A Famous and Wise Quote about How to Create Change in Life
“You never change things by fighting the existing reality; to change something, build a new model that makes the existing model obsolete” by R. Buckminster Fuller
Despite the fact that Richard Buckminster Fuller isn't from our time, his wise words still resonate deeply. Also known as 'Bucky' he was born in 1895 and passed away in 1983 at the age of 87. His extensive resume includes American Architect, Systems Theorist, Author, Designer and Inventor.
In Today's World of Challenges, Buckminster's Quote Applies More Than Ever Doesn't It?
In situations that seem hopeless or all consuming, there’s really only one way out:
'to create a new situation that makes the existing situation obsolete'
This logical approach applies to every area of life:
Relationships - We aren't getting along? Stop fighting the situation and person, and build a new road
Work - We have problems, have gotten laid off, or the Boss is on our case; instead of going into fight mode, we build a new road
World Conflicts - Solve the problems by developing new ideas that make the existing problems obsolete
Best of all, while we're creating that new model, we're also creating a new focus and purpose. Instead of thinking of a way to change the current situation, Fuller's suggestion is to take the focus off the problem. If it's possible to forget it, forget it, and begin anew by building that new plan, that new approach. Imagine what we could accomplish if we put down those spinning wheels and simply decide to build a new path.
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
It is the week before Christmas and I am already surrounded by my family, but there is someone missing. 9 years ago my brother died. During the holidays, when he should be
here with us, the grief washes over me and I, once again, mourn the
death of my beloved brother. The holidays should be joyous and for the most part they really are
festive. There is a lot of family togetherness and laughter. Ironically,
it is when we are all laughing that I hear the voice in my mind of one
that is no longer laughing with us. If ever there was anyone who loved
to laugh, loved life, loved family, and loved Christmas, it would be my
brother. I wonder if there will ever be a Christmas that I don't remember and grieve his absence. The photo above is from my own personal photo album. It was taken on
Christmas day, several years ago and is an actual photo of my brother
and grandmother together.
I Miss You Most at Christmas Time by Mariah Carey
Several
years ago, at Christmas, I heard "Miss You Most (At Christmas Time)" by Mariah Carey. My tenderhearted brother was with me then and we joined
together as we cried and grieved the death and separation from our
grandmother. It never occurred to me that his would be the next
family death and that when I heard the song again, it would be him that I
would be missing.
After
my tears are spent, I recall the promise made by our Savior, Jesus
Christ, thousands of years ago and I regain the strength to step into
the next moment of my life.
John 6:38-40
"For I have come
down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent
me. And this is the will of Him who sent me, that of all that He has
given me, I lose nothing, but raise it up on the last day. For this is
the will of my Father, that everyone who beholds the Son and believes in
him shall have eternal life, and I Myself will raise him up on the last
day."
I
find great comfort in that scripture passage and in His promise. I am not wishing
my life away, for there is work yet for me to do, but I know that one
day I will be reunited with my brother and all who have gone before me.
The photo of the dove is of a stained glass window in St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. I shall never forget the first time I ever saw that window. It was brilliant! I loved that window and took lots of photos before we left. I can't adequately describe the magnificence and awe of seeing that window in person or the sense of longing and adoration it evokes. The image of the sun lite stained glass dove stayed in my mind's eye long after we left Rome. When we were designing my brother's monument, that was the image that came to mind. As you can see, the monument artist was able to replicate the image on the monument from the photo. The inscription is a quote from the sonnet "Death, be Not Proud", written by John Donne. I truly believe that it is death that dies when we wake eternally.
I
wrote this article about myself and my own personal thoughts, but I also recognize that there are many among us who are grieving during the holidays. It is my
sincere desire that these words may also comfort others who are grieving.
May the One who bottles your tears, comfort you now!
Scripture reference: Psalms 56:8
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
Fix wardrobe emergencies before they turn into serous wardrobe malfunctions!
Had any wardrobe malfunction close calls lately? It happens! I've found the absolute best fashion tape for preventing gaping spaces between blouse buttons, fixing straps that slip, and even repairing hems. Hollywood Fashion Tape is the perfect solution for wardrobe emergencies!
I first found this wonderful product when I put off trying on an evening dress that I had bought for a cruise. I knew it didn't fit quite right, but I didn't realize how much help I was going to need with this dress until it was too late.
