IRCLE
OF 
RIENDS
MERRY CHRISTMAS
elcome
to our last issue before Christmas, 2007
GLOBAL EXPRESS
Hello again everyone! This is our last issue before Christmas. Let me start you off with this lovely thought - In December and throughout the year, we need to remind ourselves that our presence is much more valuable than any other gift we can give.
To my dear friends ...
My Christmas and New Year's wish for each of you is Happiness and Health. Thoughout 2008 I would love to hear from each of you with a recap of your 2007. Take a few moments over the holidays to remember the highlights of 2007 and to give some thought to what your goals and wishes are for 2008. Then, of course, email me all about it! Yes I am nosey by nature; I am curious about each of you and besides goals are easier to achieve with the help and encouragement of your friends. Throughout this past year think about the many Random Acts of Kindness demonstrated by our membership and the pride this gives to each of us individually. These memories and the feelings they evoked should be written down and shared. When you capture the events and people that matter to you, you can understand and remember those things better. Speaking of Random Acts of Kindness, etc. when you read about something a member has done or achieved or you particularly like what they sent in to be published into the newsletter please take a moment to email them and tell them that. All you need to do is click on their highlighted name and it will take you to an email box -- quickly type your kind words and send it off. That member you have taken the time to email will be so grateful and a valuable new friendship will be started.
Absolutely each and every one of our members has a story to tell ... your experiences, your feelings, ideas, thoughts, and dreams all combine to form your life and your journey, which is your story; a reassured keepsake, a written scrapbook of your life and times.
If you have not started to keep a journal yet please make sure that 2008 is the year to start. Capture your personal thoughts. Journals tell stories - they are your very own personal history books. Keeping a journal is a fantastic tool for self-development. No better way to get in touch with your feelings; to track your development as a person, and to develop a better understanding of who you are. Perhaps the most important reason to keep a journal is that they are a source of inspiration not only for yourself but for others. Don't forget to add some pictures too! One of the very best ways to learn about yourself and to understand other people is communication; so it is a great idea to read other people's journals and to write and share your own. Most importantly have fun with this lifelong project!
Our Global Express Newsletter is really a combined international membership journal. It has been a fun and educational way that we share our life experiences with each other. Look back on some of our old issues whenever you get the chance - it is a nice trip down memory lane. We have learned to laugh and cry together. We share the serious side of our lives but you will discover that we thoroughly enjoy rejoicing in each other's funny or embarrassing things that happen; it is so comforting to know that no matter what our individual status is in life we are all human after all! I thank you for your contributions over the years and sincerely look forward to hearing about life in your corner of the globe in 2008. Reunion Argentina will be the a hot topic throughout the year 2008 ... an exciting event to plan; an even more exciting event to attend which I hope many of you will. Look forward to your suggestions and your help with this project.
Soon we will be talking about New Year's Resolutions and I hope you will consider establishing a family and friends game night at least once a month. Start it off with a potluck dinner followed by a game. Make this event a priority in your life; learn to say no to other activities and be committed and be consistent. Set a designated day and time and stick to it and get ready to enjoy the atmosphere of love and understanding this event will establish in your life. Don't forget to share the fun and pictures with us. I mention this every year, I know, but only because it is so important.
I am so honoured to call you my friends and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the support you have given me these past years. From my family to yours; a very Merry Christmas. All my love, Sharon from Paradise Island.
Here is a little fun for us. How long do you think it takes you to read the newsletter each week? How about setting an alarm and see how close you come. I can not test this because my sound card is not working -- let me know how it works please.
I thought the following article by Dr Maurice M Heath Alliance Life, December 2002 that was sent in by Daphne to be a most appropriate way to start off this issue!
NEW THOUGHTS ABOUT AN OLD STORY
The soft fresh hay makes a perfect pillow for His head. A composed Mary kneels to worship her Son. Soft light filters in from the star in the east, and unsoiled animals politely stand back from the sleeping baby. One can almost hear the animals singing "Silent Night".
When we read scriptural accounts of events, we often miss their full impact because we fail to realize that these were real people living real lives. Our Christmas card image of the circumstances surrounding the Messiah's birth make sit easy to forget the dirty details of life to which Jesus was subject; just as we are.
The fact is, the circumstances surrounding the Messiah's life were far less sanitary and picturesque than what we tend to imagine. When you contemplate these circumstances, it becomes clear that
Really, the whole idea of Christmas goes against common sense. Throughout history, mankind has known that the only way to rule the world is through military might. The way to conquer is to have the largest army, the most chariots, guns and weapons, and the most massive military machine. But Jesus came in helplessness and poverty; the King of Kings, a vulnerable baby. Insect bites, dehydration, infection, the list goes on. Love was His means of conquering, and it seems ludicrous. But then,
Think of Mary, a teenager who was innocent, devout, chaste and pregnant! Yes, she had an angelic visitation, but it is beyond comprehension that she could really take in what was happening to her and in her. Even if she could understand, surely she worried about what her undoubtedly good, reverent Jewish family would say. She must have thought, "Oh, how can I tell my mother? And my father? I know he loves me, but what will he do when he finds out? His daughter unmarried and pregnant!."
And what did Mary's friends say? "Look at Mary. Always so innocent, so pious. Look at her belly. Couldn't wait till you got married , could you Mary? You say you are innocent? That you're pregnant by God?? Come on Mary, we weren't born yesterday. Tell us another one so we can laugh some more."
Then Mary had to think of Joseph. "My beloved Joseph. He will be disgraced, laughed at. Can he possibly understand?" Few of Mary's family or neighbours understood.
The Jews knew from Old Testament prophecy that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem. But herein lies a problem. Mary and Joseph who were to be the Messiah earthly parents, lived in Nazareth. Nazareth is located 70 miles north of Bethlehem, and people seldom travelled such distances in those days. Beyond that, the 70 miles were through bandit - infested desert wilderness, and these bandits often robbed and killed travelers. (The setting for the parable of the Good Samaritan was this region.)
Given these facts, it was improbable at best for Mary, at full term pregnancy, to travel to Bethlehem at just the right time. However a Roman emperor, whose domain included most of the known world, happened to make a decree that got Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem precisely in accord with the divine schedule. Caesar Augustus had never heard of Mary or Joseph, and probably not of Nazareth or Bethlehem either. All he knew of Judaism was that it presented occasional minor annoyances that had to be stamped out by provincial governors. Yet Caesar decree for a sensus was God's tool for fulfilling prophecy. Unlikely? Improbable?
About half of you know better than the other half that having a baby hurts; a lot! Ever wonder how much Mary's labour pains hurt? Did she cry softly as the contractions came harder , closer? Imagine riding a donkey 70 miles over dusty dirt roads while in labour. And then lying down in a dirty smelly stable for an unassisted delivery. Of course, Joseph was kind, loving and gentle, but would he have known how to handle it if newborn Jesus' umbilical cord had been wrappped around His neck or if Jesus had been breech? And what did he use to cut and tie the umbilical cord? I doubt it was stirile. Could Joseph aspirate the mucous so the baby wouldn't develop pneumonia? What would he do if Mary hemorrhaged? He certainly didnt have any medicine.
