tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39905565526542619022024-03-14T00:22:28.184-05:00OutwardsOutward expressions of inward impressionsPatty Edwardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12099546603575325446noreply@blogger.comBlogger163125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3990556552654261902.post-67248089848186963412015-01-21T11:04:00.002-05:002015-01-21T11:04:26.744-05:00I've moved...<span style="font-size: large;">I have set up a new blog effective January 20, 2015.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I hope you will join me there...</span><br />
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<a href="http://pattyedwards.com/"><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">pattyedwards.com</span></a>Patty Edwardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12099546603575325446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3990556552654261902.post-55508528737779274392010-03-02T13:58:00.000-05:002010-03-02T13:58:04.796-05:00Read the Fine PrintI am one of those people who actually READS the instruction manuals that come with new appliances, electronics, and cars. I always figure that there will be some tidbit of information which I'll pick up about the new purchase, that I wouldn't have otherwise known. I've been ridiculed for this many times ;-D<br />
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Similarly, I also read the "<i>Terms and Conditions</i>" before signing up for things like contests, free offers, etc.... especially on the Internet. More than once, it's saved me from signing up for a "free product" that was going to incur an automatic ongoing billing to my credit card unless I cancelled it -- by phone. You've got to realize that it's verrrrrrry difficult (if not impossible) to get someone on the phone to cancel, and if you do, you will be bombarded by sales pitches and inexhaustible junk mail. If you submit your phone number, that also permits that company or their 'affiliates' to bypass the Do Not Call list, because you've invited them to call you.<br />
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So, this morning I was reading these '<i>terms and conditions</i>' for a contest I was invited to enter -- just for the heck of it (I'd already decided the prize wasn't worth it to me to give them my phone number or birth date).<br />
In the fine print, I read that once the 'potential winner' is selected, they have to fill out a notarized eligibility form. Not so shocking. BUT the notice said...<br />
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<i>"If the potential winner is a Canadian resident, he or she will be required to correctly answer, <b>without assistance of any kind,</b> a mathematical skill-testing question administered by telephone or email."</i><br />
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Am I imagining this, or are they casting dispersions on Canadian basic math skills??<br />
There must be some reason for this, but I can't think what it would be. If I were Canadian, I'd pass on this contest <b>out of principle</b>.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXmtqv8wam7kbnJd0zhEhF51L21AxDOPBQich4giQxfsthfrK9dkRzuObKnU4Yd3FwcxlhQjulrKuptlY-V00VS_Gb5V36qU0XeXhm7srEXLix4es7b8m_5IGZb6QjMD3cKlJtKbjcMTM/s1600-h/_47397108_animals_getty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXmtqv8wam7kbnJd0zhEhF51L21AxDOPBQich4giQxfsthfrK9dkRzuObKnU4Yd3FwcxlhQjulrKuptlY-V00VS_Gb5V36qU0XeXhm7srEXLix4es7b8m_5IGZb6QjMD3cKlJtKbjcMTM/s320/_47397108_animals_getty.jpg" /></a></div>Many people are also poking fun at the Closing Ceremonies of the Olympics... the Russians displayed their cultural strengths (dance, music, art, architecture) in their promo for the next Winter Olympics, while Canada flaunted giant blow-up beavers and moose (is the plural for moose -- mooses??? moosi??). <br />
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I have to admit that<b> I personally liked Canada's choice for the closing fête</b>! It was different, and I thought it was <b>fun and pleasant</b> and I probably would've gone that route, too, if I were on their planning committee.<br />
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<b>I never actually realized the animosity and competitive spirit between Canada and the U.S.</b> Our family has always enjoyed our trips to Canada. But I think this contest is <b>going a little bit too far </b>with the math thing...Patty Edwardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12099546603575325446noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3990556552654261902.post-24397016442139301912009-12-21T13:34:00.000-05:002009-12-21T13:34:29.485-05:00We Three KingsWhen I was a little girl, I wondered where in the world <b><i>Orientarr</i></b> was. I imagined that it was in Asia somewhere, far away. All I really knew about it was that three kings who visited the young Jesus were from there. <b>;-D</b><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvwwSsa28cQVvGa8ChfeDqYgXnT2z5ZHoWgUPhdpxKIfOgLp86pktC6-CmY9aYFdJkj8SxhoqPHyN-1yaVEH1JW0Nw3J8IU5p8uUJRFa7cnoSeP6pnNL3sVVKmdIsiH2rtgZ1CgURbys8/s1600-h/three_kings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvwwSsa28cQVvGa8ChfeDqYgXnT2z5ZHoWgUPhdpxKIfOgLp86pktC6-CmY9aYFdJkj8SxhoqPHyN-1yaVEH1JW0Nw3J8IU5p8uUJRFa7cnoSeP6pnNL3sVVKmdIsiH2rtgZ1CgURbys8/s320/three_kings.jpg" /></a><br />
I was always fascinated by the story of the three kings, and could tell you that they brought gifts to Jesus of <b>gold, frankincense, and myrrh</b>. I knew what gold was. I recently learned a little about frankincense, and myrrh, and the significance makes a little more sense to me now.<br />
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The magi, in search of a <b>king</b>, certainly would have brought Him expensive gifts to pay homage. That explains the <b>gold</b>. It was even more valuable and precious then than it is now. It surely would have been helpful to finance the trip that Jesus, Joseph, and Mary would soon make to Egypt. It was likely a gift they would have been very pleased with. It truly was a <b>king</b>ly kind of gift.<br />
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<b>Frankincense</b> was a costly liquid, used by the Hebrew priests in their sacrifices. When burned it gives off a sweet aroma. It was used in the Thank Offerings and the sweet smell was present as the people and priests gave<b> thanks and praise to God</b>. Biblically we're told the sweet smell of burning incense reached the Throne Room of God and signified the <b>prayers of His people rising to Him</b>. It's been shown that the sense of smell is the primary sense for recollecting memories -- an aroma is more likely to make us remember something than a sight, sound, touch or taste. Today, some promising research is even being done with frankincense as a treatment for some forms of cancer and debilitating diseases. So, as the frankincense symbolically represented a pleasing sacrifice to God, the prayers of the people ever before Him, and a calming balm, the frankincense was a <b>priest</b>ly kind of gift.<br />
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<b>Myrrh</b> was commonly used back then for embalming the dead. Not necessarily a baby shower gift most moms would delight over, I think. Taken internally, it was used as a pain reliever, which Jesus refused when He hung on the cross. It was most likely produced in the town of Smyrna, the location of the church mentioned in the final book of the Bible (Rev. 2:8) as the people who would suffer for their faith, but receive the Crown of Life. While it would have had a monetary value, it's primary significance here was the implication that this child would give His Life to preserve ours. The myrrh was a <b>savior</b> kind of gift.<br />
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We can't really know why these gifts were chosen by the magi, or if they had knowledge of the Old Testament prophecies of the Messiah, but they probably did, being learned 'wise' men. <br />
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Interestingly, I've read a commentary on the book of Isaiah that points out in the description of the Returning Savior (Second Coming) in chapter 60, that the gifts brought on camels from Sheba (a.k.a., the Orient) are 'gold and frankincense'. No myrrh is brought, because death and pain have been defeated.<br />
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So this Christmas, as the three kings did long ago, we can give Him gifts, too. We can offer Him our thanks and praise; we can give of our wealth to His purposes, and we can accept the preservation of His Life as our Savior.<br />
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Have a Most Merry Christmas.Patty Edwardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12099546603575325446noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3990556552654261902.post-43041440017106306782009-11-19T08:36:00.013-05:002009-11-20T12:46:07.610-05:00They're Cheering in Flushing NYHaving not blogged in a while, it seems appropriate that I would take this opportunity to post on such a <span style="font-weight: bold;">magnimous </span>and <span style="font-weight: bold;">special day</span>. Yes, it's our lovely daughter's birthday, but that's not to what I refer. It's also the anniversary of the Gettysburg Address, but that's not the impetus for this post either.<br />
