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GLOBAL EXPRESS
"The bond that links your true family is not one of blood, but of respect and joy in each other's life. Rarely do members of one family grow up under the same roof." - Richard Bach
There is absolutely no better way to start of an issue of Global Express than with a welcome to new members to the World Wide Web Circle of Friends. According to my records we now have 196 members. Linda from China was our 100th member; I wonder who are 200th member will be.
- Tina from Arbroath, Scotland, UK. Her hobbies include writing, making friends, eating out, being with her family and making graphics. She is a Mother and a Grandmother and she keeps busy with the IRC Chat Servers and her online friends around the globe. Betsy introduced her to the WWWCOF -- thank you Betsy; we are so happy to have her here.
- Merrie from Ontario Canada who at the moment only has internet access at her local library for 1 to 1 1/2 hours per day but would so love to be a part of our group. She says she is pushing the heck out of 60, loves hiking, canoeing, camping, reading, and all things to do with Nature. As for collections - yes, she has a lovely crystal/mineral collection.
Ellen from Georgia, USA who would love to join our group and make lots of new friends. Her favourite colour is green and she collects ladybugs and birdhouses. She has the ladybugs on her computer desk and the birdhouses in her kitchen. She lives in the country and since she is homebound because of illness, she spends a lot of time on my computer. She also likes to read. Her two sons are in the military, one in the army and the other in the navy in Connecticut and Texas and her daughter is a stay at home mom.
The landscapes of the world are as varied as they are beautiful so please share something about your corner of the globe so we can discover the world through each others eyes.
If it's worth seeing or hearing or doing, do be sure to see and hear and do it!!
No better chance for a life experience than that of attending Reunion 2008 in Argentina.
Bragging Rights
Here we are, round the kitchen table, myself, my daughter and 2 of my grandaughters! We had a good laugh, and even played some music together. My mango fruitcake went down well. Aussie Jan
Here is a picture of my Little Sister Sue giving her niece Shadow a smooch. Jami from Maryland.
Hello I been busy making Tinker Belle curtains for my next to youngest Granddaughter Jessie's 10th birthday. Here is a picture of her Tinker Belle Room.
Hasn't Jessie's mother done a great job. The curtains were the last touch.
Charla, from Florida, USA.
Bigsis Pat's
Journal
Hello again.
On Wednesday January 16th I got up full of anticipation. Today I was starting my new job as a volunteer at Port Thrift Store. Port Thrift Store, managed by Joan Cunningham, operates under the auspices of
The Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) Binational Thrift shop Network. Which in turn is a service of MCC and Brethren in Christ Church. The thrift stores are located all across Canada & the US, and in the last 12 months, MCC thrift shops have brought in more than $10 million CAD. or $8.8 million U.S., for MCC's work.
The manager, Joan is one of the sweetest ladies I know. Last year when Darryl & I were separating, she came to pick up some stuff I was donating. When I told her what was happening, she gave me a hug and said she would keep me in her prayers. I also met George & Joan (another person) a couple who volunteer together. As well I met several others, devoted volunteers; a very happy group who made me feel very welcome.
One in particular, a young woman, named Beth who is involved in another very intriguing volunteer organization, called Katimavik
Katimavik offers young Canadians an exciting experience that incorporates learning and volunteer involvement. It is Canada's leading national youth volunteer-service program. During their 9 or 8 months with Katimavik, participants ages 17 to 21 live in three regions of Canada. They are involved in exciting volunteer projects in each community. Katimavik's partners benefit from the young participants' service in the communities while contributing to the growth of Canadian youth. Everyone wins! I was very impressed with a young person so dedicated to helping others.
Port Thrift Sore has been undergoing remodeling since the week between Christmas & New Years, so everything is still in a stated organized disorganization. It isn't a very large shop, but recently took over some space from nest door, which allowed them to provide Joan with a well deserved and definitely needed office. I will begin my regular shift next Monday and look forward to learning more about the thrift store business from the other side of the counter.
January 22, 2008 - This week on Monday I went in for my second and actually first real shift (last week was more of an orientation). As many of you in the north east of the US know, we have been experiencing very cold temperatures, so when I arrived in the shop, we all discovered it was cold in there. Joan suggested we all take something from the racks to help keep us warm. So there we all were, walking around with jackets & vests with tags hanging from them. What a site we were!
My job to start the day was to put out items that had previously been sorted and priced. It's a good job because it helped me familiarize myself with the store layout. Another job was to replace items that had previously been moved out during the remodeling.
After a break, Joan asked me to help her with two very special items. But first a little background:
On occasion, they receive items that are just to good, and actually worth more than regular thrift store prices, to just put on the shelves, so they are put up for auction. They have a special place in the shop for these items, which are numbered. and dated then recorded in a binder. They usually choose a starting bid, and customers come in and write their bids in the book, and I believe have to raise the bid by a minimum of $2 or $5 (not exactly sure). Each item is up for auction for a period of two weeks. At that time, the bidding closes and the person with highest bid wins. It's a win-win situation, because the customer can get a great bargain, and the shop makes a little more than if it was put out on the shelves and regularly priced. The items up for auction vary; can be lovely handmade items, antique items, collectibles and so forth.
Now, back to the special items I was asked to help Joan with. The first was a darling little Christening dress. The little dress was made with simple white cotton under dress, and a white satin bolero type jacket that fastened in the back. The jack was trimmed in a simple tatting edging; the whole thing was hand made. I found a sweet little pink wooden hanger, very antique looking, on which Joan could hang this beautiful little dress for display for auction.
The other item was an absolutely gorgeous wedding dress. It was made with the softest, palest pink satin underskirt, over which covered in the most beautiful white lace. The hem was trimmed with a coordinating lace flounce. It had a very high Victorian neckline, short puff sleeves, and the bodice was decorated with seed pearls; and lastly had a stunning long train. Did I mention this lovely piece of work was all hand made. My job was to press it, to make it ready for display as an auction item. All in all it was a great day, can't wait for next week. Till next time,
doubt those who find it."
(Andre Gide)
Don't forget to check the Birthday Calendar to see when members are celebrating their special days.
- Jan. 25 - Reuben (Daphne's son) from Argentina's birthday
- Jan. 25 - Meg from Prescott, Ontario, Canada's birthday
- Irene, aka Scotty, from Washington, USA's hubby's birthday
- Jan. 31 - Arizona Albert
- Jan 31 - Woody (Loretta's husband) from Texas' birthday
- Feb. 1 - Fay from Lancashire, England's birthday
- Feb. 2 - Barry (Aussie Jan's husband's) 70th birthday
- Feb. 5 - Garnet (Peachy Marie's husband) from Ontario, Canada's birthday
- Feb. 6 - BigSis from Ontario, Canada's birthday
- Feb. 7 - George (Ruth's husband) from Michigan, USA's birthday
- Feb. 7 - Gustavo (Charito's husband) from Argentina's birthday - not just any birthday either - THE BIG 5 0 !!!
We look forward to hearing all about your special day.
If you are not listed in the calendar please be sure to email 
Jami from Maryland.
Featured Story of the Week
Daphne & Leo's Anniversary
Thank you everyone who sent us their wishes for our 33rd anniversary, no idea how we have survived so long!!!! You can see our pictures of the event here (Enero 08 album)
I'll leave you wishing you all a VERY HAPPY Week! Would love to hear from you.
Daphne from Argentina
Dear Heather
What do you think?
I have a friend who moved to Iowa last spring. Her boyfriend of 10 years has lost his job and wanted to move back to his hometown. she willingly wanted to go. The man is only 59 years old and decides he is going to retire early. Not going to work anymore. She on the other hand has to work full time to make a living for both of them.
All he got when he was let go was his 401k, which wasn't a lot either. I think the guy is lazy and taking advantage of her bad. It irks me when i hear she's been Ill and still going to work while he just sits on his butt all day.
I am very outspoken person and have voiced my concerns but falls to deaf ears.... How do I get through to her that he is using her? -- Unknown
Dear Unknown,
"There are none so blind as they who will not see, there as none so deaf as they who will not hear".
