Lord Thomas of Wellington

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2012

2012-01-01T15:19:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year 2012 from Lord and Lady of Wellington. Here are two goofies who had fun with Lady and Grandaughters watching Justin Bieber, Pit Bull, and Lady Gaga while watching the ball drop in NYC. Hope this New Year brings nothing but happiness, good health, and successs to all.

CREATIVE TUESDAY ENTRY ~ 10 LORDS A LEAPING

2011-12-26T06:37:00.000-08:00

Since my blog ID is Lord Thomas, I had to choose 10 Lords a Leaping from the 12 Days of Christmas Theme. LadyCat and I had a Very Merry Christmas time surrounded by family and friends. For other
Creative Tuesday entries please go to http://creativetuesdays.blogspot.com/ or click on the Creative Tuesday Icon below. Happy New Year to all.

MERRY CHRISTMAS 2011

2011-12-21T04:24:00.000-08:00

As we are into the Christmas Season, let's remember each other and how we have the opportunity to touch each other's lives in a positive way hoping for a New Year full of happiness and good cheer.

Best to each one of you and Sweet Christmas Blessings to all;

for unto us is born a Saviour,

Christ the Lord!

Creative Tuesday Entry ~ Mistletoe Time

2011-12-05T16:22:00.000-08:00

Christmas is a time of happiest moments... including making memories under some mistletoe. It's when there are secret wishes of finding the right one under the mistletoe and then the ultimate question comes to mind, "Should I, or shouldn't I?"..... Hamlet might have said in such a situation. "To be, or not to be".

To enjoy other entries for this week's Creative Tuesday go to the Creative Tuesday Site by clicking here

I'm Joseph in the Purdue Christmas Show this Holiday Season.

2011-12-02T18:03:00.000-08:00

I am in a singing group (AC3) of the Purdue Music Organization (PMO). I sang in the cantata portion of the show about 3 years ago. I couldn't find the extra time to commit to the required rehearsal hours the past two years and also this one. However, I was asked to be Joseph in the still life nativity scene as part of the cantata. I sure have enjoyed doing this. Dressing up and being a part of the show even though I just stand still. However, I have the best seat in the house with a 300 member choir encompassing me. They sound like angels singing Gloria, The First Noel, Silent Night, and other songs. It will be aired on public television during next year's holiday season. Here are a few pics of me in full costume. The performances are this weekend; Dec 3rd and 4th. (3 on Sat and then a Sun matinee). It is a very humbling experience standing protraying Joseph with all of this beautiful inspiring music being performed proclaiming Christ as the Son of God.

Star of Bethlehem

2011-11-27T11:20:00.000-08:00

In Christian tradition, the Star of Bethlehem, revealed the birth of Jesus to the magi, or "wise men", and later led them to Bethlehem. The star appears in the nativity story of the Gospel of Matthew, where magi "from the east" are inspired by the star to travel to Jeruselem. From the Book of Micah, the star interpreted as a prophecy, directs them to Bethlehem, a nearby village. The star leads them to Jesus' house in Bethlehem, where they pay him homage, worship him, and give him gifts. The wise men then return to their own country. Let's all be wise men during this Holiday Season and acknowledge we are, as the created, standing in need of a Saviour.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

2011-11-24T06:36:00.000-08:00

Reflect upon your present blessings, of which every man has many--not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some."
Charles Dickens

Creative Tuesday ~ 3/Three Theme

2011-11-19T06:46:00.000-08:00

Rub-a-dub dub, three men in a tub was the first thing that came to my mind when thinking of what to do with this theme. I went online and found a picture of the three little guys and this is my hand free drawing while viewing the picture. I hope this doesn't disqualify me, but I do lack the ability at this point in my drawing hobby to just think of an object and draw it on paper. I was able to view the picture and this is what I came up with. Hopefully, as time passes, I'll be able to draw something like this without having to look at an object. Other entries may be viewed starting Nov 22nd; please click on the icon and enjoy!! :)

My Liquore Giuseppe Galliano Bottle

2011-11-08T18:51:00.000-08:00

Liquore Galliano L'Autentico, known more commonly as Galliano, is a sweet herbal liqueur, created in 1896 by Italian distiller and brandy producer Arturo Vaccari of Lavorno, Tuscany. Vaccari named the spirit after Giuseppe Galliano., an Italian hero of the First Italo - Ethiopian War at the end of the 19th century. Its vivid yellow color, currently derived from tartrazine (a lemon-yellow azo dye), symbolizes the Gold Rushes of the 1890s. The original manufacturing of the liqueur included blending local Italian ingredients such as anise, lavender and mint with imported vanilla, cinnamon and coriander. The colorless liqueur took on the color of yellow. Although I haven't had the opportunity to try this liqueur, hopefully, I will someday.

I acquired my Galliano decanter in Columbus, Ohio some years back at the antique show at the fair grounds. They were asking $20 for it; however, I bargained with the dealer and got it for $10. From what I could find on ebay, I did well. They sell for around $10 on ebay; some a little higher. He stands so stately near the fireplace in our living room. Quite the handsome soldier guarding with his sword. A true hero of the First Italo-Ethiopian War.

Thanksgiving Creative Tuesday

2011-11-07T18:11:00.000-08:00

Let's be truly thankful for all the blessings bestowed upon us at this festive time. The abundance of a harvest crop busting at the seams. For other Creative Tuesday entries, please click on the Creative Tuesday Icon

CREATIVE TUESDAY ~ AUTUMN / FALL

2011-10-24T17:15:00.000-07:00

I have been away for sometime, but decided to give this Creative Tuesday another try. Though I'm not as talented as my dear niece, Betsy, I do enjoy attempting at drawing something related to the theme.
Since I've drawn this entry, I've purchased some colored markers hoping to do a better job next time. :)
My entry is from the viewer's perspective while looking toward the clouded sky seeing silhouetted falling leaves. Go to the Creative Tuesday Blog site and enjoy other creative artists displaying their work.

Please visit Creative Tuesday's Blog at this address: http://creativetuesdays.blogspot.com/ Or click
on the above Creative Tuesdays Banner.

Harvest Time 2011

2011-10-16T10:46:00.000-07:00

Giving Thanks
For the hay and the corn and the wheat that is reaped,
For the labor well done, and the barns that are heaped,
For the sun and the dew and the sweet honeycomb,
For the rose and the song and the harvest brought home --

~ author unknown ~

LadyCat and I were home when the field just east of us

was harvested. Wouldn't our pioneer forefathers stand

in awe to see such a harvest. We have so much to be

Thankful for.

The Willow Manor Ball

2011-10-12T03:24:00.000-07:00

For the annual most gala affair, I have chosen a Perry Ellis 2 buttoned tuxedo with matching black vest and bowtie. This will compliment Lady of Wellington's gorgeous chiffon flowing glown.

To accent Lady of Wellington's choice of color, I will wear this stunning blue stone crystal cufflinks and studs.

I've chosen these Macon black tuxedo shoes. They are very comfortable for all the dancing that will be enjoyed.

To join the fun click here

On Guard !

2011-09-18T15:40:00.000-07:00

"Cats on Guard" will be released this fall, starring none other than Musketters Dubs and Skip. Here is a still frame from the scene where they spot a bird outside the window of the Captain's Room. In another intense scene, the 3rd Musketter, Bear, joins in the watch for the thrilling climax. Be sure to watch as the drama unfolds at your local theaters. Set design and directed by Lord Thomas of Wellington, understudy to Merchant Ivory Productions; screenplay and costume design by LadyCat of Wellington, assistant to Edith Head for many years. This film will surely capture many nominations at the Academy Awards let alone win Oscars in many catagories.

Swashbucklers

2011-09-05T17:41:00.000-07:00

The word "swashbuckler", generally describes a protagonist who is heroic and idealistic to the bone and who rescues damsels in distress. His typical counterpart is dastardly villain. There is a long list of swashbucklers who combine outstanding courage, swordfighting skill, resourcefulness, chivalry and a distinctive sense of honor and justice, as for example The Three Musketeers, The Scarlet Pimpernel, Robin Hood, and Zorro.The genre has, apart from swordplay, always been characterized by influences that can be traced back to the chivalry tales of Medieval Europe, such as Robin Hood and the King Arthur legends

I enjoy watching and clowning around acting like a swashbuckler. While growing up we used to take the slats out of an old babybed up stairs and play as though they were our mightly swords. We used to put on the music (of which I can't think of right now) and swashbuckling to our hearts content.

