The Emancipator's Wife

The Emancipator's Wife by Barbara Hambly

My review

rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Emancipator's Wife is a fictionalized biography of Mary Todd Lincoln. Rather than paint her as someone whose mental illness encompasses her entire personality, the book portrays Mrs. Lincoln as someone who is witty and intelligent and truly struggles with the way her mental illness impacts her life.

Author Barbara Hambly takes into account the many other factors that could have come into play to explain Mary Lincoln's unstable behavior, not the least of which were the drugs that were rampant in unregulated "women's cordials" that Mrs. Lincoln was known to have taken. Nineteenth century mental health care was as unscientific as much of the medical care of the time, for those who were well to do enough to afford any at all.

The privileged life led by Mary Todd Lincoln is juxtaposed with the life of another woman similarly affected by mental illness--a fictional black woman whose son's first hand experience in dealing with the behavior brought on by her mental illness leads him to work in Bellevue, the sanitarium that Mary is placed in after Robert Lincoln asks the court to declare her insane.

Hambly ends the book by pointing to sexism as a key reason for society's lack of tolerance of "eccentric" behavior in women, when men's place of power in the community protects them from similar isolating treatment.

In the Epilogue Hambly explains her research and authorship decisions in a broad but satisfying way.

Excellent book!




View all my reviews.

The Emancipator's Wife

The Emancipator's Wife by Barbara Hambly

My review

rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Emancipator's Wife is a fictionalized biography of Mary Todd Lincoln. Rather than paint her as someone whose mental illness encompasses her entire personality, the book portrays Mrs. Lincoln as someone who is witty and intelligent and truly struggles with the way her mental illness impacts her life.

Author Barbara Hambly takes into account the many other factors that could have come into play to explain Mary Lincoln's unstable behavior, not the least of which were the drugs that were rampant in unregulated "women's cordials" that Mrs. Lincoln was known to have taken. Nineteenth century mental health care was as unscientific as much of the medical care of the time, for those who were well to do enough to afford any at all.

The privileged life led by Mary Todd Lincoln is juxtaposed with the life of another woman similarly affected by mental illness--a fictional black woman whose son's first hand experience in dealing with the behavior brought on by her mental illness leads him to work in Bellevue, the sanitarium that Mary is placed in after Robert Lincoln asks the court to declare her insane.

Hambly ends the book by pointing to sexism as a key reason for society's lack of tolerance of "eccentric" behavior in women, when men's place of power in the community protects them from similar isolating treatment.

In the Epilogue Hambly explains her research and authorship decisions in a broad but satisfying way.

Excellent book!




View all my reviews.

I Found My Thrill

One of my pet peeves is people who put unnecessary quotation marks around words. Now, there is a blog dedicated to such perplexing punctuation mistakes--The "Blog" of "Unnecessary" Quotation Marks.

Quotation marks around a word or phrase that do not indicate a person speaking, are used to indicate irony. When people use them instead, for emphasis, interpreting the supposed ironic meaning behind the quotes can be a hilarious venture.

This is the idea behind The "Blog" of "Unnecessary" Quotation Marks. Bethany Keeley, the blog's author, likes to reinterpret the meaning of signs that misuse quotation marks and speculate about their supposed irony.

One of my favorite misuses of quotation marks is when stores put their sale signs in quotes. So...its not really a sale? You are admitting that you jacked up the price artificially so that your "sale" is not really a sale? Because, that's what you are saying when you put "sale" in quotes.

Anyway, stop by Bethany's blog and have a laugh at the misused quotes.

The "sale" pic above is from The "Blog" of "Unnecessary" Quotation Marks.

I Found My Thrill

One of my pet peeves is people who put unnecessary quotation marks around words. Now, there is a blog dedicated to such perplexing punctuation mistakes--The "Blog" of "Unnecessary" Quotation Marks.

Quotation marks around a word or phrase that do not indicate a person speaking, are used to indicate irony. When people use them instead, for emphasis, interpreting the supposed ironic meaning behind the quotes can be a hilarious venture.

This is the idea behind The "Blog" of "Unnecessary" Quotation Marks. Bethany Keeley, the blog's author, likes to reinterpret the meaning of signs that misuse quotation marks and speculate about their supposed irony.

One of my favorite misuses of quotation marks is when stores put their sale signs in quotes. So...its not really a sale? You are admitting that you jacked up the price artificially so that your "sale" is not really a sale? Because, that's what you are saying when you put "sale" in quotes.

Anyway, stop by Bethany's blog and have a laugh at the misused quotes.

The "sale" pic above is from The "Blog" of "Unnecessary" Quotation Marks.

He plays piano as well!

Here is a video of Fred Astaire playing piano (after stopping to tune it!) The dance to "I'm Putting All My Eggs in one Basket" with Ginger Rogers follows.

He plays piano as well!

Here is a video of Fred Astaire playing piano (after stopping to tune it!) The dance to "I'm Putting All My Eggs in one Basket" with Ginger Rogers follows.

Schlom Lecht Maryam.

In honor of today's Solemnity of the Annunciation, I am posting this chant. This is the Ave Maria (Hail Mary) in Syriac, a dialect of Arabic, the language spoken by Jesus and Mary. The Hail Mary is taken mainly from the angel Gabriel's words to Mary at the Annunciation in the Gospel of Luke.

Schlom Lecht Maryam.

In honor of today's Solemnity of the Annunciation, I am posting this chant. This is the Ave Maria (Hail Mary) in Syriac, a dialect of Arabic, the language spoken by Jesus and Mary. The Hail Mary is taken mainly from the angel Gabriel's words to Mary at the Annunciation in the Gospel of Luke.

