FOR SATURDAY, APRIL 21st, 2007

ON THE BRIGHT SIDE

APRIL 21ST, 2007

TODAY'S THOUGHT

I am not afraid of storms, for I am learning how to sail my ship.

Louisa May Alcott

TODAY’S ACTION

Do not let fear stop you from reaching your goals.

TODAY’S QUOTE

Why is it that it seems to be so much easier to get caught up in the hard things and the struggles than it is to remember the happy moments?

Joyce Rupp

HAPPY SATURDAY

Ahhhh…sunny warm weather coming our way !

When I finally got home from work Friday, I was able to open the back door window for a while and let some fresh air in.

I was in need of an oil change, so I called the car dealership and asked their service department if they could possibly take me in after work. OK they said bring it on in. I even had a coupon saving me almost 5 dollars on the cost.

Wouldn’t you know they found something else…the serpentine belt was worn (didn’t I hear the squealing?) So I spent just a little over $100 all told and guess what??? They didn’t use my coupon. I paid full price for the oil change. I guess they thought I wouldn’t notice after they added the other on.

I count on these guys to keep my car in shape so I don’t have to worry about getting back and forth to work each day.

I also took the car to the car wash and got some of the grime off. Guess that was a good thing, but I also happened to notice a little rust by the wheel well on one side. That will have to be taken care of too.

That is it for my car woes. I’m going to just try and enjoy the nice weather!

Have a great day all ! Another wonderful one on the Way !

Please pray for God's protection of our troops and HIS wisdom for their commanders.

Lord, hold our troops in your loving hands. Protect them as they protect us. Bless them and their families for the selfless acts they perform for us in our time of need. I ask this in the name of Jesus, our Lord and Savior.

25 WORDS

God, I thank You for today, for the ways You will bless me, and for the ways that I will serve others in Your name

TODAY IS…Jelly Bean Day

Jelly candies (sugar and flavored water) have been putting smiles on the faces of kids for centuries - starting with the Romans. When penny candy was popular during the 1800's, gumdrops and jelly beans were the biggest sellers - and nothing replaced them in popularity until people fell in love with the chocolate bar. Blueberry jelly beans were invented so President Reagan could serve red, white and blue jelly beans at his inaugural ball.

TODAY’S TRIVIA

Today is Husband Appreciation Day, always the third Saturday in April

Today is Kindergarten Day, a day to recognize the importance of play, games, and creative activity in children's education. Nursery school and kindergarten as we know it are the direct results of the influence of Friedrich Froebel. born on this day in 1782 in Germany. He grew up to become a teacher, author and toy maker. The first public kindergarten in the U.S. was started by Conrad Poppenhusen in College Point, Queens, New York in 1870.

Today is National Chocolate Covered Cashews Day

Today is Astronomy Day and National Auctioneers Day

1783: Reginald Heber was born in England. He published his first hymn at age 28. His greatest hit: "Holy, Holy, Holy."

1913: The zipper was patented by Swedish engineer Gideon Sunback. He improved on an 1813 design of Whitcomb Judson called a clasp-locker, which often jammed. Zippers were first used in World War I and appeared on civilian clothes in the 1920's

1977: The musical play "Annie" opened on Broadway, beginning a run of 2,377 performances.

TODAY’S SMILE

One of Julie's wedding presents was a toaster oven. Soon after the honeymoon, she and her husband decided to try it out. Almost immediately, smoke billowed out of the toaster.

"Quick, get the owner's manual!" her husband shouted. "I can't find it anywhere!" she cried, searching through the box.

"Oops!" came a voice from the kitchen. "Well, the toast is fine, but the owner's manual is burnt to a crisp."

Is life's oven burning you?

Nebuchadnezzar exclaimed,  Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who sent his angel, to deliver the servants that trusted in him, they disobeyed the king's command, and yielded their bodies, rather than serve or worship any god, except their own God. -Daniel 3:95

http://www.cleanjokeoftheday.com

TODAY’S WORD

finial (FIN-ee-ehl, FI-nee-) noun

1. An ornamental object on top of an architectural structure or a piece of furniture.

2. A curve at the end of the main stroke of a character in some italic fonts.

Just ahead, rolling lawns and a canopy of pecan, willow, oak and English walnut trees frame an imposing multitiered manor house complete with portico exterior, dormer windows and a welcoming 3 1/2-foot pineapple finial crowning its mansard roof.

 TODAY’S REFLECTION

He is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 9:6

SHALOM is a Hebrew word that means "peace." The Israeli people greet everyone by saying, "Shalom."

The promise that Jesus made to his apostles and me on the night of his arrest was that he would leave us with peace.

Could it be that even in the chaos of my life, I could feel peaceful? Through this single, repeated word, God reminded me that peace doesn't depend on what is happening around me but what is happening inside me.

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.

 John 14: 27

TODAY’S ADVICE FROM THE OLD FARMER’S ALMANAC

 Rivers (or other water) in your dreams suggest your emotional state.

61 DAYS UNTIL SUMMER !

Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your Heart

Psalm 37:4

I Love You All !!!

Be Blessed !!!

