say literally, when we are not meaning to be literal.

For example:

We were staying at my brother in laws house during one of our visits to California, my nice Kaylee asked me to do her hair. When I was about done I told her "okay I just have to tease it now, then your done." she looked at me a with a sad face asked me "Your going to make fun of my hair?" I then explained that teasing hair means to get a little volume out of it, to give a more polished, finished look. So when I finished and she was pleased with her hair she saw that I didn't literally mean to tease her hair.

Another example my sister told me about was during a shopping trip her Angela was doing something that made Jennifer tell her to "put a sock in it." Well as kids do Jennifer later looked over and found her literally with her sock in her mouth.

My final example is today at breakfast when we were running a little late and Parker was on his 3rd piece of french toast asked if I would cut it for him. Since he didn't have any syrup on it I told "just use your hands" so after a minute or so he announces "it's not working" I look over to find him literally using his hand like a knife to cut his toast.

I guess it's hard for kids to know and understand when we mean what we actually are saying. But stories like those make life fun and interesting and I mean that literally.

The Fergy Bunch said...

LOL =) I like how Kaylee thought you were going to make fun of her hair! And I love how Parker was using his hand to cute his breakfast - that's so cute! I had forgotten about Angela and her sock, that still cracks me up! Who would of thought the girl would literally put her sock in her mouth! LOL =) Great post!

Tera said...

Those were some funny examples. They made me giggle! You are right. Kids are so literal. Brynna is the most literal of all my kids. I will call her stinkin' silly and she thinks I called her stinky!

Sunflourmom said...

Kids are just so funny!

lovebuglw said...

Ha, Ha, that's hilarious! Though, Tyson would say the same about me! It's taken me a while to figure out when he's serious and when he's not. I've always been very literal, literally! LOL =)


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January 2, 2012

Disney On Ice Dare To Dream PreSale and ticket giveaway (Boston)

Congratulations to Life with Four.
Happy New Year to you all.
What better way to begin the new year then to
have a giveaway for the family.
coming to Boston in February just in time for the winter break
is Disney On Ice Dare To Dream.
 More about this incredible show:

Get tangled up in the newest thrilling show to hit the ice, Disney On Ice presents Dare to Dream. Experience Disney’s hilarious hair-raising escapade, Tangled; as Rapunzel, her unlikely companion, Flynn, and Maximus, embark on an uproarious journey that takes adventure to new lengths!  Boogie to the beat of the bayou with Princess Tiana and Prince Naveen in a magical, musical journey that all begins with a fateful kiss.  And fanciful dreams become reality as Cinderella meets her Prince Charming, with a glass slipper fit for an unforgettable fantasy come true. All your favorite princesses take to the ice in a spectacular finale at the ultimate Disney Princess event of a lifetime!  Experience the beauty, sparkle, and spirit when Disney On Ice presents Dare to Dream comes to your hometown!

Playing Friday February 17th through Sunday February 26th at the TD Garden
3 Easy Steps To Purchase pre-sale discounted tickets available till January 5th, so hurry!
Step 1: Choose your performance
Step 2: Under Advance or Promotion Ticket Selection, choose the $25 price level
Step 3: Enter code EARLYMOM
Fri. FEB. 17 at the 7:00 PM performance.
 (Excludes Rinkside, VIP and Club seats. No double discounts. Cannot be used for prior purchases or group sales orders. Additional service charges, handling and facility fees will apply. Please note that prices reflected on Ticketmaster.com INCLUDE service charges and facility fees. Select “Price Details” on the purchase page to confirm any discounts.)

Watch a sneak peek of the show:

How to enter to win the family four pack of tickets good for the
opening night show Friday February 17th at 7:00 PM

How to Enter:
Leave me a comment telling me who your favorite Disney character is?
Follow Our Crazy Bunch

Giveaway will end on Wednesday January 11, 2012

Please make sure to include your email in your comment.

  1. Genie from "Aladdin" made me fall for Disney movies all over again as an adult--love his humor!! New fave character is Rapunzel from "Tangled"

  2. Apparently we can't decide which princess is our favorite and it has turned into my child talking non-stop about EVERY disney princess and why they are the best! I need those tickets just so I can get a little peace and quiet! :) I do have to say Rapunzel is my favorite tho!

  3. Oh, forgot my email walker_jason@hotmail.com

  4. a great show! I am your newest follower, pls follow back if you can!

  5. Belle...I love Belle!! My 3 year old currently loves just about any princess she sees. She's especially fond of Cinderella and Tinkerbell.

  6. Our favorite character is Mickey.

    tatesfj40 at yahoo dot com


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Wednesday, October 23, 2013

back to black (beans)

Well, I'm officially bike-broke. I bought a beautiful, fantastic, sexy strong creature of a lefty full-suspension mountain bike. That, along with my car payments, means that I can't go to the good grocery store and eat whatever I want whenever I want anymore. Sob.

So I'd better damn get into eating cheap, but eating well. I don't have the ability to just go to the store and buy cheap packaged meals. I'm fighting a constant battle with migraines, fatigue and interstitial cystitis, and anything besides whole foods will destroy me.
So! I gotta teach myself to cook cheap and be creative, make the most of what I got in the house.

Today I made a meal based on FREE brown rice and black beans from Earthfare, the store that randomly gives away food. I cooked the rice in chicken broth, which in my opinion makes it tasty enough to eat alone.

I had leftover truffle oil and half an onion, a whole lot of garlic, frozen corn, and the drained/rinsed black beans. A tiny bit of leftover cheddar and the last of an avocado, a handful of crushed blue corn chips, and that's it.

To drink, I'm sticking with juicing carrots which are cheap, cheaper than the kale and beats I like to juice, and I added an apple and half a lime. I'm not supposed to have lime with IC, but we'll see if I can get away with this.

I know this is as simple as it gets, but it's a big deal for me that I didn't run out and buy kale, cilantro, avocado and pico de gailo, which is what I'd normally do for a meal like this, all in the name of health. But you can't spend what you don't have, no matter how noble the purposes.

