tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56844858860603501812024-03-13T18:57:20.653-07:00Take A Happy Break!Geraldinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01541033372574718987noreply@blogger.comBlogger185125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5684485886060350181.post-6215039226542635022012-12-26T09:39:00.000-08:002012-12-27T12:32:56.257-08:00Happy Break Fond Farewell<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I've decided to cut back on blogging in the new year. I have a lot of projects on the go and having four active blogs is just too time-consuming right now. <br />
<br />
So, when the .com domain runs out here at Happy Break, within the next month, it will revert back to:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.takeahappybreak.blogspot.com/">www.takeahappybreak.blogspot.com</a> <br />
<br />
as I'm not going to renew the domain registration for another year.<br />
<br />
I don't want to delete the archives though so I decided to go this route instead.<br />
<br />
I loved the idea of a Happy Break blog when I started this blog a couple of years ago. I hope it's brought smiles and good energy to many readers, during the time I've been blogging here. I know many of the archive posts are still being read on a regular basis and I'm glad for that.<br />
<br />
I wish you all a wonderful, prosperous and productive 2013 and hope to see you at my other three blogs in the future. Those, I'm keeping active for now. <strong><span style="color: red;">:<)</span></strong><br />
<br />
Hugs, G</div>
Geraldinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01541033372574718987noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5684485886060350181.post-47229829719154271082012-12-16T09:29:00.001-08:002012-12-16T09:35:43.410-08:00The Message Still Rings True...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2v0v3aP1TI8/UM4DUt2peeI/AAAAAAAAAsY/j8X62pyMEbA/s1600/charlie+brown+tree.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2v0v3aP1TI8/UM4DUt2peeI/AAAAAAAAAsY/j8X62pyMEbA/s640/charlie+brown+tree.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
<strong><span style="color: #38761d;">My holiday tribute to Charlie Brown.</span></strong> </div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
This time of year, we get out our well-worn, much-watched VHS tape of <strong>Merry Christmas, Charlie Brown</strong> and give it another play. </div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<strong><span style="color: red;">A timeless message that still rings true. :<)</span></strong></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
Here's a bit more about the history of <strong><a href="http://mypoeticpath.wordpress.com/2011/12/17/the-true-spirit-of-the-holidays/" target="_blank">Charlie Brown</a> 's Christmas and the original post. </strong></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
Geraldinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01541033372574718987noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5684485886060350181.post-10751995254258433782012-12-06T12:43:00.001-08:002012-12-06T12:50:00.116-08:00First Doggie Tours the White House at Christmas<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">I guarantee this will make you smile!</span></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"> </span></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="color: red;">Bo: First Doggie</span></strong>, <strong><a href="http://www.whitehouse.gov/about/inside-white-house/holidays" target="_blank">touring the White House at Christmas</a> scroll down a bit and then click on <span style="color: red;">Bo Ho Ho</span> at that page. </strong><br />
<strong></strong><br />
<strong>How cute is that?</strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong>Mr. Cheddar thinks they should have a cat but that's another story<span style="color: red;">. ;<)</span></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="color: red;"></span></strong><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="color: red;">Ha</span></strong><strong><span style="color: red;">ppy Holidays! </span></strong></div>
</div>
Geraldinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01541033372574718987noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5684485886060350181.post-34683291860469344412012-11-16T09:03:00.001-08:002012-11-16T09:03:11.648-08:00I'm Taking a Happy Break!<br />
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
I'm taking a break from blogging here for now as I am on my own special <strong><span style="color: red;">Happy Break</span></strong>! </div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
I had some wonderful news in October and now I am following-up with a couple of projects that are taking up most of my time these days. All good stuff! </div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
Some of you already know what I am referring too. <strong><span style="color: red;">:<)</span></strong></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<strong><span style="color: red;">In the meantime, I wish you lots of happy days, happy breaks and great surprises.</span></strong></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<strong><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: large;">Dreams... can come true.</span> </span></strong></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
Geraldinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01541033372574718987noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5684485886060350181.post-59115766106429217042012-11-07T09:28:00.000-08:002012-11-07T09:37:32.954-08:00Life After Coffee and Corrie Street<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2374/5773141440_9ea7d102b6_z.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="color: red;">I've recently given up two of my long-time habits/fixes/vices...</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: red;"></span></strong> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong>Regular coffee</strong> and<strong> <a href="http://www.cbc.ca/coronation/" target="_blank">Coronation Street</a></strong> AKA Corrie Street (a British soap opera for those who aren't aware of this very popular TV show).</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
When it came to<strong> coffee</strong>, I've been drinking java since high school and often several cups in a day. It was something I never thought I'd give up, I LOVED coffee, big time.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
As I <a href="http://www.takeahappybreak.com/2012/10/a-week-of-small-miracles.html" target="_blank"><strong>blogged about</strong> </a><strong><a href="http://www.takeahappybreak.com/2012/10/a-week-of-small-miracles.html" target="_blank">here</a>,</strong> I had a recent health scare ending up at the Emergency department one morning with a racing heart. It was attributed back to a cup of regular coffee I had on an empty stomach, first thing in the morning; something I don't usually do. That was enough to convince me that the Cup o Joe has gotta go!!!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong>What was it like to give up coffee</strong>?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Well, I did have about 4 days of withdrawal <strong><a href="http://www.ehow.com/about_4679766_caffeine-withdrawal-symptoms.html" target="_blank">symptoms</a> (</strong>click to read more about those) including a <strong>WHOPPER of a headache</strong> that I've read since in the equivalent of a migraine. Apparently, coffee shrinks the brain and when we don't have it after imbibing on a regular basis, a headache (big time) is likely to occur.<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I<strong> also had brain fog, lack of concentration, tiredness, nausea...but it all past and now I actually feel a lot better and more energetic without regular coffee.</strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I haven't given up decaf coffee or a bit of chocolate now and then though. Here's <strong><a href="http://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0777440.html" target="_blank">a chart</a></strong> that shows just how much caffeine is in a variety of foods. A big difference, when it comes to regular brewed coffee and decaf. I'll take the latter now any day: organic and water processed of course.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