The straps were the culprit. One was wide and ruffly, the other narrow and just not placed exactly where it should have been. When I finally tried on the dress then adjusted the wide, ruffled strap to fit properly, the narrow strap on the other side simply would not stay up. And vice versa. No matter how I adjusted the dress, there was obviously a strap problem - and a danger of a serious, embarrassing wardrobe malfunction.
The solution? I googled it, of course. In doing so, I found THE one best solution for all types of potential wardrobe problems and malfunctions, Hollywood Fashion Secrets Double Stick Fashion Tape Strips. Fortunately I'm an Amazon Prime customer, so I had it in my hot little hands in two days, which left me with one day to give it a try and make it work. So try I did and wow, was I impressed! Why hadn't I discovered this great tape years ago? (The answer to that is that my normal wardrobe of t-shirts in the summer and sweatshirts in the winter rarely pose those particular threats.)
Bottom line? The fashion tape worked like magic. I used it on both straps and I was able to breathe easily the entire evening of our event without even the threat of a slip. Since then I've found lots of additional uses for the tape. How did I ever manage before without it? Better than sliced bread? I'm serious, it is! Hollywood Fashion Tape gets the Sassy Susan Seal of Approval and a spot in my closet, my dresser drawer, and my purse.
Remember the Super Bowl wardrobe malfunction? If only Janet Jackson had used Hollywood Fashion Tape!
How to use Hollywood Fashion Tape
Peel the backing from one side of the tape strip. Press the tape firmly onto your skin or the fabric. Remove the other backing section and press onto the surface to be secured. Amazingly, the backing is easy to separate from the tape and the tape sticks very firmly. When you're ready to remove it, the tape pulls off easily without damaging the fabric. And it doesn't irritate skin. Truly, this tape is amazing!
Use it to:
Tame slippery straps
Close gaping gaps in necklines or between blouse buttons
Repair hanging hems or snagged leggings or pantyhose
Flatten flappy belt ends
Secure scarves
Keep wrap dresses or skirts from unwrapping
Order the tape in a multi-pack. Carry one in your purse, keep one in your desk, store one with your wardrobe accessories, and keep one in your suitcase if you travel a lot. Put them everywhere. Trust me, you will use them.
Hollywood Fashion Tape is a wardrobe accessory that I had no idea I needed - until I did. Bet you'll think of plenty more uses for yours.
How would you use Hollywood Fashion Tape? Bet you have a wardrobe problem to solve, too. Leave a comment below to let me know how you'd use your fashion tape.
P.S. Fashion Tape is essential to have on hand for proms, weddings, and other special occasions. Makes a great stocking stuffer for a teenage girl, too!
Susan Deppner is a baby boomer, a cancer survivor, and a Southerner who believes in the Golden Rule. She enjoys writing about food, faith, and fitness; health, home, and holidays; people, places, pets, and patriotism, and more. Follow Susan on Twitter, Facebook, and Pinterest.
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
My youngest daughter is planning a wedding for this coming fall and so we have been looking at what all needs to be done before she and her happy fella actually walk down the aisle. My goodness the costs can add up very quickly if you are not careful. I read somewhere that the average wedding costs around $25,000 in the US. Well, her wedding has to fall way below the median number! Golly, my first husband and I didn't spend much more than that to buy our first home!
I am pleased to say that my daughter is quite the little bargain hunter. She has always been that way; so, I know she will want to find ways to cut corners for the wedding, too. Her and her fiance have already said that they want a small ceremony but would like to have a huge reception. Even with a small ceremony the costs can add up rapidly with the gown and flowers for the church.
I found this book and purchased it for my lovely little bride to be. She laughed and said, "Mom, you know me well!" She couldn't wait to get it home and start going through it from cover to cover.
Bridal Bargains: Secrets To Planning A Fantastic Wedding on a Realistic Budget is proving to be areal help as she starts to look seriously at planning her special day. Not only are there lists of all things to consider for the wedding but there are some really great questions to ask each of the different vendors that you might have for the different parts of the ceremony. Things like what to ask the photographer and the florist which are ideas you might not think of asking but could make a huge difference in the product you receive. There are recommendations on how to save up to 40% on nationally advertised wedding gowns and also suggestions for websites where you can find bargains for gowns, flowers and even invitations. There are ideas for bargains for the honeymoon, too.
