Fooling, fooling

fooling around... and oops !!

A row of bottles on my shelf
 Caused me to analyze myself.
 One yellow pill I have to pop
 Goes to my heart so it won't stop.
 A little white one that I take
 Goes to my hands so they won't shake.
 The blue ones that I use a lot
 Tell me I'm happy when I'm not.
 The purple pill goes to my brain
 And tells me that I have no pain.
 The capsules tell me not to wheeze
 Or cough or choke or even sneeze.
 The red ones, smallest of them all
 Go to my blood so I won't fall.
 The orange ones, very big and bright
 Prevent my leg cramps in the night.
 Such an array of brilliant pills
 Helping to cure all kinds of ills.
 But what I'd really like to know...........
 Is what tells each one where to go!

This message reminded me to share with you
  by the original anti-Fool ~

Mr. T

Trying to keep things straight and have
  a foolishly happy April 1st!

Can you relate ?

(poem source - unknown)(Mr.T image found on free web site) 
please contact me if you own any of these and need attribution or image removed.

 

Is it that time already?

Winter still has bits of remains here and there, 
but already the pollen is flying. 

At least in my area. 
I have already gotten pollen alerts that the trees are starting their dating rituals. I could feel it before the allergy alerts arrived in my email box!
 Yup, it is that time. (achoo!)

 

Good old Maxine from Crabby Road Hallmark©
 always knows the score.

Are you ready for the sneezing, sniffling, red itchy eyes season?

The good thing that comes with it, is spring weather, buds and blossoms. (yea!)

Also linking up this week with Frozen Moments  and A Nut in a Nutshell .

broken bones, little boys and little brothers...

  Oh the heartbreaks a parent, grandparent or care-giver goes through when raising a child. Kids go through many developments, spurts and spats. They play and fight, tussle and tumble and lots of times there are bumps and bruises included. A parent may go through as much and at times more pain (mentally feeling) than their child when they are hurt or sick. Add a sibling (or playmate) into the mix and that ouchie or illness that may happen has just been multiplied many times!

happy little brothers

  If you are one of my regular readers than you most likely saw my last post asking for prayers and positive thoughts for my oldest grandson, Collin. 
A week ago Monday he and his rambunctious little brother, Sammy were playing and chasing each other before dinner time. Running up and down the hallway Collin fell and Sammy took a leap (or fell) wrestle mania style on his big brothers leg and broke the femur in his left leg. It was as accident. Plain and simple. But since mom nor dad had them in direct eye sight they really do not know exactly how it happened. Knowing or not, it still hurts the child and all those that love and care for him. The doctor said it was a spiral fracture and believes that Collin had his leg bent when Sam landed on it. 

 broken femur - before surgery

A long night and over into the next day of waiting only added more anxiety on mom and dad (plus grandparents, friends and family). Then the early evening surgery to repair his fractured femur. Thank the heavens for good friends that were able to quickly come and stay at their home (in shifts), to watch little Sammy while mom and dad wore out the floor pacing and waiting before, during and after. 
At first Sam seemed sad and confused, but with the attention and great care from these awesome friends, he barely missed his parents and brother! Sam will be 3 ( = short attention span) at the end of May, and has the energy of 6 kids at times! These same wonderful friends also brought meals to help out a very tried mom and dad once they brought Collin home.  

(special thanks and hugs to you!!)

active little brother

I am happy to report that Collin is home and in just a soft ace wrap with mobility restrictions. The surgical repair was done with flexible wire type rods inserted into the hollow part of his femur. They will stay in place at least 8 months. Collin is on pain medication (of course) but seems happy and cheerful like normal.

 

after- repaired femur with flexible rods

  For now he is carried (ughh!) or is pushed in a wheel chair, much like his re-hab was last year after his leg (updated bi-lateral club foot repair) surgery. I think what added to his normally cheerful ways is that mom was able to work from home (the best she could) and Sam went to Fraser Academy School for daycare (both boys have been attending Fraser Academy a few days a week since Sam's birth). So, Collin got to eat what ever he wanted, got to drink chocolate milk ( a wicked treat, I think his grandpa got him addicted too) and watch movies on the DVD player all day! All things that usually do not happen during a school week. Before the accident mom and dad were trying other healthy snacks to lure him from the chocolate addiction (☺)! ( I admit I have a horrid addiction to chocolate as well, sorry it must run in the family!)

