Simply Michele

Saint Therese in death

2012-02-12T17:23:00.001-08:00

Sunday Silence

2012-02-12T16:28:00.000-08:00

Immortalization gripe

2012-02-12T07:16:00.000-08:00

While its ok to pray for the repose of someone's soul, its not ok to immortalize them. As in, making them god-like. I disrespect media when they immortalize people like they do when a singer or actor, etc passes. Remember, they are human like we are. Even the great Saints don't want to be immortalized, and worshipped. Worship belongs to God alone.

God specifically says in His Holy Word, the Bible, that worship belongs to Him, and Him alone. Perhaps those in the media should take a long hard look at that fact before they bombard my life with excessive hero worship of someone who is only human, and NOT God. I don't mind switching the channel when this happens, or even shutting off the tv.

It passes like all other things. Its ok to pay a tribute to someone, but not to call them god-like, or above all others. Only God is above all. Please, remember that. Thank you.

My hero is God. He is the only one that I worship. Please, let Whitney rest in peace, and don't immortalize her, and worship her like she is a god. Because she is not. She was a great singer, and I am sure she will be missed. But leave the worship up to God. Go on with your life. Praise Him who is above ALL things. Leave it at that.

No matter what version of the Bible you use, the message is always the same:

New International Version
Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.'"

New Living Translation
Jesus replied, "The Scriptures say, 'You must worship the LORD your God and serve only him.'"

English Standard Version

And Jesus answered him, “It is written, “‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and him only shall you serve.’”

New American Standard Bible
Jesus answered him, "It is written, 'YOU SHALL WORSHIP THE LORD YOUR GOD AND SERVE HIM ONLY.'"

King James Bible (Cambridge Ed.)
And Jesus answered and said unto him, Get thee behind me, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.

International Standard Version
But Jesus answered him, "It is written, 'You must worship the Lord your God and serve only him.'"

Aramaic Bible in Plain English
Yeshua answered and said to him, “It is written: 'you shall worship THE LORD JEHOVAH your God, and him only you shall serve.' “

GOD'S WORD® Translation
Jesus answered him, "Scripture says, 'Worship the Lord your God and serve only him.'"

King James 2000 Bible
And Jesus answered and said unto him, Get you behind me, Satan: for it is written, You shall worship the Lord your God, and him only shall you serve.

American King James Version
And Jesus answered and said to him, Get you behind me, Satan: for it is written, You shall worship the Lord your God, and him only shall you serve.

American Standard Version
And Jesus answered and said unto him, It is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.

Douay-Rheims Bible
And Jesus answering said to him: It is written: Thou shalt adore the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.

2 more famous die this week

2012-02-11T17:50:00.001-08:00

Actor, Peter Breck from Big Valley, and today, Whitney Houston. May God grant them eternal rest.

Transformers - Dark of the moon

2012-02-10T10:53:00.000-08:00

Autobot - "Bumblebee"

If you're like me, and like sci-fi movies packed with action, then Transformers Dark of the moon is an excellent movie for you. I rate this 5 of 5 stars. Excellent movie.

All we need is love, right?

2012-02-08T14:58:00.000-08:00

For you.

Think of this, what if the whole world stopped fighting, be it in wars, or at home, or wherever, and just loved. Then think, if that were for love of God, what do you think the world would be like? Would there be hate? Would there be crime? Would there be war? Would there be killing? Would there be lying?

Obviously not. Love motivated for God fills our lives and makes them complete. If we truly lived for God, and not ourselves, we'd be motivated to love one another as He has loved us. (Christ's own words)

Can you imagine a world of peace? Not right now right? With all the hate and killing, and greed and crime. Pretty hard to imagine isn't it? You might even think right now that peace and love will never be known amongst our fellow man right?

Well, I have good news for you. Jesus is peace, and He is love. His sacrifice upon the Cross was an act of love. True love. If you remember that in your daily life, and spread that word to all those you meet in your travels, perhaps you might be able to draw that soul to Christ. Now how hard is that?

Also remember, that when Christ returns in glory with all His angels, there will be eternal peace. There will be no more death, no more crying, no more crime, no more hate, no more wars, and no more sickness and hunger or pain and suffering. It will all end forever when Jesus returns in glory. Until then, live your life for God, and God alone. Put away the hate, the greed, the anger, and simply love. It is what God commanded.

Your reward will be great indeed. This world is passing away, and all the evil in it. You, you cling to Christ, and you live for Christ, and do good to your fellow man, and you will live forever with Christ the King.

Iam going to recommend to you, Divine Mercy in my soul by Saint Faustina, and also, Story of a Soul by Saint Therese. These are 2 Saints who truly understood the meaning of love, and how to love God, and walk with God through all their trials, and sufferings. They are excellent role models for any Christian in their walk with Jesus.

Syrian activist says that the whole world is to blame

2012-02-07T10:27:00.000-08:00

Even children? How are they to blame for the violence? When he says the whole world, he is including children in that statement. How are any of us to blame? I pray for the violence to end, but again, how is the entire world to blame? The violence is on the shoulders of the tyranical leader of Syria. But how can children and people not even living in Syria, and handicapped people be to blame? Little overboard there isn't it?

While yes, I agree governments need to put a stop to the violence, I don't see how blaming every person on earth for the violence is going to stop it. The world as a whole is not to blame. The Syrian leader and those he directs to kill are to blame. But innocent children and men and women, and handicapped people are not to blame. It is time to stop the violence, but lay the blame where it really belongs, and not on innocent people.

I pray for everyone in Syria. I pray that the dictator there is ousted. Time for peace.

Dental update on Frank

2012-02-06T08:16:00.000-08:00

As you know, Frank had some heavy dental work done on the weekend. Unfortunately, he has a great deal of swelling on his lower left side of his face. I'll have to call his dentist and update him. Its a good thing Frank was sedated!

The more time that goes by, the better. He has been applying ice to his cheek
3 times a day to help with the swelling. Hopefully, it is less today. I'll see when he gets home from work. He told me he does not remember much from the visit. (Iam glad he doesn't after everything I saw)

He was still out of it a bit yesterday. (his pain medication) I spoiled him rotten believe me. :D Please pray that he makes a speedy recovery, and that the swelling goes down. Thanks!

"I deserve a second term"...

2012-02-06T07:46:00.001-08:00

Ummm no, Mr. O, you don't. Enough said.

Acting like a complete idiot

2012-02-06T04:08:00.000-08:00

CENSORED. (MIA acting like a moron)

So called "star", "MIA" (ridiculous name) made a rude gesture at half time show of the superbowl. (she also said about it, "I don't give a s**t) "MIA" flipped the bird, Honestly, do they think this is appropriate conduct for kids to see? You think kids don't watch football with their dad and mom?

Good grief. Seriously, does she think that having tons of money gives her the right to act like an utter idiot? Apparently. Ask me, I think this sets a terrible example for all kids. Next time networks, CENSORE that kind of crap please! The world is degraded and morally bankrupt enough. An idiot is an idiot, and "MIA" is that idiot.

2 dental visits and new glasses

2012-02-04T17:22:00.000-08:00

This photo of me is from January 25th. I had just gotten new glasses. (plus a very difficult partial root canal, and filling)

The other photo is from today. Poor Frank! He was still pretty out of it after the heavy sedation he got at 9am this morning. Frank had 3 teeth extracted, and 2 fillings all on the upper left side of the mouth. One of the extracted teeth was huge wisdom tooth. He had a great deal rot in it.

The dentist had a very difficult time extracting one of Frank's front teeth because the root was really deep, and the tooth split in 4 pieces. Frank bled quite a bit. Poor guy. I had to be there for the whole thing. He did not want to be by himself.

I also had to be there as well because he was heavily sedated. They needed someone to be with him to take him home. We took the bus home. Frank went right to sleep shortly after we got home. He is awake now. and in some pain. I went back out to fill a prescription on pain killers, and anti biotics for him. I was out for a total of 8 hours. I am kinda growly about being out so long because my back hurts bad. Oh well. He will be a happy man when he is all better:)

Next visit for him is one extraction on lower right side, and some filling or root canal on upper right side, and he is done. Not me though. I got a heck of a lot more dental work to go yet. I can't wait til its done!