WT of Willow Manor gave me a couple of fencing swords he brought back from Old Europe which I now enjoy displaying them on our living room wall. One of the finest sword fighting scenes is from the 1995 movie, "Rob Roy" starring Liam Neeson and Tim Roth in the thrilling final climatic fight to the finish. Unfortunately, I was unable to make a copy of the scene due to MGM rights reserved.

David Waters' Wasabi Crab Cakes

2011-08-27T17:44:00.000-07:00

Hats off to David Allen Waters of Michigan. He recently posted his recipe for crab cakes served with wasabi cream sauce. This is one I had to try. It sounded yummy and man can LadyCat and I vouch for that. Please visit David's blog for interesting posts of poetry, foods, and whatever strikes his fancy. His post of Aug 22, 2011 gives the recipe. I was a little too hasty and mine didn't turn out as picture perfect as Allen's but never-the-less they were scrumptious. Try some; you'll be glad you did ! :)
Visit David's blog at http://davidwaters100.blogspot.com/

The Stephen Foster Story Musical

2011-08-25T19:02:00.000-07:00

In continuation of our trip to Bardstown, KY, here is a shot of the singing cast at the beginning of the second act. I guess I'm showing my age; for when I shared going to My Old Kentucky Home and seeing the musical, the majority of my co-workers didn't know who or what I was talking about. Are we at last losing our American Heritage or am I just an old fuddie duddie. Probably the latter. If you'd ask me something about sports history 30 or 40 years ago, I'd probably would say the same thing. We all have our different interests and what turns our crank. I guess I love the days gone by too much. Before the performance we had our pictures taken in the stand-up character boards. It was a fun evening.

My Old Kentucky Home

2011-08-21T19:08:00.000-07:00

LadyCat and I caught the season's last performance of the Stephen Foster Story Musical in Bardstown, KY last weekend. It was a "on the spur of the moment" trip. My Old Kentucky Home was not Stephen Foster's home. It was his cousin Rebecca's home where he visited. While there, he was inspired to pen the song "My Old Kentucky Home" which was later to become the state's song. The desk is still there where he sat while composing the song. The home was somewhat disappointing with the refurbishings compared to what it was about 25 years ago. They covered the beautiful hardwood flooring with these gaudy wall to wall carpetings throughout and chose period wall paper that didn't compliment the carpeting. The curator has to be blind; or at least the redecorating committee. However, the outside was as beautiful as ever and the musical was very colorful and tastefully done.
The painting is of Stephen Foster surrounded with those who inspired him to compose his songs of America. Sadly he died alone and destitute at the age of 36 in New York City.

As you can see, the outside is still stately and beautiful. On the grounds, is the family cemetery where is buried the last relative to live in the home, Madge Rowan Frost, who willed the home and grounds over to the state to be turned into a state park in the 1920s. In the picture is her tombstone. Stephen Foster is bured in Pennsylvanian where he lived most of his life.

The Blue Angels

2011-08-19T16:46:00.000-07:00

For the past 4 years, I have gone to the Indianapolis Air Show with my grandson. He is fasinated with the power demonstrated by the planes and jets. This year, the Blue Angels were the main attraction. What a great show they performed. Here are some of the pics I was able to quickly shoot.

Taking pictures of something on TV

2011-08-12T17:38:00.000-07:00

I was infatuated with the documentary of Black Beard on PBS recently. They kept on showing these great sea scenes. I couldn't stop the image, but I managed to take pictures with my i-pad. I couldn't believe I actually took these shots from a tv screen. Have you ever tried this? Its fun!

Somewhere Over the Rainbow

2011-08-11T17:37:00.000-07:00

"Somewhere over the rainbow, blue birds fly." A couple of months ago I was driving in the early morning and all of a suddent this rainbow appears in the western skies while the sun was rising in the east. I had to stop and take a picture. It was beautiful ! Ahhh, yes; and how can we but include the rainbow girl herself, Judy Garland. What a voice. She always thought herself not pretty. But look at those lips and eyes. Mickey Rooney was a lucky guy to be staged beside her. Whatever your thoughts are of rainbows, I can't but help think of Judy singing that sentimental song of encouragement and hope. Let's all go find that pot of gold! :)

The Painted Hand

2011-08-08T17:01:00.000-07:00

On our last visit to the Indianapolis Art Museum, I was intrigued by taking close up pictures of "the painted hand". Below are some examples of various artists' skills in painting the hand. Portraits were more expensive if they included the hand because it was considered by artists the most difficult to paint.

Space to Breath

2011-08-03T17:07:00.000-07:00

One thing that is very very nice about where we live now is we have open space that we didn't have before. Especially out back. We love to go out back and just drink in the space. Above are some shots of our back yard area. Our back yard is up against a church property which adds to the privacy. Have a great day everyone! :)

Summer Rose

2011-07-31T08:32:00.000-07:00

Our rose bushes have done quite well this summer. LadyCat continues to dry the pedals for a sweet smelling fragrance. It is hot in Hoosierland. How about where you are? We did have a beautiful yard until the hot dry sun scorched it. We all need to do a rain dance. Let's do it ! :)

An Irish Wish for my Blogster Friends

2011-04-07T07:04:00.000-07:00

An Irish Wish for a Friend

Wishing you a rainbow

For sunlight after showers ~

Miles and miles of Irish smiles

For golden happy hours ~

Shamrocks at your doorway

For luck and laughter too,

And a host of friends that never ends

Each day your whole life through!

*** With warmer weather coming and home owner responsibilities, my posts may be far and few between during the coming months. All is well and wishing all blue skies :) ***

Strawberries and Cream Cheese

2011-04-06T06:49:00.000-07:00

For a change, we had a strawberry cake with cream cheese icing. It really hit the spot as we wait in anticipation for warmer weather. The wind, chill, and rain continue to want to hold on. Wishing all of my blogster buddies a fine day today. :)

We have a gymnast in the house

2011-04-03T07:07:00.000-07:00

Here is Dubs warming up for his floor routine. He has won many national titles. He plans to retire after getting mom and dad out of debt.... hee hee... Hope all is having a lovely Sunday.

GO BUTLER!! :)

Lord and Lady of Wellington's New Greenhouse

2011-04-01T12:46:00.001-07:00

Many of you know that LadyCat and I have recently moved. This is the greenhouse we have chosen to have built on our back 40.... we'll have to have a garden party upon completion... Everyone is invited!!

A Happy Wonderful Funfilled April Fools Day to ALL.... hee hee ;)

Henry VIII still worth his weight

2011-03-31T09:35:00.000-07:00

Willow Manor's WT gave this paper weight to me years ago. I have it sitting out and enjoy looking at it. He bought it at an antique show in Ohio. WT and I took a trip to Prague in 2007. We had a great time. His business takes him to old Europe countries and he has given me numberous little gifts that he could manage to pack in his bags.

HAPPY ST. PAT'S DAY

2011-03-17T05:26:00.000-07:00

Wishing all of my blogster buddies a HAPPY St. Pat's Day.

CHEERS :)

Ides of March

2011-03-15T12:01:00.000-07:00

Having taken Latin in high school ( or should I say, it took me), we were big on the Ides of March. I'm not very good in foreign languages. In modern times, the term Ides of March is best known as the date on which Julius Caesar was killed in 44 B.C. Caesar was stabbed to death in the Theatre of Pompey by a group of some 60 conspirators led by Marcus Junius Brutus and Gaius Cassius Longinus.

The Ides of March is the name of 15 March in the Roman calendar, probably referring to the day of the full moon. The above picture of Julius Caesar's death was painted by Vincenzo Camucini in 1798. What foreign did you take if any? I admire people who are bi-lingual because I do not have the ability at all.

"Only the Shadow Knows"

2011-03-14T03:46:00.000-07:00

Orson Welles as "The Shadow"

Orson Welles, 1937

When I was very young, I can remember hearing the radio program "The Shadow". It was back then that one could listen intensely and imagine in his/her own mind what the characters looked like and create the setting with the mysterious music and voices.

The radio program aired for the first time on September 26, 1937 with narrator Orson Welles. The Shadow was a crime fighter who had the power to cloud the minds of his opponents where they could only see him a few feet to the right or left from where he actually was so when they tried to attack him, he had a rather fun time seeing them miss him.

The famous line, "Who knows what evil lurks in the hearts of men?" was created by Frank Readick, Jr. After Welles, the character was protrayed by the voices of Bill Johnstone, Bret Morrison (the longest run, 10 years), John Archer, and Steve Courtleigh.

The last program was aired on December 26, 1954. Can you remember the radio program?

"Daffodils" (1804) by William Wordsworth

2011-03-11T09:32:00.000-08:00

For oft, when on my couch I lie
In vacant or in pensive mood,

They flash upon that inward eye
Which is the bliss of solitude;

And then my heart with pleasure fills,

And dances with the daffodils.

