The Tenth Day of Christmas.... All in the Family

To kick start the last three days of My Christmas, I will now move into the realm of personal experience. 3 tales of people I know who have personally been an inspiration to me, not necessarily because they are related to me and that I learned from them, but just who they are, their character traits, and belief systems. First I offer you my Parents and Grandparents.

My Grandparents were old country through and through. Coming over from Poland, they were the antithesis of the polish joke., hard working, intelligent, as far as "street knowledge" goes, and hard working. My Grandmother raised 7 kids, without any kind of government aid, and with only her husband, my Grandfather, working. Yes, you say things were cheaper back then, but then wages were not that much either.

They walked everywhere they needed to go to. All the stores they needed were within good walking distance. they needed wood for the stove?? they chopped it. Needed apples?? they grew them. everything was home made. sewing, cooking. They taught me the value of hard work, and perseverance. they laid down the rules and like my parents, were not afraid to whip their children when they misbehaved. Not to be abusive, hardly. they demanded obedience, but they also knew how to create an environment where obedience was fun, and rewarding. woe to us when we did disobey, but under these conditions, we would be nuts to disobey.

I do not think it was a coincidence when both my Grandparents lived well up into their 80's, and my mom is still with me in her mid 80's. I have no doubts that the traditions of the old country, hard work, firm but loving care, mostly natural and home made foods, a good solid religious upbringing, respect for others, perseverance, and Independence, helped fuel their longevity.

To this day I honor my parents and Grandparents with my belief in hard work, optimism, confidence (which all go together. If you are merely optimistic and confident, well and good, but to get anything done, you need to get your hands dirty and get to work). steadfast religious beliefs, and strong family attitude of honor and respect for my elders, and for the opposite sex.

I fail at times, like they did, and like we all do, but to this second, I stand firm in what I believe in, and I owe it to my own everyday heroes, My parents and grandparents.

Here's to our ancestors... and their children.

The Ninth Day of Christmas.. Bethlehems Manger

Excuse the Delay in posting. I had anticipated the 12 days of Christmas to be finished by oh.. say.. CHRISTMAS... but I myself was caught up into the holiday Spirit of being busy and having my usual Christmas fun. I hope everyone had a joyous Christmas, and are anticipating the best year yet coming up!!

but the inspiration never ends here, So here is my Ninth story of inspiration, and it comes right from Bethlehem's Manger.

Now you may be saying, "Yes, I know the story of the manger and how tranquil and serene it was, a setting of perfect peace and harmony... "Silent Night, Holy Night, Oh little town of Bethlehem, how STILL we see thee lie.. right???"

WRONG! yes Bethlehem's Manger IS a symbol of inspiration, but NOT because it was so peaceful and tranquil. Lets look at it.

Bethlehem, at the time of the Census was a city of Chaos! everyone was in town for the Census, so much so that there was, of course no room at the Inn. Try to imagine a peaceful setting when you are trying to get your 14 or 15 year old 9 month Pregnant wife on a mule to a city in chaos because of a Census. Oh, I bet that was a joy..

It was also a scene of Obscurity... a manger?? what a manger was was actually a feed trough. a very obscure place to be born in a very obscure and chaotic city.

And of course there was the rejection. No room at the Inn, because of the chaos of Bethlehem at that time.

OK. Bethlehem's manger.. Chaos.. Obscurity.. rejection.... Why?? and why is this a scene of inspiration.

Well, because, believe it or not, this describes our lives at times, doesn't it?? who amongst us can honestly say that there is not SOME chaos in our lives this time of year?? be honest. whether it be the many Christmas parties we feel obligated to attend, or maybe the unwanted or unexpected visitor, or the chaos of last minute, or first minute shopping?? CHAOS!

then theres the feelings of obscurity. Ever feel like you as a person are lost in the shuffle?? that you will not be remembered, or your gift will find itself on someones shelf, and never be seen or used again?? do you feel the true meaning of Christmas is being overwhelmed by the commercialism?? Hey over here in Detroit (and I am sure many cities, they have people who have lived here many years ago that they named streets after. must be famous people Hmmm?? well today no one remembers them. Obscurity...

and then there is rejection. Why is the Christmas season so depressing for some?? its because of the feelings of rejection some of us feel. yes, we may be invited to lots of parties, but once those parties are over, and the celebrations stop, it is back to the old life, and if we feel rejected before, than the feelings can get worse once the season is over. Heck even when I was a kid I would get some feeling of rejection if my sister got more gifts than I did. I am sure it is not so much different today.

OK, so why is this inspiring?? well I believe that This scenario in Bethlehem, Chaos, obscurity, rejection, happened PURPOSEFULLY, so that We know that our Savior has been there, done that. So we can go to Him when we are feeling these feelings, because we hear Him saying to us from the manger... "Hey, I know your feelings of Chaos in your life. your feelings of obscurity, and rejection. I have been there. I understand!"

I believe there was no Silent Night that night. And when I am feeling feelings of Chaos, obscurity, and rejection, I am glad it wasn't. I am inspired that the Prince of Peace was BORN into those same situations.

He indeed understands.

The Eighth Day of Christmas..Riders and Angels

I will get right to the story here, because this is too powerful, and it makes us think the next time we may complain about long lines at Airports or Shopping malls this time of year.