MA

MY HOMEPAGE

I believe we should live ‘ON THE BRIGHT SIDE’

www.bigmarainey.com

MY JOURNALS

http://journals.aol.com/marainey1/GoodMorningSunshine/

http://onyama.blogspot.com/

To see archived ‘On the Bright Side’ Newsletters click on the link below:

http://journals.aol.com/marainey1/ONTHEBRIGHTSIDE/

BRIGHT SIDE LOGO BY SON #6

http://www.littlerainey.com/index.html

 

FOR FRIDAY, APRIL 20TH, 2007

ON THE BRIGHT SIDE

APRIL 20TH, 2007

TODAY'S THOUGHT

After the winter comes the spring

To show us again that in everything

There's always renewal divinely planned,

Flawlessly perfect, the work of God's hand.

Helen Steiner Rice

TODAY’S ACTION

Don't lose perspective when dealing with problems.

TODAY’S QUOTE

Children have neither a past nor a future. Thus they enjoy the present - which seldom happens to us.

Jean De La Bruyere

HAPPY FINALLY FRIDAY

The end of another work week has come and it looks like we’ll be having a little bit of Spring in Northern Ohio!!! Each day will be a little warmer and the sun is promised to shine for 3 whole days. I can’t tell you how good that makes me feel.

I don’t have any special plans for the weekend, but hopefully Sunday, I’ll be able to get outside and work in the yard a bit. That will be a good thing !

Have a great day all ! Another wonderful one on the Way !

Please pray for God's protection of our troops and HIS wisdom for their commanders.

Lord, hold our troops in your loving hands. Protect them as they protect us. Bless them and their families for the selfless acts they perform for us in our time of need. I ask this in the name of Jesus, our Lord and Savior.

25 WORDS

God, I thank You for today, for the ways You will bless me, and for the ways that I will serve others in Your name

TODAY IS…RACE HORSE DAY

Horse racing is one of our oldest sports. It started about 4500 B.C. among the prehistoric nomadic tribesmen of Central Asia who first domesticated the horse. For thousands of years, it was the favorite sport of kings and nobelmen. And just like other sports... timing is everything. A thoroughbred racehorse can only run at top speed for about a quarter of a mile. The jockey's biggest job is to decide when that power surge will win the race.

TODAY’S TRIVIA

Today is National Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Day

The Kentucky Derby Festival begins today in Louisville, culminating May 5 with the nation's premier horse race.

1832: Hot Springs National Park, the first national park in the U.S., was established by an act of Congress. It had been a reservation prior to becoming a national park

1959: 13-year-old Dolly Parton released her first single, "Puppy Love," on the Gold Band label.

TODAY’S SMILE

The Qualities of Men and Women

WOMEN

Women have strengths that amaze men. They carry children, they carry hardships, they carry burdens, but they hold happiness, love and joy. They smile when they want to scream. They sing when they want to cry. They cry when they are happy and laugh when they are nervous.

Women wait by the phone for a "safe at home call" from a friend after a snowy drive home. Women have special qualities about them. They volunteer for good causes. They are pink ladies in hospitals. They bring food to shut-ins. They are child care workers, executives, attorneys, stay-at-home moms, biker babes and your neighbors.

They wear suits, jeans, and they wear uniforms. They fight for what they believe in. They stand up to injustice. They are in the front row at PTA meetings. They vote for the person that will do the best job for family issues. They walk and talk the extra mile to get their children in the right schools and for getting their family the right health care.

They write to the editor, their congressmen and to the "powers that be" for things that make for a better life. They don't take "no" for an answer when they believe there is a better solution. They stick a love note in their lover's lunch box. They do without new shoes so their children can have them.

They go to the doctor with a frightened friend. They love unconditionally. Women are honest, loyal, and forgiving. They are smart, knowing that knowledge is power. But they still know how to use their softer side to make a point.

Women want to be the best for their family, their friends, and themselves. They cry when their children excel and cheer when their friends get awards. They are happy when they hear about a birth or a new marriage. Their hearts break when a friend dies. They have sorrow at the loss of a family member, yet they are strong when they think that there is no strength left.

 A woman's touch can cure any ailment. They know that a hug and a kiss can heal a broken heart. A woman can make a romantic evening unforgettable.

Women come in all sizes, in all colors and shapes. They live in homes, apartments and cabins. They drive, fly, walk, run or e-mail you to show how much they care about you. The heart of a woman is what makes the world spin!

Women do more than just give birth. They bring joy and hope. They give compassion and ideals. They give moral support to their family and friends. And all they want back is a hug, a smile and for you to do the same to people you come in contact with.

MEN

Men are good at lifting heavy stuff.

A man is incomplete until he is married. After that, he is finished!

Does your view of marriage match God's perspective?

He who finds a wife finds happiness; it is a favor he receives from the LORD. -Proverbs 18:22

TODAY’S WORD

absolve • \ub-ZALV\ verb

1 : to set free from an obligation or the consequences of guilt 2 : to remit (a sin) by absolution

The fact that Andrew was the ringleader does not absolve his friends of responsibility for their part in the prank.

TODAY’S REFLECTION

Call to me in times of trouble. I will save you, and you will honor me.

 Psalm 50:15

Rather than look forward in fear, look upward in faith. This command surprises no one. Regarding prayer, the Bible never blushes.

Jesus taught people that “it was necessary for them to pray consistently and never quit (Luke 18:1 MSG). Rather than worry about anything, “pray about everything.”