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Who among us hasn't at some time or other, with mild expletives under our breath, had to use the simple little invention called 'the plunger' to unclog a <span style="font-weight: bold;">clogged</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;">toilet</span>. I know I have. And yet, where would we be without the object of indoor plumbing? So, in case there's a few out there who didn't know it, or appreciate it, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Nov. 19th</span> is <span style="font-weight: bold;">World Toilet Day</span>.<br />
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My daughter pointed out this dubious honor of sharing her special day with her toilet, so I did a little reading up on it. The day, of course, has more merit than just giving your commode a little hug... it's to <span style="font-weight: bold;">draw awareness to the 2.5 billion people who live without proper sanitation</span>. And that is a noble reason. And so that got me blogging today.<br />
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A little bit toilet training never hurt anyone, so ponder this...<br />
<ul><li>Archeological remains from 3000 BC Scotland reveal stone huts, <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1iFOJzzvHtUl7wgWFxdx32nMtAWi41I71VaXi0SgyTmoZ5PxgsG6hTBLIr-Kk9Um87BkJnWF5GGBQh5Ft9TUNrUwxuX01AJJ9b6FFJZxn0f9GNk7yKguRAHwAvN2IOFgEy_tkrW02nfo/s1600/Fish+Tank.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5406198167685839362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1iFOJzzvHtUl7wgWFxdx32nMtAWi41I71VaXi0SgyTmoZ5PxgsG6hTBLIr-Kk9Um87BkJnWF5GGBQh5Ft9TUNrUwxuX01AJJ9b6FFJZxn0f9GNk7yKguRAHwAvN2IOFgEy_tkrW02nfo/s200/Fish+Tank.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 200px; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; width: 158px;" /></a>with drains protruding from the walls, likely their water closets. The early roots of potty training no doubt began here.<br />
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<li>Ancient Rome, famous for it's gigantic communal bathhouses, also had <span style="font-weight: bold;">gigantic communal outhouses</span>, with long bench seats. However, they only used these on 'special' occasions and usually just threw their, um... waste products... into the streets.</li>
<li>The medieval '<span style="font-weight: bold;">garderobe</span>' was a little room in one's castle with a system of trenches that took their sewage out to the mote, as an added deterrent to trespassers.</li>
<li>Soon after, a <span style="font-weight: bold;">flusher</span> was devised with a pull handle and valve system to send water through the <span style="font-weight: bold;">ceramic bowl</span>.</li>
<li> The ingenious 'S Pipe' was introduced in the 18th century, to keep 'foul odors' at bay (yay!)<br />
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<li>And, last but not least, in the late 1800's, <span style="font-weight: bold;">toilet showrooms</span> came into the marketplace, first accredited to plumber, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Thomas Crapper</span>. No kidding. He didn't <span style="font-weight: bold;">invent</span> the flushing wonder, but made it available to more people by marketing it in his storefront.</li>
</ul>OK, that's enough in honor of modern plumbing. It was Freud, I think, that said fear of deep water stems from childhood terror of toilet training. I think it really comes from a clogged toilet!<br />
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Yep.Patty Edwardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12099546603575325446noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3990556552654261902.post-83985730614370967702009-10-05T17:19:00.005-05:002009-10-05T17:36:14.343-05:00Here We Go!!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLjNepZXEihEm_EBI4_nQ_B4osqHdS6mg1fKjLveUsGzIOY2qVqKxPUV3POioXlohABdqlq-LRCaiaEXuvdJbBZc6y4XAjvCD1LwsJfxJjesS5JzfuC5gLapyuQOHyZIB7C7GQR-1uSv4/s1600-h/IMG_0211.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLjNepZXEihEm_EBI4_nQ_B4osqHdS6mg1fKjLveUsGzIOY2qVqKxPUV3POioXlohABdqlq-LRCaiaEXuvdJbBZc6y4XAjvCD1LwsJfxJjesS5JzfuC5gLapyuQOHyZIB7C7GQR-1uSv4/s320/IMG_0211.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389247635577668818" border="0" /></a>I was verrry sleeeeeepy this morning when it was time to get up... but it was <span style="font-weight: bold;">well worth it</span>! We got to bed very late last night, ... well, early this morning... because we were at the Steeler game last night, and stayed to the exciting finish!<br /><br />Bruce and I were the delighted beneficiaries of our daughter and son-in-law, who drove here from D.C. and treated us to the football game!! I've never been to Heinz field and I was so excited to be a part of the electric atmosphere of thousands of people, all dressed in black and gold, anticipating an evening of great football. We weren't disappointed! It was a great game, we had wonderful seats, and, the Steelers won!<br /><br />I was especially thrilled to spend the time with Ash & Nate, who are die-hard fans, and who <span style="font-weight: bold;">blessed us by taking us along!</span> We joined some other friends at a tail-gate before the game, and then spent about an hour roaming the Great Hall and taking in all of the Steeler memorabilia.<br /><br />Because it was an 8:20 PM kick-off, we didn't get home till well after midnight (and we all had to work today ;-/), but <span style="font-weight: bold;">loved every minute of it</span>!Patty Edwardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12099546603575325446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3990556552654261902.post-31970240177687663892009-09-22T12:53:00.007-05:002009-09-22T13:22:18.327-05:00Psalty's Birthday Surprise<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivwCsKxSbA5-yldi8WbWDDup9OpO-PG7xi0_g4w1oUsWawaIkaPXnpQTty51nIwDrMve5Y1FoSrZ5wae79ERXl-Cfab1kJzdylr9E8-SLgX89fgx9PNHOtg-ISjGpl2QnEbY1mqKYH6-k/s1600-h/Brad+as+Psalty.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivwCsKxSbA5-yldi8WbWDDup9OpO-PG7xi0_g4w1oUsWawaIkaPXnpQTty51nIwDrMve5Y1FoSrZ5wae79ERXl-Cfab1kJzdylr9E8-SLgX89fgx9PNHOtg-ISjGpl2QnEbY1mqKYH6-k/s320/Brad+as+Psalty.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384356804306768274" border="0" /></a>I KNOW I can't be old enough to have a 30 year old child... OK, so I am, and I do... it's not about me...<br /><br />We were thrilled to be able to attend the birthday party <a href="http://bradleach.typepad.com/bleachblog/">Brad</a> had for Leah on Sunday to celebrate her 30 years. Brad went to <span style="font-weight: bold;">great lengths</span> to delight Leah -- He knows she l<span style="font-weight: bold;">oves surprises</span>, and so he arranged to have a number of surprise guests arrive (us, included). Not the least of which was Psalty, the Singing Song Book, which was a flash from her past.<br /><br />Now the mommy of an infant, Leah regularly sings songs from her childhood to her baby girl, many from the <a href="http://psaltyskidsstore.stores.yahoo.net/pasltycds.html">Kids Praise</a> series she loved. So, Brad bought her a CD of one of her long, lost favorites, AND <span style="font-weight: bold;">he dressed up as Psalt</span>y and made a fun... and funny... guest appearance! 'Psalty' worked the crowd, read Leah a poignant and humorous 'futuristic' letter from her daughter, and he had Ashley & Nate join us via video.<br /><br />Psalty's arrival was preceded by a Psalty sing-a-long led by Samantha, and surprisingly enough, all the adults present whole-heartedly joined in the singing (even the hand-motions).Patty Edwardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12099546603575325446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3990556552654261902.post-6909238623060682872009-08-10T16:39:00.020-05:002009-08-11T11:12:30.401-05:00Our American IdolOur family has been a big fan of Disney World for a long time... Br<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwcFIGee-anaRuuOk4VE9rurLHbiWIOI1HILKdL4rQ9Fn_xJwMAnyUk1QSaSDutzIOuO_VrcD0_2WB78FZ3jKBa8vl1udgaIz-8elujLAm3SomNZKJt2zSrO88QWUWSfMIHHR-sLCFKWs/s1600-h/IMG_0083.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwcFIGee-anaRuuOk4VE9rurLHbiWIOI1HILKdL4rQ9Fn_xJwMAnyUk1QSaSDutzIOuO_VrcD0_2WB78FZ3jKBa8vl1udgaIz-8elujLAm3SomNZKJt2zSrO88QWUWSfMIHHR-sLCFKWs/s200/IMG_0083.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368481324123333202" border="0" /></a>uce & I went there for our honeymoon many years ago, and have returned many times over the years with our girls. The live shows at all 4 theme parks have always been high on our list of favorites because of the top quality Disney always aspires to in their productions.