Your concern is laudable. I hope your friend knows how much you care. Unfortunately I can't be much help.
You can tell her but she will not see something she doesn't want to see. If, as you say, they have been together for 10 years, that's longer than many marriages these days, they must suit each other. It's very hard to see someone you are close to with someone you don't particularly care for, but if they are happy that's what really matters. In your shoes, having told her what you think, I'd say no more. Perhaps a little nudge or hint if the topic comes up again. Keep in touch, let her know you are there for her and hope/pray everything works out for both of them.
Sorry I can't give you a solution.
Your friend Heather
Dear Heather
My husband never closes a cabinet door, puts the lid back on the oatmeal or coffee or replaces a trash bag when he take one out. I have done everything I know. He is retired so it's not like he works everyday. Any suggestions? Thank you. Anonymous
Dear Anonymous,
You have my sympathy. I used to think it was a man thing but I know women who do it too. Not knowing what you've tried please bear with me if what follows are things you tried before.
Suggestions:
- Firstly talk to him, tell him how you feel in a calm tone.
- Call him and ask him to 'put the top on, replace the garbage bag, close the door", as soon as you notice, hopefully he'll get fed up having to come back.
- Store the items he leaves open in the same cabinet so you only have one door to close.
- Say nothing and do these things for him.
- Have him clean the garbage can inside and out when he empties it .......... maybe he'll put a new bag in so you don't mess it up.
- Confiscate the items he leaves open.
- Don't buy them.
- Don't use a garbage bag and have him clean it.
- Personally I'd try the first two suggestions. Good luck.
So, is there something or your mind? Write to 
Heather directly and she will do her best to answer all questions in the spirit of friendship and caring based on the information given non judgmentally. If I am unable to answer, I'll try to direct you to the appropriate place.
It's the welshduck here, it hasn't stopped raining for weeks and I'm going quackers stuck indoors. At least it's given me the time to prepare a page for this week; hope you enjoy it.
When I was very young my dad contracted tuberculosis, so I spent a lot of time at my grandmothers, while mum visited him in hospital. My nanna (grandmother) lived in a cottage that was part of a 'terrace' of old, stone built miners cottages, built in the late 1800's, to a design common around S. Wales
Downstairs (ground floor) was 1 main room with a couple of built in 'cold' pantries and a large fireplace/range. All the cooking was done on this range, I've not drawn them in the sketch
but there were several swing out plates (trivets) attached to the range that were swivelled out over the fire to hold pots and pans; and in the oven on the LH side nan produced the most wonderful roasts and rice-puddings. Suspended from the ceiling above the range was the 'clothes-airer', this was usually also the drying spot for garden herbs and often a bunch or two of lavender.
The door to the 'stairs' was to the right of the range; and the stairs, themselves made of stone, were part of and wrapped around the outside of the chimney; they were very narrow and formed into a spiral; so anything that went into the bedrooms had to go up in pieces (chests of drawers, tall-boys, beds). The exit from the stairs was straight into 1 bedroom, and access to the second bedroom was through the first, neither bedroom being much bigger than about 12ft by 10ft anyway; so space was at a premium.
The toilet or 'privvy' was at the bottom of the garden about 30yds from the house and again part of a block (1 privvy for each house and woe betide you if you used the wrong one), and required periodic servicing with buckets of water, which had to be carried down from the house. Of the 6 families that lived in the terrace,
my nan was the only one who owned a TV, this highly polished, impressive looking cabinet housed a screen that was all of about 6ins square, but drew in visitors from all down the row at news time or when something important was on. Funny really, I remember the visitors - but not the programs that they watched; I do remember the children's programs of the time though, mostly badly operated puppet shows, sock puppets or still pictures, with someone reading a story. I used to sit entranced. Ah happy days!Now for that little story.
On one of the few fine days last summer, we took ourselves off on a day trip to the Museum of Welsh Life near Cardiff (capitol of Wales). This is a magical place, full of fascinating exhibits and many ancient Welsh buildings, which were carefully dismantled at their original site and re-built using original materials and skills at the museum. Dwellings here range from Celtic 'Round-Houses', to a type of pre-fabricated 'bungalow', built as emergency housing to replace those destroyed by the bombing raids of the second world war.
As we wandered around I was struck by the appearance of a terrace of old cottages, and as we drew nearer I realised that it was indeed the terrace of which nan's old house was part. Going through the door, I was immediately transported back through all those years; and stood, dumb, rooted to the spot for some moments until digs in the ribs and loud protests moved me further into the room - and back into my past!
We must have spent 45 minutes or more in there as I explained how the range worked, what the airer was for; where the stairs were, etc.: I'm sure the young guide provided by the museum learned a lot that morning, as did the people who came in with us, (one of whom I know thought that I was the guide and thanked me on his way out). But what brought tears of nostalgia to my eyes, was nan's old TV standing where I remembered it in the corner, with the old, rag rug that I used to sit on, laid on the floor in front of it.
Later as we wandered around other buildings and exhibits I suddenly thought O.M.G.; some of my life is on exhibit, here at the MUSEUM - how old have I become?
Growing up in South Wales during the late 1950's and early 60's was a wonderful experience; each small village or community you passed through as you progressed up or down your valley, seemed to have its own identity; but at the same time shared a common background. You see, each village had grown up around an employment opportunity; usually a colliery or mine, but sometimes a factory or a steelworks.
All the men-folk of the village (often several generations side by side) worked at the local mine or factory; while wives and mothers looked after house and home, and raised the children. 
Roads were not so good in those days; and 'family cars' a rarity; while buses - if you were lucky enough to live near a bus route, passed through perhaps 4 times per day. So all that was needed to provide for the community e.g. grocery stores, clothes shops, a butcher, cobbler, fishmonger, etc., were all present in each village. Every village too, had its own chapel, often 2 or 3; where, on a Sunday morning, the whole community came together to praise the Lord in music and word; and also to notice any-one who was missing! 
Little wonder, then, that the Welsh were such gossips and 'tattle-tellers', for each of us knew every other member of the village; (an 'in' joke of the time tells that some-one at one end of the village burped, and 3 people at the other end said "pardon me"). Of course, this way of life had its advantages too; you were never without friends, nor did you face adversity alone; your washing - if you were out when it rained was 'taken in'. I remember that in those days, you could go away for a week's vacation, leaving your doors unlocked and a few tins of food on the table for someone to feed the cat; friendship and trust were a way of life because it was impossible to keep a secret anyway.
So this is the sort of background in which I grew up, caring and supportive (if a little nosey), and full of trust. However, for a young lad with a twinkle in his eye and mischief on his mind this way of life had a few drawbacks; you see everything you did was seen and reported back to mum or dad, and if the local bobby (policeman) caught you in the act you got a swift clip around the ear. I remember once stealing plums from the tree in the local doctor's garden, nothing came of it at the time but the next time I visited the doctor (for some childhood ailment), the medicine was AWFULL and presented to me with a plum!
Towards Christmas time in 1963 (I was 12yrs old), our family moved to a newly built housing 'estate'; hundreds of new houses, arranged as a 'village', perched on the top of a hill. I hated it at first and remember telling my parents so on many occasions. However, the majority of our neighbors had also recently moved in, and we were mostly also from the same type of background; so it wasn't too long before the estate became a village. I was at secondary (high) school by then; I found study quite easy and didn't have to try too hard to stay at the top of the class. This left me plenty of time to plan and instigate mischief and boy did I take advantage of that situation!
Years passed and I grew a little older but sad to say no less mischievous; I ran cross country for the school, district and county, played rugby twice a week, cycled or went fishing each weekend, etc., but still found time for 'trouble'. 17 years old now - a working man (well apprentice actually), and at the Friday night dance I spot a petit, gorgeous, red haired girl; she smiles and says hello and I'm lost. Three days before my 18th birthday and - well, that's another story!