Birthday cards, and Chantilly perfume

2012-02-03T18:37:00.000-08:00

These are cards I got from my sisters, my brother and his wife, Frank, and my daughter :) The Chantilly perfume is from my Frank:) I haven't worn it in 32 years! Its just as beautiful as I remembered it:) From Shirley, I got 2 oils, and a Saint Therese necklace, as well as a prayer card, and an organizer:) Thanks also to my sister, PMG who gave me a Saint Michael prayer card. It was a lovely day!

46 today :D

2012-02-03T07:27:00.000-08:00

This is a Black Forest Cake. Frank bought me one for my 46th birthday:)
Today is also the feast of Saint Blaise. If you can have your throat blessed today, then do it :) I hope you all have a great day!

Will he, or wont he?

2012-02-02T05:16:00.000-08:00

Predict an early spring? I hope so! :D Its Groundhog Day in Canada :D I'll keep ya posted on whether or not the groundhog sees his shadow or not :D

Update: In Nova Scotia, early spring. Here in BC, we don't have a groundhog, so I went outside and didn't see my shadow:D So we will hopefully have an early spring:D

Err yeah...

2012-02-01T16:25:00.001-08:00

Joke. Didn't work. Thought as much. So, what's the good news? I got 2 more teeth fixed!

Ah, sure Mr. Romney...

2012-02-01T05:18:00.000-08:00

"Iam not concerned about the very poor" He says. According to him, his campaign is only concerned about the middle class. "We have safety nets for the poor". DUDE you HAVE to CARE about the very poor! DUH!

Your so called "safety nets" don't ensure that the poor get adequate housing does it? NO. Does your "safety net" include health care for the very poor? Food? You're so rich Romney that you overlook the poor and suffering in America. What a callous thing for this candidate to say! He SHOULD be concerned about EVERY American! Especially the poor!

I can believe he said it. Yes, I can. Rich like him don't give a crap about the poor. Is he only focused on middle class because they contribute financially to society, and the very poor can't? WAKE UP DUDE! If you HELPED the very poor then they would be ABLE to work, and be more able to contribute!

Selfish, selfish, man! Shame on you DUDE! Do you Americans really want this guy for president? Vote for Santorum! As a Catholic he DOES care about the poor! But you really want that self centered man for president? Bah. He reminds me of Bush who never gave a crap about the poor.

Santorum is the only REAL conservative in the presidential race. I think he cares for ALL Americans! Wake up America, watch who you vote for!

Michele's kitten diary - month 7

2012-01-31T05:58:00.000-08:00

Ok , so I did alot of research this morning on how to get my cat to stop chewing on Frank's headsets ( he forgets sometimes, and leaves them out) and power cords, etc. The one solution I am going to try is the hot pepper and vinegar solution.

You mix the pepper and vinegar together, and rub it on cords, and things you don't want chewed. For instance, I obviously can't put away the tv cord, or the lamp cord. I tried the tin foil wrap on the cords. Useless. She chewed right through them.

She also scratches my furniture to bits. Bitter apple does not work with this cat. She completely ignores it. So, pepper it is. We give her tons of play time and chewy toys. But, no good. Tonight when I go grocery shopping, I am buying a jalapeno pepper and some vinegar.

I hope that works. Otherwise, she'll have to be kenneled at night, and constantly monitored as usual during the day, and kenneled when I go out. The vet told me all her teeth are healthy and no diseased gum. This is the first cat I have ever owned who has a serious chewing problem.

Here is a list of things she chews:

My faux fur purse
Christmas tree
Cords
Shoe laces
Blankets with fringes on them
Zippers
Cardboard
Paper
Plastic bags
Headphone sets
Computer cables
Wire baskets
Couch and arm chair stuffing
Mattress stuffing

If the jalapeno mix doesn't work, well, I guess I am at a loss as to how to solve it. I thought she'd outgrow it, but I was mistaken. Spray bottles don't work either. 1 min later and she is right back at it. Suffice it to say, she is very frustrating. I do not leave things out. Nothing. These are items she has chewed over the last 7 months.

No amount of play stops her or distracts her. Even her brother did this. Likely, he still is. Its been a problem since I got her in July. I have to unplug all the cables at night. Still, that does not stop her at all. I might wake up one day and find my tv cord completely severed. Sigh.. I suppose the kennel idea is not such a bad idea after all.

I hope the pepper mix works! (probably not)

Mindful Monday

2012-01-30T11:05:00.001-08:00

"You know well enough that Our Lord does not look so much at the greatness of our actions, nor even at their difficulty, but at the love at which we do them" - Saint Therese

Going in a different direction

2012-01-29T14:47:00.000-08:00

A lot of things for me are changing this year. One of them is this blog. The posts, the content, the photos, all of it is changing. You'll just have to stay tuned now wont you?

A clearer, better understanding

2012-01-27T09:41:00.000-08:00

I re-read the book of Genesis for last few weeks. Its much clearer to me about man, and how truly ungrateful he has been to God. The Israelites whined and grumbled alot on their exodus from Egypt. They made a false idol, groaned and complained about water and so forth.

They never had to ask for anything! It was all completely provided to them. Yet, acting utterly thankless towards God, they groan, and worshipped a false idol. Man today is no better. We act thanklessly towards God. We do things to disappoint Him continuously.

If it weren't for the sacrifice of Christ, perhaps we'd all be in hell. (not that alot of man doesn't deserve to be there anyways with all the rotten stuff they do, but that is not up to me)

If you have really read the Bible thoroughly, you'd see the almost constant disappointment that man brought to God. You'd think that they'd be exceptionally grateful considering they even had the privilege back then to see Christ, and to hear God's message through angels. But were they truly?

Some were. But, since Israelites rejected God, and rejected Jesus, they lost their favored standing with Him as His chosen people. Why anyone would deliberately reject God, or Christ, is beyond me. I never had the privilege of seeing Jesus, nor did I ever get to hear God's message through His angels.

Yet, I love Him intensely. I have never seen Him, nor heard Him. Yet, I do not reject Him. So, you tell me, why would the people that He chose reject Him, or His son? Was it because of satan that they rejected God?

Seriously, if Christ were to return today, in the clouds in glory with all His angels, how many would reject Him still? Millions? Billions? Perhaps. If they did, they'd all be fools. The simple truth is is, if you reject Jesus, you reject God. And if you do not change, well, then your eternal destination might be hell. Something to think about now isn't it? Indeed.

Happy belated birthday..

2012-01-22T16:00:00.001-08:00

To Saint Therese! Her birthday was January 2sd. She is my saint for 2012.

Bullying

2012-01-18T08:31:00.000-08:00

I have said it before, and I'll say it again! Bullying has to stop! This morning, a person in a forum that I don't even know (I was friends with his wife for 2 years) decided he would try to get under my skin by trying to humiliate me, and get my anger going.

Did he succeed? Yes, he did. I tore a strip off him really good. Frank was unhappy, and he stood by me. I terminated the friendship with his wife. We no longer speak to these people.

Anytime you deliberately try to hurt someone, it is bullying. Picking on a person, trying to humiliate them, publicly laughing at them, its all bullying.
I am not like some folk. I bite back. I can bite believe me. Frank took this guy aside and had a man to man talk with him, and asked him why he did it.

He said he wanted to get a rise out of me, even if he made me the butt of a joke. He doesn't even feel bad about it. Frank told him that the friendship of 2 years is over. I have been bullied my entire life. By people I thought were friends, and by people that were classmates.

There is NO excuse to bully ANY individual. NONE!!! Bullies often pick on people who are poor, or inclined to being nice mannered or, quiet tempered. Why? Because they lack the quality of compassion for others. They do it to get attention. They think it makes them "popular" or because they are just mean spirited.