We may think Herod's infant-slaughter was the first major challenge of the well being of baby Jesus, but this is not the case. Surviving labour, delivery and the first two postpartum days was nothing less than a miracle. In those days, infant mortality was probable around 50% under the best circumstances. If a baby who was born in a stable were brought to a hospital today, it wouldn't be allowed in the nursery; it would contaminate the other babies.
Bethlehem and its surrounding hills was a short distance from Jerusalem, where unblemished lambs had been sacrificed for hundreds of years in accordance with Mosaic Law. The temple authorities kept their own flocks in order to have a constant supply of perfect lambs, and it is quite likely that these flocks were pastuered near Bethlehem. Although shepherds could not keep themselves clean according to the Pharisaic Law and, therefore, were religious outcasts, the priests put up with them to keep unblemished lambs available. What a beautiful thought that it was probable the shepherds tending sacrificial lambs who first heard the good news from the heavenly host. And then, these shepherds were the Lamb of God's first visitors.
We do our best to shield our sons from unnecessary risks even when they are men. The Heavenly Father has a Son whom He loves very much; He loves Him with a love far beyond our capacity for love. Though the Father didn't take pleasue in exposing His Son to risk, He loved us too much not to expose His Son to the necessary risk of the cross, so Jesus could become our Saviour. Because of Christmas we can all know Jesus.
An exciting new feature this week is the WWWCOF Hangman Game. Do be sure to try it and let me know how you do.
If you have enjoyed this week's issue please tell a friend about it. Just enter your friend's name and email address. It will send them a link to this newsletter's web page address in an email message signed by you. Perfect!
Don't forget to check the Birthday Calendar to see which members are celebrating special days next week. Happy Birthday or Anniversary to everyone celebrating and we look forward to hearing all about your special day. If you are not listed in the calendar please be sure to email Jami and/or Bigsis Pat so they can add you.
Christmas Stories
I went and sat on Santa's lap at one of the malls. It was funny how it happened. I was in deep thought and was walking by his area. He said something to me, I looked up and he pointed at me and waved to come over. I pointed at myself and said "me"????? He nodded his head. He said I looked sad and he wanted to cheer me up. I told him about my checkup next week and how scared I get. He squeezed my hand, said all would be well, gave me a hug and a candy cane. Made my day .... And he was a fat, jolly Santa. The kind of Santa we all need. Darn it .. I'm crying again thinking about it. Hugs, Deanna from Roanoke, VA, USA.
Featured Story of the Week
I am so glad to be alive I treated myself to some new clothes today, my friend Terry was very proud of me today because I bought some pretty tops and trousers and now I have a nice outfit to wear next week to Terry daughters house when we go for dinner. After sitting back and reflecting on the past weeks' events in my life I have realised that I am in deed lucky to be alive and going to live for a change.
Hiya all, good morning, evening, afternoon where ever you are in the world. (My catch phrase I think hehe) I have been up since 2am again, but I have had enough sleep, I have been potting around the house, moving plants around in my front room, cleaning up the back room downstairs, just looking for stuff to do really but enjoying it at the same time. When I was at work I never had the time to change things around at home, so now I am using this time I have to get my house in order as they say.
I had a call from my personal officer yesterday while I was sitting in my doctors waiting to see the nurse, I feel all embarrassed because he said he is coming round to see me on Wednesday, hehe I am honoured, I said to him why? He said he is bringing me a Christmas present, hehehe, so I guess my company are not all that bad after all, and well they seem to be improving on the human front a good thing I guess. I bet he brings round some flowers something like that, I am chuffed really. So I guess me potting around the home is me trying to get my house looking ok for my visitor.
These last few weeks have bought a change in me. It was a frightening experience that I never want to go thru again, but now I do value my life much more, and really need to look after me more, going out the other day buying clothes was the start, I really haven't bought anything new for myself in a long, long time. I guess working most of my life and then shutting me away all weekend was enough for me, and sticking my head in the sand. So, from now on I am going to change. I even let bygones be bygones with my oldest brother, Jimmy, the other day, swallowed my pride and phoned him, I said to him life is too short to bared grudges and I have been baring one since dad passed away in 2003, so now I am letting go of all that bad feeling within myself.
I also had a good talk on the phone with my sister in law to my middle brother the other day, just talking about my family and our funny ways, I guess we have all got our selfish ways, me included in that, any way she has invited me to come round for dinner on Boxing day, my brother will pick me and take me there. On Xmas eve I will be going with Terry (Theresa) down to south London to her oldest daughter Naomi, to spend the day with them. Then On Xmas day I will be going up to Terry's for dinner, so I will not be on my own like I planned. (Smile)
Oh nearly forgot to tell you all, that I am going to make a life changing decision and in the next two years, Terry and Jonathon have be thinking of moving to South London to be near her oldest daughter, and she does not want to leave me behind, so I am thinking and this is big for me, that I am going to look for a exchange so I can go South London too, I will swap this 3 bedroom for a 2 bedroom, that will be a good deal for someone. Anyway that is a big thing for me as I have been in this house all my life since 1961 when I was just over one year old. I guess I have to get my mums old bedroom in order I have used it as a dumping ground since mum passed in 1995, so I have to at some time get a skip and start trailing thru that room, it's a mess, and it has wall to wall junk heheh. That is going to be a big project for me. Well I have to impress someone to want to move in here and that is the only room I have no touched.
Hehe I better shut up now other wise I go on and on, hope you all have a restful sleep on the other side of the pond, and a good day to others in other parts of the world. Chrissie from London, England.
I would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a really good New Year. For those of you who don't recognize either of these may your celebrations be equally satisfying. I'd be delighted to hear about them. Take care,
Scotty , aka Irene in Scotland
In my family we beat the stress and commercialization that this time of year always brings, by deciding that each adult attending has one other to get a gift for, A gives to B, B gives to C etc names drawn out of a bag randomly,(done a couple of weeks ago) and any one that can caters for the three children - if there were more children then they would also be 'shared out', to make sure all the kids get the same amount of gifts, and no favouritism. This is a system that has worked very well for us, and goes down well with us all since the financial crisis we had five or six years ago. Christmas Dinner, is always celebrated on the 24th in the evening and carried over to see Christmas in on the 25th. Gifts mysteriously appear at the foot of the tree after the 'toast' and when everyone goes out to see the fireworks. The dinner its self is usually a pot luck, but with the menu decided before hand. This year it is our turn to do the starter and we decided on humitas (corn envelopes) not really a Christmassy thing, but we decided on something different and that's what we came up with that agrees with most everyone. My Sis-in-law's side is doing the main dish, and another is bringing the ice cream, which will go with the traditional fresh fruit salad, and everyone brings a bottle or two of what they are most likely to drink. We'll be 9 adults and 3 kids, though really Agos usually comes later and we always have it here as we have more room to accomodate that number. Wishing you a VERY HAPPY CHRISTMAS. Would love to hear from you all. Love from Daphne in beautiful South America
Christmas gift suggestions:
- To your enemy, forgiveness.
- To an opponent, tolerance.
- To a friend, your heart.
- To a customer, service.
- To all, charity.
- To every child, a good example.
- To yourself, respect.