For those readers that like maps I have spent a little time in Google maps preparing a map of the area where I grew up. Look out for the paddle symbols, these show places where I lived. I have also shown the positions of many of the larger or more well known collieries, mines and steelworks in the area, marked with Map pins. To see the map, just follow this link.
Diolch-yn-fawr
(thank you very much)
Here is an great example of how we acquire news items for Global Express. This story went from one continent to another, neither of which was Canada -- about Canada. Also, it contains a very valuable lesson about teamwork which is what the WWWCOF can pride itself on being so good at. Do enjoy!
Aussie Jan received this from a friend of hers from The Netherlands.
Several years ago a new breed of horses was tested in Canada. Researchers found that one horse could pull an eight-ton load. When they teamed two horses together they anticipated that the horses would pull 16 or 18 tons. To their surprise they pulled a 30-ton load.
This is the principle of synergism. Synergism states that two or more objects working together can produce a greater effect than the objects working independently of each other.
Accomplishing your goals in life depends on your ability to work with others. The word unity means a state of oneness, agreement and coherence; the combination of separate parts into a connected whole; and different people working together for a common purpose.
The Further Adventures of 
Dabthoms, aka David from Essex, England
At the moment I'm doing fine. Haven't anything about the bard 
(Robbie Burns) to send you. Robbie Burns Day officially is January 25th but, seeing as people are celebrating on an almost year round basis the following could be useful.
Since June 2001 Scotland's police have been empowered to carry out a set of roadside tests for drivers suspected of being under the influence of drugs. The tests, devised in the US, are supposedly foolproof, but one remains hopeful that sensible Scottish fools may yet prove to be immune. Practice these "Dope Test" routines now and keep going until you can still do it proficiently even after twelve spliffs of Nepalese Temple Ball.
OFFICIAL POLICE DRUG TEST
- Estimate 30 seconds while standing feet together, eyes closed and head tilted back.
- Touch the nose with one index finger, then the other, three times.
- Walk in a straight line, turning and walking back.
- Stand on one leg for a set period of time.
- LSD
- Marijuana
- Ecstasy
- Speed
I believe the following techniques, devised in Scotland, would be far more effective in ascertaining the guilt or otherwise of a suspected drug-taker:
- a) Ask the suspect why their spacecraft is melting. If he/she appears to have the remotest idea what you're talking about, they are almost certainly on LSD.
- b) Reassure the suspect that, in spite of the flashing lights and scary siren, "Big hugs" is all you're interested in. If they respond affectionately and embrace you tightly there is absolutely no doubt that Ecstasy has been taken.
- c) Take the suspect for a KFC. If he/she is able to eat it, this is a sure indication of marijuana smoking.
- d) Ask the suspect to give you a hand with painting your front room. If they agree and go to it with relish, finishing within two hours, they have more than likely been taking amphetamines or Red Bull and Vodka.
- e) Bang the suspect's head sharply with a night-stick, knocking them unconscious. Ask them directly "Have you been taking drugs?" If they don't answer, assume guilt by non-denial and lock them up immediately, before they wake up.
I was doing some grocery shopping very early in the morning in the isle where the air fragrance was and my tummy was just feeling very yucky. I started feeling like if I could just get rid of a little gas I would be fine. I kept trying not to. I was looking at the Lysol and different things when I just knew I couldn't hold it any longer. I looked up & down the isle several times and no one around. I thought well if I just let a little at a time out no one will hear it. I looked one more time...here we go...just a little..WOW! No Little to it. Beyond my control...RRRIIIPPP....just as as I did this a man behind me says..."Well you're in the right isle!" Oh my gosh I could have died! He went on laughing his guts out and I cut my shopping very short!
Daddy's Shoes
- a day in the life of Dave
I was walking through the cafeteria today, and I heard someone whistling a tune which I immediately recognized as "Bibbity Bobbity Boo" from Cinderella. I know this song by heart because I have a three year old daughter who LOVES Cinderella.
I turned around and said "You must have a daughter?" He looked at me sort of surprised, then said "Oh no! What was I whistling?" I told him what it was and he said "Oh yep, that's right. At least it wasn't Winnie the Pooh!"
That sort of thing happens to me ALL the time, but usually I'm the one whistling the tune. :)
Australian Report
January 26 is "officially" Australia Day but
Aussie Jan tells us they celebrate Australia Day on 28th, in NSW anyway, not 26th. Actually having 26th as the official day, and the holiday on the 28th, people get confused and don't know which day the celebrations are on.
I have some wonderful memories of celebrating Australia Day in Sydney, walking across the Harbour Bridge in the early morning to enjoy all the events around the Opera House, the Tall Ships, dragonboat races, ferry races, the flyover and aerobatics, then up through Hyde Park and take in the events there, and on to Darling Harbour to view the water events, formation skiers etc, and finishing with the fireworks spectacular in the evening. There are concerts at different venues too.
We've moved to the country now, and quite content not to have such full- on celebrations these days.
Celebrations are held around the country, with 320 centres having an Australia Day Ambassador, chosen from all walks of life. Ours is Zara Mee an Olympic softball player who currently holds a Guinness World Record as the fastest female softball pitcher at 111km/h. She will join in whatever is going on here. Its the day for Citizenship ceremonies, Australian of the Year and the Australia Day honours list. As this country was built on damper (recipe and pictures can be found in the Recipe section) and billy tea, there is plenty of that wherever you go, traditionally served with golden syrup.
This year it is quiet for us, Richmond Lodge the Aged Care Home wants an Australia Day program, so we are singing there, then on to a First Fleeters lunch. On Sunday after church everyone is going out to a home in the country for the rest of the day, and we are being offered damper for morning tea. Barry was asked to bring his guitar on Sunday, so he is practising Australian songs that he doesn't usually do, and I dragged out a lagerphone which is a home - made instrument used in bush bands, going back to the days when people made their own instruments and music.
It is a broomstick or hoe handle with about 200 beer (lager) bottle tops nailed on. It is bounced on the floor in time to the music, whilst tapping and scraping with the stick. Barry made one with a hooter and bicycle bell on it, but it disappeared, and we have one we bought at a campoven festival now. We were playing it at our Monday Music last night. Barry does it very well, me not so good. Barry can get a tune out of any musical instrument we have come across, he plays by ear, and when we hear a song we are interested in he can pick out the key and play along on the guitar or mandolin straight away. He also has a beautiful singing voice. He has never had lessons, but has studied up theory himself.
Report from Argentina
Argentina is a vast country from sub antarctic to tropical, very high mountains to extensive plains. It is impossible to describe all the sights, all the colour, the intrigue, the romance .... some things just have to be experienced!
Daphne from Argentina
Who's Who?
Billie, from Ridgely, TN USA - Billie Maurice Pigue Simmons' namesake was Maurice after her father. She was born in Halls Army Airforce Hospital Hall, TN USA. She collects pigs (her maiden name was spelled Pigue but pronounced just plain old pig). She is a caregiver for her elderly mother (85). She has a black chow who is about 10 who is her big baby!
Do read more about Billie and the other members in the Member Profile Pages.
One member at a time helping each other to understand ourselves.
Would you not agree???
January Trivia Pages
In this issue ...
Click on any of the following to be taken to that section of the newsletter. If you can come up with any icons for the sections below I would sure appreciate you sending them to me. Please notify me of any broken links.
Adventures of Dabthoms
- Announcements
Argentina Report
- Australian Report
- Baby Photo Contest
Bigsis Pat's Journal
- Bragging Rights
- Canadian 'Eh
- Char's World
- Daddy's Shoes
- Computers 101
- Common Expressions
- Crafts
- Featured Sites
- Featured Story of the Week
Fun
- Google Boards
Dear Heather
- Kitchen Tips
- Member of the Month
- Messages from Members
- Mystery Member
- Nature's Water Features Photo Contest
- New Members
- Pet of the Week
- Planet Kryzys
Prayer Requests
- Pursuit of Excellence
- Questions & Answers
Recipes
- Reunion 2008
- TV Show Poll
- Weather Updates
- Welshgog
- Who's Who?