<br /><br />Our talented and musically gifted daughters would often day-dream about performing on those Disney stages, being a part of a top-notch musical production. And, this weekend, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Samantha actually did! </span><br /><br />Disney's Hollywood Studio theme park has a new stellar <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4UB-gnDOk4Y8BSHRDQBLcZ9fXWGe0jh5_GY4U1JzYs51LqbYQZD4tmGBPD0NoKYQTrk2eocoqzWkI7CdWNFgpsYpKqv0RD-IAlSRuqahWmMhV06Zdf-EzZCc_CGeWpBOYSCtvgGac5As/s1600-h/IMG_0100.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 286px; height: 278px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4UB-gnDOk4Y8BSHRDQBLcZ9fXWGe0jh5_GY4U1JzYs51LqbYQZD4tmGBPD0NoKYQTrk2eocoqzWkI7CdWNFgpsYpKqv0RD-IAlSRuqahWmMhV06Zdf-EzZCc_CGeWpBOYSCtvgGac5As/s320/IMG_0100.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368488528804574018" border="0" /></a>attraction, the<span style="font-style: italic;"> American Idol Experience</span>. In keeping with their commitment to quality, Disney incorporates fun with fantastic, and re-creates the<span style="font-style: italic;"> </span><span style="font-style: italic;">American Idol</span> TV show, complete with a series of auditions and studio competitions, and a grand finale show. Three judges from the music industry critique the performers, and the audience votes for their <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">American I</span><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">dol</span>.<br /><br />Samantha was among about one hundred+ people who auditioned at the Disney Hollywood Studio park early on Saturday morning, and was cast to perform in an afternoon show. Backstage, they did her hair and make-up, and gave her 10 minutes with a professional vocal coach.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheKwVOgZpVkq9hguIp7ecnVZLxVwc22-JRmyUC4JUbd2cxmy1KyLbz2oZVSBeFuj3U1kIliZamDjVr-DLMgXKvqKc1p6aQsOnaAV_a0TcxSM-Ly96hUQNRjnxsk9tStDi32-Oijy_ywfo/s1600-h/IMG_0110.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 218px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheKwVOgZpVkq9hguIp7ecnVZLxVwc22-JRmyUC4JUbd2cxmy1KyLbz2oZVSBeFuj3U1kIliZamDjVr-DLMgXKvqKc1p6aQsOnaAV_a0TcxSM-Ly96hUQNRjnxsk9tStDi32-Oijy_ywfo/s320/IMG_0110.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368486064959723058" border="0" /></a><br />She performed the song <span style="font-style: italic;">Reflection</span>, and was chosen by the audience as the winner of that round, and went on to perform in the finale. I know that I'm her mom, but I gotta tell you that she was awesome! And, I wasn't the only one to say so... the judges gave her raving accolades, -- even the one who had the role of sarcastic 'Simon'.<br /><br />All of this was incredibly fun and soul-stirring, and was topped off Saturday evening at the Grand Finale (where all the winners performed) with <span style="font-weight: bold;">Sam winning the whole shebang! </span> Every performer was talented and wonderful, and the<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglHX9Pxs7bFZwA_Q2TSQp5EkiQxcBJZb5FIrSpE7UIPCoqKQTyLaIrzBeeOBPlJU4KYfMXEiQwDGhzZ2DAvMAT6-7Cdilgl187DdHwdfAsy8fez0mm45-WPrUIKvL8IIAqPxbh6rRhnro/s1600-h/IMG_0089.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 161px; height: 221px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglHX9Pxs7bFZwA_Q2TSQp5EkiQxcBJZb5FIrSpE7UIPCoqKQTyLaIrzBeeOBPlJU4KYfMXEiQwDGhzZ2DAvMAT6-7Cdilgl187DdHwdfAsy8fez0mm45-WPrUIKvL8IIAqPxbh6rRhnro/s320/IMG_0089.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368489587065221570" border="0" /></a> studio audience of a thousand people plus a group watching remotely outside the theatre created an electrified atmosphere!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Samantha got a standing ovation</span>, and a 'golden ticket' for an audition for next season's <span style="font-style: italic;">American Idol</span> TV show. It was lots of fun to watch 'fans' come up to her after her shows, asking for her autograph, calling out encouragement and congratulations (not just Bruce & me, either!), mothers asking her to pose with their <span style="font-style: italic;">incredibly cute</span> babies...<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7knU0qyP20JG669hU0LtotvABZKABmU4Lt1qBZrr33iPQBp093cpg-aPkjCv4JdTETQMgs6A7lEGcTmAcEYj2HzVK8UVhVim-YNnRC_SrgLyASDG4A9ys_hwBdGMhoqSxi2ecR8Zq66Y/s1600-h/IMG_0112.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 254px; height: 297px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7knU0qyP20JG669hU0LtotvABZKABmU4Lt1qBZrr33iPQBp093cpg-aPkjCv4JdTETQMgs6A7lEGcTmAcEYj2HzVK8UVhVim-YNnRC_SrgLyASDG4A9ys_hwBdGMhoqSxi2ecR8Zq66Y/s320/IMG_0112.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368486661843282642" border="0" /></a><br />We were allowed to take pictures, but not videos, due to copyrights, etc. Some of the pictures I've posted here, but if you want to hear her sing, ... maybe that 'golden ticket' will land her a spot on the TV version of the American Idol experience!Patty Edwardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12099546603575325446noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3990556552654261902.post-23683068340237863682009-06-23T21:31:00.011-05:002009-06-23T21:50:15.856-05:00The Next ChapterWow! Words can hardly express the experience of being a part of a precious grandchild's birth!<div>And so the next chapter of the adventure begins.<br /><br />We are so blessed be grandparents, and so proud and in awe of our daughter and son-in-law, watching them 'labor' together to bring Gabriella Faith into our world. She was born at 12:21 AM and is more darling than I can adequately describe.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJXHWAFks15MMHFsnEuhyfHMBHs0Q0FP-jzNS2WccrdxmkaRxzd6IPM1SFqn7HN_J3QI8Xlh2OuOKJObN8rY8uNZQNHlaOflD8bPlgkEu4Vm8yTfTWzhxqIYRf0YvviZUtvTouUyuaRUg/s1600-h/DSCN0438.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJXHWAFks15MMHFsnEuhyfHMBHs0Q0FP-jzNS2WccrdxmkaRxzd6IPM1SFqn7HN_J3QI8Xlh2OuOKJObN8rY8uNZQNHlaOflD8bPlgkEu4Vm8yTfTWzhxqIYRf0YvviZUtvTouUyuaRUg/s200/DSCN0438.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5350714850164263522" border="0" /></a><br />A picture say a thousand words, so here are a couple....<br /><br />18 Months ago, Bruce placed his daughter into Brads arms. This night, Brad placed his daughter into Bruce's...<br /><br /><br />...Aunt Sam<br /><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijusISufOmrctks6g4BkUgDcO2AyMtAaMCZ2hzmVjuS9MDq5_ZyYMlAfzXqzKOpwhfFTuQT08CV6ZL41rPedbn3lmLCnuhoLZ3D8IdcIX6hyphenhyphenLZrUmXL_8cKvES9zMq3VIQMJyKihbKk9U/s200/DSCN0445.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5350719486300773282" /><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQJ7_a9RfMU3aNkQzHYXhikL1RVkBL-HJnN1wFIPpofkBXSdgEhp_KB-YAY-6EMrZc9Pq8yqwzatDJpJPTyoeES9vo2_QTDx3A5HlJhJwGdZBViyOwu0RopUgQlraRtoYrbP-ye8nP_-4/s200/DSCN0448.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5350719844776069170" /></div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div> Aunt Ashley & Uncle Nate...<br /><br /><br /><br /></div></div>Patty Edwardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12099546603575325446noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3990556552654261902.post-24051809910409801492009-06-19T09:37:00.011-05:002009-06-19T11:51:40.753-05:00We're ExpectingI am waxing philosophical today.<br /><br />I sat down at my computer this morning to do some work, and an Outlook "reminder" dialog popped up. It said, "Baby Day!".<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyi_d81kSvnbAHUQhYLWR6vxa6xO1v1SFXrK8Y4pD9Bzhnn5u1vH8kra5evAH-ilNvMKCtwjYGyTJPpnmR1QpFKEvfwsT5Tnm88sK9hPvCxUxnhDcs5KA9NuybEyWrXOyt2JGuL6YpE4I/s1600-h/Reminder.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 206px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyi_d81kSvnbAHUQhYLWR6vxa6xO1v1SFXrK8Y4pD9Bzhnn5u1vH8kra5evAH-ilNvMKCtwjYGyTJPpnmR1QpFKEvfwsT5Tnm88sK9hPvCxUxnhDcs5KA9NuybEyWrXOyt2JGuL6YpE4I/s320/Reminder.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5349080258699453266" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I put that in my Outlook calendar way back in the fall when Leah first told us that they were going to have a baby, and June 19th was the projected 'due date'. After the first sonogram, it was 'revised' to June 20th. But I never changed my Outlook calendar. Mainly because baby 'due dates' are really just a projected estimate of when the baby will pop out, and life will change for all of us, and 'normal' becomes different.<br /><br />Here's where the philosophical part comes in... we (Bruce, Me, Ashley & Nate) have been <span style="font-weight: bold;">semi-preparing</span> for the <span style="font-weight: bold;">trek </span>to Michigan from our respective homes, hours away from the blessed event. Ashley's had a bag packed for 2 weeks now. Samantha, and Brad's mom and dad have all worked their schedules to be 'near by' and flexible. We've notified our co-workers and clients that we'll be dashing off to Michigan for the baby's birth, but <span style="font-weight: bold;">don't exactly know when</span> that is, but ... just want to give a ... 'heads up'. We don't have the car loaded, but we've been preparing, and we <span style="font-weight: bold;">can be ready</span> to leave in just a few minutes. Brad has been texting us <span style="font-weight: bold;">everyday</span> for the past week with little teasers, implying at first that the baby's coming, and then switching around to something else.