It's good to be back on the blog. As many of you know, we were away in California, visiting my mother-in-law who we thought was dying. When we got there, she did look terrible, not eating, sleeping, and having jerking movements from time to time, speaking irrationally on occasion. For two days we were all very sullen, expecting the worse. Then miraculously the third day she wakes up and says, "I'm hungry, where are we going for breakfast." After we picked ourselves up off the floor happily, we all ate a hearty breakfast, she of course ate more than us. She continues to get better as I write.
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While in California, we didn't do much except cook, read, and spend time with the family. Joyce, Russell's sister wanted to watch a movie one night and we decided upon "Chocolat" I love that movie. So to put ourselves in the mood, I thought it would be great to make hot chocolate the way it was made in the movie, and sip it ever so romantically, as we eagerly watch the movie.
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So-be-it, I anxiously looked on line for the receipe. I found it. It's called "Mayan Hot Chocloate. " The drink is as close as can be with the modern ingredients to the Mayan drink from the movie. It will cure anything from PMS to heart disease to a broken heart, so they say. Why don't you rent the movie and try it yourself. It's wonderful. Here's the recipe.
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Mayan Hot Chocolate
1 chile pepper, cut in half, seeds removed
5 cups light cream, or whole milk or nonfat milk
1 vanilla bean, split lenghtwise
1 to 2 cinnamon sticks
8 ounces bittersweet chocolate, or 3 tablets
Mexican chocolate, cut into 2-inch pieces
2 tablespoons granulated sugar or honey or to taste
1 tablespoon almonds or hazelnuts, ground extra fine
Add chile pepper to 2 cups boiling water. Cook until liquid is reduced to 1 cup. Remove chile pepper; strain for stray seeds, and set aside.
In a medium-size saucepan, combine cream or milk, vanilla bean(vanilla bean should be split in half length wise and the tiny seeds scraped out) and cinnamon stick. Heat over medium flame until bubbles appear around the edge. Reduce heat to low; add chocolate and sugar or honey; whisk occasionally until chocolate is melted and sugar dissolves.
Turn off heat; remove vanilla bean and cinnamon stick, stir in ground almonds or hazelnuts. Add chile pepper infusion a little at a time making sure the flavor isn't too strong. If chocolate is too thick, thin with a little more milk. Enjoy!
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I had to go on a search in the supermaket for all the ingredients. It was at that time I discovered the tremendously expensive cost of vanilla beans. Did you know they were so expensive? Why are vanilla beans so expensive? For just two bean pods it can range from $12-15 dollars. And so my dear friends as the crow flies, I found out why. That will be the subject of my next blog.
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This blog has been especially written for "The Crow", or affectionately known as "Old Crow" Now you must keep up with the blog Crow, cause The Raven is back!!!
This is Raven-as the crow flies
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Thursday, April 1, 2010
April - A New Month Begins
April 1st to blog I must
Whether it's little, or
Whether it's much
Could be silly
Could be wise
Always truthful
Never lies
North or South
East or West
As the crow flies
I'll do my best!
April. The derivation of the name (Latin Aprilis) is uncertain. The traditional etymology is from the Latin aperire, "to open," in allusion to its being the season when trees and flowers begin to "open," which is supported by comparison with the modern Greek use of opening for spring.
-
Since most of the Roman months were named in honor of divinities, and as April was sacred to Venus, the Festum Beneris et Fortunae Virlis being held on the first day, it has been suggested that Aprilis was originally her month Aphrilis, from her Greek name Aphrodite, or from the Etuscan name Apru. Jacob Grimm suggest the name of a hypothetical god or hero, Aper or Aprus.
-
Again we see the influence of the ruler of this world in giving honor to pagan deities. May we continue to show honor to Jehovah the God of truth, by sanctifying his name.
-
Something interesting about April is that it starts on the same day of the week as July in all years, and January in leap years.
-
Have you ever wondered how April Fools Day originated, here is some interesting thoughts.
-
No one really knows when this custom began but it has been kept for hundreds of years.
-
The First of April some do say
Is set apart for All Fools Day;
But why the people call it so,
Not I, nor they themselves do know.
-
Unlike most of the other non-foolish holidays, the history of April Fool's Day, sometimes called All Fool's Day, is not totally clear. There really wasn't a "first April Fool's Day" that can be pinpointed on the calendar. Some believe it sort of evolved simultaneously in several cultures at the same time, from celebrations involving the first day of spring.
-
Change of Calendars
-
One Theory is that the modern holiday was first celebrated soon after the adoption of the Gregorian calendar; the term referred to someone still adhering to the Julian calendar, which it replaced.
-
The closest point in time that can be identified as the beginning of this tradition was in 1582, in France. Prior to that year, the new year was celebrated for eight days, beginning on March 25. The celebration culminated on April 1. With the reform of the calendar under Charles IX, the Gregorian calendar was introduced, and New Year's Day was moved to January 1.
-
However, communications being what they were in the days when news traveled by foot, many people did not receive the news for several years. Others, the more obstinate crowd, refused to accept the new calendar and continued to celebrate the new year on April 1. These backward folk were labeled as "fools" by the general populace. They were subject to some ridicule, and were often sent on "fools errands" or were made the butt of other practical jokes.