Very Important Announcements
ICE
In Case of Emergency
We all carry our mobile phones with names & numbers stored in its memory but nobody, other than ourselves, knows which of these numbers belong to our closest family or friends. If we were to be involved in an accident or were taken ill, the people attending us would have our mobile phone but wouldn't know who to call. Yes, there are hundreds of numbers stored but which one is the contact person in case of an emergency? Hence this 'ICE' (In Case of Emergency) Campaign.
The concept of 'ICE' is catching on quickly. It is a method of contact during emergency situations. As cell phones are carried by the majority of the population, all you need to do is store the number of a contact person or persons who should be contacted during emergency under the name 'ICE' ((In Case Of Emergency).
The idea was thought up by a paramedic who found that when he went to the scenes of accidents, there were always mobile phones with patients, but they didn't know which number to call. He therefore thought that it would be a good idea if there was a nationally recognized name for this purpose. In an emergency situation, Emergency Service personnel and hospital Staff would be able to quickly contact the right person by simply dialing the number you have stored as 'ICE.'
For more than one contact name simply enter ICE1, ICE2 and ICE3 etc. A great idea that will make a difference! Let's spread the concept of ICE by storing an ICE number in our Mobile phones today! It really could save your life, or put a loved one's mind at rest. ICE will speak for you when you are not able to. 
Rosina from Nova Scotia, Canada.
Edith from Uganda sent us this lovely sentiment recently -- The value of jewelry is expensive, the value of money is precious and the value of having a good friend like you is highly honoured and treasured. She also thanks us so much for loving and accepting her, she says she feels loved for sure and prays God blesses our families and keeps us safe.
from Barb from Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada
International Weather Station
Hey y'all,
January 19 - Its snowing here and all around SW Alabama. This is a very unusual event for us and my family gets excited when it happens. I know people that have it all the time dont like it but I do, guess its because we dont get it but every once in a blue moon. 
Wanda from Thomasville, AL, USA
Daphne reminds us that a blue moon is once every two years or so, named after when there are two full moons in any given month.
January 20 -
Emma said we should've been at her house, here in Maryland, last Thursday. The snow was coming down like crazy.
I shoveled the driveway off, and cleaned the snow off of my car, so I could go to the store up the street. My hair was dripping wet, and by the time I dried it a little to go, everything was covered up again! It did look very beautiful, though.
Jami said she heard we were supposed to get flurries today. It's going to be freezing tonight, as the temperature is going down to 7 degrees! Brrrrrrr!
Cindy from Phillipston, MA is so glad some of us are getting a taste of their beautiful white stuff and says we have really had a lot of it this year. My family is very happy that they can ride around here and not have to travel to Canada this year to ride snowmobiles. We were long overdue. Haven't had much for the past few years.
Have fun playing in the snow! Get out and make a quick snowman before it's all gone. Aussie Jan tells us that Monday morning (January 21) here sunny currently 23 C with forecast max 30C. I looked it up and apparently it was 30C yesterday, minimum of 21C. It was a very pleasant day, didn't feel too hot.
Jan says that the highest recorded temperature in Australia is 53.1 C (127.58 F) at Cloncurry, Queensland, on 16 January 1889.
Yes 1889.
Cloncurry is located 766 km west of Townsville and 189 m above sea-level, Cloncurry owes its existence to the discovery of copper and its subsequent status as the most important transportation centre in Western Queensland. Indeed the first copper in Western Queensland was discovered here. The first regular Qantas flight landed at Cloncurry and John Flynn established his first Flying Doctor Base in the town.
Baby Photo Contest
Got any old photos of yourself as a baby or a young child tucked away in a box or a drawer? Send one to me along with a photo of you as an adult and see if folks can match them up.
January 31, 2008.
Then let the "game begin!" Everyone will have a chance to see how good they are at matching them up.
Voting will continue until February 9th, 2008 and results will be published in the Feb 12th issue of the Global Express, just in time for Valentines Day! Have fun!
Bigsis Pat from Ontario, Canada
NATURE'S WATER FEATURES PHOTO CONTEST
This time the Theme is "Nature's Water Features"
That, of course includes water in all the forms nature brings it in.
The rules are simple:
- Pictures must be 'Members own' - or close friends and family of members - we are not looking for photos taken from the internet or other sources
- Photos must be identified in where/when they were taken and who took the picture
- They can be sent to Daphne or to Sharon, or posted on the Circle Group Google board where I will pick them up
- They can be in any size or format (but not too small) I can adjust the size as needed
- Contest closes Easter, which this year is 21st-24th March, which also coincides roughly with the Circle's anniversary. Voting will start the following week.
- This contest is open to all members of any age anywhere on Planet Earth
Daphne from Argentina
Recipe Corner
Vegetarian Puffs
WWWCOF COOKBOOK
Yield: 36 Servings Preparation Time: 1:00
Cup Carnival finger food from
Aussie Jeanette - 3 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 1 Tbl olive oil
- 3 spring onions, thinly sliced
- 2 Clove garlic, crushed
- 2 Tbl chopped fresh oregano
- 1/4 Cup chopped Kalamata olives
- 2 Tbl chopped, drained, sun-dried tomatoes in oil
- 6 0g marinated fetta, drained crumbled
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 Cup cream
- Extra fresh oregano to garnish
2. Using a 6cm fluted cutter, cut out 12 rounds from each sheet of pastry. Gently press pastry rounds into holes of prepared pans.
3. Heat oil in a small frying pan. Add spring onions, garlic and oregano, cook, stirring, until onions are soft. Remove from heat and transfer to a medium bowl. Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes and fetta. Season with salt and pepper and mix well. Divide olive mixture among pastry cases.
4. Whisk eggs and cream together in a small jug. Pour over olive mixture, being careful not to over-fill.
5. Cook in a moderately hot oven (190C) for about 25-30 minutes or until puffed and golden brown. Stand puffs in pans for 5 minutes.
6. Serve warm or cold puffs garnished with extra oregano.
Hint. Uncooked puffs can be frozen in the muffin pans, for up to 2 months. Thaw in refrigerator before cooking.
Baked Lemon Pudding
WWWCOF COOKBOOK
Yield: 4 Servings
Sent in by
Aussie Jan- 1 Tbl butter
- 3/4 Cup sugar
- 2 Tbl plain flour
- juice 2 lemons
- a little rind of lemon (grated)
- 2 eggs
- 1 Cup milk
Four serves.
Jami's Sloppy Joes- 1 pound hamburger
- 1 meduim size onion chopped fine.
- about 1 cup Ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
Aussie Jan's Easy Mango Fruitcake
No butter or sugar. Can be varied easily by adding spices, nuts, ginger etc. Or substitute port or sherry for some of the water.
Ingredients:
- 425 gram can mango slices in natural juice
- 500 grams mixed fruit
- Half cup water ....... simmer these one minute
- Add 1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda
- Let cool then add 2 lightly beaten eggs and one and a half cups self raising flour
Bake in pan lined with baking paper for one hour or so in moderate oven. Cool in tin.
This is one of my favorite comfort foods, fairly easy to make and very good on a cold day or any other day for that matter. Some people call it chicken with noodles because it has eggs in the dough but I just call it chicken & dumplings. You can use frozen dumplings instead of making homemade but the taste isn't the same. This is not from a recipe book so I hope it makes sense, if anyone has questions please feel free to send an email and I will try to answer the question.
Wanda from Thomasville, AL, USA
Chicken & Dumplings/Noodles- Whole chicken or chicken parts
- 3-4 chicken bouillon cubes
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 2 cans chicken broth or more if desired, reserve 1 cup for dumpling dough
- Salt & pepper
- 2 eggs
- 1-1/2 to 2 cups flour
Place flour in a medium sized bowl and add eggs. Stir while adding a small amount of broth at a time so you can be sure to get all the lumps out. Add enough of the broth to make a fairly stiff dough. Divide dough in half and place on a floured surface. Knead a bit and then using a rolling pin, roll dough to about 1/4" thick. Cut into strips and then cut again to make each strip about 2" long and add to boiling broth. Repeat with the other half of dough. Cook until dumplings are almost done and then add chicken for the last few minutes of cooking.
