30 May 2008

Entry for October 10, 2007


Entry for October 10, 2007

Today I want to post some information for you that can save you a lot of heart ache. Go to the FBIs Crimes Against Children web page for the National/State Sex Offender Registry. Sex offenders come from all socio-economic, ethnic and racial groups. There are female offenders too. Check out these listings. It is even a good idea to check out day care providers because there are many unlicensed providers out there and it is better to be safe than sorry where your children are concerned. (Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for October 03, 2007


Entry for October 03, 2007

Halloween will be here before you know it. Today, I am posting some links for crochet patterns relating to this day. There so many out there that this is just a small sampling. Have fun!

Frankenstein doorhanger

Candy corn doorhanger

Jack-o-lantern banner

PumpkinPretty punkin square

Pumpkin towel ring

Jack-o-lantern pin or fridgie

Candy corn fridgie

Candy corn potholder

Witch clothespin doll

Ghost trick-or-treat bag

Assorted items at about.com

Asorted items at crochet pattern central

A few items at Lion Brand Yarn

Some more items at Lion Brand Yarn

Bag of treats

Pumpkin potholder

Pumpkin pencil topper

Ghostly napkin ring

Candy corn hat

Purr's puffy pumpkin

Halloween basket

Incognito me mask

Safari sniffers "noses" to use for costume

Poodle princess costume

Halloween scrunchie

Halloween patterns at freepatterns.com

Masquerade mask

Witches brew pot

Halloween bag

Pumpkin purse

Happy pumpkin treat bag

Dainty pumpkin container

Halloween goody bags

Graphic from http://www.halloweenclipart.com/

(Originally posted on Yahoo 360)

Entry for September 25, 2007


Entry for September 25, 2007
On this day in history 1932--My dad, George French was born. He was the best daddy a little girl could ever ask for. Even though we have been estranged for many years, I love you Dad and wish that you were in my life. (Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for September 23, 2007


Entry for September 23, 2007

Just wanted to put this link in for some vintage crochet patterns for you. Check it out. I think you will like it. Here it is!
(Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for September 20, 2007

Entry for September 20, 2007
In yesterday's first entry I wrote about the possible takeover of our town's wastewater department by an European contractor. I sent copies to the newspaper, mayor and city council. Boy is hubby FURIOUS with me! He is a city worker...therefore I am not allowed to have opinions of my own. My wages are taxed by the city and my name is on this house we're buying here so why can't I have my own opinion? If it is held against him then that is illegal. I do NOT like the town I live in but I should be able to voice my opinion no matter who I am married to. Maybe this will become a better place to live. That's part of a democracy. I'm sorry dear husband that you don't agree with me. I am entitled to my own opinion and I am guaranteed freedom of speech by the First Amendment. Your thoughts are not mine nor are mine yours. (Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for September 19, 2007 #2


Entry for September 19, 2007 #2


This Day in History 1796 George Washington's farewell address as president. The purpose for this address was to primarily to eliminate himself as a 3rd term candidate for President. He never read it in public but it was printed in Claypoole's AMERICAN DAILY ADVERTISER, of Philadelphia on September 19, 1796. Go here to read it.
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I haven't been online lately because my computer has been ailing! It wouldn't let me go online. I tinkered with it and put in a new ethernet card to connect to my cable internet provider but it didn't work. After at least a 1/2 hour of tinkering with a wonderful technician from Insight Cable I was able to get back online and running. It seems the problem was my Norton's Antivirus. When it blocked a virus or something it also blocked access to the Internet. I deleted Norton's and purchased a different program. Still have some small problems but I'm at least able to get online again.
I had a bad cold for quite a while (about 2 weeks) and I'm still feeling sluggish for the last couple weeks. I went to the doctor and when she checked my blood pressure (twice!) it is running very low. No wonder I'm dragging.
Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for September 19, 2007

Entry for September 19, 2007
This is a revised version of an entry I posted on www.topix.com under the Radcliff, KY forum.

It looks like Radcliff wastewater department may be turned over to Veolia. Why???? People when you have problems with your sewer lines you won't be able to call the city for help...forget it, they won't have anything to do with it. This is the only money making operation the city has, why would they want to give it up? Wonder what this means for us? Could it be higher taxes in the future or maybe even additional taxes? Perhaps it is because our city government has been negligent about replacing clay pipes and they're too lazy to take care of the drainage problem and let’s not forget that the money you've been paying for storm water drainage is helping to finance new programming at the Challenger Center. Radcliff's priority has been to take care of making things look "pretty" such as helping out Cardinal Health with landscaping, new street signs and the mayor's program of "beautification" that has lead to overspending and putting the city in debt. Remember a few years ago when the city finances were so bad that there wasn't ANY money in the budget at the beginning of the fiscal year? Well, the only way the city was able to meet payroll until they straighten things out was to borrow money from the wastewater department. Where will we be if this happens again?
Veolia is up and running to become not only a local monopoly but also a global one too. In an online article found at one of Veolia's own websites it reads
http://www.veoliawaterna.com/municipal.government/default.htm “We serve more than 600 communities and 14 million people through public-private partnerships." That's in the U.S. alone folks.
On another one of Veolia's own pages it reads "Veolia Water is the world's No 1 provider of services in the field of production and distribution of drinking water and draining and purification of wastewater.
110 million people and 40,000 industrial businesses in over 56 countries worldwide use our services."
Kiss small town service good bye friends. They don't care about YOU only their European/(Swiss????) bank accounts. Remember they are a French company NOT American and the French have shown themselves NOT to be friends of the United States.
Read about their integrity and concern for their clientele in an online article that contains this interesting little tidbit of information "On June 30 (2005), the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission presented Veolia officials with a list of 30 questions. Days later, a lawsuit was filed against Veolia by former employee Roger Edlin charging that Veolia Water Indianapolis fired him in retaliation for speaking out on matters of public safety. According to the suit, Edlin “repeatedly warned water officials that their decision to cut back spending [and thereby increase profits] by delaying needed repairs, decreasing staff needed to maintain filtration equipment … and taking other corner-cutting steps would eventually lead to a dangerous situation.” Veolia fired Edlin after 23 years at the utility in response to the Jan. 6 boil-water advisory that closed schools and restaurants." The article this is from can be found at
http://www.nuvo.net/archive/2005/07/27/more_bad_news_for_veolia.html .
Without even checking out the company and its reputation, let's use a little common sense. Veolia wants us to turn over the resources of the wastewater department for $1! That is laughable!
That fancy truck (vacuum truck) the workers use to suck out clogs in the lines costs almost a quarter million dollars a few years ago! Then, take into consideration the buildings, other vehicles, tools, land and whatever else is owned by the wastewater department. This is "crappy" business dealings folks, no pun intended.
Despite the fact that Veolia is set to become not only a local but also global water concern Radcliff is making a HUGE mistake. My question to all the folks in Radcliff is "would you have a new home built without looking at different builders and models?" The answer, I am sure, is a resounding NO! Then why does this on its way to becoming a global monopoly company merit such blind trust from us? IT DOESN'T!!! For those of you who remember the Bell Telephone monopoly, remember how high long distance service was? Could this happen here with our waste water services? You bet it could! Call your mayor and councilmen folks--even your county and state officials. Let the people decide NOT city council! This company has played dirty in the past, what will stop it from playing dirty with us--we're a small Kentucky community not a community of major world-wide interest. Be smart; ask questions.