<br /><br />We know that God already has Gabriella's birthday written in His plan, and the <span style="font-weight: bold;">timing will be perfect</span>.<br /><br />I couldn't help relate all of this excited anticipation to life, in general. I wish I could live this way all of the time, fixed on knowing that <span style="font-weight: bold;">God's timing</span> is always perfect, and that He is Good, <span style="font-weight: bold;">all the time</span>. Instead of getting caught up in my day-to-day details, my problems and trials, or my disappointments, I need to do more... <span style="font-weight: bold;">expecting</span>. More hopeful anticipating of what <span style="font-weight: bold;">God is birthing</span> in my life. More joyful awaiting for what He's got up His sleeve for me.<br /><br />I know in my head that God's Plan is not stagnant. I know that He weaves the details of each moment into a tale of adventure. And yet, sometimes, ... most of the time... my thoughts and emotions get swallowed up in what's in front of me.<br /><br />But this mindset of living the past few weeks in anticipation, ...<span style="font-weight: bold;">getting ready</span> to travel to Michigan to be on the scene, to meet our grandchild, knowing 'something's' coming, but not knowing <span style="font-weight: bold;">when</span> exactly... always having in the back of my mind the thought that today could be 'the day', ... it's put me in the<span style="font-weight: bold;"> mode of</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;">expectation</span>.<br /><br />And I like that! I like living the way I believe God wants us to live... expecting Him to actively orchestrate and surprise me... expecting good decrees from the Throne Room, and expecting the King's favor. I recognize there is a good destination, but I want to more puposefully <span style="font-weight: bold;">expect</span> that the journey can be thrilling, under the watchful eyes and mighty arm of a loving Father.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 0); font-weight: bold;">Isaiah 43:19, 48:3</span><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 51, 0);"> <span style="font-style: italic;"> </span>"See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland. ...then suddenly I acted, and they came to pass</span>." <br /><br /><table style="width: 336px; height: 55px;" class="the_content" cellspacing="5"><tbody><tr><td><br /></td></tr><tr><td valign="top"><br /></td><td><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>Patty Edwardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12099546603575325446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3990556552654261902.post-88722151920995495262009-06-05T12:00:00.001-05:002009-06-19T12:39:50.358-05:00He Finally Came, And We Weren't ReadyAs summer gets into full swing, I usually plop myself in my front yard and plant some pretty flowers. As I was weeding, the other day, I remembered something that happened last year, upon the occasion of my planting ritual.<br /><br />Our drive is well off the main road, with only two houses on it, and so it's rare that people randomly drive up to the top of our hill. Bruce and I were both in the yard, doing some planting and mulching. And then, we heard it... at first it was distant, and then we realized it was coming up our driveway! We could hear the tinkling bell song, <span style="font-style: italic;">You Are My Sunshine</span>, playing over and over, getting progressively louder.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">It was the Ice Cream Man!!</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://media.artdiamondblog.com/images2/GoodHumorIceCreamTruck-thumb-468x324.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 250px; height: 172px;" src="http://media.artdiamondblog.com/images2/GoodHumorIceCreamTruck-thumb-468x324.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">For 25 years we'd been waiting for him</span>. When the kids were little, they'd hear the song, and jump and squeal ... <span style="font-style: italic;">"It's the Ice Cream Man"</span>. They'd be very excited, and hopeful, but he never came up our drive. And by the time we'd grab our quarters and try to run down to the road to catch him and buy the frozen delights, he'd be gone. So the tinkling song became an empty hope.<br /><br />But this day, a brave and curious man drove up our long driveway. When he saw it was just us, and we just stood there staring at him, and he realized that he'd driven up a driveway, he got very uncomfortable, and tried to sneak away.<br /><br />BUT, after 25 years of waiting we couldn't allow that.<br />HOWEVER, we weren't ready! We didn't have any money on us to buy anything, and just sort of stood there gaping, thinking, <span style="font-style: italic;">'He finally came, and we weren't ready!'</span><br /><br />So, we didn't get any ice cream that day. But Bruce did stop the guy and talked to him and told him we'd been waiting 25 years for that moment. He told the fella we couldn't buy anything from him, but asked if he could pray for him about anything<span style="font-style: italic;"></span>. <span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 0);">;~D</span><br /><br />The guy speedily drove away. Hasn't been back since.Patty Edwardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12099546603575325446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3990556552654261902.post-54955450247900461022009-04-07T08:08:00.017-05:002009-04-07T09:47:43.197-05:00I Just Want to TestifyI went to Michigan this past weekend to visit our kids there, but also to hear our daughter, Leah, preach the Sunday morning message at <a href="http://www.churchoftheking.net/">Church of the King</a>. More on that later...<br /><br />Saturday night, we watched the NCAA semi-final game <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bleacherreport.com/images_root/image_pictures/0278/7533/10431_feature.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 269px; height: 183px;" src="http://bleacherreport.com/images_root/image_pictures/0278/7533/10431_feature.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>between Michigan State and UConn. It was a good game, especially because the 'home' team (i.e., Brad & Leah's 'home') won. In the last minute of the game, Michigan State sunk a free throw to put them up by 7 points with about 45 seconds left on the clock. Brad excitedly said, '<span style="font-style: italic;">that's the game</span>'! But me, ever the '<span style="font-weight: bold;">cautious</span>' one, said '<span style="font-style: italic;">there's still a lot of time left</span>'... I didn't want to be too optimistic, and then disappointed, if the tide suddenly turned and the Spartans lost -- <span style="font-weight: bold;">remembering</span> times this has indeed happened in these kind of high-adrenaline games. <br /><br />Brad, ever the '<span style="font-weight: bold;">wise</span>' one, tolerated my comment, but smiled, fully confident of the outcome even then.<br /><br />I bring this up because this morning, my husband (also very wise) encouraged me to read a chapter in a book he's been reading, <span style="font-style: italic;">Strengthen Yourself In The Lord</span>, by Bill Johnson. The chapter is titled <span style="font-style: italic;">Keeping the Testimony -- Testimonies of God connect generations to His promises</span>. Johnson reminds us that<br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 0);"></span><blockquote style="color: rgb(51, 0, 0);"> "The testimonies of God are the tools that equip us to walk in our purpose to demonstrate what He is like through the miraculous... The Hebrew root word for "testimony" means "do again." Every record of what God has done in generations past is a promise of what He will do again in our lives, because He is the same yesterday, today and forever, and He is no respecter of persons (Heb. 13:8)." </blockquote>That's why God instructs His people to build <span style="font-style: italic;">altars of <span style="font-weight: bold;">remembrance</span></span>, to set our hope in God by <span style="font-weight: bold;">remembering</span> what He has already done in our lives to deliver, help, save, encourage, and heal us. And to know He can/will <span style="font-style: italic;">do it again</span>. When the people didn't remember God's Words and His Works, they lost their battle, even though they were armed and dangerous. (Ps. 78: 9-11)<br /><br />This is all very significant to me because I am in a 'place' right now where I need to remind myself of God's character, His nature and His promises. My mind is too prone to focus on disappointments and fears, and that drags me down. So today, I purpose to do better, and to go into my battles armed with the testimonies of God's goodness, mercy and kindness to me and my family.