Everything? Diaper changes and dates? Business meetings and broken bathtubs? Procrastination and prognostications? Pray about everything.

1 of 365 devotionals in Grace for the Moment, Volume 2

http://www.maxlucado.com/

TODAY’S ADVICE FROM THE OLD FARMER’S ALMANAC

Prune roses in thespring to encourage growth.

62 DAYS UNTIL SUMMER !

Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your Heart

Psalm 37:4

I Love You All !!!

Be Blessed !!!

MA

MY HOMEPAGE

I believe we should live ‘ON THE BRIGHT SIDE’

www.bigmarainey.com

MY JOURNALS http://journals.aol.com/marainey1/GoodMorningSunshine/

http://onyama.blogspot.com/

To see archived ‘On the Bright Side’ Newsletters click on the link below: http://journals.aol.com/marainey1/ONTHEBRIGHTSIDE/

BRIGHT SIDE LOGO BY SON #6

http://www.littlerainey.com/index.html

 

FOR THURSDAY, APRIL 19TH, 2007

ON THE BRIGHT SIDE

APRIL 19TH, 2007

TODAY'S THOUGHT

We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.

Aristotle

TODAY’S ACTION

Look forward and say "I can";

don't look backward and say "I should have."

TODAY’S QUOTE

Do not worry; eat three square meals a day; say your prayers; be courteous to your creditors; keep your digestion good; exercise; go slow and easy. Maybe there are other things your special case requires to make you happy, but my friend, these I reckon will give you a good lift.

Abraham Lincoln

HAPPY THURSDAY

AND HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO BOTH OF MY SISTERS

May the dear Lord bless you today and always !

I’m so blessed to have two sisters and it just happens that they do share the same day for their birthdays. No they are not twins, each was born in a different year, just on the same date.

We didn’t see any rain yesterday so maybe it’ll come our way today. Friday Saturday and Sunday are promising us mostly sunny skies. I’m sooo looking forward to it.

Have a great day all ! Another wonderful one on the Way !

Please pray for God's protection of our troops and HIS wisdom for their commanders.

Lord, hold our troops in your loving hands. Protect them as they protect us. Bless them and their families for the selfless acts they perform for us in our time of need. I ask this in the name of Jesus, our Lord and Savior.

25 WORDS

God, I thank You for today, for the ways You will bless me, and for the ways that I will serve others in Your name

TODAY IS…FRESH CELERY DAY

Celery is part of the parsley family. It was first grown as a medicinal plant, then (during the Middle Ages) as a flavoring. Finally, people started using it as a food - mainly for soups and salads. It's a good source of vitamin C and potassium, but here's the best part... It takes more calories to chew a piece of raw celery than you get from eating it!

TODAY’S TRIVIA

Today is National Garlic Day

Today is Primrose Day

On this day in 1897, the first annual Boston Marathon -- the first of its type in the United States -- was run. John J. McDermott of New York City won.

 1892 - The Duryea gasoline buggy was first driven in the United States

1945 - The musical Carousel, based on Molnar’s Liliom, opened at the Majestic Theatre in New York City Music was by the team of Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein

TODAY’S SMILE

A famous gardener was coming to the village to judge a gardening competition. Most people decided that the result was a foregone conclusion, because the beautiful garden of the manor house had won first prize three years running.

For the first time old Joe Murphy decided to enter the competition. His friends laughed at him, saying he didn't have a chance.

The night before the judging, there was a terrible gale. People woke to find their gardens battered. The lady of the manor told everyone not to worry, saying she knew the judge personally and he would understand.

But Joe got up early, repaired his garden as best he could. The judge came and was so impressed by Joe's willingness to repair such a mess that he was awarded first prize.

We sometimes assume that everything is a foregone conclusion. Like Joe we should never assume anything and simply give each day our best and honest effort.

http://www.todayismygifttoyou.ie/

TODAY’S WORD

vulpine adjective [VUL-pine]

1. resembling or characteristic of a fox: "She had a vulpine air about her, and I knew that I should keep my guard up."

2. cunning or crafty: "Atsu was a vulpine negotiator."

TODAY’S REFLECTION

If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.

James 1:5-6

Even though it may take time for our prayers to be answered, we need never doubt that God hears and answers.

Almighty God, remove all doubt from my mind, so that I may be open to your guidance. Amen.

http://www.dailyguideposts.com

TODAY’S ADVICE FROM THE OLD FARMER’S ALMANAC

To tone the skin, apply raw egg white. Let dry, then rinse off.

63 DAYS UNTIL SUMMER !

Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your Heart

Psalm 37:4

I Love You All !!!

Be Blessed !!!

MA

MY HOMEPAGE

I believe we should live ‘ON THE BRIGHT SIDE’

www.bigmarainey.com

MY JOURNALS

http://journals.aol.com/marainey1/GoodMorningSunshine/

http://onyama.blogspot.com/

To see archived ‘On the Bright Side’ Newsletters click on the link below:

http://journals.aol.com/marainey1/ONTHEBRIGHTSIDE/

BRIGHT SIDE LOGO BY SON #6

http://www.littlerainey.com/index.html

 

FOR WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18TH, 2007

ON THE BRIGHT SIDE

APRIL 18TH, 2007

TODAY'S THOUGHT

Bring love into your home for this is where our love for each other must start.

Mother Teresa

TODAY’S ACTION

Tell the people you love how much they mean to you.