(Originally posted on my Yahoo 260 blog)

Entry for September 10, 2007


Entry for September 10, 2007

One thing I enjoy doing is spool-knitting. Today I found a freebie on The Project Gutenberg . It is a pattern book of vintage projects to use with your knitting-spool! Look it over; I think you will enjoy it.
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On this day in history 1846: The inventor Elias Howe patents his sewing machine. His sewing machine was not the first one invented. Howe's machine was the first one patented that used an interlocking stitch. Howe was smart to have patented his machine because another inventer independently developed a similar machine but wasn't quick enough to patent it. Go here to read a little bit about the development and history of the sewing machine.
(Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for September 07, 2007



Entry for September 07, 2007


On this day in 1940, 300 German bombers raid London, in the first of 57 consecutive nights of bombing. This bombing "blitzkrieg" (lightning war) would continue until May 1941. (This is from the History Channel .) An eyewitness account can be found here .
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An interesting crochet pattern I found is available here . It is a crocheted cover for a laptop computer. Hmmm, I bet it could be made with a knifty knitter too if anyone cares to try. Using two strands of yarn would give it extra padding against bumpings. Let me know if you make one with a knifty knitter (or crochet one too).
(Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for September 05, 2007--#2


Entry for September 05, 2007--#2

I'm baaaack! Here's a picture of my little guy, Opi, modeling his new sweater I made him. I used Lion's chunky yard and it is a tad too stiff for my little guy. The pattern calls for Bernat boucle but I hate working with that stuff because it is hard to see where to put the stitches at! I might have to bite the bullet and try it another time. Anyway, Heeeeere'ssss Opi!
Note: My little "kids" aka Chis pictures are in included in their own album and also in the album of my crochet items on Flickr under MsSharonMarie. (Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for September 05, 2007


Entry for September 05, 2007

OK, today is definitely a different kind of entry. This one is for all my wonderful friends! I was snooping around in myspace and I saw this so I just had to get it for my super-great friends! You are really better than chocolate cake (even better than peanut m&ms)!

As far as my crocheting goes, I've finished a scarf, 2 pair of slippers and a doggie sweater since I last updated for you. I've been home sick with an awful cold that has kept me down for almost a week so I've been sitting around crocheting and reading. I'm going to be making a sweater for my dear friend's little K9 child and I'm worried about it because once you commit to something I feel that I have to see it through and I'm concerned that I won't be able to figure out the pattern or something and I promised to do it. My fingers are crossed that I can do it. As you can tell I'm not totally confident in my abilities. I got the pattern from Knitware software that allows you to customize basic patterns by entering a person/critter's measurements so you can get a good fit. Wish me luck! I'll put some pictures in later of my latest FOs. Bye for now! (Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for August 31, 2007


Entry for August 31, 2007

On this day in history 1919 (or maybe 1918--I'm seen both years used in various articles), the fortune cookie is invented in Los Angeles. Are you surprised it's not a Chinese invention? I was! Go here to read a newspaper article about it. Added: If you go to this page you will find a recipe to make your own fortune cookies! (Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for August 28, 2007


Entry for August 28, 2007

This is the latest crochet project I am working on. It is pretty easy. The only problem I have had so far is paying close attention to which color I should work on next. I have had to frog one block because I did it out of order and it ended up "shorter" than it should have been. This is a good stash buster. All the yarn I am using is leftovers from previous projects. Hope you enjoy it. (Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for August 25, 2007

Entry for August 25, 2007

It's been a while since I've been online. Too much going on in my life. I'm back to substitute teaching. The kids can sure wear me out sometimes! We're in the middle of a heat wave down here in KY and we need rain desperately...all my flowers are dying. Anyway, I wanted to post a link to a pattern for a small dog sweater made on a knitting loom. So here it is: http://www.knitting-n-crochet.com/free-patterns-knitting.html. There is a cute sweater to crochet for a little dog too.