<br /><br />Which brings me to my final testimony... This weekend, I watched our daughter, Leah, preach. She delivered a <a href="http://www.churchoftheking.net/sermon/remember-a-tale-of-two-gardens/">word of Truth and power</a>, and I was so proud, yet so humbled. In the same service, I listened to our daughter, Samantha, sing words of Truth and power, and her singing gave me chills up and down my spine. And later that day, I spoke with our daughter, Ashley, who was fulfilling a mission of global importance, and I was yet again proud, and humbled. <br /><br />Proud that they are our kids... and humbled by <span style="font-weight: bold;">remembering</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">witnessing</span> the fruit of what God has fashioned. They are <span style="font-weight: bold;">His Testimonies.</span><br /><br />Leah's message completed the sermon series, <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Remember</span>, at Church of the King. They are all well worth a listen <a href="http://www.churchoftheking.net/mediafiles/sermons.xml">here</a>, and they are testimonies well worth remembering.Patty Edwardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12099546603575325446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3990556552654261902.post-35955776892425610232009-03-19T14:33:00.009-05:002009-03-22T09:37:43.272-05:00RootsA few weekends ago, Bruce and I visited <a href="http://www.churchoftheking.net/">Church of the King</a> in Berkley, MI, and got to experience a service in their new venue at the Southfield-Lathrop High School. It was a dynamic service and I was favorably impressed with the way the church members totally transform the school lobby and auditorium into a professional and contemporary area to gather and worship. And,... in the lobby, ...there is a wall of windows, with about 5 tall <span style="font-weight: bold;">beautiful flowering hibiscus</span> plants.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiesV8o3A0DzRKz7zgqoDapkEp0x-xGdCuXSxkv3ULUrwV10TdsAqaO-Mug35IWUnRIkGD1miCdH7pMlswI39DkLT3y5KGRgTd7EBnkdYXR8ygZBADS4SjxjQn73S5d8416KqD9gtKozLo/s1600-h/winterhibiscus.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 208px; height: 259px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiesV8o3A0DzRKz7zgqoDapkEp0x-xGdCuXSxkv3ULUrwV10TdsAqaO-Mug35IWUnRIkGD1miCdH7pMlswI39DkLT3y5KGRgTd7EBnkdYXR8ygZBADS4SjxjQn73S5d8416KqD9gtKozLo/s320/winterhibiscus.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5315006185872216114" border="0" /></a><br />These hibiscus plants reminded me of the one Samantha gave me last Spring for Mother's Day... because the hibiscus is <span style="font-weight: bold;">one of my favorites</span>!! My plant is actually three plants, about 6 feet tall, with stems woven together, and is intended to be a house plant. When Samantha first gave it to me, it was full of gorgeous blooms!<br /><br />I love my hibiscus, and because I'm not typically successful growing things, I did a google search to learn how to care for her (...<span style="font-style: italic;">yes, she is now affectionately known to me as Cynthia</span> :-D ). One of the articles I read said it was important to replant her in a pot that would be about 30% larger than the one she came in, before she outgrew it, so she would have room to grow. Otherwise, she would become <span style="font-weight: bold;">rootbound</span>.<br /><br />So what's rootbound? <span style="font-weight: bold;">Rootbound is when there is no effective space for new roots to occupy. </span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span>One of the first symptoms of being rootbound is, in fact, that<span style="font-weight: bold;"> plant growth slows despite favorable environmental conditions</span> (light, water, fertilizer, etc)."<br /><br />I sure wanted Cynthia to be healthy, and to grow, so I hustled off to Home Depot, and bought her a big new pot.<br /><br />The article warned, however, that hibiscuses are very sensitive, and that this change would initially cause some<span style="font-weight: bold;"> trauma</span> to Cynthia, ...and did it ever! Leaves started turning brown and dropping off dramatically, and some of the new little buds never opened, but also fell off.<br /><br />I was concerned.<br /><br />For months, my beloved plant went downhill. She made a half-hearted effort to bloom again, but only 3 flowers made it to fruition. Not only was she not 'growing', I feared she was dying. She was looking pretty feeble, in spite of my attempt to perk her up with string of twinkle lights.<br />But I have continued to water, feed, and nuture her (and even, um, talk to her). In spite of my lack of horticultural prowess, she's been hanging in there.<br /><br />And this week, I <span style="font-weight: bold;">finally see new growth appearing</span> on the naked branches, and her falling leaves have drastically subsided. So I am hopeful that she's turned the corner, and is heading back to her happy place.<br /><br />The hibiscus article I read said, "At times we have been amazed to see the difference in our flowers once the plants had <span style="font-weight: bold;">room to grow larger root systems</span> to provide the hibiscus with all the water and nutrients they need." That's what I'm counting on!! Go Cynthia!<br /><br />So, a lesson from the plant kingdom, and maybe even the Heavenly kingdom... though up-rooting can be a bit traumatic, don't get rootbound. Stretch out, and keep blooming.Patty Edwardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12099546603575325446noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3990556552654261902.post-8934338802682619812009-01-30T10:41:00.006-05:002009-01-30T10:50:04.200-05:00TroyWell, the BIG weekend for Steeler fans everywhere is finally here!! The news stories on all of our local news have been headlined every day by what's going on in Tampa in preparation for the Super Bowl. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Bruce has been watching REPLAYs</span> of all of the past Steeler Super Bowls and Championship Games on the NFL Network for 2 weeks. I am ready for this game to begin.<br /><br />Leah told me about this great and inspiring article on nfl.com about Troy Polamalu... one of our <span style="font-weight: bold;">favorites</span> on the team! Here is a link to the article in case you missed it:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.nfl.com/news/story?id=09000d5d80e68a8d&template=without-video-with-comments&confirm=true&icampaign=SB43_Tue_2column_1">http://www.nfl.com/news/story?id=09000d5d80e68a8d&template=without-video-with-comments&confirm=true&icampaign=SB43_Tue_2column_1</a><br /><br />So glad that Troy had a great game in the AFC Championship!<br /><br />Our daughters are ALL super Steeler fans. And... our youngest, Samantha, lives in ... <span style="font-weight: bold;"> TROY</span> !Patty Edwardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12099546603575325446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3990556552654261902.post-69119117822525432242009-01-19T09:21:00.003-05:002009-01-19T09:28:45.126-05:00Steelers in SpaceGotta love dem Stillers!<br /><br />Steeler fans are die-hard and go to great lengths to see their guys play... hope this Pittsburgh Fan got to view the game somehow... maybe by,... satellite.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.truveo.com/Steelers-Space-Fan/id/2201822174">http://www.truveo.com/Steelers-Space-Fan/id/2201822174</a>Patty Edwardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12099546603575325446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3990556552654261902.post-70002722975186789632008-11-30T19:27:00.011-05:002008-12-07T20:18:33.616-05:00FIt to a TeaBet you never wondered why a 'teaspoon' is called a teaspoon, or a why tiny little round candles are called 'tea lights', or what's so special about a 'tea towel'. So, today, while I prepared a pot of perfectly brewed Monkey Picked Oolong / Silver Needle blend tea and measured out 3 'teaspoons' of the leaves , the little 'tea light' went on in my brain. The 'tea-spoon' began as a measure for brewing a cup of tea!<br /><br />With the popularity of coffee in this country, tea has been long over-looked. But it's making a comeback. Actually, tea has been recognized for its medicinal and taste benefits for centuries. It began as a beverage for emperors, and became a sought after commodity in Europe, enjoyed mainly by the aristocracy. As it became more available to the masses, it was still highly valued as a social centerpiece. Porcelain tea sets were so important to British families, the mistress of the house would dry them herself with a special linen cloth--her 'tea towel'.<br /><br />I've wanted to cut back on the caffeine and coffee, and found that teas are varied and flavorful, and I've come to prefer tea over coffee. I am most intrigued by the health benefits of tea, and it's great to think that I'm actually enjoying something that's good for me!<br /><br />If you are interested, here are some general qualities of the four main types of tea:<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.theteahousetimes.com/images/Your%20cup%20of%20Tea.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 206px; height: 217px;" src="http://www.theteahousetimes.com/images/Your%20cup%20of%20Tea.