Final Days... Posted 1/3/2007 4:43:37 PM Dear friends and family, I've come to a point where I must make decisions about my directions with response to where I am on the web and where and I'm posting my material. With respect to that I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has visited me here at newblog and extended their friendship. I really appreciate all the kind comments that have been made and the help that you have given me. However, I currently have far too many web pages going on different sites that my days are starting to get confused and I run the danger of repetative posts on some of the same sites. As such I have made the following decision: effective February 1st I will no longer be posting on this page. I will be shutting down all other pages that I have submitted to also, save one. My Yahoo! 360 page. My activities, friendships and postings there have come to be the crux of what is important to me as a Christian and as a writer. This is not to say that newblog or any other site doesn't allow me the freedoms or scopes that I wish, I'm just more comfortable with my 360 page and it is expanding far quicker than I could ever have imagined. I sincerely hope that no resentment will be taken by this decision and I openly invite everyone to come over to my 360 page to check out more of my material. For those remaining at newblog, as well as the creators of newblog, I wish you no ill will. In fact, I wish you all the best for continued success in the future. It may be possible that I shall return some day and I would like to find it as warm, comfortable and welcoming as it has been from day one. For those wishing to find me at 360, here's the link: http://360.yahoo.com/cjeb2003 I hope to see you all there! Best wishes for the future to all of you! Chris (2) Comments

Final Blog For 2006 And Wishes For 2007 Posted 1/1/2007 6:35:53 AM This was sent to me a few moments ago and seems perfect to pass on to all of you as the old year draws a close and the new one begins. Today... I wish you a day of ordinary miracles- A fresh pot of coffee you didn't have to make yourself. An unexpected phone call from an old friend. Green stoplights on your way to work or shop. I wish you a day of little things to rejoice in... The fastest line at the grocery store. A good sing along song on the radio. Your keys right where you look. I wish you a day of happiness and perfection-little bite-size pieces of perfection that give you the funny feeling that the Lord is smiling on you, holding you so gently because you are someone special and rare. I wish You a day of Peace, Happiness and Joy. They say it takes a minute to find a special person, an hour to appreciate them, a day to love them, but then an entire life to forget them. Send this phrase to the people you'll never forget . It's a short message to let them know that you'll never forget them. If you don't send it to anyone, it means you're in too much of a hurry and that you've probably forgotten your friends. Take the time! Wishing you the very best for 2007 Chris, Julia, Elizabeth and Bernadette (0) Comments

Saying Good Bye To The Past, Hello To A New And Brighter Beginning! Posted 1/1/2007 6:29:44 AM Dear family and friends, As midnight approaches here in Toronto, I thought I’d take a couple of moments to extend to all of you (and your families) the very best of prayers and wishes for a truly prosperous and Happy New Year on behalf of Julia, Elizabeth, Bernadette and myself. We pray that God and His angels will watch over and guide all of you in whatever may await in the New Year. As we look ahead to the New Year we are filed with anticipation of an abundance of new adventures that awaits us. Not the least of these is the Spiritual Journey that we shall be embarking on in a few short hours as many of us on Yahoo! 360 pages join Niny as she leads us on a 40 day adventure through The Purpose Driven Life. We pray that everyone participating shall achieve their souls desires in the New Year and that God shall reward each of us abundantly as we strive to do His Holy Will. For those of you who haven’t yet decided to join us, please do so. I can definitely promise you won’t regret it. As the old year comes to an end we pray for an end to all tensions throughout the world and that all families will be healed and reunited. The pains and horrors of war and the devastation that we visit upon each other are truly incredible. They MUST be stopped. WE CAN stop them. We MUST pray for and use the COURAGE that God Himself gives us to say NO! to the current administrations that are devoid of God and His Will for mankind. Please, join us in making a New Year’s Resolution to be the change that we all know is possible and that we all want for our children and their children. Julia, Elizabeth, Bernadette and I would like to also take this opportunity to thank God for all your friendships and to thank all of you for joining us. May God and His angels watch over all of you and guide your footsteps in 2007. Thank you. We love you all. Chris, Julia, Elizabeth and Bernadette (0) Comments