TODAY’S QUOTE

True love is when your heart and your mind are saying the same thing.

Leanna L. Bartram

 HAPPY WEDNESDAY

OVER THE HUMP DAY!

This week is flying right by and that is a good thing. They say time goes fast when you are having fun.

I’ve now got one boss back in the office so I was able to get out at lunch time yesterday. I had a magazine with all kinds of basket gifts for every occasion come in the mail, so I thought I’d try my hand at making them on my own. I always have some special occasion going on with a family the size of mine. Soooo on my lunch hour I went about shopping for some baskets and gifts. What fun !

Some good news also came in the mail. My gas bill to heat the house now has almost $200 credit on it, so this month and probably the next two , I’ll not have a gas bill to pay. Thankfully the weather will only be getting warmer from here on out. Lowering the temp in my house really paid off this winter.

Have a great day all ! Another wonderful one on the Way !

Please pray for God's protection of our troops and HIS wisdom for their commanders.

Lord, hold our troops in your loving hands. Protect them as they protect us. Bless them and their families for the selfless acts they perform for us in our time of need. I ask this in the name of Jesus, our Lord and Savior.

25 WORDS

God, I thank You for today, for the ways You will bless me, and for the ways that I will serve others in Your name

TODAY IS…STAINED GLASS WINDOWS DAY 

The earliest known stained glass windows were made during the 9th century in France. They developed as art around the Christian church - especially during the years 1100 - 1300 with the Gothic building of great cathedrals. The windows were forms of spiritual expression. They also told a story in images - very important since few people during medieval times could read.

The North window of Notre Dame de Paris.

http://www.elore.com/Gothic/Features/Paris/north_rose.htm

TODAY’S TRIVIA

1506: Foundation stone for the new St. Peter's Basilica laid in Rome

1921: Junior Achievement, created to encourage business skills in young people, was incorporated.

1923 - Yankee Stadium opened in the Bronx, NY as the hometown team, the NY Yankees, hosted the Boston Red Sox. A record crowd of 74,000 fans saw the action at the first three-level stadium in the U.S.

TODAY’S SMILE

As You Go Through Life ...

1. Set your own pace........When someone is pushing you, it's ok to tell them they're pushing.

2. Take nothing for granted........Watch water flow, the corn grow, the leaves blow, your neighbors mow.

3. Allow yourself time to be lazy and unproductive........Rest isn't a luxury, it's a necessity.

4. Listen to the wind blow........It carries a message of yesterday and tomorrow........And now.........Now counts.

 5. Rest on your laurels........They bring comfort whatever their size, age or condition.

6. Talk slower. Talk less. Don't talk. Communication isn't measured by words.

7. Give yourself permission to be late sometimes........Life is for living, not scheduling.

8. Listen to the song of a bird........The complete song. Music and nature are gifts, but only if you are willing to receive them.

 9. Slow down. God is still in heaven........You are not responsible for doing it all...yourself... right now.

10. Remember a happy, peaceful time in your past........Rest there. Each moment has a richness that takes a lifetime to savor.

11. Quit planning how you're going to use what you know, learn or possess........God's gifts just are. Be grateful and their purpose will be clear.

12. When you walk with someone, don't think about what you'll say next........Thoughts will spring up naturally if you let them.

 13. Talk and play with children........It will bring out the unhurried little person inside you.

14. Create a place in your home...At your work....in your heart...where you can go for quiet and recollection. You deserve it.

15. Take time to think........Action is good and necessary, but it's fruitful only if we muse, ponder and mull.

16. Make time for play........The things you like to do. Whatever your age, your inner child needs re-creation.

17. Watch and listen to the night sky........It speaks.

18. Listen to the words you speak........Especially in prayer.

19. Learn to stand back and let others take their turn as leaders........ There will always be new opportunities for you to step out in front again.

20. Divide big jobs into little jobs........If God took six days to create the universe, can you do any better?

21. Direct your life with purposeful choices, not with speed and efficiency........The best musician is one who plays with expression and meaning, not the one who finishes first.

22. Take a day off alone........Make a retreat. You can learn from monks and hermits without becoming one.

23. Pet a furry friend........You will give and get the gift of now.

24. Work with your hands........It frees the mind.

25. Take time to wonder........Without wonder, life is merely an existence.

26. Sit in the dark........It will treat you to see and hear, taste and smell.

27. Once in awhile........Turn down the lights, The throttle, The invitations. Less really can be more.

28. Let go......Nothing is usually the hardest thing to do...but often it is the best.

29. Taste your food........God gave it to delight as well as nourish.

30. Notice the sun and the moon as they rise and set........They are remarkable for their steady pattern of movement, not their speed.

31. And as you ramble on thru life my dearest friend........Keep your eye upon the doughnut, and not upon the hole.

32. "AND SLOWLY COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS ONE AT A TIME"

Author Unknown

TODAY’S WORD

dewlap (DOO-lap, DYOO-lap) noun

A loose fold of skin hanging under the neck of an animal such as cow, rooster, lizard, etc. On birds, this appendage is also known as a wattle.

TODAY’S REFLECTION

From the place of His dwelling He looks on all the inhabitants of the earth; He fashions their hearts individually.

Psalm 33:14-15

 You are the only you God made. He made you and broke the mold…Every single baby is a brand-new idea from the mind of God. No one can duplicate your life.