They also couldn't care less who they hurt. (if they have an inner conscience they will) I never used to stand up to bullies because I was too terrified to do so. I never stood up for myself. But believe me, I do now. When I bite back, they often act all shocked, and taken aback. Well, too bad.

I wont let anyone bully me anymore! I will stand up for myself! Darn right! I am not the cowering little scaired kid I used to be. I don't run away anymore.
I wont let anyone, and I mean anyone try to diminish me, or humiliate me, or try to make me feel worthless as a human being.

I do not condone violence of any sort. When I say I bite, I mean to say that I don't cut them down, or show any sort of temper. I do it by telling them they are mean spirited, and their actions are despicable. I also tell them that they are not worth wasting my time on anymore. That they obviously do not know how to treat people as human beings, so they are not worth anyones time or effort.

This all could have been avoided. You really have to know who it is you befriend these days. Sad thing is, Frank and I thought we knew these people. When in fact, we really didn't even know them at all. Frank just stated in his simplistic way of dealing with things, " they are both a waste of time, and we move on". He said it, he means it. He never looks back. So I don't either.

When I cut someone out of my life, I do it for good. I don't waste my time on losers. I'll pray for that guy and his wife. They cannot proclaim themselves Christians and proclaim they follow Jesus when in fact they are doing the very opposite of what He commanded, "do unto others as you'd have them do unto you", and, " love thy neighbor as thyself".

As my dear mother used to say, shake the dust off your feet, and don't look back. I am not looking back mom. I will keep right on moving.

Birthday tributes

2012-01-17T08:16:00.000-08:00

Happy 90th birthday to Betty White :)

Happy 70th birthday to Muhammad Ali! :)

Time out

2012-01-12T17:01:00.000-08:00

Hi readers,

I'll be taking time out of my blogging for some personal reasons. I hope you all have a wonderful winter! Again, happy new year!

My birthday gift

2012-01-10T09:05:00.000-08:00

This is my birthday gift :D I heard a ukulele group not far from where I live. I will join the group once I learn how to play one:D From my research, and watching lessons on Youtube, I think its easy to play! I love the sound of the soprano ukulele. I can't wait to play Hawaiian music on it! :)

Have you chosen a Saint yet for 2012?

2012-01-09T07:05:00.000-08:00

I have. Mine is as you see here, Saint Therese. If you want to find yourself a Saint, you can go to Dymphna's Well and click on the Saint name generator.
I adore Saint Therese. I appreciate all that she struggled with in her earthly life. She was a very candid, forthcoming individual, and absloutely no nonsense type of person.

Her love for Jesus is absolute. As well as her love for the Blessed Virgin. Saint Therese is also a Doctor of the Church. To know more about God's wonderful Saint, simply Google. The 2 Saints in the Church that I totally identify with are Saint Therese, and Saint Bernadette. When you read and study about the great Saints, you truly enrich your life, and you become more spiritual. Its really easy to have them as a positive force and model in your daily life as you walk with Christ towards your eternal goal.

Go to Dymphna's Well today and find a Saint to help you in your walk with Christ for 2012!

Mhmm... yeah

2012-01-08T06:52:00.000-08:00

Umm mom, if you're wondering why my water dish is so far away.. well, don't put it next to my food:D Otherwise, it gets all sloppy on the floor, and might I add, that its fun to play with? :D

Too early to tell yet..

2012-01-06T13:46:00.001-08:00

But, I have a sneaking suspicion that Mitt Romney will be the next US president. (unless some bad press comes his way, I think he has it) There aint no way on God's earth that Mr. O will get re-elected. Aint happenin'.

Another tooth done

2012-01-04T17:12:00.000-08:00

Praise God, another of my teeth has been fixed! This time, the far lower back right molar. Was a huge filling. I wouldn't let him use that horrid silver amalgam. He used white instead. Took him about an hour. This time though, he only had to use 2 needles. (much to my delight, trust me!)

If we had stayed in Calgary, and Frank with his last boss, none of this would have been possible! (did I mention my tongue and cheek feels weird from the freezing?:D) Praise God that Frank has decent dental coverage! 8 more teeth to go!

Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-04T10:20:00.001-08:00

Bachmann suspends campaign

2012-01-04T08:11:00.000-08:00

Probably the smartest thing she has ever done. Adios.

Brooke

2012-01-03T05:42:00.000-08:00

My daughter on her 29th birthday:)

Moody rise

2012-01-02T11:57:00.000-08:00

The first beautiful sunrise I have seen since moving here :) Sadly though, shortly after this, it turned overcast, and crappy.

Happy 2012!

2012-01-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

Out with 11 and in with 2012

2011-12-31T12:08:00.000-08:00

My daughter, Brooke. She'll be 29 on January 1st

This year that is passing hasn't been all to bad for us. The best thing that happened as you know, is Frank's job. The downer for 011 was the excessively long, cold winter we endured in Calgary. But, that is done with. So is 2011.

My daughter will be 29 years old tomorrow. She was the new years baby in a town in northern BC in 1983. Happy 29th birthday Brooke! :) Hope you all have a very happy and prosperous new year.

What I wont do!

2011-12-31T08:27:00.000-08:00

I saw on tv this morning, people putting a live lobster into a boling pot of water to cook it. I refuse to ever do that to any living thing! If you have to eat it, please humanely kill it before you eat it! Good grief.

Simply Traditional Lasagna

2011-12-30T16:27:00.000-08:00

I got this recipe from All Recipes. Looks delicious too!

Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 pound bulk Italian sausage
1/2 cup warm water
1 cup sliced black olives
1 pinch basil
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 1/2 teaspoons dried sage
2 teaspoons ground black pepper
2 tablespoons minced garlic
1 tablespoon dried onion flakes
2 (14 ounce) jars marinara sauce
1 (16 ounce) package lasagna noodles
8 ounces ricotta cheese
1 pound mozzarella cheese, shredded

Directions

Brown the ground beef and Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain excess grease. Stir in the water and black olives, and season with basil, garlic powder, oregano, sage, pepper, minced garlic, and onion flakes. Simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring frequently. Stir in the marinara sauce, and remove from the heat.
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
Place a layer of the meat and sauce in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Cover with a layer of dry noodles. Spread a thin layer of ricotta cheese over the noodles, and sprinkle with a little mozzarella cheese. Cover with another layer of sauce, and repeat layering ending with the meat and sauce on top. Reserve about 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese for later.
Bake for 45 minutes in the preheated oven, but check after 30 minutes depending on how thick the lasagna is. Lasagna is cooked when you can easily stick a knife into it. Sprinkle the reserved cheese over the top, and return to the oven for about 10 minutes for a nice melted cheese topping.

Sick and tired of winter already?

2011-12-30T12:07:00.000-08:00

Well, I have some wonderful vacation ideas for you right here in BC! (we will be going to Thompson-Okanagan in summer for famous peaches) At lower Mainland here, its green, looks like fall, and its warm!

Try a vacation to Vancouver! Here is a link for various places in BC to see!
BC vacation

The difference

2011-12-29T07:26:00.000-08:00

Normally this time of year in Calgary, its bitterly cold, bone dry, and snow to be shovelled. Yes, its usually so cold that you tend to stay home not want to stand outside at the bus stop for 45 min freezing your bones off while you wait to get to where you need to be. (apparently, they are having a mild winter so far) Such was the case earlier this year.

Brutal cold, 5 feet of snow, blizzard, after blizzard, and five and a half long brutal months of winter. So,what's the difference you ask? Huge! I'm not freezing to death waiting for the bus! I can actually walk out my front door without being buried to my knees in snow! I am also not falling down on buried ice on the roads either.

I don't like excessively long cold winters with too much snow. I don't mind snow as long as its short lasting, and not a ton of it, and not on the road! Where we live, its moderate, wet climate, not a ton of snow. We are lucky if we even see it. That's the difference! I don't have to be home bound all winter! I can go out places more now than when I lived in Calgary. That is also the difference. As I grow older, I find myself liking warmer climates more. Odd... 10 years ago, or even 2 years ago, the heat would clobber me.