A
Just wanted to wish each and everyone out there, a Merry Christmas, and happy new year Bea from Catskills
A little about me - Hi well im married and have four kids and four grand kids and 8 grand
kids by marriage and love them all. We are from Kidron, Ohio. I love to draw and read and I also make wreaths out of grape vines. Two of the kids, a boy and a girl are away; one is in Tucson AZ and the son is down south. He
will be coming home soon Gods willing. We dont go away a lot. We are home bodies; me more than hubby. I also like to read oh i was going to say the other boy and girl lives close so we see them quite a bit. I don't know what else to tell ya but i love to chat I
have the Yahoo Messenger if anyone wants to add me that would be great. Take care
and Happy Holidays to all of the WWWCOF; write me anytime :-)
Shar from Ohio
I do not feel one bit stressed this holiday! Honest to God! I made sure of it this year! and am darn proud of
myself too for succeeding. I was depressed yesterday just thinking dang, its here and almost
gone already. I love Christmas so much, I wish we could linger for
more months. I think I am going to start a new tradition here with the
COF! and celebrate it all over again in July !!!!! So watch out
everybody, you'll be getting another Christmas surprise then
too ....... lol love ya, "J" , aka Jami from Maryland who also would like to share the following story with us:
Rose told me she (didn't catch the cats name sorry) she has been laying in her arms like this from the time she was a tiny baby of 6 weeks old. She also does not like her owner to turn away from her face. If sitting on sofa and Rose turns the other way the cat will move from one shoulder to the other facing her ... lol. I am doing an injustice to calling her a "cat" because she is more a baby than anyone knows.
Garnet and I would like to wish all the members of the COF a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Peachy Marie our Canadian wintering in Florida, USA.
I would like to close this section with a very special message:
This is what I am feeling right now. For over 5 years we went to Florida to see my Dad at Christmas.
He died (2 years .... this August) and I feel I should be there right now like I always was. It was like this last
Christmas ........ I couldn't feel at home. I thought I should be in Florida with him. Christine Greenwood, Delaware USA.
I know the pain, I feel it still.
The pain lessens day by day,
There is but one thing that I
So for now I still cry, but it's really
He is better off where he's at now.
I love you Daddy.
I hope each of our new members join in on our little friendly challenge and play our Trivia Quiz Game hosted by Aussie Jeanette.
Would you believe we got a foot of snow last night and now the sun is shining is just gorgeous outside at the moment look like we will have a white Christmas. Ruth from Michigan
We had 8 and a half inches of snow, and more sleet and snow is coming down, but to top it off the temperature is 15 and the wind chill, well lets say BURRRRRRRRR; lol, so I will be house bound for awhile.
Tha salt and sand truck are constanly trying to clear the roads, Bea from Catskills
We are getting a snow storm right now. We have about 2 inches on the ground right now with 4 to 6 more expected. We havent had this much snow in a long time but I want a white Christmas so its ok for now lol after the holidays it can just go away . Shar from Ohio
I had to share this with you all. Unbelievable isn't it? A rose bud during our first snowfall !!!
By the way,it DID bloom too! and we also have another one on the bush right now.
hugs, Jami , from Maryland
Linda's Christmas Tequila Cookies
Try another 4 ounces, just in case. Turn off the mixerer thingy. Break two
leggs and add to the bowl and chuck in the cup of dried fuit, picking the
frigging fruit off the floor. Mix on the turner. If the fried druit gets
stuck in the beaterers, just pry it loose with a screwdriver.
Sample the Cuervo to check for tonsisticity. Next, sift 2 cups of salt or
something. Check the Jose Cuervo. Now shift the lemon juice and strain your
nuts. Add one table. Add a spoon of sugar, or somefink. Whatever you can
find. Greash the oven. Turn the cake tin 360 degrees and try not to fall
over. Don't forget to beat off the turner.
Finally, throw the bowl through the window, finish the Cose Juervo and make
sure to put the stove in the dishwasher.
Cherry Mistmas from Linda from Tallassee, AL
Cranberry Oatmeal Cookies
INGREDIENTS:
Jami's Cream Cheese Cookies
Jami's Hungarian Nut Horns
Dough
Christmas Bread Ring
Reindeer on a Stick M&M recipe
Our WWWCOF Cookbook is continually being updated and we still have room for many more recipes so we would love to add your favourites.
If you cannot find your recipe either in the main cookbook, or the Seasonal Regional section, try looking in its own site search engine to make finding specific recipes easy, (eg. By origin, ingredient, recipe type etc.) Failing that, email Daphne and let her know and she'll do my best to put the matter right.
Click on any of the following to be taken to that section of the newsletter. Please notify me of any broken links.
Tinsel
Glittering tinsel is used to decorate the Christmas tree to symbolise light. Light in all forms was thought to be magic enough to ensure that the forces of darkness would not have any power.
A Christian legend given for the origins of tinsel is that a poor widow was determined to have a memorable Christmas for her family that all she possessed was a tree. She spent many hours decorating it and finally fell asleep. Later in the night spiders wove webs all over the tree's branches. As a reward for the widow's unselfishness, the Christ-child changed the spider webs into shining silver threads.
Another legend was that as a child Jesus Christ once decorated a tree. He was assisted by angels whose hair was caught on the branches as they departed, it turned into tinsel.
submitted by Chelsea's mom Angie from Michigan, USA
Do you know the legend of the Cherokee Indian youth's rite of passage?
His father takes him into the forest, blindfolds him and leaves him
alone.
He is required to sit on a stump the whole night and not remove the
blindfold until the rays of the morning sun shine through it. He
cannot cry out for help to anyone. Once he survives the night, he is a
MAN.
He cannot tell the other boys of this experience, because each lad must
come into manhood on his own.
The boy is naturally terrified. He can hear all kinds of noises. Wild
beasts must surely be all around him. Maybe even some human might do him
harm. The wind blows the grass and earth, and shakes his stump, but he
sits stoically, never removing the blindfold. It is the only way he can
become a man!
Finally, after a horrific night the sunrays warm him and he removes his
blindfold. It is then that he discovers his father sitting on the stump
next to him. He has been at watch the entire night, protecting his son
from harm.
We, too, are never alone. Even when we don't know it, our Heavenly
Father is watching over us, sitting on the stump beside us. When trouble
comes, all we have to do is reach out to Him.
Last weekend (Dec 8th) Darryl & I drove to Niagara Falls to see the annual display of the Winter Festival of Lights.
It truly is a winter wonderland full of magic and awe with the wonderful illuminations covering
five kilometres. It includes three million sparkling tree and ground lights and over 120 lighting displays including the world-famous Enchantment of Disney animated displays.
I did manage to capture a few pictures before my batteries died.
Here's some photos taken at my daughter jennifer's hous on Tuesday Dec 18th, of our annual Family Christmas. It was especially great this year for me, having just returned from BC and seeing all the kids for the first time in close to 4 months.
What we are never changes.
Hello everyone,
EXPLORING ARGENTINA with views to Reunion 2008
This week
CORRIENTES
Corrientes Province towards the NE of Argentina is famous for its Carnivals in February. The magic of the carnivals begins to be felt when working hands begin to embroider the suits and outfits, working up to the summer nights when the streets are filled with people anxious to share the floats and festivities.