-
Britain didn't accept the new calendar until 1752.
-
In the eighteenth century the festival was often posited as going back to the time of Noah. According to an English newspaper article published April 13, 1789, the day had its origin when Noah sent his dove off too early, before the waters had receded; he did this on the first day of the Hebrew month that corresponds with April, this seems to be a popular Jewish custom for making "fools" on the First of April.
-
In the Babylonian and Assyrian Empires, the King would often be spanked by the High priest to remind him of how much of a fool he was in comparison to the gods.
-
This harassment evolved, over time, into a tradition of prank-playing on the first day of April. The tradition eventually spread to England and Scotland in the eighteenth century. It was later introduced to the American colonies of both the English and French. April Fool's Day thus developed into an international fun fest, so to speak, with different nationalities specializing in their own brand of humor at the expense of their friends and families.
-
In Scotland, for example, April Fool's Day is actually celebrated for two days. The second day is devoted to pranks involving the posterior region of the body. It is called Taily Day. The origin of the "kick me" sign can be traced to this observance.
-
Mexico's counterpart of April Fool's Day is actually observed on December 28. Originally, the day was a sad remembrance of the slaughter of the innocent children by King Herod. It eventually evolved into a lighter commemoration involving pranks and trickery.
-
Pranks performed on April Fool's Day range from the simple, (such as saying, "Your shoe's untied!), to the elaborate. Setting a roommate's alarm clock back an hour is a common gag. Whatever the prank, the trickster usually ends it by yelling to his victim, "April Fool!"
-
April Fool's Day is a "for-fun-only" observance. Nobody is expected to buy gifts or to take their "significant other" out to eat in a fancy restaurant. Nobody gets off work or school. It's simply a fun little holiday, but a holiday on which one must remain forever vigilant, for he may be the next April Fool!
-
As you can see from this blog there are many different ideas and customs as to the origin of this day. I wanted to see what information there was in the Watchtower on this day, but they only had one reference dated March 22, 1947 Awake: page 27-28. I don't have it. Does anyone have it? I'd love to see it. Let me know.
-
I will end this blog with Sara Coleridge "The Months" poem for April.
-
"April brings the primrose sweet.
Scatters daisies at our feet! "
This is Raven - As the crow flies
Whether it's little, or
Whether it's much
Could be silly
Could be wise
Always truthful
Never lies
North or South
East or West
As the crow flies
I'll do my best!
April. The derivation of the name (Latin Aprilis) is uncertain. The traditional etymology is from the Latin aperire, "to open," in allusion to its being the season when trees and flowers begin to "open," which is supported by comparison with the modern Greek use of opening for spring.
-
Since most of the Roman months were named in honor of divinities, and as April was sacred to Venus, the Festum Beneris et Fortunae Virlis being held on the first day, it has been suggested that Aprilis was originally her month Aphrilis, from her Greek name Aphrodite, or from the Etuscan name Apru. Jacob Grimm suggest the name of a hypothetical god or hero, Aper or Aprus.
-
Again we see the influence of the ruler of this world in giving honor to pagan deities. May we continue to show honor to Jehovah the God of truth, by sanctifying his name.
-
Something interesting about April is that it starts on the same day of the week as July in all years, and January in leap years.
-
Have you ever wondered how April Fools Day originated, here is some interesting thoughts.
-
No one really knows when this custom began but it has been kept for hundreds of years.
-
The First of April some do say
Is set apart for All Fools Day;
But why the people call it so,
Not I, nor they themselves do know.
-
Unlike most of the other non-foolish holidays, the history of April Fool's Day, sometimes called All Fool's Day, is not totally clear. There really wasn't a "first April Fool's Day" that can be pinpointed on the calendar. Some believe it sort of evolved simultaneously in several cultures at the same time, from celebrations involving the first day of spring.
-
Change of Calendars
-
One Theory is that the modern holiday was first celebrated soon after the adoption of the Gregorian calendar; the term referred to someone still adhering to the Julian calendar, which it replaced.
-
The closest point in time that can be identified as the beginning of this tradition was in 1582, in France. Prior to that year, the new year was celebrated for eight days, beginning on March 25. The celebration culminated on April 1. With the reform of the calendar under Charles IX, the Gregorian calendar was introduced, and New Year's Day was moved to January 1.
-
However, communications being what they were in the days when news traveled by foot, many people did not receive the news for several years. Others, the more obstinate crowd, refused to accept the new calendar and continued to celebrate the new year on April 1. These backward folk were labeled as "fools" by the general populace. They were subject to some ridicule, and were often sent on "fools errands" or were made the butt of other practical jokes.
-
Britain didn't accept the new calendar until 1752.
-
In the eighteenth century the festival was often posited as going back to the time of Noah. According to an English newspaper article published April 13, 1789, the day had its origin when Noah sent his dove off too early, before the waters had receded; he did this on the first day of the Hebrew month that corresponds with April, this seems to be a popular Jewish custom for making "fools" on the First of April.