But, here its rare to get 30+ degrees which suits me just fine. Well, the difference is good so far.

Smile!

2011-12-28T05:44:00.000-08:00

Vet visit

2011-12-27T07:20:00.000-08:00

Today, at 9:30 Blue will either have to tolerate her stitches for 3 more days, or they come out today. Its been 11 days, so I don't see why they can't come out today.

Of course, I am a human, and when I had my surgery in 87, I was given staples. Mine were in for 10 days. But, as I said, I am human, and not a cat :D So, it might be longer for a cat? We'll find out in 2 hours! :) I really hope she gets them out today. She has been such a good girl in her suit! She'd be extremely happy to have them out! (so will I)

So, here's hoping for the best! Oh, and Blue is 7 months old today:)

Uptdate: Frank is on his way home with Blue, and her stitches are out:D I bet you she is really happy! (Iam)

The Hour of Great Mercy

2011-12-26T15:04:00.001-08:00

Since its currently 3pm here, Iam posting the Hour of Great Mercy prayer from the Divine Mercy:

three times,

"O Blood and Water, which gushed forth from the Heart of Jesus, as
a fount of mercy for us, I trust in You (Diary 84)."

Duck dinner

2011-12-25T16:47:00.000-08:00

While I did poke holes in it according to that recipe I posted, duck meat is not for me. It turned out really well. Frank liked it. That's all that matters. I don't like dark bird meat. I didn't realize that duck was dark meat.

To me, it tasted gamey. But, that was me. So, no duck next year. Think I'll just cook a ham. Anyhow, that is another year away! :) One thing it did do was make the house smell nice. Other than that, it was a quiet Christmas, and a not so bad one.

I really enjoy having Frank home. Its really nice. I hope you all had a great holiday! :)

Sunday Silence

2011-12-25T06:09:00.000-08:00

A Christmas eve morning photo

2011-12-24T08:17:00.000-08:00

Little suit freedom for a bit.. but don't let that fool you.
This cat is a Houdini. If she wants the cone off, she'll take it off.

Surgical site. She was kind enough to let me photograph it.Her itchy stitches will hopefully come out on Tuesday. (she has an appointment at 9:30 am)

The suit:

Top view

As you can also see, it protects her stitches. She has very good mobility in the suit, and good bathroom access.

Shirley wanted me to post a photo of Blue with her suit on. I will later after its dry. I washed it. Here is a photo of her with the cone on and one of her stitches which is driving her batty. As you can see, they are healing quite nicely. Thanks mostly in part to my diligent efforts to keep her teeth off them.

Today is day 8. She likely can safely have them removed on Tuesday. I'll call the vet today and ask if its possible. While the suit is for her own good, it still drives her bananas not to be able to get at those stitches! I do feel for her, but hey, doctors orders!

Feliz Navidad!

2011-12-23T08:08:00.000-08:00

Frank and I want to wish you all a very Merry Christmas! May God warmly bless you this holiday season, and may you celebrate the birthday of the Christ Child with joy! I have a beautiful post for Sunday Silence that is scheduled to automatically publish. Enjoy your holiday!

I will be on hiatus until after Christmas.

Fun things to do on Christmas day

2011-12-22T15:03:00.000-08:00

On Christmas day, its not just about the presents! Frank and I like to watch movies, enjoy our dinner, and play games. One of my favorite games is Monopoly. I also like to play chess. (even though I don't have a hope in earth to beat Frank)

The one thing that is special for us is the quality time we get to spend together on one of my favorite holidays of the year. Remember, its not about what you get, its about Jesus, and its also about being together and enjoying each others company as you mark another year coming to a close. :)

Little things and holidays

2011-12-22T08:35:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow, Frank's holidays begin. He will be back to work on January 2sd. I'm really looking forward to spending a week with him! :) I love his company.

Now, for the little things. Blue is healing rapidly, but boy, is she in a snitty mood sometimes! Why? Because her stitches are driving her nuts and she tries to get at them, but she can't.

So, she sulks. (occasionally nips me when I try to pet her) So, I call her suit, the sulk suit. As soon as I took it off to give it a wash, she was her old self again. Put it back on, and wham, sour mood. But, she has to wear it for 5 more days. Too bad I can't speed heal her or I would, believe me!

I am sooooo looking forward to Christmas! :)

All done!

2011-12-21T13:50:00.000-08:00

Click on photo for full view

I finally can smile again! (recall the right upper front tooth was cracked? and only had a partial filling? well, its all filled now) I am glad to not be ashamed to smile wide again! I can still feel my tooth though when I tap it. (don't know whether she got the entire root out, but I hope so!)

Also glad I didn't have to foot even 1 dime of the bill.. over 900$ for this job!
At least I can smile now for Christmas! Praise God for everything! :)

Who is your favorite tv series priest?

2011-12-20T15:56:00.001-08:00

Mine is Father Mulcahy from tv series, MASH. :D

Should I care what the anti-Christians and athiests think...

2011-12-19T09:53:00.000-08:00

About Christmas? No. As a matter of fact, why should I? I wont pander to them. While I wont be rude, I most certainly refuse to pander to them because Christmas offends them. Deal with it. I definitely don't tell them what to believe or what not to believe. So, my message to them is, offer me the same respect that you get!

If you don't want to celebrate Christmas, don't! But, there are those of us that do. I wish people a Merry Christmas. If that bites, then well it bites. I wont pander to those that don't like the fact that Christians celebrate Christmas. You don't have to celebrate it! But, I will. Simple as that.

The great suit caper

2011-12-19T09:16:00.000-08:00

Yes, it seems as funny as the title of the post. Since I put Blue in her suit so she can't bite or lick her stitches, she has been sulking a bit. Well, oh well kitty cat! It stays on because its the only thing that keeps her from pulling at her stitches. She has very good mobility in it. She just hates it because cats don't like to wear suits :D No, the cone does not work. The suit does. 100% anti bite and lick. :D

I checked her stitches again today, and they are healing really well. There is enough air flow from the back of the suit where her legs are to air out the stitches. (just enough to air it out, not enough to put those little teeth in)

The goofy thing she does is to lick the suit in her regular grooming session:D
Lol. I can imagine that when her stitches start to itch, she might go bananas not being able to lick em and bite em. I'll keep a watchful eye on her, trust me. Soon kitty, that suit will come off:D Next Wednesday!

Sunday Silence

2011-12-18T15:21:00.001-08:00

Updates on a few things

2011-12-17T18:07:00.000-08:00

Blue is back from the vet clinic. But, we've had a few issues. Namely, her stitch biting. We used the so called anti lick spray. Utter waste of money. She is immune to bitter apple taste, or smell. She licks right over it.

Then, they put the cone on her attached to a harness. Waste of time. She pulled it off no matter how "secure" they tried to put it on her. Then, back to the biting of the stitches. So, they told me I would have to keep her kenneled for 2 weeks and only let her out for bathroom breaks. NOT happening! I wont jail my cat!

Then the nurse told me, well, short of kenneling her, she will need 24 hour supervision. I told her, I cannot stay awake 24hrs a day for 2 weeks. Frank has to work. Then she said, board her out. I said no. We don't have that kind of money! She got frustrated with me, even though I was trying to be kind to her. She said this whole Houdini act that Blue was doing was frustrating even the vet because she got out of what they thought was a super secure harnessed cone.

I said, wait, I have a solution. Trust me, it is working good so far. I made a suit for her. She can't get at her stitches trust me. So that is the solution. Now, here is the final problem. The Christmas tree. We can't keep her from eating it. We tried blocking it off with blankets, we tried plugging off every access to it, and yet, every 5 seconds, she is back tearing off the artificial needles and consuming them. So, since bitter apple doesn't work, and not even apple cider vinegar works as a deterrent, we have come to the conclusion that its a lost cause.

