There is a commercial on TV right now with the line “Ah, the relaxing sound of nature.” Yes nature does have a relaxing sound. But which one sound in nature is the most relaxing? To me that would have to be a small water fall. Just thinking about one helps to relax me. I guess that is why water fountains have become so popular. Its either that or the fact that they can help mask the unwanted noise of city life.
No matter what the reason, water fountains have become all the rage. And not only with city dwellers, but those in the suburbs and even rural folks as well. Why people in country feel the need to mask noise, I’ll never know, but they do. The only problem I find with water fountains is that they make me want to run to the bathroom ( Oh give me a break, I’m almost social security age, and if I can find humor in that so can you!).
No matter the reason for the popularity of water fountains, they are a big business. The less room the bigger the water fountain, or so it seems, according to the gentleman (I’ll call him Mr. Z) that I was talking to at a home improvement super store. He told me that his store put in at least 25 water ponds with nice size water fountains this past summer year. And all of them were for people that lived in town. Mr. Z thought it was amazing that the smallest yards had the biggest ones.
Now I happen to like the sounds of nature, so I have no trouble picturing a pond with a water fountain in my yard. And we have a lot of room to support one too. But according to Mr. Z, people who have land usually go for the table top or wall mounted water fountains. What kind? The most popular one is a lion head water fountain.
Ponds do require some work. Cleaning and keeping clean can be a hassle. Then you also have to mess around with chemicals, for the ph, killing larvae from all types of bugs, and keeping the moss and scum at bay. And if you want fish in your pond, you really have to be careful, to much chemical can kill and so can not enough. Then if you add plants, it can get even more confusing. I think I just talked myself out of the pond I wanted in the back yard!
Yes, I think a table top or wall mounted water fountain would be best. Less work, no chemicals and the soothing sound of running water. If I get one for inside, the cat could use it as a water bowl. If I get on for outside, it could be another bird bath, a source of entertainment for both of us and the cat. Yes, I am really considering getting one. I’ve even started checking them out, both on line and in stores. And the more I see of the lion head water fountains, the more I like them.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Sunday, November 29, 2009
I Love the Outdoors!
I love the outdoors. To me, that is the next best thing to heaven. No place else can I feel as close to my Lord as I do when I am either in the woods, or playing in the dirt in my garden. And I try to respect nature and help it when I can. I don’t let my hubby take down all the dead trees in our woods. We need to leave some for the birds and other creatures that live there. In that way I am respecting nature.
By helping nature, we feed the birds and whatever other creatures happen to come into our yard. We also try to put back whatever we have taken. We have planted several trees on our property. And we have also tried to prevent some trees from dying, by cutting any vines that happen to be growing up them. That alone is no small task. In our woods we have wild grape, poison ivy and oak, honey suckle, and several others I have not identified as of yet. Some of the vines are bigger around than my fist!
In my flower beds I try to plant things that are non evasive and that all winged creatures like to eat or suck the nectar out of. I even have broken pots for frogs and other insects to hide or nest in. Not all my plants get dead-headed in the fall either. That way the birds that stay here year round will have some seeds to eat when we don’t get to the feeders as fast as they thing we should. It can be very entertaining to watch a bird land on the dead flower and it slowly droop to the ground.
I also have a lot of birdhouses all over the yard and even into the woods. Most of them were unfinished wood birdhouses that I painted and some are store bought. I have a lot of fun buying the unfinished ones and doing them myself. It is a great way to pass the winter months when I can’t go outside because of the weather. I have downloaded some plans so that hopefully the hubby and I can build some birdhouses in the spring. The internet has also provided me with ideas on using everyday “trash” and turning it into birdhouses. It should be fun to try doing it, and it is recycling.
Yesterday afternoon my hubby hung up my newest store bought birdhouse. It looks like an old canteen! And this morning while I was eating my breakfast, I was watching Mr. Wren inspect it. I am sure it passed his inspection because I latter watched him take some dried grass and small twigs into it. Now I can’t wait for spring to arrive and eggs to be laid in it. The activity of the wrens is fascinating to watch. For some reason our wrens prefer the southwestern side of our house. While the sparrows like the northeastern side. But I have seen them living in houses next to each other in the southeastern side of the yard. Go figure.
By helping nature, we feed the birds and whatever other creatures happen to come into our yard. We also try to put back whatever we have taken. We have planted several trees on our property. And we have also tried to prevent some trees from dying, by cutting any vines that happen to be growing up them. That alone is no small task. In our woods we have wild grape, poison ivy and oak, honey suckle, and several others I have not identified as of yet. Some of the vines are bigger around than my fist!
In my flower beds I try to plant things that are non evasive and that all winged creatures like to eat or suck the nectar out of. I even have broken pots for frogs and other insects to hide or nest in. Not all my plants get dead-headed in the fall either. That way the birds that stay here year round will have some seeds to eat when we don’t get to the feeders as fast as they thing we should. It can be very entertaining to watch a bird land on the dead flower and it slowly droop to the ground.
I also have a lot of birdhouses all over the yard and even into the woods. Most of them were unfinished wood birdhouses that I painted and some are store bought. I have a lot of fun buying the unfinished ones and doing them myself. It is a great way to pass the winter months when I can’t go outside because of the weather. I have downloaded some plans so that hopefully the hubby and I can build some birdhouses in the spring. The internet has also provided me with ideas on using everyday “trash” and turning it into birdhouses. It should be fun to try doing it, and it is recycling.
Yesterday afternoon my hubby hung up my newest store bought birdhouse. It looks like an old canteen! And this morning while I was eating my breakfast, I was watching Mr. Wren inspect it. I am sure it passed his inspection because I latter watched him take some dried grass and small twigs into it. Now I can’t wait for spring to arrive and eggs to be laid in it. The activity of the wrens is fascinating to watch. For some reason our wrens prefer the southwestern side of our house. While the sparrows like the northeastern side. But I have seen them living in houses next to each other in the southeastern side of the yard. Go figure.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Our Binoculars
If you enjoy the outdoors, you more than likely have a pair of binoculars. We have three pairs, one is always on the back porch, one by the kitchen table, and one pair in my car. I also have a monocular that I keep in my bag. We aren’t nosey, we just like looking at what ever wildlife we happen to see. Birds are a big favorite here right now.
I first learned how to use binoculars when I was much younger. My Dad used to go hunting a lot and liked to “check out” an area before hand. Believe it or not, he wasn’t looking for prey, it was the lay out of the land that he was interested in. You know, where roads, paths and buildings are. My Dad has always been and will always be a true Boy Scout, he believes in being prepared for any situation.
There are so many different types of binoculars it can be difficult to decide which ones are right for you. First you have to decide what you are going to be using them for. Then you need to know who will be using them the most. Does the main user have any special needs? Or if it one pair for the entire family. Are there any children who will be using the binoculars?
The numbers, 10x40, can determine what the binoculars are best suited for. The first number is how many times the subject is magnified. The second number is the width of the front lens measured in millimeters. Usually the higher the second number, the sharper and brighter the image. But the first number is the one that can throw you off. I highly recommend that you do not go with any number higher then a 10x if you will at anytime use the binoculars as hand held ones. The higher the first number, the more shaking from hand holding is visible. The shaking is from a number of possibilities, the weight of the binoculars, your blood rushing throw your veins, or just unsteady hands. Unless you spend the extra money to get a pair that has image stabilizing.
If you are looking for kid binoculars, you need to keep in mind that a child’s eyes are not the same as an adults. What I mean is that they are not done “growing” or maturing. And also the child’s face is smaller so the eye pieces may not match up with the child’s eyes. I have found that light weight, compact or semi-compact work best for the younger set. Also, get waterproof, not sealed binoculars. I’ve heard the “sealed” will allow more dust inside of them.
When my son was young, I bought a pair of Vivitar binoculars for him. They were semi-compact and lightweight. Both he and I used them as our birding binoculars. It took a very short time for him to understand how they worked and what he needed to do to enable himself to see clearly. To me, they were the ideal kids binoculars. But to my son, they were our bird watching binoculars.
I still have those Vivitar binoculars, they are kept by the kitchen table now. Look almost new and get used almost daily. I couldn’t have made a better purchase.