As far as <strong><a href="http://www.cbc.ca/coronation/" target="_blank">Corrie St</a></strong>. again that's been an addiction since high school but recently I realized this was the last TV show I was still watching and I was bored watching it now, so why bother. The plot lines in recent years have gone from bad to worse, many that I found stupid, some plain offensive. I don't miss it, and have gained back 2.5 hours I wasted on it every week. But again, it was something I never thought I'd give up.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Isn't it funny how we can adapt and change our minds about things we thought we "<strong>couldn't live without</strong>" if necessary. Or just because we've thought it through, about really needing/wanting something so much. <br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="color: red;">Life After Coffee and Corrie St. is just fine!! :<)</span></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong></strong> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong>Photo courtesy of <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lavsen/5773141440/sizes/z/" target="_blank">Flickr</a></strong></div>
</div>
Geraldinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01541033372574718987noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5684485886060350181.post-15293387412049546382012-10-31T12:03:00.000-07:002012-10-31T12:04:22.630-07:00Happy Halloween!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="504" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2179/1809230730_48d2cc1886.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Have a safe and spooooktacular night!!!!</span></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"></span></strong> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">****</span></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"></span></strong> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"></span></strong> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/anart-island/" target="_blank">Photo courtesy of Flickr.</a></span></strong></div>
</div>
Geraldinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01541033372574718987noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5684485886060350181.post-15017930075925062852012-10-27T11:36:00.001-07:002012-10-27T11:43:09.238-07:00Warming the Soul: My Version of Black Bean Soup<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<br />
<img alt="" src="http://veggiesyarnsandtails.files.wordpress.com/2010/03/dscn1432.jpg?w=620" title="DSCN1432" /><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="color: #45818e;">Brrrr....it's a chilly one, here today in Interior BC.</span></strong> <br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I just posted this recipe for my version of <strong><a href="http://veggiesyarnsandtails.wordpress.com/2012/10/27/on-the-menu-tonight-black-bean-soup-with-cornbread-scones/">Black Bean Soup</a></strong> over at my <strong><a href="http://veggiesyarnsandtails.wordpress.com/2012/10/27/on-the-menu-tonight-black-bean-soup-with-cornbread-scones/">cooking blog</a></strong> and thought I'd share it here too. I'm making this for supper tonight along with Cornbread Scones.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
When it comes to <strong>" "nurturing" </strong>and<strong> "warming the soul"</strong> is there anything better (especially on a cold day) than a big, steaming bowl of... oh, so satisfying soup? Right up at the top of my list!!! <strong><span style="color: red;">;<)</span></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="color: red;">What's on the menu at your place this weekend?</span></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong></strong> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong>Have a Wonderful Week!</strong></div>
</div>
Geraldinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01541033372574718987noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5684485886060350181.post-6192914344167584322012-10-20T09:42:00.002-07:002012-10-20T09:49:43.253-07:00A Week of Small Miracles<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9gNBxyYMXMM/UILOYYWcraI/AAAAAAAAArI/ZiliRQnVq_w/s1600/080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9gNBxyYMXMM/UILOYYWcraI/AAAAAAAAArI/ZiliRQnVq_w/s640/080.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
<strong>I've had quite a week here. A week of small miracles....</strong></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
On Tuesday morning, I had a feeling of my heart racing, sweaty palms, nausea....and so I "bit the bullet" so to speak and headed off (with Joe) to the Emergency at our local hospital.</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
Good news, it wasn't a heart attack. The "racing heart" and nausea got traced back to a cup of coffee I'd drunk on an empty stomach, something I don't normally do. I did find out that my heart and lungs are in good shape but I do need to get back to more exercise (which I already know). I'm not one for visiting doctors on a regular basis so it was great to find out in this round about way that my heart is in good condition, blood work good, lungs too.</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
After this scary "episode" I've decided to kick the caffeine habit altogether so I've been suffering through some withdrawal symptoms: headache big time after the first day without caffeine but I think the worst is behind me know. I actually feel better without it! I'm rather proud of myself for taking this step as I've been enjoying coffee for a LONG time and never thought I'd be giving it up. But it is a drug and it is something I can do without.</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
While I was lying in the hospital that day, it struck me what a miracle our bodies are. All the systems that work together to keep us going and try to keep us well. A miracle that's for sure. I was so glad to go home that afternoon but it was a wake-up to once again commit myself to getting fitter, cutting back a bit on calories and showing my body the respect it deserves, in all ways.</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
I also found out about an amazing book called the<a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/0446675156/ref=as_li_tf_til?tag=myrelire-20&camp=14573&creative=327641&linkCode=as1&creativeASIN=0446675156&adid=1NWGAE6ZRJKVDQA1DKZF&&ref-refURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.takeahappybreak.com%2F"> </a><strong><a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/0446675156/ref=as_li_tf_til?tag=myrelire-20&camp=14573&creative=327641&linkCode=as1&creativeASIN=0446675156&adid=1NWGAE6ZRJKVDQA1DKZF&&ref-refURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.takeahappybreak.com%2F">MindBody Prescription</a> by Dr. John Sarno</strong> featured <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vsR4wydiIBI"><strong>in this clip</strong></a><strong> </strong>on the <strong>TV</strong> <strong>program: 20/20</strong> from a few years ago. I've been trying this approach for about a week now for an ongoing ankle issue I've had that flares up, off and on. It really works! The pain in my ankle is almost gone already (amazing but true) and I am able to exercise and walk more freely than I have in a very long time. </div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
I've always believed that the connection of our mind and body is key to our health and well-being. But this doctor takes it to a new level, relating so many pain issues back to repressed anger and other emotional issues. All I know is that it's a harmless approach and for me it's working well. For thousands of other people too, based on this report. <br />
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<strong><span style="color: red;">Miracles can happen in the most unexpected ways, can't they?</span><span style="color: red;"> :<)</span></strong></div>
Geraldinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01541033372574718987noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5684485886060350181.post-60683617683114819842012-10-11T12:06:00.000-07:002012-10-11T12:11:24.196-07:00Mr. Cheddar, JJ and Ched's missing beret!!!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pkvoZDmrwf8/UHcVkYdZ4UI/AAAAAAAAAqI/YeLsWWEPdkg/s1600/hair,+ched,+jiffy+yarn+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pkvoZDmrwf8/UHcVkYdZ4UI/AAAAAAAAAqI/YeLsWWEPdkg/s400/hair,+ched,+jiffy+yarn+004.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
You might remember this<strong><a href="http://www.takeahappybreak.com/2011/11/word-of-week-break.html"> photo and post</a> </strong>from a while back, featuring<strong> <a href="http://www.takeahappybreak.com/2011/11/word-of-week-break.html">Mr. Cheddar</a></strong><a href="http://www.takeahappybreak.com/2011/11/word-of-week-break.html"> </a>looking oh so handsome in his new knit beret! </div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
A beret that only stayed on his head just long enough to take that (rather shakey) photo above!!! </div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<strong>Anyhow, it seems that another member of the family had "designs" on this hat:</strong></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-it7eoQl1DR0/UHcWJkWg6oI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/AWtfS3iVvwU/s1600/misc+from+sept+oct+12+010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="476" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-it7eoQl1DR0/UHcWJkWg6oI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/AWtfS3iVvwU/s640/misc+from+sept+oct+12+010.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7A3jHHv_f9c/UHcWZIquPII/AAAAAAAAAqY/rNS_yC0ESWs/s1600/misc+from+sept+oct+12+009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7A3jHHv_f9c/UHcWZIquPII/AAAAAAAAAqY/rNS_yC0ESWs/s640/misc+from+sept+oct+12+009.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
That's right. <strong>JJ the Sock Monkey </strong>recently decided that this <strong>beret</strong> should not go to waste. Also, with the winter coming soon, perhaps<strong> JJ</strong> felt the need for a bit of headgear for himself. LOL</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But, lo and behold, shortly after these pics of<strong> JJ</strong> were taken, <strong><span style="color: red;">Mr. Cheddar promptly went up and knocked the hat off JJ head in protest</span></strong>!!! Go figure. It was soooo funny to watch. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>You can't have it both ways Ched. I made the hat for you but....if you aren't going to wear it, maybe it's time to learn the joy of sharing!</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><strong>Hope these critters (real and not so real) bring a smile to your day! :<)</strong></span></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
</div>
Geraldinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01541033372574718987noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5684485886060350181.post-47442600480168481602012-10-06T09:08:00.001-07:002012-10-06T09:41:21.877-07:00Many Reasons to Be Thankful<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qk6WyCyOXe8/UHBVt_mkaWI/AAAAAAAAAps/pCCpGTWlfjg/s1600/happy+thanksgiving.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qk6WyCyOXe8/UHBVt_mkaWI/AAAAAAAAAps/pCCpGTWlfjg/s640/happy+thanksgiving.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong><span style="color: #38761d;">It's Thanksgiving weekend here in Canada.</span></strong> </span></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">There is always much to be thankful for, in spite of the challenges that life presents. </span></div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span> </div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">I am grateful for many good people in my life, good health, living in a free country, free speech, the abilities I have....always so many reasons to be thankful. Sometimes it helps to take a minute and consider them all; especially on those difficult days.... </span></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Georgia;"><strong>I wish you a week filled with all kinds of blessings. <span style="color: red;">:<)</span></strong></span></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
</div>
Geraldinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01541033372574718987noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5684485886060350181.post-88560670430192571712012-10-01T09:44:00.004-07:002012-10-01T09:54:21.549-07:00Rest Awhile...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div align="center">
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lj5p10MRahA/UGnHTKOj1WI/AAAAAAAAAo0/vjxV88ICzNw/s1600/rest+awhile.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lj5p10MRahA/UGnHTKOj1WI/AAAAAAAAAo0/vjxV88ICzNw/s640/rest+awhile.png" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Gautami;"><span style="color: teal; font-size: large;">Rest awhile.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Gautami;"><span style="color: teal;"></span></span><span style="color: teal; font-family: Gautami; font-size: large;">Far from the struggles and strains of life.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: teal; font-family: Gautami; font-size: large;">Find that place and seal it in your heart.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: teal; font-family: Gautami; font-size: large;">To pause; retreat to.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: teal; font-family: Gautami; font-size: large;">Where grace always dwells.</span><br />
<span style="color: teal; font-family: Gautami; font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: teal; font-family: Gautami; font-size: large;">Rest awhile.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: teal; font-family: Gautami;"></span><span style="color: teal; font-family: Gautami; font-size: large;">Put back the smile.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: teal; font-family: Gautami; font-size: large;">Somewhere lost.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: teal; font-family: Gautami; font-size: large;">Now: softly, silently returned.</span><br />
<span style="color: teal; font-family: Gautami; font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: teal; font-family: Gautami; font-size: large;">Rest awhile.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: teal; font-family: Gautami;"></span><span style="color: teal; font-family: Gautami; font-size: large;">Peace:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: teal; font-family: Gautami; font-size: large;">A beacon in the dark.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: teal; font-family: Gautami; font-size: large;">Sheltered, nurturing.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: teal; font-family: Gautami; font-size: large;">Safe and sublime.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: teal; font-family: Gautami; font-size: large;">Rest awhile.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: teal; font-family: Gautami;"></span><span style="color: teal; font-family: Gautami; font-size: large;">Treasured moments.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: teal; font-family: Gautami; font-size: large;">Tranquil dawns.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: teal; font-family: Gautami; font-size: large;">May your tomorrows.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: teal; font-family: Gautami; font-size: large;">Outlive life’s storms.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: teal; font-family: Gautami;"></span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: teal; font-family: Gautami; font-size: large;">***</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: teal; font-family: Gautami; font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: teal; font-family: Gautami;"><span style="color: black; font-size: large;">This one's for you <a href="http://colourandstuffl.blogspot.ca/">Lorraine.</a> I hope you have a much better week. Hugs, G</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: teal; font-family: Gautami;"></span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: teal; font-family: Gautami; font-size: large;">“Rest Awhile…” © 2008 Geraldine H. Hartman</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Gautami;"><span style="color: teal;"><span style="font-size: large;">Photo courtesy of</span><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/bryangrayson/441422506/sizes/m/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;"> Flickr</span></a></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