To hold a Reunion we need people, The organization is already well underway as shown in our Reunion site, now we need the cooporation and participation of members everywhere. Look forward to seeing many of you here
Love from Daphne
WWWCOF Members
I am back on line but not too often as i just got home from the hospital after 4 months and major back surgery and many infections and rehab. I have missed all of you ... Take care and be well. Arlene from Phoenix, Arizona, USA
Hello every one just a note to let you know haven't been on much as I been dealing with a darn cold I thought, but on Friday (yesterday) December 14 my neighbor Nancy was up visiting and I almost passeded out, so she took me in to the ER and I was looked at. They were concerned that I might have had a mild heart attack as my heart rate was so low. It kept dropping below 44 and so I was kept in the Hospital over night for a 24 hour observation as it turn out my heart rate is slower I guess since my gastric by-pass in 2004 and it is something they are going to keep an eye on but what was causing me to feel like I was going to pass out was an inner ear infection and so I was able to come home this afternoon Saturday December 15 after seeing my doctor and some medicine. Yippee was happy to know it wasn't my heart really give me and George a good scare.
Ruth from Maryland, USA
No need to worry about my sudden weight loss. My oncologist said that my system/metabolism is getting back to normal. All of my blood work that they could test today came back perfect. My blood pressure was 127/67 and pulse was 62. He said the area on my legs that I thought might be ulcers trying to form, are not ulcers. They are areas of dead tissue that are breaking up, as the scan showed. He wants me to get light support knee socks and walk more. He told me that out of 100%, he would put my health at 98%... News Michael and I wanted to hear so much. He doesn't believe anything will show in my tumor markers because my white cell and red cells are perfect. He said he would go out on a limb and say, he believes I will continue to be cancer free for many years if not forever. He did switch me from Tamoxifen to Femara for the next 6 months and then I don't have to take any meds for the cancer. He said to keep doing what I am doing and to never quit my quilting. He said he feels it is a life force for me.
Thank you for the prayers and good wishes. Now, I'm going to kick back, watch a movie and eat some popcorn. Hugs,
Deanna from Roanoke, VA
News from Chrissie, from London, England - I had the staples out today, but there is still an infection going on, the nurse cleaned it all up but wants me back to see the other nurse on Wednesday, just to see how it's going on. She was worried it might seep, well I not going to take the dressing off to look I will just wait to Wednesday. Took my granny trolley out with me today hehe, to get some food shopping, it's the only way I can do my shopping; seeing I not suppose to lift anything heaver then a kettle. My poor bike is getting dusty in the hall I haven't been on it since the 26th of November. I would not be able to get it outside with out staining and I don't want to take the chance. I also saw the doctor today and he has given me a sick not, that takes me up to the 7th of January, my holidays have gone now so I have to have a couple of weeks on statuary sick pay that's only �72 a week but that's better then nothing. I have to start freezing food again to get me thru January. At the end of the day I am just glad to be alive and not suffering any more. BOY what a few weeks I have had!!!!
Sue from Ontario, Canada is going through some hard situations at this time. Please lift Sue up in Prayer for God to provide for her and her son and for Him to Touch her with His healing Hands in whatever way needed.
Talyta from Brazil had her gallbladder surgery and they removed several gallstones. She is doing well. Thank you for your prayers. "THANK YOU JESUS"
An update from Cindy from Phillipston, MA on her husband, Vern. Just got some good news. A team at the rehab center evaluated Vern today. I guess they do this every Fri. . After the doctor came in to talk to him about the findings. He says that if everything goes according to plans, Vern should be able to come home by next Fri.!! I never expected to hear this. What a Christmas gift!!! I was thinking I'd be spending Christmas in his room. Not exactly my idea of a fun Christmas, but if I had to I would have. So I'm praying everything goes well.
They're working him really hard. When he calls me after his therapy he is beat! They have him in there for 1 -2 hours 2 -3 times a day! The doctor told me the therapy was aggressive down there!
He will be using a walker I think for a while. I told him I'll let him use mine. I don't have to use it much at home now. Mostly at night when I go to the bathroom. It would be kind of crowded around here with two of us banging around with them.
What a couple of old wrecks we are! Well, just wanted to keep you all updated.
Charlie & Florida Marie will be traveling to North Carolina with Daughter Karen to celebrate Christmas with their Grand and Great Grandchildren from the military. Please pray for Traveling grace for them and may all be blessed with the wonderful Love of God.
Lindalou from Tallassee, AL, USA had a good report on her veins; said they had closed like they were suppose to. She has to wear 30/40 pressure support hose for 6 weeks but thinks it will be worth it to get rid of the varicose veins, and hopefully they will not hurt so bad. "PRAISE GOD!" She had her other vein done on the 19th and admits it did hurt a little!
Anonymous wwwcof: I am in constant pain doctors are trying everything they are not sure what is causing it. I am going for x rays and ultra sound and lots of blood tests. Its really hard sometimes feel like taking that extra pill but God doesn't want me yet and I couldn't do it. Some days the pain is excruciating don't feel like doing anything. Not ready for Christmas. Toooooooooo much pain! Please pray for me no names just please pray. Prayer Warriors, as you see this person is in great need of prayer. Please pray for them to be free from this pain and for God to surround them with His Almighty healing Angels. May He fill them with His Holy Spirit and may they truet totally in Him for comfort and healing. IN Jesus Name.
Haley Miller has a request. Please keep Haleys Parents in prayer for healing and for her family to be a Christian one.
Jonna
from Florida, USA Jonna is doing much better. It must be something going around there because her Pastor and a friend came down with it also. It reacts like a Heart attack but is actually some kind of virus. Please continue to pray for her to stay in God's path.
Sue is going through some hard situations at this time. Please lift Sue up in Prayer for God to provide for her and her son and for Him to Touch her with His healing Hands in whatever way needed.
Lena's husband, Sherley came down with a case of shingles 10 months ago and she does not know if she is coming or goiong, all the pills, so many seems all we do is go to the doctor or the hospital, plus the von comes every 2 days to change the dressing on his leg. Darn predisone, makes the skin so thin, every little wound turns into a major wound.
Daphne from Argentina asks for prayers for Global Healing as well as for the 2008 WWWCOF Reunion.
Family and Friends of WWWCOF Members
Maxine from Ontario, Canada has an update on her daughter Mary Jo who has now had 2 rounds of chemo. Hard to tell if anything but its supposed to slow it down or stop it so she could have up up 15 yrs if she doesn't get sick instead of 2 to 5 yrs . She has Pulmonary Fibrosis. Thanks for the prayers so far, there's always hope. Mary Jo is only 51, My eldest daughter. Thank you for all you prayers and God Bless. This is a very hard time for Mary Jo as chemo takes a lot from you. Please keep her in prayer for God to heal her.