I first learned how to use binoculars when I was much younger. My Dad used to go hunting a lot and liked to “check out” an area before hand. Believe it or not, he wasn’t looking for prey, it was the lay out of the land that he was interested in. You know, where roads, paths and buildings are. My Dad has always been and will always be a true Boy Scout, he believes in being prepared for any situation.
There are so many different types of binoculars it can be difficult to decide which ones are right for you. First you have to decide what you are going to be using them for. Then you need to know who will be using them the most. Does the main user have any special needs? Or if it one pair for the entire family. Are there any children who will be using the binoculars?
The numbers, 10x40, can determine what the binoculars are best suited for. The first number is how many times the subject is magnified. The second number is the width of the front lens measured in millimeters. Usually the higher the second number, the sharper and brighter the image. But the first number is the one that can throw you off. I highly recommend that you do not go with any number higher then a 10x if you will at anytime use the binoculars as hand held ones. The higher the first number, the more shaking from hand holding is visible. The shaking is from a number of possibilities, the weight of the binoculars, your blood rushing throw your veins, or just unsteady hands. Unless you spend the extra money to get a pair that has image stabilizing.
If you are looking for kid binoculars, you need to keep in mind that a child’s eyes are not the same as an adults. What I mean is that they are not done “growing” or maturing. And also the child’s face is smaller so the eye pieces may not match up with the child’s eyes. I have found that light weight, compact or semi-compact work best for the younger set. Also, get waterproof, not sealed binoculars. I’ve heard the “sealed” will allow more dust inside of them.
When my son was young, I bought a pair of Vivitar binoculars for him. They were semi-compact and lightweight. Both he and I used them as our birding binoculars. It took a very short time for him to understand how they worked and what he needed to do to enable himself to see clearly. To me, they were the ideal kids binoculars. But to my son, they were our bird watching binoculars.
I still have those Vivitar binoculars, they are kept by the kitchen table now. Look almost new and get used almost daily. I couldn’t have made a better purchase.
Friday, November 27, 2009
Illegal Aliens
I just had an idea. Why don’t we, this country, help to make all people feel more welcome? We can give them free medical care. Give them money to live off of. Provide them with housing. And make sure all government agencies (federal, state and more importantly local) have or have access to translators so they will understand all that we offer them. We have to make sure that they know they are welcome here, so we will not make them pay taxes either.
Oh, wait. We do that already don’t we. We give it all away to illegal immigrants. Not to those who have come here openly and honestly. But to those who sneak into this country. I am starting to wonder if I would be better off being an illegal. If I was, I would not have to worry about getting sick. I would just walk into any hospital get the best medical attention possible, get whatever was needed and leave. No bill to worry about. The government will pay it.
If I was an illegal, I wouldn’t have to worry about heating, electric, water or anything in the house either. All the utility companies have programs that will help me pay for all of that. I have yet to meet one U.S. citizen that makes under $1,000 a month (before taxes) get that kind of help. And there are hundreds of thousands of them. Maybe they would like to become illegal’s with me.
If I were an illegal, I could work at my job and have more money in my pocket. I would say I have more dependents then I actually do, and I would not bother filling any tax returns. Why should I? I used either a made up social security or someone else’s. So how are they going to find me? I won’t stay in one job longer than two years, three at the most. Besides, the documentation I am using belongs to someone you has already left this county, and there are at least three other people using it also.
Want to become an illegal with me? You can perform all kinds of petty crimes, and what is the worse that will happen. They catch you, put you in a detention center - heated in the winter and air conditioned in summer, plenty of food to eat, TV and radio in your own language, a bed, and nothing that you have to do - then after about three months they deport you - put me on a bus, train or plane so you can go “home“ for a visit, and then you sneak back here when you are ready to go back to work.
If you want to make sure that you can’t be deported, have a baby in this country. The government can not and will not send you back to wherever it is that you came from. Why? Because the baby is a U.S. citizen. Not dual citizenship, but a full pledged, 100%, U.S. citizen. The mother and child get the best medical care that money can buy, and they don’t have to pay one penny for it. The bleeding hearts in this country will not split up a family.
The few times I had the opportunity to travel to other countries, no one went out of there way understand me. If I got lost or needed any kind of assistance, the police did not have translators or access to them. I was a visitor in their country, there for I needed to learn their language. I wasn’t trying to take anyone’s job or anything close to that. I was a tourist, and I didn’t plan on staying to help deplete the national resources of the country. And most of the time they let me know that they would be more than happy to see me, and all Americans leave their county.
You know, I wouldn’t mind if we gave more to the tourists, or even the legal aliens, but we don’t. We give it all to the illegal aliens. And I don’t know about anyone else, but I’m tired of it. Either treat us, the U.S. citizens better than illegal’s, or maybe we should all become illegal aliens.
Oh, wait. We do that already don’t we. We give it all away to illegal immigrants. Not to those who have come here openly and honestly. But to those who sneak into this country. I am starting to wonder if I would be better off being an illegal. If I was, I would not have to worry about getting sick. I would just walk into any hospital get the best medical attention possible, get whatever was needed and leave. No bill to worry about. The government will pay it.
If I was an illegal, I wouldn’t have to worry about heating, electric, water or anything in the house either. All the utility companies have programs that will help me pay for all of that. I have yet to meet one U.S. citizen that makes under $1,000 a month (before taxes) get that kind of help. And there are hundreds of thousands of them. Maybe they would like to become illegal’s with me.
If I were an illegal, I could work at my job and have more money in my pocket. I would say I have more dependents then I actually do, and I would not bother filling any tax returns. Why should I? I used either a made up social security or someone else’s. So how are they going to find me? I won’t stay in one job longer than two years, three at the most. Besides, the documentation I am using belongs to someone you has already left this county, and there are at least three other people using it also.
Want to become an illegal with me? You can perform all kinds of petty crimes, and what is the worse that will happen. They catch you, put you in a detention center - heated in the winter and air conditioned in summer, plenty of food to eat, TV and radio in your own language, a bed, and nothing that you have to do - then after about three months they deport you - put me on a bus, train or plane so you can go “home“ for a visit, and then you sneak back here when you are ready to go back to work.
If you want to make sure that you can’t be deported, have a baby in this country. The government can not and will not send you back to wherever it is that you came from. Why? Because the baby is a U.S. citizen. Not dual citizenship, but a full pledged, 100%, U.S. citizen. The mother and child get the best medical care that money can buy, and they don’t have to pay one penny for it. The bleeding hearts in this country will not split up a family.
The few times I had the opportunity to travel to other countries, no one went out of there way understand me. If I got lost or needed any kind of assistance, the police did not have translators or access to them. I was a visitor in their country, there for I needed to learn their language. I wasn’t trying to take anyone’s job or anything close to that. I was a tourist, and I didn’t plan on staying to help deplete the national resources of the country. And most of the time they let me know that they would be more than happy to see me, and all Americans leave their county.
You know, I wouldn’t mind if we gave more to the tourists, or even the legal aliens, but we don’t. We give it all to the illegal aliens. And I don’t know about anyone else, but I’m tired of it. Either treat us, the U.S. citizens better than illegal’s, or maybe we should all become illegal aliens.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Memories
There are so many memories in this house. Some of the memories are so sad and heart breaking I cry as if that event just happened and I‘m reliving it all over again. But there are a lot that bring a smile and of then end with side splitting laughter as if it too had just happened.
One on those memories happened bout 4 years after we moved into this house. I don’t remember what started it but it ended in a water fight in the kitchen. My cousin was here after she had had a “fight” with her mother, my older brother was involved and so was I. Like I said, I don’t recall how it started, but it was a big water fight. The spray hose thingy at the kitchen sink got used and then the garden hose was brought in! We were laughing and spraying each other and everything else that got in the way. By the time my Mother walked in everything and everyone was drenched. Mom didn’t act mad or upset or even surprised. She just told us to cleaning things up when we were done and then she left the room.
I can also remember my Dad painting the front porch. Battle ship gray was the color he always used. The porch was a wrap around one and Dad started at the point furthest from the front door. He was just about done when the neighbors cat, Tux, came walking around the side of the porch. As Tux picked up each paw, he shook it and placed it back down. Dad just watched. When Tux got to the bench by the door, he jumped up onto it, walked across it, leaving gray paw prints on the white bench. Dad just calmly watched Tux, knowing that he would more than likely have to do the whole thing over again next weekend.