My Christmas present to all of you. Posted 12/24/2006 3:56:27 AM Dear Family and Friends, Merry Christmas to all our family and friends who visit these pages! On behalf of my family and myself we would like to extend our prayers and best wishes to all of you for a truly wonderful and Blessed Christmas. We also wish all of you a very prosperous and joyous New Year. May Our Lord Jesus Christ protect and watch over all of you and grant you the Peace, Love and Harmony that you seek in His Holy Name. I would also like to thank all of you who have been sending greetings for the season and leaving me notes over the past couple of weeks. I have been aware of them but, as you will see below, I've been quite busy putting together a special present for all of you. As many of you know I am aspiring writer. As part of my goal to attain eventual publication of some of my stories, I like to challenge myself to do something really special once in a while. What follows is a Christmas story that I have created for all of you to enjoy. It comes from my heart and is my present to each and every one of you. I hope you will enjoy it as much as I enjoyed writing it for you. (Fair warning: You'll need some free time as it's a bit long (2,566 word count). Maybe a quiet evening, some pillows and popcorn, etc? LOL!! Enjoy, my dearest of friends! Merry Christmas!) The Christmas Miracle ©Chris Timson 2006 The winter gale shrieked and tore, pummelling the tiny abode before it. Though in need of some repair, the domicile bore the brunt well. A wisp of smoke from the cracked chimney wall, the only visible sign of life, danced briefly amid the turmoil before evaporating into it. The earlier hours of endless rain and sleet were transforming into snow, forming deep drifts around, and clogging, the small orifices of the windows and doors. Grimacing from the arthritis in his right hand, Frank Edmunds shivered as he rose from the comfort of the threadbare blankets. He tried not to disturb Darla, his wife of over fifty years as she dozed on the tiny cot they shared. Donning his flannel robe, he slowly made his way into the next room to stoke the dying embers. Glancing around the framework of their home, he listened to the mournful wailing from without. It wasn’t a fit night for any creature to be about, he reflected as he moved the kindling and brought the flames back to life. The depleted cord of wood beside the mantle was nearly finished and he whispered a silent prayer that the storm might abate by morning in order that he might re-stock. Their three children grown now and with lives of their own, Christmas was mostly a private affair for he and Darla. Come morning they would make their way into the nearby village to attend the services at one of the churches after which they would exchange small talk and some gifts with some friends before returning to their humble home. The children and grandchildren might stop by for a short visit but due to the distances travelled and the numbers of relations to visit, the occasions wouldn't last long. Sitting in the rocking chair warming himself, Frank was pondering this when a sudden sharp thud shook the small hut. Taking it at first to be part of the storm, he was moving to return to the bedroom when the pounding seemed to take on a surprising urgency. Moving cautiously toward the door, Frank's curiosity was peaked as to his reflection of moments ago. Awakened by the tone of the knocking, Darla's sky blue eyes now looked askance at her husband as she donned a shawl for added warmth. Passing the small table where they had eaten a meagre repast before bed hours earlier, Frank lit the lamp and donned his glasses in order to better view the late arrival. A third, noticeably weaker, request sounded as he undid the latches. The elderly couple stepped back at the rudeness of the storm that jumped and tried to force its way through the opening. The slashing lasted but a moment as a dark shape suddenly stood before them blocking a large part of the onerous attack. “Please...” Male tones with a Spanish accent appealed to Frank. A deep tanned young man in his late twenties or early thirties stood in the doorway, his almond eyes watering as he gazed at them. Slightly taller than Frank, he brushed off a heavy coating of snow and tossed back the large hood of a heavy cape. Bearded with long dark hair tied back in a pony tail, the shadow of a smile traced itself across the visitor's face. Darla clung tightly to her husband's arm, partly in fear of the stranger, and shivered as the cold night air danced around them. “Please, my wife, we need help.” The desperation of the tone broke the momentary shock as he gestured to a smaller figure in similar attire close by. Darla wondered what could possibly have a young couple exposed to such severe elements so late and in such extremes. Comforting his wife and gently removing her arm, Frank stepped back and gestured for them to enter. “The baby, it comes soon...” This second announcement was as stunning to the elderly couple as they helped their guests with their outer clothing. Darla immediately took charge and ushered the young woman, who seemed to be barely out of her teenage years, into the tiny bedroom. Hurriedly tidying up the blankets she motioned for the younger woman to lie down. The young woman moaned softly as she did so. Darla called out to Frank that she would need some hot water and cloths. Feeling the belly of the girl, she knew from the movements within that the baby would be there shortly. “Don't worry. She's in good hands.” Frank comforted the man. “We have three grown children of our own and Darla, my wife, is a retired nurse and has delivered many babies. I'm Frank. Frank Edmunds.” Returning from the bedroom he indicated small chairs at the table, shaking hands with younger man, he moved some extra wood on to the fire. Setting a fresh pot to boil, he opened some cupboards and produced some mugs, a tin of coffee, some bread and some cheese on a board with a knife. “I am Jose. My wife is Maria.” The young man explained as he helped Frank. “We are labourers from Mexico and are returning home this week. The farms are closed now for the season.” “But... I don't understand...” Frank began as they reseated themselves near the fire. “We are a long way from anywhere. How and why would you travel on such a night?” Light brown eyes peered deep into Frank's own as the story was continued. “The place we were staying at, well, our money ran out. We managed to get a lift into the town down the road.” “But that's at least fifteen miles from here!” Frank interjected. “Yes. We have been walking for many hours.” Jose's countenance turned sad. “We inquired at several places but no one had any room. Even more so for a couple of young foreigners expecting a baby.” “It should have been all the more reason for someone to help you.” “Perhaps. But on a night like tonight, not many are too willing to even open their doors.” Frank shook his head. The world had indeed become a very cynical place and this story was not unusual. Selfishness and lack of compassion were becoming far too common in the modern world. People liked to blame governments and politicians for the lack of world peace, he reflected, yet the whole process began in their own homes. A twinge of bitterness rang through him as he considered that no one would open their doors to a poor couple expecting a child. “Is this your first child?” Frank queried noticing his companion wringing his hands before the fire. Removing the now boiling pot of water from the fire he offered a mug to Jose and motioned for him to eat. In the bedroom Darla looked into the dark eyes of the young woman before her. Fear and consternation masked the girl's features as she moaned softly in her labour. “Do you speak or understand English?” As the girl had not yet spoken Darla wanted to make sure before proceeding further. Glancing over her shoulder for a moment, she considered asking Jose to come and translate. “Si, yes. I was educated at the English school. It is where Jose and I met.” Breathing deeply, Maria was sweating now and Darla talked soothingly to her. She helped Maria to lie more comfortably and explained a bit of what to expect. Like Frank, she was shocked as to the uncaring nature of the people who had refused assistance to this couple on such a night. In the living room she could her Jose and Frank talking. She smiled as she also heard Frank comforting Jose as best as possible. “Yes. But Maria...she is so small...” Frank listened to the worrying tones and reached out a hand to comfort the young man. “She may be small, but it's often surprising how strong they can be.” He told him. “She's also in good hands. Darla knows her stuff.” A loud cry from the bedroom made them both start. They could make out Darla's soothing tones and instructions of when to push. Setting his mug on the table Jose began pacing about the small room. Frank smiled as he observed the occasional glance at the bedroom. “Do you know if it's going to be a girl or a boy?” He inquired. “No. We choose to trust God and love whomever He chooses to send us. Maria wants a boy for me though.” “You sound like a very strong couple. I'm sure God knows what He is doing.” “You believe in God then?” A small smile crossed Jose's face. He seemed to relax at Frank's acknowledgement of God. “Wouldn't be alive without Him.” Was Frank's reply. He thought back over the years and the many experiences that he and Darla had shared together. There was no doubt in his mind that there was a God and He had been rich in the blessings to Frank and Darla. Their children and their many years together were ample proof of that. Jose jumped at the sound of a second long cry. A third seemed to follow almost immediately. His face filled with anguish he moved quickly to the bedroom. Following him, Frank stopped after a couple of paces when they heard the unmistakeable cry of a newborn child. Jose half turned as he also stopped. He looked questioningly at Frank. “You have a beautiful, healthy son!” Darla smiled up at Jose as she came from the bedroom moments later, her eyes brimming with tears. Jose looked at her in wonder and then glanced at the next room before moving toward it. Frank and Darla could hear his cry of joy and congratulated him warmly when they entered the room and saw the new family. The miracle of birth never ceased to amaze them. After a few moments they left the new family alone. Making their way back to the living room they proceeded to clean up and Frank gave another long look at the fire. Despite the time that had passed and the ever dwindling fuel supply, the fire seemed to burn at full intensity. The heat in the room was also noticeably warmer but the elderly couple merely attributed this to the dying storm outside. A short time later Jose joined them, tears coursing down his dark cheeks. He smiled as he shook both their hands and hugged them. “I...we..cannot thank you enough. We have nothing to repay you with.” He bowed his head humbly. “Jose,” Frank spoke kindly and put his hand on the younger man's shoulder. “You owe us nothing. If anything, we should be thanking you for letting us share in such a special moment. What will you name him?” “His name is Jesus. After my father. We shall always remember you. Both of you.” Was the quiet reply. Darla smiled and moved to the bedroom to check on her charges. She returned a moment later. “They're resting comfortably.” Darla told Frank. “It's been a long night and they need it. We all do.” Frank put his arm around Darla and hugged her. Bringing forth some blankets, she gave them to her husband and indicating the hearth and some cushions turned back to the bedroom. “I know, it's not much but I'm afraid it's all we have. Please. Make yourself comfortable and sleep also.” Frank smiled warmly at his guest. As Jose spread out the blankets on the floor he sat at the table again to finish his coffee. He watched as Jose knelt in prayer first before laying down to face the fire. Whispering a prayer of his own, Frank sought comfort and safety for the new family. Although they didn't have much Frank and Darla silently agreed that they would share it for as long as possible with this couple. Closing his eyes for a moment Frank let his imagination wander for a moment and the room began to feel a great deal warmer. Unaware that he had been dozing Frank awoke with a start. The room he was in seemed familiar yet different. No longer did the elements from without penetrate through unsealed cracks as fresh mortar and brick walls had replaced the thinning and broken drywall. A polished cherry wood dining table with matching chairs replaced the simple stick surface and two frail stools he and Darla had used for so long. The worn mantle and fireplace was gone, a gas replacement stood in its stead heating the room thoroughly. Warm carpeting covered the floor from the hearth to every corner of the room. Frank turned at the sudden cry of his wife. Moving to the bedroom he was amazed to see a large double bed with rich coatings in place of the worn cot they had used for so long. Darla sat in the bed peering around at the lavishly decorated room and turned to Frank with a questioning look. Trying to remain calm, Frank beckoned her to join him in the next room. As she rose to do so, Darla noticed the doorway to what had been their small wash closet. A completely modern bathroom stood in its place with a large bath, toilet and separate sink. Rich thick towels and face cloths hung from polished silver bars awaiting their use. Wondering at the changes in their home, they entered what had been the tiny pantry where they had cooked and eaten their small meals, they now took in a fully equipped kitchen with a well stocked larder. Modern appliances were gleaming in the morning sunlight shining through the windows. Solid glass had taken the place of the sheets of plastic that Frank had put up to protect them from the elements. On a small breakfast nook steam rose from hot cereal with fresh beverages, fruit and buttered toast on plates beside them. The elderly couple halted for a moment and looked at each other remembering their guests. Moving about the house again they called out their names but there was no answer. Opening the front door, Frank stepped out. His amazement continued as the weather-beaten step board had been replaced with a covered porch of solid timber beams. Looking in all directions he found no sign of Jose, Maria or their newborn son. Even the virgin snow hid any trace of their movement. Moving back inside again, he shook his head at Darla's questioning look. Darla touched her husband's arm and pointed to an object on the dining room table from which Frank had arisen moments earlier. A large book lay open with a leather bookmark marking a passage. Drawing closer they found it to be a Bible with the verse written in gold handwriting. It was the Gospel of Saint Matthew, Chapter 25, Verse 34 – 36: “Then shall the King say to them that shall be on His right hand: Come, ye Blessed of my Father, possess you the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry, and you gave me to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave me to drink; I was a stranger, and you took me in; Naked, and you covered me; sick, and you visited me; I was in prison, and you came to me.” A note written in an elegant hand sat beneath it. “Thank you for your kindness in our time of need. JMJ” (0) Comments

A Message To All Americans (and those calling themselves "ex-Pats" Posted 12/20/2006 2:57:47 PM The following notice was received in all Government offices earlier today. The Director of Homeland Security has recieved the following notice from Lord John Cleese from Her Majesty's Govenrment in England with regards to the current administration. "Attention ALL american citizens. In light of your failure to elect a competent President to oversee the proper administration and governing of your country accordingly, we do hereby give notice of the revocation of your independence, effective immediately. "Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will resume Monarchical duties over all states, Commonwealth, and territories (Excepting Kansas, which she does not fancy). "Your new Prime Minister, Mr. Tony Blair, will appoint an intelligent Governor for America without the need for further elections. Congress and the Senate shall be abolished forthwith. A questionaire may be circulated next year to determine if any of you have noticed. "To aid in the transition process back to a Crown Dependency, the following rules are hereby introduced with immediate and lawful effect: "1. You should look up "revocation" in the Oxford English Dictionary. (Oxford is a world reknown city in England in which all true scholars come to study at some point in their lives. English is a new language which you will learn to use properly. A Dictionary is a big book. It is usually found in a library. It is full of words and explains what those words mean.) Then look "aluminium", and check the pronounciation guide. You will be amazed at just how wrongly you have been pronouncing it all this time. "2. The letter "U" will be properly reinstated in many words such as "favour", "neighbour", "Scarborough", etc. Likewise, you will learn to spell "doughnut" without skipping half the letters. The suffix (remember the Dictionary? It can help you.) "ize" will be replaced with its proper English suffix "ise". "3. Generally, you will be expected to raise your vocubulary to expected acceptable levels. People identifying themselves as being citizens and listing addresses such as Hoboken, New Jersey, the Bronx, etc. will be expected to re-enroll in schools to learn at least elementary English. You will be expected to be able to carry on an intelligent dialogue with an English kidergarten student for at least two minutes upon completion of your Grade 3 studies. Failure to do so will result in penalties and public admonishments. (For difficulty in understanding any of the aforementioned simplicities, please locate a library and open a Dictionary.) "4. Using the same twenty-seven words interspersed with the filler noises such as "like" and "you know" is an unacceptable and inefficient form of communication and is forthwith banned in ALL social circles. "5. There is no such thing as US English. Microsoft has been informed of such on your behalf. The Microsoft spell-checker will be adjusted accordingly to take account of the reinstated letter "U" and the elimination of "ize". "6. You will relearn your original national anthem, "God Save The Queen". (This has no reflection on, nor does it bear ANY reference to any homosexual seeking attention for themselves.) "7. July 4th will no longer be celebrated as a holiday. In recent polls it was indicated that, other than saluting whatever flag was raised, the majority of you haven't got a clue as to your history or what you may be celebrating. It has simply become just another tired excuse to get inebriated and swear at each other. "8. Guns should only be handled by adults. If you're not adult enough to sort things out without suing someone, or speaking to a therapist, then you're not grown up enough to handle a gun. "9. Therefore, you will no longer be allowed to own or carry anything more dangerous than a manual vegetable peeler. Permits proving intelligence requirements may be issued for those wishing to carry manual vegetable peelers in public. "10. With regards to your so-called "right to bare arms", women have just as much right to go with short sleeves on a hot summer day as men do. In England and all other intelligent countries this is often seen as attractive also. "11. All so-called american cars are hereby banned from any and all British properties. They are crap and this is for your own good. When we show you German cars, you will understand what we mean. "12. All intersections will be replaced with roundabouts, and you will start driving on the left hand side with immediate effect. It will not be necessary to be intoxicated to do this although some of you already do a remarkable job of it when you are under the influence. "13. Effective immediately, you will change to the metric system and without the benefit of conversion tables. Both roundabouts and metrication will assist you in understanding intelligent conversation and what you have been lacking for so long. "14. The former USA will adopt UK prices on petrol (which you have a strange habit of labelling 'gasoline') - roughly $6/US gallon. Rates will be adjusted accordingly when the metric effect is completed. Expect all prices to be increased accordingly. "15. You WILL learn to make real chips. Those things you call French fries are not real chips, nor are they French. We have made apologies on your behalf to the people of France for the blasphemy you have used. Those things you insist on calling potato chips are properly called crisps. Real chips are thick cut, fried in animal fat, and dressed not with catsup but with vinegar. "16. In proper acknowledgement of Canadians and their obvious superiority to you in this matter it must be addressed that the lukewarm dirty tap water you insist on calling 'beer' is not actually beer at all. Henceforth, only professionally brewed Canadian Beers, British Bitters and German Lagers will be referred to as beer. American brands (and attempts forthwith) shall be properly referred to as the Near Frozen Gnats Urine that it so closely resembles. This is to avoid all risks of further confusion when authorities are arresting you for being under the influence and you can't identify what you were drinking. Roadside breathalyzers will be adjusted to accordingly register and indentify the contents you spew or vomit. "17. Hollywood will be required to begin casting proper English actors in more "good guys" type of roles. Casting memebers of Her Majesty's reign in negative roles shall cease forthwith. English actors will also play English characters. Watching pathetic attempts by non-educated people such as Andie MacDowell in Four Weddings And A Funeral is an experience akin to having one's ears removed with a cheese grater. "18. Effectively immediately, you will cease playing american football. There is only one kind of proper football; you call it soccer. Those of you brave enough will, in time, be allowed to play rugby (which has some similarities to american football, but does not involve stoping for a rest every twenty seconds or wearing full Kevlar body armour like a bunch of nancies). "19. Further, you will stop playing baesball and referring to it as the great american past time. Like many games of note it was invented in Canada by a Canadian. Also, it is not reasonable to host an event called the World Series for a game which is not (with the lone exception of Canada) played outside america. Since only 2.1% of you are aware that there is a world outside your borders, your error is understandable. "20. Effectively immediately, you will stop referring to yorselves as the center of the known universe. Granted, the universe in your minds may be small and limited but a reality check will soon change this perspective. "21. An immediate answer is required of any of you that can answer the following: (Yes, there is a prize involved.) How and why is it possible for a country the size of the US, with all its advancements in technology and weaponry (including nuclear arms) to invade a country like Iraq (which is smaller than the state of Texas and has no such advancements or weaponry, and two years later your politicians are still trying to figure out why you haven't yet won what they're calling a "war"? "22. As you can see this revocation of the Constitution of the US is a necessity and merely a formality to save you from further embarassing yourselves. We do pity you and will make the transition as painless as possible for you. "23. An Internal Revenue Agent (i.e. tax collector) from Her Majesty's Government will be with you shortly to ensure the full aquisition of all monies due (backdated to 1776)." (0) Comments