By William Wordsworth (1770-1850).

I'm so looking forward to Spring. I can hardly wait for the daffodil to bloom. :)

The Hanna Museum Paintings

2011-03-08T11:20:00.001-08:00

The Accolades

God's Speed

Two Crowns

Le Belle Dame Sans Merci

Lord Thomas and Lady Catherine of Wellington are announcing the Grand Opening of the Hanna Museum located in Dunsbury, Yorkshire, England. Among the many extraodinaire pieces are the above authentic grand reprints of Edmund Blair Leighton's famous and ever-so-popular paintings "The Accolades" and "God's Speed" and also Sir Frank Dicksee's "Two Crowns" and "Le Belle Dame Sans Merci". Actually, we have these hanging in our living room and love them.

How Did March Come in for YOU?

2011-03-01T13:02:00.000-08:00

The old saying, "If March comes in like a lion, it will go out like a lamb" is based on the rough cold and soft warm wind variances of March. Since it is a month where winter is changing into spring, we can understand why patterns sway back and forth as winter is gradually giving way to spring. Many times old man winter doesn't want to give up and holds on to his last and final breath which then is vice-versa and the old saying is If March comes in like a lamb, it will go out as a lion. Here in Hoosierland, March came in as a lamb; so according to this old statement, we probably can expect rough chilled winds at the end of the month. How did it favor in your neck of the woods?

And the OSCAR goes to........

2011-02-26T08:07:00.001-08:00

Tomorrow is Oscars night. Let me say this about the Oscars. I wish they were on Saturday night instead of Sunday. The viewing audience would be much much larger. Be that as it may, with not seeing all the movies that have been nominated for the top honors, my choices might be somewhat unfair. Here goes:

Best Picture: The King's Speech

Best Actor: Colin Firth for The King's Speech

Best Actress: Natalie Portman for The Black Swan ( I did not see this movie, but her reviews were outstanding)

Best Supporting Actor: Geoffrey Rush for The King's Speech

Best Supporting Actress: Hailee Steinfeld for True Grit

I hope to stay up to see the end... but not making any promises... :)

Let me know your choices. I understand its an open field and the choices are difficult to make.

Welcome to Our Little Corner of the World

2011-01-28T13:37:00.000-08:00

LadyCat and I want to let all of our blogster buddies know that we are moving into another

house in our locality. We are very excited. If you don't hear from us for awhile we have a lot to do with the move into our new home and may not have internet capability for a couple of days. It is a small house compared to many, but just the right size for us, with no stairs to climb. :)

English Cottages

2011-01-20T12:15:00.001-08:00

I do enjoy looking at English Cottages in magazines and coffee table books. The pictures below are of some I found online. The first one looks like one I walked by on my morning walk close to Kent, England while traveling with Willow's WT back in 2007. These homes always look so inviting, cozy, and warm where good food and fellowship could be enjoyed. Maybe a fresh apple cobbler awaits us after we've enjoyed a tasty shepard's pie with a fine English ale. Of course afternoon tea out in the garden would be a special treat indeed.
Let's go!! :)

Claude Monet 1840-1926

2011-01-19T13:04:00.000-08:00

Claude Monet 1899

One of his water lily oils

Monet in his garden with an unidentified person

I love this picture!

This Railroad Bridge painting brought in $40.1 million

auctioned at Christie's in 2008

I read today online about Claude Monet. He went thru many hardship years of poverty. Like so many painters, he suffered of poor health and loss of loved ones. Before his death, he developed cataracts. In 1923, he underwent two operations to remove his cataracts: the paintings done while the cataracts affected his vision have a general reddish tone, which is characteristic of the vision of cataract victims. It may also be that after surgery he was able to see certain ultraviolet wavelengths of light that are normally excluded by the lens of the eye, this may have had an effect on the colors he perceived. After his operations, he even repainted some of these paintings, with bluer water lilies than before the operation. He created his own garden where his water lily oils were painted. Monet died of lung cancer on 5 December 1926 at the age of 86 and is buried in the Giverny church cemetery in upper Normandy. Monet had insisted that the occasion be simple; thus only about fifty people attended the ceremony.

The King's Speech

2011-01-17T12:16:00.000-08:00

Colin Firth as King George VI

Colin Firth and Helena Bonham Carter as the King and Queen

Geoffrey Rush and Carter in their supporting roles

I enjoy period movies. They take me away from the present day; help me to forget who I am and transports me into a different time, living the life style beside the actors and story. I love the sets, costumes, and character acting. We saw "The King's Speech" over the weekend. It was directed by Tom Hooper and the screenplay was written by David Seider. This is one great movie. The Golden Globe and Oscar seems at times awarded as an honorary instead of giving the award for outstanding acting. Colin Firth as King George VI has already taken the Golden Globe Best Actor Award and is so very deserving. Geoffrey Rush is superb as the king's speech therapist. He received the Golden Globe nod with a Best Supporting Role nomination.

Helena Bonham Carter protrays the Queen quite convincingly and also received a Golden Globe nomination. Colin Firth's acting ablility shines through this role at highest levels. Any awards he receives is given for this reason only. I would suggest this to all my blogger friends as a must see movie!

Winter's Lighthouse Keeper

2011-01-14T09:36:00.000-08:00

Winter's Lighthouse Keeper

Cold, wet, damp

the keeper is hard.

Bearded face weathered

with eyes piercing yet sparkle.

The light he keeps

is sought by many

guided through the waters

their destination to finish

Though rough,

his heart is good.

His faithful watch tells

his true reputation.

by Lord Thomas of Wellington 2011

Stylish Blogger Award

2011-01-13T16:01:00.000-08:00

I just found out that I was awarded the Stylish Blogger Award from http://adrielleroyale.blogspot.com/

Thank you so much. This is how it works...

Thank and link back to the person that awarded me

Share 7 things about myself

Pick 15 recently discoverd blogs (I will only award 2 bloggers)

Contact those bloggers about the award

Some things about myself:

I enjoy playing the piano mainly by improvisation

I enjoy cooking mainly pies and cakes.

I have a huge cd collection where I've created great mixes of music to listen to

I have been in various local singing groups, one being the prestiegous Bach Chorale

I enjoy playing table games mainly scrabble with LadyCat opposite me :)

I was a piano teacher for 20 years.

I enjoy caring for plants and flower gardening

And now I pass the award on to these recently discovered bloggers:

Alan at http://newsfromnowhere1948.blogspot.com/

Poetkat at http://hyggedigter.blogspot.com/

The Big Cheese

2011-01-12T12:23:00.000-08:00

We love cheese; mostly colby or cheddar, but we'll eat just about any kind. We enjoy it especially for a bedtime snack and we have it just about every morning mixed in with our scrambled eggs.

A little history: It was the Roman culture that developed the art of cheesemaking as we know it today. Roman cheesemakers were skilled artisans, and the Roman culture developed many varieties of cheese that resemble those we enjoy today. The Romans are credited with the first aging of cheese, or cheese storage. They were aware of the affects of various ripening techniques upon the taste and character of a particular cheese.

I can remember working in a deli about 10 years ago and a lady customer asked me how thick I could cut the cheese; I just stood there and finally said, "Mam, I don't think you really want to know that." She then realized what she said and started laughing. Needless to say, I did deliver fine customer service cutting her selection of cheese as thick as I could. :)

Jack Frost nippin' at your nose

2011-01-04T06:09:00.000-08:00

With Christmas past and into the New Year, I still think of "The Christmas Song" and its line "Jack Frost nippin' at your nose. I found this beautiful photo online capturing the elements creativity. Its simply amazing how God's handiwork can leave for only a moment's time, beauty for us to enjoy. I can remember growing up as a boy enjoying such paintings on our kitchen windows. I would stand there staring at them. The windows were to the south where the sun would warm them enough to melt away the artwork. Let's remember even in bitter cold weather there is simple things to enjoy in nature that can enhance our imaginations, our thoughts, and memories. Right now, I want to enjoy Jack Frost's ferns on a window with a cup of hot steaming tea at hand, listening to some soothing classical music. :)

New Beginnings for a Happy New Year 2011

2010-12-28T07:10:00.000-08:00

As the new fallen snow shows forth its softness, so it is with new beginnings with their freshness. We find ourselves at some point to regroup, reconstruct, or recommit. Many of us feel as a new year unfolds is the best time to make these resolutions, these new beginnings, with the "I'm going to do it this time." attitude. Yes, we should become aware of the need for change....however, we must remember "for what purpose". As this New Year begins let's remember to keep our resolutions within grasp and above all resolve to have peace of mind. For guidelines let's remember the Saint Francis of Assisi quote, "Lord grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things that I can, and the wisdom to know the difference."

