ORLD
IRCLE
OF 
RIENDS
elcome
to 
lobal 
xpressMarch 14th Issue
Hello! Welcome to the second issue for March, 2008!
days until Reunion 2008!
Bragging Rights
Miss Tallassee
Brittany Davislst Alternate
Linda, from Tallassee, AL, USA
who would love you to check out her Slideshow for more pictures of her lovely grand-daughter, Brittany.
days to vote for April's Global Citizen!
Do you think one of our members should be the April Global Citizen. Please email me, 
Sharon from Paradise Island, aka Vancouver Island, BC, Canada by March 31st, 2008 and don't forget to add your comments as to why you have selected this particular member.
Don't forget to check the Birthday Calendar to see when members are celebrating their special days.
Amongst so many other celebrations March is also International Crafts Month:
- March 18 -
Jenny from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada's Birthday
- March 21 - Andrea from Cranbrook, B.C. Canada's Birthday
- March 27 - TaJuan from Alabama's Birthday
- April 2 - Linda, from Tallassee, AL, USA's birthday
- April 3 - my much older brother,
Wayne and his lovely wife Jenny from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada's Anniversary
- April 11 - my lovely daughter,
Kendra from Nanaimo, BC, Canada's Birthday
- April 18 -
Linda from China's birthday (and our 100th member)
- April 19 - Barb from Rockford, Illinois' birthday
- April 23 - Georgene Indiana, USA's birthday
- April 28 - Bigsis Pat from Ontario, Canada's hubby, Darryl's birthday
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.
Special Days in March
March is Community Social Services Awareness Month
Bigsis Pat from Ontario, Canada reminds us to be sure to check out our March Trivia site
- March 16 - Palm Sunday
- March 17 - St. Patrick's Day
- March 21 - Good Friday
- March 21 - International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
- March 23 - Easter Sunday
- March 23, 2001 - Introduction of the World Wide Web Circle of Friends
- March 24 - Easter Monday
Special Days in April include:
- April 1 - April Fool's Day
- April 1 - 7 - 1-7 Library Week
- April 2 - International Children's Book Day
- April 6 - Tartan Day - Tartan Day was pioneered in Canada but gained renewed momentum in the United States following resolutions in Congress and Senate recognizing the day of the signing of the 1320 Declaration of Arbroath 6 April - as a day to celebrate Scotland.
- April 6 - Juno Awards - Canadian equivalent of the (US) Grammy awards
- April 7 - World Health Day
- April 8 - Astronomy Day
- April 16 -
Peachy Marie and Uncle G, aka Ma & Pa heading home to Canada and getting ready for camping season!
- April 18 - Pet Owner's Day
- April 20 - Passover - Passover is one of the most important religious festivals in the Jewish calendar. Jews celebrate the Feast of Passover (Pesach in Hebrew) to commemorate the liberation of the Children of Israel who were led out of Egypt by Moses. Jews have celebrated Passover since about 1300 BC, following the rules laid down by God in Exodus 13.
- April 19 - Car Free Day
- April 20 - Volunteer Recognition Day
- April 22 - Earth Day
- April 23 - St. George's Day - England's National Day. St. George is the patron saint of England.
- April 24 - Arbor Day
- April 25 - Anzac Day (Australia / New Zealand) marks the anniversary of the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces during the First World War. ANZAC stands for Australian and New Zealand Army Corps.
Diavik Diamond Mine, Canada - one very amazing hole in the ground! Did you know Canada was a Diamond producing nation?
This incredible mine can be found 300km northeast of Yellowknife in Canada. The mine is so huge and the area so remote that it even has its own airport with a runway large enough to accomodate a Boeing 737.
It also looks equally as cool when the surrounding water is frozen.
Lena, from Ontario, Canada
Are you interested in reading more about Canada? The most comprehensive and authoritative source on all things Canadian can be found on The Canadian Encyclopedia site.
Sharon from Paradise Island, aka Vancouver Island, BC, Canada
Once upon a time long, long ago in a faraway land, all the best stories start like that and this is a good one. Alright Scotland isn't that far away but it's my story and I'm sticking to it.
No doubt you have all seen these pop-up ads for finding old school friends. Well one day I was playing around on the computer when one of them flashed on the screen. Annoying as there are it got me thinking there might be something on those lines in Scotland. That started one of the most exciting adventures I've ever had. In the UK they have a site called Friends Reunited, it lists every school in Britain. Locating my high school was easy from there and there were lots of names, many I knew and some I'd never heard of. I was able to contact people from my Primary School and a couple neighbours where we lived. It was very exciting to talk to these people after all this time, thirty plus years.
I checked the site regularly for months looking for by best friend from High School, Mary Dodds but she never appeared. I was very disappointing; Mary was the one person I'd give anything to find again. We were so close and always had fun together but I emigrated to Canada in 1968 and we'd lost touch. We went to school not far from Ednburgh, Scotland.
A year or so later I got an e-mail from someone called Jackie whom I'd never heard of, I was about to delete it when for some unknown reason I felt compelled to read it. Usually I delete any messages from people I don't know but I swear something stopped me, so I opened it and started reading. This woman asked me if I was Irene, she gave my date of birth and asked if I remembered her Mum, Mary Dodds. The feelings that washed over me at that moment were extraordinary, a bit like life passing before my eyes, and I just sat staring at the screen and cried. Yes I just sat there and cried, every conceivable emotion washed over me as I sat there paralyzed for hours, but it was probably only a few minutes in reality. I felt like a chapter had ended and a door had opened wide.
Mary and I started e-mailing regularly and in January 2003 we were in Scotland for a visit Mary and I arranged for us to meet again. Truly it was magic, like we'd seen each other last week, all the years just slipped away and we were giggling teenagers again. Two years ago Mary and her husband Robert came here for 10 days, last year they arrived here and we went on a tour of Oregon, Yachats and Crater Lake and home via Mt. St. Helens. In June this year we are meeting in Las Vegas where we plan to visit the Grand Canyon. The four of us Mary, Robert, Dick and I are looking forward to meeting each year. All of this is thanks to the internet a one small e-mail.
Irene, aka Scotty, from Washington, USA
During the 1926 General Strike, a budding poet Idris Davies vowed to educate himself and leave behind the his life of toil as a miner in Rhymney.
This poem, published by Davies in his first book Gwalia Deserta in 1938, had been inspired by the hardship of the mining communities, and was written in a style similar to the nursery rhyme Oranges and Lemons.
In addition to Rhymney, the poem refers to the bells of Merthyr, Rhondda, Blaina, Caerphilly, Neath, Swansea, Newport, Cardiff and Wye.