A Christmas Joke Posted 12/20/2006 9:41:14 AM Fair warning to everyone: This one does contain some fairly strong (but understandable)language. It's only meant as a joke and NOT meant to be taken seriously. Enjoy! The 12 Days Of Christmas (Day 1) Dearest John: I went to the door today and the postman delivered a Partridge in a Pear Tree. What a thoroughly delightful gift! I couldn't have been more surprised. With deepest love and devotion, Your Agnes (Day 2) Dearest John: Today the postman brought your very sweet gift. Just imagine - Two Turtle Doves! I'm just delighted at your very thoughtful gift. They are just adorable. All my love, Your Agnes (Day 3) Dearest John: Oh, aren't you the extravagant one! Now I really must protest. I don't deserve such generosity - Three French Hens! They are just delightful, but I must insist, you've been too kind. Love, Your Agnes (Day 4) Dearest John: Today the postman delivered Four Calling Birds. Now really, you're being too romantic. They are beautiful, but don't you think that enough is enough? Affectionately, Agnes (Day 5) Dearest John: What a surprise! Today the postman delivered Five Golden Rings - one for each finger. You're just impossible, but I love it. Frankly, all those birds squawking were beginning to get on my nerves. Love, Agnes (Day 6) Dear John: When I opened the door, there were actually Six Geese-A-Laying on my front steps. So you're back to the birds again, huh? Those geese are huge. Where will I keep them? The neighbors are complaining and I can't sleep through the racket. Please stop. Cordially, Agnes (Day 7) John: What's with you and those damn birds? Seven Swans-A-Swimming??? What kind of a sick joke is this? There's bird shit all over the house and they never stop with the racket. I can't sleep at night and I'm a nervous wreck - it's not funny. So stop with those fucking birds! Sincerely, Agnes (Day 8) OK Buster! I think I prefer the birds. What the hell am I going to do with 8 Maids a Milking? It's not enough with all these birds and maids a milking, but they had to bring their fucking cows! There's shit all over the lawn and I can't move in my own house. Just lay off me, smartass! Agnes (Day 9) Hey Shithead! What are you, some kind of retard? Now there are nine Pipers Piping??? And what the hell is with the sad music they're into! They haven't stopped chasing those maids since they got here. The cows are getting upset and they're stepping all over those screeching birds. What am I going to do? The neighbors have started a petition to evict me! You'll get yours! Agnes (Day 10) You Rotten Prick! Now there's Ten Ladies Dancing. I don't know why I call those sluts ladies. They've been pole dancing and balling those pipers all night long! The cows can't sleep and they've got diarrhea. My living room is a river of shit. The commissioner of buildings has subpoenaed me to give cause why the building shouldn't be condemned. I'm siccing the police on you. One who means it!! (Day 11) Listen Fuckhead! What's with the Eleven Lords a Leaping on those Maids and Ladies? Some of those broads will never walk again. Those pipers ran through the maids and have been committing sodomy with the cows! All 23 birds are dead, they've been trampled to death in the orgy. I hope you're satisfied, you vicious, rotten swine. Your sworn enemy, Agnes (Day 12) Dear Sir: This is to acknowledge receipt of your latest gift of the Twelve Drummers Drumming, which you have seen fit to inflict upon our client, Miss Agnes McHolstein. The destruction, of course, was total. All future correspondence should be sent to our attention. If you should attempt to contact Miss McHolstein directly at Happy Dale Sanitarium, the attendants have instructions to shoot you on sight! With this letter you will find attached a warrant for your arrest. See you in court, asshole! Cordially, Badger, Bender & Cajole (1) Comments

Another Smile For You Posted 12/16/2006 3:34:38 AM This is a joke that has been making the rounds here at work. I hope I don't offend anyone. It's only a joke. Late one Christmas Eve a number of years ago a woman rolls over in bed and finds the other side of the bed is empty. Her husband is missing. Sitting up, she listens and hears a muffled noise coming from down in the living room. Donning her housecoat she heads in that direction. As she approaches the present laden room, she is shocked to find her husband curled up and weeping in one corner. Rushing over to him she tries to find the cause of his discomfort. "Honey! Honey!" She cries, "What is it? What's wrong?" "No, no! You wouldn't understand." Is the tear filled reply. "What? Is it the children?" She casts a nervous glance back up the stairs in the direction of their children's bedrooms. "No, no! You wouldn't understand." The reply is repeated as more tears flow. "Sweetheart, please, after all we've been through, what wouldn't I understand?" She puts her arm around him and tries to pull him toward her. Taking a deep breath her husband begins to look up at her. Wiping his eyes, he gulps and starts to talk. "Do you remember Christmas Eve nearly 20 years ago?" He asks timidly. His wife blushes deeply. "Yes, I do dear." She replies. "You were so romantic. I couldn't resist you." "Do you remember your father coming in and catching us naked?" A smile forms on the woman's face. "Yes, I do sweetheart. You were so cute trying to cover me and not realizing that daddy had seen everything." "Do you remember how your father gave me a choice, to either marry you or go to jail?" "I remember. You said 'I'll marry her' so fast he dropped the gun. But what has that got to do with you crying so much?" Wait for it folks... "I've just realized," her husband wails, " I would have been free tomorrow!" (0) Comments

Something On The Lighter Side Posted 12/16/2006 2:58:29 AM Here's the first of a couple of jokes for you. Enjoy! It's very late on a winter evening far out in the country. The roads, while not impossible to navigate, are in pretty rough shape and it's not a night for travellers to be out late. Around 2 a.m. there comes a loud pounding on the door of a farmhouse. Grumbling the homeowner struggles out of bed and makes his way downstairs. Gritting his teeth as he opens the door to the bitter wind, he peers out in to the darkness. Standing before him is a drunk in tattered clothes and holding a bottle of gin. Looking up at the farmer he grins and manages to breathe out, "Could you, could you possibly give me a push? I'm in, I'm in an awful way." The farmer stares incredulously for a moment not believing his senses. The aroma of a distillery about the smaller man makes him queasy and yelling a firm "NO!" he slams the door and heads back to his warm bed. When his wife inquires as to the disturbance, the man explains about the drunk weaving around on the front porch. Listening for a moment and taking in her mate's frustrated answer, she gently admonishes him. "Sweetheart, don't you remember how we got stuck in that torrential downpour miles from anywhere on our wedding night? Remember how that old man appeared out of nowhere and gaves us a hand and wouldn't even accept your money when you offered to pay him?" The farmer thinks about it for a moment then agrees that his wife is right. The least he can do is get the drunk out of whatever ditch he's stuck in. Getting dressed he heads back downstairs. The wind pierces through his clothing and he shivers involuntarily as he steps out on to the porch. "Hey!" He calls, "Are you still out here?" He looks everywhere in the darkness but can't see anyone. "Yeah!" Calls the drunk from somewhere to his left. "Well, do you still need a push?" Inquires the farmer. "Yeah, sure do!" Comes the unsteady reply. "Where are you? I can't see you!" Calls the farmer looking everywhere. "Out here in back, on your swing!" (0) Comments

