(Live and) Dream a Little Dream

I Hate Goodbyes...

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle the dreamer) — Sun, 18 Oct 2015 15:54:00 +0000

Yes, I truly hate goodbyes but there comes a time when nothing else should be said.

I have written and posted over 1230 posts in the years I kept this blog going and above all,
enjoyed meeting the kindred spirits who shared their thoughts and deeds.

Photos are often worth a thousand words I am told and the incredible pictures I have seen on the many blogs I have visited proved it. Thank you all for sharing!!

So this is goodbye...

Life is made of many such moments and while I do not like to admit, the hours are becoming more and more precious as I get (wiser) older. Like many people I find myself facing a few challenges and I value privacy more than anything else at this time.

I wanted to thank each and every person who so kindly visited and commented on posts! I treasure each friendly line!

Winnie said it so much better than I!

God bless,

When Calls The Heart, DVD reviews

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle the dreamer) — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 17:44:00 +0000

Studio: Shout! Factory
DVD Release Date: September 8, 2015
Run Time: 84 minutes

ASIN: B00YTSH1YC

OVERVIEW

From celebrated author Janette Oke (The Love Comes Softly series) comes a rigorous and romantic adventure as epic as the wide frontier. Erin Krakow (Army Wives), Daniel Lissing (Eye Candy), Jack Wagner (Melrose Place) and Lori Loughlin (Full House, 90210) star in When Calls The Heart, "a beautiful story with roots in relationships, self-empowerment, and the enduring power of love", (Common Sense Media).

Jack and Elizabeth leave Hope Valley and rush back to the city of Hamilton when they learn that Jacks’ brother, Tom, was involved in an automobile accident... with Elizabeth’s sister, Julie! But Tom and Julie are hiding something about the incident, a deceit that puts Jack and Elizabeth at odds with their families… and with each other. Their trip is further complicated when Tom and Julie endeavor to run off together (via train this time) and Elizabeth’s father offers Jack a job: an offer that puts Jack and Elizabeth’s fledgling romance in peril yet again.

Studio: Shout! Factory
DVD Release Date: October 13, 2015
Run Time: 84 minutes
ASIN: B0112HPTSC

OVERVIEW:

While Jack and Elizabeth’s relationship has cooled following their arguments in Hamilton, Jack is hot on the trail of a counterfeiter right in Hope Valley! When he finds the culprit, a two-fisted brawl ensues as Jack apprehends the man. Seeing Jack in danger prompts Elizabeth to confront her feelings and seek him out… but she inadvertently sets Rip, Jack’s dog, loose at the same time. As a violent storm bears down on Hope Valley, Jack and Elizabeth search for Rip and take shelter in an old mineshaft together. But the storm won’t be escaped so easily, and the unstable shaft begins to collapse…

My thoughts on both offerings:

My family has enjoyed very much this series inspired by Janette Oke's novel of the rugged Canadian frontier. From the exclusive behind the scenes interviews it appears the actors also feels the same and perhaps we might see more episodes in the future!

In these latest two episodes of When Calls The Heart we see a deeper relationship evolving between the honest and trustworthy Mountie and Elizabeth the city born teacher whilst both characters demonstrated their love and care for Hope Valley, the community they live in and its citizens.
Of course as in any relationship there are always some rocky moments...
And if some of the developments are a little predictable, it is easily forgiven as we find our favourites amongst the series. Let's not forget the great sceneries and beautiful costumes!

There is no denying the chemistry between both main characters is owed to a good script and the sterling reputation of its director!
When Calls The Heart series 1 and 2 reminds us of Little House On The Prairie, a timeless sitcom any family may sit down with and enjoy even today.
So When Calls The Heart continues in a tradition of good family entertainment with excellent values for young viewers to grow with at the opposite of Hollywood's often tasteless assaults on our senses!

This Hallmark series is well worth checking if you are looking for something to gather the family around and spend quality time!

5 Stars for both episodes!!

Michael Landon Jr. – Executive Producer: Michael Landon Jr., son of the late television legend Michael Landon, has been in the film business for over 25 years. With two of the highest rated films in the history of the Hallmark channel, and several top ten releases targeted to the Christian market, Michael has become known for creating heartfelt, inspiring films that connect to the family. He has developed and/or produced, directed, and written screenplays for Fox, CBS, NBC, Disney, Sony, Lifetime, and others.

