Sweet Older Sister

What do I hear?

2012-01-30T07:24:00.000-08:00

Do you hear it? The sound of a burst of hot air!!

It's coming from the neighbors yard!

Do you see it?

Will it get up?

It's moving!

Around the house...

Floating up ... until...

It's above the tree!

And safe in the air!

Have a Great Day, Everyone!

Taking time to visit!

2012-01-27T07:39:00.000-08:00

I am smiling so big not only because I have my friend visiting me, but, when Dennis told her this is picture is for the blog, Robin is saying, "HI SANDY!"

We had a little lunch and long relaxing visit, just what we need in life.

Maksim Mrvica - Croatian Rhapsody

2012-01-21T09:31:00.000-08:00

Playing with Dal and Lil

2012-01-19T10:08:00.000-08:00

My next project.

2012-01-13T08:50:00.000-08:00

Loosing weight the healthy way!

Having a Family day at the In-laws

2012-01-08T10:11:00.000-08:00

This huge oak tree covers the whole yard and the house too!

Looking for the woodpecker we can hear!
There are two!

With a tree that big there has to be a rope swing!

(check the older post)

Come on a Walk with me!

2012-01-08T08:23:00.000-08:00

Let's go!

Rough trail, watch your step!

Floating sticks in the tiny stream.
(like Pooh Bear)

Did your stick make it through the rocks?

Taking a little break.
Enjoying the moment.

Hey! There!

That's pretty high!

Yep, Even Grammy made it up the rocks!

(Check out the older post.)

Eating and Relaxing after a happy hike

2012-01-08T07:53:00.000-08:00

The Cooks!
Mmmmm Turkey dinner!

Not Formal!
Relaxing, Every man for himself
and paper plates.
Perfect for a comfortable family evening.

And of course Games.
and kids!

Up Up and AWAY......

2012-01-06T07:24:00.000-08:00

that's how I'm feeling about this New Year of 2012!

Let's Go! Continue to pursue our Goals.
Despite any setbacks.

Remembering all the GOOD things

Leaving behind the BAD things.
Looking UP to Better Times for ALL!

Porch Life in the Morning

2012-01-04T18:45:00.000-08:00

Great way to start a day!

Coffee on the porch

What you got, Thing 1?
Tea!

Pam's healthy quinoa with blueberries and coconut milk!
Yummy! Good!

The Artist Trailer 2011 HD

2011-12-31T13:45:00.000-08:00

Fun with Dan and Pam!

2011-12-30T08:08:00.000-08:00

We are having a Great Visit!
But I haven't taken alot of Pictures.

And of course there are Games!

RisiKo!
(Italian Risk)

"For there has been a child born to us,

2011-12-21T07:31:00.000-08:00

there has been a son given to us; and the princely rule will come to be upon his shoulder. And his name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. To the abundance of the princely rule and to peace there will be no end, upon the throne of David and upon his kingdom in order to establish it firmly and to sustain it by means of justice and by means of righteousness, from now on and to time indefinite. The very zeal of Jehovah of armies will do this."
-Isaiah 9:6, 7

Yes, Isaiah the prophet, inspired by God, foretold details about the "promised seed" that would free mankind from sin and death and rule over the earth. (Genesis 3:15) Isaiah explains this promised son would become a capable ruler.

"And there must go forth a twig out of the stump of Jesse; and out of his roots a sprout will be fruitful. And upon him the spirit of Jehovah must settle down, the spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the spirit of counsel and of mightiness, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of Jehovah; and there will be enjoyment by him in the fear of Jehovah." -Isaiah 11:1-3a

The foretold Messiah would become a righteous and merciful Judge.

"And he will not judge by any mere appearance to his eyes, nor reprove simply according to the thing heard by his ears. And with righteousness he must judge the lowly ones, and with uprightness he must give reproof in behalf of the meek ones of the earth. And he must strike the earth with the rod of his mouth; and with the spirit of his lips he will put the wicked one to death. And righteousness must prove to be the belt of his hips, and faithfulness the belt of his loins." -Isaiah 11:3b -5

Under the Messiah's rule there would be changed conditions on the earth.

"And the wolf will actually reside for a while with the male lamb, and with the kid the leopard itself will lie down, and the calf and the maned young lion and the well-fed animal all together; and a mere little boy will be leader over them. And the cow and the bear themselves will feed; together their young ones will lie down. And even the lion will eat straw just like the bull. And the sucking child will certainly play upon the hole of the cobra; and upon the light aperture of a poisonous snake will a weaned child actually put his own hand. They will not do any harm or cause any ruin in all my holy mountain; because the earth will certainly be filled with the knowledge of Jehovah as the waters are covering the very sea."
-Isaiah 11:6-9

Jesus Christ has been raised up a clear signal, a rallying point, for spiritual Israel and for people out of all nations who long for righteous government.

"And it must occur in that day that there will be the root of Jesse that will be standing up as a signal for the peoples. To him even the nations will turn inquiringly, and his resting place must become glorious." -Isaiah 11:10

Under the Messiah's direction the good news of the kingdom has been carried to all the nations, as Jesus foretold. (Compare: Matthew 24:14 and Mark 13:10) May we continue to learn about our Heavenly Father and of his son, Christ Jesus so as to imitate their ways, walking in accord with God's will.

"He has told you, O earthling man, what is good. And what is Jehovah asking back from you but to exercise justice and to love kindness and to be modest in walking with your God?" -Micah 6:8
"In fact, to this course you were called, because even Christ suffered for you, leaving a model for you to follow his steps closely." -1 Peter 2:21

May we never forget the purpose of this "child born to us " how he has grown up, left us an example, laid down his perfect human life, was resurrected to heaven, where He has now in these "last days" been given the throne of David and reigns as the anointed King of God's kingdom. Soon, the King will destroy all wickedness on earth, then those left over will enjoy the promised changes, including peace, real peace on earth, among men of good will.

Chopin Etude Op. 25 No. 11 "Winter Wind"

2011-12-18T15:34:00.000-08:00

We are having some Winter Winds here, what about you?

MMMMMM mmmmm Good!

2011-12-10T16:24:00.000-08:00

Soup Tasting Gathering!