</div>
Geraldinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01541033372574718987noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5684485886060350181.post-16624779555656827752012-09-23T00:00:00.000-07:002012-09-23T00:00:05.429-07:00Let It Go!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: Georgia;"><strong>when….</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong></strong> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong>*life deals yet another 22</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong>*dark days of despair become the norm</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong>*sunshine has left the sky; silver linings hard to find</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong>*no one seems to notice when you do the “right” thing</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong>*the bills arrive on time; THE cheque doesn’t</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong>*when a friend betrays a confidence</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong>*a family member let’s us down</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong>*when someone else gets the promotion</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong>*dinner is a disaster, in spite of best efforts</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong>*another “winner” chosen for the contest</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong>*when someone you care about is hurt for no reason</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong>*the newspaper stuns with a front page of doom/gloom</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong>*the bank account seems to have dwindled overnight</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong>*the will to try just once more is just not there…</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: Georgia;"><strong>LET IT GO!</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: Georgia;"><strong></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #f1c11d; font-family: Georgia;"><strong>*a perfect 21 is also in that deck </strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #f1c11d; font-family: Georgia;"><strong></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #f1c11d; font-family: Georgia;"><strong>*it is always darkest before the dawn</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #f1c11d; font-family: Georgia;"><strong></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #f1c11d; font-family: Georgia;"><strong>*the sun always shines, who needs a lining! </strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #f1c11d; font-family: Georgia;"><strong> </strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #f1c11d; font-family: Georgia;"><strong>*YOU always knows you’ve done the “right” thing</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #f1c11d; font-family: Georgia;"><strong></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #f1c11d; font-family: Georgia;"><strong>*the bills can wait one more day, the cheque IS in the mail</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #f1c11d; font-family: Georgia;"><strong></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #f1c11d; font-family: Georgia;"><strong>*maybe they weren’t that good of a friend after all</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #f1c11d; font-family: Georgia;"><strong></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #f1c11d; font-family: Georgia;"><strong>*forgive and forget is easier than bearing a grudge</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #f1c11d; font-family: Georgia;"><strong></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #f1c11d; font-family: Georgia;"><strong>*the job might not be the best for you upon closer scrutiny</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #f1c11d; font-family: Georgia;"><strong></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #f1c11d; font-family: Georgia;"><strong>*be thankful for food on the table and a second chance</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #f1c11d; font-family: Georgia;"><strong></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #f1c11d; font-family: Georgia;"><strong>*another contest is out there and it is YOURS</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #f1c11d; font-family: Georgia;"><strong></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #f1c11d; font-family: Georgia;"><strong>*to be sensitive to those in need is a gift. give it, often</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #f1c11d; font-family: Georgia;"><strong></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #f1c11d; font-family: Georgia;"><strong>*what about the “feel good” stories. they are there too.</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #f1c11d; font-family: Georgia;"><strong></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #f1c11d; font-family: Georgia;"><strong>*feel blessed to have a bank account with any money in it</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #f1c11d; font-family: Georgia;"><strong> </strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #f1c11d; font-family: Georgia;"><strong>*the best way to begin, is to begin; inspiration will follow</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #f1c11d; font-family: Georgia;"><strong></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong></strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><strong>*** </strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is a poem I wrote a few years ago. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I was thinking about it again this past week and thought that the phrase: <strong>"let it go"</strong> would be a good thought/mantra to share. Sometimes, that's all we can do, isn't it?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here's <strong><a href="http://mypoeticpath.wordpress.com/2009/03/23/let-it-go/">the link</a></strong> to the original post with reader's comments.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><strong>Have a wonderful week. :<)</strong></span></div>
Geraldinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01541033372574718987noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5684485886060350181.post-89752303727522099982012-09-16T00:00:00.000-07:002012-09-16T09:18:15.519-07:00Word of the Week: Greatness!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div id="yui_3_5_1_3_1347725435599_895" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gthCEJXdong/UFSqwrtlE9I/AAAAAAAAAoc/fndqdjXLEwM/s1600/late+august+11+sky+at+sunset+011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="476" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gthCEJXdong/UFSqwrtlE9I/AAAAAAAAAoc/fndqdjXLEwM/s640/late+august+11+sky+at+sunset+011.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue;">"The greatness comes not when things go always good for you. But the greatness comes when you're really tested, when you take some knocks, some disappointments, when sadness comes. Because only if you've been in the deepest valley can you ever know how magnificent it is to be on the highest mountain."</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue;"></span> </div>
<div id="yui_3_5_1_3_1347725435599_894" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue;">-Richard Milhouse Nixon </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<h1 class="photo-title" id="title_div" property="dc:title" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: purple; font-size: small;">"Think like a queen. A queen is not afraid to fail. Failure is another steppingstone to greatness."</span></h1>
