Yesterday we went to Indianapolis with two purposes in mind. The first was to get a new battery from the Apple store for our old computer which would no longer turn on. While we were in the Apple store we also were to take a class on Numbers software. The second purpose was to look for a replacement for my aging mini-van.
We have been car shopping for several months now. Country Guy loves to do that. He spends much time researching the appropriate price to pay by looking up the value of our present car at Edmund's and/or Kelley Blue Book, so he will know how much the car dealership should allow on a trade in. He researches all the rebates and kick-backs the dealer and or company is offering, then he determines what options he wants on the vehicle and discovers the sticker price for all those options. (This research is much easier now because of the information available on the Internet. He used to buy books and visit car dealerships to determine these facts before he was ready to go car shopping.) When he has all this information he searches the data bases of car dealerships on the Internet to see if they have any vehicles with that sticker price because he knows those will have the options he is looking for. After he has done all this it is time to visit those dealerships which have those exact vehicles sitting on their lot to test drive a few and to begin negotiations.
Country Guy says the key to getting a great deal on a car is to know how much you are willing to pay, and to have a pretty good idea of how much the car dealership can sell the car for and still make a profit. If you can stick to these facts, be patient, and be willing to walk away from the deal if they do not accept your offer you will come away saving yourself several thousand dollars. The "sticking to these facts" is the part that makes me uncomfortable. I don't mind walking away and never allow myself to get into the "gots-to-have-it" mode, but I feel much tension as the time spent in the dealership increases and Country Guy continues to state the amount he is willing to pay, and sticks to it even as the salesman tells him, "we just can't do that"; "we can't even buy a car for that price"; "there is nothing left for us if we sell it for that price"; "let me see if I can get a little more out of your trade-in but you're going to have to work with me"; "can't you help us out here with a little more money"; "let me take your offer to the boss one more time but I'm sure it is impossible", etc. etc. etc. When you're negotiating with Country Guy this takes several hours so you also have to have much patience. He is excellent at this so I begin feeling sorry for the salesman. After the salesman has come down in price significantly, but not to Country Guy's range, I begin thinking we should compromise a little. I may even suggest this in private while the salesman is checking with his boss after Country Guy's latest refusal of their offer. (Note: if you are with someone who is negotiating always make sure this suggestion is made in private or expect much wrath from the negotiator.) Country Guy always reminds me this is just part of the procedure, and continues to hold his ground.
He had made this offer previously to 3 or 4 car dealerships in the past few months, so I was not very hopeful this negotiation would produce a new car either. But we choose to believe that when an offer is turned down that car wasn't the one for us and so we wait for a new one to come on the scene. This approach has always paid off for us. Saturday I became the owner of a beautiful new silver mini-van with gray and black interior and a sun roof which had not been in any of the other vans we had looked at. I am thrilled with it. We have to go back to Indy to pick it up this week, so we're planning to take another class at the Apple store. Isn't it amazing how the Lord really does cause all things to work together for our good when we trust Him?
FYI: Country Guy purchased the car for several thousand dollars under invoice. He really seems to enjoy this process and is excellent at it, so if any of you need a good negotiator, give him a call. I told him it is too nerve-wracking for me so would it be all right if I stay home next time? He agreed that I could. I don't think I'm an asset in the negotiations. By the time they're over I am way too sympathetic to the car dealership. :o) Country Guy reassures me that they wouldn't willingly give a car away so I can be certain they also made a profit in the process. I know he's right, but the process to me is agonizing.
After the offer is finally accepted Country Guy wonders if he paid too much.
Sunday, February 12, 2012
Friday, February 10, 2012
Martinsville Mapping and Banana Jumbo Cookies
I have two reasons for this post today. One is to mention the MAPPING meetings and to encourage any of you who live in the area to attend the next one, and the other is to make a correction to a recipe in my cookbook (I've already corrected it on the blog.)
Last night was the second meeting of Martinsville MAPPING. MAPPING is an acronym but I can't remember exactly what it stands for--something like Metro Area Planning... The meetings are conducted by a group from Western Illinois University. The process has been interesting and the enthusiasm of the people attending is contagious. Hopefully, a plan and strategy for sustaining and improving the quality of life for the future of Martinsville will be worked out in these meetings. Last night we worked on coming up with some BHAG's (Big Hairy Audacious Goals) for the community if there were no restrictions and anything was possible. It was interesting to hear people's dreams and to see that many were dreaming the same thing. Next week we will be voting on the long term BHAGs for which we want to develop shorter term strategies that will help us reach the BHAGs in the next several years.