Needless to say, my daughter is very happy with this book and is finding all sorts of ways that she can keep the costs at a minimum. I looked at other books for planning a wedding but for goodness sakes even some of those were outrageous in the pricing for just the book. When my eyes fell on this title, I immediately took it from the shelf and thumbed through it. I knew there was no need to look any further, as it was perfect for my daughter.
I also felt good in knowing that this book is in it's 11th revision so it must be pretty popular with a lot of brides. I noticed in one of the reviews that a gal said she used the book to plan her wedding and now gifts it to her friends when they become engaged. Sounds like she found it just as helpful and my daughter is finding it.
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
I recently injured
my left knee to the extent that walking and sleeping were extremely
painful. I found help during the night with my Cushy
Cloud Knee Pillow, but walking during the day was excruciating.
At times I thought my knee would collapse on me. This was especially
true when it was very cold. Even though I was also wearing silk long
underwear beneath my trousers, it really hurt to walk. I needed a
solution.
Then I remembered
knee warmers. I decided to search Amazon to see what might be right
for me. I wanted to keep my knees warm, but I also hoped to support
the functioning parts of my knee. I still have to wait for an
appointment with an orthopedic specialist to be approved by my
insurance, and I can't keep ice on the knee all day. (Yes, I know I
want to keep it warm, but the Nurse Practitioner recommended ice
packs off and on to help the circulation.)
I saw a lot of knee
warmers, but got sidetracked from Amazon and ordered my Angora knee
warmers from a sponsored site, not having seen the link to them on
Amazon itself at first. I especially wanted Angora because it is not
only warm, but it's soft instead of scratchy on my skin. Now I see I
could have ordered them straight from Amazon. Later I discovered some
of the other choices might have been cheaper and served as well, and
I am also showing you some of the other options I might try when I
buy a second set of knee warmers.
I bought a size
Medium. Although some reviewers on Amazon thought the sizes ran
small, I found the size I ordered was right for me. I did measure
before buying because I hate making returns. Some reviewers on the
site I bought from mentioned having trouble getting refunds, which is another reason to purchase from Amazon. Those
who buy from Amazon have better success with returns because Amazon
wants to keep customers happy.
I don't want to
return mine. They are helping me. They are just tight enough to lend
support so that I can now walk with much less pain. Sometimes there
is no pain at all unless I've been sitting for a long time. They do
keep my knees nice and warm, and they don't scratch. I take them off
at bedtime, since they aren't designed for sleeping. When I'm in bed
my blankets and Cushy Cloud Pillow keep my knee warm.
Should You Buy These Knee Warmers?
I would recommend
these knee warmers to people who suffer with knee pain when it's
cold. Although my left knee pain is caused by more than arthritis,
the pain in my right knee, which is the one the surgeon
wants to operate on one of these days, is arthritic. It causes me no
noticeable pain while I'm wearing my knee warmers. The knee warmers also lessen the pain in my injured left knee.
I plan to buy
another pair of knee warmers, because I'll need to wash these
sometime. They are machine washable on delicate cycle at temperatures of 40C or 104 F. One should use a wool detergent and dry them in a hanging position. They should not be put into the drier.
I will probably try the Florida Othopedics Therall
Warming Knee Support next. Those are bought singly rather than in
pairs. This brand gets better reviews than the ones I bought, but it
really isn't much cheaper than the Medi ones if I buy a pair. They are made of a special elastic with warming ceramic fibers.
What I discovered in
my search was that all sorts of options and brands in a variety of
fabrics are available and there is a knee warmer choice to help
anyone with an arthritic knee. It's a matter of personal preference.
My Medi knee warmers are just right for me, and they help alleviate
my arthritic pain. You may prefer one of the other choices below
after reading site reviews. If you are suffering, though, these knee
warmers can help you. Order some today while you are thinking about it. You won't be sorry.
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
Every year, hundreds of puppies are bought for children as a Christmas present and every year right after Christmas, shelters see an increase in the numbers of animals given up.
A new furry friend is NOT a great gift at a time when everyone's attention is more focused on the "big picture". Little puppies get lost in the confusion and hullabaloo that is happening during the melee of opening presents.
They are new to this whole world of ours and bringing them into the middle of it during the holidays is really unfair to a little bundle of fur that just wants to be loved, cuddled, kept safe and gently explore it's new home and new family.
If, after all the warnings not to, you are determined to bring a puppy or kitten as a gift, there is a way to do it that will keep everyone happy and excited, without being a major trauma to the animal involved in your choice.