The Feast of the Annuncation

Today is the Feast of the Annunciation, when Mary, a girl of barely 14 or 15, accepted an unplanned pregnancy to bear the Savior of the World.

Things are not always what they seem on the surface. God has a purpose for everything.

All things work together for good for those who love the Lord.
~Romans 8:28

The Feast of the Annuncation

Today is the Feast of the Annunciation, when Mary, a girl of barely 14 or 15, accepted an unplanned pregnancy to bear the Savior of the World.

Things are not always what they seem on the surface. God has a purpose for everything.

All things work together for good for those who love the Lord.
~Romans 8:28

Cover the Uninsured Week

The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops is co-sponsoring Cover the Uninsured Week, March 22-28. Health care parity in this country is abominable. Forty-six million Americans are currently without health care coverage and many are in danger due to the worsening economy. People must often choose between health care and food or shelter. It is time something is done.

The picture above is from St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Gettysburg, PA.

Prayer for the Uninsured (from the USCCB website)

Father of goodness and love,
hear our prayers for the uninsured members of our community
and for all who are in need.
For those who seek care but find that it is out of reach,
may they find consolation in your healing presence.
For all who are blessed with health and security,
may they work to fulfill the needs of those who are sick and insecure.

For leaders who make decisions that affect the health and well-being of others, may they strive to ensure the fundamental right to health care.
We ask this through Christ our Lord
who healed those who believed.

Amen

Cover the Uninsured Week

The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops is co-sponsoring Cover the Uninsured Week, March 22-28. Health care parity in this country is abominable. Forty-six million Americans are currently without health care coverage and many are in danger due to the worsening economy. People must often choose between health care and food or shelter. It is time something is done.

The picture above is from St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Gettysburg, PA.

Prayer for the Uninsured (from the USCCB website)

Father of goodness and love,
hear our prayers for the uninsured members of our community
and for all who are in need.
For those who seek care but find that it is out of reach,
may they find consolation in your healing presence.
For all who are blessed with health and security,
may they work to fulfill the needs of those who are sick and insecure.

For leaders who make decisions that affect the health and well-being of others, may they strive to ensure the fundamental right to health care.
We ask this through Christ our Lord
who healed those who believed.

Amen

St. Joesph Novena--Day Nine

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Come to my aid, O God. O Lord, make haste to help me.

Almighty God, Father of mercies and giver of all good gifts, I come before you to honor you in your saints and ask their help in my many needs.

You promised those who ask, would receive, those who seek, would find, those who knock, would have doors opened to them.

Hear the prayers of your church, grant my requests, and pardon my sins. Amen.

St. Joseph, just and true, with a father's care you raised the child Jesus, and with a husband's love, you shared your life with Mary, his mother.

I entrust myself to your care and place in your hands this request of mine (say request)….

In quiet Nazareth, long ago, the Holy Spirit spoke to your heart and you followed God's will with wonderful faith.

In the quiet of my days, and in the hard choices I must make, help me follow the Spirit's guidance and believe when I cannot see.

Day 9

Bless all families, O Lord especially those in need. Remembering the life of your Son, we pray for the poor, for those who lack a good home, for those in exile. Grant them a protector like Joseph, O God.

St. Joesph Novena--Day Nine

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Come to my aid, O God. O Lord, make haste to help me.

Almighty God, Father of mercies and giver of all good gifts, I come before you to honor you in your saints and ask their help in my many needs.

You promised those who ask, would receive, those who seek, would find, those who knock, would have doors opened to them.

Hear the prayers of your church, grant my requests, and pardon my sins. Amen.

St. Joseph, just and true, with a father's care you raised the child Jesus, and with a husband's love, you shared your life with Mary, his mother.

I entrust myself to your care and place in your hands this request of mine (say request)….

In quiet Nazareth, long ago, the Holy Spirit spoke to your heart and you followed God's will with wonderful faith.

In the quiet of my days, and in the hard choices I must make, help me follow the Spirit's guidance and believe when I cannot see.

Day 9

Bless all families, O Lord especially those in need. Remembering the life of your Son, we pray for the poor, for those who lack a good home, for those in exile. Grant them a protector like Joseph, O God.

No More Freedom of Conscience

The Obama administration has officially stated its expected intention to rescind the 2008 U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services regulation stating that health care providers have a right to abstain from providing services that their consciences will not allow them to perform.

The 2008 regulation stated the following:

U.S.C. 300a-7 (C)(2) prohibits any entity that receives a grant or contract for biomedical research under any program administered by the Department from discriminating against any physician or other health care personnel in employment, promotion, termination of employment or extension of staff or other privileges, because he performed or assisted in the performance of any lawful health service or research activity or because he refused to perform or the assist in the performance of any such service or activity on the grounds that his performance of such service or activity would be contrary to his religious beliefs or moral convictions...

The current administration has proposed rescinding this regulation, requiring all health care providers to perform or assist in procedures whether or not they are against their religious or moral beliefs. This sets a horrendous precedent in our country. The United States was founded on certain freedoms that are being taken away while we watch--or, don't watch, as it were. Freedom of conscience is a cornerstone value on which our country was founded and it is being taken away in our lifetimes. We ask ourselves, those of us who ponder these things, how the citizens of Nazi Germany stood by and let people's rights as human beings be taken away before their very eyes.

We are in danger of ceasing to be a free country, ladies and gentlemen.

No More Freedom of Conscience

The Obama administration has officially stated its expected intention to rescind the 2008 U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services regulation stating that health care providers have a right to abstain from providing services that their consciences will not allow them to perform.