My sister was acting out all the parts in everything she was reading at one time. Romeo and Juliet, the dagger seen, at the top of the steps. She calmly closed the book and set it down before she came tumbling down the steps. Before Mom and I could react to the noise, She was heading back up the steps to finish the scene! All Mom told her was to be more careful with the books she was reading.
One of the more recent side splitting memories happened about ten years ago. Mom decided that it was time to redo the kitchen. And being a do-it-yourself type of family, that is how we did it. We went to the home improvement store and bought the cabinets, sink, paint, and everything else needed. We did 95% of it ourselves. We did call in a plumber to hook up the sink and put the new dish washer in. Long story short, everything is done except for the painting. My son, my daughter, my one niece, and I were doing that when it ended up as a paint fight. Thank goodness for latex paint. We were covered in paint. There are pictures to prove that this actually happened. But I don’t know how to import them, so you will just have to take my word for it. The kitchen didn’t look half bad when we were done cleaning everything up.
One on those memories happened bout 4 years after we moved into this house. I don’t remember what started it but it ended in a water fight in the kitchen. My cousin was here after she had had a “fight” with her mother, my older brother was involved and so was I. Like I said, I don’t recall how it started, but it was a big water fight. The spray hose thingy at the kitchen sink got used and then the garden hose was brought in! We were laughing and spraying each other and everything else that got in the way. By the time my Mother walked in everything and everyone was drenched. Mom didn’t act mad or upset or even surprised. She just told us to cleaning things up when we were done and then she left the room.
I can also remember my Dad painting the front porch. Battle ship gray was the color he always used. The porch was a wrap around one and Dad started at the point furthest from the front door. He was just about done when the neighbors cat, Tux, came walking around the side of the porch. As Tux picked up each paw, he shook it and placed it back down. Dad just watched. When Tux got to the bench by the door, he jumped up onto it, walked across it, leaving gray paw prints on the white bench. Dad just calmly watched Tux, knowing that he would more than likely have to do the whole thing over again next weekend.
My sister was acting out all the parts in everything she was reading at one time. Romeo and Juliet, the dagger seen, at the top of the steps. She calmly closed the book and set it down before she came tumbling down the steps. Before Mom and I could react to the noise, She was heading back up the steps to finish the scene! All Mom told her was to be more careful with the books she was reading.
One of the more recent side splitting memories happened about ten years ago. Mom decided that it was time to redo the kitchen. And being a do-it-yourself type of family, that is how we did it. We went to the home improvement store and bought the cabinets, sink, paint, and everything else needed. We did 95% of it ourselves. We did call in a plumber to hook up the sink and put the new dish washer in. Long story short, everything is done except for the painting. My son, my daughter, my one niece, and I were doing that when it ended up as a paint fight. Thank goodness for latex paint. We were covered in paint. There are pictures to prove that this actually happened. But I don’t know how to import them, so you will just have to take my word for it. The kitchen didn’t look half bad when we were done cleaning everything up.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Moving
I am at my Dad's place right now. I have a lot of memories here. As well I should, we moved in this place in 1961. Before that we lived about 4 blocks away on a street that was only two blocks long, but had over 250 kids living on it. Always someone to play with and something to do. But this house was different. Located on one of the busiest streets in the bourgh, hardly any kids, and nothing to do. One good thing about the house, we were less than a block from the elementary school we went to.
We moved here because my Dad's mother was very sick and dying from cancer. She really couldn't do to much for herself or her youngest son (who still lived with her, never married and in his thirty's). The doctors had done all they could at that time, and besides, my grandmother decided that it was time to die. She believed that a person only lived so long and then they were on borrowed time and she was afraid she was using the time that belonged to one of us four grandkids.
When the house was purchased, a lot of work had to done on it. It was a 5 bedroom with one bath. We needed another bedroom and another bath. The breakfast room was to be converted into the extra bedroom and bath for my grandmother. The kitchen and the existing bath both need a major renovation. Neither one had any updating since probably the 30's. And of course we needed to paint, sand the hard wood floors and get them refinished.
It was a lot of work, but I think we all pulled our own weight. We spent weeks not only working on the house along with the contractors, but also packing things up. We did have two homes to move into one, so everything had to be gone through, checked and double checked. Then the two old homes had to be made ready for the new owners. It seemed like years before we were ready to actually move in. I know it took about three months for the “new” house to be ready, but for us kids it was the longest wait we had ever experienced.
I can remember the Saturday we finally made the move. My Uncle was over for breakfast and in the back of his car was filled to the very top with boxes. We were so excited. I'm not sure what we thought would happen with this move. Did we expect to see some magic or something? To be honest with you, I don't remember being that excited before that day. Christmas didn't even come close. You can imagine how disappointed we were when we were told that we would not be there for the big move!
We were being sent to the movies! Instead of moving, we went to the movies! I'm sure someone out there has heard that saying,”Move while they are at the movies.” Well that is what happened to us. Our parents moved while we were at the movies! We all laugh about it now. But it was quite an experience.
We moved here because my Dad's mother was very sick and dying from cancer. She really couldn't do to much for herself or her youngest son (who still lived with her, never married and in his thirty's). The doctors had done all they could at that time, and besides, my grandmother decided that it was time to die. She believed that a person only lived so long and then they were on borrowed time and she was afraid she was using the time that belonged to one of us four grandkids.
When the house was purchased, a lot of work had to done on it. It was a 5 bedroom with one bath. We needed another bedroom and another bath. The breakfast room was to be converted into the extra bedroom and bath for my grandmother. The kitchen and the existing bath both need a major renovation. Neither one had any updating since probably the 30's. And of course we needed to paint, sand the hard wood floors and get them refinished.
It was a lot of work, but I think we all pulled our own weight. We spent weeks not only working on the house along with the contractors, but also packing things up. We did have two homes to move into one, so everything had to be gone through, checked and double checked. Then the two old homes had to be made ready for the new owners. It seemed like years before we were ready to actually move in. I know it took about three months for the “new” house to be ready, but for us kids it was the longest wait we had ever experienced.
I can remember the Saturday we finally made the move. My Uncle was over for breakfast and in the back of his car was filled to the very top with boxes. We were so excited. I'm not sure what we thought would happen with this move. Did we expect to see some magic or something? To be honest with you, I don't remember being that excited before that day. Christmas didn't even come close. You can imagine how disappointed we were when we were told that we would not be there for the big move!
We were being sent to the movies! Instead of moving, we went to the movies! I'm sure someone out there has heard that saying,”Move while they are at the movies.” Well that is what happened to us. Our parents moved while we were at the movies! We all laugh about it now. But it was quite an experience.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Candle Lanterns
Candle lanterns are one of the safest ways to use a candle. You put a candle into a lantern, light it and you don’t have to worry about the wind, if you are outdoors, or the dog wagging his tail, if you are inside. And lanterns can be so stylish and decorative today. You can find just about any design or color to match you own taste, décor or mood. For your own safety and peace of mind, never leave the room when the candle is lit.
My favorite candle lantern is a white Moroccan lantern I got recently. I used it on the back porch during the summer with a citronella candle to help deter the bugs, and put just a little light on things. It is fancy, but not overly so, and it blends in nicely with the white wicker furniture we have. I can hang it up or set it on the table. It can be used either indoors or out. I really do love my white Moroccan lantern.
Lanterns are not a new idea. They have been around for centuries. In days long gone, before electric lights, lanterns and candles were the only source of light that people had. In movies and TV shows that take place in the “old west”, you can see them being carried out to the barns to check on the live stock, and used in the cabins to light up the room. It was usually more practical, and cheaper, for people to use candle lanterns than to use oil burning ones.
Back during the revolutionary war, it was considered a waste of material to use any good metal to make lanterns, that was needed to make guns and such. So back then, not to many people had good sturdy lanterns. And street lights when used, were usually buckets of pine pitch hanging from poles. They weren’t on every corner as we have today, just the busiest cross roads. So candle lanterns were very valuable and prized possessions.
Lanterns can have a bad rap though. They say it was Mrs. O’Leary’s cow who knocked over a lantern and started the Chicago fire. But I believe it was actually sparks from a chimney that started it. And besides, if a candle is contained in a lantern, the flame can’t come in contact with anything! Now I don’t recommend that try to start a fire by knocking a lantern over so please do not try it. But just think about it.