Christmas at the Movies # 5

2010-12-26T17:16:00.000-08:00

This evening we watched "The Bishop's Wife" starring Cary Grant, Loretta Young, and David Nevin. The movie was made in 1947. Believe it or not, two years after I was born. It is an inspiring comedy of a bishop (David Nevin) praying for guidance and receiving help from an angel named Dudley (Cary Grant). However, the bishop becomes jealous of Dudley when it appears Dudley is trying to make a move on the bishop's wife, the lovely and beautiful Loretta Young. Even though I do enjoy this black and white movie, it would be grand to see it in color enhancing the set design. The bishop's house has beautiful woodwork and stained glass windows. Hope you are looking forward to a wonderful Happy New Year 2011.

Merry Christmas to all

2010-12-22T09:39:00.001-08:00

As the holidays approach we find ourselves surrounded with close family and friends. I can't promise that I will blog during this time; however I do wish each and all wonderful festive holiday gatherings. Have yourself a Merry Little Christmas!! ;)

Christmas Wishes

by Bach 2010

Christmas is the time of year

To send wishes to those far and near

Wishes of happiness filled with cheer

To all of those we hold so dear.

May we all turn our thoughts from the hustle of it all

To think of Him who wise men came to call

His gift of eternal love continues to bless each one

While we acknowledge Him as God's Only Son.

Sweet Christmas Blessings to you as the year unfolds

To warm your hearts and comfort your souls

Merry Christmas to you loud and clear

and also to those you hold so dear.

Bach is 65 on Monday, December 20th !!!

2010-12-19T16:50:00.001-08:00

LadyCat fixed me up real good today. Today was filled with lovely birthday wishes from my lovely wife. She gave me a nice coffee mug from Scotland which I will enjoy having my coffee in each morning. Also she gave me a blue rooster. My Chinese zodiac sign is the rooster. We have a number of them sitting around. But I especially like this one because its from my Lady of Wellington. The birthday cake she baked is sooo moist and yummy. She finished the day off with a delicious chicken and noodle dinner. Thanks Sweetie Pie for a wonder birthday

celebration!! You can go to LadyCats blog by way of my sidebar to see her extended birthday wishes. Let's have another piece of cake and ice cream too! xoxo

Christmas at the Movies #4

2010-12-18T06:49:00.000-08:00

"Holiday Inn" was made in 1942. Irving Berlin's musical talents shine with this one. His Christmas icon song, "White Christmas" was introduced to the world in this musical comedy. Starring for their golden voice and dancing feet respectively is Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire. Even though I do enjoy this movie, I think clout had to have played a "role" in choosing the cast. I'm sure Hollywood could have discovered younger complimentary actors to be cast along side the 25 year old beautiful leading ladies, Marjorie Reynolds (the blonde) and Virginia Dale . Without Bing's voice and Fred's feet they leave a lot to be desired. They both were around 40 years old when this movie was produced. For a little bit of trivia, Irving Berlin was cast as the flower store manager. Even though the above pictures are in color, my dvd is in black and white.

Christmas is coming! Hope your gifts are bought and starting to appear wrapped under the tree. Merry Christmas everyone!

Christmas Open House at the Office

2010-12-17T11:48:00.000-08:00

We enjoyed a festive open house for the Christmas Season at the office this week where I work. We had everything spruced up and the food reminded me of Mr. Toast's Christmas Tea Party. The owner of the business made some of his outstanding finger-foods served with eggnog and sparkling fruit drink. We have many things to be thankful for especially during these hard times of making ends meet. Merry Christmas to all and God bless us everyone!!

Winter Scenes

2010-12-13T11:51:00.000-08:00

I found these pictures on the internet. There is something about the quietness of a new fallen snow that gives a sense of peace and calmness. Enjoy! :)

Christmas at the Movies #3

2010-12-11T07:25:00.001-08:00

Even though "Baryshnikov's Nutcracker Ballet" made in 1977 might not be classified as a movie, nevertheless it is truely a holiday special. In the 1970s Mikhail Baryshnikov defected to Canada from the USSR. Later he joined the American Ballet Theatre where he partnered with the lovely Gelsey Kirkland. This adaptation of Peter Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker is my favorite ballet performance. The costumes, lighting, and sets are spectacular. The presents are all wrapped and under the tree. Santa is coming to town; you better be good :)

Christmas at the Movies # 2

2010-12-10T12:28:00.000-08:00

"Miracle on 34th Street" was made in 1947 starring the beautiful Maureen O'Hara, the dashing John Payne, the lovable child actress, Natalie Wood, and the convincing Edmund Gwenn as Kris Kringle. It's a great whimsical comedy about Santa Claus posing as Santa Claus. From Santa going up against Macy's psychiatrist to the helarious courtroom scene we find Santa stopping everyone in their tracts as to his identity. LadyCat and I enjoyed this movie as our second Christmas movie selection. We have the home made noodles for our Christmas festivities stored in the freezer. Again Happy Holidays from Wellington.

Christmas at the Movies #1

2010-12-09T11:10:00.000-08:00

We have about 9 dvd movies that are related to the Holiday Season in some fashion. I'll attempt to post about each one of these movies as we watch them this month. LadyCat and I try to watch these during the month of December to add to the festivitites. The first one we watched together was "White Christmas". This movie has become not only a classic but is label as one of the Christmas Season's signature icons. It was made in 1954 during the musical era of the movie industry. One of my favorite scenes is the Haynes Sisters (Rosemary Clooney and Vera-Ellen) performing "Sisters" dressed in their robin-egg blue costume dresses with matching feather fans. And of course who could forget the helarious re-enactment by Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye. Hope you are having a fun time preparing for the Holidays!

Christmas Bells

2010-12-07T11:59:00.000-08:00

Christmas Bells

Morning bells on Christmas Day

Awake the children who start to play

The aromas come alive with cinnamon and spice

To add to the day's festivities quite nice.

Throughout the day the bells continue to ring

To announce the arrival of the new born king

His glory the angel host foretold

His story is new, and yet quite old.

Come join me with loved ones so dear

Let the bells of Christmas ring throughout the year

Keep the Spirit of Christmas near

To calm our hearts, letting go of fear.

Bach 2010

Winter is at Our Door with the Spirit of Christmas

2010-12-06T13:24:00.000-08:00

I am enjoying reading my blogster friends' posts with a hint of Christmas in the air. It looks like all of you are focusing in on this special time of year with warmth of fire, tasty treats, and gathering of loved ones, family, and friends. I found this picture on the internet. It looks so inviting, especially with the snow. What is there behind the door? Let our imaginations wander... a cozy nest where one can be warmed by a warm fire while greeted by friends offering divine treats and good drink. Come and join me for a festive season of Christmas Cheer and Peace on Earth; God Bless Us Everyone.

A Weekend in Scotland ~ Mr. Toast's Christmas Tea

2010-12-02T04:05:00.000-08:00

I'm sure by now many of you are thinking as to what to wear to the Christmas Tea. LadyCat and I are busy with travel arrangements, packing, and choosing the perfect attire for the festive occasion. I have chosen the Ralph Lauren tuxedo pictured above. It should give a classic look to compliment LadyCat's gown. She will be posting her choices for her attire very soon on her blog. I have a direct line to her blog on my sidebar. Be sure to go visit her in the next few days and view her choices. She has shown them to me and believe you me, she will be absolutely stunning. We should be arriving on Saturday in Scotland. Hopefully we'll have a few hours for sight-seeing. Hope to see a lot of you there and please do come if possible. Mr. Toast always has everything set to a "Tea"..... :) To sign up for the gala festive tea click http://goodteatoo.blogspot.com/p/mr-toasts-christmas-tea.html

A Festive Cake of Chocolate Delight

2010-11-30T15:37:00.000-08:00

By now many of my blogster buddies know I enjoy tinkering around in the kitchen. One of my favorite things is to fix chocolate cakes for our grand kids. I have a secret to hold in the moisture of the cake which works well. The above pictures are of the latest cake that I baked. I have to make the grand kids take the cakes home or I'd probably eat the rest of it. I would share it with my LadyCat though. However, I will admit; this cake does not compare to Willow's chocolate cake. A sure treat to die for. It is a secret receipe that she has stored between her ears. Oh my

gosh... it is a chocolate lover's supreme delight! Willow must post about it; if she has already, I've missed it. LadyCat and I hope to see many of you at Mr. Toast's Annual Christmas Tea this

weekend!