The 2008 regulation stated the following:

U.S.C. 300a-7 (C)(2) prohibits any entity that receives a grant or contract for biomedical research under any program administered by the Department from discriminating against any physician or other health care personnel in employment, promotion, termination of employment or extension of staff or other privileges, because he performed or assisted in the performance of any lawful health service or research activity or because he refused to perform or the assist in the performance of any such service or activity on the grounds that his performance of such service or activity would be contrary to his religious beliefs or moral convictions...

The current administration has proposed rescinding this regulation, requiring all health care providers to perform or assist in procedures whether or not they are against their religious or moral beliefs. This sets a horrendous precedent in our country. The United States was founded on certain freedoms that are being taken away while we watch--or, don't watch, as it were. Freedom of conscience is a cornerstone value on which our country was founded and it is being taken away in our lifetimes. We ask ourselves, those of us who ponder these things, how the citizens of Nazi Germany stood by and let people's rights as human beings be taken away before their very eyes.

We are in danger of ceasing to be a free country, ladies and gentlemen.

Figure Eight

In spite of my intense dislike of all things math, this is my favorite School House Rock. (This and Conjunction Junction, of course.)


When I watch this, I can't help but wonder if today's kids know what a figure 8 in skating is, now that they no longer require it as part of "figure skating" in the Olympics.

Figure Eight

In spite of my intense dislike of all things math, this is my favorite School House Rock. (This and Conjunction Junction, of course.)


When I watch this, I can't help but wonder if today's kids know what a figure 8 in skating is, now that they no longer require it as part of "figure skating" in the Olympics.

St. Joseph Novena--Day Eight

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Come to my aid, O God. O Lord, make haste to help me.

Almighty God, Father of mercies and giver of all good gifts, I come before you to honor you in your saints and ask their help in my many needs.

You promised those who ask, would receive, those who seek, would find, those who knock, would have doors opened to them.

Hear the prayers of your church, grant my requests, and pardon my sins. Amen.

St. Joseph, just and true, with a father's care you raised the child Jesus, and with a husband's love, you shared your life with Mary, his mother.

I entrust myself to your care and place in your hands this request of mine (say request)….

In quiet Nazareth, long ago, the Holy Spirit spoke to your heart and you followed God's will with wonderful faith.

In the quiet of my days, and in the hard choices I must make, help me follow the Spirit's guidance and believe when I cannot see.


Day 8
Give shelter, O God, to those who need it, and bring together families divided. Give us enough to eat, and decent work to earn our bread. Care for us, O God.

St. Joseph Novena--Day Eight

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Come to my aid, O God. O Lord, make haste to help me.

Almighty God, Father of mercies and giver of all good gifts, I come before you to honor you in your saints and ask their help in my many needs.

You promised those who ask, would receive, those who seek, would find, those who knock, would have doors opened to them.

Hear the prayers of your church, grant my requests, and pardon my sins. Amen.

St. Joseph, just and true, with a father's care you raised the child Jesus, and with a husband's love, you shared your life with Mary, his mother.

I entrust myself to your care and place in your hands this request of mine (say request)….

In quiet Nazareth, long ago, the Holy Spirit spoke to your heart and you followed God's will with wonderful faith.

In the quiet of my days, and in the hard choices I must make, help me follow the Spirit's guidance and believe when I cannot see.


Day 8
Give shelter, O God, to those who need it, and bring together families divided. Give us enough to eat, and decent work to earn our bread. Care for us, O God.

St. Joseph Novena--Day Seven

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Come to my aid, O God. O Lord, make haste to help me.

Almighty God, Father of mercies and giver of all good gifts, I come before you to honor you in your saints and ask their help in my many needs.

You promised those who ask, would receive, those who seek, would find, those who knock, would have doors opened to them.

Hear the prayers of your church, grant my requests, and pardon my sins. Amen.

St. Joseph, just and true, with a father's care you raised the child Jesus, and with a husband's love, you shared your life with Mary, his mother.

I entrust myself to your care and place in your hands this request of mine (say request).

In quiet Nazareth, long ago, the Holy Spirit spoke to your heart and you followed God's will with wonderful faith.

In the quiet of my days, and in the hard choices I must make, help me follow the Spirit's guidance and believe when I cannot see.

Day 7
God, our Father, give your fatherly spirit to those who are fathers now. Like Joseph, give them hearts of devoted love for their wives and children and strength for forgiveness and patience.

St. Joseph Novena--Day Seven

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Come to my aid, O God. O Lord, make haste to help me.

Almighty God, Father of mercies and giver of all good gifts, I come before you to honor you in your saints and ask their help in my many needs.

You promised those who ask, would receive, those who seek, would find, those who knock, would have doors opened to them.

Hear the prayers of your church, grant my requests, and pardon my sins. Amen.

St. Joseph, just and true, with a father's care you raised the child Jesus, and with a husband's love, you shared your life with Mary, his mother.

I entrust myself to your care and place in your hands this request of mine (say request).

In quiet Nazareth, long ago, the Holy Spirit spoke to your heart and you followed God's will with wonderful faith.

In the quiet of my days, and in the hard choices I must make, help me follow the Spirit's guidance and believe when I cannot see.

Day 7
God, our Father, give your fatherly spirit to those who are fathers now. Like Joseph, give them hearts of devoted love for their wives and children and strength for forgiveness and patience.

large families
quiet and well behaved
in my dreams

From Today's Morning Prayer

Some words of wisdom from this morning's Morning Prayer.

It is good to seek shelter in the Lord,

better than to trust in men.

~Psalm 117 (118)

This day is sacred to the Lord your God. Do not be mournful, do not weep. For this day is sacred to our Lord. Do not be sad: the joy of the Lord is your stronghold.

~Nehemiah 8:9,10

Given my recent near constant concern with getting proper care for both my mom and aunt, I thought this morning's readings from Morning Prayer were appropriate.