Aussie Jan's Damper in the Camp Oven
- 4 cups Self Rising flour
- 1/2 teasp baking powder
- About 1-1/3 cups water
- Handful sultanas
- Mix flour and baking powder, add sultanas
- Make a well in centre and add water.
- Mix to soft dough, knead and shape into flattened round ball
- Place on trivet in heated camp oven, on coals off the fire.
- Put some coals on top. Try after 25 minutes.
- Damper is cooked when it sounds hollow when lightly tapped.
- Traditionally, serve spread with golden syrup.
THIS WEEK:
Kitchen Tips
Kitchen Tips
THIS WEEK: FOODS FOR HEALTH
- A sliced Carrot looks like the human eye The pupil, iris and radiating lines look just like the human eye...and YES science now shows that carrots greatly enhance blood flow to and function of the eyes.
- A Tomato has four chambers and is red. The heart is red and has four chambers. All of the research shows tomatoes are indeed pure heart and blood food.
- Grapes hang in a cluster that has the shape of the heart. Each grape looks like a blood cell and all of the research today shows that grapes are also profound heart and blood vitalizing food.
- A Walnut looks like a little brain, a left and right hemisphere, upper cerebrums and lower cerebellums. Even the wrinkles or folds are on the nut just like the neo-cortex. We now know that walnuts help develop over 3 dozen neuron-transmitters for brain function.
- Kidney Beans actually heal and help maintain kidney function and yes, they look exactly like the human kidneys.
- Celery, Bok Choy, Rhubarb and more look just like bones. These foods specifically target bone strength. Bones are 23% sodium and these foods are 23% sodium. If you don't have enough sodium in your diet the body pulls it from the bones, making them weak. These foods replenish the skeletal needs of the body.
- Eggplant, Avocadoes and Pears target the health and function of the womb and cervix of the female - they look just like these organs. Today's research shows that when a woman eats 1 avocado a week, it balances hormones, sheds unwanted birth weight and prevents cervical cancers. And how profound is this? .... It takes exactly 9 months to grow an avocado from blossom to ripened fruit. There are over 14,000 photolytic chemical constituents of nutrition in each one of these foods (modern science has only studied and named about 141 of them).
- Figs are full of seeds and hang in twos when they grow. Figs increase the motility of male sperm and increase the numbers of Sperm as well to overcome male sterility.
- Sweet Potatoes look like the pancreas and actually balance the glycemic index of diabetics.
- Olives assist the health and function of the ovaries
- Grapefruits, Oranges, and other Citrus fruits look just like the mammary glands of the female and actually assist the health of the breasts and the movement of lymph in and out of the breasts.
- Onions look like body cells. Today's research shows that onions help clear waste materials from all of the body cells They even produce tears which wash the epithelial layers of the eyes.
Cedar Vicki from British Columbia, Canada.Questions & Answers
The other day I was talking with one of our members Mike from Ct. and we
were comparing notes on what different foods are called in each area.
I thought it would be fun to ask the rest of the members what they
call this one particular sandwhich from all around the globe.
He says Meatball Subs there are called Grindermeatball sandwiches.
I know them as meatball subs here in Maryland.
Also since the meatballs are ground up I call them sloppy joes?
what do you call them there in your neck of the woods?
Another one after talking to Jan in Australia, is Bbq sandwiches.
She has never heard of such a thing for a main meat dish.
Anyone want to Add their names?
hugs, Jami from Maryland.
Ellen from Georgia, USA says: golly I didn't know people hadn't heard of bar b que sandwiches. since I am also in the states I call them meatball subs too. My daughter fixes manwich for her family. I used to when the kids were little, but the spices bother us now. Oh the joys of getting old.
We call them meatball grinders here in Ma. Are you saying that the meatballs in the subs are ground up? Our meatballs are whole. I made Sloppy Joes last week. I fry hamburg & onions scrambled up and add corn. I buy Manwich sauce and add that and we put it on hamburg rolls. My husband loves it. It's a quick easy meal when I'm feeling lazy.
Cindy from Phillipston, MAThere is a franchise here that sells subs, they are bread rolls of varying lengths, say a foot long with various fillings in them such as salad vegetables and different meats. I haven't bought one myself. Apart from that I haven't heard of subs. No I have never heard of sandwiches in any main meal dish. Aussies make a sandwich by laying out 2 pieces of bread, spreading with butter or margarine then laying a filling on, such as salad and chicken, egg and lettuce or ham, tomato and cheese, laying the other piece of bread on top and cutting into 2 diagonally to pack one's lunch or 4 to serve in little triangles along with cakes and biscuits at morning or afternoon tea. Love
Aussie JanThere has been a tremendous response, most interesting ones too. I have tried to list as many as space permits in our Global Express -- to see all of them please check out the google board!
Charla's
Prayer Requests
WWWCOF Members
As you know Edith from Uganda is in the rainy season and she fell down in the middle of the road which was full of water. She says she will be fine.
Ellen from Georgia, USA has a non treatable lung disease. We all know There is no such word as NO in the abilities of our "GREAT PHYSICIAN" Please lift Ellen in prayer for God to send the knowledge to treat her and to surround her with His Healing Angels.
Bea from the Catskills' surgery spot has opened up again. She has been in & out of the hospital and seeking help for this hip surgery for over a year now. Bea will be going to a Plastic surgeon soon. PLease keep Bea in prayer for God's guidance in seeking a doctor and for God to surround Bea with His Angels of healing and comfort.
Emma from Maryland, USA is asking for prayer for her daughter Vicki and Vicki's son. Vicki is divorced and her husband signed all custody to Vicki and now he is trying to get the son through court to hurt Vicki. Her son is so upset as well as Vicki and Emma.
Please pray God will guide the decision of the court and whomever else is involved that Vicki will keep her son. Lord we ask you to Please surround Vicki and her son with Your Protective Angels and Protect them as they go through this. May You comfort Vicki and may she put her faith in You Lord. We ask Your Will Be Done.
In Jesus Name
Jan 11 update - I talked to Tonya today. We're going to see her tomorrow night. They will be probably keeping her for at least 7 days. There are some family sessions that they want me & Courtney to come to. Will know more tomorrow night. Hugs,
Billie, from Ridgely, TN USA.
Irv Wall from Ontario, Canada - please pray for Irv. He is a long time member of our group and he is having to go through some tests. It could be serious. Let's pray God will make these tests naegative and heal Irv.
Maxine, from Ontario, Canada - Maxine had quite a hard time with her surgery. She had a reaction to the anesthetic and she ended with respirator for 2 days in I.C.U. George was alone at the hospital and had quite a scare. PRAISE GOD He gave her back to us. Maxine is doing well now and is healing. Thank You Jesus!
Maxine's daughter Mary-Jo sent in this message.
"Well I just got home from seeing Paul (her husband) and today was a good day, last night when I called they said his heart was doing funny things but today again he is stable, thank you Lord. The jaundice is down, they said his kidneys, liver and lungs were functioning a bit better, he was reacting to us talking although still in a medically induced sleep, the respirator is still on but at a lower rate than 2 days ago. I will sleep better tonight, and hope the climb is continually up. Thanks for all the prayer warriors out there who are praying for Paul and my family. Tomorrow I will do some things around here that need to be done."
Please keep Paul and Mary Jo in constant prayer as they both are very sick and God is the ONLY healing they have. May both know the Lord and trust in Him.
Christine from Greenwood, Delaware, USA - We are both out of work and God is providing EVERYTHING we need. Not what we want, but need, and that is important!! He is good to us and I believe HE will see us through. I want Mike to have a job soon, but I have prayed for God to give him the job that HE wants him to have. That will make all the difference. Please pray for God to send that job to Mike soon.