Chicken Tortilla Soup!

Shrimp Gumbo with cat fish!

Pumpkin Soup and Leek Potatoe soup with carrots

Happy Tasters

Molasses Cookies for Dessert.
Great afternoon.

Honey Ants?

2011-12-08T08:04:00.000-08:00

Honey ants are one of the most unusual of the known ant species. Honey ants store nectar inside the living bodies of worker ants called repletes. The ant colony draws on these living "honey pots" during lean times.

An ant will use its antennas to tap the right code on the antennas of a replete. The replete then opens its mouth to unlock the "honey pot". A special stomach valve, composed of four flaps, controls the flow in or out.

Repletes live a sedentary but safe life underground. They are protected from drought, heat, and insect predators. They guard against bacteria and fungi by smearing their bodies with antibiotic fluid from a special gland.

Where does the "honey" come from? It begins with sap and nectar of acacia trees. Then, tiny insects called aphids feed on these natural juices. Worker ants then milk the aphids of some of their excess sugar, called honeydew, or they collect it directly from the trees. The worker ant then feeds this collected liquid to the repletes. Since the inactive repletes have a small nutritional need, most of the honeydew ends up in the "honey bank".

What about the aphids? The ants leave them adequate nectar and protect them from parasites and predators. Both the ants and the aphids are winners in this symbiotic partnership called mutualism.

These type of ants can be found in the desert regions of Australia, Africa and Southeast Arizona. The aborigines find and eat these honey ants, considering them a Desert Delicacy. Would you try one, if the opportunity arises?

"Go to the ant see its ways and become wise. Although it has no commander, officer or ruler, it prepares its food even in the summer, it has gathered its food supplies even in the harvest." -Proverbs 6:6-8.

Yes these ants are cooperative, highly organized, and industrious! It is amazing that these hardy desert dwellers produce such a sweet delicacy in such a harsh, inhospitable terrain.

For more info go here:

http://www.sasionline.org/antsfiles/pages/honeyants/honey.html

Dennis and his Pals

2011-12-03T07:48:00.000-08:00

had a CHILI Cook Off!

There must have been about 7 different types of Chili
I'm glad I wasn't a Judge 'cause they were all Good!

It was relaxing, with plenty of games.

We even had some visitors from Finland!
What fun.

Wish I had taken more pictures.

(Dennis came in second)

Why

2011-12-01T06:48:00.000-08:00

Do Jehovah's Witnesses say that God's Kingdom was established in 1914?

Two lines of evidence point to that year:
1. Bible chronology
2. Bible prophecy.
This post will discuss Bible chronology.

Decades in advance, Bible students proclaimed that there would be significant developments in 1914*. What were these developments? What evidence points to 1914 as such an important year?

As recorded at Luke 21:24, Jesus said: "Jerusalem will be trampled on by the nations, until the appointed times of the nations ("the times of the Gentiles," King James Version) are fulfilled." Jerusalem had been the capital city of the Jewish nation -the seat of rulership of the line of kings from the house of King David. (Psalm 48:1, 2) However, these kings were unique among national leaders. They sat on "Jehovah's throne" as representatives of God himself. (1 Chronicles 29:23) Jerusalem was thus a symbol of Jehovah's rulership.

How and when, though, did God's rulership begin to be "trampled on by the nations"?
This happened in 607 B.C.E when Jerusalem was conquered by the Babylonians. "Jehovah's throne" became vacant, and the line of kings who descended from David was interrupted. (2 Kings 25:1-26) Would this 'trampling' go on forever? No, for the prophecy of Ezekiel said regarding Jerusalem's last king, Zedekiah:
"Remove the turban, and lift off the crown... It will certainly become no one's until he comes who has the legal right, and I must give it to him."
(Ezekiel 21:26, 27)
The one who has "the legal right" to the Davidic crown is Christ Jesus. (Luke 1:32, 33) So the "trampling" would end when Jesus became King.

When would that grand event occur? Jesus showed that the Gentiles would rule for a fixed period of time. The account in Daniel chapter 4 holds the key to knowing how long that period would last. It relates a prophetic dream experienced by King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon. He saw an immense tree that was chopped down. Its stump could not grow because it was banded with iron and copper. An angel declared: "Let seven times pass over it." -Daniel 4:10-16

In the Bible, trees are sometimes used to represent rulership. (Ezekiel 17:22-24; 31:2-5) So the chopping down of the symbolic tree represents how God's rulership, as expressed through the kings at Jerusalem, would be interrupted. However, the vision served notice that this "trampling of Jerusalem" would be temporary -a period of "seven times." How long a period is that?

Revelation 12:6, 14 indicates that three and a half times equal "a thousand two hundred and sixty days." "Seven times" would therefore last twice as long, or 2, 520 days. But the Gentile nations did not stop "trampling" on God's rulership a mere 2,520 days after Jerusalem's fall. Evidently, then, this prophecy covers a much longer period of time. On the basis of Numbers 14:34 and Ezekiel 4:6, which speak of "a day for a year," the "seven times" would cover 2,520 years.

The 2,520 years began in October 607 B.C.E., when Jerusalem fell to the Babylonians and the Davidic king was taken off his throne. The period ended in October 1914. At that time, "the appointed times of the nations" ended, and Jesus Christ was installed as God's heavenly King. -Psalm 2:1-6; Daniel 7:13, 14.

From October 607 B.C.E. to October 1 B.C.E is 606 years. Since there is no zero year, from October 1 B.C.E, to October 1914 C.E. is 1,914 years. By adding 606 years to 1,914 years, we get 2,520 years.

*As early as 1823, John A. Brown, whose work was published in London, England, calculated the "seven times" of Daniel chapter 4 to be 2,520 years in length. But he was not clear on the date the prophetic time period began or when it would end. He did, however, connect these "seven times" with the Gentile Times of Luke 21:24.
In 1844, E.B. Elliott, a British clergyman, drew attention to 1914 as a possible date for the end of the "seven times" of Daniel, but he also set out an alternate view that pointed to the time of the French Revolution.