My favorite candle lantern is a white Moroccan lantern I got recently. I used it on the back porch during the summer with a citronella candle to help deter the bugs, and put just a little light on things. It is fancy, but not overly so, and it blends in nicely with the white wicker furniture we have. I can hang it up or set it on the table. It can be used either indoors or out. I really do love my white Moroccan lantern.
Lanterns are not a new idea. They have been around for centuries. In days long gone, before electric lights, lanterns and candles were the only source of light that people had. In movies and TV shows that take place in the “old west”, you can see them being carried out to the barns to check on the live stock, and used in the cabins to light up the room. It was usually more practical, and cheaper, for people to use candle lanterns than to use oil burning ones.
Back during the revolutionary war, it was considered a waste of material to use any good metal to make lanterns, that was needed to make guns and such. So back then, not to many people had good sturdy lanterns. And street lights when used, were usually buckets of pine pitch hanging from poles. They weren’t on every corner as we have today, just the busiest cross roads. So candle lanterns were very valuable and prized possessions.
Lanterns can have a bad rap though. They say it was Mrs. O’Leary’s cow who knocked over a lantern and started the Chicago fire. But I believe it was actually sparks from a chimney that started it. And besides, if a candle is contained in a lantern, the flame can’t come in contact with anything! Now I don’t recommend that try to start a fire by knocking a lantern over so please do not try it. But just think about it.
Friday, November 20, 2009
Wrought Iron Candle Holders
Wrought iron candle holders can be decorative while being very functional. They can be used both indoors and out. Whether you are trying to set a romantic mood or just trying to have some light when the electric goes out. They can blend into you décor, or they can stand out. The size of the candle and candle holder can make a very dramatic statement or be almost unnoticeable. You can get them in black or painted any color you wish. And cleaning is fairly easy. Wrought iron candle holders are very versatile and practical.
Candles and candle holders are almost a staple for anyone who is setting up a home, whether it is a first apartment or a house. And it doesn’t matter if you ever plan to light the candle or not. It seems a house is just not a home without candles and candle holders on display. Some people prefer to have them in the living room, while others like the bedroom or even the bathroom. It really doesn’t matter because candles go anywhere.
Wrought iron candle holders are slightly heaver than some other candle holders which makes them perfect for use outdoors. They don’t tip over as easily and are able to handle the temperature changes and higher humidity easier. Having wrought iron means you don’t have to worry about the candle burning all the way down and catching the candle holder on fire. So if you want to have them on the porch, or on the patio it really doesn’t matter.
If you would feel safer with a glass globe over the candle, don’t worry. Wrought iron candle holders look marvelous that way also. Whether you have mission style or modern, wrought iron candle holders will fit into any décor.
I happen to have several different pair myself. And like everyone else, my favorite pair depends on my mood at the time. But I do keep candle holders all over the house. Some have globes or chimneys and some don’t. Some are tall while others are short. Right now I am using a pair that is of Spanish mission styling. Not tall by any means, but not really short either. They are fancy, but not overly so. They don’t look out of place in our small country farm house. But they did fit in beautifully in our big house in the city.
Now that you know how I feel about wrought iron candle holders, let me say one more thing. Please do not leave any candles burning unattended. That is a big fire hazard just waiting to happen. No matter what kind of candle holder you use, or if it has a globe or chimney, accidents do happen.
Candles and candle holders are almost a staple for anyone who is setting up a home, whether it is a first apartment or a house. And it doesn’t matter if you ever plan to light the candle or not. It seems a house is just not a home without candles and candle holders on display. Some people prefer to have them in the living room, while others like the bedroom or even the bathroom. It really doesn’t matter because candles go anywhere.
Wrought iron candle holders are slightly heaver than some other candle holders which makes them perfect for use outdoors. They don’t tip over as easily and are able to handle the temperature changes and higher humidity easier. Having wrought iron means you don’t have to worry about the candle burning all the way down and catching the candle holder on fire. So if you want to have them on the porch, or on the patio it really doesn’t matter.
If you would feel safer with a glass globe over the candle, don’t worry. Wrought iron candle holders look marvelous that way also. Whether you have mission style or modern, wrought iron candle holders will fit into any décor.
I happen to have several different pair myself. And like everyone else, my favorite pair depends on my mood at the time. But I do keep candle holders all over the house. Some have globes or chimneys and some don’t. Some are tall while others are short. Right now I am using a pair that is of Spanish mission styling. Not tall by any means, but not really short either. They are fancy, but not overly so. They don’t look out of place in our small country farm house. But they did fit in beautifully in our big house in the city.
Now that you know how I feel about wrought iron candle holders, let me say one more thing. Please do not leave any candles burning unattended. That is a big fire hazard just waiting to happen. No matter what kind of candle holder you use, or if it has a globe or chimney, accidents do happen.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
The Beatle Concert
It wasn’t that long ago, only back in the 60’s. The Beatles were going to be in Philadelphia. How I wanted to go! But I couldn’t go get the tickets because I had to be in school. So I asked, really begged my Mother to go get me two tickets. She had no trouble with that, since I had the money and was gladly handing it over to her. Only thing Mom said was that both she and Dad would have to approve of who I was going to go with to the concert.
Don’t know how my Mother did it, but when I got home from school that day, she handed me my two tickets. And asked who I would be going with. I had no idea at that time so I just smiled and said that she would be happy to see the person who would using the other ticket.
Long story short…Night of the Beatle concert… The whole family is just finishing up eating dinner. My turn to clear the table, but my sisters turn to wash the dishes.
As I am all but taking plates before anyone is done eating, I’m asked by my Dad, “So who are you going with?” I have no idea! So I pretend not to hear. Then I get a great idea! Although, I think I was thinking it all along. I head into the closet after taking a load of dirty dishes into the kitchen. I hear my Mother voice asking who I was taking to the concert. I return from the closet with my jacket and my Mother’s coat and purse. Hand her things to her and say, “Come on, we can’t be late!” “But who is using the other ticket?” “You are! Lets go!” And I gently but excitedly start pulling Mom to the door.
Yes, I took my Mother to see the Beatles! It was the only way I could go and I knew it. That’s okay though. The concert was fantastic and I can relive it anytime I want to. I may not remember the date, but I remember the look on Mom’s face both before and after the concert. And I remember hearing her tell her friends about it. I think she was as excited as I was!
Mom and I may not have stayed together during the concert, she at our “seats”, and I was as close to the stage as you could get. Neither one of may have heard the words to any songs, but Mom bobbed to the beat and I screamed my lungs out. Mom may not have known my location, but I knew where she was. And that seemed to be fine with both of us.
When the concert was over, before the last note finished ringing, I had Mom by the hand and we were headed for the car. In my mad dash to beat traffic and hurry Mom along, I almost got hit by a car speeding away from the concert. Guess who was seated in the back of that limo? You got it; John, Paul, George and Ringo.
But we make it home safe and sound in time for the eleven o’clock news. Top story that night was the concert naturally. And believe it or not, you could hear one voice over all the others. Dad and Mom both said it was my voice. Maybe it was and maybe it wasn’t. All I know is that I had no voice for several days after that concert.
I wish my Mom was still with us, I miss her so. I would love to go to another concert with her.
Don’t know how my Mother did it, but when I got home from school that day, she handed me my two tickets. And asked who I would be going with. I had no idea at that time so I just smiled and said that she would be happy to see the person who would using the other ticket.
Long story short…Night of the Beatle concert… The whole family is just finishing up eating dinner. My turn to clear the table, but my sisters turn to wash the dishes.
As I am all but taking plates before anyone is done eating, I’m asked by my Dad, “So who are you going with?” I have no idea! So I pretend not to hear. Then I get a great idea! Although, I think I was thinking it all along. I head into the closet after taking a load of dirty dishes into the kitchen. I hear my Mother voice asking who I was taking to the concert. I return from the closet with my jacket and my Mother’s coat and purse. Hand her things to her and say, “Come on, we can’t be late!” “But who is using the other ticket?” “You are! Lets go!” And I gently but excitedly start pulling Mom to the door.
Yes, I took my Mother to see the Beatles! It was the only way I could go and I knew it. That’s okay though. The concert was fantastic and I can relive it anytime I want to. I may not remember the date, but I remember the look on Mom’s face both before and after the concert. And I remember hearing her tell her friends about it. I think she was as excited as I was!