The Bells of Rhymney - by Idris Davies
Oh What will you give me?
Say the sad bells of Rhymney
Is there hope for the future?
Say the brown bells of Merthyr
Who made the mine owner?
Say the black bells of Rhondda
And who killed the miner?
Say the grim bells of Blaina
Put the vandals in court
Say the bells of Newport
All would be well if, if, if, if
Say the green bells of Cardiff
Why so worried sisters? Why?
Sang the silver bells of Wye
And what will you give me?
Say the sad bells of Rhymney
Oh What will you give me?
Say the sad bells of Rhymney
Is there hope for the future?
Say the brown bells of Merthyr
Who made the mine owner?
Say the black bells of Rhondda
And who killed the miner?
Say the grim bells of Blaina.
In 1957, protest singer Pete Seeger wrote The Bells of Rhymney, one of his most famous songs which he first recorded live at New York's Carnegie Hall. In an interview held in 2006, 88 year old Mr. Seeger said; "I didn't really know much about Wales except there were a lot of good singers and a lot of good songs." When asked about the origins of the song he said;"I ran across a book by Dylan Thomas with a chapter called Welsh Poetry in the English language, and there were the words to The Bells of Rhymney." This Ballad about the hardships and dangers of mining in the Welsh valleys has not only been performed / recorded by many folk singers; but also by The Byrds, Diesel Park West, Judy Collins, Cher and The Alarm.
Mike Peters and Dave Sharp - The Bells of Rhymney
John Denver - "The Bells of Rhymney"
WelshGoG aka Owen from WalesPlease take a moment to visit Owen's Space
Australian Report
Short Weekend Break
We had a refreshing break. We were planning to go to the Church Camp in our motorhome, but the day before, George, our Minister, phoned to say 'no pets'. As Tilda is part of the family, Barry went down and got our money back, and we took a little trip around our local area. We didn't leave until Friday afternoon as I was involved in the World Day of Prayer in the morning.
On Friday night our campsite was a nice flat spot, only about 40kms from home, but it turned out to be oh so noisy, with the chatter of thousands of flying foxes. We didn't mind, we like any natural noises, and it was an unusual experience for us. The next morning we took some photos and they were still jabbering away even though the sun was well up. We drove on down to the seaside, to a dog friendly beach. We only paddled and took Tilda in, she doesn't like the water but she suffered it to please us. She has a slight skin allergy, that is being treated, and we thought the salt water would be helpful. I had heard on the radio earlier that the water temperature was 24.5 degrees celsius, but it still felt cool!. It is wonderful to see all the dogs running around on the beach with their owners, and some were delighting in retrieving thrown balls from the surf.
We continued on to to Byron Bay which is the most Eastern point of Australia and had a very generous serve of fish and chips there. It is a well known backpacker destination, and was crowded with young people. We walked up to the beach, even though it was quite hot, and sat under a tree, there were people lying in the sun. Later in the day we turned inland to a quiet grassy camp spot beside a river, and enjoyed a quiet evening there. There were fish jumping, and Barry threw in a line, but did not catch anything. We finished off an enormous mango, before cooking some dinner.
Sunday we drove on to a craft market. a very hippie affair that was. We've been there once before. We had some Dutch pancakes and I bought 5 shrubs, about a foot high for $2 each. When we got home I sorted out all the thing we'd forgotten, so that we are right for our week long trip over Easter.
PS: The grass was very wet, that's why Tilda looks so scruffy. Love to all,
Aussie Jan. Please visit my diary of events.
Welcome to 
Charla, from Florida, USA's World
Wednesday, March 6 - John & I had been away for the morning and as we got close to home we saw this dark large black cloud of Smoke over by where we live. Got a bit sick to my stomach trying to remember everything I know I turned off in the house. As we got to our place we went on down 2 more streets and there was a shed on fire. I saw a woman sitting on the pavement wobbling and got out of the car and ran to her. I caught her just as she was going out. She is the woman who lived in the trailer. Her husband is a carpenter. I told her to cough as I was shaking her. She came to and started coughing. I told someone to get me a cold wet rag and some drinking water. A woman could only find a clean sock of her child's and wet it. I proceeded to wipe her face as I was guiding her breathing and having her cough rolling her to her side. The fire dept FINALLY got there along with the E.M.T's. They asked if I was a nurse and I said no why they said most people don't know to make them cough. Anyway they put oxygen on her and took her to the hosp along with a guy who was right smack in the smoke trying to put the fire out with a garden hose. He had to be airlifted. After I looked around at everyone and talked to some, John & I came on home. After dinner I kept seeing all kinds of Sheriff cars and a couple more ambulances and a special truck from hazardous materials. I went out in the yard and walked out to talk to a few neighbors.
All the neighborhood was trying to say it was a meth Lab and had blown up. Now, there was paint thinner, paint and such the guy uses with his work. We did not believe it was a meth lab. I could be wrong but I was right there in it. Anyway I came home and then saw all the crime scene vehicles and all kinds of gov vehicles so I went outside and someone was saying it was a meth lab that channel 2 said so. I walked back up and right to the main Dude and said hey I inhaled this smoke helping someone else. Now if this was a meth lab I inhaled the toxin. He said Maam, it is not a meth lab as far as we have seen. When I came back and told the people talking they said they are lying to the public because they do not want a ruckus.
Last night on the 11:00 news it said it was NOT a meth lab,that some chemicals in the shed used for painting and carpentry work exploded. Why can't people seem to look for the good in anyone or help anyone. They were all too busy watching the place burn up instead of looking to see if everyone was ok! This young woman was so grateful that I came to be with her. She said no one would listen to or pay attention to her.
The Fire Department kept going to a small town called Paisley instead of here in Forest Hills. I was the 10th caller to 911 and she said we finally know where you're at they're In route. Can you believe that? Well that was my day. Welcome to "CHAR'S WORLD."
Bigsis Pat's Journal
Winter storm wallops Niagara
We got hit with two storms over the weekend, that consisted first of freezing rain and ice pellets followed by a fluffy covering that fell Saturday night. In total we got hit with 51 centimeters. We have a small parking lot behind the house where our apartment is located, and the landlord didn't come until Sunday afternoon to plough it out.
This caused a lot of problems for us. First of all, Darryl & I are sharing one pair of winter boots! I had a pair before, but they were left behind when I moved to BC, and were donated to charity. When I returned I just never got around to getting another pair.
Next the zipper in my winter coat busted, so Darryl has given me his.