I am deeply disappointed. I wanted to have a tree for Christmas. But, that aint happening. Sigh.. Nothing deters her from getting at the tree. Short of putting it in a room she cannot access. What is the point of that? It brings no joy. None. Water spritzers are not a deterrent either. Nothing works to keep her off the tree. Oh well. I guess my holiday is a little less joyful, and a bit blander this year. We'll return the tree tomorrow unless one of you has a miracle up your sleeve that you're willing to share? We have no money, so that is a lost cause.

My cat comes first. Not the tree.

Aww!!

2011-12-16T11:25:00.000-08:00

My wittle kitty is spayed, and tattooed now:D But, the doc said that she is a little overweight as they saw some fat in her abdomen. So, they'll put her on a better diet. Aww! My little cat did well! Aw!!! (proud mom here) I'll post more when she is feeling better:) Wittle cat! :D Shucks:D Tomorrow. Frank and I have dental appointments. Yahoo.

A Christmas postcard from us, to you

2011-12-16T10:42:00.000-08:00

(click to enlarge for text on photo)

Surgery day

2011-12-16T07:44:00.001-08:00

We took Blue in this morning for her spaying/tattoo. She will come home tomorrow. Going to be a quiet home today. Probably good because I have a migraine :(

Our Christmas dinner will be duck

2011-12-16T05:46:00.000-08:00

Since Frank and I are not huge turkey fans, we opted for duck. The butcher told us that duck has alot of fat on it. So, I am going to go recipe browsing on Google and see what I come up with for making a Christmas duck. I have never had duck before. I am looking forward to trying it. :) I'll post recipe (when I come across a good one) here.

Found this cooking recipe on a chat site:

Firstly, clean the inside of the bird out... rinse well!

Take a good sized orange and slice the ends off (about up to an inch thick)
Put the bird into the oven on a medium heat for about 20 minutes (make your stuffing up at this point...) and then remove and allow to stand for 5 minutes before carefully inserting one of the pieces of orange (orange skin side out!) and gently pack with stuffing (I tend to make up shop bought stuffing and make it slightly wetter than the box says to) and then place the final piece of the orange end to seal over the end of the duck.... use a couple of cocktail sticks to nail the duck skin to the orange peel and then roast on a medium heat for an hour....

Remove from oven and using a turkey baster (it's easier) remove the duck fat... this allows it the time to rest before putting it back in the oven again... baste if necessary...

Give it a good half an hour before removing again and using the baster... this time however, make small insicions to the back of the legs and under the wings - the fat will run out a lot better...

Give it another 30 minutes and then turn the heat UP about a quarter of the way... at this point, drizzle freshly squeezed orange juice over the top and baste with a little of the ducks own fat...

Allow to rest before serving...

Oh - and I always make a fantastic sherry & orange gravy to serve with a selection of roasted vegetables

(link to above post, I forgot to add)

My note:

Make sure you poke the duck with a fork especially on the legs where it meets the body cavity. Poke holes all over the duck to release the fat. suction fat out with a turkey baster. take duck out, and drain the fat out. use an orange in the body cavity. discard giblets. (if you don't want to use them)

I usually cook poultry about 20 min per pound.

The new do:)

2011-12-15T13:15:00.000-08:00

Red red red :D

Top side view of the do

One of me wearing make up: (the lighting casts a yellow haze. Sorry bout that, its my lamp. Took photo near it)

I loathe those glasses. Time soon for a new pair.

When the bossman gets home, I'll get him to take a photo of the back. This is a very classy haircut. I wanted to go red, and I did. :)

The case of bigfoot has been solved!

2011-12-15T09:53:00.000-08:00

:D hee hee hee :D

Boo boo's surgery, and my kitty diary

2011-12-14T15:44:00.000-08:00

I was supposed to take her in 2 weeks ago for her spaying, but an unaccounted for bill (tenant insurance) came up. Frank had forgotten about it. So, we had to wait 2 weeks. She will go in this Friday, and get spayed, and tattooed. The vet does not recommend micro chipping because not every clinic can read them if your pet is lost. But, a tattoo they can.

So, we pick up the little monkey on Saturday. :) I was thinking of buying her a little soft bed to sleep on on the carpet. Why? Because she might be too sore to jump on the couch. (Jingles was such an ornery cat when we had her spayed, that she chewed off the surgical garment the vet put on her to keep her from biting her stitches) But, I suppose Boo boo gets some untasty cream to rub on her stitches. :D (bet she chews on 'em anyways:D)

Now, regarding her growing, and the monthly diary, well, she is almost 10 pounds now. All her adult teeth are in. (she still chews everything, and I am hoping as she gets older, it will eventually stop)

She is beyond par for her age in regards to the growth spurt, and the weight. She is bigger than alot of females at her age, and her back feet are huge:D Blue will be 7 months old on Dec. 27th. I do have alot of chew toys, but she tends to ignore them even if I switch them out to her other chew toys. So, we have a good old fashioned throw rope and she adores it, plus her bell ball. (that is sooo funny! she bats it around the town home, and brings it to you when she wants you to throw it)

Tomorrow, we get our new artificial Christmas tree. I will see if she tries to crash land on it during the night. We'll see. :D Oh, btw, if you want to see Shirley's fabulous real tree, go to her blog, Ride A Good Horse. Its really beautiful!

All in all, I am still the luckiest person on Earth to be picked by Blue as her owner:) She is one of the best cats I have ever owned. Iam very happy. She is an excellent companion to me. :) Yes, ladies and gents, I wont sleep much on Friday because I will worry about my little cat. Just the way I am :)

I'll keep you updated in a later post. Merry Christmas to all my viewers, and readers! May God bless you always.

Michele

Worldess Wednesday

2011-12-14T11:00:00.001-08:00

Finally!

2011-12-13T13:45:00.001-08:00

Today, I got into the Christmas spirit! Can't wait to get my tree! Gonna be fun!

We wish you a Merry Christmas, and a happy new year!.....

Tribute to Elvis Presley - On a snowy Christmas night

2011-12-12T16:47:00.000-08:00

This video clip is beautifully done. And, a song from Elvis I have not heard before. Enjoy!

Our 2 and a half hour discussion

2011-12-12T07:19:00.000-08:00

Frank and I rarely have these discussions. But, when we do, we discuss issues of interest for hours. This was a most enjoyable 2 1/2 hour discussion about beliefs, the universe, creation, and so on. The point of interest that drew the most discussion was the Watchtower Society and its belief about not celebrating birthdays. The issue of candles as part of the birthday celebration came up.

We did some research, and we dug up quite a bit. But first, let's discuss the candle issue. Witnesses believe to this day that candles are inherently evil because they are used as a form of spiritism. They also claim that when used in a birthday celebration, that they are used to "ward off" or protect the celebrant from demons. Then they go on to say about candles not being used by ancient Jews. (false, because I dug up Scriptures which prove that they were used, and I will list the Scriptures that prove it)

Then they also go on to state that candles are part of witchcraft, and the black mass. ( that is true because it is well known that they were used for such evil purposes) They use this against anyone even today who has a candle in their home. That they must be partaking or witchcraft, or the black mass.