-
In the Babylonian and Assyrian Empires, the King would often be spanked by the High priest to remind him of how much of a fool he was in comparison to the gods.
-
This harassment evolved, over time, into a tradition of prank-playing on the first day of April. The tradition eventually spread to England and Scotland in the eighteenth century. It was later introduced to the American colonies of both the English and French. April Fool's Day thus developed into an international fun fest, so to speak, with different nationalities specializing in their own brand of humor at the expense of their friends and families.
-
In Scotland, for example, April Fool's Day is actually celebrated for two days. The second day is devoted to pranks involving the posterior region of the body. It is called Taily Day. The origin of the "kick me" sign can be traced to this observance.
-
Mexico's counterpart of April Fool's Day is actually observed on December 28. Originally, the day was a sad remembrance of the slaughter of the innocent children by King Herod. It eventually evolved into a lighter commemoration involving pranks and trickery.
-
Pranks performed on April Fool's Day range from the simple, (such as saying, "Your shoe's untied!), to the elaborate. Setting a roommate's alarm clock back an hour is a common gag. Whatever the prank, the trickster usually ends it by yelling to his victim, "April Fool!"
-
April Fool's Day is a "for-fun-only" observance. Nobody is expected to buy gifts or to take their "significant other" out to eat in a fancy restaurant. Nobody gets off work or school. It's simply a fun little holiday, but a holiday on which one must remain forever vigilant, for he may be the next April Fool!
-
As you can see from this blog there are many different ideas and customs as to the origin of this day. I wanted to see what information there was in the Watchtower on this day, but they only had one reference dated March 22, 1947 Awake: page 27-28. I don't have it. Does anyone have it? I'd love to see it. Let me know.
-
I will end this blog with Sara Coleridge "The Months" poem for April.
-
"April brings the primrose sweet.
Scatters daisies at our feet! "
This is Raven - As the crow flies
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
The Memorial - March 30, 2010
How grateful we are to have been able to attend the memorial of Jesus' death once again. To be there physically and spiritually with all our brothers around the world, in obedience to Jesus simple command, "keep doing this in remembrance of me" (Luke 22:19) was truly a privilege and an important responsibility. Being there was one way to demonstrate our deep love and appreciation to Jehovah the provider of this "indescribable free gift," (2 Corinthians 9:15) and to Jesus who willingly suffered a painful, ignominious, death out of love for his father, and love for us. This great act not only strenghtens our love for them, but in encourages us to follow their example in showing love to one another.
-
It was encouraging to know that there were 195 in attendance at our hall, and it was exciting to meet new ones there for the first time. Can't wait to hear the worldwide attendance.
-
I thought I would add to this blog some interesting history of past memorial celebrations. It's taken from our "Proclaimers of God's Kingdom", publication, which you can read in detail on page 242.
-
Commemoration of the Lord’s Death
-
According to the information there, the brothers first met in about 1876 to celebrate the memorial of Jesus' death. The first group in Pittsburg Pennyslyvania and vicinity met in the home of one of the friends. Then by 1883 the attendance grew to about a 100, and so they rented a hall to be used. Then in 1905, the brothers secured the use of Carnegie Hall.
-
Even though many Bible students met for this commemoration in groups of varying sizes in many places, any who could join the brothers in Pittsburg were welcomed. The readers of the Watch Tower, from 1886 to 1893 were invited to come to Pittsburg if possible, and they did from various parts of the United States, and from Canada. This helped them to celebrate the memorial together, as well as cement ties of spiritual unity. However, as the numbers grew, it was no longer practical to meet in one location. More good would be accomplished by assembling with fellow believers in the area closet to one's home.
-
The Watch Tower, ponited out, there were many who professed to be bleievers in the ransom, and none of these were turned away, however the occasion had special significance to those who truly belonged to Christ's little flock.
-
It was in the beginning of the 1930's, that prospective members of the "great Multitude," or Great crowd" of other sheep, began to be manifested. They were then known as Jonadabs. In the February 15, 1938 issue of the Watchtower, for the first time, the "Jonadabs " were specifically invited to be present at the memorial, saying: "After six p.m. on April 15 let each company of the anointed assemble and celebrate the Memorial, their companions the Jonadabs also being present." Attend they did, not as partakers but observers.
-
In 1938 the total attendance was 73,420, while those who partook of of the emblems totaled 39,225. In the years to follow, in addition to the annointed and other sheep in attendance, a large number of newly interested persons and others who had not yet become active Witnesses of Jehovah, were present; and so in 1992 the peak number of those sharing in the ministry was 4,472,787 and the attendance at the Memorial was 11,431,171, and those that partook of the emblems was 8,683.
-
In the "Proclaimers" book, it highlighted those who because of their deep regard for the significance of Jesus' death commemorate the Memorial even when confronted by very difficult circumstances. This is a good example for all of us to follow in case we find ourselves in such circumstances.
