Our Lady Head Vase Collection Re re-visited!

Good Morning, or whatever is the best greeting to you, in your part of the world!

A good friend of mine has asked me to take some photos of our 'Ladies'. I have attempted to do so again! Fourteen pics in fact! LOL! Apart from me still learning the 'digital camera ropes', there is a glare that is not easily hidden; due to the light via the skylight, the windows, even with the window blinds closed. However, this should give you an idea of the 'Ladies'.

Am thinking that it is 'time' for me to 'let them go'; and may they find a wonderful home with someone(s) passionately likeminded! Am going to be offering them from our home, at 'doable' prices (for me and for the buyer(s)); and methinks cash works the best. My thought is 'keeping things simple'; and creating fun and pleasant interacting experiences at the same time!

Also have interesting Ladies that are good for the 'starter' collector; and at the moment, they are in boxes and other shelves, as we do not have the room to display them! They also would make nice gifts! Also, methinks that our china and our silver pieces (won't get as tarnished as quickly) will look wonderful in our display cabinets. Time for a change! Eventhough it is hard to choose, as I love them all, I will keep a few 'favourites' for us to enjoy over the years. That works!

At the bittidz moment, equipped with my morning 'elixir of life' - coffee, I am 'posting' the 14 photos, as I am listening to 'Hour of Power' ONLINE, and WOW! www.hourofpower.org. Ron Blue (author of 'Surviving Financial Meltdowns') and John Maxwell, who has just published another awesome book,'Put Your Dream To The Test'. Will share some tidbitz thoughts later; however, it would be good for your spirits to tune into Dr. Robert Schuller, along with his inspiring guest speakers! Also to, 'Enjoying Everyday Life' (Joyce Meyer - www.joycemeyer.org); and 'Living Truth' (Charles Price - www.livingtruth.ca).

God Bless.

Our Lady Head Vase Collection Revisted!

Good Evening,

We are still in a state of disbelief and numb shock about the murder of our family friend. Police are not disclosing the cause of death, nor are they ruling out that it may have been a random killing.

As you can imagine, this horrific news has really 'knocked the wind out of our sails'; and we are 'standing by' for the news updates. Hope the individual(s) who committed this crime, are caught sooner rather than later.

Do not know if this in on a brighter bittidz note or not; however, came to the conclusion earlier this afternoon, that I will be offering our Lady Head Vase collection (save for a few absolute favourites) to preferably a buyer, who comes in and buys the 'whole nine yards' / 'lock, stock, and barrel!' He or she can enjoy them in their own collection, and / or sell them, or whatever they wish. And to think that my Dad back in 1991, said to me, those 'empty heads' would make good target practice! That was his Norsk sense of humour; should also add, that in his day, he was a master marksman. You can refer to my January 26th post, 'Our Lady Head Vase Collection' for tidbits and bittids about the 'Ladies'.

Just finished a delicious dinner of Italian Beef Tortelini (from Costco; they come in a package of three) and a healthy Casear salad. Melted butter (or margarine) and Parmesan cheese mixed in with the tortelini hit the spot; along with an appreciated glass of South African red wine.

Am just going to say Peace and 'Sweet Dreams', as I do not have a lot of tidbitz to share with you at the moment. Here is wishing you a nice R & R Saturday evening. As mentioned previously, I am looking forward to watching the Vision Channel tomorrow morning!

Good Night and God Bless.

Epifanies

Good Morning, or whatever is the best greeting to you, in your part of the world!

My apologies for not 'getting back' sooner. Since my last tidbit post, a lot has happened; and we have been on the go with our business, as well as dealing with some unexpected bittidz trying matters.

Also, a good family friend has been murdered; and we are in a dazed state of shock this morning.

Also, to receive the fullest beneficial knowledge, it is best for you to tune into 'Living Truth' (www.livingtruth.ca). Charles and Hilary Price are sharing their enlightening messages in Israel. ie. Last week, they were in Nazareth; and Hilary gave an awesome sermon (Part 2 out of 5 sessions; the first session being held on beautiful Mt. Nebo). Their wonderful insights about the Life of Jesus, is made even more 'real'; inasmuch as they are 'there', breathing and standing on Israeli soil! Jesus LIVES within us; however, with them 'there', it feels all that more 'special' methinks. As I mentioned in an earlier post, Alan and I would love to go on a 'spiritual' quest; as well as soaking up the histocical richness of Israel. A 'thank you' to 'Living Truth' for their illuminating teachings!

Tidbit - Enjoy and make the best of each day that you are given. You never know when your moment is up. We are totally without words for this unfeeling murderous act, that just took place.