About Word Entertainment: A leader in the music industry for over 60 years, Word Entertainment, a Warner/Curb company, is a unique, comprehensive entertainment company comprised of multi-faceted artist service departments including publishing, merchandising, booking, and online initiatives. Word Entertainment represents some of the top names and brands in music, including Meredith Andrews, Chris August, BarlowGirl, Francesca Battistelli, Big Daddy Weave, Jason Castro, Patrick Ryan Clark, Everfound, for KING and COUNTRY, Group 1 Crew, Love and The Outcome, Dara Maclean, Point Of Grace and Sidewalk Prophets and is home to 25 Entertainment, Word Distribution (representing Curb Records and Big Idea/VeggieTales among others), Word Print, Word Films, Word Music Publishing and Word Label Group’s Word Records, Word Worship and Fervent Records.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of the DVD courtesy of EDIFY MEDIA Inc. as part of the series promotion. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Adrenaline, DVD review

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle the dreamer) — Fri, 16 Oct 2015 17:36:00 +0000

Studio: Word Films
DVD Release Date: September 8, 2015
Run Time: 93 minutes
ASIN: B00ZCIQ3U6

OVERVIEW:

After a crash leaves him paralyzed, drag racer Joseph Jenkins thinks his life is over. But his hospital roommate Elijah slowly gives him new perspective. When he returns home, his Uncle Paul gets him competing again---and winning. But can he face his nemesis Jason Skynard, the man he was challenging when the accident happened?

My thoughts:

Sometime life takes such a turn we think all is over and it is certainly the case for Joseph when he crashes and finds himself in hospital.
There is however no rain without a rainbow and meeting Elijah is definitively the turnover point in Joseph's life who reluctantly learns to appreciate the older man's humour as he waits patiently for a heart transplant. For Elijah, everything is possible with God by your side, even the strength of living in and out of hospital for the last 40 years.
For Joseph, life without the thrill of racing feels hopeless but his friendly therapist tells him there is always hope and with hard work, nothing is impossible.

This is story that will touch you on many levels even if you are not into drag racing! John Schneider brings us as usual his own brand of faith and the supporting cast showcases well all the emotions each of the characters feels as the story develops.

I give it a 4 stars!

About Word Entertainment: A leader in the music industry for over 60 years, Word Entertainment, a Warner/Curb company, is a unique, comprehensive entertainment company comprised of multi-faceted artist service departments including publishing, merchandising, booking, and online initiatives. Word Entertainment represents some of the top names and brands in music, including Meredith Andrews, Chris August, BarlowGirl, Francesca Battistelli, Big Daddy Weave, Jason Castro, Patrick Ryan Clark, Everfound, for KING and COUNTRY, Group 1 Crew, Love & The Outcome, Dara Maclean, Point Of Grace and Sidewalk Prophets and is home to 25 Entertainment, Word Distribution (representing Curb Records and Big Idea/Veggie Tales among others), Word Print, Word Films, Word Music Publishing and Word Label Group’s Word Records, Word Worship and Fervent Records.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of the DVD courtesy of EDIFY MEDIA Inc. as part of the series promotion. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Faces Of Courage: Intimate Portraits Of Women On The Edge

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle the dreamer) — Thu, 15 Oct 2015 17:03:00 +0000

Hardcover: 344 pages
Publisher: Val De Grace (October 14, 2015)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-0984884988

Overview:

Mark Tuschman is a man on a quest. For the past decade, he has journeyed across much of the developing world documenting the travails and triumphs of women living in very difficult circumstances. On a daily basis, millions of these women face crippling poverty, sexual violence, serious health problems for themselves and their children, and often a total denial of even their most basic human rights.

In this extraordinary photo expose, Tuschman documents it all, along with the efforts by many international organizations, aid groups, and doctors and nurses to help these women and girls cope, heal, stand up for themselves and become all they can be. This is reality in the raw, but as Tuschman shows us, these women have an almost unbelievable strength and resilience, and theirs are faces of incomparable dignity and courage.
The book comes with endorsements from major figures in the world of women’s health and human rights.

My thoughts:

Look deeply into the photo above and now read its description:

- In the rural Pali district of Rajasthan, India, where child marriage is widely practiced, American photographer Mark Tuschman is at the home of young Kala, a child bride. Elegantly dressed for her portrait in a red sari, she looks into the lens of Tuschman’s camera with great dignity. Kala was married when she was three months old so that her family could avoid the payment of a dowry. She is now 13 and in seventh grade. She is still living with her parents, but will soon go to her husband’s home where she will be deprived of the rest of her childhood, trapped in a cycle of poverty that will include years of household labor and childrearing and very possibly, domestic abuse.-

Let me first say upfront I have yet to read this (newly released) compilation of what too many women face everyday in our world but it immediately grabbed my interest!