A Warning For The Ladies Posted 12/16/2006 2:38:27 AM A friend of mine from my Yahoo! 360 page just sent me the following warning. I'm passing it on in hopes that none of you ladies go through the terror that must have been involved in this. Please feel free to repost and pass this on also. Sunday afternoon around 5 pm I headed into the Target in Wheaton, IL where crime is VERY RARE and mostly it is with bikes being stolen!! It was still light outside and I parked fairly close to the entrance. As I got out of my car and began walking towards Target, an older lady shouted to me from the passenger seat of a car about 30 feet away from me...."Ma'am you must help me, help me please, help me Ma'am!" I looked at her in the eyes and started to walk towards her when all of a sudden I remembered an email my Mom had sent me a week or two ago about rapists and abductions using elderly people to lure women in. I paused, memorized the license plate and immediately headed into Target to get a manager to come help this lady, just in case something was up. While the woman manager headed out there, I kept a close watch just because I was curious what was wrong with the lady and wanted to be sure nothing happened. As the Target lady walked up towards the car and got very close to the old woman in order to help her, the back door of the car flies open and a large man with a stocking cap on, jumps out and sticks a gun to the lady's stomach as he shoves her into the back of the car. I yelled out, "call 911" several times and just as I was saying that, a policeman who happened to be on the other side of the parking lot and who, luckily had seen the entire thing happen, raced over to the car. He was able to stop the car and arrest the male as well as the old lady, who was involved in the scheme. By God's grace everyone was alright, including myself, although I think we were both very shaken up. Like many of you, I would not in a million years have left an elderly person who was yelling for help if it weren't for the email I had read last week. So, I wanted to pass this along so you all can be aware and remember that you really can't trust anyone these days. You just never know when something like this could happen. I would have never dreamed it to happen to me especially on a Sunday afternoon at a Target in a safe area! It definitely was not a coincidence that my Mom sent me that email just a few days before this all happened. Please, be careful and always be aware of your surroundings. Just because you individually don't go over to help someone doesn't mean you have to leave them in trouble, but don't go ALONE....you really don't know what might be going on. This has been around a while but a good reminder for all you gals out there. Be safe this season. MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR MAY GOD BLESS US-EVERYONE! (0) Comments

Religion : Prayer For Healing The Family Tree Posted 12/12/2006 6:36:03 AM Dear friends, Before entering this particular blog I want you all to know that I consider all of you to be part of my extended family in Christ. As such, I pray this prayer for all of us not only at this time of year but throughout the year. May you all know the Peace and Love of Our Lord Jesus Christ in all your lives now and always. Prayer For Healing The Family Tree Reverend John H. Hampsch, C.M.F. Heavenly Father, We come before you as your children, In great need of your help; We have physical health needs, Emotional needs, Spiritual needs And interpersonal needs. Many of our problems have been caused by Our own failures, neglect and sinfulness, For which we humbly beg your forgiveness, Lord. We also ask you to forgive The sins of our ancestors Whose failures have left their effects on us In the form of unwanted tendencies, Behaviour patterns and defects in body, mind and spirit. Heal us, Lord, of all these disorders. With your help, We sincerely forgive everyone, Especially living or dead members Of our family tree, Who have offended us Or our loved ones in any way; Or those whose sins have resulted In our present sufferings and disorders. In the name of your Divine Son Jesus, And in the power of His Holy Spirit, We ask you, Father, To deliver us and our entire family tree From the influence of the evil one. Free all living and dead members Of our family tree, including Those in adoptive relationships, And those in extended relationships, From every contaminating form of bondage. By your loving concern for us, Heavenly Father, and by the blood shed by Your Precious Son Jesus We beg you to extend your Blessing to us And all our living and deceased relatives. Heal every negative effect Transmitted through all past generations, And prevent such negative effects In future generations of our family tree. We symbolically place the cross of Jesus Over the head of each person In our family tree, And between each generation; we ask you To let the cleansing blood of Jesus Purify the blood lines in our family lineage. Set your protective angels to encamp around us, And permit Archangel Raphael, The patron of Healing, to administer Your divine healing power to all of us, Even in areas of genetic disability. Give special power to our family members' Guardian angels to heal, protect, guide And encourage each of us in all our needs. Let your healing power be released At this very moment, and let it continue As long as your sovereignty permits. In our family tree, Lord, replace all bondage With a truly Holy bonding in family Love. Let there be an ever deeper bonding With you, Lord, by the Holy Spirit, to your Son Jesus. Let the family of the Holy Trinity, pervade our family with its tender, Warm, loving presence, So that our family recognize And manifest that Love in all our relationships. All our unknown needs We include with this petition That we pray in Jesus' Precious Name. Amen. Dear friends and family, this Christmas and throughout all your days, know that you are part of our extended family and that this prayer will be said for all of you. Have a truly wonderful and Blessed day! (0) Comments

For Lotus - Thank you for everything! Posted 12/11/2006 5:38:44 PM (0) Comments

Religion : God Made Us A Family Posted 12/11/2006 4:18:58 PM This is a song originally composed and copyrighted by Mr. Vince Sgambelluri. He also did the musical score for the song. I think it's beautiful and it says it all for me: God made us a family We gather together We Worship together We journey together (repeat) Together we Live God's Word Together we follow Christ Together we Love ALL people Together we serve our God Together we Hope for Heaven Together we offer our prayers Heavenly Father above Healer and Helper and Love God made us a family It is the cradle of Life God made us a family We need one another We Love one another We forgive one another (repeat) Together we Live God's Word Together we follow Christ Together we Love ALL people Together we serve our God Together we Hope for Heaven Together we offer our prayers Heavenly Father above Healer and Helper and Love God made us a family It is the cradle of Life (0) Comments

Bible Verses For The Soul: Sexual Purity (William Gaultiere, PhD). Posted 12/10/2006 1:45:13 AM RESPECT BIBLICAL MORALS ON SEX Save Sex for Marriage“Do not commit adultery.” (Exodus 20:14) “Give honor to marriage, and remain faithful to one another in marriage. God will surely judge people who are immoral and those who commit adultery.” (Hebrews 13:4)Spouses are to Share Love, Respect, and Sex “So again I say, each man must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.” (Ephesians 5:33) “So do not deprive each other of sexual relations. The only exception to this rule would be the agreement of both husband and wife to refrain from sexual intimacy for a limited time, so they can give themselves more completely to prayer.” (1 Corinthians 7:5) Don’t Cultivate Lust for Anyone Besides Your Spouse "You have heard that the law of Moses says, `Do not commit adultery.' But I say, anyone who even looks at a woman with lust in his eye has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” (Matthew 5:27-28) Don’t Participate in Immoral Conversations and Shows “It is shameful even to talk about the things that ungodly people do in secret.” (Ephesians 5:12) Don’t Use Divorce as a Way to Marry Someone Else “Anyone who divorces his wife, except for marital unfaithfulness, causes her to become an adulteress, and anyone who marries the divorced woman commits adultery. “ (Matthew 5:32, NIV) Don’t Give in to Immoral Lifestyles that Exclude People from God’s Kingdom “Don't fool yourselves. Those who indulge in sexual sin, who are idol worshipers, adulterers, male prostitutes, homosexuals, thieves, greedy people, drunkards, abusers, and swindlers--none of these will have a share in the Kingdom of God.” (1 Corinthians 6:9b-10; See also Proverbs 2:16-19) APPRECIATE THE BENEFITS OF KEEPING SEX IN MARRIAGE Stay Free of Guilt and Sexually Transmitted Diseases “Don't go near the door of her [immoral woman’s] house! If you do, you will lose your honor and hand over to merciless people everything you have achieved in life. Afterward you will groan in anguish when disease consumes your body.” (Proverbs 5: 8-9) Protect your Heart from Severing “One Flesh” Sexual Unions “This explains why a man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one.” (Genesis 2:24) Maintain Objectivity to Intelligently Evaluate Dating Relationships “My son, pay attention to my wisdom; listen carefully to my wise counsel. Then you will learn to be discreet and will store up knowledge. The lips of an immoral woman are as sweet as honey… Run from her! Don't go near the door of her house! If you do… you will say, `How I hated discipline! If only I had not demanded my own way! Oh, why didn't I listen to my teachers?’” (Proverbs 5:1-3, 8, 12-13) Sexual Purity Honors God, Yourself, and Others “No other sin so clearly affects the body as this one does. For sexual immorality is a sin against your own body. Or don't you know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body.” (1 Corinthians 6:18-20) Enjoy Married Sex as a Blessing from God “May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth. A loving doe, a graceful deer- may her breasts satisfy you always, may you ever be captivated by her love.” (Proverbs 5:18-19) HOW TO KEEP SEX IN MARRIAGE Run Away from Sexual Temptation! “Run away from sexual sin!” (1 Corinthians 6:18; See also Genesis 39:2-12, Proverbs 5:3-8, 7:1-5, Ephesians 5:3) Make Friends with People who Reinforce Godly Values “Whoever walks with the wise will become wise; whoever walks with fools will suffer harm.” (Proverbs 13:20) Set Godly Limits; Don’t Awaken Sexual Desire with Anyone Besides your Spouse "Promise me, O women of Jerusalem, by the swift gazelles and the deer of the wild, not to awaken love until the time is right.” (Song of Solomon 2:7, repeated in 3:5 and 8:4) “God wants you to be holy, so you should keep clear of all sexual sin. Then each of you will control your body and live in holiness and honor-- not in lustful passion as the pagans do, in their ignorance of God and his ways.” (1 Thessalonians 4:3-5; See also Proverbs 5:15-21, 6:24-25, Acts 15:20, Romans 13:13, 1 Corinthians 6:12-13) Verbalize your Sexual Purity Commitment “Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. “ (Ephesians 4:15) Be Modest and Focus on Inner Beauty; Don’t be a Lust Object “Don't be concerned about the outward beauty that depends on fancy hairstyles, expensive jewelry, or beautiful clothes. You should be known for the beauty that comes from within, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is so precious to God.” (1 Peter 3:3-4; See also 1 Samuel 16:7 and Matthew 6:25-34) Realize that Sexual Sin is Exciting for a Moment but Painful for a Lifetime “The lips of an immoral woman are as sweet as honey, and her mouth is smoother than oil. But the result is as bitter as poison, sharp as a double-edged sword. Her feet go down to death; her steps lead straight to the grave… To those without good judgment, she says, `Stolen water is refreshing; food eaten in secret tastes the best!’ But the men don't realize that her former guests are now in the grave.” (Proverbs 5:3-5, 9:17-18) Avoid Alcohol and Drugs Because they Weaken Your Boundaries “Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.” (Proverbs 20:1) Deny Sinful Sexual Desires and Meet Relational Needs Instead “So put to death the sinful, earthly things lurking within you. Have nothing to do with sexual sin, impurity, lust, and shameful desires. Since God chose you to be the holy people whom he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience… Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. And the most important piece of clothing you must wear is love… For as members of one body you are all called to live in peace. And always be thankful.” (Colossians 3:5, 12-15) IT’S NEVER TOO LATE FOR A SECOND CHANCE Confess your Sins to God and to a Friend to Receive Forgiveness and Healing “But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us and to cleanse us from every wrong.” (1 John 1:9) “Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.” (James 5:16) Receive God’s Grace and Truth which Sets you Free and Empowers Morality “The teachers of religious law and Pharisees… said to Jesus, `this woman was caught in the very act of adultery. The law of Moses says to stone her. What do you say?’…. They kept demanding an answer, so he stood up again and said, `All right, stone her. But let those who have never sinned throw the first stones!’…. Then Jesus stood up again and said to her, `Where are your accusers? Didn't even one of them condemn you?’ `No, Lord,’ she said. And Jesus said, `Neither do I. Go and sin no more.’" (John 8:3-4,7,10-11) Pray for God’s Mercy and Cleansing of your Heart from Sexual Sin “Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin.” (Psalm 51:1-2. See also Matthew 15:19-20.) GOD BLESS YOU ALL! Have a truly wonderful and Blessed day! (0) Comments