On this day in history 1944 Paris was released from Nazi occupation. Go here to read an eyewitness account. To read a short article and view some pictures of this event go to this WWII site.
(Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for August 08, 2007 #2


Entry for August 08, 2007

This is my latest FO. It is a thin scarf made of homespun. I love the thin scarfs to wear indoors. By keeping the back of my neck warm it seems to keep me warmer all over. This is all single crochet and chains. The first and last rows are single crochet. The other rows are single crochet, chain, skip a space and single crochet in the next sc. After row 2, single crochet in the spaces. Simple! (Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for August 08, 2007 #1


Entry for August 08, 2007

Today I just wanted to let you know about 2 places I have found for new crochet patterns on a daily basis. Most of us know about Annies Attic but there is another one too. It is The Daily Crocheter . Check it out! I found a great sale at Annies Attic. I have wanted to try butterfly looming and when I saw the looms on sale for 99 cents I had to get them. They normally range in price from $16.99 to $29.99 each! A book of patterns is on sale for $1.99 too, normally almost $8. (Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

28 May 2008

Entry for August 02, 2007


Entry for August 02, 2007
On this day in history 1876, Wild Bill Hickok aka James Butler Hickok was murdered in Deadwood, S.D. He was only 39 years old. Eyewitness to History website has an interesting eyewitness account to one shootout Hickok was involved in. Suite101 has a short biography about him which may be interesting to you. (Originally published in my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for July 28, 2007


Entry for July 28, 2007

On this day in history 1945, a U.S. Army bomber crashed into the 79th floor of New York's Empire State Building, killing 14 people. Go here to read about it.
I'm going up to Illinois to visit family for the next several days so I'll be off-line and it will be a while before I get a chance to update again. Stay tuned, I'll be back! (Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for July 24, 2007

Entry for July 24, 2007
President Hoover

On this day in history 1929 President Hoover proclaims Kellogg-Briand Pact effective. This pact renounced war. What a wonderful idea! It is a shame that by 01 September 1939, Germany had invaded Poland and Britain and France had already mobilized for war. Japan withdrew from the League of Nations in 1933. Then Japan broke this agreement when In July 1937, the second Sino-Japanese War broke out. Japanese forces succeeded in occupying almost the whole coast of China and committed severe war atrocities on the Chinese population. The United States held out until after Pearl Harbor was bombed by the Japanese in December 1941. The following is the text of this proclamaton...
Treaty between the United States and other Powers providing for the renunciation of war as an instrument of national policy. Signed at Paris, August 27, 1928; ratification advised by the Senate, January 16, 1929; ratified by the President, January 17, 1929; instruments of ratification deposited at Washington by the United States of America, Australia, Dominion of Canada, Czechoslovkia, Germany, Great Britain, India, Irish Free State, Italy, New Zealand, and Union of South Africa, March 2, 1929: By Poland, March 26, 1929; by Belgium, March 27 1929; by France, April 22, 1929; by Japan, July 24, 1929; proclaimed, July 24, 1929.
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. A PROCLAMATION.
WHEREAS a Treaty between the President of the United States Of America, the President of the German Reich, His Majesty the King of the Belgians, the President of the French Republic, His Majesty the King of Great Britain, Ireland and the British Dominions beyond the Seas, Emperor of India, His Majesty the King of Italy, His Majesty the Emperor of Japan, the President of the Republic of Poland, and the President of the Czechoslovak Republic, providing for the renunciation of war as an instrument of national policy, was concluded and signed by their respective Plenipotontiaries at Paris on the twenty-seventh day of August, one thousand nine hundred and twenty-eight, the original of which Treaty, being in the English and the French languages, is word for word as follows:
THE PRESIDENT OF THE GERMAN REICH, THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, HIS MAJESTY THE KING OF THE BELGIANS, THE PRESIDENT OF THE FRENCH REPUBLIC, HIS MAJESTY THE KING OF GREAT BRITAIN IRELAND AND THE BRITISH DOMINIONS BEYOND THE SEAS, EMPEROR OF INDIA, HIS MAJESTY THE KING OF ITALY, HIS MAJESTY THE EMPEROR OF JAPAN, THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF POLAND THE PRESIDENT OF THE CZECHOSLOVAK REPUBLIC,
Deeply sensible of their solemn duty to promote the welfare of mankind;
Persuaded that the time has, come when a frank renunciation of war as an instrument of na tional policy should be made to the end that the peaceful and friendly relations now existing between their peoples may be perpetuated;
Convinced that all changes in their relations with one another should be sought only by pacific means and be the result of a peaceful and orderly process, and that any signatory Power which shall hereafter seek to promote its ts national interests by resort to war a should be denied the benefits furnished by this Treaty;
Hopeful that, encouraged by their example, all the other nations of the world will join in this humane endeavor and by adhering to the present Treaty as soon as it comes into force bring their peoples within the scope of its beneficent provisions, thus uniting the civilized nations of the world in a common renunciation of war as an instrument of their national policy;
Have decided to conclude a Treaty and for that purpose have appointed as their respective
Plenipotentiaries: THE PRESIDENT OF THE GERMAN REICH: Dr Gustav STRESEMANN, Minister of Foreign Affairs; THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA: The Honorable Frank B. KELLOGG, Secretary of State; HIS MAJESTY THE KING OF THE BELGIANS: Mr Paul HYMANS, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Minister of State; THE PRESIDENT OF THE FRENCH REPUBLIC: Mr. Aristide BRIAND Minister for Foreign Affairs; HIS MAJESTY THE KING OF GREAT BRITAIN, IRELAND AND THE BRITISH DOMINIONS BEYOND THE SEAS, EMPEROR OF INDIA: For GREAT BRITAIN and NORTHERN IBELAND and all parts of the British Empire which are not separate Members of the League of Nations: The Right Honourable Lord CUSHENDUN, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Acting-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs; For the DOMINION OF CANADA: The Right Honourable William Lyon MACKENZIE KING, Prime Minister and Minister for External Affairs; For the COMMONWEALTH of AUSTRLIA: The Honourable Alexander John McLACHLAN, Member of the Executive Federal Council; For the DOMINION OF NEW ZEALAND: The Honourable Sir Christopher James PARR High Commissioner for New Zealand in Great Britain; For the UNION OF SOUTH AFRICA: The Honourable Jacobus Stephanus SMIT, High Commissioner for the Union of South Africa in Great Britain; For the IRISH FREE STATE: Mr. William Thomas COSGRAVE, President of the Executive Council; For INDIA: The Right Honourable Lord CUSHENDUN, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Acting Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs; HIS MAJESTY THE KING OF ITALY: Count Gaetano MANZONI, his Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary at Paris. HIS MAJESTY THE EMPEROR OF JAPAN: Count UCHIDA, Privy Councillor; THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF POLAND: Mr. A. ZALESKI, Minister for Foreign Affairs; THE PRESIDENT OF THE CZECHOSLOVAK REPUBLIC: Dr Eduard BENES, Minister for Foreign Affairs;
who, having communicated to one another their full powers found in good and due form have agreed upon the following articles:
ARTICLE I