In 1875 in the August, September, and October issues of Herald of the Morning, N.H. Barbour helped to harmonize details that had been pointed out by others. Using chronology compiled by Christopher Bowen, a clergyman in England, published by E.B. Elliott, Barbour identified the start of the Gentile Times with King Zedekiah's removal from kingship as foretold at Ezekiel 21:25, 26, and he pointed to 1914 as marking the end of the Gentile Times.

Interestingly, Sir Isaac Newton (1642-1727) had written that Christ would return and reign "invisible to mortals."

Things I saw this Week-end!

2011-11-26T17:47:00.000-08:00

Susan's Nikki and Grandkids!

Saturday Visit at Paul's
Then home

Here Is a Book I Strongly recommend.

2011-11-24T12:46:00.000-08:00

For anyone who wants to understand this disease.
Especially if you know someone managing this disease.
I am nearly done reading this information and learned a great deal.

Lunch! Then off Again!

2011-11-22T08:24:00.000-08:00

Dion treated us to Chinese Food,
PF Chang

A real treat for our Italian travelers.
They are off to Saipan,
But will be back for a longer visit in Dec.

Happy Day!

Across Many Mountains

2011-11-18T07:17:00.000-08:00

A book to read.

I went to the library and found this book. I found it very stimulating to a western mind, and a tool to help understand others from the top of the world.

These three generations of Tibetan women have very different lives. They are Buddhist from Tibet, very different from the Buddhist of Japan. Buddhist teachings are vague and the interpretation varies from one person to another. Buddhism does not recognize an external God, a personal Creator. But many Buddhists worship images and relics of Buddha. Siddhartha Gautama, who was given the title Buddha, came to be viewed as the religious ideal of his followers, to be imitated by them. He encouraged gaining enlightenment by studying mankind from a human standpoint, also severing the roots of suffering by controlling the mind so as to eliminate all earthly desire. He taught that in this way one might attain to Nirvana, free from the rebirths of transmigration. Buddhist worship their ancestors, because they view these as the source of their life. The Tibetan Buddhist follow the Dali Lama. The idea of the Christian God sending his son to earth is a very foreign thought for them.

I can not even imagine surviving what these women have endured. The Himalaya's are very high, very cold, and treacherous. When China invaded Tibet, the Grandmother and others lives were endangered. This is the story of her escape, with her young daughter and how they survived object poverty. Today, Tibetans are scattered through out the earth. If you ever saw the movie "Seven Years in Tibet" you may have an idea of the back ground of these women.

How can the western mind, find some common ground to have meaningful conversations with these of eastern thinking? Buddhists have respect for "holy books," and usually they respect the Bible for that reason. Let them know that the Bible is not mere human philosophy but the authoritative Word of mankind's Creator, Jehovah God. Ask politely if you may show them an interesting point in this holy book, the Bible. Many Buddhists are very interested in peace and family life and want to live moral lives. Discussion on any of these matters is often welcomed. Who knows? By showing a loving, respectful attitude towards these refugees, we may come to have many interesting conversations with our eastern neighbors.

Wonderful Wednesday

2011-11-10T08:25:00.000-08:00

Fun With Glen and Nancy

IL VOLO-UN AMORE COSÍ GRANDE-IL MONDO-O SOLE MIO-GRANADA-UN AMORE COSI G...

2011-11-07T20:38:00.000-08:00

These Young Men take my breath away!
Do you enjoy them as much as I do?

Dave Loggins - Please Come To Boston - 1974 DJ (HD Stereo!)

2011-11-07T20:19:00.000-08:00

This song is one that has always moved me. I love the way Dave Loggins sings it.
Can you picture the places he's been? And the girl in Tennessee?

Pavarotti & Stevie Wonder Peace Wanted Just To Be Free HQ

2011-11-07T08:08:00.000-08:00

Music that moves me. Just thought I would share.

GLADYS KNIGHT & THE PIPS - MIDNIGHT TRAIN TO GEORGIA.wmv

2011-11-07T07:55:00.000-08:00

This one always gives me goosebumps? Why? The music, or the words, involving disappointment, love and sacrifice?

We took a Drive to Arizona

2011-11-04T08:21:00.000-07:00

This is what we found! Grandma and her Helper Sam!
Had a nice visit, checking up on Grandma's hurt foot.

Time to Go Home.

2011-11-01T08:13:00.000-07:00

Before we leave the Bay area, we stop in to see the youngest member of our family.

Guy Girod
Only a couple of weeks old
So very precious!

Look how long he is!

Happy mother, content baby.

Then we hit the road,
We took the 101 hwy
and it led us to Solvang

Solvang is about 12 miles off hwy 101
Not to far out of the way
And worth every minute!

Famous for it's pastries!
Cream Puffs, eclairs, marzipan!
All soooo light and fluffy!

Of course we had to have some,
and some more,
And some more!
So we ended our journey with a sweet box to take home.

Fremont Trip -Part 4- Monday

2011-10-31T07:29:00.000-07:00

We took a drive into San Francisco

And drove by many interesting buildings

Becky stopped to get Tie-died T-shirts

We drove up and down the hilly streets of China Town and then ended up at:

Buena Vista Cafe

Famous for their Irish Coffee
I had one, Aunt Joanie had TWO!
We all had fun!

Then it was on to Ghirardelli Square.

We played in the fountain

Then Aunt Joanie took us to this very upscale place for lunch.

I got the Salmon Club Sandwich
It was sooooo goood!

The view was beautiful!

Of Course we had to get Dessert!

Ghirardelli Hot Fudge Sundae!

Fremont Trip -Part 3- Sunday

2011-10-28T08:35:00.000-07:00

Sunday morning we got ready for our next adventure.
We headed down to Capitola, CA.
Patti and Shari were able to join us. It is a lovely little coastal city.

Becky and I put our feet in the ocean.
We walked around the shops with Patti and Shari.

Aunt Joanie made reservations at the Shadowbrook Resturant
It is built on levels, with stairs and paths leading down.
These paths were beautifully planted with trees and flowers
What about Dennis?

We rode down in a little cable car!
We sat in a corner table with windows all around,
It was a real beautiful view.
I had sand dabs (a white fish) with saffron rice. mmm mmm mmm.

Here we all are sitting in the sun.