I am still on the island, just wanted to hurry and give you an update. Chelsea came home last night and will be ok - she doesn't have to have dialysis, or a transplant at this point. Miracles do happen, and we got one. In the past week Cheslea's kidneys have gone from complete failure to functioning at 4%, then 8%, then two days ago they went up to 15%, and her Dr was downright giddy. At 10% they put you on dialysis so the fact she was over 10% was really significant. Now - all the information on the condition she has IGA Nephropathy - states that the damage to the kidneys is irreversible and that there is no cure. The information also states that once the patient reaches complete kidney failure that there are two options- dialysis, and transplant. This is significant because as of yesterday morning Chels' kidneys are functioning at more than 50%. We know we have been given a miracle. She can live the rest of her life at this level. She may never need a transplant. We are so grateful to all of you for your prayers, and we are grateful for priesthood blessings. We are very humbled by the outpouring of love and concern for Chels and she is deeply touched by all the people who have sent her well wishes. I can't thank you enough. Chelsea will be monitored monthly for creatinine levels and kidney function, but other than being careful of her diet to avoid further complications,she should return to life as she knew it before IGA nephropathy. : )
My love to you all,
Angie
Mary Monroe: (Friend and family of Charla:)
I have received a special prayer request from a dear friend and family member. My sons wife's Grandmother Mary Monroe, will be admitted into a nursing home in the morning. She has been living with my daughter in law's Mother Lynn and her husband. Her other children Gregg, Robin, Ann and Sandy have all played a role in her care. She has gotten to the point where they are unable to take care of her any longer. She needs professional care. Please lift Lynn, Gregg, Robin, Ann and Sandy up in prayer as this is NOT and easy decision to make and it affects the family very hard. Please pray God will help all of them with His comforting hand as they do this and let them know it is for the best. We pray that their Mother will be taken care of properly and that God surround her with a continued protection of Angels.
In Jesus Name
Peachy's Marie's friend, Margaret, had a stroke and passed away recently. She has a family who needs our prayers for comfort and strength through this and so does Aunt Marie.
Cecil: This is My daughter Jonna's Pastor. He has been admitted to the hospital with his heart. Please pray for Cecil and his family that God will heal him.
Pauletta Brown: (Co Worker of Haley's Nanna Sue) Pauletta's father is 87, an ex-minister is very ill in the hospital, he is loosing a lot of blood and not knowing why or where its coming from. I just talked with mother. Daddy is very tired but I think that is to be expected after loosing so much blood. That will take awhile to build back up. We don't know yet when they will start radiation on the Melanoma. I assume that they will wait until he gets stronger. He was so pleased when I told him about the (wwwcof) international prayer chain. Please keep Pauletta's Dad in prayer for comfort and for God's will to be done.
Susan Murphy: (Haley's Nanna) Susan has Parkinson's and has had for a few years She is still working although at times it gets a bit hard Please keep Susan in prayer for a cure to be found.
UNSPOKEN Requests: Scott Skeel, Joyce, Jeff, Steve, Libby, Bobby, Alan & Katie
Jim Romans: (Charla's Cousin) Jim will be having some serious back surgery December 13, 2007. Please pray that The surgeons are guided by God's Holy Hands and surrounded with His Healing powers.
Ivana: (Daphne Niece) One of the many nieces of Leo's from a mountain village has had to travel with her parents (Leo's brother) to Buenos Aires - couple of thousand miles from where they live - for an operation for a bone tumor. The girl, Ivana, is only 16. They have to spend about a month away from home, I don't have anymore details at present. I do not know, but I suspect it is possible they will be here for a while for convalescence before returning to the mountains. We already have another niece - of another brother - living with us. Please keep this family in your prayers.
Jim Romans: (Charla's cousin's husband) Thank You all for your Prayers for My husband Jim Please continue to pray for him he is in a lot of pain now. Jim had back/neck surgery this past week. May God touch him with His hand of comfort and healing.
Please email Charla with any Praises, Requests and/or UPDATES Thank you.
Santa's Prayer on Christmas Eve
The sleigh was all packed, the reindeer were fed,
"Dear Father," he prayed "Be with me tonight.
I must jump in my sleigh and streak through the sky,
I will visit each household before the first light,
With sleighbells a-ringing, I'll land on each roof,
To get in the house is the difficult part,
My sack will hold toys to grant all their wishes.
I will fill all the stockings and not leave a track.
I can do all these things Lord, only through You,
All this is to honor the birth of the One,
So to all of my friends, least Your glory I rob,
Moose let us know early on that he wanted to play fetch when he would go find sticks in the yard and bring them to me. I upgraded that to a ball, then finally a frisbee. You wouldn't believe a dog like Moose could catch a frisbee but he is a pro! I think his record is 25 catches in a row.
Moose knows how to: sit, lay down, sit up, speak, roll over, go around in a circle, give high fives, balance a treat on his nose, and shake. I also was teaching him how to play soccer in the backyard and he was doing great. He scored a few goals by pushing the ball with his nose!
We got Moose in 1999, so he is 8 years old now, or 56 in dog years. He is my buddy, and I love to take him for walks, and play inside and out with him. God willing he will be a miracle dog and live as long as I do, because I will miss him terribly when he goes to doggy heaven.
Sharon this was in our local new paper today thought it would be a nice poem for the newsletter.
CHRISTMAS PUPPY
Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house.
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care.
In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there.
The children were nestled all snug in their beds, with no thought of the dog filling their heads.
And Momma in her kerchiefs and I in my cap, I knew he was cold but didn't care about that.
When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter, I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash.
Figuring the dog was free of his chain and into the trash.
The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow, gave the luster of mind-day to objects below.
When, what to my wondering eyes should appear, but Santa Claus --- with eyes full of tears.
He unchained the dog, once so lively and quick.
Last year's Christmas present now painfully thin and sick.
More rapid than eagles he called the dog's name, and the dog ran to him, despite all his pain.
Now Dasher! Now Dancer! Now Prancer and Vixen! On Comet! On Cupid! On Donner and Blitzen!
To the top of the porch! To the top of the wall!
Let's find this dog a home where he'll be loved by all!
I knew in an instant there would be no gifts this year, for Santa Claus had made on thing very clear:
The gift of a dog is not just for season.
We had gotten the pup for all the wrong reasons.
In our haste to think of the kids a gift.
There was on important that we missed.
A dog should be family and cared for the same, you don't give a gift then put it on a chain.
And I heard him exclaim as he rode out of sight,
"YOU WEREN'T GIVING A GIFT, YOU WERE GIVING LIFE!"
This is Sponsored by the Barry County Humane Society and submitted to the THE REMINDER by Jobeth Bridleman
As a foster Mom we see to many unwanted animals so I thought our readers would appreciate this article. This is something to keep in mine when thinking of a Christmas gift.
Dear Readers:
Please consider these very important concerns. First, you must be sure they really want and can have a dog, and understand the commitment having one requires. Can they afford to keep such a pet? Do they have adequate space/housing for a dog? Do they have the time needed to properly care for, exercise and train a dog? If so, then a puppy might be the right gift, but not necessarily at this time. If you must give something now, wrap up a dog book, grooming equipment or a can of dog food to place under the tree, and explain that the puppy will arrive AFTER the holidays, when the household returns to normal. This will make the adjustments that bringing a new member into the family causes (as well as house training) much easier to accomplish. If all these important aspects are seriously considered, there will be no dogs in need of being reclaimed by Santa next Christmas, as described in this rendition of a much-loved poem sent to us by Heart Ondersma of Kalamazoo.
submitted by
Get down to brass tacks
Meaning - Engage with the basic facts or realities.