The High Contracting Parties solemly declare in the names of their respective peoples that they condemn recourse to war for the solution of international controversies, and renounce it, as an instrument of national policy in their relations with one another.
ARTICLE II

The High Contracting Parties agree that the settlement or solution of all disputes or conflicts of whatever nature or of whatever origin they may be, which may arise among them, shall never be sought except by pacific means.
ARTICLE III

The present Treaty shall be ratified by the High Contracting Parties named in the Preamble in accordance with their respective constitutional requirements, and shall take effect as between them as soon as all their several instruments of ratification shall have been deposited at Washington.
This Treaty shall, when it has come into effect as prescribed in the preceding paragraph, remain open as long as may be necessary for adherence by all the other Powers of the world. Every instrument evidencing the adherence of a Power shall be deposited at Washington and the Treaty shall immediately upon such deposit become effective as; between the Power thus adhering and the other Powers parties hereto.
It shall be the duty of the Government of the United States to fumish each Government named in the Preamble and every Government subsequently adhering to this Treaty with a certified copy of the Treaty and of every instrument of ratification or adherence. It shall also be the duty of the Government of the United States telegraphically to notify such Governments immediately upon the deposit with it of each instrument of ratification or adherence.
IN FAITH WHEREOF the respective Plenipotentiaries have signed this Treaty in the French and English languages both texts having equal force, and hereunto affix their seals.
DONE at Paris, the twenty seventh day of August in the year one thousand nine hundred and twenty-eight.
[SEAL] GUSTAV STRESEMANN [SEAL] FRANK B KELLOGG [SEAL] PAUL HYMANS [SEAL] ARI BRIAND [SEAL] CUSHENDUN [SEAL] W. L. MACKENZIE KING [SEAL] A J MCLACHLAN [SEAL] C. J. PARR [SEAL] J S. SMIT [SEAL] LIAM T.MACCOSGAIR [SEAL] CUSHENDUN [SEAL] G. MANZONI [SEAL] UCHIDA [SEAB] AUGUST ZALESKI [SEAE1 DR EDWARD BENES
Certified to be a true copy of the signed original deposited with the Government of the United States of America.
FRANK B. KELLOGG Secretary of State of the United States of America
AND WHEREAS it is stipulated in the said Treaty that it shall take effect as between the High Contracting Parties as soon as all the several instruments of ratification shall have been deposited at Washington;
AND WHEREAS the said Treaty has been duly ratified on the parts of all the High Contracting Parties and their several instruments of ratification have been deposited with the Government of the United States of America, the last on July 24, 1929;
NOW THEREFORE, be it known that I, Herbert Hoover, President of the United States of America, have caused the said Treaty to be made public, to the end that the same and every article and clause thereof may be observed and fulfilled with good faith by the United States and the citizens thereof.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the United States to be affixed.
DONE at the city of Washington this twenty-fourth day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand nine hundred and twenty-nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the one hundred and fifty-fourth
HERBERT HOOVER By the President: HENRY L STIMSON Secretary of State
NOTE BY THE DEPARTMENT OF STATE
ADHERING COUNTRIES
When this Treaty became effective on Jury 24, 1929, the instruments of ratification of all of the signatory powers having been deposited at Washington, the following countries, having deposited instruments of definitive adherence, became parties to it:


Afghanistan
Finland
Peru
Albania
Guatemala
Portugal
Austria
Hungary
Rumania
Bulgaria
Iceland
Russia
China
Latvia
Kingdom of the Serbs
Cuba
Liberia
Croats and Slovenes
Denmark
Lithuania
Siam
Dominican Republic
Netherlands
Spain
Egypt
Nicaragua
Sweden
Estonia
Norway
Turkey
Ethiopia
Panama
Additional adhesions deposited subsequent to July 24, 1929. Persia, July 2, 1929; Greece, August 3, 1929; Honduras, August 6, 1929; Chile, August 12, 1929; Luxemburg August 14, 1929; Danzig, September 11, 1929; Costa Rica, October 1, 1929; Venezuela, October 24, 1929.
Text and information from the Avalon Project . (Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)



Entry for July 23, 2007


Entry for July 23, 2007

On this day in history 1986, Britain's Prince Andrew married Sarah Ferguson at Westminister Abbey in London. (The couple divorced in 1996.) Go here to read an interesting article about this wedding and see a short video of the wedding vows being exchanged.

Entry for July 19, 2007


Entry for July 19, 2007

On this day in history 1860-- Lizzie Borden, the accused murderer was born. Who is Lizzie Borden? She was the woman made famous by the rhyme ...
Lizzie Borden took an axeGave her mother forty whacksWhen she saw what she had doneShe gave her father forty-one
Elizabeth Borden was acquitted at her trial of the murders of her father and step-mother. Go to this page to read about this crime, view the transcripts, read the autopsy results and more.
Interestingly enough, the Borden family home still stands today. It is a bed and breakfast and museum. Go to this page to visit it. (Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for July 17, 2007


Entry for July 17, 2007

On this day in history 1955-- Disneyland opens. Walt Disney wanted a place for children and their parents to go and have a good time together. Financing was tough for him so he used his personal funds including his life insurance to build Disneyland. To read about the history of Disneyland go here . (Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for July 15, 2007


Rouget de Lisle--He is singing in front of Dietrich, mayor of Strasbourg, the "Chant de guerre pour l'armée du Rhin" (the Marseillaise)
On this day in history 1795: The 'Marseillaise' is adopted as the French national anthem. If you go to this page you can read a little bit about the origins of the anthem and find links to the lyrics in English and French and also find a link to listen to an audio file of it. (Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for July 12, 2007


Entry for July 12, 2007
Here is a picture of my latest finished object. My granddaughter was having a birthday and she's a special little girl who has just about every toy on the market (at least it seems that way). As you might imagine, this overabundance of toys makes it hard to decide on what to get her. I like to get her clothes because school is starting soon but that isn't any fun for a 9 year old. So, I decided that one of her Cabbage Patch dolls could use some new clothes. This outfit is called "School Girl Fancy" and is found in the book Xavier Roberts Presents Cabbage Patch Kids Crocheted Outfits. It was very easy and didn't take too long. I put a towel on the chair so that the little shoes/socks would show up.