My Grown Up Christmas List by Natalie Cole

2010-11-07T05:09:00.000-08:00

As the Holiday Season begins, let's remember the quote of St. Francis of Assisi in the above picture.

***sorry :( about the youtube frame being off center, I don't know how to correct that; if you click on the title it will take you to youtube where the frame is centered ***

On the Monterey, California Coastline, early 1950s

2010-11-01T18:08:00.000-07:00

The above picture was taken by Joe Kalinowski in the early 1950s. It is a picture of a very popular tree among photographers. It is located along the Monterey, California Coastline. Joe was the husband of the late Thelma Kalinowski. Thelma and I were very close friends for about 5 years before her death in January 2008. She gave me a number of nice photos taken by Joe. I'm so honored to have these. Joe was in the navy while Franklin D. Roosevelt was president. He served on the president's boat. They became acquainted enough for FDR to ask Joe what he wanted to do. Joe said he wanted to be a photographer. Soon after that, FDR personally assigned Joe to a photography unit in the navy.

Thelma gave me Joe's buttons off his navy wool coat and also 2 ship's whistles he used on Roosevelt's boat. Joe died a few years before Thelma so I never got to meet him, but Thelma told me more than once that Joe would have liked me. How special. I miss my friend, Thelma; she was quite the lady. I will post more about this interesting couple at a later time.

A "Trick~or~Treat" for Lady of Wellington

2010-10-31T07:59:00.000-07:00

I decided to bake a peach pie for my wife this morning. She loves peach pie! I couldn't wait; I had to have a piece this morning. We'll have some more later today with ice cream after our chicken 'n noodle and "masked" potatoes dinner. Come on over and have a piece! Happiest of Halloweeness! **My latest header picture was taken this morning while on my brisk morning walk.**

Abandoned Houses

2010-10-30T04:17:00.000-07:00

I can remember as a child, we would take Sunday afternoon drives out into the country near the little town I was raised in. We would stop; pick up asparagus along in the ditch or pick up walnuts that had fallen in the road. One place in particular always caught our interest. It was an old adandoned house that had a long lane back to it. We would go back there and our minds would be fed with imaginings of who might have lived there and what might have happened. There were stories contrived as to what happened and of course there were scary features added to them. I often find old abandoned houses along roads and I continue to wonder who might have lived there and what their daily lives and activities consisted of. Especially as Halloween approaches, my mind drifts back to places such as this.

Happy Halloween ~ I'm Thirsty

2010-10-29T14:08:00.000-07:00

BLOOD THIRSTY

A TJ Maxx Special

2010-10-28T03:31:00.000-07:00

I found this tray-plate at TJ Maxx in Indianapolis (Indy) a few years back. I like it; I like it a lot. It was on sale for $5.00; a bargain in my book. We have it displayed in our kitchen. LadyCat and I use it to serve veggies on or fill it with hot, garlic, buttery Texas toast. I enjoy taking my mini-trips to London, Paris, NYC, and Rome just by looking at it. A true savings indeed! Take that trip right now by enjoying these pics. Have a great trip! :) The Bach

THE AUTUMN LEAF

2010-10-20T10:33:00.000-07:00

The Autumn Leaf

The falling leaf is but what's left behind

As the last rose of summer breathes its final breath

The leaf has accomplished its task at hand

To cool with its shade as a hen warming chicks

Before wind but tares its stem

the leaf shows forth its final glory

Bach 2010

Churches of St. Petersburg, Russia

2010-10-16T06:56:00.000-07:00

Saint Isaac's Catheral

Alan Burnett posted about how one can surf the internet for about any place in the world and discover many new and exciting places. I took his advice and googled St. Petersburg, Russia. I guess I'm fascinated with this city because WT, Willow's husband, has been there on business trips several times. He has even brought back souvenirs to us from there. I have done some reading of the history of St. Petersburg and have found these superb pictures of some of the many churches throughout the city. What a beautiful city to visit. Let's go! Naturally, we'll have a stop-over in Yorkshire, pick up Alan, and visit a pub or two before heading on to St. Petersburg.

Church of Smolensk Icon of the Mother of God

Church at Pederhof

Church of Baptism of Our Lord

Church of Saints Isidor and Nicholas

Church of Our Savior of the Spitted Blood (Resurrection of Christ Church)

Wellington Treasures

2010-10-12T18:22:00.000-07:00

At Wellington Court you might find something you would like to take home. There are many items. When I taught piano, one of my very young students proclaimed to me, "My mother said your house looks like a museum!" What innocent lips do tell. But I do believe she was right. What one calls clutter is another's treasure. Wellington Court is filled with items that bring back fond memories of days gone by. I enjoy having them displayed because they bring to mind family and friends I love and also times spent with them. Here are a few of the Wellington treasures.

Pitchers up above Ice Box

reminds me of the fun times I've shopped with my dear niece, Willow of Willow Manor and my fun loving sister who we call, Ahuntie Dee

" Men Smoking" in bathroom; a photo given to me by my dear deceased friend, Thelma Kolinowski

Duck cups over the stove that I bought at a shop I worked in with friends

Wine on kitchen counter to share with family and friends

Windows at Wellington Court

2010-10-10T16:05:00.000-07:00

The windows at Wellington Court are somewhat simplistic compared to those at for example blogs "Life at Willow Manor", "My Five Men", and "Life Through Reflections" authored by Willow, Betsy, and Zuzana respectively. The window above with the Boston fern is to the east on our loft where my plants can drink up the morning sunshine. The other window is to the west where day's done sun comes in from a small gabled area facing the front of our house. The shades are pulled allowing the silhouetted leaves to create their rustic shadows. If you have some creative attractive windows, I would love you to share them on your blog! Yes, Willow, Betsy, and Zuzana, that includes you too!! :) The Bach

The Many Faces of Elia Kazan, legendary stage and film director

2010-10-06T10:48:00.000-07:00

Elia Kazan (September 7, 1909 – September 28, 2003) was an American director, described as "one of the most honored and influential directors in Broadway and Hollywood history". He also produced, and wrote screenplays and novels. Having been an actor himself for eight years, he brought sensitivity and understanding of the acting process, and was later considered the ideal "actor's director".
Kazan introduced a new generation of unknown young actors to the movie audiences, including Marlon Brando and James Dean , but was most noted for drawing out the best dramatic performances from his actors. As a result, he directed 21 different actors to Oscar nominations, resulting in nine wins. He became "one of the consummate filmmakers of the 20th century", after directing a continual string of successful films, including, A Streetcar Named Desire , On the Waterfront , and East of Eden . During he career, he won three Oscars as Best Director, three Tony Awards, and four Golden Globes.

Kazan chooses his subjects to express personal and social events that he is familiar with. He describes his thought process before taking on a project:
I don't move unless I have some empathy with the basic theme. In some way the channel of the film should also be in my own life. I start with an instinct. A thing in my life is expressed by the essence of the film. Then I know it experientally, not just mentally. I've got to feel that it's in some way about me, some way about my struggles, some way about my pain, my hopes.
Kazan became known as an "actor's director" because he was able to elicit some of the best performances in the careers of many of his stars, such as Marlon Brando, Rod Steiger, Karl Malden, James Dean, Julie Harris, and Natalie Wood . Under his direction, his actors received 21 Academy Award nominations and won nine Oscars. He won as Best Director for Gentleman's Agreement (1947) and for On the Waterfront (1954), which is considered "one of the greatest films in the history of international cinema." Both A Streetcar Named Desire (1951) and On the Waterfront were nominated for twelve Academy Awards, respectively winning four and eight.

Kazan never lost his identification with the oppressed people he remembered from the depths of the Great Depression. He became famous "for the power and intensity of his actors' performances."

In 1982, President Ronald Reagan presented him with the Kennedy Center honors award, a national tribute for life achievement in the arts. At the ceremony, screenwriter Budd Schulberg , who wrote On the Waterfront, thanks his lifelong friend saying, “Elia Kazan has touched us all with his capacity to honor not only the heroic man, but the hero in every man.”

Upon his death, at the age of 94, the New York Times described him as "one of the most honored and influential directors in Broadway and Hollywood history."

In the above picture Martin Scorsese is presenting Kazan with his lifetime achievement award at the Oscars. Martin Scorsese, an icon himself in the film directors catagory, was very much inspired by Kazan. Scorsese has produced a documentary of Elia Kazan's film career which I've seen on PBS. Watching this documentary has increased my interest in filmogorphy, directors and actors alike.

We are dressed to a "T" for the Willow Manor Gala Event!

2010-09-27T09:47:00.000-07:00

LadyCat has been so excited about her ball gown she plans to where to the Manor Gala Event!!