<div class="photo-desc" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: purple;">-Oprah Winfrey</span></div>
<div class="photo-desc" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="photo-desc" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="photo-desc" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue;">"Keep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but really great people make you feel that you too, can become great.</span></div>
<div class="photo-desc" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue;"></span> </div>
<div class="photo-desc" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue;">-Mark Twain </span></div>
<div class="photo-desc" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="photo-desc" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="photo-desc" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: purple;"><strong>***</strong></span></div>
<div class="photo-desc" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="photo-desc" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="photo-desc" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="photo-desc" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I can't think of anything that inspires me more to consider life's endless possibilities and opportunities, than gazing at a beautiful sky.</span></div>
<div class="photo-desc" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<div class="photo-desc" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: purple;"> <strong>Greatness.</strong></span> </span></span></div>
<div class="photo-desc" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black;"></span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<div class="photo-desc" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What an encompassing and beautiful ideal to aspire too.</span></div>
<div class="photo-desc" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black;"></span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<div class="photo-desc" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We all have the potential to be great. Even if it applies to only one talent, skill, gift... isn't it worth aspiring too? </span></div>
<div class="photo-desc" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black;"></span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<div class="photo-desc" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I hope these quotes will inspire you to explore and discover your own path to greatness, this week and every week.</span></div>
<div class="photo-desc" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black;"></span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<div class="photo-desc" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black;"></span><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong> ***</strong></span><br />
<strong><span style="color: blue; font-family: Arial;"></span></strong><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="color: blue;">And some new posts at my other blogs:</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: red;"></span></strong> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #ff6600;"><strong></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="color: black;">Veggies, Yarns & Tails</span>: <a href="http://veggiesyarnsandtails.wordpress.com/2012/09/16/mr-cheddar-and-the-scoop-on-pet-food-storage/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #966645;">Mr. Cheddar and the Scoop on Pet Food Storage</span></a></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong></strong> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #966645;"></span></span><strong>My Poetic Path: <a href="http://mypoeticpath.wordpress.com/2012/09/14/autumn-feast-a-tau-ku-poem/">Autumn Feast. A Tau-Ku Poem</a></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black;"><strong></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black;"><strong>My Real Life Reviews: <a href="http://www.myreallifereviews.com/2012/09/sea-glass-hearts-by-josie-iselin.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #966645;">Sea Glass Hearts (book review)</span></a></strong></span></div>
</div>
<div class="photo-desc" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<div class="photo-desc" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
</div>
Geraldinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01541033372574718987noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5684485886060350181.post-3581867289046742502012-09-09T10:48:00.002-07:002012-09-09T10:48:37.666-07:00Word of the Week: Catch-Up!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1PZwypWNYL4/UEzVitlOwSI/AAAAAAAAAn4/QwL2feOZYKc/s1600/pile+of+books+for+post.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1PZwypWNYL4/UEzVitlOwSI/AAAAAAAAAn4/QwL2feOZYKc/s400/pile+of+books+for+post.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm planning for a<strong> <span style="color: red;">catch-up</span></strong> week that might stretch to more like a month. LOL </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My desk "pile" (overflowing into a box now...) has gotten a bit "unruly" as of late. LOL In particular, a backlog of <strong>books and also some products to review,</strong> over at:<strong><a href="http://www.myreallifereviews.com/" target="_blank"> My Real Life Reviews </a></strong>. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm also waiting on several book reviews pending for my <strong><span id="goog_751876628"></span><a href="http://www.mypoeticpath.wordpress.com/">two new poetry books</a></strong> <span id="goog_751876629"></span>and more review copies coming in the mail right now, so I know how frustrating it can be to wait. My apologies to anyone who's sent me a book that I haven't reviewed yet. <strong>It is NOT forgotten.</strong> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm also working on my novel. Still going great but every time I think I'm almost done, the plot "takes off" in another direction! I'll take it though. So much better than the <span style="color: red;"><strong>blank screen/page/mind</strong> <strong>syndrome</strong>. <strong>;<</strong>)</span> We've all been there, right?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I have a gazillion projects on the go but I know so well that focusing and finishing one at a time, is always the best course of action, if at all possible. Or alternately, having a goal of a portion to complete, on any given day. That works too, especially for larger projects. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So, it's <strong><span style="color: red;">catch-up</span></strong> week here. I hope I've inspired you to work on your own pile of projects too. It's soooo satisfying to get them completed!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><strong>Happy Week, G</strong> :<)</span></div>
</div>
Geraldinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01541033372574718987noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5684485886060350181.post-31648695553860586652012-09-02T00:00:00.000-07:002012-09-02T01:37:54.720-07:00Word of the Week: Talisman<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WGB6TupBUUQ/UEDkUKCJgDI/AAAAAAAAAmE/gbRK2Yv6SjE/s1600/talisman+for+psot-crop.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WGB6TupBUUQ/UEDkUKCJgDI/AAAAAAAAAmE/gbRK2Yv6SjE/s320/talisman+for+psot-crop.JPG" width="275" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">Do you believe in talismans?</span></strong> </span></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
This gorgeous <strong>"sachet" type talisman</strong> above was made for me by a friend who is a <strong>good (white</strong>)<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/White_witch"><strong>witch</strong></a><strong>.</strong> It contains various herbs and plants believed to ward off evil.</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