Since I had some ripe bananas that I wanted to use, I called Cindy who was bringing barbecue sandwiches for the MAPPING group, to see if I could bring cookies. I have made the Banana Jumbo cookie recipe which is posted on the Recipes #2 page since our children were small, but yesterday I decided to sprinkle half the frosted cookies with coconut. They were even more delicious than the regular recipe! I can't believe it has taken me 30 years to think of this! So for those of you who have my cookbook you might want to add this suggestion to the recipe. I also only baked them 8 minutes instead of 10.
So if you are at all interested, you're welcome to come to the next MAPPING meeting on Thursday, Feb. 16 at 6:00. Not only will you have an opportunity to help plan for the future of Martinsville by contributing your ideas to the discussion, but you will get to sample good food, too. Next week is chili and who knows what kind of cookies.
Last night was the second meeting of Martinsville MAPPING. MAPPING is an acronym but I can't remember exactly what it stands for--something like Metro Area Planning... The meetings are conducted by a group from Western Illinois University. The process has been interesting and the enthusiasm of the people attending is contagious. Hopefully, a plan and strategy for sustaining and improving the quality of life for the future of Martinsville will be worked out in these meetings. Last night we worked on coming up with some BHAG's (Big Hairy Audacious Goals) for the community if there were no restrictions and anything was possible. It was interesting to hear people's dreams and to see that many were dreaming the same thing. Next week we will be voting on the long term BHAGs for which we want to develop shorter term strategies that will help us reach the BHAGs in the next several years.
Since I had some ripe bananas that I wanted to use, I called Cindy who was bringing barbecue sandwiches for the MAPPING group, to see if I could bring cookies. I have made the Banana Jumbo cookie recipe which is posted on the Recipes #2 page since our children were small, but yesterday I decided to sprinkle half the frosted cookies with coconut. They were even more delicious than the regular recipe! I can't believe it has taken me 30 years to think of this! So for those of you who have my cookbook you might want to add this suggestion to the recipe. I also only baked them 8 minutes instead of 10.
So if you are at all interested, you're welcome to come to the next MAPPING meeting on Thursday, Feb. 16 at 6:00. Not only will you have an opportunity to help plan for the future of Martinsville by contributing your ideas to the discussion, but you will get to sample good food, too. Next week is chili and who knows what kind of cookies.
Thursday, February 9, 2012
I missed an anniversary!
I realized this week that because we were on vacation, I missed celebrating the first anniversary of shalominthewilderness.blogspot.com. It seems appropriate to at least make note of the fact that as of January 31, it has been in existence for one year. That is somewhat of an accomplishment, I think, because I read somewhere that the life span of most blogs is less than 3 months.
I have enjoyed the process and am (relatively) happy with the results. Of course, I wish I was a better writer, but there is hope I will improve as I continue to practice through blogging. Some of the great results of the blog include having published a cookbook because of the Recipes page posts, having some of my favorite articles, YouTube videos, pictures, thoughts, etc. in a place where I can find them easily, and receiving comments and getting to know new people through the blog.
Every day I look forward to seeing how many people have visited the blog and where they are from. (Blogger statistics show the number of visits and what countries they are from, but there is no way to tell who they are, or whether they are the same people, or new people stumbling upon the blog.) So far there have been visits from 58 countries! Isn't that amazing? Sitting here in my living room I am talking to people all over the world! I find that fascinating! And also a little intimidating. It certainly gives me something to consider as I write each post.
Some days it is difficult to think of a topic to write about, and then sometimes when I do think of one, I wonder if anyone but me is interested in that topic. Your comments are so encouraging. I love meeting new people--especially from different countries and cultures, so I enjoy so much hearing from any or all of you who read this. I feel sort of like we are family. Please keep the comments and emails coming.
My goal from the beginning was not only to make the blog a repository of the things I want to remember and keep, but also to share those things which I treasure with you. I hope you have found some ideas to help you, or to inspire you, or to challenge your thinking in some way.
The one thing I wish I could discover is how to get a conversation going. I think it would be so much more interesting for the blog to be a conversation than a monologue. I would love to hear from you who read this about your lives, your interests, helpful tips, your opinions on the posts--anything--you would like to share with me and other readers, either through emails, or in the comments sections.
Thanks to all of you for reading my blog and for your encouragement. In this busy world when so many things call for our attention, I consider it a great honor that you would choose to spend time with me. I appreciate it immensely and continue to pray that your lives will be blessed with Shalom.