John Johnson, US Army Spec has survived 5 bombings. this time however he was laid up in a hospital recovering again from massive injuries suffered in still another one. but this time is different. Different because earlier in his recovery, his wife and three children were involved in a car accident that killed all three of the children. they were all driving over to see their Dad in recovery.

To lose one child is bad enough. but to lose all three while you yourself are recovering from massive injuries?? and to lose them just before Thanksgiving?? How can any of us, including parents look at this story and actually feel we have a right to complain about long mall lines??

But here's where the heroes come in! More than 200 Patriot Guard Riders, a band of motorcyclists served as one of the childrens pallbearers. they travelled from many states to attend. Anonymous donors provided funds for funeral expenses.

The Soldiers Angels provided hotel rooms for the Johnson's family, this group also provided funding for food and other needs. the VFW and Operation Comfort also pitched in to cover expenses.

The Fisher House Foundations Hero Miles program provided travel for Johnson to get his injured wife, and American Airlines picked up the tab for the airfare for them to travel to their childrens funerals. The PGA raised almost 100, 000 dollars for a new car and other expenses, and Operation Home front will use any monies left over to provide a memorial fund. heroes all.

Let us not complain about meaningless things this Christmas. Let us count our blessings, and let us remember these organizations who can be blessings to others.

Love to all.

The Seventh Day of Christmas... Hail Ceasar??

Well now you may think I have flipped my lid, or ate too much fruitcake and rum punch. "OK" you say "The first 6 days of Christmas was very inspiring, but .. Ceasar Augustus?? " Now two things are probably happening here. Number one, you may not know who Caesar Augustus was, and those who do wonder what does he have to do with inspiration? Wasn't he the one who decreed that the whole world be taxed, which eventually sent Joseph and Mary into Bethlehem?? Yes, also known as the Christmas Story



Yes he was, so hear me out. Emperor Augustus took over after the assassination of Julius Caesar. Augustus also was a victim of a conspiracy against him but he survived and went on to rule, and eventually United the whole Empire, and eventually had a statue erected to himself which basically read.. Hail Caesar Augustus.. Savior of the world". Now with most rulers, this went to his head, and like a lot of rich folks, he liked to count what he had, so he decreed that everyone go back to his home city to be counted, so he could pursue his tax. Thus led Joseph and Mary to go to Bethlehem, where Jesus, the REAL savior of the universe was born.



OK, so how is this inspiring?? Well I do believe that God USED this egomaniacal ruler for HIS purpose, basically saying... Hey Caesar.. YOU don't control history.. I DO" I believe that for many of us, we have in our lives a Caesar Augustus waving a census in front of our face, basically telling us.. "hey, I have control over you. YOU don't matter, I do. I have the power over you." be it a spouse, a child, a boss, a co worker, whoever, there is someone in our lives who wants to Lord his power over you, whether emotionally or physically.



Well we can use this story to realize that this person who claims to have this power over you, has nothing. He does not control your history, God does. Its interesting to note that No one would have even KNOWN about Ceasar Augustas if it wasn't for the Christmas story. Think about it. where else would you have known about this man???



God USES this mans power against him, and as a result, all of man will benefit for all time. Is there someone manipulating you in your life today?? remember the lessons echoing through 2000 years of history. THAT person does not control your history.. God does.

The Sixth Day of Christmas. Hero Marine at McDonalds

Marines are all heroes in my opinion, but mostly they are known for their battlefield toughness and loyalty. but this episode on my 6Th Day of Christmas happened far from a battlefield, It happened at McDonald's.

Jamie Nicholson, Marine Corp DI, was tired and hungry. He pulled into a McDonald's drive through (He was still in his camouflage uniform, and thus according to Marine Regs, he could not enter a public building) as he pulled in he heard the cashier scream! It turns out a man at the window who was trying to retrieve his change accidentally put his foot on the accelerator and his car lurched forward with his head still out the window, pinning his head between the door, and a pillar.

For the full inspiring story, click here. To Nicholson, it came naturally. He was a man in trouble, and he was there to help. Semper Fi!!! (always faithful.. a good motto anywhere)

Nicholson raced to the scene, broke the mans window, and, kneeling on broken glass, freed the man from his trap, knowing full well that since the mans foot was still on the accelerator, any moment the car could lurch forward and kill them both. But he acted without thinking.

The Fifth Day of Christmas..Scouts Honor

The Boy Scouts, a truly Honorable organization has been under fire by clueless groups who have no idea how valuable the Boy and girl Scouts are. Without getting on my soapbox more, here is the story of Kevin Bardsley, and his son Garrett, a boy scout, who saved another scout, Brennan Hawkins. the way Kevin helped save Brennan was inspiring enough, but the way Garrett did was truly a tale to make you proud and inspired.

You see, Garrett, like Sprite the dog in my previous post, was not alive at the time of his greatest deed. Garrett Died in the Uinta Mountains after he took a wrong turn on a hike. 11 days of searching by his father, and other authorities came up empty. Garrett's father Kevin started up a memorial fund for his son. a fund that would eventually supply GPS units and other devices used to search for missing people. When Kevin got the news of Brennans disappearance, he could have balked, but instead he brushed back memories of his son and went on the quest to find Brennan.

Using horses, ATVs, and GPS units, he put together a search party. using the information he gathered from his search for his own son, he worked diligently to find Brennan. It was his knowledge of his failed search for his own son that eventually led the rescuers to find Brennan, scratched and sunburned.. But alive.