If I keep the house stocked with beans, brown rice, onions, olive oil, frozen corn, carrots and apples, hopefully I'll at least never go hungry....

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Before & After

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Monday, July 5, 2010

Small town USA July 4th

July 4th in a small neighborhood in Spring, Texas, was like thousands of small towns throughout the United States on this occasion. Starting with a bicycle parade ending at the local community park, a hundred or so residents gathered to have a picnic and watch fireworks.
Lovely people of all ages munched on something cold or something spicy in the heat of the Houston area. It is always hot on July 4th, and this year was no different.

Whoever wanted to get sweaty in the heat were welcome to join in a game of volleyball using a makeshift "net" but without the net. All that was important were the people and the ball. From there, we had a volleyball game! Amazingly, after such rains over the past week, there were no mosquitoes to bother people.

Some young people were driving a mule around just to enjoy the social aspect afforded by the event. They were dressed in red, white and blue. Even the mule four-wheeler was dressed out in national colors.

The fun goes beyond the people. You need to bring your pet to such an event. This boxer was seen to almost endlessly wag his tail as he greeted each person or dog that came along. People dressed the way they wanted for the event. Some came in colorful shirts, shorts, hats or whatever. This dog wore a red white and blue band bandanna.

For sure, July 4th provides many photo opportunities for families and friends.  This pretty lady got in my lens when she was using her lens.

Over the loud speaker you could hear the announcement throughout the park: " we will have fireworks at dusk. This is a reminder that we are raising money to replace a Live Oak Tree that was destroyed by winds last year. Come get some lemonade or other item to help us raise the finds we need, as exhibited by the fund raising sign. Remember - to have fireworks, we need your contributions each year for the fireworks display. The association cannot pay for it because of the risk. The association dues are not for that purpose."

The voluntary fire department was of course there as a first responder for any problems associated with fireworks. The announcer made sure she got the point across why the community fireworks display is a good idea. It is to displace the personal use of fireworks. They are dangerous and create a risk to people and property. Little did she know that this night would underscore her words with an exhibit of what can happen. While families gathered in the evening, the fire department provided children with the opportunity to hear and see the sirens and lights and water spraying from the truck. That is always a hit and a very good tradition at about every small town fireworks display.

Friends found each other here and some out-of-towners had not seen each other or seen old time friends for a  long time.

People caught up on one another, including the teens and even in this modern Facebook instant real time era where the exchange of life's events occur daily.

And then the guys prepared to shoot the fireworks.

As the sun began to set and move behind the horizon, the time was approaching to celebrate America's independence by tune and by fireworks. Now the music began.
Suddenly, here came the fireworks.

The skies were filled with explosions and color.

Spectators were fairly close to the source but far enough away where the remnants of the burning display would not fall on clothes or start a fire. The materials fell harmlessly on the grass reserved for that purpose. There was hardly any wind, helping to mitigate any fire risk.

Then everything seemed to go wrong!  Oh no!!! Cried some spectators. What has happened? The entire source area turned into a burning inferno. One misfired cracker started a a chain reaction that was frightening! Suddenly a beautiful fireworks display turned sour. The crowd gasped in horror, holding their breath, praying that no one was hurt. Fortunately on this night, the technicians putting on the event were not hurt. They departed the area immediately when the first cracker went awry. These people were trained to react to the incident, and the fire department was trained to respond.  Within 20 minutes, the technicians recovered the remaining explosives and announced that the display would go on, and it did. If a private untrained person had been conducting this display, it might not have had such a good ending. But this story ended with more fireworks, a resumed effort and determined crew wished to remember the event, not by the incident, but by the very much appreciated recovery from the incident.

Happy birthday America : from Hometown America.

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TIME TO RAGE-IFY | Overwatch: Part 30

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TIME TO RAGE-IFY | Overwatch: Part 30

Postby TheMercenaree Fri May 19, 2017 9:50 pm

Today we do a couple rounds of No Limits because I haven't done any in a long time. I play as Winston for possibly the first time. We also do a 1v1 and somehow I end up getting the most points that I have ever received in that.

If you want to watch more of my videos, then click that link in my signature.

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Saturday, 27 September 2014

#280: Pay down my debt

One of the things I'm most proud of achieving in the aftermath of my break-up was that I was able to buy my Ex out of the home we bought jointly, renovated together and lived happily in for 5+ years. No relationship is perfect, and obviously ours had some fundamental problems (which I didn't see at the time), but despite all that I absolutely loved my life and my home was a big reason for that. One of the things that made the initial stages of our split so terrifying and awful was the prospect of not only losing my love, but also losing my home and daily habits associated with it and where I lived.

While I was able to scrimp and stretch every last cent, it also required me to take on more debt. This was an absolute necessity at the time, but the debt is at a level that, long term, I'm not comfortable with. So earlier this year I put a budget together to help keep me on track and start saving enough to pay down meaningful chunks of debt for the next 3 years. I have a long way to go before I'm debt free, but I've passed a significant milestone in reducing the debt load I'm carrying.

Photo credit: iQoncept, Creativa Images / Shutterstock

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Tuesday, 30 November 2010

Five Quarters of the Orange by Joanne Harris

This book is charming and delicious. Joanne Harris always does a good job describing food in all varieties which makes my mouth water. But not only that. The five Quarters of the Orange is tale about a mother who has to raise her three children alone in France during second world war. She tries best but especially in the eyes of her youngest daughter Framboise she fails. Framboise gets in contact with a young German soldier and happens to attend an accident at the river Loire where the young soldier drowns. She and her brother decide to cover up the accident as they don't want anybody to know they had regular contact with him. The family has to leave the little Les Laveuses. When Framboise is grown up and a widow she decides to come back home but that nobody needs to know her true identity and opens a soon good-running crèperie. But her past will get to her sooner or later.

