FREE Information for Wannabe Writers

As a last ditch effort to present a year end and New Year gift to my readers, I have placed the above Titled Subject on my other Blog at http:fourwinds.blogster.com All details are included and its F R E E! Thanks for visiting. - Bob Happy New Year!

Christmas in the Workplace

According to the article that follows (below), perhaps the title ought to read: Christmas or ? Has our society gone mad? What ever happened to the Spirit of Christmas? There has been an element in our society working much harder to destroy Christmas than those who would work to keep it as wonderful as it has always been.Does this article reveal a people that have gone "over the edge."? Christmas is a beautiful time that naturally invites everyone to recognize Goodness and leaves no one out - no matter who they are or where they are in the world, whether at home or away. Good people have allowed the beauty that is for everyone to become tarnished, corrupted and confused. Please do not get me wrong, not all peoples have abandoned the holiness that is the true meaning of the season - the birthday celebration of our Creator - God Man, Who came to us as a Child, relying on a teenager for His care. No, we still account for millions upon millions who know the truth and look forward to the proper and appropriate celebrations due Him. The following article, quoted by permission, will explain what is happening in the marketplace and in social circles by utterly misguided, gutless individuals responsible for turning Christmas into unbelievable indignities, and others going along indifferent to their cause. Merry Christmas! Wherever you may be. Yes, it is right to wish others Merry Christmas instead of their conventional, concocted greetings. You do not have to go along with those pathetic individuals and groups who would have you join them in their active intent to denigrate the true meaning of Christmas.

Article Quoted

Catholic League president Bill Donohue discusses what’s going on: “Cindy Wigglesworth, founder of Conscious Pursuits, says Christmas represents a ‘challenge’ to employers. The so-called challenge is how to have ‘an enthused workforce and be faith-friendly and faith-neutral and not violate any laws.’ She does not say what laws might be violated, but apparently she wants to guard against the prospect of someone calling 911. In any event, she has a mind of her own: ‘We’d much rather bring your child to work than bring your faith to work. We have not had a safe way to talk about faith.’ But what if your child comes to work and tells everyone ‘Merry Christmas’? Isn’t that dangerous? “Dawn Frazier-Bohnert works at a global consulting firm, and she advises employers not to hold a Christmas party—call it a ‘year-end’ bash, instead. She recommends ‘vegetarian alternatives’ at the dinner, ‘and be conscious that serving alcohol at parties might make some employees uncomfortable.’ There’s the rub: those who want to booze it up will also feel uncomfortable if the purists prevail. Flasks might work. “Simma Lieberman specializes in ‘Diversity and Inclusion,’ and it shows: she wants us to celebrate ‘Diwali,’ along with non-Hindu holidays. But, she cautions, ‘Make sure your holiday party isn’t a Christmas party in disguise.’ Good idea. However, she does not say what to do if some smart aleck asks what holiday is being celebrated at Christmastime. “Sondra Thiederman is another ‘Diversity’ expert, and she warns against Christmas decorations, recommending instead ‘flowers, balloons, candles and snowflakes.’ She also counsels against Christmas songs, suggesting ‘historical music, the big bands and the sounds of the ‘40s.’ No rap or heavy metal? “Viacom has the best house rule: ‘Live trees solely for the purpose of a holiday decoration are not permitted.’ Those fake ones are okay. “So this is what our troops are defending in Iraq—the right of Anti-Christmas Czars to promote thought control in America.” Susan A. Fani Director of Communications Catholic League for Religious and Civil Rights catalyst@catholicleague.org New York, NY 10123 212-371-3191 212-371-3394 (fax)

Unquote

Thanks for visiting.- Bob The Christchild, the God of Peace be with you

Auto Bailout

" We can't solve problems by using

the same kind of thinking we used

when we created them."

- Albert Einstein

http://www.newsmax.com/ Thurs Nov 20, 2008 gives us this article titled: "Ten Reasons Why the Auto Bailout Is a Bad Idea"

The article provides sound reasoning, pretty much as the above quote from Albert Einstein. Visit Newsmax for more timely reading.

P.S. I also agree wholeheartedly with Mitt Romney when he says that the automakers ought to go bankrupt and start afresh. I add that Taxpayers should not be a pawn in this game that seems to be getting worse each day.

Thanks for visiting. - Bob "toujours en vedette"

Boycott Target Stores

I have received surprising and damnable news about Target's (local and national) attitude toward American Veterans (the source that makes it possible for Target to even exist); I am asking you to boycott that store across America. Read the entire story just published at my other blog. "We Don't Have to Take It Anymore!" Click here http://fourwinds.blogster.com/ God bless America, and all the warriors that have and are keeping her safe. Thanks for visiting. - Bob

Messed Up Facts

The subject, referring to a Bible Knowledge Test (from my archives) is published on my blog at: http://fourwinds.blogster.com I have tied it to what is going on today, over ten years later, with reference to the gay and lesbian movement, and those who aid and assist in their progress. Go there by clicking on the link. You may not believe what you see there. Thanks for visiting. - Bob Rom. 13: 12-14

Obama Revelations

Dear visitor. Rather than retype a very important article just published on my other Blog, I invite you to go there now. The title is: Revelations About Obama Keep Coming. Just click here> http://fourwinds.blogster.com/ May you have and experience a happy month of November. Thanks for visiting. - Bob Spend your Vote wisely for the future...

Obama Notes

A Newsmax survey of key Obama aspects of Obama’s public and private life continued to be shielded from the public. Among the examples: Obama has released just one brief document detailing his personal health. McCain, on the other hands, released what he said was his complete medical file totaling more than 1500 pages. After criticism on the matter, last week the Obama campaign also released some routine lab-test results and electrocardiograms for Obama. All test results appeared normal, but many details about his health remain a mystery. Obama has refused to offer his official papers as a state legislator in Illinois, and has been unable to produce correspondence, such as letters from lobbyists and other correspondence from his days in the Illinois state senate. There are also no appointment calendars available of his official activities. “It could have been thrown out,” Obama said while on the campaign trail during the Democratic primary. “I haven’t been in the state Senate now for quite some time.” Obama has not released his client list as an attorney or his billing records. Obama has maintained that he only performed a few hours of legal work for a nonprofit organization with ties to Tony Rezko, the Chicago businessman convicted of fraud in June. But he has not released billing records that would prove this assertion. Obama won’t release his college records from Occidental College where he studied for two years before transferring to Columbia. Obama’s campaign refuses to give Columbia University, where he earned an undergraduate degree in political science, permission to release his transcripts. Such transcripts would list the courses Obama took, and his grades. President George W. Bush, and presidential contenders Al Gore and John Kerry, all released their college transcripts. (McCain has refused to release his Naval Academy transcript.) Obama’s college dissertation has simply disappeared from Columbia Universities archives. In July, in response to a flurry of requests to review Obama’s senior thesis at the Ivy League school, reportedly titled “Soviet Nuclear Disarmament,” Obama spokesman Ben LaBolt told NBC News “We do not have a copy of the course paper you requested and neither does Columbia University.” The senator has not agreed to the release of his application to the Illinois state bar, which would clear up intermittent allegations that his application to the bar may have been inaccurate. Jim Geraghty of the National Review has written extensively about Obama’s unwillingness to release records related to clients he represented while he was an attorney with the Chicago law firm of Davis, Miner, Barnhill, and Gallard. Obama was required to list his clients during his years in the Illinois senate. “Obama listed every client of the firm,” Geraghty reported, making it impossible to discern which clients he represented. Obama has never released records from his time at Harvard Law School. Obama also has not disclosed the names of small donors giving $200 or less to his campaign. An exception to the finance-reporting laws exempts the campaign from reporting those who donate less than $200, but that law never envisioned the more than $300 million that has been raised by Obama in small amounts. The Republican National Committee has released its small donors, as well as McCain’s, on a public database. This fresh information thanks to Newsmax.com. Thanks for visiting. - Bob - toujours en vedette