Kevin Bardsley gave up his time and comfort to help save another scout. Yes, he had flashbacks to the tragedy of his own son, but he worked through that. Brennan will not be another Garrett.

Garrets death helped save another Scout from death. With the help of many volunteers, a memorial fund, and the devotion and diligence of His Father, Kevin Bardsley. another hero, I honor on the fifth day of Christmas.

The Fourth Day of Christmas....Sprite

Well as you can see, by this adorable picture, I am not talking about the soft drink here. And when I speak of Pepsi, I am not talking about the drink either. Pepsi is Sprites doggy friend adopted by the Levin family.

Pepsi and Sprite were inseparable and also, as many pets do, brought a whole family together, in love and togetherness. It was wonderful watching Sprite and Pepsi "grow" together. But when the time came, that happens to pets and humans alike, when the old body ages and decays, and it was time to put Sprite away, it left heartbreak and almost devastation, so close were this family, and Pepsi to Sprite.

But what happened AFTER Sprites death is the real inspiration. Sprites life brought a family together. His death brought a community together. I am enclosing some links here that will direct you to more information about this wonderful story.

The book is called Rescuing Sprite. The Levin family rescued Sprite, little did they know that later on, Sprite would return the favor from beyond the grave.

Sometimes we never know the influence we have on people. Sometimes we may NEVER know in this life. But I believe in heaven we will see people we did not expect, and they will say to us.. "YOU are the reason I am here. It was YOUR efforts and love, that led me to saving faith.

Never stop doing good. We never know who it will affect. I wonder if Sprite did.

The Third Day of Christmas... The kids are all right

On the third day of my Christmas, more stories of hope and encouragement, this time coming from the younger generation. Now when I was growing up, as well as today, the standard question from the "older" generation was always.."whats wrong with the kids today?" Well may I present to you some kids today who are providing inspiration, not only to their peers, but to most parents out there. I am talking about the young men and women whoare a part of True Love Waits, an offshoot of Lifeways Student ministries. these brave young people are flying in the face of peer pressure and cultural norms by taking vows of celibacy and purity until they are married. click here for the awesome pledge that they take.

In the 10 years that the organization has existed, over 4269 teens have taken this pledge, and this past year, over 350 teens have taken the pledge.

this is not an organization you hear too much about, because popular culture brands this as wierd. I mean after all, Abstinence and purity until marriage?? hogwash. everyone knows that CONDOMS are the answer, and every teen must have some free of charge from the schools.

I applaud these teens for what they are doing, and sticking to the high moral ground in giving their prospective spouse a gift they have been working on all their lives. mainly themselves.

I strongly advise a visit to thissite to find out more about these inspiring young people.

In the words of peter Townsend and The Who... the Kids are alright!!

The Second Day of Christmas.. Courage

In a day when movie stars, Athletes, and politicians are considered "heroes" by the sole means of their acting ability, their ability to catch or throw or hit balls, or their charisma, real heroes are all but left out of the spotlight. one of the most neglected bunch is our soldiers. Whether fighting wars abroad, or simply keeping us safe here, their selfless acts of courage touch individual lives, their deeds go unsung. So here is their song.

Paul Ray Smith was 33 when he was fatally wounded near Baghdad International Airport. Smith braved horrendous enemy fire to repel an attack by more than 100 heavily armed terrorists and saved the lives of dozens of his soldiers and buddies.

Jason Dunham was only 22 when on April 14th 2004 wile struggling with a suspected insurgent after an ambush. the terrorist released a hand grenade. Without thought, Dunham covered the grenade with his helmet and body and saved the lives of 2 of his fellow Marines.

There is no greater love than to lay ones life down for his friends. The hope and inspiration derived from these stories is that courage and honor still exist in this world, and whether fighting war, or just trying to keep peace in the family, doing the right thing even when no one will sing our praises for doing so, is the apex of honor and inspiration to those who will hear those stories.

The second day of Christmas, I salute the courage and honor of these men who made the ultimate sacrifice so that others may go on living.

The First Day of Christmas... John Gibbons

The San Diego Fires were a time of tragedy for sure. But as in all tragedies, heroes emerged. There were the brave firemen (aren't they all) , the people who live there and face this kind of problem regularly, and there is John Gibbons.

John lived with his 76 year old mother, and half-brother David in a trailer park located in a canyon so remote that cell phones do not even work there. It was not much, to be sure, but for them, it was home.

When the inevitable happened and the firefighters came to evacuate them, Johns mom refused. and refused. and refused. Finally the time came for them to forcible remove her from her only home, and relocating her,and her two sons to a friends home a couple of miles away. the sight of this woman was truly a tragic one, bleeding from the nose, and crying "I have no where else to go"

After an hour of this, John Gibbons could stand no more of this. He persuaded his friend to help him onto a motorcycle where he proceeded to head back to the mobile home, and the flames.

For two days he raced around the perimeter with his friend, frantically shoveling dirt on any small fires that were erupting on the property, as huge palm trees exploded nearby beside the propane tanks around them.

Finally after two days it was over. 80 per cent of the trailer park was gone. Moms trailer still stood. When asked why he did it, John said "Mom wanted to go home, and its all we got".. Nuff Ced.