The story is told by Framboise being an old lady revealing the truth about the accident and of course what Oranges have got to do with it at all.

Very much is told about the relationships between mothers and daughters and the life in small villages in France during the second world war as well as today, which I liked. Harris' style is unique and somehow magical. I think that this book is at least as good as Chocolat.

I give it three stars and a half. Rounded up to four.

Friday, 12 November 2010

Solaris by Stanislaw Lem

First of all I never read science fiction. Second of all I don’t like novels taking place in space. Solaris has both of it. But the man I love loves this book and after having ignored him asking me to read it for a long time now, I finally gave in.

At the beginning I couldn’t get into the book very well. This is because I lack imagination concerning technical and spacey things and doings. But after thirty pages or so it went better. The main character Kelvin visits the planet Solaris for research. But as he gets there he realizes that strange things are going on. Solaris is covered by a big ocean of a glibbery mass which seems to be orange or blue or black depending on the daytime and the both suns orange and blue accompanying Solaris.

All three researchers on Solaris are having “guests”. Those guests behave and act like people who only exist in the minds of the researchers, as Kelvin’s guest for example is his young wife who had killed herself after Kelvin left her some years ago.

The big questions are: what kind of trick of mind is that? What has the ocean got to do with it? And how can one get rid of “guests” in order to stay sane?

Have I already mentioned that I actually do not read books of this kind? This has got a reason. But Lem’s writing wasn’t all in all bad or boring to me. He writes in a descriptive and often philosophical manner. But still I’m not sure I got his message for I don’t know if I got the right meaning of the ocean. But of course this could be intentionally and everybody is going to come up with something different. I hope so.

I think I’m going to stand back from science fiction for now as I had my portion for this year.

I’m going to give ★ ★ ★ under reserve.

Sunday, 7 November 2010

Literary Blog Hop

Literary Blog Hop

This blog hop is hosted by The Blue Bookcase. It is made for bloggers who mainly blog and review about classic literature or literary fiction.

This weeks task is to highlight one of my favorite books and why I think it to be literary. So here it goes:

I think it may be easier to describe why a book is not literary than why I think it is. First of all a literary book is not what everybody enjoys to read but I do. That does not necessarily mean I enjoy every literary book I read. Take Madame Bovary for an example. I did not like it at all. This may be because I read a horrible German translation of it, but that topic would be worth another post. I did like Lolita, The Dud Avocado or The Elegance of a Hedgehog though just to name a few.

Next a literary book has no shallow main characters. That means the character could be an idiot but soon discovers he is one and tries to change it. Characters need to develop during the course of a book. Those who stay the same all along are not interesting. Take Pride and Prejudice for an example the one is pride the other is prejudiced but both overcome that nasty flaws of character and get together.

A literary book is not coming without a social standpoint or other question of morality. It gives the ambitious reader what he or she wants. Something to think about, to get along with or completely disagree.

At last the style of an author who writes literary books is not the same as the one of any other author. The use of language is the channel which affects the reader. Everything like feelings, thoughts, actions and moods are transmitted by it. Take To kill a Mockingbird. I totally connected with the style of Harper Lee so that it was a pure pleasure to read it.

The Dud Avocado by Elaine Dundy

This is a gorgeous book with a gorgeous heroine. Sally Jay Gorce sets out to take two years for herself in Paris in the late 1950s. She wants to get to know life and be independent. There she has love affairs and is trying to become an actress. But of course very much can go wrong being a young American in Paris. Sally Jay loses her passport and later on she has to discover that it has been stolen from her by one of her dearest friends.

The book is witty and funny. What it has to say about life has to be read between the lines. But one thing is for sure one does not need to live in Paris to get to know life. Although I tend to have this romantic thoughts about Paris too.

To the question how much biographical this book was, Elaine Dundy answered that all the impulsive, outrageous things her heroine does, she did herself. But all the sensible things Sally did, she made up.

I'm going as far as to say that this one hilarious, charming and romantic book is going to make it very high on my top ten list for 2010.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★!


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Football: after optimism fails, England fans try low expectations.

I’m not a football fan, in any of its forms.  I don’t follow a football (soccer) club.  But I do get swept into the excitement of the big international championships that take place every two years: the European Cup and the World Cup.  The European Cup for 2012 has started but there’s almost no visible excitement in this football-mad nation (England – here not the other British nations) – so there’s nothing to be swept by.  The Jubilee Union Jacks are slowly coming down – but few George Crosses are replacing them.  What is happening?

I think that what we are seeing is the playing out of two competing theories of motivation amongst pop-psychologists and sports coaches.  First: nothing succeeds like optimism.  Second: excessive expectations only bring disappointment.

The first theory has become very fashionable.  Various statistical studies, at least in the myth, have shown that high expectations improve performance.  So it helps to think that you are going to win.  This type of thinking is now deep in the popular culture – as you can see from the silly boasting by contestants in reality TV contests, replacing the formerly very British (or anyway English) modesty.  But England football fans have tested this idea to destruction – going into contests with high expectations, and much talk of how we can win.  The results (especially the 2010 World Cup) have been dismal.

So the alternative theory gains ground.  Teams can be paralysed by the weight of high expectations; they often peform better when they have less to prove.  And indeed some of the most memorable England football performances have been when the team has been written off (I still remember beating Germany 5-1 in a qualifying match a decade or so ago).  It seems that the county’s fans have taken this idea seriously; keeping mum about the side’s chances, in the hope that this will improve the performance.

Meanwhile I may well miss England’s first match tomorrow – consciousness is so low that somebody is try to arrange a meeting that conflicts with it!