-
For example, during the 1970's, when wartime curfews in Rhodesia (now known as Zimbabwe) made it impossible to go out in the evening, the brothers in some areas would all gather in the home of one of Jehovah's Witnesses during the day and celebrate the Memorial in the evening. They could not return home after the meeting, so they would stay overnight. That certainly demonstrated a lot of love on the part of the host who's home they were in. The remaining evening hours were used to sing Kingdom songs and relate experiences, which was a source of added refreshment. We need to get together to practice our new songs, so we can get to know them better and remember them in case we have to meet together in small groups, and have no music.
-
During World War II, in the concentration camps, the Memorial was celebrated , even though doing so could have resulted in severe punishment if the guards found out.
-
Something I found touching was the experience of Brother King who was isolated in prison in Communist China from 1958 to1963. He would celebrate the Memorial the best way he could under the circumstances. He later said: "From my prison window I watched the moon grow full near the start of spring. I calculated as carefully as I could, the date for the celebration." He improvised the needed emblems, making a little wine from black currants and using rice, which is unleavened, for the bread. He also said: "I sang and prayed and gave a regular talk for the occasion, just as would be done in any congreagation of Jehovah's people. So I felt that each year I was united with my brothers all over the world on this most important occasion."
-
What a great example he and others set to show the importance of this sacred day. Didn't you feel united with all our brothers and sisters worldwide by being in attendance last night? That is another benefit to our being there. Also, perhaps there were some like Brother King, who could not be physically present, but certainly were there in spirit, having a prayerful attitude on this important occasion. You can be assured that Jehovah is aware of your having been there, physically or in spirit.
-
-
In our 2009 Service Year Report, we had a total of 7,313,173 peak publishers. There were 18,168,323 memorial attenders, and 10,857 partakers. It will be interesting to see the 2010 Service Year Report.
-
Please note this blog has been revised 3/31/2010.
-
This is Raven - As the crow flies!
-
It was encouraging to know that there were 195 in attendance at our hall, and it was exciting to meet new ones there for the first time. Can't wait to hear the worldwide attendance.
-
I thought I would add to this blog some interesting history of past memorial celebrations. It's taken from our "Proclaimers of God's Kingdom", publication, which you can read in detail on page 242.
-
Commemoration of the Lord’s Death
-
According to the information there, the brothers first met in about 1876 to celebrate the memorial of Jesus' death. The first group in Pittsburg Pennyslyvania and vicinity met in the home of one of the friends. Then by 1883 the attendance grew to about a 100, and so they rented a hall to be used. Then in 1905, the brothers secured the use of Carnegie Hall.
-
Even though many Bible students met for this commemoration in groups of varying sizes in many places, any who could join the brothers in Pittsburg were welcomed. The readers of the Watch Tower, from 1886 to 1893 were invited to come to Pittsburg if possible, and they did from various parts of the United States, and from Canada. This helped them to celebrate the memorial together, as well as cement ties of spiritual unity. However, as the numbers grew, it was no longer practical to meet in one location. More good would be accomplished by assembling with fellow believers in the area closet to one's home.
-
The Watch Tower, ponited out, there were many who professed to be bleievers in the ransom, and none of these were turned away, however the occasion had special significance to those who truly belonged to Christ's little flock.
-
It was in the beginning of the 1930's, that prospective members of the "great Multitude," or Great crowd" of other sheep, began to be manifested. They were then known as Jonadabs. In the February 15, 1938 issue of the Watchtower, for the first time, the "Jonadabs " were specifically invited to be present at the memorial, saying: "After six p.m. on April 15 let each company of the anointed assemble and celebrate the Memorial, their companions the Jonadabs also being present." Attend they did, not as partakers but observers.
-
In 1938 the total attendance was 73,420, while those who partook of of the emblems totaled 39,225. In the years to follow, in addition to the annointed and other sheep in attendance, a large number of newly interested persons and others who had not yet become active Witnesses of Jehovah, were present; and so in 1992 the peak number of those sharing in the ministry was 4,472,787 and the attendance at the Memorial was 11,431,171, and those that partook of the emblems was 8,683.
-
In the "Proclaimers" book, it highlighted those who because of their deep regard for the significance of Jesus' death commemorate the Memorial even when confronted by very difficult circumstances. This is a good example for all of us to follow in case we find ourselves in such circumstances.
-
For example, during the 1970's, when wartime curfews in Rhodesia (now known as Zimbabwe) made it impossible to go out in the evening, the brothers in some areas would all gather in the home of one of Jehovah's Witnesses during the day and celebrate the Memorial in the evening. They could not return home after the meeting, so they would stay overnight. That certainly demonstrated a lot of love on the part of the host who's home they were in. The remaining evening hours were used to sing Kingdom songs and relate experiences, which was a source of added refreshment. We need to get together to practice our new songs, so we can get to know them better and remember them in case we have to meet together in small groups, and have no music.
-
During World War II, in the concentration camps, the Memorial was celebrated , even though doing so could have resulted in severe punishment if the guards found out.
-
Something I found touching was the experience of Brother King who was isolated in prison in Communist China from 1958 to1963. He would celebrate the Memorial the best way he could under the circumstances. He later said: "From my prison window I watched the moon grow full near the start of spring. I calculated as carefully as I could, the date for the celebration." He improvised the needed emblems, making a little wine from black currants and using rice, which is unleavened, for the bread. He also said: "I sang and prayed and gave a regular talk for the occasion, just as would be done in any congreagation of Jehovah's people. So I felt that each year I was united with my brothers all over the world on this most important occasion."