Here's some fun history trivia:
On this day in history 1960, etch-a-sketch went on sale! (Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for July 10, 2007



NOT!!!

In the United States we have many freedoms. One that I'm going to talk about today is freedom of speech. We are very fortunate in this country to have the right to say what we believe in as long as we don't slander/libel anyone. We can write letters to our politicians and say I think you are doing a terrible job because you did this that or the other and these unfortunate consequences have resulted. The First Amendment to the Constitution encompasses so much that when a student at a California school was discipled for wearing cartoon character socks, the case went to court and the ruling knocked down that school's policy. (go here). I realize that I have been rambling on and on so lets look at the text of this amendment-- "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances." The scope of this is very broad if you think about it. Libraries have been under attack in recent years. In 2004 CIPA (Children's Internet Protection Act) became effective. Libraries were to have installed filtering software so that children weren't exposed to questionable things on the Internet. Libraries should have a way to turn off the filter for adult patrons. Many libraries will not comply with this. Libraries that do not comply will not receive special incentives/funding provided by the federal government. You can see the text of this act by visiting this Federal Communications Commision page . When one reads this text, it sounds like a very good thing to do. Upon further study on filtering software, it quickly becomes apparent that problems abound. Critics scream "censorship" in regards to filtering software and also make claims that such software can be over inclusive and under inclusive at the same time (see this article). Today I received the above picture in an email. At first glance and thought it may seem a good idea. This is a misplaced sense of nationalism. This great country of the United States does NOT have an official language.
The Statue of Liberty, commonly regarded as a national treasure has a quote from the Emma Lazarus poem The New Colossus:
"Give me your tired, your poor,
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuge of your teeming shore,
Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed to me,
I lift my lamp beside the golden door."
Notice that it does NOT say "English-speaking only" anywhere. I will be one of the first to admit that a common language is unifying. When I was in the navy, many sailors from the Philippine Islands would converse in Tagalog thus putting the English-speaking only sailors at a disadvantage (I want you to know that this is not the way all the sailors from the Philippines were, only a few). This is RUDENESS and shouldn't require the adoption of a national language. Gosh, can you imagine having to pass an act or amendment requiring diners to place a napkin in their laps? We must remember that the settlers of this country were and are from varying locations and cultures and have enriched all of us tremendously. Ethnocentrism is obsolete and morally degrading. Nowhere does the First Amendment guarantee freedom of speech solely for English speakers.
So much for "Sharon's Lecture." May you all have a great day. (Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for July 09, 2007


Entry for July 09, 2007

On this day in history 1793, Vermont completed revisions to its constitution and became the first state in the United States to prohibit slavery. Chapter 1 Article 1 states "That all persons are born equally free and independent, and have certain natural, inherent, and unalienable rights, amongst which are the enjoying and defending life and liberty, acquiring, possessing and protecting property, and pursuing and obtaining happiness and safety; therefore no person born in this country, or brought from over sea, ought to be holden by law, to serve any person as a servant, slave or apprentice, after arriving to the age of twenty-one years, unless bound by the person's own consent, after arriving to such age, or bound by law for the payment of debts, damages, fines, costs, or the like." Go to this page to read about the history of slavery. (Originally posted in my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for July 07, 2007


Entry for July 07, 2007

On this day in history 1946 Italian-born Mother Frances Xavier Cabrini is canonized, becoming the first U.S. citizen to become a saint in the Roman Catholic Church. Go here to read an interesting article about her. She is an inspiration to those looking to assist the less privileged. (Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for July 06, 2007


Entry for July 06, 2007
On this day in history 1535

Sir Thomas More is beheaded in England for refusing to swear allegiance to King Henry VIII as head of the Church. He was charged with treason and sentenced to death. He was later elevated to sainthood.
New Advent has an interesting biography of him.
(Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for July 03, 2007


Entry for July 03, 2007

On this day in history 1863, Union troops repelled a massive artillery assault on Cemetery Ridge during the third day of the Battle of Gettysburg in southern Pennsylvania. During the early morning hours Confederate General Robert E. Lee ordered General Longstreet to prepare General Pickett's troops for the assault. Longstreet advised Lee of his reservations about the success of such an advance, which he did not feel Confederate troops could sustain. Lee disregarded Longstreet and maintained his order for a heavy bombardment of Union defenses on the Ridge followed by an advance of Pickett's men.
After two hours of heavy shelling, Confederate Colonel Alexander sent word to General Pickett that the Union troops were withdrawing and encouraged him to come quickly in the interval. Pickett sent his note to General Longstreet who, based on Lee's orders and despite his own reservations, approved the charge.
The attack, commonly known as Pickett's Charge or Longstreet's Assault, was an attempt to penetrate the center of Union forces on Cemetery Ridge. During the attack, only one Confederate brigade temporarily reached the top of the ridge—afterwards called the high watermark of the Confederacy—led by Brigadier General Lewis Armistead who, just before being shot, yelled, "Give them cold steel, boys!" The charge ultimately proved disastrous for the Confederates, with casualties approaching 60 percent. As a consequence, Confederate General Robert E. Lee was forced to retreat and ultimately abandon his attempt to reach Washington, D.C. via Pennsylvania.
(The above is from http://memory.loc.gov/ammem/today/today.html July 3, 2007)
(Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

July 01 and June 29, 2007

Entry for July 01, 2007
On this day in history 1963
The U.S. Post Office inaugurated its five-digit zip (Zone Improvement Plan) code.