So, in effect, anyone who has, or uses a candle in his/her home today must be partaking of demonism, or witchcraft, and spiritism. That they also erroneously claim that candles were not used by ancient Hebrews in the Bible. Ok, let's clear up that misconception about the ancient Hebrews right now! Here are the Scriptures which clearly prove that the ancient Hebrews used candles (for the good)

Matthew 5:15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. (KJV WBS)

Mark 4:21 And he said unto them, Is a candle brought to be put under a bushel, or under a bed? and not to be set on a candlestick? (KJV WBS)

Luke 8:16 No man, when he hath lighted a candle, covereth it with a vessel, or putteth it under a bed; but setteth it on a candlestick, that they which enter in may see the light. (KJV WBS)

Luke 11:33 No man, when he hath lighted a candle, putteth it in a secret place, neither under a bushel, but on a candlestick, that they which come in may see the light. (KJV WBS)

Luke 11:36 If thy whole body therefore be full of light, having no part dark, the whole shall be full of light, as when the bright shining of a candle doth give thee light. (KJV WBS)

Luke 15:8 Either what woman having ten pieces of silver, if she lose one piece, doth not light a candle, and sweep the house, and seek diligently till she find it? (KJV WBS)

Revelation 18:23 And the light of a candle shall shine no more at all in thee; and the voice of the bridegroom and of the bride shall be heard no more at all in thee: for thy merchants were the great men of the earth; for by thy sorceries were all nations deceived. (KJV WBS)

Revelation 22:5 And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever. (KJV WBS)

Job 18:6 The light shall be dark in his tabernacle, and his candle shall be put out with him. (KJV WBS)

Job 21:17 How oft is the candle of the wicked put out! and how oft cometh their destruction upon them! God distributeth sorrows in his anger. (KJV WBS)

Job 29:3 When his candle shined upon my head, and when by his light I walked through darkness; (KJV WBS)

Psalms 18:28 For thou wilt light my candle: the LORD my God will enlighten my darkness. (KJV WBS)

Proverbs 20:27 The spirit of man is the candle of the LORD, searching all the inward parts of the belly. (KJV WBS)

Proverbs 24:20 For there shall be no reward to the evil man; the candle of the wicked shall be put out. (KJV WBS)

Proverbs 31:18 She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night. (KJV WBS)

Jeremiah 25:10 Moreover I will take from them the voice of mirth, and the voice of gladness, the voice of the bridegroom, and the voice of the bride, the sound of the millstones, and the light of the candle. (KJV WBS)

As you see, their claim is entirely false. I even came across these Scriptures in their own version of the Bible. So, their claim that candles were used for evil intent all the time is completely false. If you were to put a candle in your window (unlit or lit) and they happened to come to your home to witness to you, they'd take off. Unless it is a very determined witness!

They also cannot claim that Jews didn't use candles. They did. Look at the Menorah. We all know the hypocrisy that surrounds the Watchtower Organization. We all know it. But, millions of indoctrinated witnesses don't.
(6.5 million to be exact)

Watchtower Organization is built upon lies, fraud, and false teachings. Truth exists with God. The lies they perpetuate, well in the end, it will be their undoing. God will personally see to it that that society and all those that have perpetuated the lies and fraud will be held 100% accountable.

I will continue to expose them for the fraud artists that they are. You, you who celebrate your birthday with candles, go ahead and do so without fear.
for in the end, God will prevail as He always does.

Little bit of the blues

2011-12-11T16:27:00.000-08:00

I had an episode with my heart again today. I will have to have it looked at.
Sigh.. always something isn't it? I am also seeming to just go through the motions of Christmas. I got sort of into the spirit of things, then whap, right back out of it. It doesn't help that I am in an unfamiliar environment. :(

Its alright. My daughter never visits me on Christmas day as she was busy doing Christmas with her friends. She came over last year after January because I was too sick to have her over. (the pneumonia) it also doesn't help that we have no money right now either. It also doesn't help that we must have an artificial tree. (according to management, real tree is a fire hazard. yeah right. not with LED lights on it)

So yeah I got the blues. Frank isn't really into it either. I don't even know if we are even going to get a tree this year. With an artificial tree, and Blue's biting habits, and eating foreign objects of almost anything on Earth, she'd likely eat the tree ends and cost me a fortune at the vet with her stomach.

I am very vigilant at watching what she is doing. I put everything I deem eatable by a cat out of her paw range. I dunno. If I have a tree this year, it has to be a real one. (because of Blue) if she gobbles up a tree needle, at least it would be a real one. The fake ones would be very harmful. Not like I have a gate to put around the tree to keep her off it.

Sigh.. I just can't seem to get the blues to go away.

Sunday Silence

2011-12-11T06:25:00.001-08:00

Sunday Silence

2011-12-10T21:06:00.001-08:00

Jingle Bells critter tune:D

2011-12-09T15:30:00.001-08:00

This is really cute:)

Dental update the good, and the bad

2011-12-08T10:27:00.001-08:00

Well, the drainage is done. Final root canal next week. Now, the bad. My lower molar on right side of my mouth cracked in the dentist office. He cemented it temporarily until I can have the tooth extracted.

sigh.. ah well. Better it cracked there than not I guess.

Sick again :(

2011-12-07T15:41:00.001-08:00

I came down wth a nasty bug that is wiping me out physically. On top of that. I have swelling and an infection above the cracked tooth that needs to be fixed.
I guess the dentist wont see me tomorrow after all :( Not being as ill as I am!

This year, as you know, I contracted pneumonia. I was sick from Dec of last year to past March of 2011. I hope it doesn't come down to that again! :( I HATE being sick! Oh well.

MASH's Harry Morgan dies at 96

2011-12-07T13:05:00.001-08:00

We all knew him as Colonel Sherman Potter. On one of the longest running repeat sitcoms on tv. He was 96. May God give him eternal rest.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-12-07T08:48:00.000-08:00

Just let me do it my way please!

2011-12-06T14:37:00.000-08:00

A few years ago, a blogger who used to visit my blog told me I could not put up my Christmas tree before 15th of December. Something to do with Advent. I simply told her, "I will put up my tree when I feel like it." There is no set time by the Church as far as I know to put up your tree. Nor is there a decree by the Holy Father that it has to be for Advent or whatever. Not as far as I know.

So what did this reader tell me? "Do it on the 15th." she never came back. I will do it my way. This reader was insensitive, rude, and rambling to me in long, pointless, ridiculous mails to me. If the Church states that there is a specific time to put my tree up, and the Holy Father makes it part of the faith, then I will do as is properly required. If I want to put up a tree before or after Dec. 15th, that is my choice! I dislike being ordered around. I am not a kid.

Then of course, guess who happened to drop by my home this morning banging loudly and rudely on my door? I really wish the jws would just get lost. As soon as I opened my door, and saw it was them, I said politely, "No thank you. Please, don't come back," (they will regardless, until I call the elders and ask them to stop) witnesses like to "witness" during the holidays so they can point out to you that Christmas is (according to their false belief) a "pagan" holiday. They really love it when they can "point out" that "fact" to you.

I was grumbling for about 30 min or so after they left. Was just a grumbling day for me. They reminded me of that woman who used to visit my blog and ordered me around about the tree. Sigh.. Jesus, I offer it all up to You!

Here are what witnesses do (yes, I know for a fact because I used to be one) they prepare for their "door to door" ministry well in advance. They have meetings at the hall before they go out door to door (or preaching on the street) and they are well prepared believe me.

They especially like to be at peoples door around this time of year. Because they are so indoctrinated against Christmas. They will be seen more in this time than almost any other.

They also know when a person moves, or moves into a vacant residence. How so? Because they keep track of their "field service" on paper. Trust me, no matter where you are in the world, the witnesses know your neighborhood better than you do.

I expected them to show up. I am surprised it took them 3 weeks to call on me. (they love that term, "call on you") Even though I expected them to come, I was still cranky when they came. They also keep meticulous records of who is approachable in the "field service" and who is not. If you show even a slight politeness, they take that for susceptibility to their belief. I don't recommend being rude. You can get your point across by being civil.

The best way to get them to stop is either by a no jw sign on your door, or politely calling the kingdom hall, and asking to speak to an elder. Make your point clear, but do not be rude. Rudeness never gets your anywhere.

I know these people like the back of my hand. I know why they came today. They did so because its the start of the holiday season. They want to get as many converts as they can. Remember, I used to be a jw, and I used to do the same thing. If they can cut down Christmas, all the better. But they are so tactful about it, that you do not even realize that they are doing it unless you are wise to their tactics like I am.

Sometimes, they will even ask you your name. Don't give it to them. Why? because they will keep a record of everything they talk to you about. Whether or not you are agreeable to being approached at the door or whatever. They love paperwork. The more they know you, the happier they are. Sooner or later, if you are not careful, you will end up having them in for tea. Then one thing leads to another, then you will end up studying with them.