Which one will you pick? Posted 12/10/2006 1:19:38 AM This is another one that I just had to share. I picked #2. This is a true story of something that happened just a few years ago at USC. There was a professor of philosophy there who was a deeply committed atheist. His primary goal for one required class was to spend the entire semester to prove that God couldn't exist. His students were always afraid to argue with him because of his impeccable logic. Sure, some had argued in class at times, but no one had ever really gone against him because of his reputation. At the end of every semester on the last day, he would say to his class of 300 students, "If there is anyone here who still believes in Jesus, stand up!" In twenty years, no one had ever stood up. They knew what he was going to do next. He would say, "Because anyone who believes in God is a fool. If God existed, he could stop this piece of chalk from hitting the ground and breaking Such a simple task to prove that He is God, and yet He can't do it." And every year, he would drop the chalk onto the tile floor of the classroom and it would shatter into a hundred pieces. All of the students would do nothing but stop and stare. Most of the students thought that God couldn't exist. Certainly, a number of Christians had slipped through, but! For 20 years, they had been too afraid to stand up. Well, a few years ago there was a freshman who happened to enroll. He was a Christian, and had heard the stories about his professor. He was required to take the class for his major, and he was afraid. But for three months that semester, he prayed every morning that he would have the courage to stand up no matter what the professor said, or what the class thought. Nothing they said could ever shatter his faith...he hoped. Finally, the day came. ! The professor said, "If there is anyone here who still believes in God, stand up!" The professor and the class of 300 people looked at him, shocked, as he stood up at the back of the classroom. The professor shouted, "You, sir, are a FOOL!!! If God existed, he would keep this piece of chalk from breaking when it hit the ground!" He proceeded to drop the chalk, but as he did, it slipped out of his fingers, off his shirt cuff, onto the pleat of his pants, down his leg, and off his shoe. As it hit the ground, it simply rolled away unbroken. The professor's jaw dropped as he stared at the chalk. He looked up at the young man, and then ran out of the lecture hall. The young man who had stood, proceeded to walk to the front of the room and shared his faith in Jesus for the next half hour. 300 students stayed and listened as he told of God's love for them and of His power through Jesus. You have 2 choices: 1. Delete this and never look at it again. 2. Pass this along to your Christian and non-Christian friends, giving them encouragement we all need every day. When you choose option 2, you have chosen to STAND UP. In light of the many jokes we send to one another for a laugh, this is a little different: This is not intended to be a joke, it's not funny, it's intended to get you thinking.............. Isn't it funny how simple it is for people to trash God and then wonder why the world's going to hell. Isn't it funny how we believe what the newspapers say, but question what the Bible says. Isn't it funny how everyone wants to go to heaven provided they do not have to believe, think, say, or do anything the Bible says. Or is it scary? Isn't it funny how someone can say "I believe in God" but still follow Satan (who, by the way, also "believes" in God ). Isn't it funny how you can send a thousand! Jokes through e-mail a nd they spread like wildfire, But when you start sending messages regarding the Lord, people think twice about sharing. Isn't it funny how the lewd, crude, vulgar and obscene pass freely through cyberspace, but the public discussion of Jesus is suppressed in the school and workplace. Isn't it funny how someone can be so fired up for Christ on Sunday, but be an invisible Christian the rest of the week. Are you laughing? ! Isn't it funny how when you go to forward this message, you will not send it to many on your address list because you're not sure what they believe, or what they will think of you for sending it to them. Isn't it funny how I can be more worried about what other people think of me than what God thinks of me. Will YOU pass this on? I did .... (0) Comments

Brown Bag Christmas Posted 12/10/2006 1:12:53 AM This was originally posted by a friend of mine in another area. I thought it was good so I "borrowed" it to share with all of you. When I asked our newlywed Sunday School class to share a favorite Christmas story, Carrie Fuller said, "Our family has one we call the 'brown bag Christmas.'" When she finished, I had to hear more. Two days later, I called a member of her family for more details. It was the early 1930s during the Dust Bowl days of Kansas, in the heart of the Depression. The Canaday family---Mom, Dad, 7 children---were having a tough time existing, so there would be no luxuries at Christmas that year. Mom told the children to go outside and find a Christmas tree and decorate it. After a lengthy search, they returned with a dead branch, the only thing they had been able to find. They stood it up in a bucket of sand and decorated it with pieces of paper tied with string. Little Judy, almost four, did not know how a Christmas tree was supposed to look, but somehow she knew it was not like that! As Christmas approached, the Canaday children, like children everywhere, pestered Mom and Dad about what presents they might get under their "tree." Dad pointed out that the pantry was bare, that they did not have enough to live on, and there certainly would be no money for gifts. But Mom was a woman of faith and told her children, "Say your prayers. Ask God to send us what He wants us to have." Dad said, "Now, Mother, don't be getting the children's hopes up. You're just setting them up for a disappointment." Mom said, "Pray, children. Tell Jesus." And pray they did. On Christmas Eve, the children watched out the window for visitors, but no one came. "Blow out the lamp and go to bed", Dad said. "Nobody is going to come. No one even knows we're out here." The children turned out the lamp and got in bed, but they were too excited to sleep. Was this not Christmas? Had they not asked God to send them the presents He wanted them to have? Did Mom not say God answers prayer? Late that night, when one of the children spotted headlights coming down the dirt road, everyone jumped out of bed and ran to the window. The commotion woke up Mom and Dad. "Don't get excited, children," Dad said. "They're probably not coming here. It's just someone who got lost." The children kept hoping and the car kept coming. Then, Dad lit a lamp. They all wanted to rush to the door at the same time, but Mr. Canaday said, "Stay back. I'll go." Someone got out of the car and called, "I was wondering if someone here can help me unload these bags." The children dashed out the door to lend a hand. Mom said to her youngest, "Stay here, Judy, and help Mom open the bags and put up the gifts." A deacon from the church in town had gone to bed that Christmas Eve, and lay there tossing and turning, unable to get the Canaday family off his mind. Later, he said, "I didn't know what kind of shape you folks were in, but I knew you had all those kids." He had gotten up and dressed and went around town, rousing people from their sleep to ask for a contribution for the Canaday family. He filled his car with bags of groceries, canned goods, toys, and clothing. Little Judy got a rag doll which remained her favorite for years. With so much food, Dad wanted to have a Christmas feast, to spread it all out and eat as they had never eaten before. Mom, ever the caretaker, said, "No, we need to make this last." And it did last, for weeks. The next Sunday, Mrs. Canaday stood in church and told what the members---and one deacon in particular---had done for her family. There was not a dry eye in the house. Years later, the oldest sister Eva wrote up this story about her family for a school project. Eva said, "We were so thrilled by all the wonderful things in the bags, for a while ;we lost sight of the most special gift. The best gift that Christmas was not in brown bags at all. It was Mom's faith, as she taught her children to bring their needs to Jesus and trust Him to meet them. And a Dad's love that wanted only to protect his children from hurt and disappointment." When Carrie finished telling her story, she added, "Little Judy is my wonderful grandmother." Today, Judy Canaday Dryden lives in Sanger, Texas. As she relived this event from seventy years ago over the phone, one could hear the tear in her voice and feel her pride in being the recipient of such a precious heritage from her mother and father. At Christmas, we celebrate praying mothers and caring fathers and believing children. We give thanks for sensitive deacons and generous friends and sleepless nights. And we praise God for the hard times that teach unforgettable lessons, stories of faithfulness that get told and retold through the years inspiring each new generation to place their faith in a loving Savior. May we never forget the real lessons in life. (0) Comments

Desiderata - One of my favourite poems Posted 12/9/2006 2:59:49 AM DESIDERATA Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible, without surrender, be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even to the dull and ignorant; they too have their story. Avoid loud and aggressive persons; they are vexations to the spirit. If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain or bitter, for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself. Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your own career, however humble, it's a real possession in the changing fortunes of time. Exercise caution in your business affairs, for the world is full of trickery. But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals, and everywhere life is full of heroism. Be yourself. Especially do not feign affection. Neither be cynical about love; for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment, it is as perennial as the grass. Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth. Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness. Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, doubt not that the universe is unfolding as it should. Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive him or her to be. And whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace in your soul. With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. **My thanks to my dear friend Miki who sent this to me on another page. Thanks Miki!** dedicated to Miki :D Sunday May 14, 2006 - 04:55am (EDT) Edit | Delete Next Post: Entry for May 16, 2006 (0) Comments