You are heaven’s Halley’s Comet; we have one shot at seeing you shine.

1 of 365 devotionals in Grace for the Moment, Volume 2

http://www.maxlucado.com/

TODAY’S ADVICE FROM THE OLD FARMER’S ALMANAC

If you have too many bananas, bake them in a banana bread or freeze them (peeled) for later use.

64 DAYS UNTIL SUMMER !

Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your Heart

Psalm 37:4

I Love You All !!!

Be Blessed !!!

MA

 MY HOMEPAGE

I believe we should live ‘ON THE BRIGHT SIDE’

www.bigmarainey.com

MY JOURNALS

http://journals.aol.com/marainey1/GoodMorningSunshine/

http://onyama.blogspot.com/

To see archived ‘On the Bright Side’ Newsletters click on the link below: http://journals.aol.com/marainey1/ONTHEBRIGHTSIDE/

BRIGHT SIDE LOGO BY SON #6

http://www.littlerainey.com/index.html

ON THE BRIGHT SIDE

APRIL 17TH, 2007

TODAY'S THOUGHT

I do not understand the mystery of grace— only that it meets us where we are, but does not leave us where it found us.

Anne Lamott

TODAY’S ACTION

When you see a butterfly let it remind you of new life.

TODAY’S QUOTE

There are the NOWS, WAS’S, and GONNA-BE’S.

A NOW is the most precious thing you can have, because a NOW goes by with the speed of light. Let’s say you’re having a beautiful NOW that you want to hold on to forever. No matter how much you want to hold on to it, it’s going to be a WAS. A lot of people get stuck in and can’t let go of the WAS’S. Those WAS’S get heavy, and they start to decay into SHOULDA-COULDAS. And they never have time for the new NOW.

Sid Caesar

HAPPY TUESDAY

After having a break from our dulcimer get together’s, we are finally getting back together this evening. None of us has played at all since we met after Christmas, so it ought to be interesting, the important thing is that we’ll laugh a lot and have fun. We always do!

Yesterday was very very windy here, but thankfully we got no rain. The folks in the Northeastern part of the country really got deluged.

Today is supposed to be a sunny one and maybe a little warmer.

Have a great day all ! Another wonderful one on the Way !

Please pray for God's protection of our troops and HIS wisdomfor their commanders.

Lord, hold our troops in your loving hands. Protect them as they protect us. Bless them and their families for the selfless acts they perform for us in our time of need. I ask this in the name of Jesus, our Lord and Savior.

25 WORDS

God, I thank You for today, for the ways You will bless me, and for the ways that I will serve others in Your name

TODAY IS…CHEESE BALL DAY

Yes, they are usually only seen on special occasions, but... why? Easy to make, a cheeseball can be a treat for your next night of cards or just a fun snack when renting a movie. Plan ahead so it has time to chill - then get your out favorite crackers and dig in!

PINEAPPLE CHEESE BALL

16oz. cream cheese, softened

8 1/2oz. can crushed pineapple, well drained

2 cups chopped pecans

1 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup green pepper, chopped

2 Tablespoons green onion, chopped

1. Mix all ingredients together in a mixing bowl only 1/2 the nuts. 2. Shape into a ball and roll it in the rest of the nuts (use a cookie sheet or waxed paper). 3. Cover in plastic wrap or foil. Chill overnight and serve with your favorite crackers.

 TODAY’S TRIVIA

Today is Daffy Duck Day. Daffy appeared in his first cartoon, "Porky's Duck Hunt," on April 17, 1937.

1492: A contract was signed by Christopher Columbus and a representative of Spain's King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella, giving Columbus a commission to seek a westward ocean passage to Asia.

1810: Lewis Norton of Troy, Pennsylvania, patented Pineapple Cheese

1964: At the New York World's Fair, Ford Motor Company introduced the Mustang. Base price was $2,368.

1985 - The U.S. Postal Service unveiled its new 22-cent LOVE stamp. In a clever promotion, the USPS used the set of ABC-TV’s The Love Boat as a backdrop. The stamp went on to become one of the most popular ever offered by the postal service.

TODAY’S SMILE

This is a little long, but I thought it worth sharing

Discover the 90/10 Principle: It will change your life

The 90/10 principle is incredible! Very few know and apply this principle. The Result? Millions of people are suffering undeserved stress, trials, problems, and heartache. They never seem to be a success in life. Bad days follow bad days. Terrible things seem to be constantly happening. Theirs is constant stress, lack of joy, and broken relationships. Worry consumes time, anger breaks friendships, and life seems dreary and is not enjoyed to the fullest. Friends are lost. Life is a bore and often seems cruel. Does this describe you? If so, do not be discouraged. You can be different! Understand and apply the 90/10 principle. It will change your life!

What is this principle? 10% of life is made up of what happens to you. 90% of life is decided by how you react. What does this mean? We really have no control over 10% of what happens to us. We cannot stop the car from breaking down. The plane may be late arriving, which throws our whole schedule off. A driver may cut us off in traffic. We have no control over this 10%. The other 90% is different. You determine the other 90%! How? By your reaction. You cannot control a red light, but you can control your reaction. Don't let people fool you; YOU can control how you react!