Presumably, the kids have all mentioned that they wanted a pet to begin with. To that end, if a new puppy or kitten is on the way to your family, start by preparing your family first for the newest member.
Along with some toys for the kids (a stuffed dog or cat), make sure there are books for each one of them, about caring and training a pet.
Buy them dog/cat dishes, dog/cat toys, dog/cat treats, a bag of good quality puppy or kitten food.
Wrap a flattened dog crate, or kitty carrier and address it to one of the kids. A leash, harness, and tags would be another great gift.
A Puppy Starter Kit would be a nice bundle to give to the whole family!
And then when everyone is wondering what the heck it all means, take the video you made, when you visited the Dog/Cat Breeder and show them the newest member of their family. Give each of the kids a "ticket" to ride in the car on the day after New Years or later, to go and collect their new furry friend. Make arrangements with the Breeder ahead of time, to give the children a lesson or two about caring for their new pet. Most reputable breeders will be more than happy to help along, because they want their puppies to be happy and well adjusted as well. When I got my dog, the breeder was more than happy to give the puppy a bath, show me how to care for his coat and let me help to dry him and brush him. She was pleased that I was interested in his well being before I even got him home. She had valuable experience with puppies and could help me make his transition to my home much smoother. Having a puppy is like having a baby, there are all kinds of things to learn.
By that time, hopefully most of the Christmas things will have been put away and the new fur baby will have a safe place to call his new home. Tinsel and cookies and candy lying around with a new puppy, could spell disaster. So it's better to wait. Not only will those dangers be gone, but, the children, having settled in with their new toys, will find time for the newest member of the family too!
This little video (click on the link) will help you understand a little more about:
Remember, that while getting an animal for Christmas (or later) is wonderful, they are a commitment for years to come, not just over the holidays. This is a living and breathing being that requires love, companionship, exercise and food. He is like a new member of the family and deserves to be treated with the utmost respect.
Do it right and your family will have Christmas memories to last a lifetime and a dog or cat, that will fill each year with happiness and joy.......
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
There's Only One Golden Rule When it Comes to Leggings .... And No Matter Your Age, You Can Wear Leggings if You Follow this One Golden Rule...
"Be sure the Top you chose to wear with your leggings completely covers your behind"
And guess what?
No matter your age, you can still wear a Mini Dress! Yes, that's right, YOU can. Simply wear your mini-dress with leggings or narrow fitted pants, and be sure your Mini Dress follows the same golden rule .... that it covers the behind. As we get older, we tend to think there's no possible way we could EVER wear a short dress again. In fact, for some, it's so engraved in the mind that short, cute dresses are completely disregarded as a wardrobe choice. However, a mini-dress is merely a fancier top, isn't it, so why ignore it. How About You? If you're over 50, have you been guilty of passing by cute dresses in the mall or via online shops thinking, "my time has come and gone, and I'll never be able to wear this style again" ?? Well, stop that stinkin' thinkin' today! You CAN wear mini dresses, just add a pair of leggings.
If you prefer a more conservative look, try to build an outfit along these lines:
Choose solid dark-colored leggings (Black, Navy, Dark Brown)
Choose a mini-dress that has a higher neck
Choose a mini-dress that has sleeves (long or short)
Choose a mini-dress that compliments your shape - as an example, if you have an hourglass frame, try an A-lined mini-dress or tapered dress. If you have a full upper frame, try a mini dress that slightly flows away from the body
Add a nice pair of knee-high boots, and if you have to, get a pair with a sensible heel. There are many pretty knee-high boots with low or flat heels. Keep the color of the boot dark as well, like the leggings: That'll help your look flow in a nice lean way without breaking up the length of the leg. However, if you happen to have very long legs, you may be able to get away with a contrasting colored knee-high boot
You can also match the legging color with the mini-dress, as an example, red leggings with a red mini-dress
If you have to have color in your outfit, try to keep the color on the Top and choose black, dark brown, or navy blue leggings
Stay away from busy patterned leggings
If the outfit calls for it, accessorize your outfit with scarfs, jackets, belts, and jewelry - Accessories add another level for age appropriateness
There are numerous features to consider when choosing leggings with feet, leggings with stirrups to help keep them in place or traditional designs without feet. Deciding which style works best depends upon the shoe you're planning to match with the outfit as a whole.
So go ahead, stop limiting your clothing choices and wear something that makes you feel good!