Cautions and MoneySaving Tips

The reason I make an article out of these subjects is that I know that they are for real - the cautions are being perpetrated; and the tips are valid and are being offered.

Cautions

1. Two scams in one: A phony job offer plus a check-cashing scam are being used to target job seekers. Scammers place an ad for the often heard of "Secret or Mystery Shopper" opportunity. These are supposedly people who are paid to go shopping in their free time to evaluate services or products. They are promised pay plus free clothing, hotel stays and restaurant meals.

People who answer the ad receive materials by mail, including a check that they are told to deposit as paid training money. They cash the check, keep the predetermined pay for themselves and wire the rest of the money back to the company address.

Reality: The checks are forgeries. Weeks after depositing them, victims learn that the checks are phony and that they must repay the bank the amount they sent to the scammers. Scammers can make $1,000 or more per victim. (BBB, Louisville, KY)

2. You have either heard of this next one, or unwittingly participated, or received their mailings. Beware of investment salespeople who label themselves "senior specialists" at seminars in hotels and restaurants. These people, who may call themselves "Retirement Counselors" or "Senior Counselors" may have little or no investment training. They may urge attendees to sell off their investments and put the proceeds into other products, including some that have high commissions and early withdrawal penalties.

Before consenting to or giving money to anyone claiming special expertise in investments for seniors, read the SEC article Check Out Brokers and Investment Advisors, available at www.sec.gov/investor/brokers.htm

(SEC, Washington, DC)

Money Saving Tips

1. I spied this one Oct 15, 2008 (to let you know it's current) in one of my incoming publications. You are invited to go to: www.MoneySavingGuide.com for advice on saving money and spending wisely on travel, entertainment, groceries, utilities, banking and more. The site features articles, blog posts and other tools and resources on the Web, as well as suggestions from readers and a FREE monthly

E-mail newsletter.

2. I have just concluded attending to my eye needs. This tip came to me after the fact, but perhaps you may find it can save you some precious dollars. The advice is: "Shop around for eyeglasses." This is sound advice because you would be surprised that the same pair of glasses priced recently at $178 to $390 depended on where it was bought. Really! There is price variation in lenses and in frames.

Doctors and independent optical shops tend to charge more but provide more personal service. Chain stores often make glasses in about an hour and may offer discounts for members of AARP, AAA and other groups. Warehouse clubs offer low prices and, in some cases, do not require membership for eyeglass purchases. But get this: Internet merchants may offer the lowest prices of all. "One, Zenni Optical, offers eyeglasses (frames and lenses) starting as low as $8."

Eyeglasses and frames, like jewelry, have a tremendous markup in price when, in fact, the materials' cost itself is not hefty. To save money it always pays to do your homework before stepping out to shop.

Thanks for visiting. - Bob "Always on the look-out"

Selective Reporting by the Media

Isn't it amazing how swiftly the media can investigate and report on an unknown such as "Joe the Plumber" and withhold pertinent information about Barak H. Obama from the public because of their biased agenda? From this simple happening a few days ago, you ought to learn that YOU will need to do your own research for the truth of anything nowadays. Just because it's in print, you can no longer assume that it is the truth; just because it isn't in print, you can no longer assume that you have had the entire truth reported - that's BIAS. No two ways about it. And, believe it or not, bias reporting has been going on for about 45 years, shaping the way people think - if they think at all any more. With newspapers losing ground to computers, and computers available in most, if not all, libraries, there's no way you need to feel "ignorant" about issues and what is going on in this world. Of course if truth is not important to you, none of this means anything. On the other hand, if truth IS important to you, you will need to accept the responsibility for searching truth out. There are FIVE BIG MEN available to help you. They're invaluable questions leading to truth of a matter. I refer to: WHO? WHAT? WHERE? WHEN? HOW? Oftimes adding WHY? can be surprisingly helpful. If the media wants to treat you like a simpleton or an ignorant fool by giving you only what they want you to know, you don't need to cooperate. When you find yourself reading something (even your local newspaper), invoke the FIVE BIG MEN to see if you're reading a full story. If you agree that you're receiving faulty reporting, which, unfortunately, is likely, do yourself a favor and abandon that source of reporting. Belonging to an on-line activist organization may bring you full, current news of what's going on here, there, everywhere, and what's being done by WHO, WHEN, AND WHERE. There's no substitute to accurate reporting (once proudly called Journalism). The next time you pick up something to read, you now know what to do to determine whether it deserves your time. Joe the Plumber was interesting but not worthy of our time; it just proved the unjust activity of a bias media biding time and ignoring what is truly important - the countdown to casting our privileged Vote for the next president of the United States. If you want your vote to be taken seriously (and you definitely should), why are there not reports of what is being done about the highly questionable goings on, such as fraud at the Ballot Boxes involving 100's of thousands of ballots already cast - in at least 11 states - that, because of its association with Barak Obama, it's not being accurately reported? We can know all about Joe the Plumber in swift time, why not report about what has been and is going on that seriously threatens our individual vote? After all, it's just a matter of days before the critical hour! Reporters have all the help they need with the FBI supposedly investigating, so they ought to be able to jump on it - if they weren't biased. Thanks for visiting. - Bob carpe diem