Collin at home playing doctor

  I am so grateful for all of you who have sent best wishes, prayers and positive thoughts for Collin. If I have not already responded or visited your blog back with comment love I will soon! Collin still has a long road of recovery ahead. One of the biggest foreseeable roadblocks is how to get little brother Sam from wanting to keep on climbing and jumping on big brother Collin. Sam does not understand that lasting pain concept, and wants and needs that physical interaction. It is especially trying because he does have some diagnosed sensory problems, so my son and d.i.l. have their hands full! I know some of my readers have kids with these disorders and the same ones that Collin has been dealing with from birth, it is so helpful to hear your thoughts and comments. 

  I wish I lived closer to offer them some respite and day care. I also want to help and offer lots of hugs to both Collin and Sam. For now I am home bound, but both Grandpa and I have talked frequently on the phone with Collin and parents ☺. 

active Sam loves the snow!

Thank you again for all your positive vibes, keep them coming!

I also appreciate all your comments and advice as well. 

Until next time ....

          Faythe

looking for hope and comfort

Hugs, positive thoughts and prayers...

I have a different post tonight...

My oldest grandson had an accident with his little brother late yesterday afternoon. They were playing and running in the hallway and some how little brother fell on top of big brother and broke his femur ( his thigh bone).

taking off his shoes after playing outside

This is my grandson that already has bravely suffered and fought through many illness and surgeries since birth. Collin was born 5 years ago with bi-lateral club foot and high-bilirubin problems (jaundice) among other things.(please excuse my lack of correct medical terms and spellings) He was in hospital for weeks under the bilirubin lights which caused some other health issues while trying to save him from other serious things. He has already endured several surgeries on his feet and legs. Even as late as 1 year ago last April having to have both lower legs broken so growth plates could be put on to help straighten his feet and legs that had started to turn in badly again after a small growth spurt, he is a tall little guy. 

 first set of casts last April

He has such a sunny disposition normally, always smiling, happy, cheerful and willing to give out hugs. He is a big helper at home. Enjoys cooking and baking with mommy and daddy. Sings, dances and plays well with others and even occasionally with his little brother ( ☺ ) My heart is aching thinking about that he has to endure more pain. 

Comfort for Collin -

Wishing you good things, tender comfort and everything that helps you heal faster each day. You are stronger than you can imagine. Braver than many so much older, and loved so much more than words can say.

helping daddy cook pizza for dinner

I am humbly asking for your positive thoughts and if you pray a few of those for him as well. Please keep my son and daughter in law in your thoughts for strength. As well as little brother, Sam, who knows that something is wrong, is sad and missing his big brother.

Thank you so much...

I am participating in wordless/Wordful Wednesday at Hobo Mama/Natural Parents Network and Mrs. Marine and the Tiny Troops as well as with Mr. Linky below.

Until next time ...

   Faythe

Green drinking on St. Paddy's Day

Bartender, pour me a nice cold green one!

On St. Patrick's Day, some revelers will raise a pint of stout and wish their companions "Slainté!"—the Irish word, pronounced SLAN-cha, for "health."

This toast may brim with scientific truth. 

At a meeting of the American Heart Association in Orlando, Florida, back in 2003, researchers reported that Guinness may be as effective as daily aspirin in reducing the blood clots that cause heart attacks. (The benefit derives from antioxidants, which the researchers said reduce cholesterol deposits on arterial walls. The compounds are found in dark Irish stouts but not their paler cousins.)

  Of course drunk within reasonable limits.

 

If you want a pint of green beer, you could head to the local pub or make it at home. It is best to start with a light colored beer. It will better absorb the color. Once the beer has been poured into a chilled beer glass/stein, all you have to do is add a few drops of green food coloring and presto, you have green beer!

Have a safe, green holiday, and, no matter what your preferred pint, please drink responsibly. Lots of larger cities offer free bus service or AAA may offer free taxis. Call ahead and check for the local area you plan on going. You can also simply line up a designated driver/Leprechaun or hire a taxi. 