Marc Tuschman was unknown to me when I spotted the cover of his book and the related article (see HERE) but I immediately sensed this is a man who through the lenses of his camera brings us stories of unparalleled dimension.

There you will find the many faces of hunger, deprivation, despair, faces that reminds us the viewers of child marriages leading too often to teen pregnancy, dowry abuse and domestic violence including rape, human trafficking and prostitution to name only a few...

Editorial reviews tells us it would appear the most remarkable of Tuschman's achievement is that it also reflect the hope each and everyone of these women hold deep into their heart...

I recommend you purchase, beg or borrow this one as I will!!

"Faces of Courage is a photo essay of staggering importance. Tuschman has traveled the world to bring back portraits of girls and women struggling against great odds to make something of their lives. His riveting photos open up a window into the hearts and souls of women and girls fighting violence, poor health, oppression, and lack of opportunity. This book will become a part of you and will encourage you in your efforts to make a difference in the world."

- Ruth W. Messinger
President of the American Jewish World Service

About the Author:

For nearly a decade, Tuschman , a veteran freelance photographer of over 35 years, traveled to seventeen countries—India, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Laos, and Indonesia in Asia; Ghana, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania and Malawi in Africa; and Nicaragua, Guatemala, Peru, Ecuador and Trinidad in Latin America.

Note to Readers: I would count this book as an excellent gift idea for the Holidays and NO I was not asked to mention this book by anyone!

Breast Cancer Awareness and Knitting

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle the dreamer) — Mon, 05 Oct 2015 18:00:00 +0000

(Photo source Google)

I always enjoy visiting other blogs sites and 2 Bags Full (you'll love her latest creation!) reminded me only this week of a very important fact:

This October is once again National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Breast cancer is the second most common kind of cancer in women. About 1 in 8 women born today in the United States will get breast cancer at some point.
The lifetime risk of cancer in women in the UK continues to rise just as fast (see statistics HERE).
The good news is that many women can survive breast cancer if it’s found and treated early.

• If you are a woman age 40 to 49, talk with your doctor about when to start getting mammograms and how often to get them.

• If you are a woman age 50 to 74, be sure to get a mammogram every 2 years. You may also choose to get them more often.

Talk to a doctor about your risk for breast cancer, especially if a close family member of yours has had breast or ovarian cancer. Your doctor can help you decide when and how often to get mammograms.

As the daughter of a breast cancer survivor, I take this advice seriously and awaited with some trepidation the results of last year's biopsy...my own! With the upcoming of an MRI of the suspicious breast this year, I urge every woman to take the step...
As any good boy scout will tell you, BE PREPARED is a good motto in this ongoing battle. Don't wait!

And now calling all knitters...Autumn is here and most of us find the season perfect to pick up our knitting needles!

This October The Campaign for Wool will mark the beginning of UK Wool Week 2015 by partnering with some of the world’s most prestigious tailors, menswear brands and cloth producers.

Here is a sample of activities:
Monday 5th October 2015 saw two sheep breeds grazing ...the length of Savile Row!

On Friday 9th October, The Campaign for Wool will be supporting ‘Woolly Hat Day’ in support of ‘The Mission to Seafarers’ charity that provides care for seafarers around the world. In the US, there is the Christmas at Sea program: be sure to check it out!

There are many activities across the UK alone so check it out (HERE) and (HERE) and don't miss related events from around the globe (HERE)!

Finally let me advocate stress (any!) has been shown to lighten up with any good hobby.
Knitting happens to be one of those for me (sketching is another) and if you are a kindred spirit, you know what I mean. Knit one, purl one...pushes that negative stress away!

Back to knitting my Royal Luxury lapblanket!
P.S. If you are not a member of FREE PATTERNS yet, check it out (HERE)

Note to readers: Any above mention of charities, websites or blogs reflects only my own enthusiasm and was not requested!

Good Thoughts

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle the dreamer) — Wed, 30 Sep 2015 09:00:00 +0000

(Photo source Google)

Sometimes on the way to your dream you get lost

and find a better one!

On Reading And Other Things...

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle the dreamer) — Tue, 29 Sep 2015 09:00:00 +0000

As I have shared with readers this year has seen a few challenges in my life including a pesky eye problem which I am told cannot be diagnosed or cured...because of lack of research...