Was he a fool or a hero?? well I guess it depends on your take. If he and his friend would have died, people would have called them fools I guess, but in my opinion, a real man, a real hero will come to the aid of a woman in tears anytime. A fool to some, but a hero to others, and I hope a good story of inspiration for my first day of Christmas.

You can read the link here for more details.

MY 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS.

Twelve stories of hope and cheer

The Christmas season is here, and amidst the rush of last minute shopping, and the pressure to give gifts that are of equal or greater value of the ones we get. (why we do that, I will never know) And the general angst associated with people forgetting the real reason for Christmas, I have decided to post twelve real stories of love, sacrifice, and hope, performed by real people, real heroes. The first one is due shortly, so stay tuned. Enjoy and remember, the reason for Christmas is Joy indescribably, and Peace that can never be found anywhere.

Let's Save CHRISTmas

My birthday celebrations are over, its been great, and I thank my friends and you all for helping me celebrate it! What a wonderful time to have a birthday!. I am happy, healthy, and even lost 8 and a half pounds in the last two weeks. How did I do it?? well ask me, and Ill explain.

But now its back to my soapbox and a topic I am passionate about, and that is the attempt to steal away Christmas. this link shows the latest futile attempt to make Christmas extinct. From schools and workplaces disallowing us to even SAY the word "Christmas" to ne'er-do-wells trying to cancel Christmas parades and manger scenes, because they "offend" (get a life, all you people who are offended) to some schools even banning Christmas COLORS.

So now ABC news says that our Economy is causing us to perhaps cancel Christmas? or maybe making us spend less at Christmas (a.k.a "the holidays" for you easily offended folks)
Well who says that you HAVE to spend whole gobs of money for Christmas (a.k.a "the holidays for... oh skip it). Isn't Christmas supposed to be a celebration of Peace, Love, and Joy, a celebration of the birth of the baby who grew up to be the man who died on the cross for our sins? Is it about family and friends, and the joy of knowing there IS a real peace out there, and a real, lasting joy out there, and not an occasion to run yourself into debt, or eat till you explode (although that last part is fun).

So even if our economy is sagging (which it is not) lets do three things. First off, lets Celebrate CHRISTmas, and not be afraid to say it, sing it, pray it, and live it. bring on the manger scenes, and Santa Claus, and Carols, and the Green and Silver and Red, and the parades and pageants, and lets actually SAY "Merry CHRISTmas" to each other. Second, if money is tight, lets not think about it. Use Christmas to be the season that it is. Joyous, Happy and Wonderful!.

And lastly, pay no attention to people who want to steal this away from you. In fact, laugh at them because they are laughable. I mean really.... if Christmas, a season of real Love, real Peace, and real Joy offends them, what are they going to do when the REAL problems come up.

Probably leave .... oh well, Bon Voyage

THE LAKERS

Contrary to the Title, this is not an article about the Los Angeles basketball team. In fact, if the first thing that came to your mind was Kobe Bryant, then maybe you are not the person to read this post. I, like all other dwellers of the Great Lakes know that when we talk Lakers, we are talking about the great freighters that travail the lakes, and sometimes, end up under them.

And one of the best places to me for watching these great boats is Port Huron, Michigan, where Lake Huron pours into the St. Clair river. This visit was the conclusion of my birthday celebration, and I am sorry this post was so late in coming, but I have been battling some minor ailments which had me more worried than anything else.

But Port Huron is one of my favorite destinations, and I wanted to share this centerpiece of my celebration with you. I stayed at the Thomas Edison Inn, where they really do things right. From the maids (should we still call them "maids"?) to the receptionists, to the waitresses, everyone knows how to make a guest feel welcome. the rooms are great and the view is perfect, and the restaurant there is first rate (I love the lights that dim as the evening gets darker). You'll want to order the stuffed Portabella Mushroom with spinach and cheese.

The city itself is a normal city. Except for the location and the usual nautical themes that any Port City has, the city itself is OK. The usual Malls await you, and they also have a nifty little chicken place called "Chicken in the Rough" (kind of like a glorified KFC except you must eat with your hands unless you ASK for utensils.. it is after all, Chicken in the Rough)

For the history buffs, there is the train Depot where Thomas Edison himself got booted off the train when he was hawking newspapers. For more info on that story visit Greenfield Villiage.

A lovely long 50 minute walk awaits you on the boardwalk there that stretches well over a mile until you are underneath the Blue Water Bridge. Ah, but then you have to walk back to get the view from the other side.

Now this may be unimpressive to most people. but to me, its a perfect getaway. The weather may be a bit Raw, but if you live by the Great Lakes, ya gotta love it!!

And thanks to all who viewed my posts during this fun time. remember to leave comments! Don't leave me high and dry!

"Lake Huron Rolls, Superior sings
in the ruins of her ice water mansions
Old Michigan steams like a young mans dreams
the Islands and Bays are for sportsmen

And farther below, Lake Ontario
Takes in what Lake Erie can give her
And the iron boats go as the mariners all know
With the gales of November remembered"

From "The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald"

RANDOM THOUGHTS 2

My Birthday is over, but the celebration is not. More great posts to come on that, but in between turning 53 and 54 here are more random thoughts that go through my head.

If Crash and Collision mean the same thing, how come "Crash Course" and "Collision course" mean different things?

It is much easier to become a father than to be one.

We turn our clocks back an hour this weekend to save Daylight. How do you figure that?? we still have the same amount of daylight, we just re arrange it.