Mom and I may not have stayed together during the concert, she at our “seats”, and I was as close to the stage as you could get. Neither one of may have heard the words to any songs, but Mom bobbed to the beat and I screamed my lungs out. Mom may not have known my location, but I knew where she was. And that seemed to be fine with both of us.
When the concert was over, before the last note finished ringing, I had Mom by the hand and we were headed for the car. In my mad dash to beat traffic and hurry Mom along, I almost got hit by a car speeding away from the concert. Guess who was seated in the back of that limo? You got it; John, Paul, George and Ringo.
But we make it home safe and sound in time for the eleven o’clock news. Top story that night was the concert naturally. And believe it or not, you could hear one voice over all the others. Dad and Mom both said it was my voice. Maybe it was and maybe it wasn’t. All I know is that I had no voice for several days after that concert.
I wish my Mom was still with us, I miss her so. I would love to go to another concert with her.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Holiday Stepping Stones
While looking around as my hubby was driving to the store, I saw the cutest holiday yard décor. Almost made me want to move back to the old house so I could delight all the neighbor hood kids. What got me excited? Stepping stones. Holiday stepping stones. Stepping stones that look like Christmas lights! In different colors no less.
You could tell that kids lived in the house, with all the toys scattered around outside. And I’ll bet those kids were thrilled to death when the saw those stepping stones. I could almost picture the kids. While Dad was hanging the lights outside, they were arguing as to where to but their stepping stones. I could picture the older kids wanting to put them where the grandparents and other relatives could use them. While the younger ones wanted to put them where Santa could use them, on the roof.
Later that day I got to thinking about those stepping stones. After all I do have grandkids, a great-grandson, and several great-nieces, all young enough to really enjoy those stepping stones. So as usual I did some hunting and pecking around on-line. And I found several sites that will tell you how to make your own stepping stones, and several more that sell some very nice stepping stones for the flower garden. But finding ready made novelty stepping stones is hard, unless you want to make them yourself.
It took a while, but I did find some just like the ones I saw. And as usual, I found a lot of other things also. I wrote all the other address down so I can go back and really check them out. But the stepping stones that I found can also be hung up on a wall! What a cleaver idea! Now instead of just walking on them, they can be wall art too. I’ll bet that kids really enjoy that. And probably some adults too.
Now I have nothing against making my own stepping stones. That can be a lot of fun. What am I saying! I know it is a lot of fun. Timing is very important though and in my section of the country, it isn’t really the best time to be playing in concrete. The weather is to unpredictable, with both the temperature and moisture. If you want to know how to make your own stepping stones, just type that into your search engine and half a million sites will appear for you to chose from.
But if you don’t have the time or the desire to make your own, you can search all you want and check out twenty million sites. But if you want a cute novelty set of holiday stepping stones, just check out the ones I found.
You could tell that kids lived in the house, with all the toys scattered around outside. And I’ll bet those kids were thrilled to death when the saw those stepping stones. I could almost picture the kids. While Dad was hanging the lights outside, they were arguing as to where to but their stepping stones. I could picture the older kids wanting to put them where the grandparents and other relatives could use them. While the younger ones wanted to put them where Santa could use them, on the roof.
Later that day I got to thinking about those stepping stones. After all I do have grandkids, a great-grandson, and several great-nieces, all young enough to really enjoy those stepping stones. So as usual I did some hunting and pecking around on-line. And I found several sites that will tell you how to make your own stepping stones, and several more that sell some very nice stepping stones for the flower garden. But finding ready made novelty stepping stones is hard, unless you want to make them yourself.
It took a while, but I did find some just like the ones I saw. And as usual, I found a lot of other things also. I wrote all the other address down so I can go back and really check them out. But the stepping stones that I found can also be hung up on a wall! What a cleaver idea! Now instead of just walking on them, they can be wall art too. I’ll bet that kids really enjoy that. And probably some adults too.
Now I have nothing against making my own stepping stones. That can be a lot of fun. What am I saying! I know it is a lot of fun. Timing is very important though and in my section of the country, it isn’t really the best time to be playing in concrete. The weather is to unpredictable, with both the temperature and moisture. If you want to know how to make your own stepping stones, just type that into your search engine and half a million sites will appear for you to chose from.
But if you don’t have the time or the desire to make your own, you can search all you want and check out twenty million sites. But if you want a cute novelty set of holiday stepping stones, just check out the ones I found.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Cookie Jars
I don’t know about others, but I have some very fond memories involving cookie jars. They just seem to bring a smile and loads of thoughts of the cookies I used to “sneak”. I can all but smell them baking and taste them now!
Growing up we had several different cookie jars. Ones we were not allowed to touch, and the one we could. I think everyone had at least one cookie jar that was kept on top of the refrigerator. That one was for looks, and would hold things that our Mothers didn’t want us to get hold of or know about.
The cookie jar that we were able to get hold of was one of Davy Crockett. I remember that cookie jar as if it was sitting in front of me. Don’t know what ever happened to it. But if that cookie jar could talk, I’m sure I’m not the only one in the family that would be in trouble. I did find a cookie jar in one of the many antique shops around here that was (or at least looked like) our Davy Crockett cookie jar. It cost over $700! I wish I had our old cookie jar.
Our one neighbors used to do a lot of ceramics. She had the clay ( I think that is what the stuff was called), the molds, a kiln, and tons of paints. She was really into ceramics. Mrs. Roberts taught my Mother how to do a lot of ceramic things. One of things Mrs. Roberts did make a lot of were cookie jars.
I always thought the Cow Cookie Jar was really neat and different and would be a great whatnot holder, if you didn‘t use it for cookies. And the Santa Claus one always make me hungry. It reminded me of sugar cookies and all the other holiday treats you can make. And that Santa Claus Cookie Jar that Mrs. Roberts made was classic and I always thought that if and when I ever got married, I would have one.
Of Corse that was back in the 50’s, I was just a kid then. But when I did get married and had kids, there was no need for a cookie jar. No cookie lasted longer than a day in my house. My kids are not now and have never been heavy or even close to it. But cookies never lasted long enough to really cool down if we made them.
To this day I still have a little thing for cookie jars. Must be the memories they stir up. And I still don’t own one. But that doesn’t stop me from looking at them. Or even thinking about them at times. And as usual, I found a really unique one. I don’t think to many people in the north east would appreciate it, unless they have spent time living in the south west. It is a Cactus Cookie Jar. To be more precise, a Holiday Cactus Cookie Jar. Its really cute! A green cactus with a red hat and Christmas lights on it.
Growing up we had several different cookie jars. Ones we were not allowed to touch, and the one we could. I think everyone had at least one cookie jar that was kept on top of the refrigerator. That one was for looks, and would hold things that our Mothers didn’t want us to get hold of or know about.
The cookie jar that we were able to get hold of was one of Davy Crockett. I remember that cookie jar as if it was sitting in front of me. Don’t know what ever happened to it. But if that cookie jar could talk, I’m sure I’m not the only one in the family that would be in trouble. I did find a cookie jar in one of the many antique shops around here that was (or at least looked like) our Davy Crockett cookie jar. It cost over $700! I wish I had our old cookie jar.
Our one neighbors used to do a lot of ceramics. She had the clay ( I think that is what the stuff was called), the molds, a kiln, and tons of paints. She was really into ceramics. Mrs. Roberts taught my Mother how to do a lot of ceramic things. One of things Mrs. Roberts did make a lot of were cookie jars.
I always thought the Cow Cookie Jar was really neat and different and would be a great whatnot holder, if you didn‘t use it for cookies. And the Santa Claus one always make me hungry. It reminded me of sugar cookies and all the other holiday treats you can make. And that Santa Claus Cookie Jar that Mrs. Roberts made was classic and I always thought that if and when I ever got married, I would have one.
Of Corse that was back in the 50’s, I was just a kid then. But when I did get married and had kids, there was no need for a cookie jar. No cookie lasted longer than a day in my house. My kids are not now and have never been heavy or even close to it. But cookies never lasted long enough to really cool down if we made them.
To this day I still have a little thing for cookie jars. Must be the memories they stir up. And I still don’t own one. But that doesn’t stop me from looking at them. Or even thinking about them at times. And as usual, I found a really unique one. I don’t think to many people in the north east would appreciate it, unless they have spent time living in the south west. It is a Cactus Cookie Jar. To be more precise, a Holiday Cactus Cookie Jar. Its really cute! A green cactus with a red hat and Christmas lights on it.