I have enjoyed the process and am (relatively) happy with the results. Of course, I wish I was a better writer, but there is hope I will improve as I continue to practice through blogging. Some of the great results of the blog include having published a cookbook because of the Recipes page posts, having some of my favorite articles, YouTube videos, pictures, thoughts, etc. in a place where I can find them easily, and receiving comments and getting to know new people through the blog.
Every day I look forward to seeing how many people have visited the blog and where they are from. (Blogger statistics show the number of visits and what countries they are from, but there is no way to tell who they are, or whether they are the same people, or new people stumbling upon the blog.) So far there have been visits from 58 countries! Isn't that amazing? Sitting here in my living room I am talking to people all over the world! I find that fascinating! And also a little intimidating. It certainly gives me something to consider as I write each post.
Some days it is difficult to think of a topic to write about, and then sometimes when I do think of one, I wonder if anyone but me is interested in that topic. Your comments are so encouraging. I love meeting new people--especially from different countries and cultures, so I enjoy so much hearing from any or all of you who read this. I feel sort of like we are family. Please keep the comments and emails coming.
My goal from the beginning was not only to make the blog a repository of the things I want to remember and keep, but also to share those things which I treasure with you. I hope you have found some ideas to help you, or to inspire you, or to challenge your thinking in some way.
The one thing I wish I could discover is how to get a conversation going. I think it would be so much more interesting for the blog to be a conversation than a monologue. I would love to hear from you who read this about your lives, your interests, helpful tips, your opinions on the posts--anything--you would like to share with me and other readers, either through emails, or in the comments sections.
Thanks to all of you for reading my blog and for your encouragement. In this busy world when so many things call for our attention, I consider it a great honor that you would choose to spend time with me. I appreciate it immensely and continue to pray that your lives will be blessed with Shalom.
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Pomegranates
When our daughter and grandsons were here about a year ago, I bought pomegranates for the first time. Gavin loved them and was disappointed I didn't have any the next time they visited. The rest of us thought it was an interesting fruit to try but didn't develop a craving for it.
A friend, Karen Lewis, who works with David's Shield, a ministry to Israeli soldiers, included this interesting article about the pomegranate in her most recent newsletter. I thought you might enjoy knowing more about this fruit, too.
POMEGRANATES
One of the oldest and most beloved fruits known in Israel is the red pomegranate, native to southwestern Asia around the Caspian Sea, has been grown in countries such as Iran, Iraq, Turkey, Armenia and Israel for more than 3,500 years. The word pomegranate comes from the Latin pomum and granatus, or “seedy apple.” The Hebrew word rimon, which comes from the Egyptian rmn, has become a source of confusion in recent years, as the round shape of the fruit lends itself to a less sweet purpose—a hand grenade in the Israeli army is called a rimon yad, or hand pomegranate.
Biblically, it is significant as the first fruit of the season, but also because it appears often throughout texts as a symbol of abundance, knowledge, fertility and peace. It also may have made a very early appearance in Genesis; Scholars differ on the actual fruit species of the “apple” of the Garden of Eden—some say that it might have been a fig or grapes or an apricot or the “seedy apple,” the pomegranate. The perfect pomegranate is mentioned as one with 613 seeds—the same number as the law of the Torah.
Pomegranate designs were embroidered on the hems of the robes of the high priests of the Temple and decorated the capitals of the two pillars of King Solomon’s temple (Kings 7:13-22). Coins from Ancient Judea dating from the second century BCE depicted a pomegranate on one side—perhaps in reference to the pomegranate being a symbol of wealth and plenty—and in 2007, the Israeli two-shekel coin has the same image.
From this picture of the bottom of a ripe pomegranate, it is clear where the Jewish 'Star of David' (in Israel, this is known as the 'Shield of David') came from.
This fruit is also sold throughout Israel in its season, which is the end of summer, just before Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year; but in any market where Arabs/ Palestinians work, they cut this end of the fruit off before it is put out to be sold.
I rejoice to know that this symbol was designed and developed by God Himself, and that He used the fruit with this symbol on the garments of the priests. The Pomegranate is symbol of purity, simplicity and holiness...
One of the oldest and most beloved fruits known in Israel is the red pomegranate, native to southwestern Asia around the Caspian Sea, has been grown in countries such as Iran, Iraq, Turkey, Armenia and Israel for more than 3,500 years. The word pomegranate comes from the Latin pomum and granatus, or “seedy apple.” The Hebrew word rimon, which comes from the Egyptian rmn, has become a source of confusion in recent years, as the round shape of the fruit lends itself to a less sweet purpose—a hand grenade in the Israeli army is called a rimon yad, or hand pomegranate.