Fremon Trip - Part 2- Saturday

2011-10-28T07:53:00.000-07:00

We slept in on Saturday,
then went to brunch with Aunt Joanie,
Becky and Davey at the Original Pancake House.
Hung out, around the hotel a while.

Saturday Evening we were at Patti's House!
Enjoying a glass of wine
with BBQ hamburgers and hot dogs, our favorite!
Shari put it all together, with macaroni salad
and those cute tiny dill pickles.

What a great surprise! Brad and EV dropped in to see us!
We had a wonderful evening laughing, reminiscing and watching TV.
Just keeping our bonds tight.
It was great!

Fremont Trip -Part 1- Friday

2011-10-27T08:21:00.000-07:00

We arrived in Fremont on Thursday nite. This is Dennis outside on our hotel patio Friday morning.

Very comfortable and relaxing

First up, breakfast with cousins
and Aunt Joanie
at Denny's
That is Greg's daughter, Jessica at the end of the table.

We took a beautiful drive from Fremont thru south San Mateo
and over the mountains to Half Moon Bay.
We saw a junk shop (huge) and some cute little shops and ended up here:
Sam's Chowder House.

The weather was warm, so no chowder for me.
I got the swordfish, served on a potatoe cake, on chard
It was delicious!

That was our Friday with Aunt Joanie.

A new Nephew for Trisha!

2011-10-20T08:27:00.000-07:00

Trisha and her sisters
we got invited to a baby shower!

Trisha's Mom made the cake!

I made an elephant!
The food was great! and we saw many many friends and family

The Last Days...

2011-10-19T07:05:00.000-07:00

When you hear the expression "The Last Days" what does that bring to your mind?

Many people ask, "The last days of what?"

The Bible uses the expression “last days” to refer to the concluding time period leading up to a divinely appointed execution that marks the end of a system of things.

The Jewish system with its worship built around the temple in Jerusalem experienced its last days from 33 to 70 C.E. What occurred then was pictorial of what would be experienced in a greatly intensified way and on a global scale at a time when all nations would be facing the execution of judgment decreed by God. The present wicked system of things, which extends worldwide, entered its last days in 1914, many alive today will see its complete end in the “great tribulation.”

How do we know we today are living in “the last days”?
The Bible describes events and conditions that mark this significant time period. “The sign” is a composite one made up of many evidences; thus its fulfillment requires that all aspects of the sign be clearly in evidence during one generation. The various aspects of the sign are recorded at Matthew chapters 24, 25, Mark 13, and Luke 21; there are additional details recorded at 2 Timothy 3:1-5,
2 Peter 3:3, 4, and Revelation 6:1-8.

We will be examining the different aspects of the composite sign in our Theocratic Ministry School during the next few weeks. I will post the aspects one at a time on my sidebar every Thursday for any who may be interested. Like the early disciples, many today are keenly interested in where we are in the stream of time.

How Many?

2011-10-15T21:20:00.000-07:00

39

Yes, 39 years!

I think I will keep HIM another 39!

Do you remember...

2011-10-13T08:37:00.000-07:00

Making Paper Boats? I do! We made them out of newspapers and put them in gutters to float after the rainstorm! (Yes, we made hats too!)

A Gift From Croatia

2011-10-07T07:38:00.000-07:00

Paprika!

Ingredients I have!

Hand written recipe sent from across the sea.

We tried this and it was delicious and easy.
I love using different spice combinations.
We used ground beef, because that's what we had,
However, I'm sure it is better with beef cubes, nice and browned.
May you enjoy this too!

Thanks Daniel and Pam!

Activity on the Porch!

2011-09-29T07:51:00.000-07:00

I love Porch life!

Koen's Frog

2011-09-23T08:44:00.000-07:00

That's some lizard!

2011-09-19T20:43:00.000-07:00

Good Job! Thing 1

Native California Shrub

2011-09-18T19:04:00.000-07:00

This shrub grows all over our area.
In the spring the blossoms come out very white.

As summer progresses, the blossoms turn a beautiful orange/rust color
Rabbits and Quails take refuge in them.

By the end of fall they will be a dark burnt orange
They have even been used for fall Weddings.
They are very interesting, I enjoy them every year.

A New Friend!

2011-09-15T07:44:00.000-07:00

The neighbor boys have a new friend.

They call her, "Pardner"
They saved Pardner, from the pound.

And they take "Pardner" on walks every morning and evening!

Pardner, is part Lab
And about 2 years old.
A very nice dog!

Welcome to our home, Pardner!

Popo Takes a Turn

2011-09-14T07:32:00.000-07:00

That looks interesting!

How many will you make?

These are going to be pretty fancy bean bags!

What Is That?

2011-09-13T07:05:00.000-07:00

We have three kitties already. However, Son #7 brought another one home. This kitten has a very funny personality, very different from our overly friendly kitties.

Her name is Sarah Shadow Diabla. At first she ALWAYS had her claws out. Ouch! Ouch! Ouch!
She did not like anybody (not even son#7) and would slink by, like a shadow. Her favorite place is Son #3's room and has decided to adopt him as her very own person.

The funny thing is: She is very good with Lilly, and never claws her when she drags Sarah Shadow around and even takes naps with our little girl. Any way, this kitten makes us laugh. A good reason to keep her around.

Finished Project

2011-09-09T07:50:00.000-07:00

All Finished!

A little peasant dress.

And a new friend too!

Grandmama Takes a Turn!

2011-09-07T11:10:00.000-07:00

OK, let's sew it together!

What will it be?

What are you working on, Lil?

2011-09-05T07:04:00.000-07:00

Stay tuned to find out!

Summer Lunch

2011-08-28T17:02:00.000-07:00

Slow and refreshing.....

Bacon, Tomatoe, Lettuce, Avocado on sour dough bread!
Cucumber salad on the side, with WATERMELON!

And Good Company to eat with!

Then a nap!

Mmmm Relaxing Breakfast

2011-08-24T15:55:00.000-07:00

Great Way to Start a Day!

Me and my Porch Pals!

Ooooo I spy LUNCH!

Languages!

2011-08-16T07:09:00.000-07:00

So very many!