After seeing a fair amount of doctors, I have been told to learn to live with 'it' as no change has been detected. Easier said than done, the original problem remains and it has taken a toll on life in more ways than I ever imagine. No complaints though, there is worse but it upset my one favourite pastime...you guessed it, READING!

It would appear I must alter my banner from 'Book Reviewer'...Sad!

Still, KINDLE has been a lifesaver as I can adjust the print (providing I can keep at bay the recurring headaches...).
Thus I have been able to enjoy a few good books (particularly as I have been flying a lot lately and layovers are sometimes lengthy).

So here are a couple of titles I would like to bring to your attention if you enjoy reading:

The House By The Dvina: A Russian Childhood by Eugenie Fraser

ISBN-13: 978-1845965730

Synopsis:

The House by the Dvina is the riveting story of two families separated in culture and geography but bound together by a Russian-Scottish marriage. It includes episodes as romantic and dramatic as any in fiction: the purchase by the author's great-grandfather of a peasant girl with whom he had fallen in love; the desperate sledge journey in the depths of winter made by her grandmother to intercede with Tsar Aleksandr II for her husband; the extraordinary courtship of her parents; and her Scottish granny being caught up in the abortive revolution of 1905.

Eugenie Fraser herself was brought up in Russia but was taken on visits to Scotland. She marvellously evokes a child's reactions to two totally different environments, sets of customs and family backgrounds, while the characters are beautifully drawn and splendidly memorable.

With the events of 1914 to 1920 - the war with Germany, the Revolution, the murder of the Tsar and the withdrawal of the Allied Intervention in the north - came the disintegration of Russia and of family life. The stark realities of hunger, deprivation and fear are sharply contrasted with the adventures of childhood. The reader shares the family's suspense and concern about the fates of its members and relives with Eugenie her final escape to Scotland.

In The House by the Dvina, Eugenie Fraser has vividly and poignantly portrayed a way of life that finally disappeared in violence and tragedy.

What I thought:

I have always been fascinated by the Russian history and particularly the events leading to its revolution. This beautifully written autobiography will capture your imagination with its romance and dramatic developments.

And it all starts with the author's great grandfather purchasing a peasant girl with whom he had fallen in love..

To note: the book includes many photos to recapture a world gone by!

One of the best books I have read lately and rating 5 stars!!

The Casual Vacancy by J.K. Rowling

ISBN-13: 978-0316228589

Synopsis:

A big novel about a small town...
When Barry Fairbrother dies in his early forties, the town of Pagford is left in shock.
Pagford is, seemingly, an English idyll, with a cobbled market square and an ancient abbey, but what lies behind the pretty façade is a town at war.
Rich at war with poor, teenagers at war with their parents, wives at war with their husbands, teachers at war with their pupils...Pagford is not what it first seems.
And the empty seat left by Barry on the parish council soon becomes the catalyst for the biggest war the town has yet seen. Who will triumph in an election fraught with passion, duplicity, and unexpected revelations?
The Casual Vacancy is J.K. Rowling's first novel for adults. It is the work of a storyteller like no other.

My thoughts:

I purchased this novel during a lengthy layover (that's what happens when you miss your flight!) and thought the story to be about Pagford, an idyllic village with colourful characters strolling amongst their cobbled market square, tending their little gardens etc...One look at the cover and I thought I was on a good thing...

Far from being the page turner I expected this one was disappointing. In fact it was hard to get into it and at 639 pages, more than I wanted to read. Those who are fans of the author and her work might well appreciate it but I can only declare it 'not my cup of tea'. I never bothered reading the Harry Potter series and fell asleep not one but twice through the movie...

To be noted: A movie was made of the book starring none other than the talented Michael Gambon so my suggestion is try that instead, it might make more sense!

I'll rate this one 3 stars!

Happy reading!

When Calls The Heart: Heart Of The Family

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle the dreamer) — Sat, 26 Sep 2015 18:06:00 +0000

Studio: Shout! Factory
DVD Release Date: August 4, 2015
Run Time: 88 minutes

OVERVIEW:
(From AMAZON)

From celebrated author Janette Oke (The Love Comes Softly series) comes a rigorous and romantic adventure as epic as the wide frontier. Erin Krakow (Army Wives), Daniel Lissing (Eye Candy) and Lori Loughlin (Full House, 90210) star in When Calls The Heart, "a beautiful story with roots in relationships, self-empowerment, and the enduring power of love", (Common Sense Media).