Biblically, it is significant as the first fruit of the season, but also because it appears often throughout texts as a symbol of abundance, knowledge, fertility and peace. It also may have made a very early appearance in Genesis; Scholars differ on the actual fruit species of the “apple” of the Garden of Eden—some say that it might have been a fig or grapes or an apricot or the “seedy apple,” the pomegranate. The perfect pomegranate is mentioned as one with 613 seeds—the same number as the law of the Torah.
Pomegranate designs were embroidered on the hems of the robes of the high priests of the Temple and decorated the capitals of the two pillars of King Solomon’s temple (Kings 7:13-22). Coins from Ancient Judea dating from the second century BCE depicted a pomegranate on one side—perhaps in reference to the pomegranate being a symbol of wealth and plenty—and in 2007, the Israeli two-shekel coin has the same image.
From this picture of the bottom of a ripe pomegranate, it isThis fruit is also sold throughout Israel in its season, which is the end of summer, just before Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year; but in any market where Arabs/ Palestinians work, they cut this end of the fruit off before it is put out to be sold.
I rejoice to know that this symbol was designed and developed by God Himself, and that He used the fruit with this symbol on the garments of the priests. The Pomegranate is symbol of purity, simplicity and holiness...
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
My favorite dessert recipe right now.
Some of our family watched the Super Bowl together Sunday night. I'm really not much of a football fan. I would rather be reading a book instead, but it was an opportunity to be with family. It seems when that happens I usually cook, so in addition to making chili I made one of my favorite desserts--Cream Cheese Brownies-- even though I had resolved to not eat desserts for awhile. They were so good that I thought I would recommend them to you in case you're looking for something new to try. The recipe is on the Recipes #2 page, in section 7 Candy, Cookies & Bars. I only had one package of cream cheese so I had to cut the recipe in half which was a good thing because there were no leftovers to tempt me.
Hope you enjoy them as much as we do.
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Hope you enjoy them as much as we do.
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Monday, February 6, 2012
More Amazing Mathematics!
I don't know who put these together, but I have saved them in my files for a long time. Since I have been using my blog as a place to store my favorite things, it seemed right to post it now to coincide with the post of the video Saturday of the mathemagician.
I find these amazing and intriguing, don't you?
Saturday, February 4, 2012
Amazing Mathematics!
A friend sent me a link to this amazing video. http://www.ted.com/talks/arthur_benjamin_does_mathemagic.html
I tried to figure out how to embed it so that you could watch it directly from this site, but couldn't, so just click on the link and it will take you directly to it.
I am so intrigued and astounded by the amazing capabilities of the brain! This man is faster even than the calculators in calculating square roots of huge numbers.
I tried to figure out how to embed it so that you could watch it directly from this site, but couldn't, so just click on the link and it will take you directly to it.
I am so intrigued and astounded by the amazing capabilities of the brain! This man is faster even than the calculators in calculating square roots of huge numbers.
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Watch this video! See what is happening in our schools!
http://bcove.me/07uefz8c
My brother sent me a link to this video. I believe it needs to be seen by every person who cares about this country. There is a plan to destroy the America we know and turn it into a Muslim nation. Many people don't believe this and scoff at the idea, but Brigitte Gabriel presents some eye-opening information here that helps us see the time is short! Our children are being brain-washed in our schools in the name of political correctness. Most of us don't realize, or have not believed, there are people right now working to change the hearts of our children to believe a lie--that Islam is greater and better than Christianity. While we sit back and enjoy our freedom they are subversively teaching our children to rebel against the very foundations of our country. We must wake up!
Brigitte Gabriel, founder of ACT! for America. http://www.actforamerica.org/ I copied this information below from her website so you can see she knows what she is talking about.
My brother sent me a link to this video. I believe it needs to be seen by every person who cares about this country. There is a plan to destroy the America we know and turn it into a Muslim nation. Many people don't believe this and scoff at the idea, but Brigitte Gabriel presents some eye-opening information here that helps us see the time is short! Our children are being brain-washed in our schools in the name of political correctness. Most of us don't realize, or have not believed, there are people right now working to change the hearts of our children to believe a lie--that Islam is greater and better than Christianity. While we sit back and enjoy our freedom they are subversively teaching our children to rebel against the very foundations of our country. We must wake up!
Brigitte Gabriel, founder of ACT! for America. http://www.actforamerica.org/ I copied this information below from her website so you can see she knows what she is talking about.