That is how you end up being a witness. They use subtlety. One thing leads to another. First the door conversation. They usually use today's hot topics in the news, or how the world seems to be so evil, etc. They are taught all of this at the kingdom hall. For the person who is not wary, or doesn't know their tactics, or is suffering a hard time, or a loss, then they befriend you.

They use this cue to insert themselves into your life so that you become one of them. I am not paranoid either. I was taught all of this over a 12 year period. I know their tactics inside and out. They love to ingratiate themselves to you.

So don't be fooled by them. Its not the fault of the person who comes to your door. Its the fault of the lying and controlling governing body of the jws in New York. The folks that come to your door are indoctrinated, and some of them have even been born into that belief. So don't get mad at them. They are blinded. Its not their fault. Its the fault of the Organizations leaders.

Wise up. Make yourself fully aware of their tactics. Then you can truly protect your soul from the devil. The devil is a soul sucker, and he uses the Watchtower Organization as his pawn. Do not be fooled. Do not get yourself into something that will be hard to get out of. Take it from someone who knows, and who has been there. Its not easy to get out of. Believe me. But, I did.

Do not let a jw try to ruin your holiday. Celebrate it for Jesus.

Frank and Blue :)

2011-12-06T08:10:00.000-08:00

Cute!!! Cuddles before he went to work this morning :D

Christmas cards mailed

2011-12-05T11:18:00.000-08:00

I went out and mailed off all my cards today. Was cold enough to have to wear gloves. One thing I definitely need to invest in is another pair of shoes. Mine are not adequate for this environment. I need rubber shoes with liners in them.

Since its a pretty damp environment, runners just don't cut it here. Frank also needs a good pair of shoes as well. Shoes just never seem to be a priority for us. We buy one pair for each of us every 3-5 years. We are definitely not hard on shoes!

Did you fill out your cards yet?

2 of my favorite Christmas movies

2011-12-05T06:58:00.000-08:00

I love to watch these 2 movies and of course, Rudolph the red nosed reindeer every few years or so. Not every year. Here are the ones I am talking about:

and of course,

This year, Frank ordered Elvis's Christmas music:) Comes with a DVD set of songs on it as well.

Had to go ALL the way to Vancouver to get the shirt! :D

2011-12-04T13:49:00.000-08:00

But, I got it! When we returned the renta car this morning. Got my Grey Cup shirt:D With score on it too!

This photo is BC place stadium.

From the train

What a gorgeous day we are having!!

Yes, in December, we have green grass! :)

And of course, what would a trip be without Christmas photos from Pacific Center Mall on Granville! Pretty. Don't know about that thingamajig in the thingamajig skirt thingy though.

Church votes inter-racial couple out

2011-12-03T12:48:00.000-08:00

This is totally despicable on their part to do so. People have a right to marry whom they want to. No one has the right to tell you whom you can or cannot marry in North America. If you want to be married, and are in love with someone who is a different ethnic background, then by all means, get married! NO church has the right to tell you that you cannot marry that person!

I say to this young Christian couple, go ahead and get married, and tell those that voted you out, pfft. Ciao. Racism should NOT be tolerated by any society on earth. Neither should any belief dictate to you, whom you can, or cannot marry! This is North America! I would marry the person I am in love with! I did. For that nice young couple, walk away from that "church" and don't look back! Go get married, and be happy!!

LINK

Should a school ban a student with HIV?

2011-12-02T19:53:00.000-08:00

Well, one school in the USA did exactly that. John Doe as he is called, applied to enter a school. He is an honor student. He takes the medication which makes his virus barely detectable. So, did the school do the right thing by telling John Doe that he cannot go there because he is a direct threat to the other 2000 students?

By the way, this is going to court. The school openly admits that they wont allow him to enter their prestigious school because he is HIV positive, and he would pose a direct threat to the other students by potential sexual contact. (the kid is only 13 btw)

This school is also not an 8-3 daily school. It is a live in school. So, what is your opinion on this? Is the school correct? Or, are they as most people believe, violating the law, and his civil rights? I understand the school is concerned that he could potentially spread the virus through unprotected sex, or whatever. But, what about the rights of this kid?

What is your opinion?

Christmas shopping!

2011-12-01T16:44:00.001-08:00

Yippee! On December 15 I get to go out and shop! Woo hoo! Then my tree goes up too!

DO NOT let this man out!!!

2011-11-30T15:20:00.000-08:00

BIG mistake!!! He is NOT better! It would be detrimental to society if they let him walk! LINK to the story!

Why I love my cat :)

2011-11-29T13:09:00.000-08:00

As you all know, Blue is a wonderful companion to me. But, there is more to it than that. She purrs, she sits on my knee, she follows me everywhere, she is social, sweet tempered, she is cute, she melts the heart when she looks at you, she is delighted when you come home, she loves to play. She really makes me happy. :)

When I miss Frank, she keeps me company. Animals are just so wonderful. When you love them with all your heart like I do, they know it. They return it in abundance. I get very attached to animals. To me, they are part of my family. They can live a very long time, and grow old with you too. :) My life would not be as rich as it is without God giving me my kitty. I am all the more blessed for His gift to me! :)

And might I add, that when I am privileged to see Shirley's dogs, I just love to pet them and hug them! God really blessed my sister with all her wonderful animals:) Remember, readers, have your pets spayed, and neutered!

Buying a beater? Or, a good second hand car?

2011-11-29T08:59:00.000-08:00

You can go to car fax or another site to see if that car has been involved in an accident, or is roadworthy. Frank and I will be buying a second hand car at tax time. We will get the facts, and have it inspected believe me. I am not riding in it if it will break down one block from the home, or the breaks go out. A wise person would have their vehicle checked before purchase, unless you are car savvy and know what to look for before you purchase it.

I am looking forward to having our own wheels again believe me, In this area, a car is a must.

Surgery day Friday

2011-11-28T11:37:00.000-08:00

Boo boo get fixed and microchipped on Friday. I am going to miss her while she is at the clinic :( I am very, very, attached to her. Likely, I am going to worry about my little cat :( I probably wont sleep all night. My wittle kitty is getting spayed:) I will treat her to a nice healthy kitty snack when she feels better! :)

And the Grey Cup goes to...

2011-11-27T19:24:00.000-08:00

The BC Lions! Yay BC!!!! Woooo hoooo!! My gut feeling is never wrong:D!! Yippeeeee! My home province football team has won!

Odds and ends :D

2011-11-26T11:44:00.000-08:00

My new kitchen curtains! It says on the panels, tranquility, and happiness. (click on photo for larger view)

Blue sitting on the end of Frank's couch with her sweet little head resting on the pillow :)

The bonus is...

2011-11-25T12:27:00.000-08:00

A clean germ (well, at least I think so) free home. After you bleach counter tops, tub, toilet, doors, stove, floors, etc :) Why do I use bleach? Germs. You just don't want to get sick. When I get sick, I get really crabby. So, this year, I am going that extra mile to clean my home properly.

So what is the real bonus? A nice smelling home. The only thing I don't bleach out is the catbox. That I use hot water, and dish soap only. Bleach is not meant for dirtboxes. Cats cannot handle the fumes. I always air out my home really good after I use bleach. Another thing, I don't use a lot of bleach to clean because its not necessary as its potent enough as it is!

So, after an hour of heavy cleaning, I am going to pray, and then sit back and look at the fliers for good deals on this weeks shopping list:) God bless you!
Oh and Shirley, please give me some tips for training Boo Boo not to jump on me counter tops:) I love you!

Maybe...

2011-11-24T18:50:00.000-08:00

I am finally going to be wrong this year... but, I think Winnipeg Bluebombers are going to pull off an upset win at the Grey Cup. My gut says Lions though. :) hope I am wrong, Lions win it:)

Cute :)

2011-11-24T18:43:00.000-08:00

Blue sitting on Frank's knee tonight in my new fleece blanket. (now hers:D)

Have you ever been a Scrooge in your life, past, present, or maybe the future?