This meant we had to take turns going out to dig the car out of the snow. Fortunately the young man who lives upstairs came out to give Darryl a hand. He helped shovel snow from around the car. Then pushed the car to help Darryl get the car unstuck.
Cabin fever
This winter seems like it has been very long, cold, and snow, snow, and more snow. And I, like others am suffering from cabin fever. Yes I go out twice a week to my volunteer job. And Darryl and I go grocery shopping. But other than that it seems like I'm chained in the house. I'm not a winter person, if I ever win the lottery I'm seriously thinking of moving somewhere warm. Then I'd proabably complain about the heat. Lol
Oh well, it's now March 10th; Daylight Saving time started this weekend, the sun actually shone all day yesterday, March Break for school kids has begun, can spring be far behind? We can only hope! Until next time, when maybe the weather will be better!
Please visit my Art by Patricia blog.
P.S. I have been busy adding to, and updating the WWWCOF Albums. Do please take a moment to check them out!
Loved the newsletter; a great job as usual.
Teamwork divides the task and multiplies the success.
Ellen from Georgia, USA
Great issue. It still amazes me you can do this week after week with such good material and enthusiasm.
Love 
Norma from Alberta, Canada
Wonderful newsletter once again my dear!
Jami from Maryland, USAThanks again Sharon for a most interesting tale about getting to the Dog Show. The Global Express, sure looks like a lot of work to put together. By the way I loved Owen's fishing story too (in his link), and I congratulated Moses, I would love to read more about his lifestyle. Love,
Aussie Jan. Again thank you for a great Global Sharon, and all the contributers. This group adds laughter to a bad day. It's always so nice to know someone cares. Here's to the most caring group of all time.
Irene, aka Scotty, from Washington, USAYep, it gets better all the time, thanks everyone who sent their interesting notes in, and Sharon for putting it all together!
Daphne from ArgentinaAbolutely fantastic job as usual! So much news and quite a variety of information. I'm really impressed. I like how you have included everyone's pictures with each item.
Bigsis Pat from Ontario, CanadaGreat newsletter once again. Hugs
Linda, from Tallassee, AL, USAI just read the latest newsletter and your adventure to the Cloverdale dog show. That was quite the "Incredible" journey. Glad you all made it to your destination and then back home safe and sound.
my much older brother, Wayne's lovely wife, Jenny from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
Happiness Keeps You
Happiness keeps you Sweet,
Trials keep you Strong,
Sorrows keep you Human,
Failures keep you Humble,
Success keeps you Glowing,
But only God keeps you Going!
- author unknown
Barb from Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada
- April which just happens to be National Poetry Month is coming up quickly. National Poetry Month was established by the Academy of American Poets as a month-long, national celebration of poetry. The concept was to increase the attention paid-by individuals and the media to the art of poetry, to living poets, to our poetic heritage, and to poetry books and magazines.
A lot of the WWWCOF members are wonderful poets and from time to time we are honoured to be given the opportunity to publish their poetry in Global Express so I thought why not hold a WWWCOF Poetry Contest.
The goals of this would be to:
- introduce to our members the pleasures of reading other member's poetry;
- to reread some favorite poems.
- to encourage us to try to write at least one poem;
- to attend poetry readings in our community;
- and to create a poetry book of our members' orginal poems.
Please submit your poems directly to me for posting - Sharon from Paradise Island, aka Vancouver Island, BC, Canada prior to the deadline for entries of April 30th, 2008. Voting will close on May 15th, 2008 and the contest winner will be announced in the May 16th issue of Global Express. Good luck to all!
Free Notebook by Bravenet.com
Other poems can be found on our Member Poetry Pages which I will be trying to transfer to the poetry journal but this task may not be completed by the deadline so do be sure to check out the poetry contained within these sites as well.
Connie from Edmonton, Alberta thinks you will like this even if you are not a Dolly Parton fan; it is very nice. Hello God
I get computer tips everyday & thought this was a good one to share in Global Express. I get a lot of e-mails with red x's.
Q: All I can ever see is that little red X. It's in my e-mail, in my Web browser, it's everywhere. Why can't I see any pictures? Please help me!
A: Several people have problems with the dreaded "red X," so you are definitely not alone when you ask this question. All of us here in the office get multiple e-mails about this subject every day, so even though we've run a tip on this before, here's a little more explanation that will hopefully help you determine the exact cause of your red X problem!
One of the main areas where people see the red X is in their e-mail. If you use Outlook Express and are having trouble seeing pictures in your e-mail, open it up and go to Tools, Options and choose the Security tab. Make sure the "Block images and other external content in HTML e-mail" box is unchecked. Now, if you are sending an e-mail and people have been complaining to you about the pictures not showing up, try this: open up OE and go to Tools, Options, Send tab. Under the Mail Sending Format section, make sure HTML is selected and then click on the HTML Settings button. From there, make sure the "Send pictures with messages" box is checked. That should solve all of your e-mail issues.
From the Desk of Linda, from Tallassee, AL, USA
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.
Australian Report
- Beefs & Bouquets
- Bigsis Pat Journal
- Bragging Rights
Canadian 'Eh
Welcome to Charla's World
Coffee & Chat
-
Computers 101
- Common Expressions
Crafts
- Did You Know
- Featured Sites
- Global Citizen Award
Health Matters
- Inspirational
- Planet Kryzys
Member of the Month
Messages from Members
- Nature's Water Features Photo Contest
Prayer Requests
- WWWCOF International Poetry Contest
- Pursuit of Excellence
Recipes
- Reunion 2008
Scotland - a far away land
- Tests & Quizzes
- Weather Updates
- Welshgog
International Weather Station
Storm Report - Storm Battering Southern England
- Daphne from Argentina's daughter sent her this photo of Portsmouth from the news, we are both still waiting to hear how my sisters fared.
London Chrissie say I am ok this end, was not that bad the storm in London, I still rode to work on my bike, just a strong wind, I think the worse was on the coast!!
- WelshGoG aka Owen from Wales - Hiya everyone,
Seems like the British Met office has been crying WOLF! again;
there's been a little structural damage and flooding but to date
nothing on the scale we had been led to expect. Thankfully, no-one
seems to have been badly injured by the severe weather, though we are
expecting another storm tonight and into tomorrow am - futher to the
North this time.
It's 8:00pm here at the moment, wind is about 30mph steady and gusting
to maybe 40-45mph, with ocasional squalls of rain; but forecasters
predict that the worst weather is expected in North Wales and the
Midlands/West of England.
You can pick up the latest news about the storm here and here. Pictures taken by the local lifeboats coxwain!! but in Pembrokshire, Tenby Harbour is calm and peaceful.