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
Monkey Day is one of those unofficial holidays that is celebrated internationally on December 14. The day is mainly about monkeys, but also recognizes other [non-human] primates such as apes, tarsiers and lemurs. (Our own Sylvestermouse knows about the Mouse Lemur!) The holiday was started in 2000 when artist Casey Sorrow was an art student at Michigan State University and one day jokingly scribbled “Monkey Day” on a friend's calendar. The holiday grew from there to include many “Monkey business” celebrations which bring about awareness of the animals and to raise money for primate-related issues.
Some 'monkey lovers' go on shopping sprees for Paul Frank 'Julius the monkey' fashions.
Competitions are held to see who has the best costumes and who can act like a monkey the longest
Celebrate the day by eating Ben & Jerry's Chunky Monkey ice cream, which is, of course, Banana Ice Cream with Fudge Chunks & Walnuts. YUM!
Hallmark cards describes it as “one day when monkey business is actually encouraged.”
In 2016, the Chinese New Year was the 'Year of the Monkey'. The next time will be in 2028.
Sock Monkeys
Sock Monkeys have been popular long before “Monkey Day” came about. The original 'Red Heel' sock monkey design has become an icon.
The famous red-heel sock monkey was originally made from red-heel socks knitted by the Nelson Knitting Company, which invented the sock-knitting machine in 1880. This automatic machine invented by John Nelson knitted a sock without seams in the heel.
This hand-crafted sock monkey created from genuine Rockford Red Heel Socks can be found in the Etsy Shop called StarlightSockMonkeys and can be found right here.
These Amigurumi-style Monkeys are handmade in crochet in tan and brown ombre yarns and a pink and pink ombre yarn. They are soft stuffies who are cute & cuddly and fun.
The monkeys measures 12 inches tall (8 inches tall in a sitting position) and about 3 inches across. Tails are 6 inches long.
My favorite childhood 'monkey' story comes from a zoo field trip I made with my second grade class in school. This particular 'monkey house' had chimpanzees in a big cage with just a 3 foot tall bar located about 2 feet out from the cage separating the visitors from the monkey cage. Naturally, curious 7-year-old me went under the bar and right up to the cage, fascinated with the antics of the chimps swinging from trees and bars and scampering about. I got too close and suddenly a chimp just snatched away my brown paper lunch bag with my jelly sandwich and chocolate chip cookies that was supposed to be my lunch that day! The 'monkeys' ate my lunch and I cried. (I also got reprimanded by both my teacher and the zoo staff for disobeying the rules, although my teacher later made sure I got something to eat for lunch!) :)
Mark December 14 on your calendar for "Monkey Day"
So, however you choose to celebrate “Monkey Day”, whether you dress up in a costume, take a trip to the zoo to see the monkeys, read a book about monkeys (like the popular childrens' books about “Curious George”), or do your own brand of silly and fun 'monkey business', enjoy celebrating these interesting primates.
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
I love the song "O Holy Night." It is truly my favorite Christmas song, and it may well be my all time favorite song because of the beautiful message. The easy words and beautiful melody draw me in, sooth my soul and remind me of the real reason I celebrate Christmas.
As we move through the holidays at a breakneck pace, it is so easy to forget where our focus should be. Singing this song always brings me right back to the reason why I sing, the reason why I love Christmas, and the One whose birth I celebrate above all others.
The History of "O Holy Night"
Would you believe the original poem used to write the lyrics for this song was written in 1847 by a wine merchant who wrote poetry as a hobby?
That alone reminds me that God can use anyone to do the most exceptional things. 150 years later we are still singing "O Holy Night" and being touched by the message of the words of a recreational poet.
O Holy Night Sung by Faith Hill
"O Holy Night" Lyrics as sung by Faith Hill
O holy night, the stars are brightly shining;
It is the night of our dear Savior's birth!
Long lay the world in sin and error pining,
Till He appeared and the soul felt its worth.
The thrill of hope, the weary soul rejoices,
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.
Fall on your knees, O hear the angel voices!
O night divine, O night when Christ was born!
O night divine, O night, O night divine!
Midnight, Christians, it's the solemn hour,
When God-man descended to us
To erase the stain of original sin
And to end the wrath of His Father.
The entire world thrills with hope
On this night that gives it a Savior.
People kneel down, wait for your deliverance.
Christmas, Christmas, here is the Redeemer,
Christmas, Christmas, here is the Redeemer!