Brigitte Gabriel is one of the leading terrorism experts in the world providing information and analysis on the rise of global Islamic terrorism. She lectures nationally and internationally about terrorism and current affairs. Her expertise is sought after by world and business leaders. She has addressed the Australian Prime Minister, members of The British Parliament/House of Commons, members of the United States Congress, The Pentagon, The Joint Forces Staff College, The US Special Operations Command, The US Asymmetric Warfare group, the FBI, and many others. In addition, Gabriel is a regular guest analyst on Fox News Channel, CNN, MSNBC, and various radio stations daily across America. She serves on the board of advisors of the Intelligence Summit.
Ms. Gabriel was Keynote speaker for Homeland Security Certification annual conference in 2009 in Las Vegas.
Ms. Gabriel is founder, president and CEO of ACT! for America, the largest grassroots citizen action network dedicated to preserving national security and combating Islamic supremacy. She’s the author of two New York Times Best Sellers, BECAUSE THEY HATE: A Survivor of Islamic Terror Warns America. And THEY MUST BE STOPPED: Why we must defeat radical Islam and how we can do it. Ms. Gabriel is named one of the top 50 most prominent speakers in America. She speaks Arabic, French, English and Hebrew.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Home Again
We're home again from Florida. It is amazing how easy it has been to slip into the old routine today and almost forget I have ever been on vacation--even though it lasted 2 weeks!
As I was on the way to the grocery store to re-stock the refrigerator, I was changing stations on the radio and happened upon an interview on child-raising. The participants in the program were discussing parents' tendency to shelter children and not encourage them to do the hard things. Since I don't know what station I was listening to and the people talking did not identify themselves in the short time I listened, I don't know who they were or what the program was, but the man known to me only as Gary read from a letter that Abigail Adams, wife of the 2nd President of the United States, wrote to her son, John Quincy. He was only 9 years old and was on his way to France with his father. He had been reluctant to go, but Abigail saw the potential for character building in this trip and encouraged him to go even though it meant months of separations and anxiety because of the lack of communication in 1778. I was so struck by her words and the sacrifice she made for his good, that I looked to see if I could find the letter on the Internet. The site where I found it has many letters from a great many of our historical figures, if you are interested. Here is the link to the website: http://www.familytales.org/people.php
And here is Abigail's letter if you would like to read it without having to look it up.
As I was on the way to the grocery store to re-stock the refrigerator, I was changing stations on the radio and happened upon an interview on child-raising. The participants in the program were discussing parents' tendency to shelter children and not encourage them to do the hard things. Since I don't know what station I was listening to and the people talking did not identify themselves in the short time I listened, I don't know who they were or what the program was, but the man known to me only as Gary read from a letter that Abigail Adams, wife of the 2nd President of the United States, wrote to her son, John Quincy. He was only 9 years old and was on his way to France with his father. He had been reluctant to go, but Abigail saw the potential for character building in this trip and encouraged him to go even though it meant months of separations and anxiety because of the lack of communication in 1778. I was so struck by her words and the sacrifice she made for his good, that I looked to see if I could find the letter on the Internet. The site where I found it has many letters from a great many of our historical figures, if you are interested. Here is the link to the website: http://www.familytales.org/people.php
And here is Abigail's letter if you would like to read it without having to look it up.
June, 1778.
MY DEAR SON,
T'is almost four months since you left your native land, and embarked upon the mighty waters, in quest of a foreign country. Although I have not particularly written to you since, yet you may be assured you have constantly been upon my heart and mind.
It is a very difficult task, my dear son, for a tender parent to bring her mind to part with a child of your years going to a distant land ; nor could I have acquiesced in such a separation under any other care than that of the most excellent parent and guardian who accompanied you. You have arrived at years capable of improving under the advantages you will be likely to have, if you do but properly attend to them. They are talents put into your hands, of which an account will be required of you hereafter ; and, being possessed of one, two, or four, see to it that you double your numbers.
The most amiable and most useful disposition in a young mind is diffidence of itself; and this should lead you to seek advice and instruction from him, who is your natural guardian, and will always counsel and direct you in the best manner, both for your present and future happiness. You are in possession of a natural good understanding, and of spirits unbroken by adversity and untamed with care. Improve your understanding by acquiring useful knowledge and virtue, such as will render you an ornament to society, an honor to your country, and a blessing to your parents. Great learning and superior abilities, should you ever possess them, will be of little value and small estimation, unless virtue, honor, truth, and integrity are added to them. Adhere to those religious sentiments and principles which were early instilled into your mind, and remember, that you are accountable to your Maker for all your words and actions.