- Aussie Jan - Thanks for the weather map Owen, we've been thinking about one of Barry's
brothers who is making his way back from Portugal to UK and lives in the
Midlands. He is due home about now. We will have to text him.
Jan
Onto the weather in other corners of the globe:
March 8 - Do you believe that I'm up this late. LOL We've got 6 inches of snow. I just had Stephen go measure it. My poor dog, Bear, don't like the snow either. Sure hope it gets gone tomorrow. We're not going to Martha's, but hope to be able to go to Tonya's Sunday. Going to bed now.
March 9 - It's about gone on the streets and is gone on the roof tops. Just a little longer and the yard will be melted. The sun is shinning bright today.
Hugs, 
Billie, from Ridgely, TN USA.
March 7 - Well right now where I live we are knee deep in snow. Been snowing all day. I won't even temp to go out side now. Have a great day and stay warm.
Carol from New York, USAMarch 7 - We have been advised that we could have between 20-50 cm of snow overnight. lololol
Susan, aka Susie Q, from Smith Falls, Ontario
Thing are going pretty good. My Grandson, Stephen, has been here a little over 2 weeks. We've had a good time together. He's 19. He'll be starting a new job when they open in April. (A new "Pull-A-Part". It's a place that get wrecked cars and they take some parts off to sell.) That's how he was able to visit me. We're suppose to go to my friend's, Martha, house in Memphis tomorrow then on to Tonya's on Sunday. Mother has an appointment with the heart doctor on Monday. Sleet and snow are suppose to start around noon today here. If it's bad we won't be able to go. I just don't trust driving in snow or bad weather. I think Tonya & Courtney are doing a lot better. Time will tell. Love & Hugs,
Billie, from Ridgely, TN USA.
Easter is pretty early this year. I'm busy making Candy. I make the kids Easter Tray's. Baskets for the grand kids. Before dinner is served on Easter Sunday we have an Easter egg hunt. With the type of weather Kenmore, NY has this type of year the hunt is in doors. I hide plastic eggs with candy, money and little trinkets inside. One egg has $5.00 inside. Older child gets a certain color so the little one can find his own eggs and prizes. On our table sets a large candy tray with all home made chocolate candy and the center is a large Chocolate Easter Bunny. Chocolate flavors are milk, dark, orange, mint and peanut butter. Smaller trays ... are made up so each family gets to take a tray home. Dinner is serve about 4 pm. Ham, turkey, sweet potatoes and white potatoes. Veggy choice and home made Easter bread. Desert is a White Easter Bunny cake and all the candy they want. This has been going on ever since the kids were born. One of these days one of them will carry this on, age don't matter ... we all have fun. I have live Easter flowers all around the house. Smells are great and the flowers dress up every room. Friends are welcome to come later but for the DAY...it's only family. Happy Easter to everyone where ever you are.
Carol from New York, USA.
My wee brother was born on Good Friday, March 23rd. 1951. This is the closest his birthday has been since then. I found the article in Global about Easter very interesting.
Vera who is my eldest daughter and the mother of a 4 year old, (oops sorry sweetheart), 4 1/2 yr. princess. will be here for Easter. They'll arrive Thursday night and stay through Monday. So I'm thinking I should do some housework or something. What would you recommend? Irene, aka Scotty, from Washington, USA
Good morning, evening, afternoon where ever you are in the world, hi all, Yesterday I lost my work mate Manny (from the Ivory Coast), looks like his papers where not in order and he did not have his Leave to remain to stay in the UK, so my company had to get him off site, this all happen when I was at lunch when I came back he was gone and is not allowed to come back. Rob and I are very sad because I worked with him for over 3 years and he has worked in the High Commission for nearly 9 years, you never know what is around that corner, now Rob and I are very unsettled because we do not know who we are going to get to replace him. The worse is people keep asking where Manny is and at the moment we have to say he is on leave, but what do you tell them? Rob asks me to keep it quite and it's so difficult, I guess after a few weeks we will have to say he got another job. I am so glad it's the weekend again; I got a lot of house work to catch up on. I am up early this morning but once I have read my mail I am going back to bed, that is what I love about the week ends you can get up early and go back to bed when you feel like it. Hope you all have a lovely week end!!-
London ChrissieI guess I will be at home for Easter and since my adopted nephew will be living here then, will cook a Easter dinner. Sorry no special recipes in this holiday feast. Just Ham, Potato Salad, Jello mold and of course deviled eggs! If the ears of corn are good will have them for veggie. If not, just some fresh green beans. As for Easter memories? the only one comes to mind right now is the one when I was about 10 yrs old . We had gotten all new Easter outfits and shoes etc, and couldnt go anywhere to show them off cause that was a year we had a Whopper of a blizzard Easter .....in Chicago. What a disappointment!
Well after a week of waiting and worrying that I did not get the house, I am almost in final stage of it being mine! The owner will be calling me back tomorrow to work out our arrangements. But I got the go Just 5 mins ago that he will work things out for me to get it! WHEW! I also got my first lead on a job, resume will be in mail as of tomorrow morning, and we'll see where that leads me. I tell you what folks, this is very nerve racking! In my early days as a young woman, I would have just loaded the car, and taken off and hoped for the best. Not now! Have gotten a taste of total home security and financial security and will admit I am scared to death to make life changes now without it. So I am being very frugal as well as smarter than I was back then. However, I also believe in my heart that the Good Lord is watching over me right now too. He knows my heart and what I need for my senior years, I think he has paved the way for me to do this, so long as I am using my head and not jumping into it.
My boss at work says she hates to see me leave, but she can understand
why I want this and thinks it is a very wise decision. She is doing
everything in her power to help me. She even wrote my reusume for me.
I do not know of any other boss who would do that, do you? I have been
very blessed with working with a wonderful person here. I only hope my
new employer will be half as great as Susan.
I spent a good part of my weekend packing some stuff up, and getting
rid of stuff I absolutely dont need. Unfortunately, there was not much
I did not want to keep. After moving so many times in my life and
leaving so much behind I refuse to do the same this time. I am taking
it all with. Besides it costs too darn much to replace again.
My advice to anyone else out there wanting to make major life changes
at our ages, Be cautious, and very sure of what you want and where you
want to be. If you already have been blessed where you are to have
wonderful friends and family around you, Enjoy them. Because it is a
very lonely world out there if your not near them.
I will keep you all posted as more progress erupts. until then, Please
say an extra prayer for me to be able to get a good paying job in my
field very soon.
Thanks friends.