Let's use an example. You're eating breakfast with your family. Your daughter knocks over a cup of coffee onto your business shirt. You have no control over what just happened. What happens next will be determined by how you react.

You curse. You harshly scold your daughter for knocking the coffee cup over. She breaks down in tears. After scolding her, you turn to your spouse and criticize them for placing the cup too close to the edge of the table. A short verbal battle follows. You storm upstairs and change your shirt. Back downstairs you find your daughter has been too busy crying to finish breakfast and get ready for school. She misses the bus. Your spouse must leave immediately for work. You rush to the car and drive your daughter to school.

Because you are late, you drive 40 miles an hour in a 30 mph speed limit. After a 15-minute delay and throwing $60 (traffic fine) away, you arrive at school. Your daughter runs to the building without saying good-bye. After arriving at the office 20 minutes late, you find you forgot your briefcase. Your day has started terrible. As it continues, it seems to get worse and worse.

You look forward to going home. When you arrive home you find small wedge in your relationship with your spouse and daughter. Why? Because of how you reacted in the morning.

Why did you have a bad day?

A) Did the coffee cause it?

B) Did your daughter cause it?

C) Did the Policeman cause it?

D) Did you cause it?

The answer is D.

You had no control over what happened with the coffee. How you reacted in those 5 seconds is what caused your bad day.

Here is what could have and should have happened. Coffee splashes over you. Your daughter is about to cry. You gently say, "It's OK honey, you just need to be more careful next time". Grabbing a towel you rush upstairs. After grabbing a new shirt and your briefcase. You come back down in time look through the window and see your child getting on the bus. She turns and waves. You and your spouse kiss before you both go to work. You arrive 5 minutes early and cheerfully greet the staff. Your boss comments on how good the day you are having. Notice the difference.

Two different scenarios. Both started the same. Both ended different. Why? Because of how you REACTED. You really do not have any control over 10% of what happens. The other 90% is determined by your reaction.

Here are some ways to apply the 90/10 principle. If someone says something negative about you, do not be a sponge. Let the attack roll off like water on glass. You do not have to let the negative comment affect you! React properly and it will not ruin your day. A wrong reaction could result in losing a friend, being fired, getting stressed out, etc.

How do you react if someone cuts you off in traffic? Do you lose your temper? Pound the steering wheel? (A friend of mine had the steering wheel fall off!) Do you curse? Does your blood pressure skyrocket? Do you try and bump them? WHO CARES if you arrive ten seconds later at work? Why let the cars ruin your drive. Remember the 90-10 principle, and do not worry about it!

You are told you lost your job. Why lose sleep or get irritated? It will work out. Use your "worrying" energy and time into finding another job.

The plane is late. It is going to mangle your schedule for the day. Why take out your frustration on the flight attendant? She has no control over what is going on.

Use your time to study, get to know the other passenger, etc. Why get stressed out? It will just make things worse.

Now you now know the 90-10 principle. Apply it and you will be amazed at the results.

TODAY’S WORD

mag·nan·i·mous adjective.

1. Courageously noble in mind and heart.

2. Generous in forgiving; eschewing (abstaining from) resentment or revenge; unselfish.

TODAY’S REFLECTION

How much better to get wisdom than gold! And to get understanding is to be chosen rather than silver.

Proverbs 16:16

The book of Proverbs is filled with comparisons that point us toward the right pathway in life. Because the book’s purpose is to give the reader knowledge and wisdom based on the fear of the Lord (Prov. 1:2,7), it’s not surprising to find statements saying, “This is better than that.”

Some people have the ability to be both wise and wealthy. But when faced with a choice between the two, Proverbs says wisdom is the better alternative When God’s Word shapes our thinking and guides our choices, we’ll discover that His way is always better

Our Daily Bread

http://www.rbc.org

TODAY’S ADVICE FROM THE OLD FARMER’S ALMANAC

Add 1/4 to 1/2 cup baking soda per wash load to make clothes feel soft and smell fresh.

65 DAYS UNTIL SUMMER !

Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your Heart

Psalm 37:4

I Love You All !!!

Be Blessed !!!

MA

MY HOMEPAGE I believe we should live ‘ON THE BRIGHT SIDE’

www.bigmarainey.com

MY JOURNALS

http://journals.aol.com/marainey1/GoodMorningSunshine/

http://onyama.blogspot.com/

To see archived ‘On the Bright Side’ Newsletters click on the link below: http://journals.aol.com/marainey1/ONTHEBRIGHTSIDE/

BRIGHT SIDE LOGO BY SON #6

http://www.littlerainey.com/index.html

 

FOR MONDAY , APRIL 16TH, 2007

ON THE BRIGHT SIDE

APRIL 16TH, 2007

TODAY'S THOUGHT

A person can almost be defined by his or her attitude toward gratitude.

Elie Wiesel

TODAY’S ACTION

 Be thankful for all you are learning, and grateful to all those who are teaching you.

TODAY’S QUOTE

Our Constitution is in actual operation; everything appears to promise that it will last; but nothing in this world is certain but death and taxes.

Benjamin Franklin

HAPPY MONDAY

I hope you all have your taxes done by now. I did mine way back in February. That seems like a long time ago now !

Don't put off until tomorrow what you can do today.

There may be a tax on it by then !

Have a great day all ! Another wonderful one on the Way !

Please pray for God's protection of our troops and HIS wisdom for their commanders.