Let me enjoin it upon you to attend constantly and steadfastly to the precepts and instructions of your father, as you value the happiness of your mother and your own welfare. His care and attention to you render many things unnecessary for me to write, which I might otherwise do ; bat the inadvertency and heedlessness of youth require line upon line and precept upon precept, and, when enforced by the joint efforts of both parents, will, I hope, have a due influence upon your conduct ; for, dear as you are to me, I would much rather you should have found your grave in the ocean you have crossed, or that any untimely death crop you in your infant years, than see you an immoral, profligate, or grace less child.
You have entered early in life upon the great theatre of the world, which is full of temptations and vice of every kind. You are not wholly unacquainted with history, in which you have read of crimes which your inexperienced mind could scarcely believe credible. You have been taught to think of them with horror, and to view vice as" a monster of so frightful mien, That, to be hated, needs but to be seen."
Yet you must keep a strict guard upon yourself, or the odious monster will soon lose its terror by be coming familiar to you. The modern history of our own times, furnishes as black a list of crimes, as can be paralleled in ancient times, even if we go back to Nero, Caligula, or Caesar Borgia. Young as you are, the cruel war, into which we have been compelled by the haughty tyrant of Britain and the bloody emissaries of his vengeance, may stamp upon your mind this certain truth, that the welfare and prosperity of all countries, communities, and, I may add, individuals, depend upon their morals. That nation to which we were once united, as it has departed from justice, eluded and subverted the wise laws which formerly governed it, and suffered the worst of crimes to go unpunished, has lost its valor, wisdom, and humanity, and, from being the dread and terror of Europe, has sunk into derision and infamy.
But, to quit political subjects, I have been greatly anxious for your safety, having never heard of the frigate since she sailed, till, about a week ago, a New York paper informed, that she was taken and carried into Plymouth. I did not fully credit this report, though it gave me much uneasiness. I yesterday heard that a French vessel was arrived at Portsmouth, which brought news of the safe arrival of the Boston ; but this wants confirmation. I hope it will not be long before I shall be assured of your safety. You must write me an account of your voyage, of your situation, and of every thing entertaining you can recollect.
Be assured I am most affectionately yours,
The wisdom, dedication, and vision of our Founding Fathers and their willingness to sacrifice much for the good of all is evident throughout history. It seems that desire to work for the "greater good" has been lost in the past few decades as we focus more and more on ourselves. I pray that we, who have benefited from the sacrifices made to make it possible for us to have the benefits we now enjoy, will regain that vision and desire to give of ourselves to a greater purpose. Let us train our children with this sense of destiny and purpose, just as John & Abigail helped John Quincy to become a man of great moral character. So, too, must we do that for our children if the freedoms they fought so strongly for are to survive into the next generation.
Monday, January 30, 2012
Native American Festival
Mike & Cindy (from Illinois) arrived late Friday night so we all decided to go to the Native American Festival in Sarasota Saturday morning. We stopped for breakfast at The Breakfast House (see earlier post), which was on the way to the festival, for a delicious, hearty breakfast. The festival was educational and entertaining. The costumes were beautiful! The hoop dancer, Kevin Locke, was amazing. At the time we watched him he worked with 28 hoops. As he was dancing he explained the meaning of the hoops as a type of prayer. He said he works with as many as 65 hoops at one time and that he had brought 100 which he would attempt to incorporate in a dance later in the day. Here is a link to a YouTube video, if you would like to see him dance: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YqNRLIH4vZk
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| Kevin Locke, hoop dancer |
One of the booth owners told us they have pow-wows all over the U.S. and that Illinois alone has over 50. He mentioned that one in Tipton, Indiana, on the first weekend in September, has over 500 dancers and is one of the best shows we could ever see.
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| One of the dancers in native costume |
After the Festival we took Mike & Cindy to the Dry Dock restaurant for lunch and then spent the afternoon at the beach. We were amazed at this phenomena--a halo around the sun--that appeared during the afternoon as we sat on the deck.
The sunset was the most spectacular we have seen since we've been here--a beautiful gift to us all! It is interesting to see people gather to watch the sunset at the condos--a very social occasion!
After watching the sunset we went to The Beach House for dinner and to enjoy the live entertainment. John Rinell has a beautiful voice and sounds just like the original artists of the songs he sings--particularly Frank Sinatra. Even though it was a little cool, the restaurant had propane heaters so we were able to eat outside which always makes me feel like I'm on vacation. It was a wonderful day!
Then yesterday we went for a long walk on the beach and then to St. Amand's Circle to have lunch at the Cuban restaurant, Columbia. We then strolled through the Art Show that was set up there.
On the way home we stopped at Publix--the local grocery store--for salad fixings for dinner so that we wouldn't have to go out again. What a relaxing afternoon and evening spent at the condo!