-
What a great example he and others set to show the importance of this sacred day. Didn't you feel united with all our brothers and sisters worldwide by being in attendance last night? That is another benefit to our being there. Also, perhaps there were some like Brother King, who could not be physically present, but certainly were there in spirit, having a prayerful attitude on this important occasion. You can be assured that Jehovah is aware of your having been there, physically or in spirit.
-
-
In our 2009 Service Year Report, we had a total of 7,313,173 peak publishers. There were 18,168,323 memorial attenders, and 10,857 partakers. It will be interesting to see the 2010 Service Year Report.
-
Please note this blog has been revised 3/31/2010.
-
This is Raven - As the crow flies!
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Ahh!---Spring Is Here!---Achoo!
We've been waiting, and finally spring has sprung, and with it alot of fun! Things to do, places to see, and of course, -- allergies.
-
For me, and Russell, one of the fun things to do is to prepare and plant an organic vegetable garden. It is hard work, but if all goes well, we can reap rich rewards. It really is a miracle, the growth processes. It reminds me of the daily text we had on Saturday, March 13th. All the credit goes to Jehovah for any growth we have in a literal garden or in our spiritual garden, our disciple making work. Why? Because try as we may, none of us can fully understand the growth process, let alone control it. "I planted, Apollos watered, but God kept making it grow." 1Cor. 3:6. Solomon expressed the situation correctly when he wrote: "You do not know the work of the true God who does all things." Eccl.11:5
-
It will be a welcomed sight to behold the many varieties of trees and flowers blooming. Because of the handiwork of Jehovah, the earth will be a delightful garden of color and fragrances that lifts our spirits and glorifies him.
-
However, with this beautiful indication of spring comes the not so welcomed allergy season. Why? Pollen season is here and, according to Dr. Mark Schecker, it's causing runny noses, watery eyes and sneezing attacks for 25 to 35 percent of the population. He says the pollen season started early this year and it's not the yellow stuff that's driving people crazy, but the pollen you can't see. -- "What you don't realize is that the tree pollen that's been out is invisible. It's microscopic and it floats in the air, so you can't see it. And so a lot of people who have been suffering the past few weeks haven't realized that that's what's causing them problems."
-
Spring allergy season starts with tree pollen in late February. Dr. Schecker says it's the hardwood trees like oaks, elms and cedars that cause the most problems. Tree pollen eases off in mid-April, but then the grass picks up where the trees leave off and start creating pollen through June.
-
If you have pollen allergies, you know that some days are worse than others. Dr. Schecker says the weather plays a big role. "In general the worst days are sunny, dry windy days where pollen's really blowing all over the place. Better days are overcast or rainy days," Schecker said.
-
He says that pollen allergies go beyond sneezing and watery eyes and can lead to major health problems. "It can lead to chronic sinus problems. It can lead to chronic ear infections in children it can lead to asthma."
-
But whether it's the tree pollen or the grass pollen you're allergic to, Schecker says there are things you can do for relief. He suggests keeping the windows closed to keep the pollen out and says that air conditioners can help filter the pollen too. And, if that doesn't work there's also medicine.
-
And, as tempting as throwing open all the windows on a gorgeous spring day may be, don't! Other measures to keep outdoor elements outdoors include showering frequently, doing lots of laundry and wiping down the family pets when they come in.
-
Interestingly, what we can't see — the clear oak pollen — causes the most grief. The maddening yellow pine dust that coats everything is actually fairly benign stuff.
-
So, I hope this little bit of information will help all you allergy sufferers. If anyone else has a remedy that may be helpful, please share it.
-
-
-
For all our bird loving friends I found this "Bird Nesting Bag" that can easily be made, that may send out a cordial invitaion to our feathered friends, right in your own back yard. Hope you like the idea.
-
-
-
For me, and Russell, one of the fun things to do is to prepare and plant an organic vegetable garden. It is hard work, but if all goes well, we can reap rich rewards. It really is a miracle, the growth processes. It reminds me of the daily text we had on Saturday, March 13th. All the credit goes to Jehovah for any growth we have in a literal garden or in our spiritual garden, our disciple making work. Why? Because try as we may, none of us can fully understand the growth process, let alone control it. "I planted, Apollos watered, but God kept making it grow." 1Cor. 3:6. Solomon expressed the situation correctly when he wrote: "You do not know the work of the true God who does all things." Eccl.11:5
-
It will be a welcomed sight to behold the many varieties of trees and flowers blooming. Because of the handiwork of Jehovah, the earth will be a delightful garden of color and fragrances that lifts our spirits and glorifies him.
-
However, with this beautiful indication of spring comes the not so welcomed allergy season. Why? Pollen season is here and, according to Dr. Mark Schecker, it's causing runny noses, watery eyes and sneezing attacks for 25 to 35 percent of the population. He says the pollen season started early this year and it's not the yellow stuff that's driving people crazy, but the pollen you can't see. -- "What you don't realize is that the tree pollen that's been out is invisible. It's microscopic and it floats in the air, so you can't see it. And so a lot of people who have been suffering the past few weeks haven't realized that that's what's causing them problems."