Lord, hold our troops in your loving hands. Protect them as they protect us. Bless them and their families for the selfless acts they perform for us in our time of need. I ask this in the name of Jesus, our Lord and Savior.

25 WORDS

 God, I thank You for today, for the ways You will bless me, and for the ways that I will serve others in Your name

TODAYIS…GUITAR PICKERS DAY

The guitar was invented by the people of Malaga, Spain during the 15th century. These first guitars were very small and strung with four pair of strings. Each pair was call a course. As the guitar later changed into a larger instrument, this "four course" guitar became the ukulele. During the Renaissance, the guitar was not considered a serious instrument and never replaced the popular lute. The first publication to include music for a guitar was written in 1546.

TODAY’S TRIVIA

Today marks the 111th running of the Boston Marathon. They expect 20,000 runners, a half million on-lookers.

Today is International Moment of Laughter Day, time to set aside a moment to laugh

1867: Wilbur Wright was born in Millville, Indiana. When it came time to decide in 1903 who would make history’s first airplane flight, Wilbur and brother Orville flipped a coin. Wilbur lost.

1905 - An endowment of a college teachers’ pension fund was established by Andrew Carnegie. He donated $10,000,000 of personal money to set up the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching.

1926 - The Book-of-the-Month Club in New York City chose as its first selection, Lolly Willowes or The Loving Huntsman by Sylvia Townsend as the offering to its 4,750 members.

1956: On "I Love Lucy," in an episode called "Lucy’s Italian Movie," Lucy engages in what would become TV’s classic comedy grape-stomping scene.

TODAY’S SMILE

As my five-year-old-son and I were headed to McDonald's one day, we passed a car accident. Usually when we see something terrible like that, we say a prayer for those who might be hurt, so I pointed and said to my son, "We should pray."

From the back seat I heard his earnest request: "Please, God, don't let those cars block the entrance to McDonald's."

TODAY’S WORD

sat·ur·nine adjective.

1. Having the temperament of one born under the supposed astrological influence of Saturn.

2.a. Melancholy or sullen. b. Having or marked by a tendency to be bitter or sardonic: a saturnine expression on his face.

Synonym glum. 3. Produced by absorption of lead.

TODAY’S REFLECTION

Thomas, called the Twin, who was one of the Twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. When the disciples said, 'We have seen the Lord', he answered, 'Unless I see the holes that the nails made in his hands and can put my finger into the holes they made, and unless I can put my hand into his side, I refuse to believe'

John 20:23-25

The Resurrection is the corner stone of our faith. It's the hinge on which we rest everything. We all though have our doubts and questions.That's why we should not be so hard on Thomas better known as 'Doubting Thomas'. He holds all our questions and doubts.

The message is not to be discouraged. Hold onto them, live them and give them time. This is what Thomas did and marked him out, not just as a believer but marked him out as an open, honest and genuine believer. God always appreciates such openness and honesty.

http://www.todayismygifttoyou.ie/

Lord Jesus, the force of your love is beyond words. For the sake of your sorrowful passion, have mercy on us and on the whole world

TODAY’S ADVICE FROM THE OLD FARMER’S ALMANAC

Put rice grains in your fishing tackle box to absorb moisture and prevent rusty hooks.

66 DAYS UNTIL SUMMER !

Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your Heart

Psalm 37:4

I Love You All !!!

Be Blessed !!!

MA

 MY HOMEPAGE

 I believe we should live ‘ON THE BRIGHT SIDE’

www.bigmarainey.com

MY JOURNALS

http://journals.aol.com/marainey1/GoodMorningSunshine/

http://onyama.blogspot.com/

To see archived ‘On the Bright Side’ Newsletters click on the link below: http://journals.aol.com/marainey1/ONTHEBRIGHTSIDE/

BRIGHT SIDE LOGO BY SON #6

http://www.littlerainey.com/index.html

 

ON THE BRIGHT SIDE

APRIL 15TH, 2007

TODAY'S THOUGHT

Whenever you do a thing, act as if all the world were watching.

Thomas Jefferson

TODAY’S ACTION

Give yourself fully to your endeavors

TODAY’S QUOTE

If dandelions were hard to grow, they would be most welcome on any lawn.

Andrew Mason

 HAPPY SUNDAY

And HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO DS#2

May the dear Lord bless you today and always !

It’s our Family Feast Day!

Hopefully everyone isn’t tired of hardboiled eggs yet. DD is coloring some for our Easter Egg hunt for the grand’babes’ and I know they’ll need some help in eating them. Their favorite eggs are the plastic ones with chocolate candies inside.

I’m off to church as always this morning – let the celebration begin !

Have a great day all ! Another wonderful one on the Way !

Please pray for God's protection of our troops and HIS wisdom for their commanders.

Lord, hold our troops in your loving hands. Protect them as they protect us. Bless them and their families for the selfless acts they perform for us in our time of need. I ask this in the name of Jesus, our Lord and Savior.

25 WORDS

God, I thank You for today, for the ways You will bless me, and for the ways that I will serve others in Your name

TODAY IS…ART HISTORY DAY

What do you call art? There are so many answers, you can't be wrong. Anything visual - starting with the primitive drawings of cavemen. Traditional paintings, decorative arts and crafts, architecture, landscape design, photography, film, commercial design. Find your favorite art form, artist or painting - or just browse around.