Monday, November 16, 2009
So Much More to Learn
I was asked recently why I seem to be “selling” things on-line. I see something I like or would like to have and I write about them. If a friend has the product and bought it on-line I get the address and pass it on. If the friend bought the item in a store, I hunt and peck my way around on-line until I find the exact same product and then I pass that address on. Why? Because I am trying to learn how things work on-line. And the only way I seem to be getting any answers is if I try to do it myself.
I have emailed questions to different “help” programs. And so far to date, I have not gotten one answer to any question. Try the library! I have. It seems that all the books out there on internet programs and help, are all written for the computer literate. Not one book that I have been able to place my grubby little hands on is in a language I can understand. And no, I haven’t been able to find the “For Dummies” books on the internet in any of the stores I’ve been to or at my local library. What “Dummies” books I have been able to find leave me tearing my hair out after two sentences!
I asked for help before and got no replies. So let me ask again in a different way. Does any one know of a book written by dummies for dummies about the internet and different internet programs? The cheaper the better, but at this point I will not be to picky.
I’m sure I have “links” down pat. And I am having a blast putting them in my posts. But I would like to try putting in a picture and don’t have a clue how. But you may not to see half the pictures I have and I may not want to show you the other half.
I have also figured out how to have two “windows” open at the same time. And how to go back and forth between them. I think that is called toggling, but I’m not sure. Poor hubby had to listen to me talk about that achievement for three days! Which was better then the one week talk about links he endured. And to think the dear man doesn’t even know how to turn on my computer!
I have learned how to fully back up everything on this machine. It took awhile, but I did it. Don’t know if it is right or not and I hope to never find out. The one crash I had since starting to blog didn’t require me to use those back up disks. Just a lot of cursing (and I do mean a lot!) and hunting, and pecking around till I got things back. In fact, that is when I started backing up all my “work” along with a full back up.
There is so much I would like to learn about. And I’m doing the best I can with what little I do know. But I would love to know and understand so much more.
I have emailed questions to different “help” programs. And so far to date, I have not gotten one answer to any question. Try the library! I have. It seems that all the books out there on internet programs and help, are all written for the computer literate. Not one book that I have been able to place my grubby little hands on is in a language I can understand. And no, I haven’t been able to find the “For Dummies” books on the internet in any of the stores I’ve been to or at my local library. What “Dummies” books I have been able to find leave me tearing my hair out after two sentences!
I asked for help before and got no replies. So let me ask again in a different way. Does any one know of a book written by dummies for dummies about the internet and different internet programs? The cheaper the better, but at this point I will not be to picky.
I’m sure I have “links” down pat. And I am having a blast putting them in my posts. But I would like to try putting in a picture and don’t have a clue how. But you may not to see half the pictures I have and I may not want to show you the other half.
I have also figured out how to have two “windows” open at the same time. And how to go back and forth between them. I think that is called toggling, but I’m not sure. Poor hubby had to listen to me talk about that achievement for three days! Which was better then the one week talk about links he endured. And to think the dear man doesn’t even know how to turn on my computer!
I have learned how to fully back up everything on this machine. It took awhile, but I did it. Don’t know if it is right or not and I hope to never find out. The one crash I had since starting to blog didn’t require me to use those back up disks. Just a lot of cursing (and I do mean a lot!) and hunting, and pecking around till I got things back. In fact, that is when I started backing up all my “work” along with a full back up.
There is so much I would like to learn about. And I’m doing the best I can with what little I do know. But I would love to know and understand so much more.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
A Mugaholics almost Perfect Mug
Now, you all know I’m a Phillies Phan. Yes, I am disappointed that we didn’t win the World Series. I watched every game. It was a hard pill to swallow, but the better team did win. And I congratulate the Yankees on their win.
Between games I was looking on line for some Phillies items. Thought they would be good Christmas presents. But since they didn’t go all the way this year, I decided that it just wouldn’t be right to give the gifts I was thinking about. Instead, I went looking for Yankee items. No, not for me to give, but I’m sure someone out there is a Yankee fan and would like to know where to look for something that is “Yankees”.
I have to be honest, I didn’t look to hard. It was hard for me not being a fan and all. Then too, my computer skills are getting better, but it still takes me for ever to do anything like that. But I really did look. And I found tons of sites that have jerseys, hats and tee shirts. You can find pictures, banners, flags and pennants. Not good enough I thought, you can get that in any store right about now. So I kept looking.
Then I found it. A coffee (or tea if you prefer) mug. But not just any mug. This one has that nostalgic look and feel to it. And the color! A beautiful, and I do mean a rich blue. Just looking at it makes me almost wish I was a Yankee fan. I have to confess, I really do love the look of that mug. Well, everything except the New York Yankee logo that is.
I will tell you right now, if it had a Phillie logo, I would have had my coffee in it this morning. But the Phillies color is red, and I am not really a red person. But I do love the color blue. And I guess that is why I like this mug so much, the color. Just look at it, and tell me that isn’t the most beautiful color blue mug you have ever seen. Okay, I know you have to click on the link and all, so do it and then tell me that is not a beautiful mug!
My hubby says I’m a mugaholic. I have more mugs than you can shake a stick at. When ever I go away on vacation, I buy a mug. Every time my Dad goes away, he brings me a mug. If I see a mug that really catches my eye and won’t let go, I get it. And I am having a hard time not getting this mug. But it is the Yankees and not the Phillies. And that is the only reason I’m not drinking out of it right now.
Between games I was looking on line for some Phillies items. Thought they would be good Christmas presents. But since they didn’t go all the way this year, I decided that it just wouldn’t be right to give the gifts I was thinking about. Instead, I went looking for Yankee items. No, not for me to give, but I’m sure someone out there is a Yankee fan and would like to know where to look for something that is “Yankees”.
I have to be honest, I didn’t look to hard. It was hard for me not being a fan and all. Then too, my computer skills are getting better, but it still takes me for ever to do anything like that. But I really did look. And I found tons of sites that have jerseys, hats and tee shirts. You can find pictures, banners, flags and pennants. Not good enough I thought, you can get that in any store right about now. So I kept looking.
Then I found it. A coffee (or tea if you prefer) mug. But not just any mug. This one has that nostalgic look and feel to it. And the color! A beautiful, and I do mean a rich blue. Just looking at it makes me almost wish I was a Yankee fan. I have to confess, I really do love the look of that mug. Well, everything except the New York Yankee logo that is.
I will tell you right now, if it had a Phillie logo, I would have had my coffee in it this morning. But the Phillies color is red, and I am not really a red person. But I do love the color blue. And I guess that is why I like this mug so much, the color. Just look at it, and tell me that isn’t the most beautiful color blue mug you have ever seen. Okay, I know you have to click on the link and all, so do it and then tell me that is not a beautiful mug!
My hubby says I’m a mugaholic. I have more mugs than you can shake a stick at. When ever I go away on vacation, I buy a mug. Every time my Dad goes away, he brings me a mug. If I see a mug that really catches my eye and won’t let go, I get it. And I am having a hard time not getting this mug. But it is the Yankees and not the Phillies. And that is the only reason I’m not drinking out of it right now.
Friday, November 13, 2009
Perfect Gift for my Nephew
I was playing around on-line and I found a Pittsburgh Steelers thermometer and a Steelers rain gauge. They are two different yard stakes, but they would be perfect for a Steelers fan. I happen to know someone who would love to have those yard stakes too. The only problem is that he lives in an apartment!
Around here, there seems to be a mixture of fans. Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington D.C., are the ones that people root for in football and baseball. And you had better know who is a fan of what team before you start talking any sports with them. People around here take their sports very, very seriously.
Now, the Steelers fan I know happens to a very nice kid (he happens to be my nephew). He was born and raised around the D.C. area, went to in college Pittsburgh, and now lives in Florida. Why this Virginia transplant is so crazy about the Steelers, I don’t know. But he is. And I love him to death (as I do all my nieces and nephews). But the Steelers? Okay, they did win the Super Bowl last year, so they have to be good, right?
If this good looking young man had a yard, I would get him those yard stakes. And once again I would be his favorite Aunt. But since he has no yard, only a balcony covered by the balcony above, they would be of little use to him. What a shame! With the thermometer, he would know how to dress, dark shorts or light colored ones. And with the rain gauge he would know whether or not he needed to get a boat, or just to water the lawn.
