Today we are going to honor the Father of our Country, the Commander in Chief of our revolutionary war armies, and the first president of the ‘United States’. He was born in 1732, and would be 289 years old today. I did a little research and found 11 Little Known Facts about President George Washington.

1. Washington had only a grade school education. When his father died (GW was 11), his mother taught him to run the farm and he later worked as a surveyor.
2. At age 22, Washington led a disastrous military skirmish that sparked a world war (At Jumonville, right down the road from here!) He was even called an assassin.
3. Washington’s first love was the wife of one of his best friends. Sally Fairfax took him under her wing and smoothed the rough edges and taught him how to act in society, deal with the wealthy and powerful, and even dance the minuet.
4. He did not have wooden teeth. He ruined his teeth cracking walnuts, and new ones were made from pulling the teeth of the poor people or enslaved workers.
5. He wasn’t always a great general but was an excellent spymaster. The CIA admitted that General Washington was more deeply involved in intelligence operations than any American general-in-chief until Dwight Eisenhower during World War II.
6. When he stepped down as commander-in-chief he did not want to run the country. He longed to be at Mt. Vernon with his family, his animals, and his crops.
7. He had no biological children but was a father figure to many. His wife Martha had two children, Jacky and Patsy, whom he adored.
8. He was really into his animals – he was a mule breeder, and loved birds and dogs, especially hunting dogs with names like Sweet Lips and Madame Moose.
9. He was pretty cagy about his religious beliefs. Never really made strong statements about his faith.
10. Had a complicated relationship with slavery. He supported abolition but owned slaves. He freed them upon his death with instructions that they remain with Martha until her death.
11. He was tough to kill. He had 8 major diseases, almost drowned in a ice-clogged river, survived the massacre at Ft. Necessity, had two horses shot out from under him, and had 4 bullets pierce his clothing. It was a cold turned to epiglottitis that finally got him – but he had made them promise to wait three days to bury him – just in case!

I will share Bram’s message from First Baptist- What do we do now? Jesus told his disciples that he was leaving and they couldn’t come with him. He emphasized what was important to him in his ministry, and they were to carry on the spirit of Jesus’ work. Each one is a part of the body of Christ. The main thing he stressed: LOVE ONE ANOTHER! He left them a new covenant. 1) Love as Jesus loved. 2) loving is evangelistic (share it with others). Preach the gospel at all times, and use words when necessary. 3) “I and the Father are one”. We should be one with one another. We have something important to do to carry on the work of Jesus.

On this day in 1935 ‘The Little Colonel’ with Shirley Temple premiered, with the famous staircase dance. In 1997 Dolly the Sheep: first cloned mammal was announced. Steve Irwin, Crocodile Hunter) was born in 1962 (Died in 2006), and Drew Barrymore in 1975. Andy Warhol died in 1987 at age 58.

TOMORROW February 23 is:

• National Banana Bread Day
• National Dog Biscuit Day
• National Tile Day
• World Spay Day 

I would rather have banana bread than a dog biscuit. Tonight, however, I believe I’ll have a salad. God bless!

We made it out of the deep freeze ok – I think it was 3* at some point. So far as I know, no one had frozen pipes or a distressed heating system – thank heavens! My house made some loud thumps and cracks during the night but nothing that caused alarm. It was wonderful to wake up to sunshine!

I baked the scones and that was breakfast. I listened to Bram, Mike, Rod, and Paul. Then I took a break and ran the sweeper downstairs. Since it was sunny and a heat wave (35*!) I took a drive over to my little fleatique. Didn’t buy anything but like looking around. There were quite a lot of people there. When I got back I wiped out the seats and floors and doors in the Buick. If it gets as warm as predicted on Wednesday I will wash it.

Kath sent me pictures that mom’s best friend and neighbor growing up colored and sent. Kath is going to mail them to Mom – I know Mom would love knowing that Ruth Martin took time to celebrate their friendship, and that she cherishes the memories that they shared through their lifetimes. God bless them both!