Want to learn more about each other? Posted 12/9/2006 2:47:23 AM Time for another 'tagging' game! A) Each player of this game starts with honestly answering these questions. B) People who get tagged need to write a blog of their own providing their answers. C) At the end you need to choose 6 people to be tagged and list their names. D) Don't forget to leave a comment that says "TAG... YOU'RE IT" and tell them to read your blog." ( It's a bit too long ..but it is worth the fun ! ) 1. Where were you 1 hour ago? At work. Working at my computer. 2.Who will be your next kiss? --- My darling wife, Julia. 3. Is there anything pink within 10 feet of you? A mug with highliters & pens in it. 4. When is the last time you went to the mall? Last week. 5. Are you wearing socks right now? I'd better be! The wind chill is a bone racking -18C! 6. When was the last time you went out of town? September. Visiting one of my sisters. 7. Have you been to the movies in the last 5 days? No. We prefer to wait for the videos. It saves money. 8. What was the last thing you had to drink? Water. 9. What are you wearing now? Company uniform. 10. Have you been in a car wash? It's been a couple of decades. We don't own a car. 11. Last food you ate? Home made chocolate chip cookies made by my daughters. (More chocolate chips than cookie dough. LOL!!!) 12. Where were you last week on Saturday? Buying birthday presents for my wife. Her birthday was on Sunday (December 3rd). 13. Have you bought any clothing items in the last week? Yes. (Birthday presents for wife.) 14. When was the last time you ran? Several hours ago. Catching a bus to work. Good sprint. Despite my age, I've still got a bit of the cat in me! LOL!!!! 15. What's the last sporting event you watched? Hockey game on Thursday night. 16. What is your favorite class? Writing. Currently taking a correspondence course in Creative Writing. Finally going for my degree. (Watch for some exciting stuff in 2007!) 17. Your dream vacation? This past July. Took my wife and children to Whistler (B.C.) for a week. Absolutely INCREDIBLE! 18. Last 3 people's houses you were in? 1) Best friend's. 2) My parents. 3) An old friend's 19. How old are your parents? Dad is 75 (outlived 3 doctors who swore he wouldn't see 40! LOL!!!). Mom is 72. They're both still so very active, it amazes everyone! HEY! WHAT HAPPENED TO #20? 21. Do you miss anyone? Jennifer Hambly, a truly remarkable woman I had the pleasure of working with 25 years ago at Marriott Hotels. She only had to look at me and I felt like I was walking on air. I would often trip or get into very embarrassing accidents on account of this crush. I never could get up the courage to tell her how I felt. 22. Last play you saw? Beauty And The Beast. 23. What are your plans for today? SLEEP! I work the midnight shifts and I have to work again on Saturday night. 24. Who is the last person that commented on your page? Wapataka. 25. Ever go to camp? It's been about 10 years. I used to do survival training with Native Americans and look forward to eventually getting my daughters to take the courses. 26. Were you an honor roll student in school? Nowhere even close! Too much of a rebel back then. LOL!!! 27. What do you want to know about the future? Nothing. I trust God to look after things His way. So far He's been pretty amazing! 28. Are you wearing any perfume or cologne? No, I'm allergic. 30. Where is your best friend located? In my bed at home - my darling wife Julia is the best friend I've ever had! 31. Do you have a tan? No, they're not healthy for you and I want to keep my health. 32. How old do you want to be when you have kids? Too late! We've already got our allotment. (2 gorgeous girls!) 33. Do you collect anything? No, not into material possessions too much. 34. Last time you got stopped by a cop or pulled over? 1995 - Speeding in New York. (65 in a 50 zone.) 35. Have you ever drank your soda from a straw? No. Don't drink soda. 36. How do you like your drinks? I don't drink. 37. Do you like hot sauce? No. 38. Last time you took a shower? 8 hours ago, just before coming to work. 39. Who do you have a crush on? My darling wife Julia. 40. What is your mood? A little tired. It's been a long shift and the harsh wind isn't helping any! 41. Are you someone's best friend? I hope so! 42. Are you rich? Maybe not by the world's standards, but God has blessed me beyond my wildest dreams! Tag Your It....Now read my blog and answer the questions on your version of this on your blog. I tag all of you! Enjoy everyone! I look forward to the answers! (0) Comments

Santa Brings A Miracle Posted 12/9/2006 12:47:09 AM TIME TO GET OUT THE TISSUES FOR THIS CAN BRING ON THE TEARS.... Three years ago, a little boy and his grandmother came to see Santa at Mayfair Mall in Wisconsin. The child climbed up on his lap, holding a picture of a little girl. "Who is this?" asked Santa, smiling. "Your friend? Your sister?" "Yes, Santa," he replied. "My sister, Sarah, who is very sick," he said sadly. Santa glanced over at the grandmother who was waiting nearby, and saw her dabbing her eyes with a tissue. "She wanted to come with me to see you, oh, so very much, Santa" the child exclaimed. "She misses you," he added softly. Santa tried to be cheerful and encouraged a smile to the boy's face, asking him what he wanted Santa to bring him for Christmas. When they finished their visit, the Grandmother came over to help the child off his lap, and started to say something to Santa, but halted. "What is it?" Santa asked warmly. "Well, I know it's really too much to ask you, Santa, but ." the old woman began, shooing her grandson over to one of Santa's elves to collect the small gift that Santa gave to all his visitors. "The girl in the photograph... my granddaughter well, you see ... she has leukemia and isn't expected to make it even through the holidays," she said through tear-filled eyes. "Is there any way, Santa, any possible way that you could come see Sarah? That's all she's asked for, for Christmas, is to see Santa." Santa blinked and swallowed hard and told the woman to leave information with his elves as to where Sarah was, and he would see what he could do. Santa thought of little else the rest of that afternoon. He knew what he had to do. "What if it were MY child lying in that hospital bed, dying," he thought with a sinking heart, "this is the least I can do." When Santa finished visiting with all the boys and girls that evening, he retrieved from his helper the name of the hospital where Sarah was staying. He asked the assistant location manager how to get to Children's Hospital. "Why?" Rick asked, with a puzzled look on his face. Santa relayed to him the conversation with Sarah's grandmother earlier that day. "C'mon.... I'll take you there," Rick said softly. Rick drove them to the hospital and came inside with Santa. They found out which room Sarah was in. A pale Rick said he would wait out in the hall. Santa quietly peeked into the room through the half-closed door and saw little Sarah on the bed. The room was full of what appeared to be her family; there was the Grandmother and the girl's brother he had met earlier that day. A woman whom he guessed was Sarah's mother stood by the bed, gently pushing Sarah's thin hair off her forehead. And another woman who he discovered later was Sarah's aunt, sat in a chair near the bed with weary, sad look on her face. They were talking quietly, and Santa could sense the warmth and closeness of the family, and their love and concern for Sarah. Taking a deep breath, and forcing a smile on his face, Santa entered the room, bellowing a hearty, "Ho, ho, ho!" "Santa!" shrieked little Sarah weakly, as she tried to escape her bed to run to him, IV tubes intact. Santa rushed to her side and gave her a warm hug. A child the tender age of his own son -- 9 years old -- gazed up at him with wonder and excitement. Her skin was pale and her short tresses bore telltale bald patches from the effects of chemotherapy. But all he saw when he looked at her was a pair of huge, blue eyes. His heart melted, and he had to force himself to choke back tears. Though his eyes were riveted upon Sarah's face, he could hear the gasps and quiet sobbing of the women in the room. As he and Sarah began talking, the family crept quietly to the bedside one by one, squeezing Santa's shoulder or his hand gratefully, whispering "thank you" as they gazed shining eyes. Santa and Sarah talked and talked, and she told him excitedly all the toys she wanted for Christmas, assuring him she'd been a very good girl that year. As their time together dwindled, Santa felt led in his spirit to pray for Sarah, and asked for permission from the girl's mother. She nodded in agreement and the entire family circled around Sarah's bed, holding hands. Santa looked intensely at Sarah and asked her if she believed in angels. "Oh, yes, Santa... I do!" she exclaimed. "Well, I'm going to ask that angels watch over you," he said. Laying one hand on the child's head, Santa closed his eyes and prayed. He asked that God touch little Sarah, and heal her body from this disease. He asked that angels minister to her, watch and keep her. And when he finished praying, still with eyes closed, he started singing softly, "Silent Night, Holy Night.... all is calm, all is bright." The family joined in, still holding hands, smiling at Sarah, and crying tears of hope, tears of joy for this moment, as Sarah beamed at them all. When the song ended, Santa sat on the side of the bed again and held Sarah's frail, small hands in his own. "Now, Sarah,"he said authoritatively, "you have a job to do, and that is to concentrate on getting well. I want you to have fun playing with your friends this summer, and I expect to see you at my house at Mayfair Mall this time next year!" He knew it was risky proclaiming that, to this little girl who had terminal cancer, but he "had" to. He had to give her the greatest gift he could -- not dolls or games or toys -- but the gift of HOPE. "Yes, Santa" Sarah exclaimed, her eyes bright. He leaned down and kissed her on the forehead and left the room. Out in the hall, the minute Santa's eyes met Rick's, a look passed between them and they wept unashamed. Sarah's mother and grandmother slipped out of the room quickly and rushed to Santa's side to thank him. "My only child is the same age as Sarah," he explained quietly. "This is the least I could do." They nodded with understanding and hugged him. One year later, Santa Mark was again back on the set in Milwaukee for his six-week, seasonal job which he so loves to do. Several weeks went by and then one day a child came up to sit on his lap. "Hi, Santa! Remember me?!" "Of course, I do," Santa proclaimed (as he always does), smiling down at her. It is his way to always make each child feel as if they are the "only" child in the world at that moment. "You came to see me in the hospital last year!" Santa's jaw dropped. Tears immediately sprang in his eyes, and he grabbed this little miracle and held her to his chest. "Sarah!" he exclaimed. He scarcely recognized her,for her hair was long and silky and her cheeks were rosy -- much different from the little girl he had visited just a year before. He looked over and saw Sarah's mother and grandmother in the sidelines smiling and waving and wiping their eyes. That was the best Christmas ever for Santa Claus. He had witnessed --and been blessed to be instrumental in bringing about -- this miracle of hope. This precious little child was healed. Cancer-free. Alive and well. He silently looked up to Heaven and humbly whispered, "Thank you, Father. 'Tis a very, Merry Christmas!" If you believe in miracles you will pass this on...I did (0) Comments