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Thursday, July 28, 2016

I'm in Colorado with my family, and it's been great! It's lovely here, and we've had so much fun together. Our accommodations are fairly roomy, but there's still the issue of waking people up if you try to go in the kitchen to make coffee. I don't wanna wake anyone too early...Paynes need sleep and lots of it. We got up early yesterday to take a train ride, so today is for sleeping in. However...somewhere along the last body has done this weird thing. It has switched things around in me, and now I can barely hold my eyes open past 10 pm and can barely stay asleep past 7:30/8:00. It's so weird and so wrong. Actually I don't mind getting up earlier as long as it's not by an alarm clock. I have enjoyed quiet mornings sipping coffee and meditating on all things big and little. Except our house is currently chaos right now as we are re-doing an addition that was once my closet and the room that held all my creations. My clothes and creations are now scattered about the living and dining rooms. 😳 It makes me crazy, but I know it will be worth it. I'm not sure how so many Paynes ended up with the "not tidy" "not organized" gene from NPayne, but they did. On the flip side, they also ended up with his love and passion for music, so that's a good thing! This morning my eyes popped open for good about 8:25, and I could not make them close; so I got up and snuck out of the condo. I'm currently sitting outside in the not too hot sun and drinking a vanilla latte in a cute little hippie coffee cafe. It's nice to sit and think in an organized peaceful place. I've been thinking a I do...which sometimes gets me in trouble. I think I may take a break. I don't really know what that means yet, but hopefully I will soon. Life is short, and there has not been enough focus on the good and love people have lately; and it's taking a toll. I'll keep writing, because it's just something I do; but I don't know about anything else yet. I haven't been very good about blogging over the last year or so, but I've been writing. Maybe I'll get back to daily blogging...positive stuff. I can tell you one thing...soul searching in the mountains is a blessing!

Friday, July 8, 2016

I tried to carry on as normally as I could today, but my brain was mush.  I got up, said my prayer of thanksgiving for another day, made my head hurt and my neck hurt; so I crawled back in bed.  I realized quickly that I wouldn't sleep, and I had a lot to do; so I made myself get up.  As I sat in the tax office waiting my turn to get tags for one of our cars, I couldn't focus.  I found myself being easily irritated by nothing really.  Once I was home, I was having a difficult time.  I told the kids we were going to the pool after I went to church for the prayer vigil.  Even at the prayer vigil, I couldn't focus.  I kept trying hard to listen to the words being spoken, but my mind was a fog.  I said, "Lord hear our prayers" along with everyone else, but honestly I didn't hear the prayers.  Even at the altar, my brain was mush.  I found myself thanking God for His goodness, but I couldn't find the words to ask Him to help with the fear and pain.  I couldn't focus.  We went to the pool, and I found myself sitting there watching them swim and trying to carry on as I normally would; but the tears fell.  My eyes were burning with a combination of mascara, sunscreen and tears; and so I went into the bathroom.  There in the stall, I sat and talked to God.  I told Him what He already knew....that my heart is heavy, that fear is seeping in, that I want to run but to where?  I told Him that I didn't know what to pray for, but I was assured that He knew.  The world is frightening me, and oddly enough I feel more and more like God is in control.  I don't know why things seem so out of control, but I know that He is more heartbroken about the recent shootings than any of us are.  I don't like the word, "hate"; and I don't allow it in our house.  Cal always asks me, "Why don't we say hate?".  I always answer with,"Hate is a strong word to use when we probably mean we really just don't like something."  Today I thought a lot about the word "hate" as my mind tried to take in all that has happened recently, and I decided that I do hate a few things....but one thing I really hate the most is HATE! I can honestly say I've never hated a person, and many others....don't understand what drives someone to act purely out of hate.  That is a good thing I guess, because if we did understand that; it would be quite scary.  We are all different....but we are all the same too; because we are all children of GOD...all of us, every single one.  God is love!  I just wish we were all love too.


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December 22, 2012

Ready or not, Christmas is coming...

...and quickly!  I'm on pace though.  I continue to balance preparing for the holiday and all that means to a household with young children.  There are presents to wrap (teachers' gifts, student treats), party refreshments to buy (100% juice boxes, please), photos to snap at school pageants, glittery crafts to assemble while still in pajamas, holiday lights to gaze at while carols play on the car radio and so on...
Thirty-eight treat bags assembled in one evening.  No elves required.
It still doesn't seem right to be celebrating and certainly, when my children are not around, I am not.  But it also does not seem right to not celebrate this season.  That would be giving in to the darkness--allowing the worst the world has to offer to eclipse the best and brightest that still exists among us.  It's really hard to know the right thing to do, the right way to feel as Christmas approaches and angels are laid to rest.
Like a lot of people, this week I've signed online petitions, cried many tears, avoided television but forced myself to watch news clips online.  I've re-posted heroic stories and photos on my Facebook page, toyed briefly with the thought of expatriation and worried a great deal more about my sons' safety when I leave them at their schools.  I've entered my own classroom with a smile each day, ready to calm fears among the students but also keeping the door key close at hand.  It hardly seems possible that only a week has passed since the tragedy.  We've all aged so much since then.
Even though I have all of my Christmas cds out of storage, the only one I feel like listening to (over and over) is These are Special Times by Celine Dion.  It's quietly beautiful.  In the past, I found this album too restrained but now it seems simply reverent.  Blue Christmas is appropriate instead of sappy this year.  The Prayer used to make me yawn but now leaves me in awe.  I listen to Ave Maria over and over again to feel stillness inside while everything else rushes past.  But it is actually Brahms' Lullaby that has had the most profound effect on me this week.  Everyone says that we should hug our children tighter and hold them closer now.  This softly-sung song makes me feel as if I am watching over my boys even when we are apart for the day.
As the holiday draws near, I wish everyone peace.  May you enjoy this time with the people who are most special to you.

  1. Beautifully written, captures & articulates so much of what I'm feeling. Have a safe, peaceful & yes even merry Christmas.

  2. Merry Christmas! Hope you have a happy holiday!


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Monday, May 14, 2012

Dealing With Loss

Last Saturday, May 5, I had to put my little Silva cat to sleep.  I had written in a previous blog about Silva not doing well and coming back when I did some energy work on her.  That, sadly, did not happen this time; she was ready to cross the Rainbow Bridge.