Entry for June 29, 2007
Photo Album problem is Solved!...
Click here to see! (then click on link in balloon message at top of page)

On this day in history 1767 British passes Townshend Revenue Act levying taxes on America. This act taxed the colonists in order to raise funds to pay the cost of the British military presence in the colonies. To see more go here . Another good article is found here . (Posts originally on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for June 28, 2007


Entry for June 28, 2007

On this day in history 1914 Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated by terrorists. This was the incident that ignited World War I. Franz Ferdinand was the unpopular heir to the throne of the Austro-Hungarian empire. FirstWorldWar.com has a good article to read about Franz Ferdinand and also includes links to videos of Franz Ferdinand. Another short article is found here.


My crochet news--I've finished all the granny squares for the afghan I'm making for my uncle. I have to finish sewing them together, weave in the loose ends and do the edging. The end is in sight! (Originally posted in my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for June 25, 2007


Entry for June 25, 2007

On this day in history 1950 The Korean War Begins. After WWII, Korea was divided. The Communists controlled the northern half and the Americans controlled the southern half. The Korean War started when North Korea invaded South Korea. A few links that may be of interest to you are:The koreanwar-educator.org website has a collection of memoirs, mainly from American veterans of that war. They are hoping to expand to include memoirs of veterans from other participating countries.Department of the Navy Historical Center has a collection of images online for you to view.The Korean War Project is a website with information on different units and other information on the war. There is also a way to look for service members from that war.
Still looking for resolution to Yahoo's photo fiasco
(Originally posted in my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for June 24, 2007


Entry for June 24, 2007

Still no solution to the photo album problem.
On this day in history 1948 Communist forces cut off all land and water routes between West Germany and West Berlin, prompting the United States to organize a massive airlift. This was the only way to get supplies to the people there. Visit the Truman Presidential Library to read about it and view relevent primary source documents. (Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for June 24, 2007

Entry for June 24, 2007
Hi! My photo albums can now be viewed by going to http://www.flickr.com/photos/sharonmarie/ .
I haven't figured out how to put a "link" somewhere on my page besides a regular blog entry. I'll keep on working on it.
It was very easy to switch my albums from Yahoo Photos to Flickr. I did NOT receive an email informing me when the switch was complete like the instructions said I would. I don't have a "button" or anything to instantly access my albums like I previously had. I'll keep on working on this.--Sharon
ps--Notes from Flickr users indicate that this is a BIG problem. Yahoo and Flickr are working on a resolution to this. I'll keep you posted. (Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for June 24, 2007

Entry for June 24, 2007
Hi! My photo albums can now be viewed by going to http://www.flickr.com/photos/sharonmarie/ .
I haven't figured out how to put a "link" somewhere on my page besides a regular blog entry. I'll keep on working on it.
It was very easy to switch my albums from Yahoo Photos to Flickr. I did NOT receive an email informing me when the switch was complete like the instructions said I would. I don't have a "button" or anything to instantly access my albums like I previously had. I'll keep on working on this.--Sharon
ps--Notes from Flickr users indicate that this is a BIG problem. Yahoo and Flickr are working on a resolution to this. I'll keep you posted. (Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for June 22, 2007 -- Photos


Well, it's back to the drawing board with my photos. Yahoo Photos is closing in September so I am in the midst of transferring my albums to Flickr. I know some of you have had problems viewing my photos so be patient please I am working to resolve this issue. I have started the transfer process and I will receive an e-mail when it is complete. I will post here and let everyone know. I'll also give you a review on how the process worked out. Have a nice day. Sharon
(Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for June 20, 2007

Entry for June 20, 2007
When I was in college working on my degree in history I had to take a class called "Doing History." This course taught many of the techniques and idiosyncrasies of researching and writing about historical topics. I remember one assignment was in the library looking up different forms of resources to answers questions in the assignment.I thought a couple hours would be more than plenty to complete the assignment. HA! Several hours on a couple days were needed! The Internet is so easy and quick BUT to get a true perspective on a topic one must read scholarly journals, books, primary documents and do interviews.
I minored in Library Science and one class I had was an independent study class. I had to do research in scholarly journals on various topics related to computers and library users. One assignment I did was about two high school classes doing research papers. One class was taken to the library and given no specific instructions on what sorts of resources they were to look up. Most of the students headed for the computers and were easily sidetracked. The other class was given specific instructions on what sorts of print information to look for and were not to use the computers other than for the library's catalog. Needless to say, the second group was noticeably more productive than the first.
You may be asking why I wrote about this today. Well, I have been reading articles about a new alternative to Wikipedia called Conservapedia . You may be wondering about why a new alternative to Wikipedia is needed. One attraction to Wikipedia is that fact that anyone can contribute to it and is not required to submit inclusions under a "real" name. This is also a very real weakness. Conservapedia will require contributors to use their real names. My concerns over both of these sources is the quality control of the articles. What is the possiblity that a high school student has submitted an article on quantum physics? No matter how knowledgeable he may be, there is no way he could be an expert on this subject. From my experiences in acadamia the college/university instructors I've had never accepted encyclopedias (in ANY form) nor excessive amounts of Internet sources as acceptable bibliography entries so students are becoming a bit slack in developing their paper writing skills.
Give print sources a chance. I have found that researching in a library is as addictive as surfing the Net. Give it a try, you'll see!
Here are some interesting articles for you to peruse. Conservapedia article Article about Internet use in education Professor bans Wikipedia use
Remember...
Caveat Emptor!!!
(Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for June 19, 2007