-
Spring allergy season starts with tree pollen in late February. Dr. Schecker says it's the hardwood trees like oaks, elms and cedars that cause the most problems. Tree pollen eases off in mid-April, but then the grass picks up where the trees leave off and start creating pollen through June.
-
If you have pollen allergies, you know that some days are worse than others. Dr. Schecker says the weather plays a big role. "In general the worst days are sunny, dry windy days where pollen's really blowing all over the place. Better days are overcast or rainy days," Schecker said.
-
He says that pollen allergies go beyond sneezing and watery eyes and can lead to major health problems. "It can lead to chronic sinus problems. It can lead to chronic ear infections in children it can lead to asthma."
-
But whether it's the tree pollen or the grass pollen you're allergic to, Schecker says there are things you can do for relief. He suggests keeping the windows closed to keep the pollen out and says that air conditioners can help filter the pollen too. And, if that doesn't work there's also medicine.
-
And, as tempting as throwing open all the windows on a gorgeous spring day may be, don't! Other measures to keep outdoor elements outdoors include showering frequently, doing lots of laundry and wiping down the family pets when they come in.
-
Interestingly, what we can't see — the clear oak pollen — causes the most grief. The maddening yellow pine dust that coats everything is actually fairly benign stuff.
-
So, I hope this little bit of information will help all you allergy sufferers. If anyone else has a remedy that may be helpful, please share it.
-
-
-
For all our bird loving friends I found this "Bird Nesting Bag" that can easily be made, that may send out a cordial invitaion to our feathered friends, right in your own back yard. Hope you like the idea.
-
Bird Nesting Bag
-
-
-
Send out a cordial invitation to wildlife, and you won't have to travel far to discover the joys of the natural world. That's what Nicole Blum of North Hadley, Massachusetts, and her 7-year-old daughter did with this hanging gift for the birds.
-
Materials
· Onion bag
· Nesting materials such as raffia, nonmetallic ribbon, small sticks, and pet hair
Total Time Needed: 1 Hour
-
Instructions
1. Fill an onion bag with nesting materials, such as raffia, nonmetallic ribbon, small sticks, and pet hair.
2. Hang from a tree, then eagerly watch for the birds to begin construction.
-
Sounds like fun!
-
-
I will end this blog with a some springtime poetry.
-
"Spring is when you feel like whistling even with a shoe full of slush."- ( Doug Larson)
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"Ahh, the wide almond groves in full white flower
Stunning in the morning sun.
Old naked Winter in his garb of grays and browns has run.
Forsythia blooms come and go in the blink of a yellow Eye.
Then, suddenly, mysteriously, Green erupts; and we sigh."- ( Michael P. Garofalo)
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"First a howling blizzard woke us,Then the rain came down to soak us, And now before the eye can focus - Crocus."
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With much love,
-
This is Raven-As the crow flies
Send out a cordial invitation to wildlife, and you won't have to travel far to discover the joys of the natural world. That's what Nicole Blum of North Hadley, Massachusetts, and her 7-year-old daughter did with this hanging gift for the birds.
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Materials
· Onion bag
· Nesting materials such as raffia, nonmetallic ribbon, small sticks, and pet hair
Total Time Needed: 1 Hour
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Instructions
1. Fill an onion bag with nesting materials, such as raffia, nonmetallic ribbon, small sticks, and pet hair.
2. Hang from a tree, then eagerly watch for the birds to begin construction.
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Sounds like fun!
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I will end this blog with a some springtime poetry.
-
"Spring is when you feel like whistling even with a shoe full of slush."- ( Doug Larson)
-
"Ahh, the wide almond groves in full white flower
Stunning in the morning sun.
Old naked Winter in his garb of grays and browns has run.
Forsythia blooms come and go in the blink of a yellow Eye.
Then, suddenly, mysteriously, Green erupts; and we sigh."- ( Michael P. Garofalo)
-
"First a howling blizzard woke us,Then the rain came down to soak us, And now before the eye can focus - Crocus."
-
With much love,
-
This is Raven-As the crow flies
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Winter Ends - Spring Begins!
The Vernal Equinox (vernal denoting spring, and equinox meaning equal amounts of day and night) marks the change of season when winter changes into spring. This will occur at exactly 1:32 p.m. EDT Saturday, March 20, 2010.
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At that moment, the sun will cross precisely over the Earth's equator. There will be equal amounts of day and night on this day.
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The days will then grow longer each day, reaching their limit on the summer solstice, June 21. The days will then grow shorter, until the autumnal equinox on September 22 when there will again be equal parts of day and night.