I believe on some level I knew this was coming; I think that knowledge had a lot to do with my depression and total lack of motivation for the previous month.  Also, the last couple of days I just knew it was my last time grooming her and that I should take more pictures because I didn't have long left with her.

Then, last Saturday morning, she just went downhill very quickly, could hardly stand and wouldn't even let me hold her for long.  I knew it was time to make the call to the vet.

Honestly, this is the first time in my 4+ years of sobriety that I really considered drinking.  I mean, I've had passing thoughts of it, but never anything where I really had it planned out.  And this time, I really had it planned out.

I was going to have Silva put down, go home, work as a tarot reader at a fundraiser I had promised to do, go to work the overnight shift at my full-time job, then spend Sunday drunk.  I could have picked up a bottle in between the fundraiser and work and been in oblivion all day Sunday.

For a couple of hours that actually seemed like a really good solution.  You would think that with four years of sobriety I'd know better, and eventually I did, but not for a while.

Then again, that is the way that I dealt with pain for many years, so its only logical that it would appear as an option to me.

What stopped me from actually drinking?? It wasn't any deep-seated belief that I can never drink again.  I have never given myself that limitation.  Drinking is always an option for me in my mind,  mainly because I have my father's mindset, that if you tell me I can't do something, well, you can be damn sure I'll find a way to do it.   It's the consequences of having that drink that I'm not willing to accept; and that, together with how far I've come since I got sober, is what worked to keep me from drinking.

I know that I was the absolute best mama I could have been to Silva, and no kitty has ever been more loved than she was with me.  I also know that that would never have been possible if I'd been drinking.   Although I always did my best for my animals and they were never abused, I reached a point in my drinking that I couldn't take care of myself or them properly.

As much as I will miss and mourn Silva, she deserves a better memorial than me being a drunk-and useless to myself, Googles-my other cat, and anyone or anything else.  It honestly feels like it would be an insult to Silva, to let her loss stop me from improving myself and being the best person I can be.

So, I will mourn Silva for as long as it takes, but I will also move on and remember her with love and joy.

Blessed Be!

Sunday, May 13, 2012

Grief and Grieving-Pagan Blog Project

Any powerful emotion can be used to help motivate us.   These emotions can help us to take our lives and/or attitudes in new directions, to give us purpose or motivation, even to strengthen out spells.

Grief is undeniably one of the strongest of emotions there is.  Its potential to cause great harm or great good is almost unlimited.

We can wallow in grief and use it negatively: indulging in drugs or self-pity, anger, and lashing out at others.

Or we can use it to motivate ourselves to become better people or to change something that needs changing.

I am finding grief to be very effective in breaking through emotional blocks to contacting and working with my ancestors.  Like most people, I'm not real fond of everyone in my family, and some of them I really didn't want to spend a lot of time with when they were alive, so obviously, I haven't wanted to contact them now that they're not with us anymore.

But part of grief, at least for me, is regret and wondering what I could have done better.  In wondering that, I wonder if those who have passed over have regrets and wish they had done things differently while they were on this plane.

For me, this has broken down some barriers I've had about contacting certain family members who have passed over.  I'm going to be taking a class in mediumship to help me learn to contact those on the other side better.

Right now I can feel the presence of some family members at times, though only those that I always felt close to; but I have a hard time communicating with them. I can pick up feelings that they are sending me, such as love and sympathy, but I can't seem to receive messages from them.  And as for initiating contact on my own, forget it! I definitely need help learning how to do these things.

So, my grief at the passing of my little cat, Silva, and the love and sympathy I have felt around me from family members (human ones) I have already lost will hopefully lead me to real communication with those on the other side, both animal and human.

Blessed Be! .


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Sep 23, 2010

Mind Your Language!

So okay..harini aku cranky. Maka semua bende adalah annoying!

Benda pertama yang meng'annoy' aku harini adalah status FB hamba allah ni la. Aku tak nak disclose apa dia cakap. Tapi aku tak paham...setahu aku status kat FB takde word limit..ko tulis laa berjela mana pun, tak kene potong..tapi PERLUKAH?

ak = aku
umh = rumah
msuk = masuk
arap = harap
pggl = panggil

Okla..aku kasi can. Mungkin dia penat nak type full word, so everything has to be in short forms..tapi noooooooooooo..boleh pulak words like

jerk = je
ittew = itu
xder per = xde pe

Tah la..aku pun pakai jugak short form ni, tapi masih dalam tahap waras lagi la..

Aku cranky...dan orang2 yang menaip mcm ni buat aku lagi cranky..korang tak rasa pening ke kepala nak figure out what they are trying to say? I've seen a blog that is written as such..terus aku click pangkah kat bahagian atas window tu...

I would understand if you have limited word count like in Twitter..but please...bertempat la penggunaan shortform tu..

Sep 21, 2010 selalu?

Kadang-kadang rasa kita je yang kisah
Dia buat tak tau..
Kadang-kadang rasa kita je ambil berat
Dia buat hal sendiri..
Kadang-kadang kita rasa penat sangat
Dia macam tak peduli..

Kita selfless..dia selfish..
Money can never compensate what I need..
I want time for myself..
I need space away from anything else

I need compassion..
I need understanding..
I need my sanity..

Or maybe all I need is just sleep?
Undisturbed deep sleep..

Mungkin kita patut jadi seperti dia..
Mungkin bila begitu boleh rasa gembira..

Tapi..boleh ke jadi macam dia?
Kenapa dia tak boleh jadi macam kita?

Susah kan jadi saya?
Masih cemburu dengan hidup saya?
Atau kamu gembira saya derita?

Suka hati lah..
Perasaan sendiri pun tidak dilayan..
Perasaan kamu saya tak peduli..
Pendapat kamu simpan sendiri..
Sent from my BlackBerry® wireless device via Vodafone-Celcom Mobile.