An update from
Cindy from Phillipston, MA on her husband, Vern. - Praise God! Vern ( Cindy's husband) Vern is doing very well! He has some balance problems, but only slight. He is going to therapy to help improve this. It's mostly when he turns quickly or bends down and stands back up too fast. He has had some headaches, but that too seems to be improving. Cindy's hip is doing great..... (had hip surgery) I'm using my cane and around the house I don't even use that too much. I have absolutely no pain in the hip at all. It's so wonderful to not have that constant stabbing pain! Cindy also asks for prayer for her family for God to surround them with His angels of Guidance.
Peachy Marie and Uncle G, aka Ma & Pa
- Please keep Aunt Peachy & Uncle "G" in prayer as they will be traveling back here to the "SUNSHINE STATE" this next week.
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 - Please keep Jonna in prayer for strength and for her to continue to allow God to guide her in every decision.
Daphne from Argentina -
Prayer for Global Healing and let's also keep the wwwcof reunion in prayer with Daphne even though it is a year away.
Family and Friends of WWWCOF Members
Kim: Prayer request please. My daughter in law Libby has a friend from high school in much need of prayer. Let's help her as God's workers. Her name is Kim and she is in her second pregnancy. She has what's called: "Hyperemesis Gravidarum" Please pray that God heals this condition and the baby and Kim will be fine. Also please lift Jason, Kim's husband, up for faith and strength.
Florida Marie's friend Joyce - Just talked to Joyce, a friend of mine from Canada. She is needing prayers very badly. Joyce is bleeding from both ends and is waiting on tests. Of course waiting on the tests is always the worse. Please pray that Joyce knows the Lord, That The doctors find out the problem and Please give them the knowledge to give her treatment. That God send His healing Angels to surround her.
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) PRAISE GOD! 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. SUSAN IS ON A NEW MEDICINE AND SHE IS ABLE TO WRITE WITH HER HAND NOW!! Please keep the prayers going.
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. Sue is also in pain from her surgery in her shoulders please keep her in prayer.
Sue Romans: Sue is also in pain from her surgery in her shoulders please keep her in prayer.
Scott Skeel: Scott is having some hard times right now and needs prayer for making decisions. He feels alone and lost. Please keep him in prayer for his needs.
Muire : ( 28 year old Mommy with brain cancer) will be going to North Carolina for treatment at Duke University on Tuesday. I just learned that this weekend, so that's a good and hopeful sign. Please keep Murie in pray for God's Miracle.
PLEASE REMEMBER TO PRAY FOR THOSE IN THE MILITARY AND THEIR FAMILIES
- Jamie Landon: (Fl Maries Grand Daughter) Home from Iraq
- Geoffery Landon: (Fl Maries Grandson) Home from Iraq
- Robert Fleming: (Peachy Marie's Grandson.) In Iraq
- Stephen Johnson: (Christine Mills Pastors Son) In Iraq
- Robin Smith: (Christine Mills requests) In Iraq
UNSPOKEN Requests:Joyce, Jeff, Steve, Libby, Bobby, Alan & Katie,
Please email Charla, from Florida, USA with any Praises, Requests and/or UPDATES Thank you.
Member of the Month Nominations
Last Chance to get your nominations in
February's Member of the Month nominations close January 31st so be sure to cast your ballot here today! Do be sure to add your comments as to why you have selected the member you are nominating.
REUNION ARGENTINA OCTOBER 2008
MAR DEL PLATA Reunion Headquarters city
Mar del Plata, 134 years old as a city, is one of Argentina's most important tourist cities, on the Atlantic coast some 250 miles, (400 KM) south of Buenos Aires. It has a stable population of around 700,000 people with easily an additional million in the summer months of December, January, February. It has a coast line of some 25 miles (40 KM) stretching from a huge park in the north to the light house in the south, with sandy beaches, stretches of rocks where people fish from, casinos, museums of all types, sloping parks, the Naval Base (submarines), the fishing port with its deep-sea and off-shore fishing trawlers and sea lion colony, golf courses, and a sea-world theme park. Along the coast there are stands where crafters display and sell their wares, and shops where just about everything is sold. Often street artists set up their stands, and paint portraits, landscapes etc or set up speakers and have a sing-along or invite the public to dance, at no other cost than pass-the-hat. Within the city, we have a pedestrian shopping road and other roads dedicated to shops, we have universities, theatres, a Cathedral and of course all the main religion�s worshipping places, two local TV channels and two local newspapers. Members in this city are doing their best to find the best offers in accommodation for our visitors. There is an airport, domestic flights only, a long distance bus station and a railway station (plans are in the distant future to unite both of these, and also to add a faster train system- the railway not being the most popular form of transport. Again, I�ll be happy to answer any questions you might have, having adopted this city as my home 33 years ago.
Daphne from Argentina
To hold a Reunion we need people, this is the only thing we are lacking. The organization is already well underway as shown in our 2008 Reunion Website; now we need the cooporation and participation of members everywhere. Look forward to seeing many of you here.
EXPLORING ARGENTINA with views to Reunion 2008
Planet Kryzys
Hyacinth Macaw
At a request from Sharon, here is a note on the Hyacinth Macaw.
Native to the forests of central South America, the Hyacinth Macaw (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus) is the largest macaw and the largest flying parrot species in the world, though the flightless Kakapo of New Zealand can outweigh it at up to 3.5kg. In terms of length it is larger than any other species of parrot. Their unique size, color, and markings make the all-blue Hyacinth Macaw one of the most recognized species of macaw. Their popularity as pets has taken a heavy toll on their population in the wild. Birds in captivity fetch a price of around $9,000-$12,000 US.
These birds grow to a total length of 100 cm and weigh 1.4-1.7 kg. The wingspan is 130-150 cm. Having the strongest beaks of all birds they can easily disassemble the bars of a welded wrought iron cage in a short time. This powerful beak is ideal for its favorite foods, which include hard nuts and seeds that would otherwise be inaccessible. Their strong beaks are even able to crack coconuts and macadamia nuts. In addition, they eat fruits and other vegetable matter. Pine nuts are also one of the most popular foods. There are eight species of palm that are central to their diet. They are generally messy eaters.
The Hyacinth Macaw has a solid blue body of feathers, similar to the color of indigo. It has a solid black beak with bright yellow along the sides of the lower part of the beak and circling its solid dark eyes. Unlike other species of macaw, it does not have a white patch of featherless skin around the eye. The female and male are nearly indistinguishable, although the female is typically a bit more slender.
Reproduction
These birds nest in existing holes in trees. The clutch size is one or two eggs, although usually only one fledgling survives as the second egg hatches several days after the first, and the smaller fledgling cannot compete with the first born for food. Juveniles stay with their parents until they are six months old. They are mature and begin breeding at seven years of age.
Distribution and habitat
The Hyacinth Macaw survives today in three known distinct populations in South America southern Brazil, eastern Bolivia and northeastern Paraguay It is possible that smaller, fragmented populations occur in other areas of its range. Its habitat includes riverside tropical rain forests and palm swamps.
Conservation
The Hyacinth Macaw is considered an endangered species due to over collection for the cage bird trade and by the use of their feathers by the Kayapo Indians of Gorotire in southern Brazil. These Indians use the feathers to make headdresses and other baubles for the tourist trade. Also, like many other animals, their habitat is being reduced by development. Annual grass fires set by gauchos can destroy nest trees.
Our Furry Friends in the Spotlight
"Shadow"
I hope you all do not mind but this weeks edition I would like to blow my own horn. As I know we have several new members here now and maybe even some of the older ones do not know the story of my Shadow.
I saw this teeny little Black thing on the floor at my Girlfriend's son's house. He had 3 small children and they were all tormenting the heck out of this poor little creature. She was no bigger than the palm of my hand. I quickly grabbed her up from their clutches and fell madly in love with her.
At that time Frank had no intention of giving her up. But after 3 weeks of begging him, and being totally upset that he could not see the kids were too young to have such a small dog around them. He caved and Gave her to me.