I will share Paul’s message from River Hill. He’s still on the series ‘A Little Child Will Lead Them’. It was Faith and Trust in Jesus, with the sub-title Eat out with Jesus! It was about the little boy who brought his lunch to Jesus, who then feed 5000 men plus women and children. Jesus will take what little we have and make a miracle. It’s the only miracle recorded in all four gospels (other than the resurrection). What we offer Jesus is always enough if we trust. We may feel insignificant but God keeps you in his mind, and we need to be willing to be used; that little boy was not even counted in the 5000! BUT – he was prepared to spend the day with Jesus. 1) The WORD was taught to the people. Jesus thought they were sheep without a shepherd, and had compassion. 2) Disciples overemphasized the problem They wanted to send the people away to get food. They forgot that Jesus was God’s son! 3) Jesus fed the crowd and had leftovers, and he will use whatever we bring him. Weren’t there others in the crowd who had food and would not share? How many miracles are denied because we will not share with Jesus. They had the time, skills and money – Jesus said, “YOU feed them” and they did! Don’t underestimate the Master; nothing is impossible for God – it’s up to OUR FAITH. God is a big God – Jesus already knew what would happen. What is impossible with man is possible with God. Be willing to trust God with what you have. Give and it will be multiplied. Jesus will change the world through us – from ordinary to extraordinary!

On this day in 1990 the Batman theme by Danny Elfman won a Grammy for the best instrumental at the 32nd awards. Kelsey Grammer was born in 1955, Jennifer Love Hewitt in 1979. Billy Graham died in 2018 at age 99 – what a great man of God he was, and his legacy lives on. In 1807 US President Martin Van Buren married his high school sweetheart Hannah Hoes, and in 1952 Elizabeth married Michael Wilding (her second marriage; she was 19).

TOMORROW February 22 is:

• National California Day
• National Cook a Sweet Potato Day- Drats – I’m doing that right now….
• National Margarita Day

Even though snow flurries are predicted, the temps will be in the 30’s, 40’s, and even 50’s this week! Let’s celebrate! God bless….

VERY cold again this morning – ‘feels like’ was 3* when I left the house at 8:00am. Ginny and I met at Bob Evans in New Stanton for breakfast. We always do a lot of sharing, a lot of laughing, and our share of eating! I love hearing her Charlie and Gracie (Poodle puppies) stories. And we caught up on each other’s families and work and of course: COVID! Seems to be the topic of most conversations…

And I found my rug! Greensburg’s store said they had 2, but then cancelled my online order. Delmont said they had 4, but cancelled my online order. Norwin said they didn’t have any (but I’m stubborn!) but I ordered thru them and they filled the order in less than 3 hours! Walmart is CRAZY!!! But I’m happy!

I ushered at the Greensburg Civic Center for Bear – the play was I DO! I DO! I DO! I DO! It was almost entirely a musical; very little talking. The two performers were very good. The theater wasn’t crowded but they do live-stream now so they sold many more tickets that way. (And don’t tell the CDC – I got a big thank you hug from Bear! Those are very rare in this COVID-centered age!!!)

I’m going to catch up on one of Mike’s past messages, which I missed posting. About Disrespect as a relationship destroyer. When you devalue or disrespect one of God’s creations, you are disrespecting God. We should respect: 1) Aging – seek their wisdom 2) Parents – honor them and benefit from their care & nurturing 3) Those in authority. Don’t blaspheme boss, teacher, government. You can disagree without being disrespectful. No one is either right or wrong all the time. 4) EVERYONE – show proper respect to everyone, because they are God’s creation. When we disrespect we put ourselves above others. We as a whole have very low regard for life. We will have to give an account; it isn’t going unnoticed. Always show respect: People will notice!

On this day in 1962 John Glenn was the first American to orbit the earth. Sidney Poitier was born in 1927 (First black actor to win an Oscar). Robert Peary died at age 63 in 1920 – he was the first explorer to reach the North Pole (other than Santa). And in 1974 Cher filed for separation from Sonny Bono. And Mike’s wife Shirley Hazelton is having a birthday today – wishing her many, many more happy years surrounded by her family and friends. Happy birthday Shirley!!