As a man, I love these new GPS systems. Now I have a 350 dollar reason not to ask for directions

I get a kick when people call Ballplayers and Actors "hero's". I am sorry, but Ballplayers and Entertainers are not "heroes". They are talented performers who give us great performances, but if you want real hero's, talk to a Policeman, Fireman, or Soldier. Or even a Mother and Father who sacrifice to bring their kids up the right way. Or A teenager who defies peer pressure to do the right thing.

A person who says he is overworked is usually working the wrong way.

Suppose there was a disease out there that was killing a lot of people. And we had an antidote for it that was 100 per cent successful, but we seldom used it. Would we be considered foolish??
Well Aids is that disease and the perfect cure is Abstinence and monogamy. but the common idea today is that we are foolish if we DO use it.

I hope we can get back to the time honored tradition of celebrating Christmas more than we do Halloween.

If you wanted to go from Reno, Nevada, to San Diego California, would you head East, or West??
Hint: Its NOT west. look it up.

Name the two States that have names of Other States contained in them?? Answer Arkansas, and West Virginia (Kansas and Virginia)

Does anyone Iron anymore??

Why do Ladies get "Permanents" and then later on, get another one?? Doesn't the word "permanent" mean like... forever??

I wonder how Lou Gehrig felt when they told him he had Lou Gehrig's Disease?

Well that's it for now, hey these thoughts get better with age, don't they?? Don't answer that one. Until next time!!!

VILLAGE PEOPLE

Well, after doing a lot of fun things so far this birthday month (including a not so fun ailment last few days) I decided that the present time just could not hold all the fun, so I went back into the past, to Greenfield Village in Dearborn, Michigan, just 2 miles from where I live ( and to all my adoring fans.. you both know who you are.. please do not try to find my house from this info).

Greenfield Village, now named The Henry Ford, for reasons I cannot fully fathom, is a village with houses, churches, transportation, schools, and crafts that date back from the puritan days to the early 1900s. The cover photo that greets you is a replica of Independence Hall where some of the greatest minds of our time, started the greatest country ever!!

Other notable highlights are Henry Fords birthplace, The Wright Brothers bicycle shop, which includes a piece of the famous airplane, Edison's workshop, and old covered bridge, a slave plantation complete with tobacco plants (or Cigarette Trees as I like to call em), one of the first cars ever made, and many old time craft shops, and, oh yes, a working farm, complete with men plowing.

In the summer there is old time baseball games complete with Uniforms and rules from the 1880's, and you can ride the Sawanee, an old steam Riverboat. It is very easy to lose yourself in the time and forget that you are in the year 2007. Now occasionally, an airplane or two will fly overhead and you are kind of jolted back to the present, but you are almost instantly whisked back into time, with live demonstrations of crafts like glassblowing and blacksmithing, and a real old time school which you can "attend" beware though of talking in class, the teachers were very strict in those days.

Oh there is too much more to be said about this place other than I had a great time. It is a perfect educational experience, and a fun time to boot. For you modern day travellers, there is an IMAX theater right next door.

And, oh by the way, even though there is an old fashioned General store there the prices unfortunately are modern day, so don't try to con the vendors please.

Now that I am back in the present, it is time for more birthday fun, with a trip to Port Huron, mateys. That will come in 2 weeks, so stay tuned. Ill leave you with this saying from Thomas Edison..

"Those who say they are overworked, are usually working the wrong way"

CIDER TIME!

October in Michigan. With the exception of New England, is there a better place to spend the fall?? I don't think so!! granted, the colors are not out yet this year, due to the hot September and early October, and i regret not showing that, but they should pop up in future posts. hey, my Birthday celebration is not over yet!!

This part was taken at Ruby Farms in Ruby Michigan (how convenient to put it there) just West of Port Huron ,where I am going in 3 weeks. this is a simple little Mill but to me it is one of the best places to go. It is also a Christmas tree farm where you can go and cut down your own trees just like the old days. To have an old fashioned Christmas means having a natural tree!!

The Cider there is first rate, and made fresh in the morning. They are only open weekends, so they can concentrate on producing this luscious potable during the week. nothing beats going for a ride in the Michigan woods with a glass of hot cider! (well actually a plastic cup.. why they call it a "glass" is beyond me, but I digress) in gorgeous 50 degree crisp weather.

They have other things there too like a carousel, fire engine rides, a Christmas store, haunted house (sorry folks, I just barely got over my fear of clowns, you are not going to get me into a haunted house yet!

You can walk along trails to where the quiet is deafening. Of course I have to walk the whole trail, even the spots where i may or may not be able to go. Fortunately they now have signs as to the limits you can walk.

They have a neat little animal cemetery also. I think it is a fictional cemetery, the animals are not really buried there, but the guide tells me these animals actually existed on the farm ,and met their fate just like the tombstone says.

People watching is fun too over there, as it is anywhere, especially the kids. to me they seem to like the Christmas tree farm. And I do not blame them. I mean if i saw hundreds of Christmas trees lined up in a field, I would get giddy for the season too!

It was a great time and I picked up some Cider to take home on these upcoming chilly evenings!

I really would like to thank my Mom and my Dad (rest in peace, Dad) for arraigning that I be born in October! what a month!! And Thanks to all of you readers and posters for coming along with me on this trip!!