Elizabeth returns to Hope Valley and immediately volunteers to look after a neighbor’s rural homestead… and his two children, an undertaking which proves to be a bigger chore than she’d imagined. But when Jack lends a hand, and they wind up chatting by the fire, all seems right in Hope Valley and the world. Meanwhile, in Hamilton, Bill Avery sets about busting a counterfeiting ring wide open, an endeavor which surprisingly leads him to Hope Valley, where he mysteriously declines Jack’s help. But Bill isn’t the only big-town visitor: Elizabeth is even more surprised to see her former suitor, Charles Kensington, standing right in the middle of her schoolhouse!

MY THOUGHTS:

Gather the family together (no electronics allowed), a cup of something sweet and warm and enjoy one of the latest episodes of this well known series!
Michael Landon Jr. directorial talents and Janette Oke's inspirational novel comes to life once more in this episode and the actors are so likable, you cannot but get into the story. In fact it is a toss between that beautiful Mountie uniform and the ladies' finery!

This is everything in one: a bit of romance, an adventure and a lesson for any of us: together as a family, we can overcome obstacles no matter how trivial or serious.

This is one of those series which you might say is timeless, the scenery featured is breathtaking and the ladies' costumes continues to be a hit with any romantic!

This one was a 5 Stars!

Michael Landon Jr. – Executive Producer: Michael Landon Jr., son of the late television legend Michael Landon, has been in the film business for over 25 years. With two of the highest rated films in the history of the Hallmark channel, and several top ten releases targeted to the Christian market, Michael has become known for creating heartfelt, inspiring films that connect to the family. He has developed and/or produced, directed, and written screenplays for Fox, CBS, NBC, Disney, Sony, Lifetime, and others.

About Word Entertainment: A leader in the music industry for over 60 years, Word Entertainment, a Warner/Curb company, is a unique, comprehensive entertainment company comprised of multi-faceted artist service departments including publishing, merchandising, booking, and online initiatives. Word Entertainment represents some of the top names and brands in music, including Meredith Andrews, Chris August, BarlowGirl, Francesca Battistelli, Big Daddy Weave, Jason Castro, Patrick Ryan Clark, Everfound, for KING & COUNTRY, Group 1 Crew, Love & The Outcome, Dara Maclean, Point Of Grace and Sidewalk Prophets and is home to 25 Entertainment, Word Distribution (representing Curb Records and Big Idea/VeggieTales among others), Word Print, Word Films, Word Music Publishing and Word Label Group’s Word Records, Word Worship and Fervent Records.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of the DVD courtesy of EDIFY MEDIA Inc. as part of the series promotion. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Laughter, Imagination and Dreams...

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle the dreamer) — Fri, 25 Sep 2015 09:30:00 +0000

Laughter is timeless,

Imagination has no age,

Dreams are forever.

~Walt Disney~

(Photos source Google)

When Calls The Heart: Heart And Soul, DVD review

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle the dreamer) — Wed, 23 Sep 2015 21:33:00 +0000

Studio: Shout! Factory
DVD Release Date: June 23, 2015
Run Time: 88 minutes
ASIN: B00UART216

Overview:

From celebrated author Janette Oke (The Love Comes Softly series) comes a rigorous and romantic adventure as epic as the wide frontier. Erin Krakow (Army Wives), Daniel Lissing (Eye Candy) and Lori Laughlin (Full House, 90210) star in When Calls The Heart, "a beautiful story with roots in relationships, self-empowerment, and the enduring power of love", (Common Sense Media).

Further complicating their new romance, Jack and Elizabeth must part company so that Jack can return to Hope Valley and his duties as a Mountie. Elizabeth, however, remains in Hamilton, where she finds herself tending to her family and spending time with the handsome Charles Kensington. Meanwhile, back in Hope Valley, Rosemary has been offered a role in a play in San Francisco and makes preparations to leave with her two producers. When Jack learns that the "producers", have taken Rosemary in the opposite direction, for New York, he races after them to rescue her… a gamble that ends up being the talk of the town when they spend a night together

(Source Amazon)

My thoughts:

An Hallmark favourite with many to date who remember Little House On The Prairie sitcom, this series is inspired by Janette Oke's novel about the rugged Canadian frontier and produced by non other than Michael Landon Jr.

So far each episode highlighted the life in a small frontier town which depend entirely on mining until the company proves to be guilty of endangering its employees and forced to close its doors.
Enter a lumber company, new faces and of course new developments. Our heroes remain the amiable Mountie and the young socialite turned teacher, both ready to make a difference in the community.