Bittid - 'Seek and Ye Shall Find'. Always Rely on Him (not upon your own understandings); both in good and not so good times. He has a Purpose; eventhough it may not be understood at the time. 'Praise Him In All Things'. The test is to TRUST Him more than ever! Remember, when you are faced with challenges that appear insurmountable, be of extra good cheer, and have steadfast FAITH that He IS your Advocate, and will PROVIDE SOLUTION!

Have been reading and appreciating tidbitz solace from the Psalms; wow, David was quite the man!

Am looking forward to watching the 'Hour of Power', 'Enjoying Everyday Life', and 'Living Truth' tomorrow on the Vision Channel. No bittid doubt, there will be some reflective epifanies.

God Bless.

Refreshing to one's thoughts?

Good Morning, or whatever is the best greeting to you, in your part of the world!

My apologies for not writing 'tidbit' posts for March 31st and April 1st. We have been 'on the go' with our business, as well as attending to other bittid matters that have arisen unexpectedly. ie. some 'brush fires'. Naturally, at the end of the day, we were more than thankful to see our beds!

To recap a bit. My son came over for dinner Tuesday evening; and it was great to see him. A nice cheery visit! He had just returned from breathtaking New Zealand, and he gave us some lovely gifts. ie for Alan - a 'New Zealand' pocket knife, with neat 'gadgets'; including a plastic toothpick! I was given a gorgeous necklace and earrings made from Paua ('the world's most beautiful shell'); which is very similar to abalone colours. My son thought the stunning 'turquoise' colour would match my eyes! My son also took many magnificent photos and he hooked up our DVD; and what a tidbitz treat to see the wonderful pictures, as if we were there! Small wonder the movie, 'The Lord of the Rings' was filmed in that spectacular part of the world! We also saw shots of my son 'bungee jumping'; save that he had the nerve to do three different jumps! You would not ever see me doing that, I can assure you! LOL!

We also went to Costco yesterday afternoon; and once again, our calculator (a large one, thus very easy on the eyes! LOL!) was very helpful in steering us to 'stay on budget'. We did add a few bittidz goodies; however, we shopped well and frugally for the month. Our favourite Nursery / Produce Farm is opening up this weekend; which means we will drive the extra mile to this wonderful location! The produce and flowers are outstanding, as are the prices, as well as the family who own this thriving business. We have enjoyed going there for five years; and we have always been Blessed by their excellent service and genuine friendship!

Have to go for now; however, will be back later! Want to share this tidbit, that I received from a good friend of ours today. Thought it might add a bittid of levity; although, it is not really a laughing matter; yet, it does promote some thought!

Message:

"If you had purchased $1000 of shares in Delta Airlines
> one year ago, you will have $49.00 today.
> If you had purchased $1000 of shares in AIG
> one year ago, you will have $33.00 today.
> If you had purchased $1000 of shares in Lehman Brothers
> one year ago, you will have $0.00 today.
> But---- if you had purchased $1000 worth of beer
> one year ago, drank all the beer,
> then turned in the aluminum cans for recycling refund,
> you will have received $214.00.
>
> Based on the above, the best current investment plan
> is to drink heavily & recycle.
> It's called the 401-Keg."

Love the above photo of our 'inquisitive' Blue Heeler, Blue. As per an earlier post, took this picture after his bath; and what a refreshing 'ready to go for it' difference - to him and to us! LOL! I like Blue's facial expression; perhaps he is suggesting, 'Let's go have that beer!'

God Bless.

'Lost and now found'

Good Evening,

You would not think that it is 'spring' outdoors; as it has been a very dark rainy day. Eventhough it has been a quiet day, we have managed to attend to some bittidz matters; which will be mushrooming over til tomorrow.

Alan has created another wonderful tidbitz soup! For those of you, who like tomato soup, here goes! It has been simmering on our stove and it smells delicious! Perfect for a miserable night like tonight!

Alan's Tomato Soup! Tasty and Economical Too!

2 tins of tomato soup, plus 2 tins water
1 large can of diced tomatoes, with juice
1 cup of chopped up celery
1 TBSP diced onion
1/2 tsp garlic
1/2 tsp rosemary
1/2 tsp sage
pinch of Bouguet Garni (mixture of herbs - rosemary, sage, oregano, chervil, thyme, sweet basil, that type of thing)
dash of salt & pepper

We had some Campbell Soups in our cupboard, and this is a great way of using up left over or older veggies. ie celery, onion, whatever. I prefer the seasoning salt, as methinks, it is healthier for one's bit intake, than regular table salt. Also, you can add more water, if you wish.