Of course I was working Monday through Friday 24/7 and had no idea what I was to do with her . So I took a chance and brought her to work with me that Monday morning. I naturally had to go to the office and get approval to have her with me. But, I also knew if I just asked without having her seeen the answer would have been no! Good logic. My Executive Director took one look at her, as I knew she would and also fell in love with her. We do allow cats and dogs in the homes if they are compatible with the residents and have their shots etc. So of course Shadow had to now go to the house and get approval there. Well my one fellow John was actually afraid of any dog. And I wasn't sure how he would be about her there. Well, I guess cause she was so small and took to him immediately he was not afraid. My other fellow loved all animals so I knew he would be fine. I was just afraid he would be too rough on her. But again, no problem he was very gentle, and Shadow took to him as well. My lady actually prefers cats but she liked her too. So, Shadow passed the test. Little did I know at that point in time that she was going to be earning her keep. She would be very protective of the residents. And never tried to bite anyone of them. Even when Charlie get alittle rough with her or pinches her belly she will growl and warn him, maybe grab his hand but will not bite.
She knows when its time to go to work come Monday morning too. She will be right at my side looking at me as if saying come on mom, lets go. Soon as I say ready to go see the gang? She will run around in circles til I put her lease on her to go out the door. Once at the house usually the gang is at their day placements and she is lost. But she also knows the time each gets home, cause once it hits 3 o'clock she is right at the door waiting.
She has helped me with calming Charlie down when he is in one of his agitated moods. She occupies their time keeping them busy playing with her. There are even days when Charlie is quite in a mischievious mood and all I have to say is where is Shadow, and he will calm right down and go looking for her. Seems shadow knows too cause she is more playful with him then as well.
She has her favorite though. John. The one who was so afraid of any dogs. And now they are best buddies. She knows how to wrap herself right around him too when she wants a treat. He always gives her one lol She is a spoiled little girl, but what dog do you know who goes to work every day and loves it????? I know if anything happened to her, the gang would be devastated as I would be.
That's my story about my Best friend and partner at work. Remember to hug your Pet today. For they give more love back than you can ever imagine.
for they give you all of theirs!
Jami from Maryland.
Just for Fun
MORE THINGS WE CAN LEARN FROM OUR DOGS submitted by 
Ruth from Michigan, USA
- When family members come home, drop what you're doing and run to greet them.
- Let others know when they have invaded your territory.
- Take naps; stretch before rising.
- Run, romp, and play daily
- Eat with gusto and concentration.
- Be loyal.
- Never pretend to be something you're not.
- If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.
- When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close and nuzzle him or her gently.
- Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
- When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
- No matter how often you're scolded, never pout. Run right back and make friends.
- Delight in the simple joys of a long walk.
ANSWERS FROM A ...
- GOLDEN RETRIEVER: "The sun is shining, the day is young, we've got our whole lives ahead of us, and you're inside worrying about a stupid burned-out bulb?"
- BORDER COLLIE: "Just one and I'll replace any wiring that's not up to code at the same time."
- DACHSHUND: "I can't reach the stupid lamp!"
- TOY POODLE: "I'll just blow in the Border Collie's ear and he'll do it. Bye the time he finishes rewiring the house, my nails will be dry."
- ROTTWEILER: "Go ahead! Make me!"
- SHIH TZU: "Puh-leeze, dah-ling. Let the servants do it."
- LAB: "Oh, me, me!!! Pleeeeze let me change the light bulb! Can I? Can I? Huh? Huh? Can I?"
- MALAMUTE: "Let the Border Collie do it. You can feed me while he's busy."
- COCKER SPANIEL: "Why change it? I can still wet on the carpet in the dark."
- DOBERMAN PINSCHER: "While it's dark, I'm going to sleep on the couch."
- MASTIFF: "Mastiffs are NOT afraid of the dark!"
- HOUND: "Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z Z."
- CHIHUAHUA: "Yo quiero, Taco Bulb."
- POINTER: "I see it, there it is, right there."
- GREYHOUND: "It isn't moving. Who cares?"
- AUSTRALIAN SHEPHERD: "Put all the light bulbs in a little circle."
- OLD ENGLISH SHEEPDOG: "Light bulb? Light bulb? That thing I just ate was a light bulb?"
- JAPANESE AKITA: "Darn light bulb! Come over here, Murphy. I'll hold you up and you can change it."
- SHETLAND SHEEPDOG: "You guys can all go home now. We did it."
Cedar Vicki from British Columbia, Canada sends us this pretty cool Think Test .Common Expressions - Origin & Meaning
Ups-a-daisy
Meaning - An exclamation made when encouraging a child to get up after a fall or when lifting a child into the air.
Origin - It is difficult to choose which of the numerous variants of the expression to use as the heading of this piece. As with many words that are said to small children, it is more often a spoken term than one that appears in print and this has led to much inconsistency about how it is spelled. In fact, I can't think of a single term that appears in so many different spellings. For example: Upsidaisy, Upsa daesy, Upsy-daisy, Oops-a-daisy, Oopsy-daisy and Hoops-a-daisy
The form in which it is now most commonly spoken and spelled is 'oops-a-daisy'. The first known printed record of any form of the term is in Clough Robinson's The dialect of Leeds and its neighbourhood, 1862:
Upsa daesy! a common ejaculation when a child, in play, is assisted in a spring-leap from the ground.
This was preceded by 'up-a-daisy', which has its own variations of spelling - 'up-a-dazy', 'up-a-daisey', etc. Jonathan Swift used this in his collection of letters, which was published in 1711 as The Journal to Stella:
Come stand away, let me rise... Is there a good fire? - So - up a-dazy.
The earlier dialect term 'upaday', which has the same meaning, appears to be the source. The 'daisy' part is a fanciful extension of 'day', perhaps alluding to the child being on the ground amongst the daisies. Of course, the name daisy itself derives from 'day' - the flower, which closes at night and exposes its yellow centre in sunlight, was thought of as the day's eye.
Interestingly, the daisy is the "official flower" of the WWWCOF.
Like many in the UK, I still use the phrase frequently.
submitted by 
London 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.
FEATURED SITES
Lena, from Ontario, Canada invites us to click on the following link, then just click on the ink bottles and watch what happens! This is really pretty neat.
Flutter By.
Computers 101
Photo Editing
Hey folks,
ever thought of doing some basic photo editing? Watch this WelshGoG aka Owen from Wales
Pursuit of Excellence Programme
Have you started with your Pursuit of Excellence Programme?
Crafts
Lena, from Ontario, Canada says that these Winter Craft ideas noting that some looks like something to do with the children, or grandchildren.
Time to send in your Valentine's Day Craft ideas.
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, 
Sharon from Paradise Island, aka Vancouver Island, BC, Canada and I will be happy to add them to our ever growing collection.
Have you started playing our Trivia Quiz Game yet which is hosted by Aussie Jeanette. Go on try it ... it is fun!
Remember to take a moment to visit the
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! You must be a member of the Circle of Friends in order to join our google board.
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days until Reunion 2008!
TELEVISION SHOW POLL
Getting very close to the end of this week's issue so I had best publish the results of the televion show poll. Remember? The question was "What are your top five favourite television shows and why do you prefer these over all the other shows on TV?". Quite a variety in the answers and it is so rewarding to realize that there really are a lot of "good" entertainment and learning on the "tube".
Mike from Connecticut, USA's favourites are:
- Life - its a good quirky show on its own but its my favorite #1 show because my son is the post production coordinator.
- CSI - I enjoy the cast on this show and the Las Vegas locale is different from most shows.
- Dancing With The Stars - I guess that is surprising for a guy but I like to see the celebs out of their element. I was surprised that one of the pros, Tony Dovolani, lives here in town. However, my favorite dancer is Edyta Sliwinska, remember I'm a guy. :) I will admit we've seen the tour show twice too.
- Criminal Minds - its scary to think there are really people like that in this world.
- House - doctor with an attitude.