An enduring series, When Calls The Heart: Heart and Soul is perfect for family viewing and offers a chance to chat about good Christian values without laying a heavy hand.

Heart and Soul episode features Elizabeth's family home and to spice it just a little, a childhood friend and suitor whom her parents believes perfect for her.
Will Elizabeth follow her parents wishes or her heart?

Exquisite costumes and great scenery sets the over all atmosphere and one can forgive the occasional overacting in exchange for clean language and no violence.

4 Stars!

Note: DVD includes exclusive behind the scenes interviews.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of the DVD courtesy of EDIFY MEDIA Inc. as part of the series promotion. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Shame On That Employee!

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle the dreamer) — Tue, 22 Sep 2015 20:00:00 +0000

We hear all too often bad news and shy away from listening to much more. That said, too much is at stake for us to ignore what is happening in the world.

Like most of you I have my (listening) priorities and these ride for the moment on the subjects of the mass exodus of refugees from Syria, Afghanistan, Iraq etc...and of course the arrival of Pope Francis in the US.

I cannot imagine for a moment what these families have experienced as they flee their countries, often leaving loved ones behind, hoping to find a measure of security and a future for their children! My prayers goes to them!

As to Pope Francis, I find this man of peace the one true hope for our world!

Injustice has changed the face of our Earth, and too often we believe it is not our responsibility to do something about it.

I am certain Pope Francis will make a few people squirm in the next few days...

And now for Axel and his companion (see photo above):

'Captain Jason Haag, a former Marine who served tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, was attending a gala for Service Dog of the Year in Los Angeles where his German shepherd, Axel, was awarded the top honor.

Jason Haag and his wife were scheduled to fly home to Fredericksburg, Va. after the event but as they were boarding, an American Airlines gate agent reportedly pulled him out of the line, told the veteran the flight was full and demanded proof that Axel was a real service dog.'
(source HERE)

Really Folks? This honourable man served his country yet both he and his rightwing 'man' (Axel in this case) and family were subject to such indifference?

For shame!

Note: I do not like to voice an opinion usually but this one felt like a good cause! Where would we be without our veterans and the men and women who serve God and Country!!

Amongst The Broken Dreams...

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle the dreamer) — Sat, 19 Sep 2015 20:51:00 +0000

(Photo source © AP Photo/Brian Skoloff)

As one owner who thought her mountain cabin has gone up in smoke this Summer, I can only imagine the heavy heart of Thumper's owner when he thought her lost!

Officials no longer let residents return in Middletown, California, since the fire erupted Saturday about 100 miles north of San Francisco, scorching thousands of acres and reducing more than 800 homes to ash.
Amongst them a 76 year old man named Ross thought he lost his best friend...

When a journalist offered to check out the area, I imagine he never guessed the outcome!

As you can see in the above photo this Thursday, Sept. 17, 2015, Associated Press reporter Brian Skoloff pets "Thumper," a 70-pound lab, moments after the dog crawled out from beneath a crawl space of her owner's home, covered in ash and soot.

You can read the whole story (HERE) and see Thumper on her way to be reunited with her master!

Way to go Brian!!

For Lucienne

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle the dreamer) — Fri, 18 Sep 2015 19:08:00 +0000

(Photo source HERE)

You probably know how it feels...Wherever you are, you find yourself yearning to be elsewhere...

SKYPE helps of course but it is not the same as being near your loved ones. And sharing daily news means you feel what the others experience and you want to help, knowing all you can do from afar is offer prayers and encouragement.

And sometime you are so thoroughly confused you need a little help...just to keep sane...

I found the above print and could not resist sharing: it features a Corgi and MAC the Corgi gave his seal of approval!

And now I repeat...again and again...

Lord, make me an instrument of Thy peace;

where there is hatred, let me sow love;

where there is injury, pardon;

where there is doubt, faith;

where there is despair, hope;

where there is darkness, light;

and where there is sadness, joy.

(Source St Francis prayer)

Note: This post was written for a dear friend who only a few months after being the victim of a hit and skip accident (yes, the driver actually left the scene) and suffered countless brain surgeries as a result now slipped in the bathroom and broke a vertebra...

Our prayers goes to you Lucienne!

Ucommon: Find Your Voice, DVD review

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle the dreamer) — Thu, 17 Sep 2015 22:25:00 +0000

Overview:

When the students of Rosewood High School lose their theater, music and dance departments due to budgets cuts, they create their own. Struggling to find the right script, music & choreography the students get advice from an uncommon source; the Bible!