OH BTW I hear that even Charlie Brown got his famous Christmas tree here too!

I'd hug you, but I cant afford a Lawyer

I would like to interrupt my birthday celebration (which is going fine, for the most part) , and maybe also because I am feeling a bit cranky today to post this link about the school that has banned hugs, amongst other things.

With education in a sorry state today with our young children being taught the lies that America is bad, and that our brave forefathers were racist scum, you would think they would have better things to do than to ban hugs, tag and most displays of affection. Now what does this teach them about when they grow up, especially the boys. that touching is bad?? That having strong loving dffeelings for the opposite sex is bad?? and if it is good, then showing it must be bad. Look here. Common sense dictates that if you hug someone or touch someone, and they do not return it, or tell you to stop, you stop! Case closed. You do not try to get hugs, or touching banned. Think of what would happen if we banned everything that offended even just one person. If we offend someone, we apologise, and not do it again. Seems that some school officials need to start thinking about things like teaching our kids correct history and science, and stop meddling into the normal activities of children.

Well now that I wrote about it, I may as well confess. When I was six years old, a classmate gave me five cents if I would go and Kiss this one girl I liked. so I kissed her. She kicked me hard in the shins. end of story. I got my nickel, but I did not kiss her anymore. I guess today I would be in jail!

I should count my blessings.

Need a hug today?? I guess we need to have a lawyer handy.

SAIL AWAY!!

With Apologies to David Gray, Yes its time to Sail Away on a birthday voyage that all are invited to. Step aboard the deck of my solid ship of celebration, and lets go on a joyous month long trip to celebrate birth, life, love, and victory!

Why all the fuss?? well that will be explained in a soon to be released post. But for now let me just say I am eagerly anticipating my October and Early November voyages. Fall Colors, Cider Mills, which I will report on which Mill has the worlds BEST Cider! a tour of the past, and a trip down to an old, but quaint Port City where my voyage will come to a rollicking close. No Mutineers allowed, just shipmates.

And for those, more practical swabs, I will say, I am NOT shirking my responsibilities. the burdens and committments of work and home will be more than taken care of. I worked last Saturday with a headcold cleaning the house and making sure all my things were in order. Work first, play second is a great philosophy! And I always work hard and play hard.

Oh and for those of you who are already thinking that I am wierd, here is more ammo for you. I intend to buy myself gifts too!! what?? has he gone loony?? Is he really a few fries short of a happy meal?? and to top it off, I intend to post them all here. so for those of you who read this, and I know theres a few, although SOME of you do not post comments (major hint here) I just want to warn you, theres more to come.

So in conclusion, let me say that the celebration is underway, all are invited. Scuttle all your troubles away, and come aboard with me for a wonderous journey aboard my fancy rowb.....HEY!! WHO MESSED WITH ME BOAT! ARGGGGGGG

With three days left until my long birthday celebration, here's whats on my mind:

Do you realize Captain Kangaroo is neither a Captain, nor a Kangaroo?

If someone says he has a right to respect, what he is saying is that you don't have a right to your opinion.

One of the greatest organizations out there is "true love waits" here are a group of kids who are defying peer pressure and abstaining from sex until they are married. they are the true heroes in my book. What is more romantic and sexy than to know that you are, and always will be, your lovers first and ONLY partner?

Why don't they invent a peanut butter jar that opens on BOTH ends. Thus we do away with that annoying scraping the bottom of the jar with a knife that we hope is long enough to reach.

One of my favorite movie lines: "we never realize the most significant events of our lives while they are happening. Back then I thought: 'Well, there will be other days'.. I did'nt realize that... that was the ONLY day" Field of Dreams

Where was the Battle of Bunker Hill fought?? Breeds Hill!

Despite the old saying, it is not really that hard to sell a refrigerator to an Eskimo. they often use it to keep foods from freezing.

They say that flying is the safest way to travel. I dont know how much consideration they have given to walking.

Theres not enough Days in October, my favorite month!

have you ever been reading an article that you absolutely hated, but continued to read it till the end??

I am 53 years old and I just found out 4 years ago there is a big difference between sewing and knitting.

Don't you long for the days when the news shows were only half an hour long and only ran once a day??

Question: If you call a tail a leg, How many legs does a dog have?? Answer: Still four! CALLING a tail a leg, does not MAKE it one. Good lesson to learn next time we start to assume something about someone.

Why does my 85 year old mom who has not driven in 20 years get "safe driving" awards in the mail?

Well thats whats in my brain at the moment. Scary Hmmm?? updates to follow, I'm sure!!!

This place is a Zoo!!

Well its not exactly time for my month long birthday celebration, but I took the opportunity of a great late September Saturday to go to the Toledo Zoo! I like this Zoo more than the Detroit Zoo because the animals here seem to be more active. It is almost like they are saying "here we are, come look at us" whereas the Detroit Zoo animals are like.."you here AGAIN??" we're sleeping!

More to see at this zoo than just animals as these poorly posted pictures will bear out. Forgive me if they are out of whack, I am a newbie here. Anyway the Zoo had an old car show going on, and that was fun, and I enjoyed the train ride into the heart of "Africa". Snack time demanded a Waffle cone and I was only happy to oblige my stomach, while I people watched. Watching people at the zoo is very interesting. look at the entrances and exits, whic hare usually the same. I see people coming in with their kids and they are all happy and the kids are happy and they are fresh and rested. Looking at the exit and the people going out and you will see tired and restless kids, and parents who looked like they just went 12 rounds with the animals they just saw. Someone once said tha tthey wonder if in a zoo the animals are watching us more than we are watching them... If thats true, then the question begs.. "who is more entertained??"