Love you, Jami from Maryland, USA
For our week long trip over Easter we are going up as far as Buderim on the Sunshine Coast, to visit Barry's brother out from the UK, then back to Brisbane area to visit my sister and also a couple of people I've met on the www, then my son and Emi on the Gold Coast, QLD, which is only a couple of hours from home. Love,
Aussie Jan. I'll be in home with my family, I hope for Easter. Regards
Valter from Brazil February 27 - I asked all my friends to put on pink (in support of the Bullying Stops Here campaign) and all walked around the school campus. Very smart. Many studens whom I did not know wondered what was happening and some of those went back to halls and changed to pink Oh God it was good!
Have been away for two weeks doing voluntary work with women in Act so have been serving the society deep in the village but have missed you a lot.
With respect to Easter I have lived with a foster family since I was 16 years old and I usually stay at home most of my time and that is why I love volunteering coz it draw me near to people like me to be strong but anyway God is good always to me.
Love 
Edith from Uganda
Linda, from Tallassee, AL, USA progress report with her personal Pursuit of Excellence programme.Yea!!!! I just weighed in. I have lost 18 lbs since Jan 1. I have lost 13 lbs since the Scale Back Alabama ten weeks ago. I feel really good. But I am not stopping here. I want to lose 11 more lbs. I started out out 174. Would like to weigh 145. I use to weigh a lot less when I was young. I weighed 125 most of my high school years and until I had my last child at 25. It was gain gain gain from that time on. I am determined to lose some of it. Have a good one. Hugs!
Sunset At The North Pole.
submitted by
Connie from Edmonton, Alberta
Be sure to check out all the wonderful craft ideas in the WWWCOF Craft Site and let us get this group active and crafting. Any ideas, please send them to Aussie Jan.
NATURE'S WATER FEATURES PHOTO CONTEST
We have received 35 pictures so far for the new Nature photo contest which started beginning of the year, and ends Sunday 16th March with voting starting Easter weekend. Sorry, but for reasons beyond my control, I cannot accept photos after Palm Sunday.This time the Theme is "Nature's Water Features" and it 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 Sunday, March 16.
- Voting starts Easter Weekend (March 21st - 24th).
- Results to be announced in the April 4th Global.
- This contest is open to all members of any age anywhere on Planet Earth
It has been suggested making a calender from the pictures, so I am investigating that, either as a prize for the overall winner, or to have available for Reunion 2008.
This is our third Nature photo contest. The first "Looking for beauty in nature in a world in crisis" was won by Deanna of Virginia. The second "Wildlife" was won by Ruth of Michigan. Who will be the winner of this third contest "Nature's Water Features"???? Daphne from Argentina
Recipe Corner
Dry Tilapia fish is one of the best dish here in Uganda Africa and it is good for both young and old; it helps the body to be strong and heathly and it give nutrition. It contains protains.
First boil it for thirty minutes, separate it from the soup and put the soup aside. Then get some oil and deep fry it; you will enjoy it Yum .. wow! The broth is given to the little children to keep them healthy and loving. Love
Edith from Uganda
KIWIFRUITOriginally known as the Chinese Gooseberry, the fruit was renamed for marketing reasons in the mid-20th century, first to melonette, and then to kiwifruit. The latter name was chosen for the indigenous New Zealand bird, kiwi which is one of the country's national symbols The second renaming was done in order to avoid a tariff on imported melons It is not uncommon outside of New Zealand and Australia for the fruit to be referred to simply as "kiwi". Today, kiwifruit is also a commercial crop in California.
Food value - Kiwifruit is a rich source of vitamin C. Its potassium content by weight is slightly less than that of a banana. It also contains vitamins A and E. The skin is a good source of flavanoid antioxidants.
Kiwifruit is often reported to have mild laxative effects, possibly because of the high level of dietary fibre
Raw kiwifruit is also rich in the protein-dissolving enzyme actinidin. Specifically, people allergic to latex, papayas or pineapples are likely to be allergic to kiwifruit also. Reactions include tingling and sore mouth; swelling of the lips, tongue and face; rash; vomiting and abdominal pain; and, in the most severe cases, breathing difficulties, wheezing and collapse. The most common symptoms are unpleasant itching and soreness of the mouth, with the most common severe symptom being wheezing. Severe symptoms are most likely to occur in young children.
This enzyme makes raw kiwifruit unsuitable for use in desserts containing milk or any other dairy products which are not going to be served within hours, because it soon begins to digest milk proteins. This applies to gelatin-based desserts as well, as the actinidin will dissolve the collagen proteins in gelatin very quickly, either liquifying the dessert, or preventing it from solidifying. However, it is suggested that cooking the fruit for a few minutes before adding it to the gelatin will overcome this effect. Sliced kiwifruit has long been regularly used as a garnish atop whipped cream on one of New Zealand and Australia's favourite desserts, the pavlova.
In 1935, the chef of the Hotel Esplanade in Perth, Western Australia, Herbert Sachse, created the pavlova to celebrate the visit of the great Russian ballerina, Anna Pavlova. Whilst it has been suggested this dessert was created in New Zealand, it has become recognized as a popular Australian dish.
TRADITIONAL PAVLOVA
- 4-6 egg whites
- pinch salt
- 8 oz castor sugar (or fine sugar or super finesugar (equal parts)
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla essence
- 2 level teaspoons cornflour
Lightly grease oven tray, line with baking paper or use non-stick cooking spray.
Beat the whites of eggs with a pinch of salt until stiff (until peaks form).
Continue beating, gradually adding sugar, vinegar and vanilla, until of thick consistency.
Lightly fold in cornflour.
Pile mixture into circular shape, making hollow in centre for filling.
(Mixture will swell during cooking)
Electric oven: turn oven to 250F (130C) and bake undisturbed for 1 1/2 hours.
Gas oven: bake at 400F (200C) for ten minutes, then turn oven to 250F (130C) and bake a further hour.
(Fan forced oven: temperature and time needs to be adjusted accordingly.)
Turn oven off, leave pavlova in oven until cool.
Top with whipped cream and decorate with fruit as desired.
Kiwifruit can be eaten whole, like an apple (and, rarely, even including the skin, which increases the tartness), cut in half and eaten like a passion fruit or peeled and sliced, like a pineapple. For people who prefer not to eat the skin, the fruit can be cut in half and then the flesh scooped out with a spoon. Kiwifruit is sometimes sold with a spife, a plastic tool designed for this purpose with a spoon at one end and a knife at the other. Another method is to slice the fruit into several rounds about 5 mm (1/4 in) thick, possibly cutting each round into quarters, and serving it, skin-on, as a platter or with plain yogurt.