A Moment In Time Posted 12/8/2006 11:54:50 PM The following is based on a true story. The names have been changed to protect the people involved. I apologize in advance for any sensitivities that I may cross. There are those who would argue that this story is not appropriate for this time of year but there is never a "right" time really for what has happened. While I retain the copyright to this story, please feel free to repost this and draw attention as much as you can to getting some very weak laws changed. One Moment In Time by Chris Timson (2006) A few weeks ago Jennifer decided to go out for an afternoon jog. She'd had a long day and needed to release some tension. Changing into her outfit she gave her husband her route and told him she'd be back in about an hour. She then kissed her 4 children aged 22 months to 11 years old (3 boys, 1 girl) good bye. Little did any of them know that it would be her final kiss good bye as her life was to suddenly and forever become entwined with that of a complete stranger she was would meet for a brief time. On the same day at approximately 3:00 p.m. a young single executive named Brad was just getting off work. His boss called him into his office to give him some news. A long awaited promotion had finally come through and Brad was awarded a bonus in addition for his hard work. He duly invited his boss and some co-workers to come to a nearby watering hole for a celebratory toast and favours. Jennifer had been jogging through the neighbourhood that she had lived in since getting married 15 years earlier. She smiled and greeted various neighbours as she passed them by. A couple of younger girls even joined her for a short distance during which they discussed current events and the upcoming Christmas season. Jennifer told them how she had already done most of her shopping and only had her husband, Dave, left to buy for. She was planning a romantic get away for the two of them. Her friends admired her advance planning and agreed to get together some time soon to exchange some gifts. Brad and his friends had visited a couple of bars and had settled on a local strip joint after which Brad was planning on going shopping to buy an engagement ring for his girlfriend, Jane, whom he'd been dating for several years. He was feeling quite comfortable and very proud of his accomplishment that day. He was very free and easy with his money and complimenting the near naked waitresses which they took in good naturedly. At approximately 4:15 p.m. Brad made a decision that would alter the lives of several families forever. Wishing a good night to his co-workers, Brad got into his car to begin the drive to the shopping mall. Jennifer had stopped her running approximately a block and a half from her home to do some cooling down exercises. Looking up as she did so she watched an approaching aircraft as it banked in to land at the nearby airport. Again, she reflected that she needed to contact her sister-in-law at the travel agency to book her Christmas gift for Dave. As she continued to walk she noticed several cars on their drive home from the office and waved to a couple that slowed and honked as they drove by. Brad had driven a couple of blocks when he spotted a police cruiser doing an early spot check up ahead. Fully knowledgable that he was drunk he decided to avoid the trap and turned down the next street. He also decided to speed up a bit so that he wouldn't be too late getting to the mall. Suddenly, he noticed a police cruiser in his rear view mirror. Being on patrol, they weren't paying any particular attention to Brad. Brad, however, was filled with panic and dread and decided to try to outrun them. Gunning the engine he swerved several times to avoid oncoming traffic. Suddenly he found his car mounting the sidewalk to his right and careening uncontrollably toward a concrete abuttment. Jennifer had stopped on a nearby ledge approximately 200 yards from her home and was drinking some water when a noise to her right alerted her. Shielding her eyes from the setting sun, she had only a breif second to take in the out of control vehicle speeding toward her. She felt a brief sharp pain before eternal blackness overcame her. Dave, noticing the time for his wife's arrival had long since passed, glanced out the living room toward the flashing lights a short distance away. Suddenly he felt sick to his stomach and a wave of panic overcame him. Screaming Jennifer's name he tore out of the house and smashed his way through the barrier of police officers and ambulance attendants only to arrive in time to see his wife's bloody and battered body being covered with a tarpulin. Nobody stopped him as he wrapped his arms around the now still body and cried out his agony. A week later, still in grief, Dave mourned with his children as the coffin was closed for the final time and lowered into the ground. Coincidentally, at that exact moment, a judge heard a plea for mercy and granted Brad bail on a mere $5,000.00 bond for "unintentional vehicular homocide". His lawyer escorted him from the courtroom that had broken out in a cacophony of noise about injustice and weak liberal laws. He repeated his initial defence, he had absolutely no memory whatsoever of the incident in question or what had happened. His last memory was that of drinking a beer in a bar. Outside the courtroom a police officer approached him and handed him an envelope. Inside was a picture of a young couple with 4 young children. The woman in the picture was smiling and had signed the back, "Hope you have a wonderful day. Love, Jennifer." Dave had sent the picture that he had always kept in his office in hopes that Brad would be stirred by what he had done. As he didn't remember what he had done, nor did he recognize the family, Brad tore up the picture and continued to walk out a free man. Understandly Dave is having a great deal of difficulty with his wife's death and once again the politians are being besieged with calls to change the very weak drunk driving laws. Unfortunately, Canada is a country that chooses to recognize the rights of the criminals over those of the victims. Please, keep this story in mind not only at this time of year but all the time whenever you go out and decide to have a drink. Also, please support M.A.D.D. (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) and other organizations in their fight to stop these horrors from happening. Thank you and have a truly Joyous, Healthy and Wonderful Holiday Season. (0) Comments

Fill In The Blanks! Posted 12/8/2006 11:52:45 PM Dear Chris, I ____ you. You have a nice______. You make me _______. You should _______. Someday I will ______. You + me =________. If I saw you now I'd __________. I want to ________ you. I would build a _______ just for you. If I could sing you any song it would be _________. We could __________ under the stars. Love, _______________ (P.S. ______________.) REPOST THIS "DEAR (YOUR NAME)" AND SEE WHAT ANSWERS U GET... this is lots of fun and you can really make someone's day. (1) Comments

Let's Do A Love Survey Posted 12/8/2006 3:32:07 AM THE FIRST KISS 1) how old were you when you had your first kiss? 9 years old - girl next door (literally) liked me a lot (there's no accounting for taste, I guess! LOL!!!) 2) what word would you use to describe it? YUCK! 3) what was his/her name? Linda 4) where did it take place? Her parents basement. Her brothers challenged her to do it. I thought she'd chicken out. LOL!!! 5) all in all, was it bad (1-3), okay (4-6), good (7-8) or great (9-10)? Um about -250! LOL!!! (She knew about using her tongue way too early and that, to me, was gross! LOL!!!) THE FIRST LOVE 1) how old were you? 16 2) what was his/her name? Alice 3) how soon did you know? She kissed me when I walked her home from school. We kissed a lot after that. 4) where did you meet? High school. I was a new student and she helped me get around. 5) how long were you really in love? 4 months. Split up just before Christmas. THE FIRST TIME 1) how old were you? 27. (I thought I might end up an "eternal" virgin.) 2) what was his/her name? Judy. 3) how long into the relationship did it happen? 3 months. I couldn't resist her considering she had tried everything in the book from the day we met. 4) where did you meet? At a party. 5) how "good" was it? 1-10 rating? 10 back then. I thought it was incredible. I wish I'd waited for my wife. She's makes it that memory a bad one. I got this from a friend whose answers completely shocked me considering how well I thought I knew her! LOL!!! (0) Comments

Reality Check Posted 12/8/2006 3:09:00 AM If you woke up this morning with more health than illness…. You are more fortunate than the million people Who will not survive the week. If you have never experienced the danger of battle, the loneliness of imprisonment, the agony of torture or the pangs of starvation…. You are more fortunate than 50 million people in the world. If you have good food in the refrigerator, clothes on your back, a roof over you head and a place to sleep…. You are richer than 75% of the world. (I have all this and so much more and as such have asked that anyone getting me a present this year, return it and do a kind act for a stranger instead. My needs are well looked after while many will die of exposure and starvation on the streets this winter.) If you have money in the bank, in your wallet, and spare change in a dish somewhere…. You are among the top 8% of the world’s wealthy. If you can read this message…. You are more fortunate than over two billion people in the world that cannot read at all. If you have a loving and caring family and a few true friends to share your ups and downs with…. You should be one thankful person (I'll always be grateful for the incredible friends and family that I have, especially my dear sweet friends here at newblog!) If you want to experience true joy in your life, make this your priority list. It never fails! J - Jesus O - others Y - you Have a truly wonderful and Blessed day, everyone! (P.S. Please pass this incredible message on to as amny people as possible! Change is possible for this world. It starts with you!) (2) Comments

2006/2007 Snow Ball Fight Posted 12/7/2006 2:18:19 AM This one applies to all of you! LOL!!! There's ONLY 18 Days until Christmas!!!! The Time is coming !!Ho Ho HO Let it snow! ~You have just been hit with an e-mail snow ball!~ It's the start of..... Snow Ball Fight 2006 &2007 Rule to this game: You can NOT hit someone who has already hit you! Now... go out there and get as many people as you can, before they get you! I got you first! and you can't get me back! Nanee - Nanee - Nanee! (hehe) We do not stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing. Never Be The First To Get Old!!!!! (0) Comments