Sep 20, 2010

Good Idea...

*Taken from 'The Craziest Thing I Did to Save Money' by Ana Gonzalez Ribeiro*

Smoke Less, Travel More
"Many years ago, my husband and I decided to stop smoking. He named the date we would start and sure enough, before we went to bed that night, we tossed our packs of cigarettes. I told him that I was going to put away each day the amount of money we would have spent on the cigarettes. So I made a ritual of every night putting away in a desk drawer $3. Back then, smoking was much cheaper.
"At the end of one year, I had saved almost $1,100. That money paid for a trip to London! I suggested this cessation method to a friend and he was successful in both saving money and eliminating his smoking habit."

I have quit a long time ago...but if I was still smoking..I'd take up this idea! It could be a motivation for quitting..kan? Wonder how much saving I would make...mari kira..

DULU..on an average, a pack of 20s would last me 2 days (yeah..that's on a healthy day! :P) so..ok..

365/2 = 182.5 (rounded to 183)
183 x RM9.20 (bapak mahal rokok skarang!!thank god I quit!!) =

RM 1683.60!!!!!

banyak!!!definitely enough for a holiday!!!!! So..what are you waiting for???? Kick the habit and plan your holiday!!!!!!

September 2

Fakta sampah ke-2 bulan ni:

Bila kawin je bole pakai kasut kodi tapi tak kodi..time lain..cubalah..saya cop awak kodi!

Fakta sampah banyak berkisar tentang perkahwinan sbb aku dok layan sembang org nak kawin..

*selamat menempuh alam perkahwinan!!*
Sent from my BlackBerry® wireless device via Vodafone-Celcom Mobile.

Sep 14, 2010

September & Hari Raya!

*sian CKD penat beraya!!haha!*

Fakta sampah bulan ini:

Sambung fakta sampah August "orang tak kawin lagi memang gelojoh"

September says: "orang BARU kawin LAGI gelojoh!!"

Muahahahaha! Ko jangan cakap banyak wahai bakal pengantin baru! Nanti ko join kelab buyung ko taww la!!haha! Kata kene catch up!! Hohohoho!

By the way..SELAMAT HARI RAYA to all my friends and readers..tengah plan nak buat open house ni tapi pening! Sebab rumah ai tak muat nak buat satu sesi!! Mati makkkk!!aiyo! Tunggu je la saya hantar invite (kalo jadi nak buat!) Ok ???

Sent from my BlackBerry® wireless device via Vodafone-Celcom Mobile.

Sep 2, 2010

Recipe: Beef Briyani Rice

So i had a long weekend before Merdeka since the company went for a company trip to China for 5 days. I decided not to follow thinking it was puasa month (it's been 2 years since i could properly fast) plus..5 days is a tad bit too long to leave CKD and suami.

What with the long weekend and all, suami and I decided to entertain some friends to berbuka puasa at our place. As usual, when we entertain..normally we have pot luck la..tak larat aaaa nak cook and clean and at the same time jaga CKD..I can die!

On Saturday I had my cousins over. Our theme was Mexican, Italian foodies. I made Shepard's Pie but that will be in another entry. On Sunday, I had my pals from uni and I told them I was making Beef Briyani. So we coordinated our foodies - I made the rice and chicken curry, Anies brought the Ayam Golek Kerinchi, Azie made Kerabu Apple and Sophie made her delicious Oreo Trifle..memang naik 2 kilo!!!!

So okay..this is how to make my rendition of Beef Briyani. It's healthy coz I don't use any oil nor do it tumis2 anything.

The ingredients:

Beef Ribs cut in small pieces
HUGE Onions cut into wedges
Tomatoes cut into 4
Beras Basmathi

*optional for aroma
Kulit Kayu Manis
Biji Pelaga
Bunga Lawang

So this is VERY'd think that making briyani is tough..think again. If you have a slow pot or slow cooker..even easier! It's a bit time consuming so best if you prepare the broth a night before you want to entertain. All you do is put all the onions, tomatoes and beef ribs into the slow pot. Add some water but not too full coz the juices from the ingredients will later add into the broth. How much water u ask?? Depends on how much rice you plan to cook. Go on a 1:1.5 ratio for beras basmathi (1 cup rice to 1 1/2 cup of water) because we will use the broth to cook the rice.

Next, put the slow pot on auto and leave it overnight. And this is what you will find in the morning..But if you don't have a slow pot, don't fret. You can still cook it on the stove at a very low heat and let the broth simmer but not boil until all the bones of the ribs come off the meat. You might need to continuously add water. Not too much tho, else you'll dilute the broth and it loses all those juiciness..

Add some salt to taste..By this time, the bones from the ribs would have fallen off from the meat. Filter the broth from all those delicious meat and onion (your tomatoes will be gone by now!) And remove all the bones. Separate the meat from the onion and tomatoes.

Now to cook the rice..So we use the 1:1.5 ratio ok..

First you rinse the rice of course..Pour the filtered broth into the rice cooker and switch the rice cooker on. Don't worry if you don't have enough broth for the rice. Just add in normal water (as long as there is more broth than water, the taste should be fine!) Wait until the broth comes to a boil then add in the rice and the meat you separated before. Add in the kulit kayu manis, biji pelaga & bunga lawang too.

And leave to cook!

Easy kan?? It went perfect with the my santan-less curry chicken (recipe coming soon!), Ayam Golek Kerinchi and Azie's Kerabu Apple (I think she posted the recipe on her blog before..else I'll ask her for the recipe..)

You can even have the broth on its own..add in some carrots, celery, potatoes, broccoli (up to your imagination) and serve with plain rice or bread..

Review kene tarukkk!!

"Sha! Kalau tak sedap aku tak tambah nasi ni 2 kali!!" - Sapet

Heheheh! Mungkin open hse raya this year I'll make this again..and suami will make his roast chicken (suami masak sedap!!) and I'll add in acar telur instead of the kerabu apple (or maybe both!) Apa tu acar telur??hahaha!! Will have to wait for when I post the recipe lah!