Entry for June 19, 2007


This is a photo I took this morning of my son Matthew and the little ones wearing their new clothes. Matt is making his weekly visit to do laundry. If you go to my photo album there are more views of them. I went to a store yesterday that I've never been too before called Rugged Warehouse. They had a lot of discounted clothing, shoes and accessories for the family including furry little ones. I couldn't resist splurging on my little ones. Note: Matt really is awake, he's looking down at the little ones and it looks like he's sleeping.
And now for a little history trivia:
On this day in history 1566, James the I, king of Scotland and England was born. His mother was Mary Queen of Scots. He became the first Stuart to become monarch in England. Did you ever hear of the King James Bible? This is the man who is responsible for it. To read more about him go to Encarta to read a short, concise article. (Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for June 18, 2007


Entry for June 18, 2007

On this day in history 1903 the 1st transcontinental auto trip begins in SF; arrives NY 3-mo later. Horatio Nelson Jackson decided to undertake this trip with mechanic Sewall Crocker as result of a $50 bet. Bud, an American bulldog, joined them in Caldwell, Idaho. Interesting articles about this trip can be found here and here . Notice in the photo that Bud has his own pair of goggles! (Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for June 15, 2007


Entry for June 15, 2007

A friend sent this to me. She's retired navy. I was in the navy for 15 years and this really has meaning for me. I hope anyone who reads it appreciates it too.


"I WAS A SAILOR ONCE"

I liked standing on the bridge wing at sunrise with salt spray in my face and clean ocean winds whipping in from the four quarters of the globe I liked the sounds of the Navy - the piercing trill of the boatswains pipe, the syncopated clangor of the ship's bell on the quarterdeck, harsh, and the strong language and laughter of sailors at work.
I liked Navy vessels -- plodding fleet auxiliaries like the USS Ute ATF-76) and amphibs, sleek submarines and steady solid aircraft carriers.
I liked the proud names of Navy ships: Midway, Lexington, Saratoga, Coral Sea, Antietam, Valley Forge - - memorials of great battles won and tribulations overcome.
I liked the lean angular names of Navy "tin-cans" and escorts like the USS Maddox (DD-731) mementos of heroes who went before us.
And the others - - San Jose, San Diego, Los Angeles, St. Paul, Chicago, Oklahoma City, named for our cities.
I liked the tempo of a Navy band.
I liked liberty call and the spicy scent of a foreign port.
I even liked the never ending paperwork and all hands working parties as my ship filled herself with the multitude of supplies, both mundane and to cut ties to the land and carry out her mission anywhere on the globe where there was water to float her.
I liked sailors, officers and enlisted men from all parts of the land, farms of the Midwest, small towns of New England, from the big cities, the mountains and the prairies, from all walks of life. I trusted and depended on them as they trusted and depended on me -- for professional competence, for comradeship, for strength and courage. In a word, they were "shipmates"; then and forever.
I liked the surge of adventure in my heart, when the word was passed: ''Now Hear This'' "Now station the special sea and anchor detail, all hands to quarters for leaving port," and I liked the infectious thrill of sighting home again, with the waving hands of welcome from family and friends waiting pier side The work was hard and dangerous; the going rough at times; the parting from loved ones painful, but the companionship of robust Navy laughter, the "all for one and one for all" philosophy of the sea was ever present.
I liked the fierce and dangerous activity on the flight deck of aircraft carriers, earlier named for battles won but sadly now named for politicians. Enterprise, Independence, Boxer, Princeton and oh so many more, some lost in battle, and sadly many scrapped.
I liked the scent of aviation hi-octane fuel, and now jet fuel, as the men in purple shirts hustled about to "feed" the flying weapons of war. And the crews in red shirts rearming the aircraft for their next sortie.
I liked the flight crews readying their flying machines with the green shirted and brown shirted crews ensuring worthiness. And then the white shirted crews directing the aircraft to the catapult followed by the crescendo of the aircraft shooting down the cat track and into the air.
I liked the feel of flying with a fine tuned air wing where all of the aircrews knew what to do and did it safely and well.
I liked the exciting recovery of aircraft as they returned from combat or training. It was always an exciting event whether a landing was a trap or a bolter.
I liked the names of the aircraft and helicopters; Skyraider, Intruder, Sea King, Phantom, Skyhawk, Demon, Skywarrior, Corsair, and many more that bring to mind offensive and defensive orders of battle.
I liked the excitement of an alongside replenishment as my ship slid in alongside the oiler and the cry of "Standby to receive shotlines" prefaced the hard work of rigging spanwires and fuel hoses echoed across the narrow gap of water between the ships and welcomed the mail and fresh milk, fruit and vegetables that sometimes accompanied the fuel.
I liked the serenity of the sea after a day of hard ship's work, as flying fish flitted across the wave tops and sunset gave way to night.
I liked the feel of the Navy in darkness - the masthead and range lights, the red and green navigation lights and stern light, the pulsating phosphorescence of radar repeaters - they cut through the dusk and joined with the mirror of stars overhead.
And I liked drifting off to sleep lulled by the myriad noises large and small that told me that my ship was alive and well, and that my shipmates on watch would keep me safe.
I liked quiet mid-watches with the aroma of strong coffee -- the lifeblood of the Navy permeating everywhere.
I liked the sudden electricity of "General quarters, general quarters, all hands man your battle stations," followed by the hurried clamor of running feet on ladders and the resounding thump of watertight doors as the ship transformed herself in a few brief seconds from a peaceful workplace to a weapon of war -- ready for anything.
And I liked the sight of space-age equipment manned by youngsters clad in dungarees and sound-powered phones that their grandfathers would still recognize . I liked the traditions of the Navy and the men and now women who made them. I liked the proud names of Navy heroes: Halsey, Nimitz, Perry, Farragut, John Paul Jones and Burke. A sailor could find much in the Navy: comrades-in-arms, pride in self and country, mastery of the seaman's trade. An adolescent could find adulthood.
In years to come, when sailors are home from the sea, AND SO WE ARE, we still remember with fondness and respect the ocean in all its moods – the impossible shimmering mirror calm and the storm-tossed green water surging over the bow. And then there will come again a faint whiff of stack gas, a faint echo of engine and rudder orders, a vision of the bright bunting of signal flags snapping at the yardarm, a refrain of hearty laughter in the wardroom and chief's quarters and mess decks.
Remembering this, WE stand taller and say, I WAS A SAILOR ONCE."