But this is a great zoo, and being fond of exotic animals like I am I always enjoy this trip. I guess I am most fond of the animals I know most about. Snakes, Lions and Elephants. theres more to these animals than names on the Chinese Zodiac will tell you.

Zoos are great family entertainment, and the wise parent will include a trip to the zoo on a nice summer day, and remember, these animals may just be watching you!! Holy Toledo! what a zoo!!

LOVE Part 2

OK, its time to do the impossible and try to define love, as defined in Part one. "A steady desire for the loved ones ultimate good, as far as it can be obtained"

First of all, Love is a desire to ACT. Love is not motionless, it must be busy searching out the loved ones ultimate good. Secondly, it is a desire to act SACRIFICIALLY.. Love must cost us something. And I really do not mean money either. Love someone,.. ANYONE, and it will cost us time, it will cost us comfort, we must get out of our comfort zone and put our hearts right on the line. Yes it may cost us money as well, and in some cases as in the case of our brave soldiers, Love may cost us our lives. Show me a man who is not willing to die for the one he loves and Ill show you not much of a man.

Love also is a desire to act sacrificially FOR THE BENEFIT OF ANOTHER. Now you may say.."wait a minute..If I do all these things, doesn't it follow that it will be beneficial??" Not really. For instance you may "love" your kids so much you do not want to see them hurt, so as a result, you let them do anything they want. Is that for their benefit?? or maybe you have a loved one who is a recovering addict. Do you give him what he craves because you love him and want to see them happy?? of course not. Sometimes we show love in ways that is not beneficial to others, and some times real love is not met with kindness. we must make sure what we are doing is TRULY beneficial for that person whether they like us for it or not. The old phrase "You'll thank me later" fits here.. and you know?? most often they will!

Finally and perhaps the hardest to do is this point. Love is a desire to act Sacrificially for the benefit of another WHETHER THEY DESERVE IT OR NOT!.. Man is this hard. but sometimes we men know that our loved ones are not acting in a way we would like, so we kind of say.. "forget it. They do not deserve my love at the moment". And we guys can be the same way ourselves. But real love shows itself whether the other person deserves it or not. What do you do when a person we love acts a fool?? do we punt?? give up? or love them all the more. That's the challenge of love.

Men (and women) If you have a love like that, treasure it!! And if you happen to be the one GIVING that kind of love, well my hat is off to you, that's the kind of love we need now.

To love at all is to be vulnerable. Love anything, and your heart will certainly be wrung and possibly be broken. If you want to make sure of keeping it intact, you must give your heart to no one, not even to an animal. Wrap it carefully round with hobbies and little luxuries; avoid all entanglements; lock it up safe in the casket or coffin of your selfishness. But in that casket — safe, dark, motionless, airless — it will change. It will not be broken; it will become unbreakable, impenetrable, irredeemable. .

The Celebration!

13 Days until the celebrations! You say: "What celebrations??" I say :"let me fill you in" My Birthday is October 25th, and what I have been doing for the last 4 or 5 years is taking the whole month and celebrate it. I will start on October 1st and end around November 7th or so.
Ok, so Why then?? well first reason is that I believe that there is enough in this world to keep us depressed and not enough to feel good about. Birthdays should be a great time to celebrate and enjoy! We always seem to have no problem with finding things to get down about, so why not find something to feel good about??

A Birthday is a great way to feel good about yourself. I know the old line.. "Whats to feel good about?? I'm a year older??" Well first of all getting older does not mean getting worse off. Why can't getting older mean getting BETTER?? Yes our hair may turn gray, but shall we wear that gray as a crown of glory, or a fools cap?? I prefer the former.

Or another line.. "Its kind of conceited to celebrate yourself is'nt it?? lets look at it. Is it egotistical to feel happy you were born?? I am sure there are people in your lives who would be much worse off if you were never born. If not for your sake, then for theirs, celebrate it! I celebrate the day I was born, NOT to tell everyone "hey I'm great, get out of my way"....but rather "Hey, I'm great.. FEEL GREAT WITH ME" Big difference.

So thats what I will be doing and posting updates as they happen. I feel good about myself. There was a time when I didnt, and thats one of the reasons for this blog, to share some insights I learned along the tear laden path to where i am now. And one of these is to Celebrate not only my birthday but the birthdays of the select few in my life who I would be so much worse without. Lets put away the depression and learn to celebrate!! You are invited!!

LOVE... Part One.

Ok, so here I am going to try to do the impossible. I started out thinking "How do you define love"? I know that love should come naturally and there are no 5 easy steps to love. Love takes time to grow and develop. I am no believer in love at first sight, because its usually either lust, or shallow love based on how a person looks. to put a definition on it may seem silly, but the best definition I heard comes from C.S. Lewis who always seems to put things in a great perspective.

"Love is not affectionate feeling, but a steady wish for the loved ones ultimate good, as far as it can be obtained"

So how do we obtain someones ultimate good, as far as we can, or are morally allowed to obtain it? Thats coming up in part two so stay tuned!