I have a friend that speaks, Portugese, French, English, and Spanish.
Another friend speaks Finish, French, English and a little Swedish, and Spanish.
Many of my friends speak Spanglish.
I have a sister in law that speaks Korean.
A niece of mine can speak French.
I have a son in Italy, will he pick up that language?
I only speak English. Which other language would I want to learn?

In our town we have people whose mother tongue is quite different.
I have met people who speak, Hindi, Vietnamese, Chinese, Tagalog, Armenian, Arabic.
I know of other languages spoken in our area too, French, Italian, and Portugese.

I think I would like to learn Hindi, or maybe Italian as those two cultures are of great interest to me.
San Diego has many different languages, as does San Fransisco, Chicago and New York.
I thought this news article was very interesting regarding languages. You might enjoy it also.

http://www.clevelandbanner.com/view/full_story/11738670/article-WRIGHT-WAY--Watch-your-language?instance=most_recommended#ixzz1UCkh9mah

Communication is so important! Especially with kind and gracious words.
I must work at this.
I tend to get excitable, I must learn to be calm.
(Could it be the Italian coming out in me?)

Went to the Movies, tonite.

2011-08-11T23:19:00.000-07:00

I don't spend my money on movies very often.
The Help
was one I wanted to see.

I very much liked the story line,
made me cry....
though there were some parts where I did laugh.

Courage in the face of injustice

I would watch it again.
I may have to read this book.

A Day at the Beach!

2011-08-05T08:25:00.000-07:00

We found a new Hat for Dennis!
Just perfect!

Ahhhh...Ocean Air!
Feet in the waves!

My friend, with sand between her toes!
She and I climbed around the tides pools,
just as we have been doing for years.

My feet in the sandy water.

Her poking the sea anemone.

A young man, an instructor of the tide pools,
informed us, we were not to touch or disturb anything,
as these tide pools are protected!

We knew we were not to remove anything,
The young man, was very polite in his policing of us,
however, we did not recieve much instruction from him.

So.... I guess we are common criminals!
She touching
And I disturbing.

You learn something new every day!

Great Visitors from Oakland CA

2011-08-01T09:20:00.000-07:00

Dillion and his freind, Mark with their wives!

Mark is one of my close friend's son,

we have known him since he was a little toddler.

So they have been friends a long, long time.

How happy for them, their wives are friends too!

Mark and Vanessa rode their bikes, as in bicycles

down from Oakland to Santa Barbara, just north of L.A.

They had a great trip, averaged about 40 miles per day.

All four of them, Dillion, Trisha, Mark and Vanessa

rode their bikes from Murrieta to

The Temecula Farmer's Market,

Then ended up at our house.

(We got to have the kids spend the night with us)

How did they get back home?

How many people can you fit in a Scion?

Dallas was way, way in the back, can't see him.

They made it home safe and sound.

I assume they will be back for their bikes.

A SHORT VISIT...

2011-07-22T07:32:00.000-07:00

But OHHHHH Sooooo SWEET!

Porch People!

Hey what's so interesting?

Rocks and ....?

Dale's hops!

And look who stopped in!

Playing with kitty!

Ya'll Come On Back ...now Ya Hear?

These Kids Can Cook!

2011-07-14T07:46:00.000-07:00

Talk about FISH and CHIPS!

Grilled Salmon and fried potatoes with onion rings,
sweet yellow bell peppers, and cheese stuffed jalapenos!
MMMmmmmm good.
I think there was some fluffy rice too!

What a nice surprise after a long week of work.
Friday nite fun listening to music
and eating with son #5 and his lovely wife.

Botanicals

2011-07-08T08:40:00.001-07:00

I have always loved botanical posters and drawings.

These are really beautiful.
Alas, I have no room on my walls for them.

You can find them on www.Botanicalposters.com

Which one do you like the best?

Wild Things around my house

2011-07-02T06:58:00.000-07:00

So, that's what happened to my seedlings!

One, Two... How many kittens do you see?
They may not BE wild, but they ACT wild!

This photo is taken from a window at work.
He looks to be a young hawk.
We all had to stop work a few minutes to admire his beauty.
Very beautiful and a little majestic.

Yep there are THREE wild little kittens.
Getting ready to take a nap on MY bed.

My Own Personal Chef!

2011-06-28T21:12:00.000-07:00

This guy's chicken enchiladas are some of the best!

And what a nice break I get from cooking!

Thanks number 7 for your time and attention!

Saturday Drive into Town

2011-06-26T08:22:00.000-07:00

With Thing One and Thing Two!
We stopped in at the Gluten-Free Bakery
Where Thing Two could pick what ever he wanted!

Stopped in at the Fruit Stand and got STRAWBERRIES!

Flea Market where we picked up some flavored honey sticks.
We also, stopped at the duck pond
and lastly, ended up at the White Lime for some frozen yougurt!
Such a nice afternoon with two of my favorite people.

Porch Life

2011-06-24T17:33:00.000-07:00

What's in the Pot?

2011-06-22T19:31:00.000-07:00

Pork, Pineapple, Red Mole Tamale!
We call them the Islander Tamale.

Jalapeno, cheese with Green Mole'
We call these HOT!

Yep, They turned out GOOD!

Now What did I Make?

2011-06-22T07:43:00.000-07:00

Green chilies, tomatillas, onions, garlic, cilantro.

Cumin, coriander, sesame seeds

Blend together.

Again toast the sesame seeds in olive oil;
Grind to a paste.

Then simmer all together in a pot!
And what do you got?
Green Mole'!

Now what will I do?

What am I Making?

2011-06-21T08:23:00.000-07:00

Here are the ingredients I am using.

First I put the dried chilies in a pot of water,
And bring them to a boil...

Add onion and garlic,
continue boiling.

Remove stems and some seeds
then blend it together.

Put back on stove, simmer.

In the meantime, in a couple of tablespoons of olive oil,
toast a package of sesame seeds and a pinch of cumin seeds.

Grind the toasted seeds in a metate until it is a paste.
(Or you may use 2 Tablespoons of peanut butter)
Add to pot and continue to simmer.

Lastly, add the secret ingredient!
Make sure the chocolate is at least 75% cocao.
90% is the best. Add 1/2 package until it melts in the red MOLE.
Yep, I made a mole sauce.
What do you think I will do with it?