TOMORROW February  21 is:

• National Grain-Free Day
• National Sticky Bun Day (And of course, I mixed up scones to bake in the morning!!!)

I’m looking forward to a good night’s sleep, several sermons tomorrow – and an overflow of God’s blessings!!!

Still very cold, and a dusting of snow. Didn’t have to shovel and didn’t go out until after lunch. I was finally able to connect up with Autmn and get her to the new Driver’s Center in Jeannette to get her official PA issued Identification Card! NOW — she is official! And she did it all by herself, not needing anyone to verify any information or identity. She was so excited. I was too, and proud of her. And the new center is amazing! Greensburg’s location was crowded and outdated and inadequate. This place was clean and spacious and moved like a well oiled machine. And the people were super nice and very helpful. Big step for my little girl!

Also finally rolled out the sugar cookies that I mixed up the other night. I decided to just freeze the ‘naked’ cookies. We will frost them as we defrost them (does that even make sense???), a few at a time. I don’t especially like the icing once it is frozen. They taste very good! Thanks to Gail and Colleen for sharing our Grama Crooks’ recipe.

Today I will share Paul’s message from River Hill – still in the series ‘A little child shall lead them.’ It was about the boy Samuel who was raised by Eli in the temple. We learn something every time we go to the house of God – and Samuel was where he needed to be to hear from God. So we need to: 1) be in a place to be able to hear God’s voice to us. Prayer is a conversation, but it’s not just our talking to God. We need to listen, too. 2) need to confirm that it’s really God. 3) we need to eliminate distractions and concentrate on God’s words. Also, A) God doesn’t stop talking because we aren’t listening. We need to be still, and listen. B) We confirm who he is through the word of God (Bible) C) God speaks to us in the quiet. Seek out a quiet place and then listen. D) respond with obedience. Hearing is not enough. We need to obey and serve.

On this day in 1807 Vice President Aaron Burr was arrested for treason but later acquitted, and in 1878 Thomas Edison was granted a patent for his phonograph. NO BABIES PLEASE! In 1914 Four-year old Charlotte May Pierstorff was mailed by train from Grangeville, Idaho to her grandparents’ house 73 miles away in the most famous ‘child in the post’ instance. In 1960 Bil Keane’s ‘Family Circus’ cartoon strip debuted, and in 1973 ‘Tie a Yellow Ribbon round the Ole Oak Tree’ by Tony Orlando and Dawn was released. Harper Lee (wrote To Kill a Mocking Bird) died at age 89 in 2016, and Bob Hope married Dolores DeFina in 1934. Lee Marvin was born in 1924, and I have two ‘celebrity’ birthdays today. One is my cousin Holly (one of the Skunk Hollow Girls); love you Holly! The other is a friend from Kathy’s church, Karen Hayes Ursta. Karen just got married on Sunday, so we wish Karen a happy birthday and wonderful years of happy marriage ahead. Happy birthday dear girls!

TOMORROW February 27 is:

• Anosmia Awareness Day
• National Kahlua Day
• National Retro Day
• National Strawberry Day
• National Polar Bear Day

Looks like we might even have a few hours in a row without snow! Yea! Stay warm – God bless…

Once again my neighbor Al bailed me out – he walked across the street with his trusty snow blower and cleared off my driveway and my neighbor Karen’s driveway. I do so appreciate his help! The roads were clear as I drove over to Di’s and picked up things she had for me and my family. I got groceries at Aldi’s, then worked at the Greensburg store, then on to Jeannette. By the time I got home it was almost 3pm, so I grabbed a quick egg sandwich. I cleaned all the fresh veggies I bought and tomorrow I will roast them – according to Joanna Gaines’ recipe that was on her website a few years ago. They are so yummy! I spent about 45 minutes looking for a small rug for my entrance way to match the other rugs in my family room. I ordered it and I’ll see if it actually shows up!