A Lesson Learned Posted 12/7/2006 2:15:57 AM You'll need a box of kleenex for this one. sniff, sniff. As she stood in front of her 5th grade class on the very first day of school, she told the children an untruth. Like most teachers, she looked at her students and said that she loved them all the same. However, that was impossible, because there in the front row, slumped in his seat, was a little boy named Teddy Stoddard. Mrs. Thompson had watched Teddy the year before and noticed that he did not play well with the other children, that his clothes were messy and that he constantly needed a bath. In addition, Teddy could be unpleasant. It got to the point where Mrs. Thompson would actually take delight in marking his papers with a broad red pen, making bold X's and then putting a big "F" at the top of his papers. At the school where Mrs. Thompson taught, she was required to review each child's past records and she put Teddy's off until last. However, when she reviewed his file, she was in for a surprise. Teddy's first grade teacher wrote, "Teddy is a bright child with a ready laugh. He does his work neatly and has good manners... he is a joy to be around.." His second grade teacher wrote, "Teddy is an excellent student, well liked by his classmates, but he is troubled because his mother has a terminal illness and life at home must be a struggle." His third grade teacher wrote, "His mother's death has been hard on him. He tries to do his best, but his father doesn't show much interest, and his home life will soon affect him if some steps aren't taken." Teddy's fourth grade teacher wrote, "Teddy is withdrawn and doesn't show much interest in school. He doesn't have many friends and he sometimes sleeps in class." By now, Mrs. Thompson realized the problem and she was ashamed of herself. She felt even worse when her students brought her Christmas presents, wrapped in beautiful ribbons and bright paper, except for Teddy's. His present was clumsily wrapped in the heavy, brown paper that he got from a grocery bag. Mrs. Thompson took pains to open it in the middle of the other presents. Some of the children started to laugh when she found a rhinestone bracelet with some of the stones missing, and a bottle that was one-quarter full of perfume . But she stifled the children's laughter when she exclaimed how pretty the bracelet was, putting it on, and dabbing some of the perfume on he r wrist. Teddy Stoddard stayed after school that day just long enough to say, "Mr! s. Thompson, today you smelled just like my Mom used to." After the children left, she cried for at least an hour. On that very day, she quit teaching reading, writing and arithmetic. Instead, she began to teach children. Mrs. Thompson paid particular attention to Teddy. As she worked with him, his mind seemed to come alive. The more she encouraged him, the faster he responded. By the end of the year, Teddy had become one of the smartest children in the class and, despite her lie that she would love all the children the same, Teddy became one of her "teacher's pets." A year later, she found a note under her door, from Teddy, telling her that she was the best teacher he ever had in his whole life. Six years went by before she got another note from Teddy. He then wrote that he had finished high school, third in his class, and she was still the best teacher he ever had in life. Four years after that, she got another letter, saying that while things had been tough at times, he'd stayed in school, had stuck with it, and would soon graduate from college with the highest of honors. He assured Mrs. Thompson that she was still the best and favorite teacher he had ever had in his whole life. Then four more years passed and yet another letter came. This time he explained that after he got his bachelor's degree, he decided to go a little further. The letter explained that she was still the best and favorite teacher he ever had. But now his name was a little longer.... The letter was signed, Theodore F. Stoddard, MD. The story does not end there. You see, there was yet another letter that spring. Teddy said he had met this girl and was going to be married. He explained that his father had died a couple of years ago and he was wondering if Mrs. Thompson might agree to sit at the wedding in the place that was usually reserved for the mother of the groom. Of course, Mrs. Thompson did. And guess what? She wore that bracelet, the one with several rhinestones missing. Moreover, she made sure she was wearing the perfume that Teddy remembered his mother wearing on their last Christmas together. They hugged each other, and Dr. Stoddard whispered in Mrs. Thompson's ear, "Thank you Mrs Thompson for believing in me. Thank you so much for making me feel important and showing me that I could make a difference." Mrs. Thompson, with tears in her eyes, whispered back. She said, "Teddy, you have it all wrong. You were the one who taught me that I could make a difference. I didn't know how to teach until I met you." (For you that don't know, Teddy Stoddard is a Dr. at Iowa Methodist in Des Moines that has the Stoddard Cancer Wing.) Warm someone's heart today. . . pass this along. I love this story so very much, I cry every time I read it. Just try to make a difference in someone's life today? tomorrow? just "do it". Random acts of kindness, I think they call it! "Believe in Angels, then return the favor" (0) Comments

A Christmas Prayer For All Of You Posted 12/7/2006 1:03:11 AM May the day of the birth of our Lord and Savior, Shine upon you and guide you May this glorious day bring you closer to our Lord And allow you to lead your life on the path to God May this glorious day bless you and your family and loved ones, with an abundance of love, joy and peacefrom our Lord Jesus Christ May you have a very Merry Christmas and a most joyous New Year!!!!! (0) Comments

A Christmas Poem Posted 12/7/2006 12:52:56 AM Have a Holly Jolly Christmas, while walking thru a Winter wonderland, bells will be ringing as we go caroling,caroling thru the snow, and the smell of Chestnuts roasting on and open fire, showing us its beginning to look like Christmas. With every thing in silver and gold, we begin to deck the halls, with pretty paper and bows, and hoping it wont be a blue christmas because Iam wishing for a white christmas. As we go tell it on the mountain, we see Frosty the snow man, and mistletoe and holly, over the river and thru the woods, as were rocking around the Christmas tree, as we take a sleigh ride thru O little town of Bethlehem, singing the 12 days of Christmas. We hear the Hark the herald Angels sing, as we 3 kings of Orient are, with bells on, we wish you a Merry Christmas, and a Feliz Navidad. As we sing the first noel, away in the manger, we are asking what child is this,that is a breath of heaven, an O holy night this has been, that God rest ye merry gentleman. That have come upon a midnight clear, we know that it will not be a hard candy Christmas because Christ is born in Bethlehem,and it will be a different kind of Christmas this year. Because Santa Claus is coming to town, and Grandma got run over by a reindeer. As we ran home for the holidays, I saw Mommy kissing Santa Claus, it must have been the mistletoe, that made Santa look alot like Daddy. As a silent night came thru, for that sweet little Jesus boy, we want to wish you a Merry Christmas,as run run Rudolph is up on the rooftop, with bells on, the night before Christmas. So put a little holiday into your heart, and come all ye faithful, and sing Joy to the World, in Excelsis Gloria,as you hear the bells on Christmas day, that Mary's child has been born, under the beautiful star of Bethlehem. (0) Comments

Candle In The Window Posted 12/7/2006 12:46:55 AM Once, I read a story That told there was no light In any window, long ago, On that first Christmas night. So, I decided to light a candle As Christmas day draws near. I'll put it in my window To welcome my Jesus, here. Should He pass by my window, The weary Christ would see That, when I wrapped the presents And put decorations on the tree ... I stopped and took a minute To light a candle for Him, To say, "You're welcome here, Lord," In case he should pass my inn. (0) Comments

They Still Don't Know Posted 12/7/2006 12:38:58 AM At Christmas time there was a man, who looked so out of place. As people rushed about him, at a hurried sort of pace. He stared at all the Christmas lights, the tinsel everywhere. The shopping center Santa Claus, with children gathered near. The mall was packed with shoppers, who were going to and fro. Some with smiles, some with frowns, and some too tired to go. They rested on benches, or they hurried on their way. To fight the crowds for purchases, to carry home that day. The music from the stereo, was playing loud and clear. Of Santa Claus and snowmen, and funny nosed reindeer. He heard the people talk about, the good times on the way. Of parties, fun and food galore, and gift exchange that day. I'd like to know what's going on, the man was heard to say. There seems to be some sort, of celebration on the way. And would you tell me who this is, all dressed in red and white. And why are children asking "him" about a special night. The answer came in disbelief, I can't believe my ear. I can't believe you do not know, that Christmas time is here. The time when Santa comes around, with gifts for girls and boys. When they are asleep on Christmas Eve, he leaves them books and toys. The man you see in red and white, is Santa Claus so sly. The children love his joyful laugh, and twinkle in his eye. His gift packed sleigh is pulled along, by very small reindeer. As he flies quickly through the air, while darting here and there. The children learn of Santa Claus, while they are still quite small. When Christmas comes "he" is the most, "important" one of all. The stranger hung His head in shame, He closed a nail pierced hand. His body shook in disbelief, He did not understand. A shadow crossed His stricken face, His voice was low but clear. "After all these years they still don't know." And JESUS shed a tear. ~ Author Unknown ~ Something to think about at this time of year, if not the whole year through. (0) Comments

A Lesson To Be Learned From Typing The Wrong E-Mail Address Posted 12/7/2006 12:06:28 AM (Here's a chuckle I couldn't resist sharing with all of you.) A Minneapolis couple decided to go to Florida to thaw out during a particularly icy winter. They planned to stay at the same hotel, where they spent their honeymoon 20 years before. Because of their hectic schedules, it was difficult to coordinate their travel schedules. So, the husband left Minneapolis and flew to Florida on Friday, and his wife was flying down the following day. The husband checked into the hotel, and unlike years ago, there was a computer in his room, and he decided to send an email to his wife. However, he accidentally left out one letter in her email address, and without noticing his error, sent>the email to the wrong address. Meanwhile...somewhere in Houston... a widow had just returned home from her husband's funeral. He was a Minister who was called home to glory after suffering a heart attack. The widow decided to check her email, expecting messages from relatives and friends. After reading the first message, she screamed and then fainted. The widow's son rushed>>into the room, found his mother on the floor, and then glanced up and saw the computer screen which read: To: My Loving Wife Date: Friday, October 13, 2005 Subject: I have Arrived! Dearest Love: I know you are surprised to hear from me. They have computers here now, and you are allowed to send email to your loved ones. I have just arrived and have been checked in. I see that everything has been prepared for your arrival tomorrow, and look forward to seeing you then. Hope your journey is as uneventful as mine was. PS: Sure is freaking hot down here! (0) Comments

The Tax Assessor Posted 12/6/2006 5:55:56 AM A tax assessor came one day to a poor pastor to determine the amount of taxes the pastor would have to pay. The following conversation took place; "What property do you possess?" asked the assessor. "I am a very wealthy man," replied the minister. "List your possessions, please," the assessor instructed. "First, I have everlasting life (John 3:16). "Second, I have a mansion in heaven (John 14:2). "Third, I have peace that passeth understanding (Philippians 4:7). "Fourth, I have joy unspeakable (1 Peter 1:8). "Fifth, I have divine love which never faileth (1 Corinthians 13:8). "Sixth, I have a faithful precious wife (Proverbs 31:10). "Seventh, I have healthy, happy obedient children (Exodus 20:12). "Eighth, I have true, loyal friend (Proverbs 18:24). "Ninth, I have songs in the night (Psalms 42:8). "Tenth, I have a crown of life (James 1:12)." The tax assessor closed his book, and said, "Truly you are a very rich man, but your wealth is not subject to taxation. PRAYER "Lord Jesus, make me a herald of your word of truth and grace. Help me to be a faithful witness of the joy of the gospel and to point others to you as John did through his testimony." "Borrowed" from my new friend, Noel. Truly inspiring isn't it? (0) Comments