I have it on the back of our front door, along with: a rosary, cross, (very) small totem ...covering all the bases, so to speak.<strong><span style="color: red;"> ;<)</span></strong><br />
</div>
<div align="center">
This lovely talisman is also an ongoing reminder of my friend's concern and support, while I was going through a very difficult time. That kind of friendship is a gift and a treasure. Her thoughtfulness in making this personal and unique gift for me meant so much.</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MhV333zn92I/UEDlbx2AklI/AAAAAAAAAmM/_rZaByq5VaE/s1600/talisman+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MhV333zn92I/UEDlbx2AklI/AAAAAAAAAmM/_rZaByq5VaE/s320/talisman+2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
This is my <strong>writing talisman</strong>.</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
I wear it when I'm working on creative writing projects. Another gift. I love the symbolism of the sun, the light, shining....all good. <br />
<br />
Some writers wear hats, a certain T-shirt etc... I like my sun necklace.<br />
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
I'm also sharing an archive haiku/haiga over at<strong> <a href="http://mypoeticpath.wordpress.com/2012/09/02/haiku-reflections-talisman-2/">My Poetic Path</a></strong> today, featuring the theme: <strong>talisman</strong>. Hope you'll stop by to see that too.</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<strong>I wish you a week filled with wonders of all kinds, including luck and good fortune.</strong></div>
<div align="center">
<strong></strong> </div>
<div align="center">
<strong></strong> </div>
<div align="center">
<strong><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: red;">Don't forget your talisman!</span> ;<)</span></strong></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<h2 class="def-header" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><em>Talisman:</em></span></h2>
<div class="sblk" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;">
<div class="scnt">
<span class="ssens">- <em>an object held to act as a charm to avert evil and bring good fortune </em></span></div>
</div>
<div class="snum" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;">
<em></em> </div>
<div class="scnt" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span class="ssens"><em>- something producing apparently magical or miraculous effects</em> </span></div>
<div class="scnt" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span class="ssens"></span> </div>
<div class="scnt" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span class="ssens">Definition courtesy of <a href="http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/talisman">Merriam Webster.com</a></span></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
</div>
Geraldinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01541033372574718987noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5684485886060350181.post-77692170334441629492012-08-26T00:00:00.000-07:002012-08-26T08:34:32.914-07:00A LOL with Mr. Cheddar and His New Pal !!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xb2DoayYygA/UDUzDy4TPNI/AAAAAAAAAls/O0bNvHUFhXE/s1600/Ched+and+JJ.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xb2DoayYygA/UDUzDy4TPNI/AAAAAAAAAls/O0bNvHUFhXE/s640/Ched+and+JJ.JPG" width="512" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
<strong><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">Mr. Cheddar</span> and his new pal <span style="color: black;">JJ</span> !!</span></strong></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<strong>Feel free to leave a <span style="color: red;">caption</span> if one comes to mind.</strong></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
For me, it's: <strong>RIDE</strong> <strong>THE CHAMPION! </strong></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
Remember those mechanical horses they use to have at malls and grocery stores? Maybe they still do! I loved riding <strong>the Champion</strong>. Looks like JJ does too. </div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
I don't know if the Chedster is all that amused though<strong><span style="color: red;">. ;<)</span></strong></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<strong><span style="color: red;">Wishing you a happy week with LOTS of LOL's.</span></strong></div>
</div>
Geraldinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01541033372574718987noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5684485886060350181.post-8193541110895669872012-08-19T00:00:00.000-07:002012-08-19T00:29:38.943-07:00Word of the Week: Focus<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f4BhkLMc_Kk/UCqVcV475XI/AAAAAAAAAlU/IbL_rdkitUQ/s1600/fuji+camera.png" /></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
<strong><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">FOCUS</span></strong></div>
<div align="center">
<br /> </div>
<div align="center">
It's so easy to get distracted, isn't it? <br />
<br />
To have our thoughts go in all different directions, instead of being <strong>focused </strong>on one thing at a time. <strong>This is an issue I am constantly working on.</strong> </div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
But I know how important it is to be <strong>focused.</strong> In theory at least.<strong><span style="color: red;"> ;<)</span></strong></div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
If we are going to do our best work on any kind of project or task, we can't <strong>also </strong>be mulling over: what to make for supper, whether the plants need watering, filing nails at the same time...the list goes on and on.<br />
<br />
I have also been making an effort recently not to get signed up for too many "extras" online, that take up time and often in rather trivial ways including: too many newsletters, email alerts...lots of distractions. I'm also not a fan of <strong>Facebook or Twitter</strong> anymore. I know a lot of people just love these social media sites but for me, they were just more ways to waste precious time. <br />
<br />
On the other hand, I don't consider<strong> blogging</strong> a waste of time, at all. I find it energizing and stimulating. Writing posts and visiting my (many) fav blogs. These pursuits add to my day, in a positive and productive way. Within reason for blogging time, of course!!! LOL </div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
I have a number of wonderful and diverse <strong>creative projects</strong> on the go right now that I am<strong> really excited</strong> about. I'm swamped, but in a good way! But in order to proceed with all of them productively, I need to have a plan each day what I'll be working on.<br />
<br />
Focusing...instead of randomly trying to work on several tasks and getting diverted and distracted along the way. <br />
<br />
<strong>Multi-tasking </strong>appears to be productive but apparently it isn't. That's been proven again and again. I blogged about multi-tasking vs chunking <strong><a href="http://www.takeahappybreak.com/2012/03/yeah-butheh-i-love-to-multi-task.html">previously here.</a></strong> </div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
<strong>I hope you find this word/mantra for the week helpful with your own creative pursuits.</strong> </div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
<strong><span style="color: #990000;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">WISHING YOU A HAPPY AND PRODUCTIVE WEEK! :<)</span></span></strong></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
</div>
Geraldinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01541033372574718987noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5684485886060350181.post-61282362524320349732012-08-12T00:00:00.000-07:002012-08-12T00:00:03.832-07:00Word of the Week: Open<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nc61tK83r3U/UB_53-zY7SI/AAAAAAAAAkk/k5xwzNfG4yU/s1600/032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="476" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nc61tK83r3U/UB_53-zY7SI/AAAAAAAAAkk/k5xwzNfG4yU/s640/032.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