The ardent light of our Faith,
Guides us all to the cradle of the infant,
As in ancient times a brilliant star
Conducted the Magi there from the orient.
The King of kings was born in a humble manger;
O mighty ones of today, proud of your grandeur,
It is to your pride that God preaches.
Bow your heads before the Redeemer!
Bow your heads before the Redeemer!
The Redeemer has overcome every obstacle:
The Earth is free, and Heaven is open.
He sees a brother where there was only a slave,
Love unites those that iron had chained.
Who will tell Him of our gratitude,
For all of us He is born, He suffers and dies.
People stand up! Sing of your deliverance,
Christmas, Christmas, sing of the Redeemer,
Christmas, Christmas, sing of the Redeemer!
Adams via Wikamedia Commons
The Music of "O Holy Night"
The music for "O Holy Night" was composed by Adolphe Charles Adam, a prolific writer and composer. Adolphe Charles Adam was the son of a concert pianist and was trained from a very early age in music and piano. He wrote his first opera in his mid-twenties and two operas per year thereafter. After failed investments in a new Opera House in France, Adam was rescued from certain poverty by the Paris Conservatory who appointed him as a professor of music where he taught until the time of his death.
O Holy Night Sung by Josh Groban
"O Holy Night" Lyrics as sung by Josh Groban
O Holy night, the stars are brightly shining.
It is the night of our dear Savior's birth.
Long lay the world in sin and error pining,
Till he appeared and the soul felt its worth.
A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices,
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.
Fall on your knees! Oh hear the angel voices!
Oh night divine! Oh night when Christ was born!
Oh night divine! Oh night! Oh night divine!
Chains shall he break for the slave is our brother,
and in his name all oppression shall cease.
Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we;
Let all within us praise his holy name.
Christ is the lord, that ever, ever praise we.
Noel! Noel! Oh night;oh night divine!
Noel! Noel! Oh night; oh night divine!
Noel! Noel! Oh night; oh night divine!
Fessenden via Wikimedia Commons
"O Holy Night" Published, Translated and First Song Broadcast on the Radio
"O Holy Night" was originally published in French and entitled "Christian Midnight." John Dwight, an ordained Unitarian minister and great promoter of European classical music, translated "Christian Midnight" into the English hymn, "O Holy Night." "O Holy Night" was the first song broadcast over the radio. It aired on December 24, 1906 when an Canadian Inventor named Reginald Fessenden, pictured on right, broadcast the first AM radio program in which he played the song on his violin. Needless to say, I applaud his selection on song to share with the world.
To Purchase Your Own Copy of the Featured Vocalist
Plus, If You Would Like to Learn the History of More Hymns, I Recommend the Featured Book Below
May You All Be Blessed by the One Who Was Born on that Holy Night!
O Holy Night Music Review Written by:
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
Sometimes during the holiday season we can get so busy with all of our Christmas planning, decorating, shopping and baking that we forget to take the time to stop and enjoy the season. I like to do something different each year that helps me to relax and enjoy the season. On this page I will review the activity for this year, a "Photo Walk" on a popular historic street all decorated for Christmas. For our walk, I met with four other photographers in the historic area of St. Charles, Missouri. We met at the old train depot on the riverfront.
St. Charles is located on the Missouri river on the eastern side of the state of Missouri. It is just west of the St. Louis area. St. Charles served as the first capitol of the state of Missouri from 1821-1826. Today the main street area is a popular tourist attraction with lots of shops and restaurants. They go all out for Christmas with lots of decoration throughout the historic area.
Our group spent a couple of hours wandering through the area with our cameras and stopping to take photos of anything we found interesting. We then stopped at a restaurant to enjoy some time together reviewing our morning and discussing photography. It was a great way to relax and meet new friends.
I was interested in all of the beautiful wreaths hanging on the storefronts. I photographed many of them and made the collage below of the different wreaths.
An interesting building we stopped at just off Main street was a reproduction of the first church in St. Charles. The first church was a Catholic church built in 1791 called San Carlos Borromeo. The reproduction was done using the same type tools as the original.
I took nearly 200 photos during the morning. Here are a few of my favorites.
Shops along Main Street. I love the cobblestone streets and walks.
An old sleigh, decorated and sitting on a door stoop.
May you enjoy your preparations for the Christmas season and take some time to unwind as we prepare to celebrate the birthday of Jesus.
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
.jpg)