Origin
"When you come down to 'brass tacks' - if we may be allowed the expression - everybody is governed by selfishness."
All of the other known early citations either originate in, or refer to, Texas. It is reasonable to assume that the phrase was coined there, in or about the 1860s.
The derivation of 'getting down to brass tacks' is uncertain. Nevertheless, it is a phrase that is often asked about, so I will list the most likely possible sources and the evidence for and against them and leave you to make up your mind for yourself.
Brass tacks are, of course, real as well as figurative items and two of the most commonly repeated supposed derivations refer to actual tacks. Firstly, there's the use of brass-headed nails as fabric fixings in the furniture trade, chosen on account of their decorative appearance and imperviousness to rust. Such brass tacks were commonly used in Tudor furniture and long predate the use of the phrase, which would tend to argue against that usage as the origin - why wait hundreds of years and then coin the phrase from that source? The supporters of that idea say that, in order to re-upholster a chair, the upholsterer would need first to remove all the tacks and fabric coverings, thus getting down to the basic frame of the chair. While that is true, it hardly seems to match the meaning of the expression, as the tacks would be the first thing to be removed rather than the last.
The second explanation that relies on actual tacks comes from the haberdashery trade. Here the notion is that, in order to be more accurate than the rough-and-ready measuring of a yard of material by holding it out along an arm's length, cloth was measured between brass tacks which were set into a shop's counter. Such simple measuring devices were in use in the late 19th century, as is shown by this piece from Ernest Ingersoll's story The Metropolis of the Rocky Mountains, 1880:
"I hurried over to Seabright's. There was a little square counter, heaped with calicoes and other gear, except a small space clear for measuring, with the yards tacked off with brass tacks."
Various other explanations relate to the tacks in boots, those that were put on chairs as a prank, the rivets on boats etc, etc. None of these come equipped with any real evidence and are best left alone.
Of the supposed explanations that don't have literal allusions, we can rule out links with any form of 'brass tax'. There have been taxes on brass at various times, but no one can find any connection with this phrase. 'Getting down to brass tax' appears to be just a misspelling. The expression is also often said to be an example of Cockney rhyming slang, meaning 'facts'. In the strange world of Cockney argot, 'tacks' does indeed rhyme with 'facts' (facks), but that's as far as it goes. Rhyming slang coinages from the 19th century are limited to the UK and Australia. The apparent US origin of the phrase discounts the rhyming slang origin.
For my money, the 'fabric measuring' derivation is the strongest candidate but, given no smoking gun, we await further evidence.
submitted by Chrissie.
Please visit my website
Be sure to visit our Sayings site! Email Chrissie with any Origins and Meanings of Sayings and she will happily see that they are added to this collection. What common sayings would you like to know the meaning and origin of? Just ask Email Chrissie and she will find out for you.
Hello Everyone, I just got the news from my youngest bachelor 32 year old son Scott, he will be getting married. No date set yet but plans are being made. I knew this was the one! Thank you Jesus! Love Charla from Florida, USA.
Is anyone doing a "Let's Do Lunch" with some of the other members? If anyone is planning something please let me
know so I can pass it along to the members and then we all can "celebrate" cyberside.
First there was the time and location issue. As you know I have relocated back to Ontario, and was without internet for two weeks. Then when I finally did get it installed, my computer got very sick, and had to have major surgery. Yes, the dreaded hard drive reformat!! Which means I lost all the photos for the contest.
The basic concept is for you to send in two photos - one as an adult, and one as a baby or young child. These will be posted on a special website I created, and then everyone will try to match up the entries.
Deadline for entries will be February 1st, 2008. Then 12 days for voting. Voting will close on the 12th of February, 2008.
Interestingly, I have them on the website I created, unfortunately I renamed them all, so folks wouldn't be able to cheat by looking at the file names.
I named them entry 1, 2, 3 etc for the adult pictures. and entry a, b, c etc for the baby photos.
Now I don't know who goes with who. lol Bigsis Pat's
I'll be announcing the new Nature Photo contest in the first edition of Global in the New Year (4th Jan). Daphne
Love and Blessings Jan, from the Land Down Under
The heat of summer effects the way Australians celebrate Christmas. In the weeks leading up to Christmas Day, people decorate their houses and front yards, in many cases with elaborate lights for viewing from the street, send greetings cards and parcels, set up Christmas trees in homes, schools and public places; and in many families, children are excitedly anticipating a visit from Santa Claus. On Christmas Day family and friends gather to exchange gifts and enjoy special Christmas food, maybe a traditional roast turkey and ham, or more likely seafood and salads, or a barbecue, followed by dessert, maybe plum pudding, or pavlova or fruit salad and ice cream. Some churches/charities put on a Christmas Lunch with all the trimmings for the underprivileged. (It is also to be noted that Australia is a multicultural country with people from other religions that do not celebrate Christmas).
Many Australians spend Christmas out of doors, going to the beach for the day, or heading to camping grounds for a longer break over the Christmas holiday period. It has become traditional for international visitors to Sydney to go to Bondi Beach where up to 40,000 people spend Christmas Day. (No way would we go and sit outside in the sun in the middle of Summer).
It is also the end of the school year and the commencement of the longest vacation, some schools break up at the beginning of December, and resume at the beginning of February, but the week before Christmas is the more usual breakup time, preceded by end of year concerts, graduations and Awards nights.
Whilst we hear about a decline in Church attendances, the Churches are packed for the Christmas Services, some are held on Christmas Eve as well as Christmas Day. The newspapers print Christmas messages from the leaders of the major denominations.
Carols by Candlelight is also a highlight of celebrations in many areas, sponsored by the Churches, and includes major televised events in Sydney and Melbourne. We are singing at one of these in a small country centre and I am really looking forward to it.
Most country towns also hold a secular carols evenings, sponsored by the Lions Club or similar, and feature Santa, with money raising 'chocolate wheels' or raffles in action during the carols and evening. Can you imagine singing Silent Night with someone shouting out "only 3 tickets left" in the background. We do not attend those.
On Christmas Day this year we are planning to attend Church, and the morning tea, then we drive out to some friends at Mummulgum to have Christmas with them.
Christmas in Australia link.
Next week: New Year celebrations in Australia
Kitchen Tips
WALNUTS
Walnuts are a delicious way to add extra nutrition, flavor and crunch to a meal. While walnuts are harvested in December, they are available year round a great source of those all-important omega-3 fatty acids.
Health Benefits
How to Select and Store
Shelled walnuts are generally available in prepackaged containers as well as bulk bins. Just as with any other food that you may purchase in the bulk section, make sure that the bins containing the walnuts are covered and that the store has a good product turnover so as to ensure its maximal freshness. Whether purchasing walnuts in bulk or in a packaged container, avoid those that look rubbery or shriveled. If it is possible to smell the walnuts, do so in order to ensure that they are not rancid.
Due to their high polyunsaturated fat content, walnuts are extremely perishable and care should be taken in their storage. Shelled walnuts should be stored in an airtight container and placed in the refrigerator, where they will keep for six months, or the freezer, where they will last for one year. Unshelled walnuts should preferably be stored in the refrigerator, although as long as you keep them in a cool, dry, dark place they will stay fresh for up to six months.