From Today's Morning Prayer

Some words of wisdom from this morning's Morning Prayer.

It is good to seek shelter in the Lord,

better than to trust in men.

~Psalm 117 (118)

This day is sacred to the Lord your God. Do not be mournful, do not weep. For this day is sacred to our Lord. Do not be sad: the joy of the Lord is your stronghold.

~Nehemiah 8:9,10

Given my recent near constant concern with getting proper care for both my mom and aunt, I thought this morning's readings from Morning Prayer were appropriate.

St. Joseph Novena--Day Six

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Come to my aid, O God. O Lord, make haste to help me.

Almighty God, Father of mercies and giver of all good gifts, I come before you to honor you in your saints and ask their help in my many needs.

You promised those who ask, would receive, those who seek, would find, those who knock, would have doors opened to them.

Hear the prayers of your church, grant my requests, and pardon my sins. Amen.

St. Joseph, just and true, with a father's care you raised the child Jesus, and with a husband's love, you shared your life with Mary, his mother.

I entrust myself to your care and place in your hands this request of mine (say request)….

In quiet Nazareth, long ago, the Holy Spirit spoke to your heart and you followed God's will with wonderful faith.

In the quiet of my days, and in the hard choices I must make, help me follow the Spirit's guidance and believe when I cannot see.

Day 6
God of our heavenly home, bless our home on earth. Let the spirit of Mary and Joseph rest at our table, shape our words and actions, and bring blessing to our children.

St. Joseph Novena--Day Six

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Come to my aid, O God. O Lord, make haste to help me.

Almighty God, Father of mercies and giver of all good gifts, I come before you to honor you in your saints and ask their help in my many needs.

You promised those who ask, would receive, those who seek, would find, those who knock, would have doors opened to them.

Hear the prayers of your church, grant my requests, and pardon my sins. Amen.

St. Joseph, just and true, with a father's care you raised the child Jesus, and with a husband's love, you shared your life with Mary, his mother.

I entrust myself to your care and place in your hands this request of mine (say request)….

In quiet Nazareth, long ago, the Holy Spirit spoke to your heart and you followed God's will with wonderful faith.

In the quiet of my days, and in the hard choices I must make, help me follow the Spirit's guidance and believe when I cannot see.

Day 6
God of our heavenly home, bless our home on earth. Let the spirit of Mary and Joseph rest at our table, shape our words and actions, and bring blessing to our children.

Tea Room Review

I was saddened recently to discover that Gettysburg has lost its tea rooms. Yes, all of them.

However, just outside Gettysburg in Hunterstown, is the beautiful Cross and Bluebird tea room run by Laurie and Roger inside the Historic Tate Farm. The farm itself was built in the 1700s and is FULL of fascinating history, both before and after the Civil War, which Laurie is more than happy to fill you in on.

You are greeted by their cats, sheep, chickens and roosters as you enter. Inside, the home itself is full of enchanting history and decor and exudes a real sense of peace.

The tea, from Harney and Sons, is sublime, matched only by Laurie's cooking, which is gourmet quality with very generous portions. The price is very reasonable and it is well worth the drive to PA for this wonderful get-away.

Tea Room Review

I was saddened recently to discover that Gettysburg has lost its tea rooms. Yes, all of them.

However, just outside Gettysburg in Hunterstown, is the beautiful Cross and Bluebird tea room run by Laurie and Roger inside the Historic Tate Farm. The farm itself was built in the 1700s and is FULL of fascinating history, both before and after the Civil War, which Laurie is more than happy to fill you in on.

You are greeted by their cats, sheep, chickens and roosters as you enter. Inside, the home itself is full of enchanting history and decor and exudes a real sense of peace.

The tea, from Harney and Sons, is sublime, matched only by Laurie's cooking, which is gourmet quality with very generous portions. The price is very reasonable and it is well worth the drive to PA for this wonderful get-away.

New Colors

Once again I have changed the colors on the blog, this time, to a pink-ish color, in honor of Laetere Sunday. Laetere is Latin for rejoice which is the first word of the introit for this Sunday's Mass--Laetare, Jerusalem, Rejoice, O Jerusalem.

It is similar in tone and focus to Gaudete Sunday, the third Sunday in Advent, when the priest will, once again, wear rose colored vestments.

New Colors

Once again I have changed the colors on the blog, this time, to a pink-ish color, in honor of Laetere Sunday. Laetere is Latin for rejoice which is the first word of the introit for this Sunday's Mass--Laetare, Jerusalem, Rejoice, O Jerusalem.

It is similar in tone and focus to Gaudete Sunday, the third Sunday in Advent, when the priest will, once again, wear rose colored vestments.

St. Joseph Novena--Day Five

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Come to my aid, O God. O Lord, make haste to help me.

Almighty God, Father of mercies and giver of all good gifts, I come before you to honor you in your saints and ask their help in my many needs.

You promised those who ask, would receive, those who seek, would find, those who knock, would have doors opened to them.

Hear the prayers of your church, grant my requests, and pardon my sins. Amen.

St. Joseph, just and true, with a father's care you raised the child Jesus, and with a husband's love, you shared your life with Mary, his mother.

I entrust myself to your care and place in your hands this request of mine (say request)….

In quiet Nazareth, long ago, the Holy Spirit spoke to your heart and you followed God's will with wonderful faith.

In the quiet of my days, and in the hard choices I must make, help me follow the Spirit's guidance and believe when I cannot see.

Day 5
O God, who loves children, be kind to our children today. Give them eyes of faith for seeing far, a loving heart for welcoming life, and a place always at your side.