I will share Micah’s message from Old Mahoning – Love Does. If you love, you take ACTION. It’s a command, and love is the greatest motivator. Three points of love: 1) Love puts meaning into service – your speaking ability, spiritual gifts, and sacrificial actions. 2) Love puts maturity into your character – I Cor 13:8 Love never fails; never is in past tense; demands a response. Authenticates your discipleship; love will flow out of your life. 3) Love puts motivation into life – Better choice in your priorities. SHARE love, finish well. Depend on God and let him lead you. He will direct your paths, and you will hear ‘well done’! You will understand – let love mature and direct you.

On this day in 1678 John Banyan’s Pilgrim’s Progress was published, and in 1885 Mark Twain published the Adventures of Huckleberry Finn in the US. Yoko Ono (Mrs. John Lennon) was born in 1933, John Travolta in 1954. Martin Luther died at age 62 in 1546, Michelangelo at age 88 in 1564, and outlaw Frank James at age 72 in 1915. And in 2001 Dale Earnhardt (NASCAR driver) died in a crash at the Daytona 500 at age 49.

TOMORROW February 19 is:

• National Chocolate Mint Day (Again – wrong day! I just ate a mini Mint/Dark Chocolate Kit-Kat!)
• National Lash Day
• National Vet Girls RISE Day
• National Caregivers Day – Thanks for all who are taking care of mom!!!
• Tartar Sauce Day –

Fish fry Fridays are back! I missed out last year, so I hope that this year I can find a place with a great sandwich! Maybe my old stomping grounds – Midway-St. Clair VFD!!! God bless –

One month from today is St. Patrick’s Day. And sometime in the night we are to start getting snow: 4 to 6 inches? That leaves tomorrow’s activities up in the air. Not going out on icy/snowy roads. I have all weekend to make up anything at work. Hopefully can still manage my weekend activities, because they should be fun!

At 11am I went to work and switched vehicles. It’s so different driving a big, empty van! Nate and Dave took the van and picked up my couch, which thankfully was is several pieces. They snapped together perfectly and the results are beautiful! A huge thanks to my moving duo! I took the van back and came home to finish cleaning. New couch, clean house – and then to Kath’s for a facetime visit with Mom, a yummy meal of taco salad and cookies, and our FAFF movie night. Tonight it was Sense and Sensibility.

I will share Greg’s message from Sunday: Love, Mercy, Inclusion. Basically, we have access to good moral teaching, but we don’t want it. Our culture has moral anorexia. We need to be a light, to shine brightly in the world’s darkness. You must model behavior that can be duplicated. What did Jesus value that can be caught? 1) For God so loved the world 2) that he gave his only son (mercy) 3) Whosoever believes in Him (inclusion). We should not be secluded in the church. Jesus offers his love and mercy to everyone – all are included! We need to seek and find those who are lost.

I was just informed that TODAY is the first day of Spring Training for the Pirates! So if you follow sports, THAT could be an exciting event! (To me, ‘exciting sports’ is an oxymoron!)

On this day in 1621 Myles Standish was elected as the first commander of the Plymouth Colony. In 1776 DECLINE AND FALL OF ROMAN EMPIRE was published (Edward Gibbon), and in 1801 the House of Representatives breaks electoral college tie by electing Thomas Jefferson as President over Aaron Burr. In 1969 Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash recorded an album that was never released, and in 1972 the sale of VW Beetles exceeded the Ford Model T. Thomas Watson (CEO of IBM) was born in 1874, and Michael Jordan and Larry the Cable Guy in 1963. Paris Hilton was born in 1981 and Geronimo (Apache Chief) died at age 79 in 1909.