The dress has just arrived by special courier. She absolutely loves the detail of ruffles craped around in shingled fashion. Andrea Hindleys of Paris, France has worked tediously to give the dress the style LadyCat has been looking for. The sleeveless gown will be perfect for Lady Catherine's diamond studded necklace which is an old family heirloom from her maternal grandmother, the late Lady Theresa of the Heinsburg, Germany.

To wet your appetite, she has gone around the world in search of the perfect gown to enhance her lovely features. I, Lord Thomas, have chosen the above full dress tails, the latest by Joseph & Feiss. This will ensure for a polished and distinctive look! We hope to see many old friends there and meet some very fine new ones; and of course mingle with all the celebs!!

Let's all move to Switzerland

2010-09-14T07:30:00.000-07:00

A co-worker of mine is from Switzerland and she is leaving for a 2 week visit soon. I googled Switzerland and found these pictures. It is so beautiful and I understand the economy is good there also. We can dream can't we? :) The Bach

Now Its Your Turn !

2010-09-10T09:01:00.001-07:00

LadyCat and I went up to the skydeck of Willis Tower in Chicago last week. We had a great time. We decided to walk out on to the glass bottom view stations on the 103rd floor... yikes... I still can't believe I did it. LadyCat did too.. we survived... yeah! Now its your turn ~ let me know if you could !!

James Cagney & Bob Hope showing us how its done

2010-08-15T16:28:00.000-07:00

My old barber from the town I used to live in sent me this footage of James Cagney and Bob Hope. This was such a treat that I wanted to share it with you. There is still "hope" for Sweet Willow's WT and me. We two always wanted to make it on the big screen. And I'm curious as to what movie this is from. Investigator Willow, what say you? :)

The Pipe Organ

2010-08-02T09:02:00.000-07:00

My grandson turned 7 on July 25, 2010. He enjoys his baseball activities along with being interested in all kinds of airplanes and also attending all the local airshows and going to the
air museum. He has become interested over the past year in pipe organs. He has made himself a cardboard pipe organ topped with trumpet pipes made of colored construction paper. For his birthday he wanted a pipe organ cake. His mom (my daughter) and dad designed and made the cake in the above picture. My grandson loved it and we all enjoyed the cake. Not only did the cake look fantastic, it was decilious!

Mystery Man... who is he?

2010-07-30T08:23:00.000-07:00

Stay tuned for hints...... :)

Netflix Review ~ Gentlemen Prefer Blondes

2010-07-29T11:13:00.000-07:00

LadyCat and I recently joined Netflix. We are very impressed with its queue format, etc. We have a Wii, so we requested the cd to download the "instant play" program where you can instantly watch dvds that are ready to watch upon your request. We watched "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes" last evening. It is a 5 star hit with us. I had never seen the 1953 production. It was stinking helariously funny and if you like musicals it had some great songs including Marilyn Monroe's icon performance "Diamonds are a Girl's Best Friend". This also was to be Jane Russell's finest acting which was much overlooked by her "girl with the figure" image. Although we enjoyed the movie, we still didn't understand why it was titled as it was. There wasn't even a song that made reference to the statement. We could have missed it too! :)

The Mythical Centaur

2010-07-28T06:03:00.000-07:00

The Highest Achieved Centaur ~ Chiron
Chiron instructing Achillis

Where did the centaur originate? One legend states that it was the result of an unholy union between a human and an earth elemental, while another theory is that it was the result of genetic experimentation in Atlantis or the Pre-Flood world. Except for Chiron, most centaurs were warlike and troublesome and enjoyed drinking and revelry. This half-horse half-human creature, which represents the struggle between morality and base desire later became the astrological symbol for Sagittarius.

In Greek mythology, Chiron (Χείρων) ("hand") — sometimes spelled Cheiron — was held as the superlative centaur over his brethren. Like the satyrs, centaurs were notorious for being overly indulgent drinkers and carousers, given to violence when intoxicated, and generally uncultured. Chiron, by contrast, was intelligent, civilized and kind. Sired by Cronus when he had taken the form of a horse and impregnated the nymph, Philyra, Chiron came from a different lineage than other centaurs. He was the father of Ocyrhoe with the nymph Chariclo and lived on Mount Pilion (or Pelion).
A great healer, astrologer, and respected oracle, Chiron was most revered as a teacher and tutored Asclepius, Theseus, Achilles, Jason and Heracles. He had the gift of guiding his pupils to uncovering their highest potential and discovering their destiny. When the centaurs drank and partied themselves to extinct, Chiron became the last remaining centaur. His nobility is further reflected in the story of his death as Chiron sacrificed his life allowing mankind to obtain the use of fire. He died from one of Heracles’ arrows that were treated with a poison that Chiron had given to the hero when he had been under the honorable centaur’s tutelage (see: Erymanthian Boar). Chiron willingly gave up his immortality and was placed in the sky as the constellation Centaurus.

Being a Sagittarius myself, I find this mythical creature mysteriously haunting. Hopefully I can aspire to characteristics of Chiron and be an encourager to others.

Tea with Mussolini

2010-07-15T16:45:00.000-07:00

Judi Dench

The Florence Sculpture Studio

Joan Plowright

Maggie Smith

Cher and Lily Tomlin

The 1999 movie, Tea With Mussolini, is a favorite of mine. Mainly because it stars three of my favorite actresses; Judi Dench, Maggie Smith, and Joan Plowright. It also stars Cher and Lily Tomlin who give commanding performances. It is based in Florence, Italy starting in 1935 and continuing on into the WWII era. The love affair between the artistically-inclined English community and Florence was soon to be overshadowed by the clouds of war. Joan Plowright's character takes in a young orphaned boy who Cher discovers to be her nephew. Maggie Smith portrays the distinguished late ambassador's wife who has "Tea with Mussolini". Lily Tomlin and Judi Dench play art enthusiasts who help with the care of the boy. The above stills are from the movie. One of my favorite scenes is when Judi Dench shows the young orphaned boy, who shows promising talent in his drawings, that he could become an artist like those of long ago as she shows him a scupture studio. She states, "Florence is the human form divine, the body beautiful; and you can be part of that world ~ to make, to create; to live as those old arists did is to share a part in the divine plan." The story is how these outspoken women struggle to hold their ground in war torn Florence instead of seeking refuge in their own country. I suggest this movie to anyone who enjoys the arts.

Impatiens

2010-07-06T04:10:00.000-07:00

We are having a wonderful summer here in Hoosierland. The mixture of rain and sun has been perfect for flower gardens. We planted impatiens around our front tree. They are so full of life!

Have a wonderful week and try to stay cool !

Country Houses of England

2010-07-05T05:19:00.000-07:00

I have a huge collection of what I call coffee table books. Books that are easily opened to pages of pictorial articles of those far away places where one can discover history surrounding the scenes. One such book is my "Country Houses of England" by Barbara & Rene Stoeltie. I'm sure Alan Burnett would be available to be our tour guide to some of these beautiful houses, taking us back in time as Miss Marple is surely to be found, taking tea with a friend, or perhaps even the brilliant Belgian sleuth, Poirot as he is on the trail of a murderer. I'm sure we could stop in a village where stands an oak-panelled pub which can offer the hungry traveller a glass of ale and a piping hot shepherd's pie. One such home revealed in this book is Charlton House in Somerset. Here one can only imagine what great scenes could be shared of those wonderful mystery series.

The pictures below are of the 2005 release of Pride and Prejudice starring Keira Knightley and Matthew Macfadyen. Based on Jane Austen's beloved masterpiece, it is the classic tale of love and misunderstanding that sparkles with romance, wit and emotional force. These still frames are of when love was at last unsilenced. The last two photos are from my coffee table book of Jane Austen's Chawton Cottage in Hampshire. She moved there in July of 1809. It was lent to her and her mother by her brother Edward, a wealthy banker. She lived here until her untimely death in 1817. Before moving here, she had already written two of her masterpieces ~ "Sense and Sensibility" and "Pride and Prejudice". Chawton Cottage proved to be her haven of peace and quiet to pen her other great novels, "Mansfield Park", "Emma", and "Persuasion". The cottage is now a museum where visitors can see things unaltered as though Jane is still there.