St. Joseph Novena--Day Five

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Come to my aid, O God. O Lord, make haste to help me.

Almighty God, Father of mercies and giver of all good gifts, I come before you to honor you in your saints and ask their help in my many needs.

You promised those who ask, would receive, those who seek, would find, those who knock, would have doors opened to them.

Hear the prayers of your church, grant my requests, and pardon my sins. Amen.

St. Joseph, just and true, with a father's care you raised the child Jesus, and with a husband's love, you shared your life with Mary, his mother.

I entrust myself to your care and place in your hands this request of mine (say request)….

In quiet Nazareth, long ago, the Holy Spirit spoke to your heart and you followed God's will with wonderful faith.

In the quiet of my days, and in the hard choices I must make, help me follow the Spirit's guidance and believe when I cannot see.

Day 5
O God, who loves children, be kind to our children today. Give them eyes of faith for seeing far, a loving heart for welcoming life, and a place always at your side.

Mr. Roger's Sweater Day

Today is Fred Roger's Birthday. He would have been 81 years old today, had he not died of cancer in 2003.

Family Communications, Inc. of Pittsburgh sponsors Mr. Roger's Sweater Day every March 20th in honor of the children's television host, musician and Christian minister. They ask that you wear your favorite sweater today, and make a special effort to be neighborly.

Visit Pittsburgh has a list of suggestions for being neighborly today.

• smile
• plant a tree
• say thank you
• recycle
• give the gift of laughter
• offer to take a shopping cart back for someone loading their groceries in their car
• shop with reusable bags
• donate to your favorite charity
• save throw-aways for children's art projects
• share a hug
• be a friend by listening
• compliment someone
• visit your local library

I would like to add a few of my own:

• visit an elderly relative
• help someone move
• share the gift of music
• help someone do their taxes
• shovel a neighbor's walk
• rake someone's leaves
• cut a neighbor's grass
• babysit a neighbor's child
• walk a neighbor's dog
• do someone's dishes
  

Happy Mr. Roger's Sweater Day!

Mr. Roger's Sweater Day

Today is Fred Roger's Birthday. He would have been 81 years old today, had he not died of cancer in 2003.

Family Communications, Inc. of Pittsburgh sponsors Mr. Roger's Sweater Day every March 20th in honor of the children's television host, musician and Christian minister. They ask that you wear your favorite sweater today, and make a special effort to be neighborly.

Visit Pittsburgh has a list of suggestions for being neighborly today.

• smile
• plant a tree
• say thank you
• recycle
• give the gift of laughter
• offer to take a shopping cart back for someone loading their groceries in their car
• shop with reusable bags
• donate to your favorite charity
• save throw-aways for children's art projects
• share a hug
• be a friend by listening
• compliment someone
• visit your local library

I would like to add a few of my own:

• visit an elderly relative
• help someone move
• share the gift of music
• help someone do their taxes
• shovel a neighbor's walk
• rake someone's leaves
• cut a neighbor's grass
• babysit a neighbor's child
• walk a neighbor's dog
• do someone's dishes
  

Happy Mr. Roger's Sweater Day!

Fred Astaire Friday

This Fred Astaire vid is a funny one, especially for those of us who remember records.

Fred Astaire Friday

This Fred Astaire vid is a funny one, especially for those of us who remember records.

St. Joseph Novena--Day Four

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Come to my aid, O God. O Lord, make haste to help me.

Almighty God, Father of mercies and giver of all good gifts, I come before you to honor you in your saints and ask their help in my many needs.

You promised those who ask, would receive, those who seek, would find, those who knock, would have doors opened to them.

Hear the prayers of your church, grant my requests, and pardon my sins. Amen.

St. Joseph, just and true, with a father's care you raised the child Jesus, and with a husband's love, you shared your life with Mary, his mother.

I entrust myself to your care and place in your hands this request of mine (say request)….

In quiet Nazareth, long ago, the Holy Spirit spoke to your heart and you followed God's will with wonderful faith.

In the quiet of my days, and in the hard choices I must make, help me follow the Spirit's guidance and believe when I cannot see.


Day 4
God of families, bless the family that's mine. Keep us safe from harm, and never let evil come between us. Let peace remain in our hearts.

St. Joseph Novena--Day Four

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Come to my aid, O God. O Lord, make haste to help me.

Almighty God, Father of mercies and giver of all good gifts, I come before you to honor you in your saints and ask their help in my many needs.

You promised those who ask, would receive, those who seek, would find, those who knock, would have doors opened to them.

Hear the prayers of your church, grant my requests, and pardon my sins. Amen.

St. Joseph, just and true, with a father's care you raised the child Jesus, and with a husband's love, you shared your life with Mary, his mother.

I entrust myself to your care and place in your hands this request of mine (say request)….

In quiet Nazareth, long ago, the Holy Spirit spoke to your heart and you followed God's will with wonderful faith.

In the quiet of my days, and in the hard choices I must make, help me follow the Spirit's guidance and believe when I cannot see.


Day 4
God of families, bless the family that's mine. Keep us safe from harm, and never let evil come between us. Let peace remain in our hearts.

Saint Joseph Novena, Day Three

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Come to my aid, O God. O Lord, make haste to help me.

Almighty God, Father of mercies and giver of all good gifts, I come before you to honor you in your saints and ask their help in my many needs.

You promised those who ask, would receive, those who seek, would find, those who knock, would have doors opened to them.

Hear the prayers of your church, grant my requests, and pardon my sins. Amen.

St. Joseph, just and true, with a father's care you raised the child Jesus, and with a husband's love, you shared your life with Mary, his mother.

I entrust myself to your care and place in your hands this request of mine (say request)….