Time to Say Bye Bye

2011-06-14T17:46:00.000-07:00

See you Later!

And there She goes!

A Quick Day Trip

2011-06-14T06:42:00.000-07:00

We saw Pirates singing and dancing on the beach.

I'm always happy in the Ocean Air!
Then on to the main event:

Sid and Eliza were sooooo much fun!

Dakota and Crystal's Day

2011-06-12T07:53:00.000-07:00

Where's Grandma Now?

2011-06-10T22:16:00.000-07:00

Stopping in to see Dale's place.

A work in progress!

Dale and Sheena's great find!

Grandma Has Arrived!

2011-06-10T07:57:00.000-07:00

AND SHE IS DOING GREAT! First Stop Dillion's home.

Just another day with the KIDS!

2011-06-06T06:58:00.000-07:00

Who is the princess now?

Getting ready for the big day!

Cousins playing around!

Who's Winning Now?

2011-06-05T07:47:00.001-07:00

And a Drama too!

2011-06-02T19:16:00.000-07:00

Drama Entitled:
Young Ones -Be Discreet and Wise

Based on Joseph's life experience in Egypt
and how he stayed faithful to God in spite of trials.

Our Most Wonderful Week-end!

2011-05-30T13:23:00.000-07:00

We look forward to our District Convention in San Diego every year and it never disappoints!

Many months and days of prep work goes into making the conventions a success. We appreciate very much our brothers hard work, in order for us to enjoy a clean, comfortable place to learn about our Creator and associate with those who love Jehovah God. Yes, 3 whole days! It truly is a spiritual paradise! A news reporter and a photographer also noticed and gave a fine report to the City of San Diego, thought you might like to see it at:

http://www.voiceofsandiego.org/government/thehall/article_8627dd7a-8812-11e0-bc0d-001cc4c03286.html

Friends old and new
From Murrieta and Mexico

Two brothers working in the security department.

Lunchtime! Just beginning,
in a few moments all the tables are full.

I Just Could Not Help Myself...

2011-05-24T20:06:00.000-07:00

I had to bring them home!
Angel Eyes, Tuco, and Blondie.

They fit right in
and are quite comfortable.

Busy! Busy!..Take Time to Reflect...

2011-05-22T12:47:00.000-07:00

Where we are in the stream of time.

I have been very busy this past week working with my congregation in an inviting work.
We have been inviting our neighbors to attend our district convention with us in San Diego.
Please click on picture to see this invitation clearer. We look forward to our conventions, just as the Israelites of old looked forward to their festivals. It is a joyful, spiritually upbuilding time! May you too benefit from this wonderful provision.

While our Convention is next week-end, there will be other places that will have the same information throughout the summer months. These conventions are held in different parts of the earth. You may be receiving an invitation from the local congregation in your area! If you are interested in more information, for the closest convention held in your area please feel free to call the local congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses in your area.

Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses
1025 S. 24th Street
Mesa, Arizona
480-926-1053

or:
2240 S. 600 E
Salt Lake City, UT
801-487-9456

Home Sweet Home!

2011-05-20T09:01:00.000-07:00

Things I see in my yard.

2011-05-07T10:01:00.000-07:00

Hey! What's going on?

2011-05-05T09:39:00.000-07:00

It is, HOT today!

Is it Summer yet?

ALMOST!

All Dressed up!

2011-04-28T06:26:00.000-07:00

And ready to go!

Lady bugs are great!

2011-04-25T08:42:00.000-07:00

I appreciate lady bugs because they eat aphids off my roses.

I like to check all my flowers for lady bugs. Especially in the springtime!
Do you see any lady bugs?

Here's one!
I'll have to catch this one!

What fun!

2011-04-22T20:19:00.000-07:00

Taking time for one another!

Our young ones!

Cousins are Great!

Trish the Dish, my right hand girl!

Thank you, Ted and Sheila, for spending precious time with us.

"Be still, sad heart!

2011-04-20T08:15:00.000-07:00

and cease repining;

Behind the clouds is the sun still shining."
-Henry Wadworth Longfellow

Sun Shines Thru the Mist-

2011-04-17T08:12:00.000-07:00

Te mec u la

Sometimes the valley fills with mist,
then the sun rises above it and shines thru it.

Every day, we awake to a new masterpiece in the sky.

"The sky is the daily bread of the eyes." -Ralph Waldo Emerson

"My heart leaps up when I behold

2011-04-14T07:16:00.000-07:00

A rainbow in the sky" -William Wordsworth

"...The sure tie

Of thy Lord's hand, the object of His eye!
When I behold thee, though my light be dim
Distinct, and low, I can in thine see Him
Who looks upon thee from His glorious throne,
And minds the covenant between all and One."
-Henry Vaugn (rainbow)

Adding Our Own Color...

2011-04-12T08:10:00.000-07:00

to the SPRING SKY!

Good Morning Sunshine!

2011-04-11T09:13:00.000-07:00

A Morning of Fun in the SNOW!

2011-04-09T07:48:00.000-07:00

April Snowman!

We had a little storm blow through here and it left what may be the last snowfall of the year.
The D man took Thing One and Thing Two and his Lovely to enjoy it!

A Cat Nap

2011-04-07T08:28:00.000-07:00

This is Cleo, though he is called "Useless" by Dion. I think he earns his keep and can come in out of the rain, once in a while. We have no mice problems, or rats!!! And he also hunts gophers and occasionally catches them. (Though gophers are a huge challenge!) You've aleady met his friend 50/50, the neighbors cat, whom we love. Yep, he shares his friends, I think he's a great cat.

Look! My Yard Blossoms!

2011-04-04T07:41:00.001-07:00

April -a Happy Busy Month

2011-04-03T08:23:00.000-07:00

If you click on the picture, you will be able to read this invitation easier.

The next couple of weeks, Jehovah's Witnesses will be busy inviting their neighbors to reflect on what Jesus Christ did for mankind. You are invited to attend the Memorial of Jesus' death and hear an encouraging talk that will point to the Bible for answers to the above questions.