Each student becomes uniquely influenced as they discover that God takes them personally. Equipped with unique talents, they bond together to prepare the perfect production by exploring the diversity of parables taught in the Bible. Fighting overwhelming challenges, the teens fight against political correctness to defend their privilege to worship, meet and perform.

Will months of constant bullying by the establishment defeat the production and dismantle their faith?Armed with expert legal counsel and unexpected help from Christian music’s finest, these teens realize what it means to be…UNCOMMON!

My thoughts:

Released on 1 Septembre 2015 Uncommon is definitively the sort of movie reminding you that we too often take the path of least resistance. Why else have we failed to oppose a school system where God has no place?

When do we take a stand for what we believe into? When do we fight back and really show our children what can be achieved when we 'love one another as He loves us'?

The story behind this movie is not the sort that will break the box offices by all means but you will remember and appreciate the earnest acting and familiar faces. The heartening message behind UNCOMMON will inspire anyone who believe in peace. Our world has turned a blind eye on violence and bullying too often, particularly in our schools. Let's share this movie with any young adult to show them it is 'cool' to make a difference and fight for what is right!

A good family movie earning 5 stars!

75 Years Ago

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle the dreamer) — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 08:00:00 +0000

They were very young, they were incredibly brave and as Churchill said: "Never before in human history was so much owed by so many to so few."

It was 1940 and on that critical 15 Septembre, Royal Air Force pilots fought desperately to withstand the onslaught of the Lutchwaffe as they attempted to gain control of British air space.

Of these 2936 courageous young men, 544 lost their lives, many were killed in action, others were missing, never to be heard of again.

At war since 1939, Britain stood firm and never gave up despite the many losses of lives. Four months later, the longest single battle fought in the air was abandoned by Nazi Germany.

It took another five years for peace to return and too many dreams were lost.

(Photos source HERE)

Today we remember and salute these valiant R.A.F. pilots!

We Shall Never Forget...

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle the dreamer) — Fri, 11 Sep 2015 15:31:00 +0000

"The future beckoned and it looked promising. That promise was quickly dimmed, however, on a bright, sun-filled Tuesday morning in September when four airliners were hijacked.

Two of the aircraft struck the financial nerve center of America, one struck at the heart of the U.S. Armed Forces and the final airliner, allegedly aimed at the very head of our government, slammed into the Pennsylvania countryside.

On Sept. 11, 2001, nearly 3,500 people lost their lives in less time than it takes to watch the average movie. The world was changed forever."

(Photo source and excerpt HERE)

So much has been written about that fatal day yet how to express the bewilderment and sadness which follows...

In thoughts and prayers with the many families who faced such a tragedy,

The Best Of News...

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle the dreamer) — Mon, 07 Sep 2015 20:24:00 +0000

A simple phone call can bring such wonderful news...
Our mountain cabin made it through the wild land fires!

It was reported that firefighters brought a bulldozer to build a firewall, clear trees and brushes and thus prevent any substantial loss to our 20 acres.
We are forever in their debt! Their tremendous courage and thoughtfulness helped us to retain a little piece of paradise.

Thank you Folks and God bless!!!!

Of Men And Heroes...

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle the dreamer) — Wed, 02 Sep 2015 17:24:00 +0000

(Photo source Omak Chronicle)

It seems only yesterday I received news in Brussels telling me our mountain cabin was right in the middle of one of the worst raging fires in the history of Washington.
Thanks to a helpful British Airlines representative, I was able to change my ticket and I am now standing by to hear whatever news can be gleaned. So far, nothing can be ascertained.

One thing is for sure, whomever placed a sign above his or her home reminding our fearless firefighters that 'This is just a home, please save yourselves' was right on...

A heartfelt thank you to all firefighters and volunteers who are still fighting to contain wild land fires everywhere!
Our prayers goes to the families of Richard Wheeler, 31, Andrew Zajac, 26, and Tom Zbyszewski, 20, killed on 19 August.

More info (HERE)

(Photo source HERE)

A Moment Of Silence...

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle the dreamer) — Thu, 06 Aug 2015 13:57:00 +0000

(Photo source Google)

"The Peace park in the heart of Hiroshima fell silent on Thursday morning as more than 55,000 people marked the moment at 8.15am, 70 years earlier, when the atomic bomb exploded over the city and thrust the world into the nuclear age.