Liberals Shifting the Blame

Truth cannot be hidden and will always be known and revealed

For years, liberals in Congress pushed government-sponsored mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to achieve their policy ends even as they avoided fixing the organizations' abuses. Now that the financial markets are unsteady, they want to pin the blame not on these government-sponsored enterprises but on free enterprise. The Left is looking to spin the economic crisis to their own advantage, Heritage Foundation expert Ernest Istook argues on Human Events Online. They know "that whoever shapes public understanding of what caused today's economic crisis can shape America's politics -- and its future -- for a great many years to come. Thus, they're pushing the notion that too little government regulation was at fault.' In fact, lack of regulation is only part of the story. It wasn't too little regulation of private financial firms that's to blame—if anything, laws like the Community Reinvestment Act went too far, Istook says—but too little regulation of government-sponsored companies like Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Despite early and prescient warnings from experts including Heritage's Ron Utt, liberals collaborated with Fannie and Freddie to avoid taking responsibility for their failure. Heritage president Ed Feulner explains how they achieved this: Fannie and Freddie evaded attempts to regulate them. A big reason is that they cultivated powerful friends in Congress, such as Sen. Christopher Dodd, D-Conn. As chair of the Senate banking committee, he pocketed more than $165,000 in campaign contributions from people associated with Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Over in the House, the GSEs also enjoyed vocal support. "These two entities -- Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac -- are not facing any kind of financial crisis," Rep. Barney Frank, now head of the House Banking Committee, said in 2003. "The more people exaggerate these problems, the more pressure there is on these companies, the less we will see in terms of affordable housing." Today, these same liberals who for so long resisted doing anything about Fannie and Freddie are now crying out for a Congressional investigation. "Clearly, these gentlemen cannot credibly lead an investigation into the collapse of the very companies they championed," Feulner argues. To get at the real root of the financial crisis, Feulner proposes a "Financial Crisis Commission," independent of the Congress. And what might this commission find? Feulner says that "a fair and complete investigation seems likely to confirm that wisdom by revealing that many of today's problems were triggered by our elected officials -- not by a failure of the free market." (The above is courtesy of The Heritage Foundation of which I am a proud member.) Thanks for visiting. - Bob II Tim 4:2

Bravo! Encore!

With all the stress of the day, you know, bail out and all that is connected with it, a wee bit of lightheartedness is called for. So consider this situation and, if you care to, circulate it.

A Moving Speech

Eleven people - 10 men and a woman - were lifted to apparent safety from the roof of a burning building by grabbing a rope dropped by a rescue helicopter. There was a problem. As the chopper labored to gain altitude, it quickly became clear that the rope they were holding wasn't quite strong enough to carry 11 people. The solution was clear, they realized one of them had to let go or they'd all perish.

Unable to decide on who'd make the ultimate sacrifice by letting go - and there were no volunteers, an unselfish decision had to be made, and quickly.

Finally, with everyone clinging tightly to the rope, the woman gave a touching speech when she said: "I'll let go because, as a woman, I'm used to giving up everything for my husband and kids, or for men in general, and for always making sacrifices with little in return."

As soon as she finished, all the men began clapping their hands.

Thanks for visiting. -Bob toujours en vedette

Students' New Pledge of Allegiance

(I received this back in May 08, and is alledged to have been written by a 15 year old student. I have no reason to doubt this.) Since the Pledge of Allegiance and the Lord's Prayer are not allowed in most public schools anymore because the name "God" is mentioned, a youngster in Arizona penned this expression of the "times."

New School Prayer

Now I sit me down in school, where praying is against the rule;

For this great nation under God, finds mention of Him very odd.

If Scripture now the class recites, it violates the Bill of Rights.

And anytime my head I bow, becomes a Federal matter now.

Our hair can be purple, orange or green, that's no offense - it's a freedom scene.

The law is specific, the law is precise. Prayers spoken aloud are a serious vice.

For praying in a public hall might offend someone with no faith at all.

In silence alone we must meditate, God's name is prohibited by the state.

We're allowed to cuss and dress like freaks, and pierce our noses, tongues and cheeks.

They've outlawed guns, but FIRST the Bible. To quote the Good Book makes me liable.

We can elect a pregnant Senior Queen, And the 'unwed daddy,' our Senior King.

It's "inappropriate" to teach right from wrong, We're taught that such "judgments" do not belong.

We can get our condoms and birth controls, study witchcraft, vampires and totem poles. But the Ten Commandments are not allowed, no word of God must reach this crowd.

It's scary here I must confess, when chaos reigns the school's a mess.

So, Lord, this silent plea I make: Should I be shot, my soul please take! Amen.

Thanks for visiting. May the God of peace be with you

- Bob

P.S. Feel free to pass this piece along to others. Especially students returning to school (school?). P.P.S. Whatever happened to the once powerful, respected Parent-Teachers-Association (PTA). Seldom hear or read of this association anymore. Seems to me that it is sorely needed in this "anything goes" era.

Risks

Experience tells me that when we grow old and gray few of us regret the things we have done. Most of our regrets are about what we failed to do. There is an element of risk in nearly everything we do, especially for the first time. All new relationships are a risk; islolation is a much greater risk, for it nullifies all the wonderful possibilities that are opened when we make new contacts. Are you fearful of making change? Not the empty, undiscriptive change that a present candidate for president is declaring, but changes that take place in a life. I am not afraid of change, but, in retrospect, I recall being hesitant on occasion. My last big change was one month before my 70th. Moving lock, stock and barrel, as it were, to a completely new location over 150 miles from where we resided. It was a new adventure, like starting all over again. That was a few years ago. I have nothing else planned - but who knows. I try to keep an open mind. My many years in the old military took me to numerous places to work and live. So many moves became ingrained and part of me. Each assignment was considered an adventure. Plan carefully, set your goal and "Be bold." Being afraid to take risks can be detrimental to your maturing at any age. It is a rare pleasure to see a younger, rational person who is not afraid to take risks. As we age we become cautious, perhaps more from facing uncertainties than wisdom. I recall a TV ad that said: "The greatest risk is not taking one." I have to agree. We all take chances, but some risk more than others. Some people are afraid of flying; it is a rare person who has never made a trip by air. I have seen much of our globe, including our country, from the air. Albiet that was when air travel was a real pleasure, regardless of how far the destination. Made an approximately 3000 mile trip by air a year ago, a trip that felt like 3000 miles. The delays in and out on the tarmac was unbelievable. Honest, I couldn't believe what was happening. I vowed that it would be a cold day in hades before I volunteered to elect air travel ever again. It's a risk just to travel by car any meaningful distance anymore, because, I believe the records show us to be at greater risk when we're in an auto. It would not be an exgeration to say that I've driven at least a half million miles in my time. My miles today are less than the annual minimum recorded by the insurance companies. I count my blessings that I have lived during a time that wasn't so harried, could truly enjoy travel by virtually any means (except camel), making memories out of many enjoyable moments - even if it took risks and hours to get to where you were going. Never allow all the negative thoughts to stop you. Just remember that when you are old they are the ones that will haunt you. Of course the key to enjoying what you're going to do is planning, making the right choice in the first place. For the record, I have few, if any regrets. I've been blessed with a full life. Having started my life in the worst of times, I went on to make it the best of times, regardless of the circumstances. A powerful lesson to learn is that "Attitude makes all the difference." So keep a check on yours. I have two blogs (this one and one at http://fourwinds.blogster.com/) at which I try to share many beliefs in a variety of subjects with readers willing to spend a little of their time with me. You see there are some things I want to share before it's too late. As it was often said: "That's where I'm coming from." So let's stay busy living life to the fullest today; don't hesitate to take reasonable risks that you really want to take. Memories are made of such. As for tomorrow? Tomorrow is always a day away. Greet each new day with thanks. Be grateful. There's always someone less fortunate than yourself. Just be sure that your life is what you want to make of it - life that you can look back on with no regrets. Thanks for visiting. - Bob (1 Cor 13)