Kiwifruit can be peeled using a potato peeler, drawing up from the bottom towards the thicker, harder end where the fruit was attached to its branch. Cutting "against the grain" releases juice which lubricates the blade and a swifter, cleaner cut results.
Here are a couple of recipes that use kiwifruits:
Tropical Pound Cake
WWWCOF COOKBOOK
Yield: 8 Servings
Weight Watchers Recipe taken from Nov 06 Global Express
- 1 low-fat, store-bought pound cake
- 1 Qt low-fat, vanilla frozen yogurt
- 2 kiwi fruit (sliced)
- 2 mangoes (cubed)
- 1 pineapple (cubed)
- 3 or 4 oranges (sectioned)
[Serves 8]
Salmon W/ Fresh Tropical Fruit Salsa
Yield: 4 Servings Preparation Time: :30
Sent in by
Sylvia from Dorset, UK, August 07 - 4 Salmon Fillets, 200grs Approx, -Skinned
- Juice Of 1 Lime Or Lemon
- 2 Teaspoon Clear Money
- 1 Tablespoon Soy Sauce, Light
- Salt & Pepper For The Salsa:
- 1/2 Mango, Ripe,peeled & Diced
- 1 Kiwi Fruit, Peeled & Diced
- 1 Plum, Or Nectarine, Stoned & Diced
- 1/2 Grapefruit,small, Peeled, Pithed & Diced
- 1 Teaspoon Mint, Chopped
- Mint Leaves, To Garnish
Wash salmon and pat dry with kitchen paper.
Place each salmon fillet on a large square of foil or baking parchment.
Mix together the juice honey and soy sauce and spoon over fish. Season with salt & pepper.
Bring the foil or parchment over the fish to form a parcel and fold edges together to seal.
Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until fish is cooked through.
Meanwhile, make the salsa.
Combine all the diced fruits in a large bowl, and the mint and season with salt & pepper to taste. Toss to mix.
Unwrap the salmon and transfer to four warmed plates.
Spoon over the salsa and serve immediately garnished with mint leaves.
Please send us your favourite recipes, tips or food facts / humour!
For now I'll leave you wishing you all a VERY HAPPY Week
Would love to hear from all of you.
Daphne from Argentina
Tests & Quizzes
Have you started playing our Trivia Quiz Game yet? Go on try it ... it is fun and it is hosted by 
Aussie Jeanette 
REUNION QUIZ #1
- When is Reunion 2008 being held?
- Where is Reunion 2008 being held, (city and country)?
- Approx How far is that from the country's capital?
- Is it on the coast or inland?
- if you answered "on the coast" would that be the Pacific or the Atlantic or somewhere else?
- If you answered "inland" would that be near mountains, hills or plains?
- What season will it be at reunion time?
- Oh dear, I wonder, Are there any hotels there?
- Where is the International airport we would land at?
- What is the official language of the host country?
- So, Does our host/ hostess speak English?
- What colours are in the National Flag of the host country?
- (Baker's dozen) what is the local currency there?
Sharon from Paradise Island, aka Vancouver Island, BC, Canada or Daphne from Argentina, thank you!
REUNION ARGENTINA OCTOBER 2008
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.
REUNION ARGENTINA OCTOBER 2008
Please drop by and visit the official 2008 reunion website where you'll find alot of the information you need
Don't forget to start the action to get your passport up to date. Life is too short not to come to Argentine at least once, and Reunion 2008 is an excellent opportunity for that, a well as a good chance to meet all your on-line buddies in real life and have some fun getting to know them better. So come on, fill in the inscription form, let us know you are booking your ticket.
This Week, with views to reunion Argentina 2008: MENDOZA Province
In the first week of March Mendoza, one of the country's biggest wine producers, has its annual wine festival. We had a reservation to be there this year, but for reasons beyond our control, we had to cancel it. But you can read about our trip there a couple of years ago, here.
Mendoza, Argentina is a land full of natural beauty. The Aconcagua, the snow, The paths of the wine, adventure holidays are some of the temptations that make Mendoza a privileged zone. For somewhere to sleep, Mendoza has Hotels, Apartment Hotels and cabins of top category, excellent stopping places and specials in farms or Bodegas.
Adventure and nature
Ever more people of all ages choose Mendoza in order to enjoy their free time combining the direct contact with nature and physical activity, the emotion, pleasure, relaxation and adventure.
Nature has blessed this region with scenery, climate, relieve, rivers and lakes ideal for enjoying life in the open air.
Aconcagua
Mountaineering is one of the activities that can be carried out in different moments of the years, as much in the hills and the pre-mountain chain, as in the high mountains. The biggest attraction here, although not the only one, is of course the Aconcagua, with its 6.959 metres above sea level, which makes it the highest mountain in the Americas. Jami is challenged to tackle this climb when she comes to reunion in October.
The rest of us will just try a 3 to 6 day trekking expedition where we do not go any higher than 3,000 meters, with vertical walls of ice and rock from where we will have an excellent view of the highest peak in the Andes mountain range.
Rafting in Mendoza
Mendoza is an excellent zone for practicing this sport in any of the five rivers of the province: Mendoza, Tunuyan, Atuel, Diamante y Grande. Rapids rafting is the alternative WWWCOF offers for those who need to be a bit nearer the ground rather than mountain climbing. Being October the rivers will not be quite so full as they otherwise would if we waited till the thaws in December, so it will not be quite so hectic. What a bore!
After our day outings we will visit the highly recommended restaurants where one can enjoy the high quality of wines of Mendoza, with a great meal.
Other trips can include the village of "Las Cuevas" on the frontier with Chile and a visit to the Inca Bridge, a natural rock formation
Much more information about MAR DEL PLATA
Daphne from ArgentinaMember of the Month Nominations
Received an email from Lena, from Ontario, Canada saying thank you for the member of the month and remarking what was a surprise it was!
days to vote for April's Member of the Month!
This award is not intended to be a comparison of member to member; each member's time and contributions are valuable and we acknowledge with pride that every member does what they can do.
The "winner" is the member who has received the most votes from the membership and nominations for Member of the Month for April closes March 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.
It is the pieces (our members) that make the whole (The World Wide Web Circle of Friends).
Flying Foxes
Flying foxes live in Asia and Australia, and islands of Indian and Pacific Oceans. Four species are native to Australia. The ones we saw were the larger ones with the russet colour. They are seasonal, and some communities do try to scare them away as they are so noisy and also make a lot of mess, but these were a little away from the houses. They are an endangered species and play an important role in propagation of forests etc.
In the past I have seen thousands rise from the trees to forage, particularly from Susan Island in Grafton, and it can be an awesome sight. On the weekend we saw them leave in the evening and return in the morning when they were circling around, preparing to settle.