TOMORROW February 18 is:

• National Battery Day
• National Crab Stuffed Flounder Day
• National Drink Wine Day

Be safe if you go out tomorrow – stay warm and inside if you can. Be kind and patient! God bless – – –

It was a slow and easy day – treadmill, breakfast, then Pinnacle/Greensburg. It was actually fun to be out and about. I came home and mixed up a recipe for Grama’s Sugar Cookies that Gail and Colleen each sent me. I will keep it in the fridge overnight and see what happens tomorrow… Think I’ll make shamrocks and freeze them. I need to make cinnamon rolls, too, as I think Kelly’s family is coming up next week for a day and the boys love them. I see Abie and Bimbo’s pizza in my future, as well.

I will share part 3 on Elijah by Rod from Martin’s Ferry. LIVING IN HIS SHADOW. God can fix anything in your life. God sent Elijah from the brook to find a widow who would take care of him. Elijah found her in the kitchen – doing day to day chores. He asked her to make him a cake of bread, promising that God would supply her needs if she supplied his. She did, and God did! There was always enough. Always remember to thank God! When the widow’s young son died, Elijah did 3 things: 1) He hid (again) and took the boy and was alone with God. 2) Elijah asked God to raise the child. No one had been raised from the dead up to that point, but Elijah had faith. 3) Everything rested in the hands of God. Elijah believed and we should too. It will all be made perfect in His time. The Lord HEARD and he HEALED the boy. See beyond the messenger/preacher, and see the Lord. We are in the shadow of God, and he’s at our side. We can ask for anything. Belief must turn into action – faith leads to action. Reach out in faith!

On this day in 1861 Abraham Lincoln stopped his train at Westfield on his way to Washington to thank 11-year old Grace Bedell in person for her advice to grow a beard to gain more votes. In 1964 the Beatles made their 2nd appearance on the Ed Sullivan show, and in 1968 Elvis received a gold record for HOW GREAT THOU ART. In 1969 Tammy Wynette married George Jones, and in 1982 Lee Majors divorced Farrah Fawcett. Vera-Ellen (Judy in White Christmas) was born in 1921, and today is Rebecca Sinclair’s birthday. She was my daughter’s College roommate and they were in each other’s weddings. I miss seeing her as she lives in the south now. Happy birthday, Becca!!!

TOMORROW February 17 is:

• National Random Acts of Kindness Day
• National Cabbage Day
• Ash Wednesday

In case you were wondering, as I was, the significance of Ash Wednesday: (Quote) “Ashes are an ominous sign, and we use them on Ash Wednesday to remind ourselves of our own impending deaths . Death may come sooner, or it may come later, but it will surely come.” I say we focus on Jesus’ death for us, because of love, and his resurrection to save us FROM death! It’s an interesting origin, though, and worth looking into. God bless….

President’s day – lots of ice, a little snow. I was pretty sure I wouldn’t get to work, but it warmed up and cleared off. I put the Valentine decorations away (there were only a shoe-box full or so), cleared off the driveway, and made it to work. Got home about 3pm, had soup and a piece of meatloaf, did laundry, and answered emails.

When I talked to Deb last night she mentioned a song that she really liked – TRUTH BE TOLD by Matthew West. It’s worth listening to, and it ties in with Jeremy Hazelton’s sermon a few weeks ago. It’s OK to not be OK.

Wednesday is slated for the couch pick-up day. I’m excited, and hope the weather co-operates!

In honor of President’s day, I will share four bits of information. 1) President Lincoln was raised in a strict Baptist family and was taught to have a deep devotion to God and to the Bible.

The story is told of an occasion when President Lincoln was given a Bible as a gift from some grateful freed slaves in 1864. This was his response:
“In regards to this great book, I have but to say, it is the best gift God has given to man. All the good the Savior gave to the world was communicated through this book. But for it, we could not know right from wrong. All things most desirable for man are to be portrayed in it.”  A. Lincoln (*credit for this goes to Gwen Wolfgang, taken from her daily Devotion on 2-15-2021)

2) GEORGE WASHINGTON: “Whereas it becomes us humbly to approach the throne of Almighty God, with gratitude and praise for the wonders which his goodness has wrought in conducting our fore-fathers to this western world…and above all, that he hath diffused the glorious light of the gospel, whereby, through the merits of our gracious Redeemer, we may become the heirs of his eternal glory.”