Please send us your favourite tips or food facts!
DISCLAIMER: Tips reflect member suggestions and are not verified by the WWWCOF.
Pami from New York would like to tell us about this 15 year old girl who was recently on Ellen. Speechless! Pami says her second song to end the show was one by Whitney Houston "I'll always love you" that was even better than the song above. She still has Goosebumps!!
David from the UK would like us to check out the following sites:
Live Victoria BirdCam: this webcam is
located on the shores of Vancouver Island in Victoria, British
Columbia, Canada where there is a migratory bird sanctuary.
Lena from Ontario, Canada says that she belongs to a recipe site called Home Cooking with Carol Tannehill, and apparently there is a place where you can sign up for 2,629 free pattern's. I dont want it. She thought you might be interested; all kinds of patterns for all kinds of different things!
Daphne from Argentina mentioned in a recent Windows Live Chat about a JavaScript source which is pretty useful. Do be sure to check it out.
Do you have a favourite site that you would like to share with the members? Please let me know and I will be happy to put it in the newsletter.
Study Carefully ..... the clues are so blatant you will be kicking
yourself if you miss them!
Don't look at the answers until you are sure you have all three right.
Mystery one:
A man was found murdered Sunday morning.
His wife immediately called the police.
The police questioned the wife and staff and got these answers:
Mystery two:
A man walks into his bathroom and shoots himself
right between the eyes using a real gun with real bullets.
He walks out alive, with no blood anywhere and no,
he didn't miss and he wasn't Superman or any other crusader wearing a cape.
How did he do this?
Mystery three:
Old Mr. Teddy was found dead in his study by Mr. Fiend.
Mr. Fiend recounted his dismal discovery to the police:
'I was walking by Mr. Teddy's house when I thought I would
just pop in for a visit. I noticed his study light was on and
I decided to peek in from the outside to see if he was in there.
There was frost on the window, so I had to wipe it away to see inside.
That is when I saw his body.
So I kicked in the front door to confirm my suspicions of foul play.
I called the police immediately afterward.'
The officer immediately arrested Mr. Fiend for the murder of Mr.Teddy.
How did he know Mr. Fiend was lying?
ANSWERS BELOW:
1. It was the Maid. She said she was getting the mail
but there is no mail delivery on Sunday.
2. He shot his reflection in the bathroom mirror.
3. Frost forms inside of the window, not the outside.
So Mr. Fiend could not have wiped it off to discover Mr. Teddy's body.
Did you get them right?
submitted by Lena from Ontario, Canada
Basic Baby Socks
Crocheted Baby Socks
MATERIALS
SOCK TOP
HEEL - ALL Stitches are through BOTH LOOPS.
Knitted Socks
Materials:
Pattern:
Heel flap:
Turn Heel:
K 18 across instep, pick up 10 along other edge of heel flap then K the 7
heel sts. = 44 sts.
K 1 round
Toe: K2tog, K7, repeat around --> 32 sts
Take a look at the new "Crafter of the Month" page. Please make an album and put some of your crafting pictures into it. I will need plenty of pictures to choose from.
Be sure to check out all the wonderful craft ideas in the WWWCOF Craft Site and lets get this group active and crafting. Any ideas, please send them my way. Add your own favourites or email me Deanna and I will be happy to add them to our ever growing collection.
Our Member of the Month for December 2007 is Charla Linder-Simmons Congratulations Charla!
I would like to thank whomever for picking me as the member of the month. It was indeed a shock! I was so surprised. Again Thank you. Charla Linder-Simmons Congratulations Charla!
January's Member of the Month nominations close December 30th so be sure to cast your ballot here today!
Keep your eye on section of the newsletter for our International Swap Information. Questions? Need additional information? Email our Swap Queen, Ruth. These exchanges are a lot of fun, they are inexpensive and are a great way to get to know the fantastic people who belong to this wonderful circle.
Have a wonderful time doing these swaps!!!
David from the UK tells us about this popular landmark in the Cowgate area of Edinburgh.
I hope you have enjoyed this week's edition of Global Express. I look forward to chatting with you online and do keep those emails coming.
Be sure to take a moment to sign up in our google board; lots of fun and a great way to get to know the members better!
Merry Christmas from Santa's Elves:
Remember to take a moment to visit the
and do check out the
Billie from Ridgely, TN
Merry Christmas from Jeanette from the Land Down Under
I believe I have seen it all now! One of my co-workers brought her cat into the office Friday morning when she came to pick up her paycheck. I was sitting in the lobby at the time and was in total awe, shock and disbelief what I saw. Rose (gal's Name) had her cat with her. No has ever brought a cat into the office before let alone having one in her arms the way she did and. not budging or squirming to get out of her clutches. The cat just stayed there. Well you just have to see these pictures to know what I am talking about.
Hope you enjoy the photos as much as I did watching her with my mouth open in disbelief!
Merry Christmas from Charla , from Florida
House is just about decorated. I still have a few things to put out that are important to the season. The snowman I mad last year and the doggie advent calendar when I finished all of my chemo treatments in 2004. The picture of the living room is the other side. Those are the panels that were giving me fits. The little tree is a foot tall and in the kitchen. It has itty bitty cookies, suckers, cookie cutter, rolling pins ... all baking items on it. And to all a good night .. Merry Christmas from Deanna from Roanoke, VA, USA.
I Miss You Daddy
I haven't gotten over it, but
some day I will.
but it has never gone away.
That night I called he sounded
good, we talked for hours and
laughed as one. Then it came,
the very next day, the call, they
said my Daddy was gone.
know in my heart. He accepted
Christ as his Savior a few weeks
before. So I know where he is,
Jesus was standing at the door.
He accepted and confessed it all,
Jesus had taken his sin. I know
that some day I will see him again.
for me. I still talk to him and tell
him good morning, even though
it's a picture and not him I see.
He doesn't need that wheel chair,
he's able to walk, no pills are
needed for all that pain.
My only comfort is that he's
with Jesus and that indeed I
will see him again.International Weather Station
Merry Christmas from the World Wide Web Circle of Friends
Members Christmas Favourites
First, sample the Cuervo to check quality. Take a large bowl. Check the
Cuervo to be sure it is of the highest quality . Pour another 4 ounces in a
measuring cup and drink. Turn on the electric mixer. Beat one cup of the
butter in a large fluffy bowl. Add one teaspoon sugar. Beat again.
At this point, it is best to make sure the Cuervo is still OK.
PREPARATION:
Makes 24 cookies. Hugs, Deanna from Roanoke, VA, USA.
( 325 degree oven for 15 mins.)
Mix first three ingredients til light and creamy add an egg yolk 7 vanilla then stir in the flour. Drop by teaspoonfuls on cookie sheet make an thumbprint in middle of each cookie and fill with desired preserves. ( I use apricot jam) or you can just press a nut in middle . Bake as stated above. Keep in tight fitting container and keep refrigerated til serving.
preheat oven to 375 and bake for 20 mins.)
filling:
Sift flour, add salt and cut in butter then add sour cream.