My hubby and I already have two outdoor thermometers and two rain gauges, so we couldn’t even begin to use them even if we were Steelers fans. My next best idea is to try and talk my brother and his wife into getting them so that my nephew could see them whenever he visits them. But they live in a town house and I don’t think they are permitted to have any yard décor like these yard stakes. Talking my Dad into getting them is out of the question, he roots for the other PA. football team.
Oh, nephew, I finally find the perfect gift for you and I can’t get it! I couldn’t find them for other teams, just yours. Why oh why can’t you be living in a house?
Around here, there seems to be a mixture of fans. Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington D.C., are the ones that people root for in football and baseball. And you had better know who is a fan of what team before you start talking any sports with them. People around here take their sports very, very seriously.
Now, the Steelers fan I know happens to a very nice kid (he happens to be my nephew). He was born and raised around the D.C. area, went to in college Pittsburgh, and now lives in Florida. Why this Virginia transplant is so crazy about the Steelers, I don’t know. But he is. And I love him to death (as I do all my nieces and nephews). But the Steelers? Okay, they did win the Super Bowl last year, so they have to be good, right?
If this good looking young man had a yard, I would get him those yard stakes. And once again I would be his favorite Aunt. But since he has no yard, only a balcony covered by the balcony above, they would be of little use to him. What a shame! With the thermometer, he would know how to dress, dark shorts or light colored ones. And with the rain gauge he would know whether or not he needed to get a boat, or just to water the lawn.
My hubby and I already have two outdoor thermometers and two rain gauges, so we couldn’t even begin to use them even if we were Steelers fans. My next best idea is to try and talk my brother and his wife into getting them so that my nephew could see them whenever he visits them. But they live in a town house and I don’t think they are permitted to have any yard décor like these yard stakes. Talking my Dad into getting them is out of the question, he roots for the other PA. football team.
Oh, nephew, I finally find the perfect gift for you and I can’t get it! I couldn’t find them for other teams, just yours. Why oh why can’t you be living in a house?
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Health Care
You will never guess what I did. I crashed my computer again. How, you ask? It is simple really. I tried to download the governments bill on health reform. At least I had back up disks so I could be up and running again in a relativity short time (12 hours). I should have know better then to “spy” on what our elected officials.
So I can’t get my hands on that bill that the Senate voted on. But I was able to get some information. I kind of wished I hadn’t. It scares me half to death to think about what they are going to do. I don’t mind that one of things tacked on to that bill will be tougher restriction on abortion. Don’t know how they will make it tougher, but they will. Which is okay with me. I mean, they pass out condoms to just about everyone now-a-days. And anyone can get an abortion. No reason is needed really. So fine, make it a little tougher. But I think that the government will make it harder for doctors and clinics’ to get any money.
That is good. Because this health reform is going to cost us, you and me the tax payer, over 1.2 trillion dollars. For them, the government, to come up with that kind of money a lot of other things will have to be cut out of the budgets. One thing that I was able to get from one government web site before my crash, was that there will be big cuts in Medicare. The number that I saw was $400 billion. I don’t know about anyone else, but that is scary. Our seniors have worked all there lives and paid into this for what? And what help will I be able to get when my time comes?
I also heard on the radio that there would be cuts to the V.A. How dare they cut any of those benefits! Those veterans were willing to put their lives on the line for this country, whether they enlisted or were drafted. They all did a very valuable service for this country, and now there benefits will be cut? That is so wrong.
Let me tell you what else I did find. All persons will have to have medical insurance. And large companies will have to offer it to their employee. If not you will be slapped with “penalties”. Now to me, a penalty is a fine that must be paid or else you go to jail. Of Corse, the government will subsidize the payments for those unable to come up with the money for their premiums. That sounds like half of the population right now. Do our elected officials really believe that people don’t have medical insurance by choice? If I could afford it, I’d have it.
The bill also states that it will be illegal for insurance companies to deny coverage because you have hit you limit. Which is good. But then it also makes it illegal to charge a higher premium for a pre-existing condition. And that is also good I believe. I know when I did have medical insurance the premiums were so high that I couldn’t afford to go to the doctor. So meeting my deductible was impossible.
An article I read somewhere on line while trying to find that health reform bill said that the “public option” would be more expensive than getting insurance through a regular company. That also has a good side and a bad side. The good first, your premiums will never raise. They, the government, can however call it a cost of living increase to get you to pay more. And the bad? The government writes the policy. Just one policy for everyone. The government will decide what benefits we should have. No custom policies or benefits for anyone, unless you go with a private company.
To my untrained ear, this sounds worse than social medicine policies that some other countries have.
So I can’t get my hands on that bill that the Senate voted on. But I was able to get some information. I kind of wished I hadn’t. It scares me half to death to think about what they are going to do. I don’t mind that one of things tacked on to that bill will be tougher restriction on abortion. Don’t know how they will make it tougher, but they will. Which is okay with me. I mean, they pass out condoms to just about everyone now-a-days. And anyone can get an abortion. No reason is needed really. So fine, make it a little tougher. But I think that the government will make it harder for doctors and clinics’ to get any money.
That is good. Because this health reform is going to cost us, you and me the tax payer, over 1.2 trillion dollars. For them, the government, to come up with that kind of money a lot of other things will have to be cut out of the budgets. One thing that I was able to get from one government web site before my crash, was that there will be big cuts in Medicare. The number that I saw was $400 billion. I don’t know about anyone else, but that is scary. Our seniors have worked all there lives and paid into this for what? And what help will I be able to get when my time comes?
I also heard on the radio that there would be cuts to the V.A. How dare they cut any of those benefits! Those veterans were willing to put their lives on the line for this country, whether they enlisted or were drafted. They all did a very valuable service for this country, and now there benefits will be cut? That is so wrong.
Let me tell you what else I did find. All persons will have to have medical insurance. And large companies will have to offer it to their employee. If not you will be slapped with “penalties”. Now to me, a penalty is a fine that must be paid or else you go to jail. Of Corse, the government will subsidize the payments for those unable to come up with the money for their premiums. That sounds like half of the population right now. Do our elected officials really believe that people don’t have medical insurance by choice? If I could afford it, I’d have it.
The bill also states that it will be illegal for insurance companies to deny coverage because you have hit you limit. Which is good. But then it also makes it illegal to charge a higher premium for a pre-existing condition. And that is also good I believe. I know when I did have medical insurance the premiums were so high that I couldn’t afford to go to the doctor. So meeting my deductible was impossible.
An article I read somewhere on line while trying to find that health reform bill said that the “public option” would be more expensive than getting insurance through a regular company. That also has a good side and a bad side. The good first, your premiums will never raise. They, the government, can however call it a cost of living increase to get you to pay more. And the bad? The government writes the policy. Just one policy for everyone. The government will decide what benefits we should have. No custom policies or benefits for anyone, unless you go with a private company.
To my untrained ear, this sounds worse than social medicine policies that some other countries have.
Friday, November 6, 2009
Our Barska Binoculars
When my husband and I moved to the country, we decided that we need a new pair of binoculars. Just one pair wasn’t cutting it for us. So we started looking, hunting would be a better word for it. It took a while, but we finally found a pair that both of us liked. And they fit very nicely on our old camera tripod so I have no trouble when my arthritic joints are acting up and I have trouble holding a piece of paper.
Barska binoculars are an excellent value for your money in my opinion. We got more bang for our buck and a much better view of all the wildlife that passes through our back yard and our woods. I’m sure they have some form of image stabled built in because the image I see doesn’t “shake” at all even when I not using the tripod.
As birding binoculars, they are fantastic. We are now naming different species of sparrows, and noticing different markings on the robins’ breast. Naturally, our bird identification books are always close by to help us. No longer do we argue over what the bird is thanks to our Barska binoculars.
Binoculars have become a very important part of our décor. We have several pairs in different places, just incase. Since we left the city life, we have discovered the true beauty of nature. The wildlife on the hill side, the birds flying over head and even the activity of the dragon flies. We would not see half of it if not for binoculars.
If you are interested in any form of wildlife, you need a good pair of binoculars. My father always keeps a pair in his car. So do I , and my son does also. You never know when you will need them. The Barska binoculars we have are not compact binoculars. But they are ideal for birding watching, hunting, or just enjoying the wildlife of the area.