Last year 18 million people worldwide attended this special event. There are only 7 million Jehovah's Witnesses worldwide, so many of our neighbors joined us in this celebration.

Starting on a small island in the Pacific, on April 17, as the sun goes down, millions around the world will gather to observe the Memorial of Christ's death and remember the importance. As the sun sets here in the United States, you too can be part of this global observance. For more information, the following are addresses and phone numbers for your local Kingdom Hall:

1025 S. 24th Street
Mesa, Arizona 85204
480-926-1053

2240 S. 600 E
Salt Lake City, UT
801-487-9456

6850 Northcote Ave
Hammond, IN
219-845-8757

701 Kedzie Ave
University Park, Il
708-534-3776

930 N. State Road 149
Valparaiso, IN
219-762-5556

On May 1st* a special talk will be given at all Kingdom Halls around the world, entitled:

"Bible principles- Can They Help Us To Cope With Today's Problems?"

You will be welcomed wherever you attend.

*Our Congregation is having our special talk on May 8th, because we have our visiting circuit overseer encouraging our congregation on May 1st.

Simple Pleasures- A Sunrise

2011-04-02T07:34:00.000-07:00

I think I need to watch the sun come up more often.
It makes for a very pleasant breakfast.
Looks like we will have an overcast day today.

SUNSHINE

2011-03-31T07:59:00.000-07:00

Came Softly through my window today!

Happy Happy

Rain Rain

2011-03-26T07:39:00.000-07:00

Go Away!

Come again another day!

Did I mention it is balloon season?

Ahhh a little blue sky-
but will it stay?

Thinking of Japan

2011-03-25T08:24:00.000-07:00

The news has given us pictures of the earthquake and the devastation by the tsunami in Japan.
Then we hear of the nuclear power plants, damaged and releasing radiation contaminating food and water sources. How very sad!

As Jehovah's people our hearts go out to all in Japan, enduring this disaster. We especially want to know how our spiritual brothers and sisters are doing. Kindly, our brothers have posted an early report at www.jw-media.org this report brings out that approx. 2,300 witnesses of Jehovah are in the areas affected by the tsunami. On March 15th early reports confirm two of Jehovah's witnesses dead and 115 missing, five Kingdom Halls were destroyed.

I think of our friends in Japan everyday and I know many prayers are being said in their behalf. May they be strengthened to endure the days and weeks ahead.

A Very Nice Visit

2011-03-21T08:29:00.000-07:00

Yep, from our cousin, Paul. Appreciated his time.

I fed him a little beans and rice and Tortilla Soup. But best of all we enjoyed his company.

Balloon Season

2011-03-18T18:21:00.001-07:00

Yes, there is a Balloon Season in Temecula

We get balloons floating by nearly every morning this week

Divine Love Defined

2011-03-17T07:55:00.000-07:00

Love has been described as the greatest need humans have. From the cradle to the grave, people strive for love. Yes, humans thrive in the warmth of love. They may even die from lack of love. People talk a lot about love. There are books and songs and poems about love, but they do not always clarify the meaning of love. In the English language the word "love" has been so overused that it's true meaning seems to be lost.

"Love can be known only by the actions it prompts." The Bible record of God's actions teaches us a great deal about love. The highest example of God's quality of love is His supreme act of love described at John 3:16. In the scriptures, we can find many examples of Jehovah's love in action. And we can gain insight from the ancient Greek words for love used in the Bible.* The one most often used in the Christian Greek Scriptures is a-ga'pe, a love that is guided by principle. This love is more than the emotional response to another person. It is much broader in scope, more thoughtful and deliberate.. Above all, a-ga'pe is totally unselfish. For example, look again at John 3:16. What is "the world" that God loved so much that he gave his only-begotten Son? It is the world of redeemable mankind. That includes many people who are pursuing a sinful course in life. Does Jehovah love each person as a friend, the way he loved faithful Abraham? (James 2:23) No, but Jehovah lovingly extends goodness toward all, even at great cost to himself. He wants all to repent and change their ways. (2 Peter 3:9) Many do change, these He happily receives as his friends. Jehovah's love often includes tender affection. However, his love is never swayed by mere sentiment. It is always guided by his wise and just principles. As we have seen, Jehovah's qualities of Power, Wisdom and Justice are sterling, perfect, and appealing. However, LOVE is the most appealing and nothing draws us to powerfully to Jehovah. Why?

"God is Love"
The scriptures do not say that God is power or that God is justice, or even that God is wisdom. He possesses those qualities, is the ultimate source of them, and beyond comparison in regard to these three. Something very profound is said about the fourth quality, "God is love"-1 John 4:8. What does that mean?

"God is love" is not a simple equation, as if to say "God equals love". The statement cannot be reversed and say, "love is God". Jehovah is much more than an abstract quality. He is a person with a wide array of feelings and characteristics in addition to love. "God's essence or nature is love". Jehovah's power enables him to act. His justice and his wisdom guide the way he acts. But Jehovah's love motivates him to act. And his love is always present in the way he uses his other qualities.

Jehovah is the personification of love. If we want to learn about principled love, we must learn about Jehovah. When we love in an unselfish, principled way, we are reflecting Jehovah's dominant quality. It is just as the apostle John wrote: "As for us, we love, because he first loved us". -1 John 4:19.

*The verb, phi-le'o, meaning "to have affection for, to be fond of, or to like (as one might feel for a close friend or brother)," is often used in the Christian Greek Scriptures (New Testament). The word stor-ge' or close familial love, is used at 2 Timothy 3:3 to show that such love would be lacking during the last days. E'ros, or romantic love between the sexes, is not used in the Christian Greek Scriptures, although it is discussed in the Bible at Proverbs 5:15-20.

An Interesting and Tasty Treat!

2011-03-12T07:21:00.000-08:00

Rice-Pudding Mango Parfait

I very much enjoyed this Indian Dessert!
It has a spicy taste with cardamon
and the Mango was so refreshing! MMmmmm
I will make this again!

For the recipe visit: www.indiansimmer.com/2011/02/celebrating-you-blogiversary-with-rice.html

Look Who Stopped By.

2011-03-12T07:08:00.001-08:00

We seem to always have something land in our yard.
I believe this is an eget.