Our friends left this morning. As our time on the beach is winding down my thoughts are beginning to turn to home. It will be good to be home, but I'm a little reluctant to leave this beautiful area and the wonderful weather we have been having.
Friday, January 27, 2012
It rained this morning so we read and watched the waves, and then went to The Dry Dock again for lunch. I was so hungry for another grouper sandwich! If you've been to Florida you probably know that grouper is a popular fish to eat here. I've tried grouper sandwiches in several restaurants and have not been that impressed. I suppose it is because I am not overly fond of seafood, but the waitress at the Dry Dock said they have the best grouper sandwiches in Longboat Key--and possibly the state--so I thought I should give it another try. It was so good that I woke up this morning wishing I could have another one today. Well, I got my wish. Country Guy had one, too, and agreed with me that it really was the best we've ever had!
Friends from Illinois have been visiting family in Florida and are planning to come stay with us a couple of days. They're on their way back from Key West, so I don't know if they'll get here today or tomorrow. It will be fun to see them.
I'm sure with friends visiting that will also mean at least one more trip to The Dry Dock! I guess I'll just have to suffer through it. :o)
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Today's vacation update
We had lunch again at the Dry Dock Waterfront Grill. It has become our favorite restaurant here in Florida, since both of us have tried something different from the menu each time we've been here for a total of 6 different entres and each one has been wonderful! We're planning to go again at least one more time before we leave for Illinois. Inside and outside seating is available, but because the weather has been so beautiful we always choose to be outside near the water. Our first visit here was at night, but since most of the restaurants (including this one) have huge propane heaters in their outside dining areas it is pleasant to eat out even though the temperature drops pretty quickly when the sun goes down.
Today, as always, there were several species of birds perched on the posts on the pier.
The restaurant is located behind this huge boat storage warehouse so it is a little difficult to find unless you know it's there. Fortunately, I had read reviews on TripAdvisor that pointed that out.
This is the walkway from our condo to the parking lot. The bougainvillea is beautiful, isn't it?
Today, as always, there were several species of birds perched on the posts on the pier.
I especially liked the pose of this white ibis. He would periodically look directly at me as if to say, "Aren't you going to take my picture?" It was comical.
The restaurant is located behind this huge boat storage warehouse so it is a little difficult to find unless you know it's there. Fortunately, I had read reviews on TripAdvisor that pointed that out.
This is the walkway from our condo to the parking lot. The bougainvillea is beautiful, isn't it? Today the sea has been very choppy. I think a storm is forecast for tomorrow. I noticed when I went for a short walk at low tide that the sand on the beach had about a 6 or 8 inch drop off that the surf had cut in it because of the intensity of the waves. It is amazing how much sand a wave (or a series of waves) can move!
Only a few more days left in warm, sunny Florida. I'm sure I will be a little sad to leave when the time comes.
Dennis Cramer
I have heard much about Dennis Cramer and the accuracy of his personal and prophetic words but have not yet had the opportunity to sit under his ministry. Not withstanding that fact, because of the doom & gloom prognosis for this world I have been encouraged by him just through the title of one of his books, The Next One Hundred Years. Even though I haven't read the book the title says much. Dennis is prophesying life will go on for at least 100 years.
This "word" from him that was posted on Elijah List yesterday is definitely encouraging in light of the fear that the world will end in 2012. There is also much good news for those of us who desire to see the Gospel preached with signs, wonders, and miracles as it was in biblical times.
This "word" from him that was posted on Elijah List yesterday is definitely encouraging in light of the fear that the world will end in 2012. There is also much good news for those of us who desire to see the Gospel preached with signs, wonders, and miracles as it was in biblical times.
The Gifts of the Spirit: Back From the Dead!
by Dennis Cramer
Jan 25, 2012
1. The gifts of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 12) will make a stunning comeback in 2012-2014!
2. The laity, the Body of Christ at large, will be the target for this revival of gifts. This will be a "God's people" revival, not a leader's revival of gifts.
3. Virtually all nine gifts will come to the forefront of our meetings – if we will allow them to.
4. Apostles and prophets will begin to impart and activate these gifts to the churches they minister in – here and abroad.
5. Some of the best teaching in years on these gifts will go forth from America's pulpits as pastors/teachers everywhere contribute their part to this gifts revival.
6. Information, impartation, and activation of these gifts will occupy entire meetings.
7. Other nations too will participate in this gifts awakening with a special emphasis on Asian nations.
8. Three power gifts: gift of faith, gifts of healing and gift of miracles will be especially restored.
9. Signs, wonders, various miracles and gifts of the Holy Spirit will invade and ultimately destroy the works of the devil in 2012.