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(102, 51, 0);">White</span> -- the least processed tea, very high in antioxidants <span style="font-size:85%;">(studies show that antioxidants in white teas help to reduce the risk of cancer, particularly lung, colon, and skin cancer, and also strengthen your immune system and help with metabolism)</span>, very low in caffeine; excellent for hydration of the body and the skin, which acts naturally to reduce the signs of aging (fine lines and wrinkles); aids in detoxifying your body. A cup of white tea only has about 1% of the caffeine in a cup of coffee.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 51, 0); font-weight: bold;">Green</span> -- very high in antioxidants that boost the immune system and may help to reduce the risk of cancer (polyphenols), particularly lung, colon and skin cancers, helps to regulate your blood sugar, resist cavities and gingivitis, and it is good for your skin. Green tea also contains EGCG complex, which is very good for metabolism.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">Oolong</span> -- help to lower the intake of fat content from high-cholesterol meals and increase metabolism (this is why it is known as "diet tea"). The tannic acid in Oolong teas also helps to lower cholesterol levels. Good for the skin as well. Typically a very relaxing drink, although it does have a slight amount of caffeine.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Black</span> -- Medical research suggests that black teas assist in lowering cholesterol, preventing the absorption of cholesterol into the blood, gently stimulating the heart and circulatory system, keeping blood vessels soft, regulating blood sugar, and lowering blood pressure. It can help prevent heart disease and strokes. Contains 20% of the caffeine in coffee.<br /><br />And, all tea includes fluoride, which strengthens tooth enamel and reduces the formation of plaque.<br /><br />Good tea doesn't come in bags from the grocery store, but from a good tea store which sells loose leaf teas, which are higher quality and fresher. They can tell you how to brew each specific tea, too.Patty Edwardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12099546603575325446noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3990556552654261902.post-65555206250286925902008-11-23T12:06:00.007-05:002008-11-23T12:24:20.749-05:00Keyboard Shortcuts<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.madisonavenuejournal.com/images/eric-9.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 243px; height: 206px;" src="http://www.madisonavenuejournal.com/images/eric-9.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>I spent about an hour the other day trying to find my old 'cheat sheet' that had keyboard shortcuts for punctuation, foreign language and symbols. There are lots of ways to use the number pad (for Windows) and/or just simple key stroke combinations for laptops (MAC and PC).<br /><br />I never did find my old faithful list, but found a quick Internet search led to several listings online. None of them are as user-friendly as the one I've misplaced, but in case these would be helpful to anyone else, here are the links...<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">For MACs</span> <a href="http://tlt.its.psu.edu/suggestions/international/accents/codemac.html">http://tlt.its.psu.edu/suggestions/international/accents/codemac.html</a><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);">For PCs </span> <a href="http://tlt.its.psu.edu/suggestions/international/accents/codealt.html">http://tlt.its.psu.edu/suggestions/international/accents/codealt.html</a><br /><br />Next time I 'lose' my 'cheat sheet,, I'll just use my 'cheat blog'/. BTW... the photo has nothing to do with the posting,... I just wanted to make it a little more interesting.Patty Edwardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12099546603575325446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3990556552654261902.post-3826842008151676822008-11-18T12:25:00.018-05:002008-11-19T17:21:01.663-05:00Who-rah!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.post-gazette.com/images3/20060208jbRoethlisberger_230.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 231px; height: 233px;" src="http://www.post-gazette.com/images3/20060208jbRoethlisberger_230.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Ever been to a big parade celebrating the <span style="font-weight: bold;">return of a hero</span>(es)?<br /><br />I was at the parade for the first Steeler Super Bowl victory, <span style="font-weight: bold;">way back when</span>. It was such a big deal that the mayor declared the day a holiday, and the businesses gave their employees the day off. And, in spite of the frigid temperatures, and long.... long... wait for the team to arrive, all of the fans stayed there for their opportunity to cheer for their city's heroes, and to be a part of the big celebration, and to claim some of the glory, almost as if we had something to do with it. The excitement bordered on <span style="font-weight: bold;">worship</span> as fans sang the Stiller song and called out the names of the players riding by.<br /><br />This memory was sparked by something I recently read in Jack Hayford's book, <span style="font-style: italic;">The Reward Of Worship.</span> Hayford is describing a scene from the book of Revelation (chapters 4 & 5), which he says is an account of the apostle John witnessing the moment when the Son of God, the Lamb, having defeated sin and death, returns triumphantly to the Heavenly realm to take His throne. The Heavenly fans have been waiting, and watching, maybe even holding their breath. But when the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Hero</span> returns, they break out in spontaneous praise, and worship. They can't help themselves.<br /><br />There's much I don't understand about the book of Revelation, but having read this, it was as if a light went on in my little brain, and I gained a new pespective. Having experienced a little of fanaticism for our football team bringing glory to our town, I can only imagine the eurphoria inspired by the victory of the Christ, bringing salvation to the human race.<br /><br />Hayford says that while the book of Revelation arouses speculation on its symbolism and end times prophecy, it is at its core a book about worship. When the heavenly beings continually declare, "Holy, holy, holy...", it's not because they are mindless robots caught in a habit, but they are so awestruck, tongue-tied maybe, that it's all they CAN say.<br /><br />And, while it's great fun to cheer so fervently for the Steelers, the Penguins and the Nittany Lions, it's life-changing to cheer for the Lamb.Patty Edwardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12099546603575325446noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3990556552654261902.post-70765532114242876302008-11-15T09:14:00.020-05:002008-11-15T12:35:31.105-05:00Bloom Where You Are PlantedI used to have a sign on the wall of my office that said "<span style="font-style: italic;">Bloom where you are planted</span>". It was meant to be a reminder to me to make the best of each situation and to do my best to thrive wherever I found myself.<br /><br />We have a crabapple tree in our yard that blooms each Spring with glorious pink blossoms. When it's in full bloom, it evokes a sense of hope in the coming spring season of new birth after the dark, dreary, cold winter.<br /><br />We're well into Fall now, have had some frosty mornings and even a few snow flakes. And we've also had some unusually warm weather for this time of year. But in spite of the above average temps,<span style="font-weight: bold;"> I didn't expect to see this</span> when I opened the garage door ...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhim6bt3EOJAb98CDHeJHHTfmBUoQPtiVJZFqBodWcRuuWFVsz0gYY2rktcDh97Oc6hB3HL9a8FkasyrukYrSipwVm9DWmbd9vOgRL6W2aQuNwEKUtgq4n7zyGcg8gGQqpA_BYyALaj0yc/s1600-h/Crabby.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 248px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhim6bt3EOJAb98CDHeJHHTfmBUoQPtiVJZFqBodWcRuuWFVsz0gYY2rktcDh97Oc6hB3HL9a8FkasyrukYrSipwVm9DWmbd9vOgRL6W2aQuNwEKUtgq4n7zyGcg8gGQqpA_BYyALaj0yc/s320/Crabby.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5268936530651300690" border="0" /></a><br /><br />One branch of our little crabapple is in bloom! It's pretty, <span style="font-weight: bold;">but odd</span>. So, of course, I googled "crabapple trees that bloom in fall" and found that while it's not usual, neither should I call Dean Cain to come over and shoot an episode of <span style="font-style: italic;">Ripley's Believe It, Or Not.</span><br /><br />A plant (tree) that blooms out of season is usually caused by some stress during the normal growing season, which throws off the tree's internal mechanisms that control flowering. So, when temperatures and/or rainfall repeat the conditions present during the normal bloom time, the confused tree produces flowers.<br /><br />We were pondering this phenomenon. The tree's response to stress and changes in its environment, was to <span style="font-weight: bold;">bloom</span>! It dug deep into its xylem and phloem, and instead of shutting down, it made pretty flowers. This is certainly contrary to the pattern I see in my own reaction to stressful or confusing situations... I fret; I hyperventilate; I get, well, ... <span style="font-weight: bold;">crabby</span>.