Art History on the Web http://witcombe.sbc.edu/ARTHLinks.html

TODAY’S TRIVIA

Today is usually Income Tax Pay Day, but not this year. Since April 15 falls on a weekend, Income Tax Pay Day is Monday, April 16.

Today is National Fast Food Day.

Today is National Auctioneers Day

Today is National Glazed Ham Day.

National Coin Week, National Library Week, and National Volunteer Week begin today.

2348 BC: According to Archbishop Usher, Noah’s Ark landed on Mount Ararat near the modern borders of Turkey, Armenia, and Iran. The natives call Ararat "the Painful Mountain" because its sudden storms, avalanches, and shifting glaciers make it almost impossible to climb.

1852: The first screw-top bottles were patented in Paris, France.

1923 - Insulin became available for general use on this day. It was first discovered in 1922. Today, insulin is used daily in the treatment of diabetes.

1934: Comic strip wife Blondie Bumstead gave birth to Alexander. She called him "Baby Dumpling."

1955 This is the anniversary of McDonald’s. Ray Kroc opened the first McDonald’s -- in Des Plaines, IL. Kroc began his career by selling milk shake machines. Among his first customers were the McDonald brothers from Southern California. After selling them several machines and watching the efficiency of their drive-in restaurant, Kroc bought the rights to market the brothers’ good fortune and hired them to work for him. On his first day of business, sales of 15-cent hamburgers and 10-cent French fries totaled $366.12. Thirty years later, McDonald’s grossed a whopping $8.6 billion annually. Have a Big Mac today! You deserve a break.

1957: Sun Records in Memphis released "Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On" by Jerry Lee Lewis. It would top the pop, country, and rhythm & blues music charts

TODAY’S SMILE

Okay, maybe this isn't REALLY what happened, but I think it's funny nevertheless:)

On the very first day, God created the cow. He said to the cow, "Today I have created you! As a cow, you must go to the field with the farmer all day long. You will work all day under the sun! I will give you a life span of 50 years.."

The cow objected, "What? This kind of tough life you want me to live for 50 years? Let me have 20 years, and the 30 years I'll give back to you." So God agreed.

On the second day, God created the dog. God said to the dog, "What you are supposed to do is to sit all day by the door of your house. Any people that come in, you will have to bark at them! I'll give a life span of 20 years." The dog objected, "What? All day long to sit by the door? No way! I give you back my other 10 years of life!"

So God agreed. On the third day, God created the monkey. He said to the monkey, "Monkeys have to entertain people. You've got to make them laugh and do monkey tricks. I'll give you 20 years life span." The monkey objected. "What? Make them laugh? Do monkey faces and tricks? Ten years will do, and the other 10 years I'll give you back."

So God agreed. On the fourth day, God created man and said to him, "Your job is to sleep, eat, and play. You will enjoy very much in your life. All you need to do is to enjoy and do nothing. This kind of life, I'll give you a 20 year life span." The man objected. "What? Such a good life! Eat, play, sleep, do nothing? Enjoy the best and you expect me to live only for 20 years? No way, man!....Why don't we make a deal?

Since the cow gave you back 30 years, and the dog gave you back 10 years and the monkey gave you back 10 years, I will take them from you! That makes my life span 70 years, right?" So God agreed.

AND THAT'S WHY.... In our first 20 years, we eat, sleep, play, enjoy the best and do nothing much. For the next 30 years, we work all day long, suffer and get to support the family.

For the next 10 years, we entertain our grandchildren by making monkey faces and monkey tricks.

And for the last 10 years, we stay at home, sit by the front door and bark at people!

Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil. -Proverbs 3:1

http://www.cleanjokeoftheday.com

TODAY’S WORD

overweening \oh-ver-WEE-ning\ adjective

1 : arrogant, presumptuous 2 : immoderate, exaggerated

Also "overween," a term for thinking too highly of your own opinion.

The overweening ambition of the novel's principal character eventually leads to his downfall

TODAY’S REFLECTION

Jesus showed Himself to His disciples after He was raised from the dead.

John 21:14

Truth is truth even if it doesn’t seem to affect our lives directly. But the truth that God gives us in the Bible not only opens heaven’s door for us, it also changes our lives. If we really believe Jesus rose again, that belief mandates a change of life. Peter’s life was turned upside-down after he saw the resurrected Christ.

Ask God what He wants to do in you, and then cooperate with Him in that change

 Our Daily Bread http://www.rbc.org/odb

TODAY’S ADVICE FROM THE OLD FARMER’S ALMANAC

 If you plant your Easter lily outdoors after the danger of frost has passed, you may coax another season's bloom.

67 DAYS UNTIL SUMMER !

Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your Heart

Psalm 37:4

I Love You All !!!

Be Blessed !!!

MA

 MY HOMEPAGE

I believe we should live ‘ON THE BRIGHT SIDE’

www.bigmarainey.com

MY JOURNALS

http://journals.aol.com/marainey1/GoodMorningSunshine/

http://onyama.blogspot.com/

To see archived ‘On the Bright Side’ Newsletters click on the link below: http://journals.aol.com/marainey1/ONTHEBRIGHTSIDE/

 BRIGHT SIDE LOGO BY SON #6 http://www.littlerainey.com/index.html