In quiet Nazareth, long ago, the Holy Spirit spoke to your heart and you followed God's will with wonderful faith.

In the quiet of my days, and in the hard choices I must make, help me follow the Spirit's guidance and believe when I cannot see.


Day 3
O God, ever faithful, you remember us always and in time reveal your blessings. Help me trust in you, as St. Joseph faithfully trusted, and never let me lose faith in the wonderful gifts you promise me.

Saint Joseph Novena, Day Three

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Come to my aid, O God. O Lord, make haste to help me.

Almighty God, Father of mercies and giver of all good gifts, I come before you to honor you in your saints and ask their help in my many needs.

You promised those who ask, would receive, those who seek, would find, those who knock, would have doors opened to them.

Hear the prayers of your church, grant my requests, and pardon my sins. Amen.

St. Joseph, just and true, with a father's care you raised the child Jesus, and with a husband's love, you shared your life with Mary, his mother.

I entrust myself to your care and place in your hands this request of mine (say request)….

In quiet Nazareth, long ago, the Holy Spirit spoke to your heart and you followed God's will with wonderful faith.

In the quiet of my days, and in the hard choices I must make, help me follow the Spirit's guidance and believe when I cannot see.


Day 3
O God, ever faithful, you remember us always and in time reveal your blessings. Help me trust in you, as St. Joseph faithfully trusted, and never let me lose faith in the wonderful gifts you promise me.

Special Intention

Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle. Be our safeguard against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray. And, do thou, oh prince of the Heavenly Host, by the power of God, cast into hell, Satan, and all the evil spirits that prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls. ~Amen.

Could you all please pray for a special intention that I have for some difficulties my family is currently facing? We especially will need prayers tomorrow. Thank you all so much.

Special Intention

Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle. Be our safeguard against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray. And, do thou, oh prince of the Heavenly Host, by the power of God, cast into hell, Satan, and all the evil spirits that prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls. ~Amen.

Could you all please pray for a special intention that I have for some difficulties my family is currently facing? We especially will need prayers tomorrow. Thank you all so much.

Wednesday Outrageous Watch

Today's Wednesday Outrageous Watch involves none other than former president Bill Clinton. Apparently, his relativistic world view extends even to basic biology. In an interview with CNN’s Sanjay Gupta the former president asserts no less than FIVE times, that an embryo is NOT FERTILIZED. The equally sad and perhaps more disturbing thing about this, is that Mr. Gupta who did not correct Clinton on that point even once during the interview, is the man currently nominated by President Obama to be Surgeon General of the Unites States!!

Wednesday Outrageous Watch

Today's Wednesday Outrageous Watch involves none other than former president Bill Clinton. Apparently, his relativistic world view extends even to basic biology. In an interview with CNN’s Sanjay Gupta the former president asserts no less than FIVE times, that an embryo is NOT FERTILIZED. The equally sad and perhaps more disturbing thing about this, is that Mr. Gupta who did not correct Clinton on that point even once during the interview, is the man currently nominated by President Obama to be Surgeon General of the Unites States!!

St. Joseph Novena

Novena to St. Joseph--Day 2

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Come to my aid, O God. O Lord, make haste to help me.

Almighty God, Father of mercies and giver of all good gifts, I come before you to honor you in your saints and ask their help in my many needs.

You promised those who ask, would receive, those who seek, would find, those who knock, would have doors opened to them.

Hear the prayers of your church, grant my requests, and pardon my sins. Amen.

St. Joseph, just and true, with a father's care you raised the child Jesus, and with a husband's love, you shared your life with Mary, his mother.

I entrust myself to your care and place in your hands this request of mine (say request)….

In quiet Nazareth, long ago, the Holy Spirit spoke to your heart and you followed God's will with wonderful faith.

In the quiet of my days, and in the hard choices I must make, help me follow the Spirit's guidance and believe when I cannot see.

Day 2 O God, you love your people and bless the ordinary lives we quietly live. As you blessed St. Joseph, bless what I do, however hidden and simple it may be, and let all I do be done with love.

St. Joseph Novena

Novena to St. Joseph--Day 2

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Come to my aid, O God. O Lord, make haste to help me.

Almighty God, Father of mercies and giver of all good gifts, I come before you to honor you in your saints and ask their help in my many needs.

You promised those who ask, would receive, those who seek, would find, those who knock, would have doors opened to them.

Hear the prayers of your church, grant my requests, and pardon my sins. Amen.

St. Joseph, just and true, with a father's care you raised the child Jesus, and with a husband's love, you shared your life with Mary, his mother.

I entrust myself to your care and place in your hands this request of mine (say request)….

In quiet Nazareth, long ago, the Holy Spirit spoke to your heart and you followed God's will with wonderful faith.

In the quiet of my days, and in the hard choices I must make, help me follow the Spirit's guidance and believe when I cannot see.

Day 2 O God, you love your people and bless the ordinary lives we quietly live. As you blessed St. Joseph, bless what I do, however hidden and simple it may be, and let all I do be done with love.

St. Joseph Novena

I just discovered yesterday that I need to sell my mom's home in 5 months in order to keep her in the well-run nursing home that she is currently in.

In light of that, I'm starting a Novena to St. Joseph. Perhaps it is not a coincidence that the month of March is dedicated to Saint Joseph. Each day I will post the prayers for the Novena, beginning today.

Novena Prayer to St. Joseph--Day One

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Come to my aid, O God. O Lord, make haste to help me.

Almighty God, Father of mercies and giver of all good gifts, I come before you to honor you in your saints and ask their help in my many needs.

You promised those who ask, would receive, those who seek, would find, those who knock, would have doors opened to them.

Hear the prayers of your church, grant my requests, and pardon my sins. Amen.