AUTHOR UNKNOWN

(Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for June 14, 2007


Entry for June 14, 2007
This is a picture of my little boy Opi. He's snuggled up under a Mexican throw on the recliner. He often burrows under blankets, throws and afghans. Sometimes it is really hard to find him! Today I was able to upload photos. I don't know what the problem was yesterday. Just glad it worked today. Clink on the link to see my online photos. http://new.photos.yahoo.com/sharonmg1957/?change_count=1

On this day in history 1900 Hawaiian Republic becomes the US Territory of Hawaii through the Organic Act. A fairly detailed time-line of Hawaiian history is here . The text of the Organic Act is here . (Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Update: Since Yahoo photos have gone "belly up" you can find some of my photos at http://www.flickr.com/photos/sharonmarie/ AND http://picasaweb.google.com/MsSharonMarie

Entry for June 13, 2007 #2


Entry for June 13, 2007 #2

I had to add some pictures of my flowers. This year either my flowers have done great or have done horribly due to the frost we had on Easter weekend. Here's a picture. I've been trying to upload more photos to my album but for some reason it isn't working today. Oh well, maybe later. (Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for June 13, 2007



Marie Jean Paul Joseph Roche Yves Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette


On this day in history 1777 Marquis de Lafayette lands in US. Lafayette was a wealthy French citizen. When he was about 20 years old, he came to the US with the romantic notions of assisting them in their fight for freedom despite his king's displeasure. To read more about him and his role in the US's fight for independence from Great Britain go here . If it wasn't for Lafayette's assistance, the outcome of the American Revolution may have been very different. Another interesting page with numerous links about him is found here . (Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for June 11, 2007 #2


Entry for June 11, 2007 #2

This is my Barney. She's licking her chops; she's probably hoping for a doggie cookie. Barney is the result of a union between a Miniature Schnauzer and an Australian Shepherd in Muskogee, OK. Originally she belonged to my niece when she was a toddler so you can guess who gave Barney her name. She'll be 13 in October. She is a very gentle girl. She loves everyone. She is "nanny 911" with the little ones. When she thinks they're wrestling too much or making too much noise she'll break them up by nudging them apart or giving a "woof woof" to them. Ray calls her the family matriarch. (Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for June 11, 2007


Entry for June 11, 2007
This is my "main man." His name is Opi. He loves everyone (once he gets to know you). Unlike his sister Nellie Belle, Opi can go outside with me without a leash. He doesn't run, just stays close by. For some reason his ears don't stand up--they're kind of "slicked back." Opi used to be slim and trim until he had his "vasectomy." Then he ballooned out and he received a new nick-name--Chunky Monkey. He's a mama's boy although if his daddy has food, then he will temporarily become Daddy's Little Man. (Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for June 10, 2007


Entry for June 10, 2007

On this day in history 1692 : First Salem witch hanging
In Salem Village in the Massachusetts Bay Colony, Bridget Bishop, the first colonist to be tried in the Salem witch trials, is hanged after being found guilty of the practice of witchcraft.
The Rev. Samuel Parris's nine year old daughter, Betty, and a twelve year old niece, Abigail Williams played around with "witch craft" with Tituba, the family slave. Other neighbor girls soon became involved. Tituba told stories about witch craft including fortune telling. They were Puritans and as you may imagine all H--L broke out when it was revealed what they were doing. Fingerpointing soon happened and the trials for witchcraft soon commenced. The following links contain a plethora of information on the trials including transcripts.
http://www.law.umkc.edu/faculty/projects/ftrials/salem/SALEM.HTM
http://www.salemweb.com/guide/witches.shtml
http://www3.nationalgeographic.com/salem/
http://etext.virginia.edu/salem/witchcraft/
http://www.salemwitchtrials.com/

On June 7th, I made a comment in one of my entries that my son is single. I have gotten some backlash from this. To Matthew, and the others, I'm sorry if you took offense. None was intended. Matt has been corresponding with a girl from overseas for a few years now. Matthew is an adult and what he does is his own business. Sorry to all concerned.

(Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for June 07, 2007 #2


This is a picture of my older son Matthew holding Nellie Belle. Isn't he a handsome guy? He's single! LOL!
I wish I could figure out how to post more than one picture in an entry. Anyone have any ideas?
(Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for June 07, 2007


This is my little girl Nellie Belle. It looks like she's saying, "Mommy I'm too little to vaccum the floor!" When my husband wanted to get an older Corvette, I said only if I can have another chihuahua...I already had one and another dog. So he got Nellie Belle for me. Now, Nellie is more his dog than mine until it's bedtime then she cuddles up with me and gives me kisses. She's a sweetie. By the way, we get more enjoyment from Nellie than the Corvette. It sits in the garage like it's part of the decor! (Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for June 06, 2007

Entry for June 06, 2007
On this day in history 1933 1st drive-in theater opens (Camden NJ) . Go here to read a little bit about the first drive-in movie theater.
I went to You Tube and typed in crochet. A gazillion things came up. You can find video tutorials--some very amateur and some very good. I'm including some links for a few crochet comedy videos. I hope you enjoy them.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A5pJTNEMMOs
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h3f3Lw60R08
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WSqitIVLvS4
(Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)

Entry for June 04, 2007 #6


This is a skinny scarf I recently made. It was very easy and quick. I used a Q hook and double crocheted it. I used a ribbon-like yarn and a black glittery yarn. I'll be darned if I can remember the names of them. Must be the "old timers disease" my sons claim I have. LOL! (Originally posted on my Yahoo 360 blog)