2011-11-24T16:35:00.000-08:00

Scrooge

I hope not. No one likes to be labeled as a Scrooge. Sadly though, people like the fictitious character do exist, and always have. But, you're not one of them are you? Have you ever been one in the past, and present? Hopefully not. Hopefully not in the future.

I've dealt with Scrooge type personalities in my life. I tell you, coming from a very poor home, it was sad. It really was. We went without many Christmas dinners, and many Christmas cheers in our lives. But, do you think that ever stopped me from loving God, or holding to the tradition of Christmas? No. As a matter of fact, it only strengthened my love for Jesus.

So, if you are a Scrooge, do you plan on changing your life anytime soon? I sure hope so. I hope so for the salvation of your eternal soul. Christmas is about Jesus. Don't forget that. I haven't. Its also time with family. Don't be a Scrooge and forget your family, and those that are close to you. Especially, do not forget about God.

Don't forget about charity towards your fellow man either. Namely, the poor and hungry. Not just that, but donate to an organization that dispenses it to the poor. Donate blankets, or food, or coats this year. Alot of organizations are taking those types of donations for kids, and the poor and hungry.

This Christmas, stop your Scrooging, and become a follower of Christ. Walk with Him your entire life. And put the cheapness and begrudging aside. Be what God would love you to be. A better you. Not a Scrooge.

Broken glass, and driving me nuts

2011-11-23T15:02:00.000-08:00

I woke up this morning after a very fitful sleep last night (had a horrible nightmare that kept me awake in fear for 2 hours) and what did I wake up to? a broken glass on my floor. If I had not seen it when I did, I could have badly cut up my feet. Suffice it to say, I was pretty cranky.

So, who broke it? The cat. She pushed it right off the counter, and on to the floor. Where it shattered into a million pieces. Now, I am very obsessed about glass. I get fearful if it shatters where I could accidentally ingest it in my food, or on floor where it could cut my feet.

Put it this way, the cat got banned from kitchen today. I will have to buy a kennel to keep her in there at night. Its unsanitary for a cat to walk on counters regardless. I am getting tired of bleaching my counter tops daily.
The glass was the last straw. I had it far back enough that I am surprised she'd even push it off the counter. She normally doesn't do it.

But. she did it today. Kennel is necessary as well, because she howls outside the bedroom doors and bangs on them. I wont permit a cat to be in bedrooms. The hair on Frank's clothes is not always gotten off by a lint brush. Some of it stays. Its not good in his business. So, I go kennel pricing today. No more free flying around the house at night. Uh uh. Soon as I can afford a kennel, in she goes at night. (only at night)

Christmas card tradition

2011-11-22T21:01:00.000-08:00

Lots of people mail there's out around 15-20th of Dec. I mail mine out on the 4rth. It just depends on how slow the mail is at Canada post. Since Canada post has a history of slow mail in Dec, I mail mine out well in advance.

It has always been the 4rth. So, in a little over a week, I mail them out for this season. When is your mailing date?

Ups and downs update

2011-11-21T16:00:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I opted not to put Blue on antibiotics. What I did do was speak with her vet on Sunday. The vet also did not want to put her on antibiotics. We both figured it was the smelly Acana cat food that gave her the runs.

I took the cat food back to the store where we purchased it, and the owner gave me a full refund. The Acana gave Blue bad gas. Both the vet and I discussed it. The smell was bad in the bag. So, no Acana for Blue.

We did put her on a gastro-intestinal brand of food called Royal Canin. Its the same cost as Acana. So far, she is doing good on it. No runs today. Her last bout was on the weekend. A plus is, she did not have dehydration, or a fever with her 4 day run with the gastric upset.

So, here is hoping that things are back to normal. At least I didn't get nauseated when I cleaned her box today. That is definitely good.

Tony Bennett and Clint Eastwood

2011-11-20T20:03:00.000-08:00

I had a dream last night that Tony Bennett and Clint Eastwood are going to pass. Sure hope it doesn't happen. But, well, if it does, it does. :(

Christmas gifts?

2011-11-20T18:16:00.000-08:00

No. I am not giving out gifts this year. I will give out a few gift cards. Why? because I think its a better idea. It has nothing to do with not knowing what to buy. I just think its a better idea.

Besides, if you give a gift card, the person gets to decide what they would like to have. Sometimes, over all, its just a better idea.

Spruce or blue spruce?

2011-11-20T16:53:00.000-08:00

In this image, you can see 2 trees right next to each other outside our townhome. To me, the closest one looks like a regular spruce. Or, is it a blue spruce tree? If anyone would know, its Shirley. (you should be able to click on the image to its original size, and scroll in on it to enlarge)

Ever get that feeling you are being followed?

2011-11-20T08:29:00.000-08:00

Is your cat following you? He may well be....

Upstairs? Downstairs? Bathroom? Bedroom? Laundry room? Kitchen? Living room? Ever get that feeling that something is following you silently, and you don't see it til the last second? :D

Wonder what it is? Who it is? My cat. :D Everywhere I go, there she is. She sometimes is so silent on her little padded paws, that I don't see or hear her coming until she is right at my feet:D (not always a good thing because sometimes, I can't hear her walking next to me, and she has almost tripped me 10 times on the stairs.)

When you get that feeling in your house that a furry little critter might be following you around the house, chances are, they are:D Hee hee hee :D

Ups, and downs

2011-11-19T14:40:00.000-08:00

Well, last 3 days have been painful for Blue to say the least. She has been suffering yet another bout of the runs. 3 days now. I took her to the vet this morning, and she had vaccinations, and a de worming pill. But, she still has the runs. Its gross to say the least.

Tomorrow, I go back to the vet (who could have saved me the effort by doing this today) and get her an antibiotic. Poor cat. She is an indoor cat, so why she has the runs is beyond me. Sigh...

So, yet another trip to the vet. Good thing its not as expensive as Calgary!

Simply Michele

Saint Therese in death

Sunday Silence

Immortalization gripe

2 more famous die this week

Transformers - Dark of the moon

All we need is love, right?

Syrian activist says that the whole world is to blame

Dental update on Frank

"I deserve a second term"...

Acting like a complete idiot

2 dental visits and new glasses

Birthday cards, and Chantilly perfume

46 today :D

Will he, or wont he?

Err yeah...

Ah, sure Mr. Romney...

Michele's kitten diary - month 7

Mindful Monday

Going in a different direction

A clearer, better understanding

Happy belated birthday..

Bullying

Birthday tributes

Time out

My birthday gift

Have you chosen a Saint yet for 2012?

Mhmm... yeah

Too early to tell yet..

Another tooth done

Wordless Wednesday

Bachmann suspends campaign

Brooke

Moody rise

Happy 2012!

Out with 11 and in with 2012

What I wont do!

Simply Traditional Lasagna

Directions

Sick and tired of winter already?

The difference

Top stories in my book for 2011

Smile!

Vet visit

The Hour of Great Mercy

Duck dinner

Sunday Silence

A Christmas eve morning photo

Feliz Navidad!

Fun things to do on Christmas day

Little things and holidays

All done!

Who is your favorite tv series priest?

Should I care what the anti-Christians and athiests think...

The great suit caper

Sunday Silence

Updates on a few things

Aww!!

A Christmas postcard from us, to you

Surgery day

Our Christmas dinner will be duck

The new do:)

The case of bigfoot has been solved!

Boo boo's surgery, and my kitty diary

Worldess Wednesday

Finally!

Tribute to Elvis Presley - On a snowy Christmas night

Our 2 and a half hour discussion

Little bit of the blues

Sunday Silence

Sunday Silence

Jingle Bells critter tune:D

Dental update the good, and the bad

Sick again :(

MASH's Harry Morgan dies at 96

Wordless Wednesday

Just let me do it my way please!

Frank and Blue :)

Christmas cards mailed

2 of my favorite Christmas movies