Riverside Walk

A blonde Obama voter was out for a walk. She comes to a river and sees another blonde on the opposite bank. "Yoo-hoo" she shouts, "How can I get to the other side?" The second blonde looks up the river and down the river and shouts back: "You are on the other side." The next day this same blonde is stopped for a speeding ticket and is asked for her drivers license. She was surprised, and in a huff replied: "I wish you guys would get your act together. Just yesterday you take away my license and then today you expect me to show it to you!" Thanks for visiting. - Bob toujours en vedette

Proof that God Exists

(The following is exerpted from one of my articles: God's Perfect Planet Earth.) When I read about athiests and other unbelievers doubting the existence of God, I have to wonder where they come from. Where did their ability to think for themselves get stuck. While thinking about this awful situation I got to thinking about the simplest way to explain God's existence. Though many try, some succeed others fail. I thought "Just one more way to explain God's existence would do no harm." So you are welcome to stick around and read on. My thought turned to the dawn of creation as described in Genesis. Without going through the entire story, I focused on our perfect Planet Earth. First, I thought, how it was that the Sun is not so close to us as to burn us to a crisp; not so far from us to freeze us to death. Then I asked myself what it takes to survive on this beautiful earth. The word Water came to mind. Let us follow that element necessary to sustain life we call water. We know that water turns foul when it remains for some time without being stirred. Have you ever seen a neglected swimming pool? Ugh. Now ask yourself how it is that though it is shut in one place the water of the sea never, ever turns foul? I imagine you have never thought about it. The reason our earthly water does not become foul is that the goodness of God has provided against this by the constant motion of the sea. Twice a day the water flows from the center of the sea towards the shore and back again. Twice a day since the dawn of creation! Beside this, from time to time God sends winds and storms which stir the sea to its very depths. Reading about these things in comfort, we now know why the water is stirred up. The whole of creation testifies to God. Plant life and inhabitants of planet earth cannot survive without water. They need continued nourishment to survive, i.e. live. This undeniably requires a steady supply of water. God, in His infinite wisdom provided as no other could. This is what He did for our existence: Rivers and streams ceaselessly flow into the sea, carrying into it - even in a single day - a tremendous volume of water. This goes on all the year round; has been going on for ages. Yet the sea does not overflow. Have you ever wondered about the rivers and streams as you looked at, pondered about, crossed paths with them? I have, numerous times, as I grew up - and into adulthood - even nowadays. It is only natural. I will guess that you have given them some thought as well, however fleeting, as you encountered them. In His great plan, God has made it that as much water is incessantly rising into the air from the sea as is being poured into it. Where does that volume of water, which pours into the sea come from? The mists and clouds which rise from the sea are driven over the land by the wind, and fall back on earth in the form of dew, fog, rain or snow. Imagine that! What a marvelous system He has in place! The essential moisture which is necessary to the life of all plants and growth, and people and beasts of the earth is always in motion. Even as we sleep. We have nothing to do with keeping this motion alive.

Planet Earth

Allow me to make an observation about our planet and its inhabitants. Picture, if you will, in your minds eye, the beautiful blue ball that an American astronaut took as the Picture of all Pictures of our planet earth from way out in space, from his spaceship. We rightly and almost instinctively make comments out loud or to ourselves in amazement at the beautiful sight our earth radiates when viewed from outer space.

Take a good hard look at our planet. Then ask yourself if you believe that the makeup of Earth - and the position of the Sun - was a coincidence, an accident, a freak of nature, etc.?

Do you honestly believe that this perfect planet could have "just happened?" or could have been made by some man-created god? Some "Big Bang" theory? et al.? When necessary I do not hesitate shouting "No way!" But if you do give consideration to such dribble that usually comes from scientists and/or astronomers (of all people), I urge you to think again. It deserves your careful thought.

Planet earth was created by God Himself, especially for man and beasts. We must accept the fact that all our problems here on earth are man-made. Not one imperfection is from the time of creation. We are negligent in caring for this wonderful piece of real estate orbiting the sun and within our own galaxy.

Look Up

The next time you look up into the cosmos, be grateful for all you survey. You do not see the stars during the day, but they are still there. As the night cover shows much of its splender and magnificence, sigh a grateful sigh to the God Who created this perfect planet for those He loves. It is really not complicated to understand. Get your sorry thoughts out of the way of your natural instincts that want to say "Thank you Lord, for your overflowing abundance. We have more than we need to live on this blue gem called Earth. Thank you. Amen."

Thanks for visiting. - Bob May the God of Love and Peace be with you

My Favorite Old G.I. Recipe

Treasure Found

It has been years since I was able to walk into a Dining (Mess) Hall and feast on Chipped Beef (really hamburger), preferred title S.O.S. (Those who know the meaning need no explanation.) Let me tell you that this is a prized meal by those who can look past the image sitting on your plate on top of toast. As is often said: "Looks can be deceiving." In this case it is definitely so. "Um mm good." But, it has to be made properly, according to the recipe book set up for hundreds of hungry uniformed personnel.

Now, having said all that, let me share with you my recent discovery. I can shout "Eureka! I found it!" Yep, I found the long lost recipe for S.O.S. in an old Recipe Book of years gone by. And, as you have learned by now, if you are a visitor to my blog(s), I find satisfaction in sharing those things I really enjoy in life. Today that does not cover lots of territory, however. Nevertheless,I find that that makes my blogs more valuable for the reader. Naturally you always have the choice of whether or not to read them. They are all FREE.