Looking forward too, to the tid season, when we will be savouring our own fresh grown herbs and bit cherry tomatoes from our patio garden produce! Love the above photo image!

I checked into 'Hour of Power' website a short time ago! John Maxwell and Michael Franzese were Dr. Robert Schuller's guests. Their stories were enlightening! John C. Maxwell just published another one of his inspirational books, 'The Dream Journey of Joseph 1 - How to Go from a Believer to a Buyer'. Those of you who have dreams, this is an excellent and empowering resource!

Michael Franzese also gave a illuminating message; and his book ' I'll Make You an Offer You Can't Refuse' tells about his life and how he discovered Jesus Christ. Here is a bittid of background. "Michael Franzese (MF) was once the target of multiple city, state and federal law enforcement agencies. He was the mafia's youngest and most financially powerful new superstars - the son of legendary Colombo family underboss John "Sonny" Franzese. His criminal empire earned six to eight million dollars a week, making him one of the biggest money earners for organized crime since Al Capone. Today, Michael is a changed man and is using his life lessons to help others. He has a new book entitled, I'll Make You an Offer You Can't Refuse."

I heard him speak and here is his reply of encouragement, to Dr. Schuller's closing question.

RHS: "And look at those people. If you have one or two things to say to them, I would like to hear you say 'let me tell you something.'"

MF: "Let me tell you this: for those people out there, I know everybody's struggling with something. And I always tell people no matter how far you think you've fallen away from the Lord, no matter how bad you think your life was and how unworthy you might be, that the ground at the foot of the cross certainly is level and if God can save and use somebody like me, then there's certainly hope for anyone out there. And I encourage everybody to just make Jesus your best friend and you've got it made."

Tidbit - Michael Franzese was 'FOUND'; and GOOD on him and for the awesome changes he has made in his life; and for all those he has empowered to do the same! Remember the Biblical story about the one 'lost sheep?' ie There were 100 sheep; 99 were 'saved'; and one was 'lost'. God went to find the one that was lost; to make it 'found' The Lord comes for the 'lost'. (ie. For the downtrodden, the weak, the poor in spirit etc; as opposed for the healthy, the saved etc). However, Jesus Christ wants us all 'to be found'; so that we can be in His Kingdom.

Bittid - Appreciate listening / reading the experiences / stories of others. More often than not, there is always something positive to learn! In this regard, both John Maxwell and Michael Franzese have / are wonderfully impacting many people, with their steadfast FAITH in Jesus Christ.

Here is the website for the 'Hour of Power' - www.hourofpower.org. for pursuit of knowledge; ie 'Seek and Ye Shall Find'.

Am now going to enjoy 'Alan's Tomato Soup'; along with some 'croutons' (Costco herb seasoned ones) thrown on top, as a tid garnish.

Good Night and God Bless.

A 'spring' in your step!

Good Morning, or whatever is the best greeting to you, in your part of the world!

Love this time of year; the freshness and newness of all that arrives with the season of Spring! Was up really early this am; and it was / is so peaceful; no sounds, no distractions etc. Also, whilst 'opening up the house', I 'Praised Him In ALL Things', as well as Asking Him to 'touch the hearts of all those whom we have been in contact with', and that we are anticipating 'good things' today! Plus, we have 'thrown everything' upon Him; as we are in His Hands.

Having just said this, I feel as if I am 'gliding' around our house on 'cloud nine'. We have a full day ahead of us; and methinks we (as per usual) will do our best to handle (with His Guidance) everything in stride. It is now just a matter of confirmation; and we simply have to 'wait' in these regards.

Also, am looking forward to enjoying fresh daffodils (and tulips) in our tid silver (freshly polished!) vase; as it will not be long, til we can pick them!

Last night, watched the movie, 'Saving Private Ryan'; and what a realistic depiction of how it must have been in those war torn days. I appreciate the movie more, having now seen it for the second time; many insights.

Have yet to listen / watch online to 'Hour of Power' (with Dr. Robert Schuller at www.hourofpower.org); however, I will before too long; and will share those tidbit thoughts re: 'Hour of Power', as well as 'Living Truth' (with Charles and Hilary Price at www.livingtruth.ca)within the next few days.

This morning will offer some bittid epifanies re: 'Enjoying Everyday Life' (with Joyce Meyer at www.joycemeyer.org); although, for you to gain the utmost knowledge and 'peace of mind' (and heart), it is still better if you (and / or others that you know of, who would appreciate a bit of encouragement from her teachings) tune into her website, or T.V. program, or via radio, for her insights and resources.