Bells then tolled and white doves were released into skies that were as clear blue as they had been on the morning of August 6 1945 when the US bomber, Enola Gay, flew over Hiroshima..."

(Source: Leo Lewis - Hiroshima)

(Photo source Google)

Let's never forget and work harder than ever to bring

PEACE to our world

FOR OUR CHILDREN!

Learning Yet Again...

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle the dreamer) — Mon, 03 Aug 2015 09:28:00 +0000

You know you are getting 'older' when you start analyzing most of what you have accomplished in the years past...I say older tongue in cheek of course as most of us prefer to think of ourselves as getting wiser...I for one have noted often the two do not go hand in hand...Ahem...

And speaking of camera, as promised I have taken regularly photos I wish to share with readers but...
guess who forgot the cable necessary to download photos on a computer before posting them??! Hoping it does not come with Pony Express, I should be able to remedy this oversight sometime in the near future (Please Daughter, remember your ol' Mum!!)

A hot Summer for most of us (try no A/C), colourful flowers blooming everywhere, tiny birds singing in the trees (yes, even in the city!) and people chatting late in the night trying to cool themselves on balconies and small parks tucked here and there...
From one side of the ocean to an other, lives resembles each other if you count your blessings as well as your shadows...

A warm Hello to everyone from Brussels,

(Photo source Telegraph.co.uk)

All You Need Is Love...

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle the dreamer) — Fri, 24 Jul 2015 15:24:00 +0000

True love stories never have endings.

(Richard Bach)

All you need is love but a little chocolate now and then does not hurt...

(Charles M. Schulz)

40 years of marriage
Celebrated on 19th of July...
On two continents...
With a little champagne and some chocolates.

Thank goodness for SKYPE!!

Wisdom...

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle the dreamer) — Fri, 17 Jul 2015 10:20:00 +0000

(Photo source Google)

Wisdom is a pearl found only in still waters.

Memories...

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle the dreamer) — Wed, 15 Jul 2015 08:30:00 +0000

It is said that memories define us and shape us. Amongst those I would rate letters and postcards, little notes to remind us of special occasions or just quotes...and those souls we touched and cannot forget...

Of course...

Nothing is more memorable than a smell. One scent can be unexpected, momentary and fleeting, yet conjure up a childhood summer beside a lake in the mountains, another a moonlit beach, a third a family get together...

'Smells detonate softly in our memory like poignant land mine hidden under the weedy mass of years.
Hit a tripwire of smell and memories explode all at once. A complex vision leaps out of the undergrowth.'

(Source Here)

For me it is often colours, field flowers or more particularly the dried flowers bouquets my Grandmother placed around the house. An avid walker, she always came home with a few blooms picked along the country roads...

Then there is the bakeries...Ah the smell of fresh baked bread...and the choices...

And the visual memories...

Let's not forget the chocolates of our childhood...

Sharing a little of what I am rediscovering little by little...

Until the next time,

Celebration...

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle the dreamer) — Sun, 12 Jul 2015 16:30:00 +0000

When you are absent for many years from home, you tend to forget certain events but the story behind this remembrance is well enconsced in my memory as a moment of pride for the nation I call mine.

A little background history:

For centuries the lowlands known as Flanders were under the rule of other nations. Known for their cloth industry worked mainly with English wool, Flemish weavers produced high-quality textiles, their largest centres located in Ghent and at Ypres.

Until the 13th century Flemish merchants conducted their trade outside of what is known as Belgium today, later on developing a lucrative market for their cloths in the Flanders, and thus the seaport of Brugge became a centre of world commerce.

Ever rebelling against outside rulers, the Flemings of Brugge massacred the town’s French garrison (an event known as the Matins of Brugge) in 1302, and King Philip sent his powerful French army into Flanders to take revenge. The Flemings, however, inflicted a disastrous defeat on this army on 11 July, 1302. The spurs taken from the fallen French knights formed the trophy that gave the battle its name: The Battle Of The Spurs.

This victory saved Flanders from French occupation, and France formally recognized Flemish independence in 1305.

Source Google (HERE)

And for those who know MAC the Corgi, it is said one or more of his ancestors probably traveled to Britain with those weavers and were then bred as herders...now to be known as Pembroke Welsh Corgis.

Until the next time,

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle the dreamer) — Sun, 05 Jul 2015 13:46:00 +0000

(Photo source Google)

I find myself in a romantic mood and wondering...

If I strewed the path from here to there with all the flowers of Spring, would you follow it and find the way to me?
Would you try?

Happy Sunday,