He's actually pretty tall.
If you click on the picture you may get a better view

These birds like to be near cattle.
Looks like he may have found a lizard.
This one stayed all morning.

"O the Depth of God's ...Wisdom"

2011-03-10T12:06:00.001-08:00

-Romans 11:33

What is Divine Wisdom?

Wisdom is not the same as knowledge. However, they are related. Wisdom brings knowledge, discernment, and understanding together and puts them to work. Some Bible words translated "wisdom" literally mean, "practical wisdom".

Jehovah's wisdom is not theoretical. It is practical, and it works. Jehovah always makes the best decisions possible, carrying them out the best way possible. ..."wisdom is proved righteous by its works" -Matt 11:19. Jehovah's works throughout the universe give powerful testimony to his wisdom

Evidences of Divine Wisdom

"I shall laud you because in a fear-inspiring way I am wonderfully made. Your works are wonderful, as my soul is very well aware."-Ps. 139:14.

The more we learn about our human bodies the more we are aware of Jehovah's wisdom.

For instance: We each started as a single cell- an egg cell from mother, fertilized by sperm cell from father. The cell started to divide, as the cells of the embryo continue to divide, they assume very different functions. Some become nerve cells, others bone, muscle, blood, or eye cells. All the differentiation is programmed into the cell's "library" of genetic blueprints, the DNA. Interestingly, David was inspired to say to Jehovah:

"Your eyes saw even the embryo of me, and in your book all its parts were down in writing."
-Ps 139:16.

"How many your works are, O Jehovah! All af them in wisdom you have made. The earth is full of your productions." -Ps 104:24.

Yes, there are many examples of Jehovah's creative wisdom. Consider the ant. Ant colonies are superbly organized. Some ants tend, shelter, and draw nourishment from insects called, aphids, as if they were livestock. Other ants act as farmers, raising and cultivating "crops" of fungus. They are "instinctively wise", programmed the do remarkable things by instinct. (Proverbs 30:24, 25.) Scientists have learned much from Jehovah's creative wisdom. There is even a field of engineering, called biomimetrics, that seeks to mimic designs found in nature.

Wisdom beyond the Earth

Thanks to the wisdom of Jehovah's "celestial laws" the heavens are beautifully organized into structured galaxies that, in turn are grouped into clusters, that in turn are grouped into superclusters. (Job 38:33, -New Jerusalem Bible)

Jehovah has organized the physical heavens in his wisdom, that is one of the reasons for his title: "Jehovah of armies." Another reason "Jehovah of armies" is appropriate is because of his position as Supreme Commander of a huge army of hundreds of millions of spirit creatures. These angelic ministers of the the Most High are higher than man, superintelligent and superpowerful. Each endowed with free will. (Heb. 1:7; 2:7). Yet, by his wisdom, Jehovah keeps these angels busy, happily engaged in fulfilling work- "carrying out his word" and "doing his will" -for billions of years. (Psalms 103:20, 21). How awesome the wisdom of this Administrator must be!

Jehovah is "Wise Alone"

Jehovah alone possesses wisdom in the absolute sense. He is the source of all true wisdom. (Pr 2:6) That is why Jesus, though the wisest of Jehovah's creatures, did not rely on his own wisdom but spoke as his Father directed him. -John 12:48-50. When we contemplate Jehovah's wisdom, it is as if we were looking into a bottomless chasm, a realm so deep, so limitless and huge we could never grasp its immensity. Psalms 92:5 states: "How great your works are, O Jehovah! Very deep your thoughts are." What a humbling thought!

Jehovah is "wise alone" in another sense: Only he is able to peer into the future. Yes, Jehovah can look, "far into the distance" of time- the future. The Bible is full of evidence that this is true. It contains hundreds of prophecies, or history written in advance. The outcome of wars, the rise and fall of world powers, and even the specific battle strategies of military commanders were all foretold in the Bible- in some cases, hundreds of years in advance. (Please compare: Isaiah 44:25-45:4; Daniel 8:2-8, 20-22).

God's quality of foreseeing the future does not mean that God has already foreseen the choices you will make in life. Some who preach predestination say that God already knows what each of us will choose. However, that teaching actually undermines Jehovah's wisdom, it implies that he cannot control his ability to look into the future. Example: A singer with a beautiful voice, does not sing constantly all the time! That could even become irritating to those around the singer. The singer chooses to sing at specific times. Jehovah has the ability to foreknow the future, but he does not use it all the time. To do so might infringe upon our own free will, a precious gift that Jehovah will never take away.-Deut 30:19, 20. The teaching of predestination paints our Heavenly Father's wisdom as cold, with no heart, no feeling, no compassion. That is totally opposite of our Loving Creator who is "wise in heart" -Job 9:4. So Jehovah's wisdom, like his other qualities, is governed by love.
-1 John 4:8

Jehovah's wisdom is perfectly trustworthy.

"Trust in Jehovah with all your heart and do not lean upon your own understanding. In all your ways take notice of him, and he himself will make your paths straight"
-Pr 3:5, 6.

Jehovah wisely chose to have his words put down in writing. He instructed Moses: "Write down for yourself these words, because it is in accordance with these words that I do conclude a covenant with you and Israel." (Ex 34:27) Jehovah has truly blessed us by communicating with us in writing. The Holy Scriptures are like a letter to us from a loving Father. A letter we can read over and over again meditating on God's thoughts and directions. We can be like the psalmist who wrote: "But his delight is in the law of Jehovah, and in his law he reads in an undertone day and night."-Ps 1:2

Some may claim that the Bible's message has been changed over the years through the imperfections of man's copying it over and over, that it is unreliable. However, when we think of how God has the power to keep galaxies in place, is it reasonable to conclude that He cannot keep his "word" pure? Jesus showed full confidence in the written word when in prayer to Jehovah he said, "...your word is truth" (John 17:17) We too can have the same confidence in this precious letter from our wise Heavenly Father. As we continue to read and study God's word, we can recieve much "comfort from the Scriptures" whenever we need it. -Romans 15:4

Of all the qualities that Jehovah possesses, love is the dominate one. Next we can examine why the Bible says, "God is love" -1 John 4:8