<strong><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"><em>OPEN</em></span></strong></div>
<div align="center">
<br /> </div>
<div align="center">
Being <strong>open </strong>to new ideas, suggestions, opinions...I think it's so important.<br />
<br />
Something that I've noted in my own life, again and again. When I had a belief, opinion, sometimes a misconception... about a particular topic, then did a complete "360" after talking to someone or reading an alternate opinion. Sometimes right away and sometimes, it took some time.</div>
<div align="center">
<br /> </div>
<div align="center">
Being <strong>open</strong> keeps us "in the loop" vibrant, young at heart. Not that it isn't good to have personal beliefs that don't change and are part of who we are. But there are so many things that aren't "written in stone". That might at some time, be good to take another look at. Listen with an open heart.</div>
<div align="center">
<br /> </div>
<div align="center">
<strong><span style="color: #38761d;">Nothing is more beautiful than a flower, just opening it's beauty to the world. </span></strong></div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
<strong>Here's to being open and as fresh as a blooming flower, throughout life. </strong></div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
<strong><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Makes things interesting too, don't you think?</span> :<)</span></strong></div>
<div align="center">
<br /> </div>
<div align="center">
<strong>Wishing You a Wonderful Week!</strong> </div>
</div>Geraldinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01541033372574718987noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5684485886060350181.post-50113524457704045662012-08-05T00:00:00.000-07:002012-08-05T03:23:02.622-07:00Word of the Week: Evolve<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm participating over at <strong><a href="http://mypoeticpath.wordpress.com/2012/08/04/haiku-reflections-all-in-good-time/">One Single Impression</a></strong> today. The prompt this week is <strong><span style="color: red;">shortcut</span></strong>. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I loved the prompt and wrote a haiku for it. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
One of the words I used in my haiku was: <strong><span style="color: red;">evolve.</span></strong> Another word I love. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You can see my <strong>One Single Impression</strong> post <strong><a href="http://mypoeticpath.wordpress.com/2012/08/04/haiku-reflections-all-in-good-time/">here</a></strong>.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
As I said in my haiku, we really do evolve <strong>"all in good time"</strong> I think. There are<strong> no shortcuts</strong>. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
When we try to rush things, strain against the supposed "obstacles" that come up along the way, it rarely seems to work. Struggling to speed things up, in terms of where we think we should be heading and what we should be doing.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong>To evolve....to continue to learn, grow and improve.</strong> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="color: red;">Wishing you a wonderful week on your life's journey. Namaste!</span></strong></div>
</div>Geraldinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01541033372574718987noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5684485886060350181.post-32423279870384024172012-07-29T00:00:00.000-07:002012-07-29T00:00:00.975-07:00Word of the Week: Productivity!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QtqJoWcHWdU/UBQnjMLUSSI/AAAAAAAAAkM/GFEN-sXydXA/s1600/067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QtqJoWcHWdU/UBQnjMLUSSI/AAAAAAAAAkM/GFEN-sXydXA/s400/067.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I've been away from blogging for the past month, working on a number of offline projects. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">It's been a most productive month!</span><span style="color: red;"> :<)</span> </span></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I finished up a number of craft projects that have been "in the works" some for a long time including a couple of gifts I sewed. Book orders ready and sent. Proposals I'm working on....</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The crafts, I'll be sharing over at <strong><a href="http://veggiesyarnsandtails.wordpress.com/">Veggies...</a></strong>in the near future, with photos.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The weather was for the most part was toooo hot to enjoy much outdoor activity so I wasn't tempted to venture outside all that much. I am not a fan of overly hot weather. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I also completed my haiku poetry book:<strong> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/147745280X/ref=as_li_tf_til?tag=myrelire-20&camp=14573&creative=327641&linkCode=as1&creativeASIN=147745280X&adid=063BN084TAX8E2JQRH4Q&&ref-refURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.takeahappybreak.com%2F">Haiku Reflections; The Four Seasons</a></strong>, now available for sale over at<strong> Amazon.</strong> Again, another project I was happy to complete and also happy with the results.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And I've been working through the edits of my novel. Again, going very well. I'm really feeling hopeful and positive about the story I've written. Some knowledgeable (former and new) contacts in the book biz. have "surfaced" recently, so I'm getting some pointers/advice how best to proceed after I'm finished with all the edits and ready to go from there. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I was procrastinating on this project, truth be told. After I had finished my first draft, I was excited and at the same time, apprehensive about the next step in the process. But now that I have gotten past that hurdle and have actually started working to finish the book, I am really feeling good about my work. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A long time ago, a man I was involved with shared this quote with me, apparently credited to L. Ron Hubbard, of Scientology "fame". I'm NOT a fan of Scientology but I did like this quote and I never forgot it:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong>"Production is the Basis of all Morale"</strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I don't know about the ALL part but being productive is so energizing, when it comes to creative projects. Taking an ordinary or even bad day and turning it around for the better.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Another quote I like:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong>"Just begin, the inspiration will follow."</strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This one shared by a famous Canadian painter I had the privilege to interview years ago. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Sometimes, we don't feel like starting. I know that only too well. But the inspiration DOES follow. <strong>The best way to begin, is, to</strong> <strong>begin</strong> (my quote) and it's so true.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong>Best of luck with all your creative pursuits too! When we encourage and support each other, it's even easier to be productive I believe. Positive vibes and energy, love it!!!!</strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'll be catching up with all my blog visiting this week.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="color: yellow;">Happy Week!</span></strong></div>
</div>Geraldinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01541033372574718987noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5684485886060350181.post-78636639206463676802012-07-02T00:00:00.000-07:002012-07-02T00:00:06.123-07:00Word of the Week: Goodness<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T9ZaN3PbFlA/T-n-iefPppI/AAAAAAAAAjs/Yq-5hQEHp6k/s1600/070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T9ZaN3PbFlA/T-n-iefPppI/AAAAAAAAAjs/Yq-5hQEHp6k/s640/070.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