<br /><br />The Fall blossoms won't be producing any fruit... we've got some yukky cold weather forecast in the next few days which will likely put an end to the blooms. But, I've read that the Spring flowering of the <span style="font-style: italic;">flowering crab</span> probably won't be adversely affected by its Fall florescence. It will adjust and adapt and recover from the stress, and be back to its old self by Spring, and it most likely will flower and bear fruit in due season.<br /><br />And so, for however briefly, the contrast of the pretty pink flowers amid the backdrop of the brown and bleak landscape is a reminder to me that perspective is pretty important. If we tap into the hope that lies within us, we can bloom in spite of the season, and may even look a little prettier in the process.Patty Edwardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12099546603575325446noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3990556552654261902.post-67181041118409817962008-11-11T16:34:00.003-05:002008-11-11T17:50:44.651-05:00Rewards of Honor<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkkZwGBSBPn4wjA_WLdWe_LduAw5EtbpeCnMR1E1SCDGOgn-Qe3_v6gJ3NSGXeaJ5533naDOKMN4E2-uFYiiR3deH0FcrnqLXrukEHag-WCijo-J3D5jLZ_0Yye5FdHNBhEvWRz4LwA4U/s1600-h/DSCN0348.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkkZwGBSBPn4wjA_WLdWe_LduAw5EtbpeCnMR1E1SCDGOgn-Qe3_v6gJ3NSGXeaJ5533naDOKMN4E2-uFYiiR3deH0FcrnqLXrukEHag-WCijo-J3D5jLZ_0Yye5FdHNBhEvWRz4LwA4U/s320/DSCN0348.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5267535957234614850" border="0" /></a><br />I went to the post office today to buy some stamps and found it was closed. I remembered then that it is Veterans Day, and I was glad that we have set aside a day to honor the veterans who have served our country.<br /><br />A few weekends ago, Bruce & I traveled to Washington D. C. to visit our daughter and son-in-law. Ashley and Nate took us to the Iwo Jima Memorial, which we had driven past many times, but hadn't stopped to read the plaques and to reflect on the sacrifice of so many in one of the fiercest battles of WWII. While we were there, several bus loads of veterans who had fought in the Pacific Theatre arrived and assembled in front of the monument for a group picture and for some reflection of their own. They became the living part of the monument.<br /><br />After the photos and the hushed conversation, they spontaneously broke into a poignant and loud rendition of "God Bless America". These men, heroes every one, weren't focusing on personal loss or the horrors of the war, but they were blessing the nation they served and reiterating the freedoms they fought to preserve.<br /><br />Two days later, American citizens exercised the right to vote for the next president of the United States, as well as many local and congressional leaders. So many men and women who have served/now serve our country in the armed forces are part of the reason we can.Patty Edwardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12099546603575325446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3990556552654261902.post-88076483283904703022008-08-27T13:58:00.005-05:002008-08-27T14:16:58.127-05:00Grass RootsWith all of the hype about the National Conventions for the Democratic and Republican parties, and who will be whose choice for VP candidate, you gotta realize that while so many well-known people are in the spot light, there is <span style="font-weight: bold;">lots of talent</span> out there that goes unnoticed by the general public.<br /><br />It came to my attention by a good friend of ours that there is a grass roots campaign <span style="font-style: italic;">a-brewin' </span>which you may not have heard of. While I post this tidbit of interest here in my blog, <span style="font-weight: bold;">I disavow any responsibility for its contents.</span> You can click here to see the recent news coverage...<br /><br /><a href="http://www.thelopezfamilyonline.com/play.php?first=Bruce%20J.%20&last=Edwards">http://www.thelopezfamilyonline.com/play.php?first=Bruce%20J.%20&last=Edwards</a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />It takes a minute or so for the video to load.</span><br /><br />(Thanks, <a href="http://www.firstalliancehbg.com/">John</a>!!)Patty Edwardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12099546603575325446noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3990556552654261902.post-73008541193171292212008-08-19T14:15:00.009-05:002008-08-19T16:42:11.403-05:00Ping!Upon occasion, I have had problems with my computer and/or Internet connection. Because my computer network savvy is very limited, I have spent many hours on phone calls with my ISP or software providers, learning ways to resolve my computer issues. One of the first things the Help Desk folks try to establish is that I'm actually connected to my server. To do this, they '<span style="font-style: italic;">Ping</span>' our DSL modem. <span style="font-style: italic;">Ping</span> works by sending “<span style="font-style: italic;">echo request</span>” packets to the target host and listening for “<span style="font-style: italic;">echo response</span>” replies. Thus the technician can determine that all the appropriate signals and stuff are getting through, and that the connection is working well.<br /><br />I was thinking about this recently as I read a new book by Margaret Feinberg. She has become an author wh<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSBtLbrnr1CaFMF1Mu9ZSEn5ZJB9gsmeyjtVk40kzDDPLAgda3KMvLFNbT3WyLThS3fz40MwomA9zMYrdhzxU60-x6LVcUUdozFAEtZCPZSKYx_EVlPYgB8jh9mYeD5S9Q_J6i9ExpACk/s1600-h/41CyQlwZEWL._SL500_AA240_.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 216px; height: 202px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSBtLbrnr1CaFMF1Mu9ZSEn5ZJB9gsmeyjtVk40kzDDPLAgda3KMvLFNbT3WyLThS3fz40MwomA9zMYrdhzxU60-x6LVcUUdozFAEtZCPZSKYx_EVlPYgB8jh9mYeD5S9Q_J6i9ExpACk/s320/41CyQlwZEWL._SL500_AA240_.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236346323960664658" border="0" /></a>ose works resound in my soul. The book is <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Sacred-Echo-Margaret-Feinberg/dp/0310274176/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1219179980&sr=8-1"><span style="font-style: italic;">The Sacred Echo</span></a>. It's is about prayer, but it's also about hearing God answer you back. Kind of like a Holy Ping.<br /><br />I don't say that lightly, because so much of what Feinberg describes as <span style="font-style: italic;">sacred echos</span> in her life and her prayer journey causes me to remember and deeply reflect on my own. She tells of how God has often used repetitive events and themes in her daily life, like an echo, to get her attention and draw her to Him. She shares real life events and thoughts that challenge me to revisit some areas I've set aside.<br /><br />Reading this book caused me to check my 'connection' to my Source. While I often send out those "echo request" packets, I need to listen for and to identify the "echo response" replies. Feinberg shares how the repetitive nature of a sacred echo hints that something important may be going on, prodding her to consider, and investigate, how God is at work in her life.<br /><br />I just finished the book, but I'll be reading it again. And probably again after that. Mostly because of what her expressed thoughts generate in mine. It's not just for women, either. Eleven of the fourteen book jacket promotion commentaries were written by men.Patty Edwardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12099546603575325446noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3990556552654261902.post-14543948145743030532008-07-31T13:46:00.006-05:002008-07-31T14:11:16.650-05:00Fowl PlayOK, this will be the last one. I promise. Probably.<br /><br />Big story on the news last night... <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.wpxi.com/news/17049477/detail.html">Jogger Attacked by Wild Turkey</a>.</span><br /><br />It got my attention.<br /><br />In a city park, no less. Hmmm. What's going on with all of these turkeys all of a sudden? Aliens??<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5BouMbe1ejVt19prs7-Oc1sr7FOajkoOfaB65MPlzDJD2gxuROK3NxYq9_DnfW9ExPmQu74gUdbqgT-ikNxcvT8sSvwTWAXGKKCVk7LF9FI7JZsCth5pPXPsCSQz-7iIbmLeo5tSCTH8/s1600-h/turkey+trot.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 263px; height: 224px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5BouMbe1ejVt19prs7-Oc1sr7FOajkoOfaB65MPlzDJD2gxuROK3NxYq9_DnfW9ExPmQu74gUdbqgT-ikNxcvT8sSvwTWAXGKKCVk7LF9FI7JZsCth5pPXPsCSQz-7iIbmLeo5tSCTH8/s320/turkey+trot.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5229257199944945314" border="0" /></a><br />Seems an unwitting girl was just jogging along a trail in Highland Park, and a big turkey started attacking her. She fought back with her hat (of course!), and he eventually stopped chasing her and left her alone. The <span style="font-style: italic;">wildlife</span> experts at the zoo thought perhaps a male turkey was out <span style="font-style: italic;">cruising for a mate</span>.