Enjoy your St. Paddy's celebrations how ever you do 
  and hoping this brings a wish your way-- 
  Good health, good luck, and happiness --
   For today and every day. 

 

patience, a lesson from Japan

  Out of difficulties grow miracles ...

Japan is setting the example

The Japanese people are doing an incredible job of maintaining order and calm during one of the worst natural disasters in recent memory. While sifting through debris and life torn asunder, many stories keep pouring in about the kindness and generosity Japanese people are showing towards each other. No looting, pushing, rabid fear of not getting a share. Patience, courtesy and respect for each other as they stand in line and help one another.

Americans are amazing in times of need, we pull together, offer help, give from our hearts, but when we stop to think about it - have we ever suffered a disaster of this magnitude where there wasn't any pillaging and added desecration?

The world should take notice,
  we can learn a lot from the people of Japan.

My continued thoughts and prayers are going out to all who are still suffering and in need from this catastrophe.

A reminder that besides your prayers,
if you would like to help monetarily you can through The Red Cross.

Earthquakes, tsunamis, floods, devastation !

Mother Nature has been exorbitantly cranky.

  My prayers and thoughts are offered as comfort.

 

The morning after Japan was struck by the biggest recorded earthquake to hit the island nation in recorded history and a ferocious 20+ foot tsunami it unleashed, the disaster's massive devastation was only starting to be uncovered. 

  

 
  The massive March 11, 2011 quake, 8.9-magnitude, has triggered tsunamis not only in Japan, but around the Pacific Basin. Walls of water and debris have submerged many areas of Japan, and tsunami warnings were issued for at least 20 countries and numerous Pacific islands, and across the ocean to include the western coast of Canada and the US. Strong aftershocks, as strong as 6.5-magnitude continue to shake the region. More are expected in the days, maybe weeks ahead. All areas should stay alert for current warning status.

 In Japan hundreds are feared dead. 1,000s still missing, as the tsunami flushed away ships, cars and homes, and triggered widespread fires that burned out of control.

Japan's worst previous quake was in 1923 in Kanto, an 8.3-magnitude tumbler that killed 143,000 people, according to USGS. A 7.2-magnitude quake in Kobe city in 1996 killed 6,400 people.

I have heard that many Japanese often do not even worry when they hear warnings of earthquakes. Japan lies on the "Ring of Fire" - an arc of earthquake and volcanic zones stretching around the Pacific where about 90 % of the world's quakes occur. A magnitude-8.8 tumbler that shook central Chile last February started a tsunami and killed 524 people. It may seem a regular event to those that live in these areas, one that is not worth worrying about since you have no control. To me it is still Mother Natures destructive side. One that I don't hold dear.

My heart and prayers go out to all that are fighting to survive this latest attack and may still be surrounded by Mother Natures madness. We are all Gods children and we must reach out to help our earthly brothers and sisters. If you decide to donate monetarily, the Red Cross would be the safest way I know of to start with. There is also the Salvation Army. Both organizations are equipped with ways and means to reach out to the many in need. Remember these agencies for help as well if you need it here in the states. Weather is still battling us here at home.

  These last words are where I remind urge you to please, sit down with your family this weekend and go over your emergency plans together ( or make them if you do not have any). Check those flashlight batteries (and don't forget to check the smoke alarm ones since it's the time change on Sunday, daylight savings time), Do you have emergency candles and matches too? Update emergency contacts in phones and wallets, and make copies of all important documents (store in another safe place). Those in hurricane/flood/tornado/earthquake prone areas may want to check through their emergency supplies, and make sure any food included in it isn't expired or contaminated, and that bottled water has been rotated if it's been awhile. It doesn't hurt to be prepared. These are things you can use and regularly rotate so it is not an extra expense. Better to be safe than sorry...


  sincerely,
     Faythe


I was not compensated in any way for this post. You should always investigate any organization yourself before donating of any kind, to be sure they are using funds or items in the way they promise.I have my readers and online friends in Mother Natures path close in thought and heart.

Looking for fun, music and more in San Diego?

Attention !! 
 All people from the San Diego/Ramona/North County area ~

  What are you doing Saturday, March 26?