All right, for those of you who have hung up your uniform and can still remember your morning visits to the Mess Hall; or those of you who have a veteran in the house, or know of a veteran in the family, or a neighbor who might just drool in knowing the recipe for S.O.S. here is how to make a friend of that person or persons in your life or in your neighborhood. Incidentally, this dish, found in this old recipe book, with the title Chipped Beef, is claimed to be a classic Sunday supper in New England. I honestly do not know about that, having spent my first 17 years in that part of the world; I had never heard of it until my (fond) military Basic Training hundreds of miles to the south.

NOTE: Though inexpensive (which today is an attraction), you can make this with chipped beef BUT I prefer hamburger (i.e. ground beef). So substitute hamburger for chipped beef and we will be correct for the G.I.'s sumptuous breakfast. Adjust for the amount preferred. Here's the basic: Prep time: 5 Min. Cooking time: 12 Min .

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter or margarine
• 5 ounces ground beef
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 21/4 cups low-fat (1% milkfat) milk
• 1/4 teaspoon each black pepper and paprika
• 1/8 teaspoon ground red pepper (cayenne)
• 2 slices white bread, toasted.

1. In a 12-inch nonstick skillet, melt the butter over moderate heat. Add the beef and saute for 1 minute. Stir in the flour until the beef is well coated. Gradually stir in the milk, then the black pepper, paprika, and ground red pepper.

2. Cook, uncovered, stirring frequently, for ten minutes or until thickened. Spoon over the toast. Makes 1 servings.

Now you can never, never say that I did not do you a special favor. I did. I shared my most important old G.I. meal recipe with you for the 4th of July. If you will take on the responsibility for making S.O.S. surprise someone you know that would understand by asking "What do you know about the G.I. favorite meal S.O.S.?" (Then, let them speak.) Good skill!

Thanks for visiting. - Bob

Have a wonderful Fourth of July 2008!

Military Veteran News

This message is particularly for "un-uniformed servicemembers, military retirees, and veterans." It appears that Congress has finally heard the expressions of discontent with present practices dealing with the Hand Salute. Quasi-military, veterans and other organizations, and their members, are asked to pass the following informational change along to their fellow members and all other veterans they know and meet. And, if you are not a veteran but know someone who is, relative or neighbor, please share this information with those who qualify. Thank you.

Here's what's new:

The National Defense Authorization Act of 2008 contained an amendment to allow those I described above, to render a hand salute during the hoisting, lowering, or passing of the U.S. Flag. The amendment does not address saluting the flag during the playing of the national anthem, pledge of allegiance, honors (i.e.Taps), or any other saluting situation. (I am of the opinion that there is no wrong time to Salute. You be the judge at the time and at the situation.) The excerpt from H.R. 4986 reads: "SEC. 594. CONDUCT BY MEMBERS OF THE ARMED FORCES AND VETERANS OUT OF UNIFORM DURING HOISTING, LOWERING, OR PASSING OF UNITED STATES FLAG. "Section 9 of title 4, United States Code, is amended by striking 'all persons present' and all that follows through the end of the section, and inserting the following: 'all persons present in uniform should render the military salute. Members of the Armed Forces and veterans who are present but not in uniform may render the military salute. All other persons present should face the flag and stand at attention with their right hand over the heart, or, if applicable, remove their headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart. Citizens of other countries present should stand at attention. All such conduct toward the flag in moving column should be rendered at the moment the flag passes.'"

A Sign/Gesture of Respect

The Hand Salute is perhaps the first command a recruit in uniform learns to render and obey. And, it is likely to stay with him/her the remainder of their lives. People in uniform and former military understand the respect the Hand Salute represents. Many of us did not relate 100 percent to placing our hand over the heart. We are more accoustomed to rendering a sign of respect and as is often the case, acknowledging a direct association with a smart, respectful hand salute.

Military/Veteran Related Holidays

Armed Forces Day, Memorial Day, have come and gone for this year. Dead ahead is Flag Day, June 14th. A wonderful time to exercise your right to fly the flag, and encourage others to do so; stand tall and proudly salute for all that you have been through, for all those who have gone through the protals of freedom's defense goals; for all those missing in action/prisoners of war (MIA/POW); and for the hundreds of thousands who have died so we my live; for many reasons, plus those of your very own.

American Military Cemeteries

In the course of my military life - and after - I have visited a number of American Cemeteries in Europe, representing the horrific human cost of the European War campaigns to hold back the brutal advances made by Hitler to change the world; and the huge memorial cemetery located in a dead volcano high above Honolulu, Hawaii, representing the Pacific campaigns to stem the foolish attempts by the Japanese to overcome America. That war also demanded a terrible human toll.

White Crosses, Row Upon Row

In each visit, I humbly rendered, not my hand over my heart, but a Hand Salute with the utmost respect for each and every soul represented by a white cross row upon row.

National Colors are The Red, White and Blue

Yes, of course, there are those who will look at you askance, as you render the hand salute. That is their problem. Not yours. If they ask why, that is your and my opportunity to teach them the proper respect and courtesy due our National Colors of Red, White, and Blue. Colors that have proven again and again that they do not run. God bless America! Thanks for visiting. - Bob

Lost Rules

There are many things we tend to leave behind as we age - age in this case is at any age of reason. We leave them behind for one reason or another, primarily through neglect or not passing them along to the ones we are responsible for teaching - as a parent, teacher, counselor, etc. Here are some that are so simple you may wonder why no one seems to pay attention to them anymore. I believe they are "Lost Rules." See what you think. Feel free to add to them and/or make a copy for selected distribution. They certainly will not harm anyone:

Lost Rules

If you break it, fix it

If you don't know, ask

If you open it, close it

If you lose it, replace it

If you turn it on, turn it off

If you unlock it, lock it back

If you move it, put it back

If you turn it on, turn it off

If you throw it down, pick it up

If you drive it, check the oil and gas

If you ask for something, say please

If it isn't yours, keep your hands off of it

If you get what you ask for, say thank you

If it doesn't concern you, don't mess with it

If someone gives you a smile, give them one back

Remember that courtesy is always acceptable - everywhere

Thanks for visiting. - Bob toujours en vedette

50th Wedding Anniversary Success

An organized group of husbands periodically hold a marriage seminar. On this particular evening they were discussing the number of years some of them have remained married. One of them, Luigi, was nearing his 50th Wedding Anniversary. He was asked by the group's leader to tell the rest of his colleagues how he had managed to stay married to the same woman all of these years. Luigi said: "I've-a tried to treat-a her nice-a, spend-a the money on her, but best of all is that-a I took-a her to Italy for the 20th Anniversary." The group leader said: "Luigi, you're an inspriation to all of the husbands here. Please, tell us what you're planning for your wife for your 50th Anniversary." Luigi proudly said:"I'm-a gonna go back-a to Italy and get her." Thanks for visiting. - Bob (1 Cor 13)

Philosophy

This one has been around a long time. I've not heard it for some years, so it's being resurrected, and so it should be. The humor is from my time in uniform. You might have an opportunity to share it with someone you know that's in uniform now. We can always use a bit of laughter. Try these: The Company Commander and his First Sergeant were in the field. As they hit the sack for the night, the First Sergeant said: "Sir, look up into the sky and tell me what you see?" The Commander said: "I see millions of stars." First Sergeant: "And what does that tell you, sir?" Commander: "Astronomically, it tells me that there are millions of galaxies and potentially billions of planets. Theologically, it tells me that God is great and that we are small and insignificant. Meteorologically, it tells me that we will have a beautiful day tomorrow. What does it tell you, First Sergeant?" First Sergeant: "Well sir, it tells me that somebody stole our tent."