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Equinoxes have been recognized for thousands of years. Easter, a pagan holiday, supposedly celebrating the resurrection of Jesus, in reality celebrating the return of spring, and "a great many pagan customs, the egg symbolizing the germinating life of early spring....The rabbit, a pagan symbol and emblem of fertility."-The Catholic Encyclopedia-(1910), Vol. VIII. p.828. Also, according to the book The Two Babylons, by Alexander Hislop, the name Easter itself is not a Christian name, but pagan, of Chaldean origin. "Easter is nothing else than Astarte, one of the titles of Beltis, the queen of heaven." Compare Jeremiah 7:18. Easter is always on the first Sunday after the first full moon after the spring equinox.
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I have more to say on this blog, but because of a lack of time, I must stop. To be continued!
-
I am back with more interesting tidbits.
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Legend has it that every year on this date, when the sun is directly over the earths equator and day and night have equal time, there is a special gravitational pull on the earth that allows us to balance raw eggs on end. The validity of this legend is up to speculation. If we think about this skeptically, why do we not hear of this odd abnormality in September when the autumn equinox occurs?
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According to about.com, this myth has officially been busted as research has found that standing an egg on it's end works equally well any day of the year no matter what day you attempt it. So for now, the 'yolks' on you.
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Personally, I have never tried standing a raw egg on it's end, have you? Would you like to try? Let me know what happens.
-
As the last day in remembrance of winter, and the first day of spring, I'd like to honor and support my blogging friends at http://www.birdingandbonding.com/ with this cute poem, that reminds me of their noble efforts in finding, seeing, feeding and blogging about these grand flying creatures which God created on the fifth day for His glorious purpose, our enjoyment, and to his glory. The name of this poem is "Guests," by Ruth B. Field.
-
-
At that moment, the sun will cross precisely over the Earth's equator. There will be equal amounts of day and night on this day.
-
The days will then grow longer each day, reaching their limit on the summer solstice, June 21. The days will then grow shorter, until the autumnal equinox on September 22 when there will again be equal parts of day and night.
-
Equinoxes have been recognized for thousands of years. Easter, a pagan holiday, supposedly celebrating the resurrection of Jesus, in reality celebrating the return of spring, and "a great many pagan customs, the egg symbolizing the germinating life of early spring....The rabbit, a pagan symbol and emblem of fertility."-The Catholic Encyclopedia-(1910), Vol. VIII. p.828. Also, according to the book The Two Babylons, by Alexander Hislop, the name Easter itself is not a Christian name, but pagan, of Chaldean origin. "Easter is nothing else than Astarte, one of the titles of Beltis, the queen of heaven." Compare Jeremiah 7:18. Easter is always on the first Sunday after the first full moon after the spring equinox.
-
I have more to say on this blog, but because of a lack of time, I must stop. To be continued!
-
I am back with more interesting tidbits.
-
Legend has it that every year on this date, when the sun is directly over the earths equator and day and night have equal time, there is a special gravitational pull on the earth that allows us to balance raw eggs on end. The validity of this legend is up to speculation. If we think about this skeptically, why do we not hear of this odd abnormality in September when the autumn equinox occurs?
-
According to about.com, this myth has officially been busted as research has found that standing an egg on it's end works equally well any day of the year no matter what day you attempt it. So for now, the 'yolks' on you.
-
Personally, I have never tried standing a raw egg on it's end, have you? Would you like to try? Let me know what happens.
-
As the last day in remembrance of winter, and the first day of spring, I'd like to honor and support my blogging friends at http://www.birdingandbonding.com/ with this cute poem, that reminds me of their noble efforts in finding, seeing, feeding and blogging about these grand flying creatures which God created on the fifth day for His glorious purpose, our enjoyment, and to his glory. The name of this poem is "Guests," by Ruth B. Field.
-
Guests
My little guests come winging near
And seem to know they need not fear,
They flit across the wintry sky
To perch and, with expectant eye,
They glance at me as if to say,
"What do we have to eat today?"
The starlings argue as they eat,
The sparrows skip on dainty feet,
Each little junco, sleek and fat,
Wears a dark hood and neat cravat.
Sometimes a friendly chickadee
Will tilt his head to speak to me.
The finch in rosy-purple vest,
The cardinal with his blazing crest,
And, swooping in his blue array,
Comes, lord of all the shrieking jay.
Small feathered guests, you're welcome here
So sing your little notes of cheer,
Accept my food, go on your way
To make more bright each wintry day.
-
My little guests come winging near
And seem to know they need not fear,
They flit across the wintry sky
To perch and, with expectant eye,
They glance at me as if to say,
"What do we have to eat today?"
The starlings argue as they eat,
The sparrows skip on dainty feet,
Each little junco, sleek and fat,
Wears a dark hood and neat cravat.
Sometimes a friendly chickadee
Will tilt his head to speak to me.
The finch in rosy-purple vest,
The cardinal with his blazing crest,
And, swooping in his blue array,
Comes, lord of all the shrieking jay.
Small feathered guests, you're welcome here
So sing your little notes of cheer,
Accept my food, go on your way
To make more bright each wintry day.
-
When you think of the variety of birds, and their sounds and created instinctive ablilities, Jehovah is awsome!!! A loving and wise creator, deserving of all our praise. Psalms 104:24, 25, 33, 34, 35.
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This is Raven-as the crow flies
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This is Raven-as the crow flies
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Bird Has Flown!