I have lived in areas where they are very common, all my life. When I was a child, the smaller species, which we refer to as fruit bats, sometimes flew into the house at night, and I recall my father trying to get them onto a broom to put them back outside. Aussie Jan.
Our planet awareness site, Planet Kryzys has many interesting stories of different aspects of a planet under Crisis. Do please take a moment to visit it. Daphne from Argentina
?Did You Know?Crickets
Most of us either love 'em or hate 'em and one's decision either way often depends on how long and loud they serenade us into the wee hours of a late summer's eve.
There are over 2000 species of cricket and they're closely related to both the grasshopper and katydids. Some of them include the Camel Cricket, Snowy Tree Cricket, Mole Cricket, no, not 
Jiminy Cricket, and the Field Cricket, to name just a few. The males are the singers of the family and produce their sound by rubbing special structures on the wings across each other. Their song is often considered a harbinger of climate change.
What's really fascinating about these creatures is how they hear. Their ears are just below the "knees" of their front legs They're little openings that lead into chambers inside the leg and by facing one way or the other, a cricket can tell what direction sound is coming from.
The song of the field cricket is temperature dependent. The tone and tempo drop as the temperature does. Next time you hear a cricket, try counting the number of chirps in 13 seconds, add 40 and you'll have the approximate current temperature in degrees.
For more on this fascinating but sometimes annoying critter visit here.
Merrie from Ontario Canada
days until Reunion 2008!
Health Matters
(on the "lighter" side)
A WOMAN'S WEEK AT THE GYM
If you read this without laughing out loud, there is something wrong with you. This is dedicated to everyone who ever attempted to get into a regular workout routine.
Dear Diary,
For my birthday this year, my daughter (the dear) purchased a week of personal training at the local health club for me. Although I am still in great shape since being a high school football cheerleader 43 years ago, I decided it would be a good idea to go ahead and give it a try. I called the club and made my reservations with a personal trainer named Belinda, who identified herself as a 26-year-old aerobics instructor and model for athletic clothing and swim wear. My daughter seemed pleased with my enthusiasm to get started! The club encouraged me to keep a diary to chart my progress.
MONDAY: - Started my day at 6:00 a.m. Tough to get out of bed, but found it was well worth it when I arrived at the health club to find Belinda waiting for me. She is something of a Greek goddess -- with blonde hair, dancing eyes and a dazzling white smile. Woo Hoo!! Belinda gave me a tour and showed me the machines. I enjoyed watching the skillful way in which she conducted her aerobics class after my workout today. Very inspiring! Belinda was encouraging as I did my sit-ups, although my gut was already aching from holding it in the whole time she was around. This is going to be a FANTASTIC week!
TUESDAY: - I drank a whole pot of coffee, but I finally made it out the door. Belinda made me lie on my back and push a heavy iron bar into the air then She put weights on it! My legs were a little wobbly on the treadmill, but I made the full mile. Belinda's rewarding smile made it all worthwhile. I feel GREAT! It's a whole new life for me.
WEDNESDAY: - The only way I can brush my teeth is by laying the toothbrush on the counter and moving my mouth back and forth over it. I believe I have a hernia in both pectorals. Driving was OK as long as I didn't try to steer or stop. I parked on top of a GEO in the club parking lot. Belinda was impatient with me, insisting that my screams bothered the other club members. Her voice is a little too perky for this early in the morning and when she scolds, she gets this nasally whine that is VERY annoying. My chest hurt when I got on the treadmill, so Belinda put me on the stair monster. Why The Hell would anyone invent a machine to simulate an activity rendered obsolete by elevators? Belinda told me it would help me get in shape and enjoy life. She said some other sh*t too.
THURSDAY: - Belinda was waiting for me with her vampire-like teeth exposed as her thin, cruel lips were pulled back in a full snarl. I couldn't help being a half an hour late. It took me that long to tie my shoes. Belinda took me to work out with dumbbells. When she was not looking, I ran and hid in the restroom. She sent another skinny b**ch to find me. Then, as punishment, she put me on the rowing machine -- which I sank.
FRIDAY: - I hate that b**ch Belinda more than any human being has ever hated and other human being in the history of the world. Stupid, skinny, anemic, anorexic little cheerleader. If there was a part of my body I could move without unbearable pain, I would beat her with it. Belinda wanted me to work on my triceps. I don't have any triceps! And if you don't want dents in the floor, don't hand me the damned barbells or anything that weighs more than a sandwich. The treadmill flung me off and I landed on a health and nutrition teacher. Why couldn't it have been someone softer, like the drama coach or the choir director?
SATURDAY: - Belinda left a message on my answering machine in her grating, shrilly voice wondering why I did not show up today. Just hearing her made me want to smash the machine with my planner. However, I lacked the strength to even use the TV remote and ended up catching eleven straight hours of the Weather Channel.
SUNDAY: - I'm having the Church van pick me up for services today so I can go and thank GOD that this week is over. I will also pray that next year my daughter (the little sh*t) will choose a gift for me that is fun -- like a root canal or a hysterectomy.
Blessed are the cracked:
for it is they who let in the light
submitted by
Dorothy, from Essex, OntarioOn a more serious side, do take a moment to check out Canada's Nutrition and Health Atlas
WWWCOF MEMBERS
Moses from Uganda - I lost my half brother on Friday night so we spend some time; I mean couple of days at the family grave site. So returning home with my family after the burial; we found that our house had been gutted by fire destroying and burning everything. We really need your prayers in such a time to remain strong.
Daphne from Argentina - After several medical studies it has been found I have to have a Hysterectomy. I go into hospital next Monday 17th possible for 3 days. I feel calm about it, if it has to be done , so be it, but a small prayer for me will help a lot.
Please keep Daphne in prayer for this surgery that God will guide the surgeons and Daphne will be well and up & at it soon. Prayer for Global Healing Also let's keep the wwwcof reunion in prayer with Daphne even though it is a while away.
Maxine, from Ontario, Canada - Please continue to keep Maxine, her daughter Mary Jo and her family as they go through this time of grieving in the loss of Paul, Mary Jo's husband. Also prayer for healing for Mary Jo's health. 
Pami from New York, USA - Pami is finished with her radiation. Although Pami has chemo to go through now. Please continue to keep Pami in prayer for complete healing of all cancer.