Joyce opens with, that we basically need to have more Joy (in the Lord) and LAUGH more! She makes mention again about the Biblical passage of John 5: 1-9. (You can refer to my March 28th post of 'Saturday reflections', as a bit of background). Joyce's comment: "Soul sickness is worse than physical sickness" is so true.

Personally, there are many people I know who are 'afflicted' with this issue; and unfortunately, they have 'become even more sour', with each passing year. I need say no more; save that in reality, they are hurting themselves more than us. Be it jealousy, pettiness, anger, being indignant, whatever....I know of what Joyce speaks and I heartily agree with her! In the past, I have 'tried' to 'help' some of them; however, I only 'enabled' and aggravated them all the more! When I finally and 'gently spoke up'; the epifany - that 'you can take a horse to water, but you can not make it drink'. (It has to choose to drink of its own accord, methinks). The sad thing is, those people are 'still the same', 'same old'; and RESISTANT to CHANGE; and that everything is "just 'fine', thank you". (Also, according to them, we have 'changed'; thus we are to 'blame'). Sound familiar to some of you? ie. if you have encountered jealousy, indignance, anger, pettiness, whatever....

Joyce says / sums it up best. ie. "A lot of times we are looking for somebody" (to fix our problems), "but not for God" to Help us. "Self pity is destructive". 'What about me? what about me?' limits / blinds us to our possibilities for the future; because we are so focused on 'what about me?'. Never thought about it; however, Joyce suggests that perhaps some of us may be 'offended or miffed by God' because of our troubling situations or lacking Purpose etc. She expresses simply: "Be a Witness for Jesus" (as to living your life His way). Also, here are some more Biblical passages to refer to: Matthew 11: 1 - 4; and 2 Kings 7: 3. I read a tidbitz more verses; and Joyce adds, 'Take a chance and do not be afraid! Rise up and take some action! Faith is active'. Her DVD - 'You've Got what it takes'; and her book, 'Are you ready for a change?' methinks are wonderful resources / gifts!

Tidbit - Do your best to have a daily 'spring in your step'. (You can refer to 'Fresh face, fresh cheer, and fresh courage!' March 29th post).

Bittid - 'Seek and Ye Shall Find'.

Love the above photo image of the daffodils and the empowering message.

Need to tackle some bittidz. Hope you enjoy some Blessings today!

God Bless.

Peace and God Bless

Good Evening,

Thought I was going to do some 'reading'; well, instead, I ended up paying a tidbit visit to the Tony Gazelle Exercise Machine; and did a 15 minute beneficial 'walkathon'. For those with achey joints / bones etc, this machine is wonderfully gentle and safe on the muscles / limbs. (Have written a post or two, on this wonderful machine!). Going for the long walk with Blue earlier in the afternoon, was so invigorating, that I did not feel like sitting down, even for a 'reading' bittidz. Hence the 'indoor walk'; along with the view of our large Scotch Pine Tree, and watching some world news on the T.V. Methinks, by getting into this daily 'walkathon' habit, this machine will increase tone and fitness.

Also, our neighbour, Maureen is recooperating; however, she has to 'take it slow'. I asked her if she was able to eat 'normal' food again; as in Alan's homemade soups. The only two things she has to watch, is the fat and salt intake. I suggested to Alan that when he creates his next 'soup batch', that he put aside a tidbitz of soup (in a freezer proof container), unsalted for Maureen. Then he can carry on and add his own special seasonings for our use.

The hockey game between the Chicago Blackhawks and the Canucks just finished; and am thankful that everyone as a team, contributed their efforts together, for their successful win. Also, we enjoyed prawns from Costco, and a delicious Caesar salad. We are economizing and 'stretching our meals'; hence no wine for the time being; which is fine. We are enjoying magnificent ice water instead! Will still say 'Skal' or 'Cheers!'

This has been a really nice weekend for us. We feel Blessed with the quiet time and recharging rest we have been 'given'; and we are 'ready' for the week's events.

Tidbit - 'Enjoy the journey', and when you feel a peace 'within' (the Holy Spirit), things become a lot more clear and calm to you. Also,'step back' from anything that is overwhelming, and simply 'leave it all to Him' to carry all your burdens and RELY upon Him. When you Ask Him to do that, it is amazing what transpires. It is as if a huge load has been taken off your shoulders, and / or a major weight has been lifted from your heart.

Bittid - One of the most difficult things to do, is to 'wait'; and also to wait with 'patience', for Him to Provide Solution. It is a matter of Hope, Faith, and Trust in Him.

We are about to watch a bittid movie or two; and am grateful, we have a T.V. in our bedroom. Love the above photo image; that is Alan and I tonight!

Since tomorrow comes quickly, am going to say Peace and Good Night.

God Bless.