10. Those who find fault, or who criticize the operation of these gifts, will find themselves part of a group of Believers who will "miss God" and pay a terrible price for their skepticism and unbelief. These gifts will "polarize" the Church. Many will catch the fire, and many will not.
11. The Charismatic dimension of the Church will gain new credibility as these gifts are administered by quality men and women of character, integrity and honesty – displaying Christlikeness in their release of these powerful gifts.
12. This will be the year that the famous "nameless and faceless" generation of gifted men and women will finally arise among the nations.
This will be the year for the African-American Believer! There will an extra special move of God among African-American Believers, churches, and leaders characterized by the release of these nine powerful gifts.
Also, 2012 will mark the beginning of a new level of release of supernatural finances leading to extreme wealth. A curse is being broken off of the finances of many African-American brethren, and their personal and business finances will exceed their wildest imaginations – some even experiencing mega-wealth… all to the glory of God.
Finally…
Everyone relax! The world will NOT end in 2012, Jesus will not return in 2012, and the Church will have one of her most powerful years in 2012. All Believers must be about their Father's business, must make full proof of their ministries, and must do the greater works Jesus spoke to us about. The word of the Lord for all Believers for 2012 is: produce, produce and produce. Do more in 2012 for the glory of God. Amen!
Dennis Cramer
Dennis Cramer Ministries
Email: denniscramer1@comcast.net
http://www.denniscramer.com
Dennis Cramer Ministries
Email: denniscramer1@comcast.net
http://www.denniscramer.com
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
A fun dinner tonight
Country Guy checks the weather in Illinois everyday. It is raining and the temperature is near freezing tonight as I write this, so I guess it's pretty miserable there. Hearing that certainly doesn't make me eager to leave paradise. :o)
We took another long walk on the beach this morning. After about 3 1/2 miles we stopped for breakfast at The Blue Dolpin and then walked another mile or so back to our condo.
This afternoon we walked in the ocean for awhile. The water felt really cold at first-- I saw somewhere the water temperature is in the low 60's, but after we walked in it a few minutes it began to feel much warmer and very refreshing since the temperature has been in the low 80's today.
Don & Beth, friends from Aqueduct, live on AnnaMaria Island, which is connected to Longboat Key. We met them tonight for dinner at The Beach House restaurant. Because it was so warm today we ate outside and watched the sun set. We had lots to catch up on since we hadn't seen them for several years. Not only was the company great and the food good, but The Beach House had excellent live entertainment.
It was another very fun and relaxing day!
We took another long walk on the beach this morning. After about 3 1/2 miles we stopped for breakfast at The Blue Dolpin and then walked another mile or so back to our condo.
This afternoon we walked in the ocean for awhile. The water felt really cold at first-- I saw somewhere the water temperature is in the low 60's, but after we walked in it a few minutes it began to feel much warmer and very refreshing since the temperature has been in the low 80's today.
Don & Beth, friends from Aqueduct, live on AnnaMaria Island, which is connected to Longboat Key. We met them tonight for dinner at The Beach House restaurant. Because it was so warm today we ate outside and watched the sun set. We had lots to catch up on since we hadn't seen them for several years. Not only was the company great and the food good, but The Beach House had excellent live entertainment.
It was another very fun and relaxing day!
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Time Out
Today we took the day off from the beach and went to Myakka River State Park. On the way we had a wonderful breakfast at a cute little house which had been turned into a restaurant, called The Breakfast House. The chairs of each table were painted a different color and then the table was set with the napkins to match the chair color. Here's a picture:
(I'm posting it not only so you can see the pretty chair colors but to hopefully inspire someone to start a restaurant in our hometown. We certainly need one.)
When we arrived at Myakka we decided to take the boat tour of the lake. The captain was very knowledgeable and told us much about the park. One of the things I found most interesting was that the lake was only 4 feet deep at the deepest part and it has been estimated over 1000 alligators live in it. Here's a picture I took as we drove through the park: 
This is a flock of white pelicans. The captain said it is very unusual to see them in the park. I actually didn't even know there was such a thing as a white pelican. I now know they are one of North America's largest fresh water birds.
After the boat ride we hiked to the canopy walk and then continued up higher to the top of the tower which was 75 feet high. We could see most of the park from there.
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| The canopy walkway |
We got home about 4:00 and then Country Guy went for an hour long walk on the beach. I didn't go with him since I am still recuperating from my walk yesterday. :o)
Afterwards we had pizza at a good Italian restaurant called The Bayou Tavern.
As soon as I get this posted, I am starting another book.
A very nice day!
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