Billie, from Ridgely, TN USA - Please continue to keep Billie's daughter Tonya in prayer for her needs and health as well as Billie as she is there to help Tonya and her family. May God Bless them one and all. Jami from Maryland, USA - Jami is planning a big change in her life. She is planning to move from Maryland to Florida within the next couple months. She needs prayer for guidance and for God to provide her with a job there. May God Bless Jami and may she turn to God for her decisions. Ellen from Georgia, USA - Please keep Ellen in prayer for healing the pain doctor said there is nothing he can do for her. She has many health problems. Please keep Ellen in prayer for relief of this awful pain.Irv wwwcof: Irv came through his surgery with flying colors although now has developed some tumors the doctors think may be cancer. Please keep Irv in prayer.
Peachy Marie
- Peachy has been down with a very bad back pain all week and Garnet Has had some problem with the gout. Please pray for each of them to be healed from their pain. May they have a healthy pain free rest of the time in Florida.Jonna wwwcof: Please keep Jonna in prayer she has fallen back into the clutches of satan! Jonna needs some serious prayer.
Cindy from Phillipston, MA - Husband, Vern, was just diagnosed with diabetes please keep Vern in prayer that this is under control.
Wanda from Thomasville, AL, USA - (No update yet) I'm just checking in and saying hello. I haven't been feeling well for over a week now, my feet and legs are swelling really bad and hurting and I can almost feel it happening when I am sitting in this chair. Please pray for Wanda as she is going through this problem with her feet and legs. May God heal her.
Ruth from Michigan, USA - Ruth has been fighting a flu type thing for a while now and is very weak. Please lift her up for God to heal this virus and bring her back to good health.Haley Miller: Haley will be having her tonsils out soon. No date yet. Please keep her in prayer as well as her Parents in prayer for drug addiction, and PLEASE keep little Haley in prayer for whatever may come her way.
Bea from the Catskills - I just read this from Bea and we really need to put her in some serious prayer. This disaster to her poor hip happened over a year ago. She had hip surgery and has never healed. She has been in and out of the hospital, a second surgery to fix the first one and a wound vacuum. Now she has passed out at home and was taken to the hospital by rescue team and ambulance where she was in the trauma unit for ten hours. She can't remember anything. She had all kinds of tests while in the trauma unit. Pami called her and she is now home. No where near well. There has to be something they are missing! God Please show them the answer. March 12 email from Bea - More bad news, I seen nerouglist today, I can not drive for 6 months, in fact have to have more tests, then on to wound care doctor, well, he was not very happy; as, it seems he suggests to have my hip replaced again, as inner part has been open too long, and won't heal so back to square 1 and lots to think about. Aussie Jan. - Nephew Mark was the pilot of the helicopter that crashed last Saturday. Mark has a broken leg and arm. Please pray for Marks healing and please remember to praise God for Mark's life being saved.
Arlene from Arizona, USA - Praise God Arlene is back from a very long stay in the hospital. She is still not feeling well so please continue to lift her to "THE GREAT PHYSICIAN" for permanent healing.
Arlene would like us to enjoy this May You Be Blessed Movie.
Betsy, aka AngelBear, from Florida - My best friend Rebecca's uncle Martin Nieman died yesterday. He was in a coma and had pneumonia so wasn't aware of what was happening. Her mom is really grieving for him. He was her brother. Please pray for her and her family to have strength and peace over this.
Please keep praying for Doug to get hired soon in a good job. Doug is applying for a job at Seminole Precast Concrete on Monday. It is work he has done before and has lots of experience in.
Daphne from Argentina - Prayer for Global Healing Also let's keep the wwwcof reunion in prayer with Daphne even though it is a year away. PLEASE PRAY FOR ALL IN THE MILITARY AND THEIR FAMILIES- Jamie Landon: (FlMaries Grand Daughter) Home from Iraq
- Bea's Step Grandson: (Jesse Kutnsen ) In Iraq
- Geoffery Landon: ( FlMaries Grandson) In Iraq
- Robert Fleming: (Peachy Marie's Grandson.) In Africa
- Stephen Johnson: (Christine Mills Pastors Son) In Iraq
- Robin Smith: (Christine Mills requests) In Iraq
Father, God bless all my friends in whatever it is that you know they may need this day! And may their life be full of your peace, prosperity and power as they seek to have a closer relationship with you. Amen.
Please email Charla, from Florida, USA with any Praises, Requests and/or UPDATES Thank you. May God Bless Each One and Have a Great Week!
Common Expressions - Origin & Meaning
Strait and narrow - A conventional and law-abiding course.'Straight' is a much more frequently used word than 'strait' these days and so the most common question about this phrase concerns the spelling - should it be 'strait and narrow' or 'straight and narrow'? Well, that depends on just how pedantic you want to be. The source of the expression is the Bible, specifically Matthew 7:13/14. The King James' Version gives these verses as:
Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.
That clearly opts for 'strait' rather than 'straight', as it calls on a now rather archaic meaning of strait, that is, 'a route or channel, so narrow as to make passage difficult'. This is still found in the names of various sea routes, e.g. the Straits of Dover. Such a nautical strait was defined in the 1867 version of Admiral Smyth's Sailor's Word-book as: "A passage connecting one part of a sea with another."
Smyth also offered the opinion that strait "is often written in the plural, but without competent reason". The 'confined and restricted' meaning of strait still also lingers on in straitjacket, dire straits, strait-laced and straitened circumstances. All of these are frequently spelled with 'straight' rather than 'strait'. These spellings, although technically incorrect, are now widely accepted and only 'dire straights' comes in for any sustained criticism. The use of 'straight' is quite understandable, certainly in 'straight and narrow'. After all, it means 'direct and reliable', as in the phrase 'as straight as a die', and the imagery of a direct and unwavering route to salvation would have been attractive to Christian believers in the 17th century, when that version of the spelling first appeared. It was included in an 1827 publication of A Journal of George Fox, Volume 1, which claims to be a facsimile reprint of the 1694 original journal. The earliest definitive documentation that I can find comes from a few years later, in The Critical Works of Monsieur Rapin, 1706:
"The soul of the common people seems too straight and narrow to be wrought upon by any Part of Eloquence."
This version of the phrase is old enough and close enough in date to the earliest example of 'strait and narrow' that I can find in print as to match it in status. That example is in A Vindication of the Government in Scotland: During the Reign of King Charles II, 1712:
"Strait and narrow is the way that leadeth unto life."
'Straight and narrow' is now the more common spelling and you will be in good company if you opt to use it, even though 'strait and narrow' might be a better choice if you want to get high marks in that English language test.
London Chrissie
Please visit my sites:
Chrissie's Homepage and
Chrissie's Place
I hope everyone enjoyed this week's edition of Global Express. Please take a moment to visit the March Trivia Pages!
Coffee & Chat