St. Joseph, just and true, with a father's care you raised the child Jesus, and with a husband's love, you shared your life with Mary, his mother.

I entrust myself to your care and place in your hands this request of mine (say request)….

In quiet Nazareth, long ago, the Holy Spirit spoke to your heart and you followed God's will with wonderful faith.

In the quiet of my days, and in the hard choices I must make, help me follow the Spirit's guidance and believe when I cannot see.

Day 1

Oh God, guide of those who listen and helper of those who hear your voice, speak to me, as you did to St. Joseph, and help me accomplish the things you give me to do .

St. Joseph Novena

I just discovered yesterday that I need to sell my mom's home in 5 months in order to keep her in the well-run nursing home that she is currently in.

In light of that, I'm starting a Novena to St. Joseph. Perhaps it is not a coincidence that the month of March is dedicated to Saint Joseph. Each day I will post the prayers for the Novena, beginning today.

Novena Prayer to St. Joseph--Day One

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Come to my aid, O God. O Lord, make haste to help me.

Almighty God, Father of mercies and giver of all good gifts, I come before you to honor you in your saints and ask their help in my many needs.

You promised those who ask, would receive, those who seek, would find, those who knock, would have doors opened to them.

Hear the prayers of your church, grant my requests, and pardon my sins. Amen.

St. Joseph, just and true, with a father's care you raised the child Jesus, and with a husband's love, you shared your life with Mary, his mother.

I entrust myself to your care and place in your hands this request of mine (say request)….

In quiet Nazareth, long ago, the Holy Spirit spoke to your heart and you followed God's will with wonderful faith.

In the quiet of my days, and in the hard choices I must make, help me follow the Spirit's guidance and believe when I cannot see.

Day 1

Oh God, guide of those who listen and helper of those who hear your voice, speak to me, as you did to St. Joseph, and help me accomplish the things you give me to do .

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

While you sleep among the sheepfolds,

the wings of the dove shine with silver,

her feathers glow with green gold.
~Psalm 67

(From this morning's Office of Readings.)

According to American Catholic, St. Patrick was born either in Dunbarton, Scotland, Cumberland, England, or in northern Wales. At the age of 16, he was captured and sold into slavery in Ireland. Forced to remain outside for long periods of time tending his master's flock, he prayed constantly and experienced a conversion.

He escaped after 6 years, probably to France, and later to Britain. He returned to Ireland a priest, and paid the price of his ransom to his former master, Milchu of Dalriada.

He converted pagan Ireland, the country that had formerly enslaved him, to Christianity.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

While you sleep among the sheepfolds,

the wings of the dove shine with silver,

her feathers glow with green gold.
~Psalm 67

(From this morning's Office of Readings.)

According to American Catholic, St. Patrick was born either in Dunbarton, Scotland, Cumberland, England, or in northern Wales. At the age of 16, he was captured and sold into slavery in Ireland. Forced to remain outside for long periods of time tending his master's flock, he prayed constantly and experienced a conversion.

He escaped after 6 years, probably to France, and later to Britain. He returned to Ireland a priest, and paid the price of his ransom to his former master, Milchu of Dalriada.

He converted pagan Ireland, the country that had formerly enslaved him, to Christianity.

March Haiku

Cold snow rests
on the old Torii gate.
Red berries bring hope.

Irish Scones from catholicculture.org

Serve these scones with a nice, hot pot of Irish Breakfast tea.

INGREDIENTS
3 cups flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoons cream of tartar
1/2 cup butter, softened
2-3 tablespoons sugar
1/2-3/4 cup milk or buttermilk
1/2-1 cup currants or raisins
3 Tablespoons brandy or cognac (optional)
1 egg, beaten with 1 Tablespoon water
Sanding sugar

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 400° F. In small bowl combine brandy with the currants or raisins. This can be done overnight, the longer the better (optional step). Sift flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar into a large bowl. Add softened butter and sugar, mixing well. Stir in 1/2 cup milk and currants (or other fruit), with brandy liquid drained. If mixture is dry, add a bit more milk. Dough should resemble pie pastry, pressing together forms a dough. Press dough onto a floured surface and roll out gently to 1/2-inch thickness. Do not overstress the dough. Cut scones into round shapes using biscuit cutter or shape into triangles. Brush scones with egg wash for shine, and sprinkle with sanding sugar. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Yield: 16 3" scones
Prep Time: 40 minutes

Irish Scones from catholicculture.org

Serve these scones with a nice, hot pot of Irish Breakfast tea.

INGREDIENTS
3 cups flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoons cream of tartar
1/2 cup butter, softened
2-3 tablespoons sugar
1/2-3/4 cup milk or buttermilk
1/2-1 cup currants or raisins
3 Tablespoons brandy or cognac (optional)
1 egg, beaten with 1 Tablespoon water
Sanding sugar

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 400° F. In small bowl combine brandy with the currants or raisins. This can be done overnight, the longer the better (optional step). Sift flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar into a large bowl. Add softened butter and sugar, mixing well. Stir in 1/2 cup milk and currants (or other fruit), with brandy liquid drained. If mixture is dry, add a bit more milk. Dough should resemble pie pastry, pressing together forms a dough. Press dough onto a floured surface and roll out gently to 1/2-inch thickness. Do not overstress the dough. Cut scones into round shapes using biscuit cutter or shape into triangles. Brush scones with egg wash for shine, and sprinkle with sanding sugar. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Yield: 16 3" scones
Prep Time: 40 minutes

The Wearin' of the Green

I thought I'd give us a change of background in honor of St. Patrick's Day. We're back to the Celtic crosses and green, of course!