Barska binoculars are an excellent value for your money in my opinion. We got more bang for our buck and a much better view of all the wildlife that passes through our back yard and our woods. I’m sure they have some form of image stabled built in because the image I see doesn’t “shake” at all even when I not using the tripod.
As birding binoculars, they are fantastic. We are now naming different species of sparrows, and noticing different markings on the robins’ breast. Naturally, our bird identification books are always close by to help us. No longer do we argue over what the bird is thanks to our Barska binoculars.
Binoculars have become a very important part of our décor. We have several pairs in different places, just incase. Since we left the city life, we have discovered the true beauty of nature. The wildlife on the hill side, the birds flying over head and even the activity of the dragon flies. We would not see half of it if not for binoculars.
If you are interested in any form of wildlife, you need a good pair of binoculars. My father always keeps a pair in his car. So do I , and my son does also. You never know when you will need them. The Barska binoculars we have are not compact binoculars. But they are ideal for birding watching, hunting, or just enjoying the wildlife of the area.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Stimulus and Bailouts
I don’t know about anyone else, but the “stimulus package” is a big joke. All I have seen it do is give the people with the big paychecks a bonus, and cost me more money. How many people do you know personally, that it has helped? Has it put anyone you know back to work full time? Has it helped anyone you know from losing their home? The only people I have seen it “put back to work” are the road crews and they are never completely out of work anyway. Lets face it, fixing the roads will take place no matter what. So who benefits? Not you, because you are the one who is stuck in traffic, and using up all your time and gas to go nowhere in a real big hurry.
From where I sit, it will only cost me more money I don’t have. My taxes will go sky high, and the chance of me finding a job is getting farther and father away. To pay for all the “bail outs” you know everyone’s taxes will become unbelievable high. Everyone that is except for the very rich. They have all the loop holes to help them keep their big houses and fancy cars. Where us little people have nothing to protect us. We are the ones who will be paying the most. And we all know who benefit’s the most there.
Incase you don’t pay attention, the unemployment numbers are going down. But those numbers are based only on the number of people who can collect unemployment. They have nothing to do with the self employed, the part time workers, the seasonal workers, or those whose unemployment benefits have run out. And there are a lot of people who do not qualify for unemployment benefits. And who benefits from leaving out half the unemployed in the statistics? Not the little guy.
The contractors who do all the little jobs, and some not so little jobs, for all of us who can’t do it ourselves, they are self employed. And most of them are out of work because of the economy. Or the new laws requiring them to be licensed to continue to be able to work has forced them out of work. And that is not because they were no good at their jobs, but because it is to expensive to get the license. Did you know that in some places it is illegal for a contractor to do any kind of repair work unless he is licensed? Who benefits from that? Not the little guy that’s for sure.
And with the economy the way it is, I’ll bet you know a lot of people who have taken a cut in pay. At least those who do take the cut are trying to do something. Or are they? A lot of companies are trying to make it mandatory. They say that they are trying to keep people working and keep there product prices low so that people can buy it. Are they really? We hear a lot about pay cuts for the working stiff. But what about the big wigs in those companies? Have they “down sized” their lifestyle, or tightened their belts?
So tell me, who is benefiting from the “bail outs” and the “stimulus package”?
From where I sit, it will only cost me more money I don’t have. My taxes will go sky high, and the chance of me finding a job is getting farther and father away. To pay for all the “bail outs” you know everyone’s taxes will become unbelievable high. Everyone that is except for the very rich. They have all the loop holes to help them keep their big houses and fancy cars. Where us little people have nothing to protect us. We are the ones who will be paying the most. And we all know who benefit’s the most there.
Incase you don’t pay attention, the unemployment numbers are going down. But those numbers are based only on the number of people who can collect unemployment. They have nothing to do with the self employed, the part time workers, the seasonal workers, or those whose unemployment benefits have run out. And there are a lot of people who do not qualify for unemployment benefits. And who benefits from leaving out half the unemployed in the statistics? Not the little guy.
The contractors who do all the little jobs, and some not so little jobs, for all of us who can’t do it ourselves, they are self employed. And most of them are out of work because of the economy. Or the new laws requiring them to be licensed to continue to be able to work has forced them out of work. And that is not because they were no good at their jobs, but because it is to expensive to get the license. Did you know that in some places it is illegal for a contractor to do any kind of repair work unless he is licensed? Who benefits from that? Not the little guy that’s for sure.
And with the economy the way it is, I’ll bet you know a lot of people who have taken a cut in pay. At least those who do take the cut are trying to do something. Or are they? A lot of companies are trying to make it mandatory. They say that they are trying to keep people working and keep there product prices low so that people can buy it. Are they really? We hear a lot about pay cuts for the working stiff. But what about the big wigs in those companies? Have they “down sized” their lifestyle, or tightened their belts?
So tell me, who is benefiting from the “bail outs” and the “stimulus package”?
Monday, November 2, 2009
Hand Cranked Radios
When I lived in the south, I discovered how important a radio could be. We had a few hurricane scares and several tropical storms that did “hit” our area. In New Orleans, you are never above water level and just an inch of rain can cause flooding. And believe it or not, Houston isn’t much better at times.
Just after one tropical storm, all the batteries were being used in our one flash light, so there were none for the portable radio. If I had had a hand cranked radio I would have know that the worst was over and to just stay put, the water levels were going down. Since we had no electricity and the kids school was across the street, I knew that was closed. But I had no way of knowing what was happening in the surrounding area. My husband was at work, and I couldn’t help but worry if that area was hit harder than we were or had they been spared. And our neighbors were in the same boat as I was.
If I had known then what I know now, I would have been better prepared. But hind sight is 20/20. So now I keep an emergency kit ready at all times. Two hand cranked radios, one flash light with two sets of batteries, three candles, matches, the usual first aid kit, blankets, water, and a can opener. And it is all kept together in a plastic tub. I check it, and change the batteries twice a year and it is never put in the basement or the attic.
Why two hand cranked radios? Simple, one person can be listening to the emergency broadcast station while the other is listening to the local news and weather. That way you know exactly what is going on in the area. And the hand cranked radios today, do not need that much cranking for them to work. And I have found the younger children will all but fight over who gets to crank the hand cranked radio.
Today, you can find hand cranked radios almost anyplace. They are portable radios not much larger than most wallets. I have seen some that are just AM, and some that are just FM. I prefer the AM/FM hand cranked radios, you have a much better chance of picking up a radio station no matter where you are.
Hand cranked radios should not be considered just emergency radios. They are great to have whenever you are away from an electrical source. Take it hiking or camping. You never know when the weather may change and you will need to know what to expect from dear Mother Nature to keep yourself and those with you safe.
Just after one tropical storm, all the batteries were being used in our one flash light, so there were none for the portable radio. If I had had a hand cranked radio I would have know that the worst was over and to just stay put, the water levels were going down. Since we had no electricity and the kids school was across the street, I knew that was closed. But I had no way of knowing what was happening in the surrounding area. My husband was at work, and I couldn’t help but worry if that area was hit harder than we were or had they been spared. And our neighbors were in the same boat as I was.
If I had known then what I know now, I would have been better prepared. But hind sight is 20/20. So now I keep an emergency kit ready at all times. Two hand cranked radios, one flash light with two sets of batteries, three candles, matches, the usual first aid kit, blankets, water, and a can opener. And it is all kept together in a plastic tub. I check it, and change the batteries twice a year and it is never put in the basement or the attic.
Why two hand cranked radios? Simple, one person can be listening to the emergency broadcast station while the other is listening to the local news and weather. That way you know exactly what is going on in the area. And the hand cranked radios today, do not need that much cranking for them to work. And I have found the younger children will all but fight over who gets to crank the hand cranked radio.
Today, you can find hand cranked radios almost anyplace. They are portable radios not much larger than most wallets. I have seen some that are just AM, and some that are just FM. I prefer the AM/FM hand cranked radios, you have a much better chance of picking up a radio station no matter where you are.
Hand cranked radios should not be considered just emergency radios. They are great to have whenever you are away from an electrical source. Take it hiking or camping. You never know when the weather may change and you will need to know what to expect from dear Mother Nature to keep yourself and those with you safe.
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