**********

Here's another that you could share with someone in a military uniform:

During training exercises the lieutenant who was driving a jeep down a muddy back road encountered another jeep stuck in the mud,with a red-faced colonel at the wheel. The lieutenant, without too much experience, unwisely remarked to the colonel "Your jeep stuck, sir?" as he pulled alongside the colonel. "Nope," replied the colonel, coming over and handing him the keys, "Yours is."

Thanks for visiting. - Bob toujours en vedette

It's True!

We only think of this once in a while. What brings it on is a word, a thought, a piece of music, a song, something we just happen to be looking at, even a sweet smell. You must have "been there" to know what I'm about to tell you is true. If you've "been there" you'll agree that: Inside every older person is a younger person wondering "What the hell happened!?" "Where, oh, where did the time go?" Now go to a good, complete dictionary and look up: toujour en vedette "Always on the lookout." That's what I've been doing for so long for anything interesting without realizing it. Thanks for visiting. - Bob toujour en vedette

Hypocrisy

It came across the newswire that the once popular but still well-known singer of American lyrics -- Bruce Springsteen, has publicly endorsed Obama for president. His reported announcment did its job on me. I was shocked! Imagine someone who professed to be all-American, especially through his songs, then telling people that he's for the poor excuse for an American? Briefly summing up Obama: A puppet of such unAmerican people as George Sorros and his moveon organization; a liar in denying that he didn't know his pastor had hate in his heart -- after listening to him for 20 years or so. His idea of "Change" spewed with a million words that say absolutely nothing! His youth and his do-no-good record from his home state as well as in the brief time he's been at the Nation's Capitol. What Obama does have is the gift of the gab (still saying nothing meaningful), and an effective manner of speaking. So did Hitler, but Hitler spoke outwardly saying what he intended to do. He, too, hated. But you knew where he was and where he was going. He was a monster, while Obama is like a child in a sandbox throwing sand into the wind. People who cheer after him don't know any more than the first time they heard of him. As Obama has his followers, I'm reminded of the saying: "Like attracts like." That is to say that since Obama knows nothing but rhetoric that excites no-nothing people, that's what we get. Now back to Bruce Springsteen. Springsteen's endorsement of Obama tells me, and it ought to signal to you, too, that he may be able to sing and put words together, but he is obviously a bad judge of character;plus we all know that words are cheap. His ignorance of real life in America has been revealed. A free people who love or should know enough to love liberty, should also realize that our liberty has been and continues to be dearly paid for. These same freedom-loving American people are not interested in liberalism and Islam in this country to replace "The land of the free and the home of the brave." Springsteen's endorsement tells me something else, that he has superficial knowledge about Obama and little idea of Obama's true stand. If Obama were honest he would tell us that he wants to turn this country into an unrecognizable nation. Do you think Springsteen cares? Or, is it the money? Is Springsteen not aware of recent revealations about Obama's relationship with a verbose hate monger? And deny he ever heard hate coming from the mouth of his pastor/family friend? While Springsteen write lyrics about America, perhaps even some with the word "God", I doubt they were sung as "God damn America" as Obama must have heard repeatedly over a period of 20 or so years. You should wonder why Obama is still in this country since he hates it so much. He ought to be in Kenya with his relatives, along with his pastor (who acts like a Muslim). Endorsements for candidates must be taken lightly. As a voter you have your own responsibility to shake the facts loose and determine a firm belief in what you're going to do when you cast your vote. Thoughtless endorsements are potentially dangerous to you and your voting right. Springsteen was a democrat when he supported Walter Mondale. He was a democrat when he, reportedly, asked Ronald Reagan to stop using the song "Born in the USA" at campaign ralies in 1984. Today that tune is more significant than ever, but I doubt Springsteen would know what I mean, since liberalism seems to be in his camp. Besides actions speak louder than words, and to Bruce Springsteen these words must have no meaning, they seem to be just words. Just words like his ignorant and hypocritical endorsement of Barak Obama, which I hope people do more than accept his unqualified opinion. Thanks for visiting. - Bob toujours en vedette

Mother's Wisdom

A Kindly Knudge About Mother's Day

The reasons why you owe your Mother ought to be shared with her on Mother's Day - If you are lucky enough to still have her with you. I just read an article that brought back pleasant memories of my mother, and of my wife to our children during their formative years. Perhaps it will do the same for you. I do believe that Mother's Wisdom helped form each of us. See what you think. The article goes like this:

• My mother taught me Religion:

"You'd better pray that will come out of the carpet."

• My mother taught me about Time Travel:

"If you don't straighten up, I'm going to knock you into the middle of next week."

• My mother taught me Logic:

"Because I said so, that's why."

• My mother taught me More Logic:

"If you fall out of that swing and break your neck, you're not going to the store with me."

• My mother taught me Irony:

"Keep crying, and I'll give you something to cry about."

• My mother taught me about the science of Osmosis:

"Shut your mouth and eat your supper."

• My mother taught me about Contortionism:

"Will you look at that dirt on the back of your neck!"

• My mother taught me about Stamina:

"You'll sit here until all that spinach is gone."

• My mother taught me about Weather:

"This room of yours looks as if a tornado went through it."

• My mother taught me about Hypocrisy:

"If I told you once, I've told you a thousand time. Don't exaggerate!"

And there was one more I can quickly recall: "If you're going to kill each other, do it outside, I just finished cleaning."

Much is and can be written about the exaulted position of a Mother. After all is said and done, the most poignant experience is felt when you realize that you only have her for a little while, then she's gone. You get one chance to hold her and love her as she deserves. May the memories be beautiful; keep her alive in your heart now and later.