Tasty Pastry Treats

2010-06-30T03:43:00.000-07:00

Believe it or not, I enjoy baking. One of my favorite things to bake are pies; mainly because I like making my own pie crust. I found a great receipe in an old Betty Crocker cookbook years ago and have always had success with it. Above is a sample of my effort. I learned how to make the leaf design on the blueberry pie from watching my mother (btw... Willow learned this too from her and does a lovely artistic job too!...). The strawberry pie was the first time for me to do the lattice work. LadyCat gave me the suggestion how to do it and it turned out a success. Thanks to LadyCat! The little cinnamon swirls are an old fashioned treat made from the extra pie-dough. Again a treat my mother always had for us kids. Bon Appetit ! :)

A Victorian Home ~ Williamsport, IN

2010-06-29T09:52:00.000-07:00

Here is a home that was for sale a few months back. It is a little too far away for commuting to work everyday for LadyCat and I. As you can see it has a lot of character and was reasonably priced. However, there are bats in the towers, yikes! Maybe someday, we can have something like this....

The Wind Chime

2010-06-27T13:34:00.000-07:00

The Wind Chime

As I sit silently on my patio

With wind no where in sight

I ponder the thought connecting

with loving spirits gone.

Oh to have a moment of connection

with the one my thoughts turn to.

Just let me know you are here with me

To ease my restless heart and mind.

Do you see it? Do you see that silent chime?

There is not a breath of wind in sight.

Please, oh please, just touch it then.

Make merry its music with no wind.

And then I'll know you are here with me

Watching over me, praying for me

Protecting me, comforting me.

Oh yes, blissful touch of eternity divine.

You actually heard me, as sound proclaims

through the windless space between us

My heart is pounding with exciting thought

That comforts my soul, knowing all is well.

Bach 2010

Beethoven's Last Day

2010-06-15T13:33:00.000-07:00

I normally do not post such a long post; however, I found the below article online and thought it very interesting. I really like the picture of Beethoven above. I wish I had his thick hair. Above is also a picture of his house in his hometown of Bonn, Germany. It is so sad as to how this article concludes with many of his manuscripts being lost or destroyed.

Beethoven's Last Days. The 1815-1827 Period.
The Last Day
News also arrived from the shores of the Rhine: editor Schott sent him from Manz a case of wine. But, Beethoven’s condition was so bad at this point that he barely took a sip of that wine. On March 24th Beethoven signed his last will and testament, leaving everything he had to his nephew Karl. On the 26th, Breuning and Schindler went to see about a burial place at the cemetery, leaving Hutenbrenner alone with the now dying Beethoven. Here is how Romain Rolland describes Beethoven’s final day: "That day was tragic. There were heavy clouds in the sky… around 4 or 5 in the afternoon the murky clouds cast darkness in the entire room. Suddenly a terrible storm started, with blizzard and snow… thunder made the room shudder, illuminating it with the cursed reflection of lightning on snow. Beethoven opened his eyes and with a threatening gesture raised his right arm towards the sky with his fist clenched. The expression of his face was horrifying. His hand fell to the ground. His eyes closed. Beethoven was no more."
The Funerals
The funeral took place on March 29th. The building’s huge yard, which had numerous tenants and which was also known as “the black Spaniard’s house”, was full of people. It was a sunny spring day that would become a sad part of history. Beetoven's casket was followed by twenty thousand people, almost the tenth part of Vienna’s entire population at that time. All schools were closed in sign of mourning. At Wahring cemetery, actor Anschutz, who had personally knew the composer, gave an open-hearted speech, edited by poet Grillparzer: " He was an artist and a man, a man in the highest sense of the word. He was a loner, never finding a life partner to his stature. But his heart was up to the very end close to the whole of humanity. That is how he was, how he died and how he will always remain for eternity. Leave discontent behind and shroud yourselves in sublime feelings, all you who find yourselves standing here before the tomb of a man about whom we can say, as of no other man before him: he accomplished great deeds, he knew no foulness. Go home not sad, but full of peace. Take a small flower from his grave, in the memory of the man he was and the great things he accomplished. And in the future, when you will be overwhelmed by the power of his creation, call back in your mind the image of today… At the graveyard, speeches were forbidden by the authorities. Thousands of people sorrowfully watched the simple casket be lowered in the ground.The life of the great composer had just ended. The history of Beethoven had just began. On April 3rd, Mozart’s Requiem was performed in one of Vienna’s churches in the memory of the deceased.
The Belongings
In the summer of the same year, Beethoven’s belongings, among which there were also his manuscripts, were sold at auction. This auction was held in August when the composer’s admirers were out of Vienna. The manuscripts were in their most part acquired by two editors Hasslinger and Artaria, who got them practically for free. Hence the manuscript of Symphony V was sold for only 6 florins. The fate of Beethoven’s manuscripts is truly sad. After Stephan Vreuning’s death, six weeks after Beethoven’s own death, Schindler alone was left to establish the true value of the composer’s remaining documents. But he had failed to keep Beethoven’s house sealed after his death. For several months, the late composer’s house could be visited by practically anybody: his manuscripts were either jumbled or stolen; the composer’s patrimony was not even inventoried. A great deal of documents was lost due to the negligence of his nephew Karl and his family and their complete disregard for Beethoven’s manuscripts. Schindler himself destroyed a great deal of the remaining conversational notebooks.The lost documents could have cast some light into the composer’s life and work
The Revolutionary Composer
And so we part from one of mankind’s greatest artists. The noble eminence of the revolutionary composer was for many decades a paradigm of heroic life, pledged to artistic truth and pure passion. His works are now a part of music history. Beethoven’s sublime distinction is to this very day an example for all artists.

The American Townhouse

2010-06-12T06:32:00.000-07:00

I love townhouses! I would love to have one to renovate. There are so many various sytles of facades: some plain and then some very ortimental. I have quite a collection of coffee table books. One is "The American Townhouse" by Kevin D. Murphy with Photography by Radek Kurzaj. It goes into great detail of the history concerning the townhouse. The American Townhouse has its origins from Europe, mainly France and England. If LadyCat and I had a townhouse with an added elevator and a little attached greenhouse on the back, we'd be set for life.

REAL MEN WEAR KILTS

2010-06-03T12:35:00.000-07:00

I found this cartoon on the internet; however, it does speak the truth.

It would probably cost a fortune, but someday it would be fun to have

a kilt made of my family tartan. Of course, I'd beef up to look like

the cartoon... hee hee. My ancestry dates back into the

highlands of Scotland and Ireland. It would be a dream come true to

go visit Sorbie Castle and feel the vibes! Share with me your thoughts

on kilts. Don't let the high winds catch your kilt or should I say the
opposite to me brawny lads! Have a fun day!

The Scottish Bagpipes

2010-06-02T05:42:00.000-07:00

As a musical instrument of war, the Great Pipes of the Highlands were without equal, according to historians. The shrill and penetrating notes worked well in the roar and din of battle and pipes could be heard at distances up to 10 miles. Because of the importance of the bagpipes to any Highland army, they were classified as an instrument of war by the Loyalist government during the Highland uprising in the 1700s. After the defeat of Bonnie Prince Charlie in 1745, kilts and bagpipes were outlawed, the pipes being classified as instruments of war.
Never has an instrument been so loved by a people and yet so feared by their enemies as the Highland bagpipes. The pipes are a symbol of strength, the salve of the soul, and the prize of Clans.

I would love to own a set of bagpipes someday. There is a local drum and pipe band that would be fun to join.

Military War Posters

2010-05-26T06:10:00.000-07:00

While watching Antique Roadshow the other night, they were showing old military posters.

The first one above was an example of what Britians used for patiotism and recruitment during WWI. I think it is quite intriquing.

It is a drawing of Lord Herbert Kitchener. His greatest achievement was, having inherited a continental commitment, to provide an army capable of meeting it. Kitchener's faults, such as a lack of organization and a tendency to attempt to do too much on his own, remain clear. His strengths, especially his foresight, his industry, and his strength of character, are now better appreciated. Kitchener, with his many flaws, has been recognized as among the greatest of Victorian imperial soldiers, and as the architect of Britain's victory in the First World War.

The second one is a familiar one of "Ole Uncle Sam" used also for patriotism and recruitment.

Wishing all of my fellow bloggers a great Memorial Day weekend. Let's take a moment to

remember those who gave their full devotion and sacrifice so that we in the free world might

enjoy freedom.

Patio Passion

2010-05-18T18:58:00.000-07:00

Last fall I brought in my red geraniums to baby them through the winter months. They were doing very well. And then I sat them out side come Easter weekend, because I thought it was warm enough. Little did I know that the bright sun would scorch them. I tried to salvage them, but to no avail. I did manage to save one pot that was set in the shade. So I started over with our window boxes and brick wall out on the patio. For a change I choose shades of pink, yellow, and purple with variated colors of petunias. I have a passion for flowers and plants. As I've stated before, I would love to have a green house to putter around in. Oh I bought some salvia too. Hope you are all having a great week. It is raining here in Hoosierland, but soon the sun will shine.