I decided to resurrect my "word of the week" posts, to share a word that's been on my mind a lot lately: </div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">goodness.</span></strong></div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
I tend to be overly sensitive and regularly get "bogged down" when I read or see stories about violence, cruelty, inhumanity....They come to mind, again and again and often stop me from sleeping too. I'm not one of those lucky people that can "hit the pillow" and be out like a light. My mind tends to go into overdrive on many a night and often not with happy, peaceful thoughts.</div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
At the same time, this simple but rather profound thought came to me a while back and it has helped me to cope a bit more when dark thoughts come to mind. </div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
And that good thought is<strong> how things in the world seem to balance out and still favor the goodness of people in general</strong>. The stories that aren't always front and center. There are lots of them. The inspiring people who do more than their share to "do the right thing" and make a difference for the better, on a regular basis.</div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
Yes, the darkness, the evil is always there. The free will that has gone so far astray for too many people, for whatever reasons. </div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
But the goodness, the light is<strong> always shining too</strong> and hopefully, still out-weighing, the bad things that happen in this world. Miracles, good deeds, beauty, ethics, truth, intergrity....it's all there. </div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
***</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<strong>PS: I'm taking a blog break starting this week, for the rest of July. </strong><br />
<strong>Time to get outside and off the computer. </strong><br />
<br />
<strong><span style="color: #cc0000;">Hope you are having a wonderful summer! </span></strong></div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
</div>Geraldinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01541033372574718987noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5684485886060350181.post-29318444945325260132012-06-23T21:23:00.004-07:002012-06-24T11:19:55.329-07:00A Rainy Week Haiku<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BajovOCe8x8/T-aUPBuhfGI/AAAAAAAAAjg/LtmdMuDpygw/s1600/delicate-beauty2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BajovOCe8x8/T-aUPBuhfGI/AAAAAAAAAjg/LtmdMuDpygw/s640/delicate-beauty2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
We've had a week of almost non-stop rain, here in Interior BC and more to come. </div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
I was going through some previous haiku posts over at <a href="http://mypoeticpath.wordpress.com/"><strong>My Poetic</strong> <strong>Path</strong></a> this past week and noted this one. Thought it was in keeping with the current weather and forecast too. It's one of my favs actually.</div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
I remember taking this photo and wondering at the time if it would show up as well in a photo as the reality was. I think it did. </div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
<strong>Hope you have a lovely week.</strong> <span style="color: red;"><strong>:<)</strong></span></div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
And hope to see some of you over at <strong><a href="http://onesingleimpression.blogspot.ca/2012/06/prompt-226-crystal.html">One Single Impression</a></strong> too. </div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
The prompt this week is: crystal. My suggestion, so I will definitely be there LOL.</div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
</div>Geraldinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01541033372574718987noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5684485886060350181.post-45248952318850098272012-06-17T09:16:00.001-07:002012-06-17T17:54:35.285-07:00It's a Sunny Sunday!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xwsndgNinWY/T94CDvIs7FI/AAAAAAAAAjU/rFoXDAizu1I/s1600/sunny+week+wish.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xwsndgNinWY/T94CDvIs7FI/AAAAAAAAAjU/rFoXDAizu1I/s640/sunny+week+wish.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
<strong><span style="color: #274e13;">It's a sunny day, here in Interior BC. I hope it lasts. </span></strong></div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
<strong><span style="color: #274e13;">What a treat to see the clouds roll away....</span></strong></div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
<strong><span style="color: #f1c232;"> Happy Summer Solstice too! </span></strong><strong><span style="color: red;">:<(</span></strong></div>
</div>Geraldinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01541033372574718987noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5684485886060350181.post-49660311032214930472012-06-14T09:57:00.001-07:002012-06-14T10:01:08.579-07:00A Cool Summer Haiku!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y8SnB5pforc/T9oW7DmnrgI/AAAAAAAAAjI/10UtGZQ4Dm8/s1600/cool+water+haiku.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y8SnB5pforc/T9oW7DmnrgI/AAAAAAAAAjI/10UtGZQ4Dm8/s640/cool+water+haiku.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
<strong><span style="color: #0b5394;">This is especially for those of you who are enduring hot, summer weather right now.</span></strong> </div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
A haiku/haiga that's been getting quite a few page views in recent days, over at <strong><a href="http://mypoeticpath.wordpress.com/">My Poetic Path</a></strong>. I hope it helps to bring <strong>cooling thoughts</strong> to mind.</div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
Here in Interior BC it's far from hot. I'm still wearing a sweater this morning. But I have lots on the go so the weather is not a distraction like it would be, if it was a perfect, sunny day. LOL</div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
<strong><span style="color: #0b5394;">Happy Thursday.</span> <span style="color: red;">:<)</span></strong></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
</div>Geraldinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01541033372574718987noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5684485886060350181.post-54688506516084721882012-06-09T09:36:00.001-07:002012-06-11T16:57:23.329-07:00BRRRRR.....Baby, It's Cold Outside!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The forecast for<strong> Interior BC</strong> continues to be rain, rain and more rain.<br />
<br />
A predicted HIGH today of only 9C! BRRRRR....</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Wowsa. I'm no hot weather fan when it gets to the other end of extreme but I am getting tired of wearing sweaters in June. Speaking of sweaters, I haven't even bothered to take my summer clothes out for this year. If this keeps up, I probably won't have to.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><strong>What's your weather been like?</strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Oh well, a good weekend to stay indoors and get lots of things done online and in the kitchen, etc...and I've got plenty of projects I'm working on!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="color: red;">Happy Weekend, whatever your weather brings. :<)</span></strong><br />
<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="color: red;">PS: Monday June 11th. Happened to notice <a href="http://www.theweathernetwork.com/news/storm_watch_stories3&stormfile=Record_snowfall_in_Gillam__Manitoba_11_06_2012&ref=wxnetapptopstory1V5&var1=536870912">this video</a> on the Weather Network. SNOW in Manitoba!!! I'm wondering if that's headed this way too. Weird weather indeed. </span></strong></div>
</div>Geraldinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01541033372574718987noreply@blogger.com8