Thanks for visiting. - Bob (1 Cor 13)

Sign of the Times - Serious Humor

Sometime we observe something that makes us say something like, "Uhuh, that's the way it is nowadays." In both of the following bits of humor, that's about how I see the actions and reactions of people nowadays. See what you think: Scenario #1. The policeman got out of his car and approached the vehicle that he just stopped for speeding. The young driver rolled down his window. The policeman said: "I've been waiting all day for you." The driver answered: "Yeah, well I got here as fast as I could." Scenario #2. A policeman pulled over a car, walked up to the driver's window and asked the man if he knew why he was pulled over. "No," the man replied. "You failed to stop at the stop sign," the cop explained. "But I did slow down!" the guy argued. The cop shook his head. "You are required to stop. That's why they call it a stop sign." The man started to get beligerent. "Stop, slow down - what's the difference?" The cop pulled out his baton "I can show you. I'm going to start hitting you with my baton. You tell me if you want me to stop or slow down." Yes, these types of people are that stupid. There are many, like myself, that can remember the days when things were simpler, the law was for order, we respected it. Sadly, those days have long but disappeared. That's why we have such a messed up society. It comes from neglect, disobedience, ignorance, lack of respect, etc. The cause and/or responsibility for todays societal decadant situation is not clear; I believe there are many causes and many people from all walks of life responsible. It cannot be easily explained. Unfortunately I believe that today's conditions will get worse before it can ever get better. The guy who didn't know the difference between slow down and stop is indicative of what you see can every day. As for the speedster, not a week goes by in this relative small town, that some teenager doesn't die wrapping his car or truck around a tree from thelocal roads and highway. We can get a jolt of laughter out of these two and similar instances, but In Scenario #1, the cop let the speedster go after laughing so hard. The cop should have given the smart aleck a ticket to impress upon him that he was a danger to his fellow man. Two wrongs never makes a right. Thanks for visiting. -- Bob

What's It Going to Be?

I recently received an invitation to join the Freedom Center of fellow American, David Horowitz. His letter began with a catchy, unbelievable quotation -- unbelievable because I really don't want to believe it. However, I do believe because what I've come to understand about Islam, Muslim, and Mohammadans, all equal the same thing. The quote? Read and believe this: "Islam isn't in America to be equal to any other faith, but to become dominant. The Koran should be the highest authority in America, and Islam the only accepted religion on earth." - Omar Ahmad, Chairman Council of American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) Compare that objective with what was at the founding of our nation. From the mouth of one of America's early founding leaders, Patrick Henry. Besides being known for his famous phrase: "Give me liberty of give me death!" Patrick Henry also boldly declared: "It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too often that this great nation was founded, not by religionists, but by Christians; not on religions, but on the Gospel of Jesus Christ..." Taking into account the radical stories of Muslims everywhere, and their "become muslim or die"mentality toward fellow humans throughout the world, plus their brutal, evil and determined activities, show that they're not sitting on the laurals by a long shot, we, who are mainly passive - and that's most of us - are in for some shocking, life-threatening experiences in the present and not too distant future. We now have (at least) two Muslims in the White House. Who elected them? How did they come to be part of the fabric of our Government? As usual, someone is not paying attention to reality. While we keep quiet, they are making gains as never before. Also as never before, we can look down the road and see, not a White House but a White Mosque. Why not? People don't seem to care about anything except themselves -- for now. Present conditions are forming to be like the brief story of a former non-Communist country. One citizen of that community said that the Communists wanted that place more than the people who lived there, so the Communists took it over. Islam, with their false religion, a religion based on an unbelievable story (that makes our pure loving God out to be less than perfect), is determined to make all who walk the face of the earth a Muslim or be killed. Those who are watching this world's actions know that the word kill is right on target. Ignorance rules Islam. Their God is not the God of Love; their God is the Devil, the Father of Lies. Islam is not something new, its author created this false religion in the 6th century for ignorant fools who wanted to grasp at something or relatives who wanted to start something. It's as brutal as ever, has not changed, except by relatives taking power as decendents and adding this or that or taking away from this or that in the name of religion, for their convenience. There's nothing loving or brotherly about this sinister, destructive religion. Beware! The title of this article is asking you for a rhetorical answer to the substance of the subject matter. Ponder on it won't you. We're talking about America in the hands of Muslims who have already made unknown amounts of headway on the road to their determined goal. You can bet your life that they're not idle in their activities to overtake our country. I only hope and pray for a leader, like Patrick Henry to quickly emerge. God bless America and wake up its citizens. Thanks for visiting. - Bob P.S. David Horowitz has a website you can visit, that I believe you may find interesting. Search: www.frontpagemag.com

How to Have a Happier Life

These are words to live by. Grasp them if you can. Times are "a changing" when too soon people will think this way no more. If you consider yourself an independent sort, not relying on how others behave or live their lives, you will get along much better and reach any healthy, realistic goal you may set for yourself. You can do this. Look them over. Remember, above all, "attitude makes the difference."

• Work like you don't need the money.
• Love like you've never been hurt.
• Dance like nobody's watching.
• Sing like nobody's listening.
• Live like it's Heaven on Earth.
• May there always be work for your hands to do.
• May your pocket or purse always hold a coin or two.
• May the sun always shine on your windowpane; may a rainbow be certain to follow each rain.
• May the hand of a friend always be near. You can be that friend to someone dear.
• May God fill your heart with gladness to cheer you.
• Have the courage to pass this along and brighten someone's day.

Thanks for visiting. - Bob (1 Cor. 13)

Writing and Complaining

Here's a couple of FREE sources that cover virtually every aspect of writing and publishing. Why I believe this is valuable information for you is that I am a believer that "Everyone has a book inside them" as the saying goes. And many people could use the information offered from: http://parapublishing.com/sites/para/resources/newsletter.cfm Many years ago I use to receive a free hard copy of Poyntor newsletter. As a subject that interests me, I kept a few copies all of this time. After I was talked into getting a computer by my sons (I resisted this for almost 30 years), I became curious whether or not Parapublishing still existed. To my surprise it was. And the rest is history. I've been receiving Mr. Poyntor's newsletters regularly. My email has been maintained without being distributed to any other. "Your email address is not distributed to anyone.Period." So, if you're curious about FREE book marketing, full of tips, writing/publishing/promotion news, resources - twice a month - click on the above link and let them know you're interested. You can't go wrong with all the information you received, and may just light up your life leading to a new venture. As for complaining. Yes, there's a right and wrong way. What's nice is this quite large booklet, about the size of an Atlas Road Map book is updated and published each year by way of your tax dollars. It's FREE, and useful, and informative, and step by step examples, and, and, and,... You'll find virtually every company and corporation of every sort, along with contact information if ever you need it. They steer you straight about how to complain effectively. You never know when that will be needed nowadays. (I find it is needed frequently, as I'm not an apathetic,but rather active, engaged person that will let you know if you're not doing what you are suppose to do or something I purchased does not do what it's suppose to do, ought to do; I do get upset, especially if I'm paying for something and it's not doing what It's suppose to do. (You know what I mean.) This truly fantastic and FREE 2008 Consumer Action Handbook is now available. To order: www.consumeraction.gov/caw_orderhandbook.shtml and they'll ship you up to five copies (if that's what you really want). All one household should have or need is one copy. Why am I providing this information to you? Glad you asked. As I have said in a blog or two, on this blog and my other blog, that I have always enjoyed sharing those things I find practical and useful for myself over many, many years. (There's a guy in Washington that has made millions of dollars compiling this type of information. I could have done that myself years ago, but that's not been my M.O.) While I still can, I delight in people discovering now and then my nuggets of freebies useful for themselves. Have at them. Thanks for visiting. - Bob (1 Cor.13)