A Great quote on courage

Check this out. I am putting this in because it is so true, and I do personally have the joy of knowing two people who fit this description. Their deeds will never be known to the multitudes, but they are heros to me because they are living witnesses of this truth.

"Courage takes many forms. There is physical courage, there is moral courage. There is still a higher type of courage - The courage to brave pain, to live with it, to never let others know of it, and to still find joy in life; to wake up in the morning with an enthusiasm for the day ahead"

Heres to you!

COURAGE

Is it possible to be a courageous man and still be afraid? and can being afraid actually help you be courageous?? Well the answer to both questions is YES. a courageous man can be afraid of the consequences of his actions, but he does it anyway if its the right thing to do. The coward, refuses to act because he is afraid, the courageous man acts despite being afraid.

Notice I said IF IT IS THE RIGHT THING TO DO. walking into the Lions cage at the zoo is not courageous, if there is no right reason to do so. It is foolhardy. Even if someone was inside and in danger, it is still a foolhardy man who rushes in when there are other options. being afraid, in these situations KEEPS us from doing foolhardy things.

the Lion in the Wizard of Oz was courageous due to his coming to the aid of Dorothy, despite anting to run on several occasions. the courageous man will act in spite of what may happen to him. A good cause or a good woman is worth any risk.

Being afraid can actually help us be courageous in that it makes us more careful. If we are not afraid of danger and we must act, then we may rush in with no plan, and endanger our lives as well as the ones we love. Fear makes us ever cautious, when we must run into the fray.

For those who dwell in fear, do not lose heart. you are in good company. If the need to act for someones well being at the expense of your own arises, fear will help you meet that task with a plan, and with calm but brave action.

Man microvaves popcorn. Thousands dead!

http://www.physorg.com/news108190731.html

Well heres the laugher of the day, and one more reason not to believe any of the paranoia coming out of the health and safetly business lately. So now its not just the deadly rays emitted by the microvave oven, but now its popcorn fumes. thats right, it appears the latest entry in the things that can kill us is fumes emitted from the buttery flavoring of popcorn once it is heated. I cant believe they actually do studies on this. I wonder whos money they are wasting to find out this stuff.

the good news is that no one on the outside world seems to be taking this seriously, and for those who do, and do not want to give up lucious popcorn, heres an idea. eat it right out of the packet! Dont bother to microwave it at all. eat it as is. light, toasty and crunchy. and live longer too! as for me, pass the popcorn!! and don't spare the butter.

What do real men eat??

No, I am not going to answer that question really. I am just referencing that old book that talked about men and their habits, "Real men dont eat Quiche" Was the title. I defined Character and integrity earlier in this post, and in later posts, I will detail courage and honor. but now I want to introduce everyone to an interesting blog which you may feel is out of place. It has to do with knitting and life. Yes, knitting. And before you give me that old story about knitting not being for men, well bring that up with Rosevelt Grier. You may remember him, the huge defensive lineman for the Los Angeles Rams, part of the Fearsome Foursome of that great Rams defense? well he sewed and knitted, and anyone who didnt call him a man was in trouble.

I myself do not knit, but I know an entertaining blog when I see it. and if there is any man who does knit, well this can be a valuable stopping point, and any woman of course who is confident enough to come to my Lodge here may also find useful information at my dear friends post.

Do real men eat Quiche??? maybe, I dont know... but real men have been known to knit. Remember its not what your hobbies are, but rather what your moral compass is. Enjoy, and feel free to be a knitting man. or woman! just check out my favorite blogs.

Character

I just wanted to share a great definition of character and integrity, and that is what you do, how you act, when NO ONE IS AROUND! Sometimes, when there is applause to be had, or praises to drink in, we all seem to do the good and right thing. but how do we act when there is no one to praise you, and no one to shake your hand. Are we just as honest and honorable??

I remember as a child visiting grandma. You remember grandma, the kindly old lady with the smelly house who gave you lost of candy?? well mine always allowed me to roam through the house, which I did. ( except for the basement where the monsters lived.. really!!) anyway, I remember being alone in the sitting room and seeing an open drawer with money in it. Not a lot, but just grandmas loose change. now I could have easily taken it and gone my merry way, but I left it there.

Now thats a kids story to be true, but where do you think these character, or lack of character traits originate?? when we are kids. Are we men of honor?? Get alone and see how we act.

Its finally happening!

http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/08/10/312031.aspx?Ajax_CallBack=true

Well I d like to start off this blog with my first post. And this is incredible, yet fully predictable. I knew it would come to this eventually. now overweight people are the latest witches to be hunted by the Politically correct crowd. First smoking, now obesity. Workers can now be fined for being overweight?? Give me a (nother) break!

First of all it looks like they are using the Body Fat index, which according to that, people like Tom Cruise and Arnold would be considered "obese" secondly and most importantly who should care if someone smokes or goes to BK 3 times a day?? I mean.. is it ANYONES business?? I do not smoke, nor can I be considered obese, but my non smoking and healthy lifestyle is my business. If I choose to smoke or gorge myself, should my place of business (or anyone else for that matter) care??

I know the argument that smokers and obese people drive up health care costs. how do you figure?? they are the ones that usually die younger, and thus do not drain the health care system as long as people who may live longer.

Plus, what about unhappy people?? stress and unhappiness leads to all sorts of health problems. Are we now to fine unhappy people?? I would not be surprised if it is coming.