 

If you like music, dancing and fun and have $10 you can go to Molly Malone's in Ramona for a great rock filled fun and fund-raising time!

If you are a long time reader you may of read my original post a year ago that brought attention to little Penny and her harrowing battle with Stage 4 Neuroblastoma, if you are new or don't remember just click on Penny's name to go to read that post about this brave little girl. There is also a battle for Penny button over there in my left sidebar (Pennies 4 Penny) it will also take you to her non-profit blog site.

Precious Penny is still fighting and reaching her 2nd birthday. And those medical bills keep climbing right along with her. So it is time for another fundraiser. My Blog buddy, Rhea at Mommy 2 3 Monkeys and Penny's moms cousin, who has been helping all along, along with Rhea's brother Eric from Ultimate Local Music has brought together a rocking bunch of bands and talent for a fun time that gives back!

Her Bed of Thorns, Canonbliss, Natural Selection, Dead Serial Killers and Against the World are all scheduled to perform.

There will be raffle prizes, including autographed memorabilia. It should be a real kicking time and all for a good cause. Sounds like a fun time and a way to help Penny celebrate her birthday in style.

$10 at the door.

Saturday March 26, 2011
8:00pm

Molly Malone’s
1270 Main Street
Ramona, CA 92065

ALL PROCEEDS GO TO PENNIES4PENNY.ORG!

For for information please visit Rhea over at Mommy 2 3 Monkeys. Rhea also writes about the San Diego area local news and events on her blog as well as giveaways and reviews. It is a great place to visit anytime.

If you are in the area, I hope you go and have fun and know at the same time you are helping a little angel. If you can't go you can still find other ways to help or donate by going to her web site Pennies4Penny.org. 


Please share this information with your friends!

Every little bit helps! Thank you!

      Healing Hugs and Prayers~

             Faythe

Digging through the past

to find inspiration-

To keep the dream of spring in mind until it arrives.

sorry so small

first tulip

first jonquil

first crocus with a bee

I really was digging, back at old CD copies from hubby's very first digital (2001, yes he wanted one sooner) and attempts at using this very primitive and (at the time) reasonably priced camera. It had very basic features and would in todays market be not be in the same category of quality of a small child's 1st digital now sold! The brand was a Jam Cam, only small built in memory and no tools just literally point and shoot.

Of course he was frustrated (even as a hobby, he was used to his Nikon-FG SLR and variety of lenses and filters) and the following year he was able to buy a camera more fitting for his expectations, a Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S85. It was not one of Sonys firsts, but gave hubby the features he was more used to with his old Nikon-FG SLR. Having only 4.1mp and 6x zoom it does have the a Carl Zeiss lens that he was able to buy addition extensions and filters for (eventually) though he hungers for more, it will have to do unless he chances across a lucky shamrock or lotto ticket ☺. Prices and features have both improved since 2002! He could get a camera today with more professional features for what that camera cost back then. Much like any computer-family items.

Below is one of his first shots of that springs crocus. What a difference a camera and equipment can make in the right hands (his hands compared to mine☺).

you can even see some munch marks from a hungry critter on the edges of the first petals

and a tiny fly inside

It was still trial and error. He snapped and I saved onto the computer. One of the things we have changed is not saving all photos in email mode, as suggested to us. If you want to print your photos that size will leave most wanting, especially if you capture a real keeper. We continue to learn more every day.

Enough words from me for today. Mr Linky is below to share your links for me to visit as well as fellow readers. Also linking this week to It's a Very Cherry World for Rednesday and Mamahood, Among Other Things for some different photo-blogs for you to discover.

until next time ...

Blinding ...

but beautiful.

Glaring, but wanted.

Is that the sun?

Oh winters melancholy curtain has shifted!

Tis the sun in all its brilliant glory!

Be quick, 

my soul to saturate before clouds obscure once more.
  Faythe M. Anstedt 3-1-2011

sunshine breaks over WI winters river

Isn't it funny how a brief day of sunshine can 

 illuminate ones spirit?

(photo should be clickable to enlarge, 
 photo credit to hubby, A.W.Anstedt, words-myself, please ask to use)
For Watery Wednesday look here.