<br /><br />Next thing ya know, we'll be seeing wild turkeys at weddings, trying to catch the bride's garter, or at dance clubs... doing the Turkey Trot.Patty Edwardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12099546603575325446noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3990556552654261902.post-91736126393746415022008-07-27T11:35:00.008-05:002008-07-27T12:22:16.737-05:00More Turkey Talk<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bryanfoods.com/images/products/hotdogs/hotdogs.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 236px; height: 197px;" src="http://www.bryanfoods.com/images/products/hotdogs/hotdogs.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />This turkey thing is really getting to me. I was grilling some dinner the other evening... bratwurst for Bruce, 98% fat-free hot dogs for me. The turkeys were there in the back yard as I was grilling. We've identified two separate flocks... they take turns feeding and waddling in the yard.<br /><br />So, the first troop trouped by as I tended to the barbecuing victuals. They'd periodically glanced my way, gobble a little, eat some bugs and then went back into the woods.<br /><br />Soon thereafter, the second family emerged, and they came a little closer, gobbled a little, and ate some bugs. One of the big ones, a mama I suppose, waddled over to the deck (I think she's the one who was at the door the other night). She looked up at me with those beady little eyes and clucked her little heart out, and then they all trekked back into the woods.<br /><br />We sat down to dinner finally, and Bruce looked at me quizzically as I ate my <span style="font-weight: bold;">peanut butter and jelly sandwich.</span> My 98% fat-free hot dogs were, of course... turkey dogs. I just couldn't eat them.Patty Edwardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12099546603575325446noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3990556552654261902.post-73419107855914192652008-07-23T16:40:00.010-05:002008-07-24T11:22:13.283-05:00Not the Raven<span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 0, 0);">Once upon a morning dreary, at my desk, weak and weary,</span> <span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 0, 0);"><br />Pondering many a quaint website, email and computer chore ,</span> <span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 0, 0);"><br />While I nodded, nearly napping, suddenly there came a tapping,</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 0, 0);"> As of some one gently rapping, rapping at my chamber door.</span> <span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 0, 0);"><br />`'Tis some visitor,' I muttered, `tapping at my chamber door<br />-</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 0);"> </span><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 0, 0);"> Only this, and nothing more.'</span><br /><br />Or not. I got up from my desk to take a peek... what was rapping, rapping at my chamber door?<br /><br />Nothing there, must have been a tree limb or something.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 0, 0);">Back into the chamber turning, all my soul within me burning,</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 0, 0);">Soon again I heard a tapping </span><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 0, 0);">somewhat louder than before.</span> <span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 0, 0);"><br />`Surely,' said I, `surely that is something at my window lattice;<br /></span> <span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 0, 0);">Let me see then, what thereat is, and this mystery explore -</span> <span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 0, 0);"><br />Let my heart be still a moment and this mystery explore;<br />-</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 0);"> </span><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 0, 0);"> 'Tis the wind and nothing more!'</span> <span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 0, 0);"><br /><br />Open here I flung the blinds, when, with many a flirt and flutter,</span> <span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 0, 0);"><br />Out there stepped a stately... um, turkey... of the saintly days of yore.</span> <span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 0, 0);"><br />Not the least obeisance made she; not a minute stopped or stayed she;</span> <span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 0, 0);"><br />But, with mien of lord or lady, perched outside my chamber door -</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 0, 0);"> Perched and gobbled just outside my chamber door<br />-</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 0);"> </span><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 0, 0);"> Perched, and sat, and nothing more.</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0z9vRLibKB2bFRWfirgLaRTSK2mDIjC3S4Z7tXVOPnNp2EutIDgULYevlUytt3FaX197rYZKhA-GABGMw8130-m26GbYAnEbUGp9lXck-9Tj2JatshYsUpoyteGs80XbtGScM0l19wl4/s1600-h/DSCN0307.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0z9vRLibKB2bFRWfirgLaRTSK2mDIjC3S4Z7tXVOPnNp2EutIDgULYevlUytt3FaX197rYZKhA-GABGMw8130-m26GbYAnEbUGp9lXck-9Tj2JatshYsUpoyteGs80XbtGScM0l19wl4/s200/DSCN0307.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5226340290827311986" border="0" /></a>Let's call her Lenore. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Lenore the turkey</span>. And Lenore has <span style="font-weight: bold;">lots</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;">of babies! </span> And she's got a turkey club. Not the kind with bacon, lettuce, tomato and mayo... but other mama turkeys with <span style="font-weight: bold;">more babies</span>. And they all have taken up residence in our yard.<br /><br />Last year, we would occasionally see a turkey troupe cutting across our yard. <span style="font-weight: bold;">We thought they were cute.</span> But this year, what happened??? There's three times as many of them, and they are <span style="font-weight: bold;">always</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> there!!!</span> Sometimes, I hear this strange clamour, and realize after a few moments that it's clucking. They no longer just trek across the yard on the way to grandma's house, they've established residency. Turkey feathers litter the back yard.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZjVWimuVhVnXkUtckUTIjDAH8bXiQ-piBrmp2lv6dqozcgiLSznOfeqFlieK7kbtT3mJQ3c3FdAVXtD83ul0bsQwmMJ8bzq6bR5L7CntSaHc9Yeu-806E9bCyD-EOIgrfTcEiwcZz3yQ/s1600-h/DSCN0304.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZjVWimuVhVnXkUtckUTIjDAH8bXiQ-piBrmp2lv6dqozcgiLSznOfeqFlieK7kbtT3mJQ3c3FdAVXtD83ul0bsQwmMJ8bzq6bR5L7CntSaHc9Yeu-806E9bCyD-EOIgrfTcEiwcZz3yQ/s320/DSCN0304.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5226340678961063778" border="0" /></a><br />Yesterday, one was touring our back deck, and startled me at our dining room door as we ate dinner. This morning, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Lenore and her turkeylettes were tap-tap-tapping at my window.</span> When I looked at them through the blinds, they just stared back at me. I kind of felt like I was in the zoo, and they came to look at me.<br /><br />I confess that I'll never look upon Thanksgiving Dinner the same way again. The deer don't even seem to hang around as much, now that the turkeys have taken roost. Will they ever move on, will they ever find another comfy patch of woods to call home??<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Quoth the turkey... nevermore.</span>Patty Edwardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12099546603575325446noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3990556552654261902.post-18826459486765446832008-07-23T16:03:00.005-05:002008-07-23T16:39:55.299-05:00Dana and Tom<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ__ixfJoIMr27Emj1TgGYNgtGES034AhH6NeWvd3KAfSAyQE442ImckNz5ooqRN8Kd1eIt7CbeCzkwdRmk3zq_6EagC9_an2cuB5wt7fnSD7PxNsPhssGLjIkYhUSl8nzdZM1JoVIQow/s1600-h/DSCN0282.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ__ixfJoIMr27Emj1TgGYNgtGES034AhH6NeWvd3KAfSAyQE442ImckNz5ooqRN8Kd1eIt7CbeCzkwdRmk3zq_6EagC9_an2cuB5wt7fnSD7PxNsPhssGLjIkYhUSl8nzdZM1JoVIQow/s320/DSCN0282.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5226327107369628706" border="0" /></a>We had the lovely opportunity to share the joy of our niece's wedding this past weekend. Dana and Tom were married Saturday afternoon, with a traditional and symbolic ceremony at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in Oakland. Dana was a beautiful and lovely bride; Tom was a handsome and charming groom. And, the whole wedding party was picture perfect!<br /><br />The wedding reception was at the Carnegie Museum Music Hall, which was conveniently right across the street. And there was lots of delicious food, fun, and Greek dancing!!<br /><br />Dana and her brothers, Chris and Mark, grew up as our neighbors as well as our family, so it was special to share in the delight of the weekend. The new extended family is wonderful and we were glad to meet them and spend some time with them!Patty Edwardshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12099546603575325446noreply@blogger.com1