Better Not Interrupt

Let's take a breather and look on the funny side for a few minutes. Try this one: Little Johnny watched his daddy's car pass by the school playground and go into the woods. Naturally he was curious. So he followed the car and sawDaddy and Aunt Jan in a passionate embrace. Little Johnny found this so exciting that he could hardly wait as he ran home and started to tell his mother. "Mommy, I was at the playground and I saw Daddy's car go into the woods with Aunt Jane. I went back to look and he was giving Aunt Jane a big kiss, and then he helped her take off her shirt..." At this point Mommy cut him off and said: "Johnny, this is such an interesting story, suppose you save the rest of it for supper time. I want to see the look on Daddy's face when you tell it tonight." At the dinner table that evening Mommy asked little Johnny to tell his story. Johnny started his story: "I was at the playground and I say Daddy's car go into the woods with Aunt Jane. I went back to look and he was giving Aunt Jane a big kiss, then he helped her take off her shirt. Then Aunt Jane and Daddy started doing the same thing that Mommy and Uncle Bill used to do when Daddy was in the Army." Mommy fainted! Yep, there's a moral here. Sometimes you need to listen to the whole story before you interrupt. Thanks for visiting. -- Bob

Grass-Roots Philosophy #1

Shared with you from my achives of long, long ago. Some things never change. Hope you enjoy these as much as I did when first discovered. Real life: In Hollywood, it seems easy to shift dears. Pay back: The height of frustration. The wife who finds a letter she gave her husband to mail three months before in the coat that has been home ever since - waiting for a button to be sewed on. Sign in lumber yard: Come see, come saw. It comes down to this: Borrowing neighbors will take anything but a hint. Hearts are diamonds: Card games can be expensive, but so is any game where you hold hands. Touch of genius: They laughed at Watt, too, until he invented the Watt Schmacallit. Timeless: It would be interesting to hear today's teen tell their children what they had to do without. Voting: A process of standing in line to help decide which party will spend your money. Bears repeating: The worst moment for an atheist is when he feels grateful and he has no one to thank. The Long and Short of It: If all the economists were placed end to end, they wouldn't reach a conclusion. Getting the business: It's a tough world for the American businessman. Every time he comes up with something new, the Japanese invent it a week later and the Chinese make it cheaper. Watch 'em count: If you don't think your children can count, try giving them different allowances. Think of it: Rush hour is called that time of day when traffic moves at a snail's pace. With or without drugs: Experimenters say that with the aid of drugs you can enter a world where everything is blurred, unfamiliar, and fantastic. Well, at a certain age you can achieve the same result by misplacing your glasses. Thanks for visiting. -- Bob

Wild Moment

Having walked around the Mall the other day, my son and I sat down in the food court. I noticed a strange looking teenage lad sitting next to us. His hair was spiked and in all different colors: green, red, orange, and blue. My son was watching me looking at this weird sight; the teenager also notice my staring at him. Finally the teen said sarcastically: "What's the matter old man, never done anything wild in your life?" My son was startled at this comment, and calmed down when I replied: "Got drunk once and had sex with a peacock..........I was just wondering if you were my son." Thanks for visiting. -- Bob

Slowing Down is Inevitable

Slowing down is not something we like to admit to ourselves, but facts are facts. This story relates to a creative moment when the facts are hard to accept. It seems that, let's call him George, in a town in Maine, was going upstairs to bed when his wife called to him and asked if he'd left the light on in the back shed -- which she could see from the bedroom window.

George opened the back door to go turn off the light but saw strangers stealing things. He phoned the police, who asked the usual questions: "Is someone in your house?" and he said "no." Then they said that all patrols were busy, and the he should simply lock his door and an officer would be along when available.

George said, "Okay, hung up, counted to 60 and phoned the police again. (Now remember this, you may need to come up with a similar tactic.)

"Hello, I just called you a minute ago because there were people in my shed stealing things. Well, you don't have to worry about them now 'cause I've just shot them all." Then he hung up.

Within five minutes three police cars, an Armed Response unit, and an ambulance shoed up at George's house and caught the burglars red-handed. One of the policemen said to George: "I thought you said that you'd shot them all!" George replied: "And I thought you said there was nobody available!" Thanks for visiting. -- Bob

Strange Happenings In a Snowstorm

Claimed to be a "Truly Scary Story."

A John Bradford, a Dublin University student, was on the side of the road hitchhiking on a very dark, windy night in the middle of a snow storm. The night was rolling on and no car went by. The storm was so strong he could hardly see a few feet ahead of him. Suddenly, he saw a car very slowly coming towards him and stopped. John, desperate for shelter, and without thinking about it, got into the car and closed the door behind him -- only to realize that there was nobody behind the steering wheel -- and the engine wasn't on! The car started moving slowly. John looked at the road ahead and saw a curve approaching. Scared, he started to pray, begging for his life. Then, just before the car hit the curve, a hand appeared through the window at the drivers side and turned the steering wheel. John, paralyzed with terror, watched as the hand repeatedly came through the window, but never touched or harmed him. Just then, John saw the lights of a pub appearing nearby, so, he gathered his strength and jumped out of the car and ran toward the lights. Wet and out of breath, he rushed inside and started telling everybody about the horrible experience he just had. A silence took over the pub when everybody realized that he was crying and ...wasn't drunk.

Suddenly the door of the pub opened, two other people walked in from the stormy night. They, like John, were also soaked and out of breath. Looking around and seeing John Bradford sobbing at the bar, one said to the other "Look Paddy, there's that idiot that got in the car while we were pushing it!"

* * * * * *

Friends: In most parts of this country it is Winter weather with many snow storms. Watch out for hitchhikers and/or people pushing their cars. As for me, I'll wait before venturing out.

Thanks for visiting. Bob Happy New Year!