Wrap in waxed paper and chill overnite.
For filling combine all ingredients
When ready to bake, roll out dough 1/8 inch thick and either cut in 3 inch squares and add some filling and shape into crecent shape. or cut out 3 inch circles and make into half moons.bake as directed. while still warm roll into powdered sugar. Keep in tight fit container and keep in refrigerator.
A Brazilian Christmas recipe sent in by Grace Alencar of Brazil.
Christmas Tree Shortbread Cookies from Australia
In this issue ...
Christmas Legends
submitted by Linda from Tallassee, AL
Cherokee Indian Legend
Bigsis Pat's
Journal
Who we are never stops changing!
Pat MacMicken
REUNION ARGENTINA OCTOBER 2008
Just a quick reminder that the WWWCOF has its bi-annual reunion coming up October 2008, and that Argentina was elected, with the city of Mar del Plata as its HQ
Corrientes Province
Corrientes is approximately 88.199 km2, and has a population of 926.989 inhabitants, which represents 2.6% of the total population of the country. It is watered by the Parana and Paraguay Rivers, tobacco, tea, rice and citrus fruits are grown there, and it has important textile and timber industries.
The forests of Missiones extend into this province, where ferns, cactus, climbing plants etc all exist together and there is a variety of wildlife, alligators, deer, foxes among others.
Corrientes is also the home of Chamame, music and dance happy and animated, present in any event or festival, public or familiar.
Photo Gallery of Corrientes
Please drop by and visit the official 2008 Reunion Website where you'll find a lot of the information you need. Charla's Prayer Requests
By Warren D. Jennings
But Santa still knelt by the side of the bed.
There's much work to do and my schedule is tight.
Knowing full well that a reindeer can't fly.
I'll cover the world and all in one night.
Amid the soft clatter of each little hoof.
So I'll slide down the chimney of each child's heart.
The supply will be endless like the loaves and the fishes.
I'll eat every cookie that is left for my snack.
I just need your blessing, then it's easy to do.
That was sent to redeem us, Your most Holy Son.
Please Lord, remind them who gave me this job."Our Furry Friends in the Spotlight
Moose is a Cardigan Welsh Corgi. There are two types of Corgis, Pembroke and Cardigan, but most Corgi snobs will tell you that the only "real" ones are the Cardigans because they have tails. The queen of England has Pembroke ones, so maybe that's why the Cardigan people have a chip on their shoulder about it. Anyways, we wanted a dog with a tail, so my wife and I looked around on the internet for pictures of these dogs that we saw briefly on Animal Planet, and when we saw a bunch of pictures and read about them we totally fell in love. We contacted a AKC breeder and found one that had puppies so we headed out to meet them. There were about 6 puppies left in the litter, and when we showed we just sort of sat around and let the puppies play. One puppy in particular just would not leave me alone and was totally crawling all over me. We even tried to put him over with the other puppies, and he would just come crawling back. It was just meant to be! 
Moose is now a big brother to all of our kids, and loves to play with them and eat all the food that "falls" off of their plates. His best friend is still our cat Binky, who he loves to chase around and slobber on, much to Binky's chagrin. 
Dave from the USA
Jami from Maryland, USA
Author Unknown
As you all know, humane societies every where recommend that Christmas gift-givers NOT GIVE LIVE ANIMALS AS UNEXPECTED GIFTS. You've read it all here before. A pet in the family requires a serous commitment. No one should be surprised with an unexpected puppy as a gift at this time of the year.
Common Expressions - Origin & Meaning
The figurative expression 'getting down to brass tacks' isn't particularly old as phrases go. Its first known appearance, in the USA in 1863, was in the Texas newspaper The Tri-Weekly Telegraph:
Mystery Member
Last week's Mystery Member remains a mystery. Just who do you think this mystery member is?
Who am I?Bragging Rights
Let's Do Lunch
Baby Photo Contest
In case you were wondering, yes I am still going to do the Baby Photo Contest, however I've run into a few snags. Therefore I will be pushing it forward to Valentine's day.WILDLIFE PHOTO CONTEST
Australian Report
News & Announcements
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Health Watch
Tips & Recommendations
When it comes to their health benefits, walnuts definitely are not a hard nut to crack. This delicious nut is an excellent source of omega-3 essential fatty acids, a special type of protective fat the body cannot manufacture. Walnuts' concentration of omega-3s (a quarter-cup provides 90.8% of the daily value for these essential fats) has many potential health benefits ranging from cardiovascular protection, to the promotion of better cognitive function, to anti-inflammatory benefits helpful in asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory skin diseases such as eczema and psoriasis. In addition, walnuts contain an antioxidant compound called ellagic acid that supports the immune system and appears to have several anticancer properties.
When purchasing whole walnuts that have not been shelled, choose those that feel heavy for their size. Their shells should not be cracked, pierced or stained, as this is oftentimes a sign of mold development on the nutmeat, which renders it unsafe for consumption.
Email me, Daphne with your comments and suggestions; actually email me, Daphne anytime!FEATURED SITES
and the Niagara Parks Webcam: where you can enjoy a spectacular
view of Niagara Falls.
My much older brother, Wayne & his lovely wife Jenny from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada tell us that BC Hydro has a Christmas Card for you but more importantly they will donate to the BC Childrens hospital each time someone activates the site. It is for a good cause, and not a bad Christmas Card.
3 Mysteries
how many can you solve?
The police instantly arrested the murderer.
Who did it and how did they know?
ANSWERS:Crafts
Size: 3 to 6 months. (Foot length approx. 4 inches.)
Gauge: 6 sc = 1 inch, 7 rows of sc = 1 inch.
ALL STITCHES in the remaining rows are through BACK LOOPS ONLY.
You now have a tube shape of ribbing. To start the foot of the sock, with right side facing you, ch 1, 1 sc at base of ch 1, 1 sc along each end of ribbing rows, ss to join to first sc at beg. (29 sc)
CONTINUE WITH THE REST OF THE FOOT:
Cut yarn leaving an 8 to 10 inch tail. Sew with darning needle to close up end. Secure closing and fasten off. 
Yarn: 3 ply baby or sock yarn
Needles: set of 4 or 5 double pointed size 1 (2.50 mm)
Gauge:
8 sts & 10 rows = 1"
Cast on 36 sts and join in round
Work 8 rounds K1, P1 rib
Knit 20 rounds
K18, turn, P18, turn
Work another 10 rows in stockinette
K11, SKPO, turn
P6, P2tog, turn
K6, SKPO, turn
Repeat rows 2 and 3 until you work across all heel sts and have 7 left.
Pick up 9 st along edge of heel flap
Next round: K6, K2tog, K20, K2tog tbl, K14
K 1 round
Next round: K5, K2tog, K20, K2tog tbl, K13
K 1 round
Next round: K4, K2tog, K20, K2tog tbl, K12
K 1 round
Next round: K3, K2tog, K20, K2tog tbl, K11 --> 36 sts
K 8 rounds
K 1 round
K2tog, K6, repeat around --> 28 sts
K 1 round
Continue decreasing in this manner until 8 sts remain. Cut yarn and thread through stitches. Pull up tight and fasten off. Member of the Month Nominations
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