Selamat mencuba!

*azie pun tambah 2 kali!hehehe! Ynag lain-lain? Saya tak kira!*

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This Week in Costa Rica

Only on the Overseas Radio Network!

This Week in Costa Rica is a weekly, online radio program and podcast by US expat, Dan Stevens

Grinch'ing Through the Costa Rican Holidays

This Week in Costa Rica will feature each week a news portion in which Dan and Rico (qCostaRicawill talk about the happenings in and around the land of "Pura Vida". With over 30 years of living in Costa Rica between the two it give a unique insight into life in CR.

Rico and Dan get together one last time before the New Year begins to talk about the holiday season in Costa Rica and various other topics. They do their best to spread holiday cheer but end up becoming Grinches.

Topics talked about on the show:

1. Costa Rica holiday tradition of tamales
2. Insurance for the Costa Rican "Bullfighters"
3. Costa Rica Christmas Bonuses (Aguinaldo)
4. Packed Border Crossings of Costa Rica for the Holidays
5. Illegal Border Crossings in Panama

After a quick break Rico & Dan come back to address some health issues and other topics in Costa Rica:

1. Is the Tap Water in Costa Rica drinkable?
2. Immunization again Dengue?
3. Euthanasia in Costa Rica for the Terminally Ill
4. Denying Entry into Hospital for Man in Cardiac Arrest
5. Bird Repellent at the San Jose Airport

 For more information about this program, or to become a guest or sponsor, please write in at Thanks for the support of our wonderful sponsors; Robert Clark InsuranceAnti-Aging and Wellness Clinic, and Outlier Legal Services.

This Week in Costa Rica is provided “as is” without any representations or warranties, expressed or implied.  This Week in Costa Rica is produced by Podfly Productions, LLC and broadcast with permission by the Overseas Radio Network.


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Get Abundant Life News

Thought Bricks 11: Your Real Self Cannot Die

n this lesson Bernard shows us ways of looking at the eternal nature of life, partly through using the Wheel Exercise and The Real Self Cannot Die Exercise. He also offers insights into the Angels’ response to human ‘commands’.

William M.

My dear Student,

I hope that by now, you will not object to the subject of this Lesson. Many peoople, as you know, cannot bear to think of the subject, even, let alone read about it. But I am hoping that, having followed me so far in these Lessons, you will have reached the stage of:
(a) you do not mind the subject at all;
(b) you have a deep interest in it and a sense of coming adventure; or
(c) you still have some fears but are willing to have them banished.

This Lesson will cater for all three stages! If you have practised Lesson Ten faithfully, you will already have gained a glimpse of your Real Self. You will have become aware of ‘something’ within you which is eternal and deathless, indestructible and calm and wise. I want you to look upon eternity as a circle and yourself as standing in the midst of the circle.

The Wheel Exercise

First of all, take a sheet of plain paper and a pencil. Then get a saucer and draw around it on the paper. In the centre of the circle you have made, place a small coin and draw around that, too, and then put your initial in the centre of the smaller circle. Now starting from the small circle and going out to the large one, draw ‘rays’ or ‘spokes’ so that your final diagram looks like a wheel.

As soon as you have your diagram ready, choose a quiet spot to sit down and look at it. First of all, look at the outer circle which represents eternity – or time without beginning and without end. Then look at the small circle with your initial inside. This represents you, standing in the midst of eternity, poised, safe, belonging. Remember that God the Father created you and therefore He must have wanted you. You must be a part of the eternal plan or you would not be here at all. God created you.

We read: ‘God breathed into man’s nostrils the breath of life and man became a living soul.‘ (Gen. 2, 7.)

This was not one act for one man, else all other men would have no ‘breath of life’. Everyone must have been created by God Himself since all have within them His ‘Breath of Life’. All can say with Job:
‘ The Spirit of God is in my nostrils.’ (Job 27, 3.)

Why, then, did God create you?
And this is life eternal, that they might know Thee, the only true God.’ (John 17, 3.)

It may take us a very long time to come to know God. How can we know the experiences that await us within the circle of eternity, the gradual growth, the truths revealed? Look at those around you. Can you really believe that when they come to die they will all have reached an equal stage in ‘life eternal’? Of course not. Then we must assume that we shall still be learning and growing after we have passed beyond the veil called death. Remember that the apostle said:
‘To them gave He power to become the Sons of God, even to them that believe on His Name.‘ (John 1, 12.)

Look around you at those who do ‘believe on His Name’. Can you think that they are ‘Sons of God’ yet? And if not, then would not Divine justice give them time and opportunity to grow? So let us think of ourselves as being safe within the circle of eternity, cradled like babies in the loving Arms of God until we have had time to know Him, time to grow, time to become sons. For:
‘Underneath are the Everlasting Arms.’ (Deut. 33, 27.)

Did Job, think you, expect death to end all when he cried in an ecstasy of faith:
‘Though He slay me, yet will I trust in Him!’

There is a divine economy in nature. A seed falls into the ground; it springs up, gives forth leaves, buds, flowers, seeds. The seeds fall into the ground and they too spring up. If death ended all, if man’s life was chopped off into a single span – what uselessness, what waste! The life of the plant goes on, and so does yours, my friend. (For further understanding, read Lesson Seven again, and wait for Lesson Twelve.)

Look at your diagram once more. There you are, dwelling safely in the midst of eternity. One of those ‘spokes’ or ‘rays’ represents your earthly life. And what of the other ‘spokes’? Each one is a learning, a growing in order that each one of us may become a ‘son of God and joint-heir with Christ’. (Rom. 8, 17.)

The Real Self Cannot Die Exercise

Now I shall give you a proof that, even in your imagination your Real Self cannot die….