Saint Patrick's Day is well worth celebrating here because our blog's patroness, Saint Dymphna, was Irish. She was born in Ireland and her father was a pagan Irish king. Dymphna was secretly baptized a Christian. After the death of her mother, her father wanted her as his wife. She fled from him, but he eventually found her and had her killed when she continued to refuse his wishes.

Saint Dymphna is the patron saint of those who suffer from mental illnesses and their caregivers, mental health professionals, incest victims, loss of parents, and runaways.

Here are some links to learn more about Saint Dymphna.

Catholic Encylopedia on Saint Dymphna

The National Shrine of Saint Dymphna

Saint Charles Borromeo Church--Prayers to Saint Dymphna

How to say the Chaplet of Saint Dymphna

An interesting story of a non-believer who took comfort in St. Dymphna while struggling to find help for his mental illness.

The Wearin' of the Green

I thought I'd give us a change of background in honor of St. Patrick's Day. We're back to the Celtic crosses and green, of course!

Saint Patrick's Day is well worth celebrating here because our blog's patroness, Saint Dymphna, was Irish. She was born in Ireland and her father was a pagan Irish king. Dymphna was secretly baptized a Christian. After the death of her mother, her father wanted her as his wife. She fled from him, but he eventually found her and had her killed when she continued to refuse his wishes.

Saint Dymphna is the patron saint of those who suffer from mental illnesses and their caregivers, mental health professionals, incest victims, loss of parents, and runaways.

Here are some links to learn more about Saint Dymphna.

Catholic Encylopedia on Saint Dymphna

The National Shrine of Saint Dymphna

Saint Charles Borromeo Church--Prayers to Saint Dymphna

How to say the Chaplet of Saint Dymphna

An interesting story of a non-believer who took comfort in St. Dymphna while struggling to find help for his mental illness.

Fred Astaire--Sportsman Extraordinaire

This Fred Astaire fan vid juxtaposes Fred Astaire with European football ("soccer"). Ingenious.

Fred Astaire--Sportsman Extraordinaire

This Fred Astaire fan vid juxtaposes Fred Astaire with European football ("soccer"). Ingenious.

Outrageous Bill tabled--rally still on in CT

A wildly outrageous anti-Catholic bill which was due to go to a hearing tomorrow in Connecticut, has been tabled, but word is that the issue is not going away.

The Judiciary Committee of the Connecticut State Legislature, crafted a bill that specifically names only the Catholic Church, and forces it to form lay committees to govern parishes. These lay committees would be "elected from among the lay members of the congregation at an annual meeting." Under the legislation, the bishop and priests would have had no vote at all. This is a blatant attempt to derail the Church's consistent opposition to many things currently happening in today's society.

Due to the outcry against the legislation on grounds of religious freedom, separation of church and state, and constitutionality, the bill has been pulled, but the planned rally in Hartford, CT will still occur on Wednesday.

Keep watch over our rights to freedom of religion in this country. They are being slowly (and in some cases, rather quickly) eroded away.

Outrageous Bill tabled--rally still on in CT

A wildly outrageous anti-Catholic bill which was due to go to a hearing tomorrow in Connecticut, has been tabled, but word is that the issue is not going away.

The Judiciary Committee of the Connecticut State Legislature, crafted a bill that specifically names only the Catholic Church, and forces it to form lay committees to govern parishes. These lay committees would be "elected from among the lay members of the congregation at an annual meeting." Under the legislation, the bishop and priests would have had no vote at all. This is a blatant attempt to derail the Church's consistent opposition to many things currently happening in today's society.

Due to the outcry against the legislation on grounds of religious freedom, separation of church and state, and constitutionality, the bill has been pulled, but the planned rally in Hartford, CT will still occur on Wednesday.

Keep watch over our rights to freedom of religion in this country. They are being slowly (and in some cases, rather quickly) eroded away.

Happy 82nd Birthday!

Today is my mom's 82nd Birthday. She and my aunt were born on the 10th of March in 1927. The third and fourth of seven children, they had three other sisters and two brothers. They were members of their high school class of 1945. My aunt was a telephone operator for 35 years and my mom worked for the president of 7up Bottling Company before marrying my dad in 1959.

Happy Birthday!!!!!

Happy 82nd Birthday!

Today is my mom's 82nd Birthday. She and my aunt were born on the 10th of March in 1927. The third and fourth of seven children, they had three other sisters and two brothers. They were members of their high school class of 1945. My aunt was a telephone operator for 35 years and my mom worked for the president of 7up Bottling Company before marrying my dad in 1959.

Happy Birthday!!!!!

an Alzheimer's stranger,
he wheels in
and joins our party.

Spring Forward Tomorrow

It's time once again to Spring Forward. Tomorrow night, we set our clocks one hour ahead, thus, losing an hour's sleep. But, it means that Spring is not far from the horizon.

Spring Forward Tomorrow

It's time once again to Spring Forward. Tomorrow night, we set our clocks one hour ahead, thus, losing an hour's sleep. But, it means that Spring is not far from the horizon.

Fred Plays the Drums Again

Fred Plays the Drums Again

Married Love

Ancient and bent,
after pushing her wheelchair,
he feeds her.

Tell it to the IRS

Something to remember come April 15th.

Tell it to the IRS

Something to remember come April 15th.

Edward R. Murrow

must be turning over in his grave.
see more Political Pictures

Edward R. Murrow

must be turning over in his grave.
see more Political Pictures

RIP Paul Harvey

Paul Harvey the famous 90 year old broadcaster who worked in the field for 70 years, died yesterday at a Phoenix hospital. He was famous for his "...and now you know the rest of the story" bit as well as for "Paul Harvey news".

May he rest in peace.