Truly an Undertaking of Magnitude

2010-05-06T11:19:00.000-07:00

The Great Wall of China is a series of stone and earthen fortifications in , built, rebuilt, and maintained between the 5th century BC and the 16th century to protect the northern borders of the Chinese Empire during the rule of successive dynasties. Several walls, referred to as the Great Wall of China , were built since the 5th century BC. The most famous is the wall built between 220 BC and 200 BC by the first Emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang; little of it remains; it was much farther north than the current wall, which was built during the Ming Dynasty.
The Great Wall is the world's longest human-made structure, stretching over approximately 6,400 km (4,000 miles) from Shanhaiguan in the east to Lop Nur in the west, along an arc that roughly delineates the southern edge of Inner Mongolia, but stretches to over 6,700 km (4,160 miles) in total. It is also the largest human-made structure ever built in terms of surface area and mass. At its peak the Ming Wall was guarded by more than one million men. It has been estimated that somewhere in the range of 2 to 3 million Chinese died as part of the centuries-long project of building the wall.

I copied the above picture and article from the internet. It is truly amazing the estimated number of people who died as a part of this centuries-old accomplishment. Truly a determined people.

Can You See the Wind?

2010-05-05T12:52:00.000-07:00

I was walking today by a field and noticed how I could see the wind ruffle through the tall grasses. I was mesmerized. It almost had a hypnotic effect on me. It's funny how something so simple can make one's mind drift to another dimension. It is a beautiful day here in Hoosierland. Hope your day is beautiful! :) The Bach

Bird Cage

2010-05-02T18:03:00.001-07:00

I have a fascination for bird cages. I've owned a number of birds before and at the present the empty cage is to my liking. LadyCat and I have three decorative bird cages. The one pictured above was acquired on our latest visit to Hobby Lobby. Whether caged or free, the bird will sing its song.

THE TAME BIRD WAS IN A CAGE
by: Rabindranath Tagore (1861-1941)

The tame bird was in a cage, the free bird was in the forest.
They met when the time came, it was a decree of fate.
The free bird cries, "O my love, let us fly to the wood."
The cage bird whispers, "Come hither, let us both live in the cage."
Says the free bird, "Among bars, where is there room to spread one's wings?"
"Alas," cries the caged bird, "I should not know where to sit perched in the sky."

The free bird cries, "My darling, sing the songs of the woodlands."
The cage bird sings, "Sit by my side, I'll teach you the speech of the learned."
The forest bird cries, "No, ah no! songs can never be taught."
The cage bird says, "Alas for me, I know not the songs of the woodlands."

Their love is intense with longing, but they never can fly wing to wing.
Through the bars of the cage they look, and vain is their wish to know each other.
They flutter their wings in yearning, and sing, "Come closer, my love!"
The free bird cries, "It cannot be, I fear the closed doors of the cage."
The cage bird whispers, "Alas, my wings are powerless and dead."

Old Barns

2010-04-27T04:12:00.000-07:00

OLD MAN CALLING

Still standing,weathered and kanted.
A thousand winds could not topple this old man.The keeper of Hay, and apples, vinyard concorde,Purple.
Sweet days of buzzing things, The pungeant aroma of grain freshly threshed.

exerpts from a poem by William Burkholder

I took the above pictures a couple of weeks ago in Benton County, Indiana. Last weekend on America Heartland on PBS, they were showing how they are now taking old barns and refurbishing them. The wood is still very strong and good. They look really nice with their face lift. However, I do enjoy taking pictures of these old weathered barns and still ponder with the thought of how much labor was done in them, let alone the manual labor that was required to construct them. Times gone by when neighbors were friends and helped one another.

Magpie Tales #11 ~ Cries from the Titanic

2010-04-24T07:33:00.000-07:00

As the old man sat in his usual spot in the White Rabbit Pub in Yorkshire he once again was approached by the faithful patrons to tell of his tale about the Titanic's virgin and only voyage.

Even though he had told the tale many times over, the crowd would always love to hear it again one more time.

He was quite the dapper with hat and cane. Being a man of means, he had the opportunity to sail to America first class on the newest and boldest of ships, the Titanic. He would start by sharing the beauty of the ship itself; how it gave the ambience of a first class hotel in downtown London.

People were having the time of their lives; dining, drinking, and dancing. The old man would state, "Little did we know that disaster lay just ahead."

Soon the ship was filled with cries of panic and and screams of dispair as things were being tossed through the air with the force of the impacted. He, our storyteller, being of first class was ordered on to a lifesaving boat. He said he could only hope to help as much as he was allowed to. He would continue telling how he used the very cane he now carries with him to help desperate survivors of the wreckage. "One by one", he said with a saddened, breathless voice as though he himself were reliving the nightmare, "I held out my cane to draw them onto the over-weighted boat."

This always brought the old man to tears as he lifted the very cane that helped him rescue people from the icy cold waters. His tale would always end with him stating he carried the cane as a reminder of how fortunate he was to survive and also to continue to pray for the families who losted loved ones through the tragedy. As he would leave the pub with cane in hand, he would walk home where he again placed the cane across the pair of bull horns mounted upon his wall. How the town of Yorkshire loved him for his courageous act.

Bach 2010

For more Magpie Tales, go to: http://www.magpietales.blogspot.com/

Chester's Jester

2010-04-22T08:40:00.000-07:00

While LadyCat and I were over visiting at Willow Manor we went to see the movie "The Last Station" which I might add is worth seeing. A very interesting take on Tolstoy's last few months of his life. While going to the movie house with Willow and WT at our side, we spotted this jester on the sidewalk. If you know me, I have been quite the jester in my family growing up (my dad's name is Chester, so I go by Chester's Jester at times.. hee hee) and I continue to be the saggy jester that I am. Anyway, Willow and LadyCat took pictures of me with this great statue of a jester. Willow sent me this pic and I wanted to share it with you and share with you the good time LadyCat and I had with the host and hostess of Willow Manor. I must get a jester outfit someday and have some fun. Have a Happy Jester Filled Day, my friends!! :) The Bach

Magpie Tales ~ Time

2010-04-20T04:25:00.000-07:00

TIME

A lotted amount to each is given
To do with as one sees fit
To waste, to invest, to give
To change, to hope, and reminisce.

A time is given for each season
Of life's struggles and pleasures
A time to hold and also to let go
Most precious is its gift to be given.

Bach 2010

For more of Magpie Tales go to: http://www.magpietales.blogspot.com/

Creative Tuesday Travel Entry ~ Midnight Sailboat

2010-04-19T17:17:00.001-07:00

For more Creative Tuesday Entries go to:http://goodteatoo.blogspot.com/2009/11/introducing-creative-tuesdays.html

Theme Thursday ~ My Jack-in-the-Box

2010-04-07T18:31:00.000-07:00

I remember my Jack-in-the-Box

though its dusty and dented now.

When I would crank the little box

and he upon his throne.

Would suddenly appear to me

as the music whirled about.

Delighted yet, to see him,

my friend at last was here

But always somewhat shaken

by the way he would appear.

Linda A. Copp 1970

You may view other Theme Thursday entries at: http://themethursday.blogspot.com/

Magpie Tales # 8 ~ The Royal Egg

2010-04-06T05:15:00.000-07:00

There once was an egg of great design

Made of the finest quality one could fine

It was commissioned by the King of Russia

To be given to the King of Prussia

This royal gift was blessed from heaven above

For their children were deeply in love

So upon its face was etched a picture you see

Of the Prince of Russia down upon his knee

As the Prussian Princess is at window in view

She could tell he was praying to the tree anew

For their love was to unite their countries in time

And all the people were excited and so sublime

The egg itself was later lost in time of war

And it ended up in the hands of the poor

It was later found in an antique shoppe

Where World Traveler frequently stopped

He bought it for his Lady Willow

And packed it carefully in a pillow

Come visit them at Willow Manor

To see the egg with swords and banner

Bach 2010

For more Magpie Tales, visit: http://www.magpietales.blogspot.com/

Creative Tuesday ~ The Easter Lily

2010-04-02T01:04:00.000-07:00

Easter morn with lilies fair

Fills the church with perfumes rare,

As their clouds of incense rise,

Sweetest offerings to the skies.

Stately lilies pure and white

Flooding darkness with their light,

Bloom and sorrow drifts away,

On this holy hallow’d day.

Easter Lilies bending lowin the golden afterglow,

Bear a message from the sod

To the heavenly towers of God.

-Louise Lewin Matthews

For more Creative Tuesday Entries go to: http://goodteatoo.blogspot.com/2010/02/creative-tuesday-8-theme-and-sign-up.html