One of my feathered friends has flown south. Even though I have been very busy in the ministry, playing with the grandchildren, working in the house, there is an emptiness. I look at the blogging site of "Birds of a Feather," hoping to read another exciting adventure in bird watching, and much to my disappointment there is no blog. But, I know as sure as the sun rises each day, she will return like the dawning of spring and then there will be joy again!
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Talking about birds, I would like to share a thought provoking poem I read ( author unknown). It is an encouraging reminder to all of us who at times may become anxious over life's necessities. It underscores God's love and concern for people.
-
Said the sparrow to the robin:
"I should really like to know
Why these anxious human beings
Rush about and worry so."
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Said the robin to the sparrow:
"Friend, I think that it must be that they have no Heavenly Father
Such as cares for you and me!"
-
Of course Jesus said it first so well at Matthew 6:25,26; and Luke 12:6,7. May we always remember that, whenever we become anxious - "observe intently the birds of heaven."
-
This is Raven-as the crow flies!
-
Talking about birds, I would like to share a thought provoking poem I read ( author unknown). It is an encouraging reminder to all of us who at times may become anxious over life's necessities. It underscores God's love and concern for people.
-
Said the sparrow to the robin:
"I should really like to know
Why these anxious human beings
Rush about and worry so."
-
Said the robin to the sparrow:
"Friend, I think that it must be that they have no Heavenly Father
Such as cares for you and me!"
-
Of course Jesus said it first so well at Matthew 6:25,26; and Luke 12:6,7. May we always remember that, whenever we become anxious - "observe intently the birds of heaven."
-
This is Raven-as the crow flies!
Monday, March 1, 2010
March First! - As the crow flies!
It seems to me that it is important, and imperitive that I begin each first day of the month with a blog, no matter how trivial or momentous it may be. So here goes!
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The month of March, the third month of the year, got it's name from Mars, the Roman god of war. How discusting! Honoring a pagan god, and dishonoring Jehovah who gave us time, months, seasons, and years! This is another evidence of who really is the ruler of this wicked world.
-
This only encourages me even more to be zealous in proclaiming His name. Having a share in the sanctification of Jehovah's name and upholding his sovereignty is a grand privilege, a bright light in this very dark world.
-
March weather wise, brings breezes loud and shrill. Stirs the dancing daffodil. In like a lion out like a lamb, or in like a lamb out like a lion. March will be grand!
-
By the way, do you remember "The Months" by Sara Coleridge? A framed picture in Borders book store, that was hung in the bathroom that I wanted to get and they would not let me have it even after I offered to give them money? Well, it's no longer there!!! It's gone!
I wonder where it is. I am forever grateful for Sandy's help (my partner in crime), in getting a picture of it and printing me a copy. I have it framed, and the bold lettering in the above paragraph is the poem Sara Coleridge wrote for the month of March. Thanks Sandy, I love that picture!
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This first day of March was a good day in service. Being with my husband Russell was a treat. It was a beautiful day, and we met some nice people which was the icing on the cake.
-
I shall end this blog with an interesting poem by Henry David Thoreau (1817-1862). Journal, 23 August 1853:
-
"Live in each season as it passes; breathe the air, drink the drink, taste the fruit and resign yourself to the influences of each.
Some men think that they are not well in spring, or summer, or autumn, or winter; It is only because they are not well in them".
-
Enjoy each day, month, and season for what it is. Life is short!
-
This is Raven-As the crow flies!
-
The month of March, the third month of the year, got it's name from Mars, the Roman god of war. How discusting! Honoring a pagan god, and dishonoring Jehovah who gave us time, months, seasons, and years! This is another evidence of who really is the ruler of this wicked world.
-
This only encourages me even more to be zealous in proclaiming His name. Having a share in the sanctification of Jehovah's name and upholding his sovereignty is a grand privilege, a bright light in this very dark world.
-
March weather wise, brings breezes loud and shrill. Stirs the dancing daffodil. In like a lion out like a lamb, or in like a lamb out like a lion. March will be grand!
-
By the way, do you remember "The Months" by Sara Coleridge? A framed picture in Borders book store, that was hung in the bathroom that I wanted to get and they would not let me have it even after I offered to give them money? Well, it's no longer there!!! It's gone!
I wonder where it is. I am forever grateful for Sandy's help (my partner in crime), in getting a picture of it and printing me a copy. I have it framed, and the bold lettering in the above paragraph is the poem Sara Coleridge wrote for the month of March. Thanks Sandy, I love that picture!
-
This first day of March was a good day in service. Being with my husband Russell was a treat. It was a beautiful day, and we met some nice people which was the icing on the cake.
-
I shall end this blog with an interesting poem by Henry David Thoreau (1817-1862). Journal, 23 August 1853:
-
"Live in each season as it passes; breathe the air, drink the drink, taste the fruit and resign yourself to the influences of each.
Some men think that they are not well in spring, or summer, or autumn, or winter; It is only because they are not well in them".
-
Enjoy each day, month, and season for what it is. Life is short!
-
This is Raven-As the crow flies!
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