Jeanette from NJ, USA's favourites are:
- House, because he is so good-looking and a great actor (Hugh Luarie)
- Masterpiece Theatre because they are so classic and great acting
- Law and Order reruns with Jerry Orbach because he is the quintessential New Yorker
- 60 Minutes because you can learn something
- Two and A Half Men because the writing is great and its really funny
Wanda from Thomasville, AL, USA's says Cops, Law & Order CI, Law & Order SVU, CSI-Miami, CSI ---- These shows are on all the time and I sort of got addicted to them. They are not really my favorite so to speak, I would lots rather watch Lost, Prison Break and 24 but they play them for a while and then take them off.Top 5 list from
Norma from Alberta, Canada who adds that some are educational. Some are funny. She just likes them.- 1. Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader
- 2. N.C.I.S.
- 3. Bones
- 4. Animal Cops - Animal Cops is on the Animal Channel. It's about American SPCA's and how they find abused animals and what happens to them.
- 5. Don't Forget the Lyrics
Here are
Dabthoms, aka David from Essex, England's favourites in no particular order.- Central China TV Channel 9, especially in the evening, as watching prepares me for sleep!
- Any of Sky TV Channels 401-415 all sports channels usually.
- Sky TV Channels 273, 274 real estate programmes in Australia and New Zealand.
- Sky TV Discovery Channel 250 - Canadian made programme - Holmes on Homes.
- Channel 4 news at 7.00pm
London Chrissie says her fav shows.- Big Brother
- X Factor
- American Idol
- Doctors (uk show)
- Home and Away (Auz show)
Charla, from Florida, USA says her favourites are:- 1.) Doctor House: Because he is sooo handsome! For real, I love to see the medical issues and healings. I Love anything medical.
- 2.) Andy Griffith: Because it is innocent and funny.
- 3.) Nancy Grace: I Love how she handles people and she won't back down. Also learn a lot.
- 4.) Intervention: Because it shows true episodes of families and an addictive family member and what really happens.
- 5.) Dirty Jobs: It makes me feel so good to see what people will go through to provide for their family and also what we so much take for granted wouldn't be here without the guy doing the DIRTY JOB.
Christine from Greenwood, Delaware, USA faves are: CSI Los Vegas; CSI Miami; CSI New York; Numbers and NCIS and she says she likes all of these because she is interested in how they solve the cases. Of course she just loves Grissom and the
guy on Numbers is a hunk. How's that for a 62 year old grandma!!! Jami from Maryland's favourites are:- Ugly Betty**
- Greys Anatomy**
- Food network station**
- Hgtv. Home **
- Extreme Home edition**
Dottie from Maryland, USA says these are her all time fave shows as she loves mystery and suspence.- 1. CSI - I adore William Peterson
- 2. CSI New York
- 3. CSI Miami
- 4. NCIS
- 5. Survivor
Frances from Tennessee says TV has gotten so bad lately that I don't really watch much network TV. I watch mostly reruns of old shows, such as:
- ANDY GRIFFIN
- MASH
- LITTLE HOUSE ON THE PRAIRIE
- DESIGNING WOMEN
- I LOVE LUCY
my much older brother, Wayne and his lovely wife Jenny from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada tell us that they enjoy:
Jenny's:
- 1) All the C.S.I.'s (Vegas, New York & Miami) - I'm a "Crime" buff. These shows are challenging "who dunnits" and I learn about new crime solving technology
- 2) JEOPARDY- it makes me "exercise" my brain, I can play along and learn things on a variety of topics
- 3) TRAVEL CHANNEL- it takes me to & teaches me about places I'll probably NEVER visit unless I win the lottery
- 4) DISCOVERY CHANNEL-it's real and covers a wide variety of educational stuff
- 5) THE FOOD NETWORK- it helps with the age old question: "What to make for supper that's different?"
- 1) ANY NEWS CHANNEL- any time of the day, any day of the week
- 2) HISTORY CHANNEL - a lot of military history
- 3) DISCOVERY CHANNEL - he's really interested in what makes things "tick"
- 4) NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC - it's real life & a variety of educational and extremely interesting topics
- 5) ANIMAL PLANET - let's you explore other species of life
Aussie Jan says that while she does not watch much TV, these are the shows she prefers:- *News
- *Morning current affair shows
- *Gardening Shows
- *Antique Roadshow.
- *Some documentaries.
Florida Marie says that she likes the CSI shows and Forensic Files because it's amazing how they solve them. Ellen from Georgia, USA that her favorite shows are:- American Idol because I like the music
- Bones because I read Kathy Reich's books
- House because he is crazy
- Women's Murder Club because I have read the books
- Dancing With The Stars because I am amazed at how good some of them do.
I don't watch a lot of TV. I do watch the soaps sometime. I watch The Young & the Restless, As the World Turns., The Guiding Light & Hallmark Movies & the News.
Linda, from Tallassee, ALMy Top five favorite shows are:
- 1. Gray's Anatomy - I think cause I worked in medicine for years and have always loved anything on that line. Besides, I just love Dr. McDreamy!
- 2. ER - I've watched it since it started. I love the action. I still watch the reruns with all the old cast on in the daytime. I absolutely love George Clooney! He's such a Cutie!
- 3. Criminal Minds - It can be creepy, but it's based on real crimes, and I find it fasinating how they profile these people.
- 4. The Unit - I like these guys. Their tough, and they get right in there and do the job!
- 5. All the CSI's. Although the original CSI conflicts with my Gray's Anatomy, so I have to watch whichever one looks best that night and catch the reruns later.
I also watch The Carol Duval Show, (She does crafts on Home & Garden TV.) Ellen, Martha Stewart, & The View some during the day in the winter when I'm stuck in the house.
I think this is a little more than you wanted, but I just have such a hard time making decisions! (Or keeping my stories short!) Cindy from Phillipston, MA
Sharon from Paradise Island, aka Vancouver Island, BC, Canada says that she primarily watches "educational" tv such as the news, History Channel and Discovery Channel but also really enjoys all the crime shows (CSI, Law & Order, Bones, Womens Murder Club, Stark, etc. and my particular favourite is Criminal Minds), the Reality Shows such as American and Canadian Idol and the dance competion shows. I must admit I do like to watch Deal or No Deal and Antique Road Show also. Dialogue in the Criminal Minds show often includes the word "Unsub". Ever wondered about that word? Well it is an acronym standing for "unknown subject" of an investigation.So the next time you sit down to watch a favourite show think of who might also be watching it in their corner of the globe. You might want to email them and see what they thought of an episode or maybe if you do not recognize any of the favourite shows listed above you might want to contact that member for more information on it.
Who do you think this week's mystery member is?
- My middle name is Ann.
- I do not smoke anymore. Effective July 1, 2005 my hubby and I quit a 40+ years, 2 pack per day habit.
- My eyes are green.
- I have two sisters and 1 brother all younger than me.
- My favourite thing to do is travelling.
- My favourite colour is blue.
- My favourite type of music is Good Old Rock 'n Roll.
- I am outgoing.
- I follow the rules.
- My special talents are organization.
- I have four children.
- I drive a 2000 Chev Cavalier.
- I am old enough to know better, but young enough to do it again! Let's just say 50+.
- My favourite food lobster, but if you're talking about food I can afford, then Turkey rules.
- If you and I were stranded on a deserted island; I would bring a flint to make fire. According to Jeff Probst of "Survivor" with flint you have fire, and fire represents life.
I hope you have enjoyed this week's edition of Global Express which I would like to close with The Power of One sent in to us from Linda, from Tallassee, AL
One song can spark a moment,
One flower can wake the dream.
One tree can start a forest,
One bird can herald spring.
One smile begins a friendship,
One handclasp lifts a soul.
One star can guide a ship at sea,
One word can frame the goal.
One vote can change a nation,
One sunbeam lights a room.
One candle wipes out darkness,
One laugh will conquer gloom.
One step must start each journey,
One word must start each prayer.
One hope will raise our spirits,
One touch can show you care.
One voice can speak with wisdom,
One heart can know what is true.
One life can make the difference,