Go into a quiet place. Then try deliberately to ‘die’ in your imagination. Visualise yourself walking along a road, perhaps, when suddenly you fall against a wall… You are dead!… But are you dead? Then what are you doing, looking on at all this? If death ends all, you should know nothing. Why are you still standing, unharmed, watching? Try to banish yourself utterly… But try as you will, you will still be there, or if you banish yourself from that scene, you will find yourself in another! Students have told me that they have tried it for a week and never achieved it! They are always alive, always unharmed.

And this is your proof also, for imagination or mental imagining is the beginning of all things. Therefore, if you cannot give oblivion even a beginning, it cannot exist.

In the beginning of man’s earth journey, death – as we know it – did not exist. Then, man was a powerful, gifted being, as befitted a son and heir of God. He could break through the veil into the Unseen Realms at any time, and ‘walk with God’, drawing spiritual nourishment into his being, then calmly penetrate the veil into the more materialised Realms, limiting his heavenly powers but gaining skill and experience in their use. During his earth times he exercised dominion and kingship over the animals birds, fishes and insects. It is to such peaceful, blissful Power that mankind is slowly rising again. ‘For this cause‘, said the Master, ‘came I into the world, to bear witness unto the Truth‘ – and part of that ‘bearing witness’ was when He appeared, alive, before His friends, 3 days after they had seen His body put and sealed in a tomb.

This returning Power is also glimpsed in the lives of advanced people through the ages. The Power to heal, the Power to bless, the Power to control the elements, to tame and speak with wild beasts, to walk upon the water… These are the early signs of mankind’s slowly returning Power. And greatest of all shall be the Power to be no longer mastered by death.

‘The works that I do, ye shall do also‘, said the Master, and if He was stronger than the drawing power of death, who shall dare to say that we shall not be?

Before we leave this subject of death, I will give here a copy of my reply to a Student who had just lost a loved one.

This is a time for Truth, the Truth, the whole Truth and nothing but the Truth. This is no time for half truths, for bewilderment and lack of understanding, for these are the soil in which helpless grief grows. In truth alone is there comfort and understanding and courage. That is why, because I understand so well, I am giving you Truth.

The Truth is that we are eternal beings, that this earthly life is but a tiny fragment of the eternity in which we live. We are here to learn about life, to learn that we are offspring and heirs of God, to learn how to develop our powers, that we may use them in a wider, higher and more splendid life. When we have learned the lessons we came to learn, we pass through the door called “death”, into that wider life.

Until then, we are more or less confined; hampered; like a person in a room, looking through a window at beautiful country. Then the time comes to step forth; we open the door and pass through to a wider and more splendid freedom. This is the meaning of life and of death.

When those who have passed on to this more advanced life are our kin – really our kin, I mean, in spirit and mind – then we can know that they “go to prepare a place for us”, even as the Master, in His larger, higher way, did. So the one who has gone from you now, is preparing a place for his kin, a place which will be “home” to those he loves, just because he is there. He will be there to welcome you when you, too, pass through the “door called death”. He has made, as it were, a bridge, a causeway for you between earth and heaven, and when you too pass over it, you will be more at home, because he is there.

This is the Truth, and on Truth alone can you take your stand; on Truth alone shall you lean; on Truth alone shall you gaze until all the darkness of your own loneliness is swallowed up in its light and splendour. Half-truths and platitudes may express pity – yes. But only the Truth about life and death, the whole Truth and nothing but the Truth can bring an abiding comfort and a future joy. And so I commend you into the care and the Love of the Divine…

And here are poems which have come to me. (Most of you like me to give you some of these. This one was scribbled on a folded sheet of paper, and is dated 20-11-51.)

I have lived with Thee in the sunlight,
I have lived with Thee in the dark,
I have lived with Thee ‘mid sighing,
When shadows were grim and stark.
I have lived with Thee in gladness,
I have lived with Thee in pain,
But if I could not find Thee
‘Twould never be Life again.
For Thou, my God, art Living,
Art Life itself to me,
And Thee I’ll keep on loving
Through all Eternity.

(This one is dated 29-11-51.)
I climbed to the crest of the hill, Lord,
And I looked up to the sky;
I wondered what my eyes would see
When my footsteps brought me nigh.
I leaned down over the bridge, Lord,
And I looked into the deep,
And I thought of the unknown future,
The secrets Thy angels keep.
I looked into Thy heart, Lord,
And I felt its flowing Love;
Then I knew I need fear nothing,
Since all was safe above.
For Thy Love is unchanging,
Thy wisdom wide and deep,
We can trust Thee every moment
While Thy angels bless and keep!’

As an ending to our Lesson, I will quote a passage from one of the books I have written which is called, ‘Wisdom of Angels’. This passage concerns a conversation with a Being whom I called the Ruby Angel. Here it is:-

‘”When a man reaches a state of understanding”, said the Ruby Angel, “then angels regard it as a command. In the early stages of man’s life, it seems to him that the angels are the masters, however gentle they may be. In reality, this is not so. We angels live to obey the commands of men, although these commands are almost always given unconsciously. As soon as man is ready for knowledge, his inmost soul cries aloud to the angels for this to be given to him. Hearing this soundless, though piercing cry, we hasten to fulfil the command. Thus man’s need governs all our intercourse with men.” “Have we, then, cried soundlessly to you?” I asked.

“Yes. We angels are not asked to make this great journey down the narrow way into forgetfulness on earth. Therefore, we honour men the more. For men are the warriors who go forth to battle and return victorious. We angels are the ones who remain in the heaven-home and wait and pray. Oh sons Forget not the narrow way Forget not your great destiny!” The Ruby Angel ceased. He sat down again, bowed his head on his arms and folded his wings. There followed a great calm…

Your friend, My Lord is here;
what mystery He walks with me upon life’s sea;
He quells the waves and steers the boat-
My thoughts are calm and sweetly float,
For He is here . .
He clothes Himself in a Body for me,
In a Spiritual Body my heart can see,
That I can lean my spirit on
And know that He and I are one….
My Lord is here