3) “Our Nation’s honored tradition of prayer has sustained us and strengthened our trust that God will continue to watch over and accompany us through the best of times and the darkest hours.”

TRUMP STATED THE IMPORTANCE OF DEPENDENCE ON GOD

Trump’s statement spoke to the power of God’s love to help families and communities move toward “abundance and peace.”

“We … acknowledge our dependence on God’s love to guide our families, communities, and our country away from harm and toward abundance and peace.”

4) Joe Biden recalled the Catholic hymn “On Eagle’s Wings,” a song he said was important to his family.

“It captures the faith that sustains me, which I believe sustains America. And I hope … I can provide some comfort and solace,” he told the crowd before reciting the hymn. “And he will raise you up on eagle’s wings, bear you on the breath of dawn. Make you to shine like the sun and hold you in the palm of his hand.”

Biden ended with this: “And now, together — on eagle’s wings — we embark on the work that God and history have called upon us to do.”

Let us thank God for the leaders that, each in their own way, has continued to lead our nation in His ways, even though the paths have been often steep and rough. And continue to pray for and encourage them as they lead us. And God Bless us – every one.

On this day in 1933 President Elect Franklin D Roosevelt survived an assassination attempt, and in 1936 construction of the VW Beetle was announced. In 1950 Walt Disney’s CINDERELLA premiered, and in 1965 John Lennon passed his driver’s test- one year before me! (I’m not sure why this is an important event…). Also in 1965 the Red Maple Leaf Flag became the official flag of Canada. In 1978 escaped mass murderer Ted Bundy was recaptured, and in 1992 Jeffrey Dahmer was found SANE (???) and guilty of killing 13 boys. Charles Lewis Tiffany (jeweler) was born in 1812, Susan B Anthony in 1820, and Cesar Romero in 1907. Nat King Cole died at age 49 from cancer in 1965.

TOMORROW February 16 is:

• National Almond Day
• National Do A Grouch a Favor Day
• Fat Tuesday – Day Before Ash Wednesday
• Paczki Day – Day Before Ash Wednesday
• Fastnacht Day – Day Before Ash Wednesday
• National Pancake Day – IHOP 

Be safe and careful if you have to go out – don’t go if you don’t have to! Remember your blessings, and America is one of them! God bless…

Everything was ice this morning – so I stuck with the treadmill. Spent the morning in the kitchen and made a big meatloaf and a large pot of cream of potato soup. After lunch I managed to get my couch. I have two weeks to pick it up, so I’m in the process of arranging a truck. Nate and Dave will help with the switch.

Since it’s a day of love and friendship, I thought I’d send Kudos to those who have held me up and kept me semi-sane over the last year or so. Some – a lot longer! (Sorry I don’t have photos of everyone!) First, of course, is my sister – without whom I would have no anchor. She keeps me on track, and rooted, but lets me fly, as well. Helps me stay focused on what is important, and strengthens my faith daily.

High school friends Gen and Diane – hard to believe I’ve known them both for so many years (Gen since 8th grade and Diane since 9th). Both have made me look outside myself, and appreciate everything that surrounds me, and to be thankful!

People I have met through work: First, the Smail PEEPS – April, Liz and Joelyn. My sounding boards, my support system, three ladies who mix it up! I miss them A LOT! Bill and Rick, Jen, several more… The Pinnacle guys validate my purpose, and help me to feel the value of what I do.

Writer friends – Linda, Nancy, Katy, Mary Ann, Judith, Barb – just to name a few. I know the minute I would need anything, they are there. Best critique group ever – in addition to steadfast friends!

Hanna’s Town group – Bruce, Lisa, Joanne, Pam, Claudia – and many more. I REALLY miss being out there, and all the programs that got cancelled or rearranged, and hoping they can be up and running soon!

Ron in Florida, who has stuck by me for over eleven years, and has seen the worst of me, the best of me, and the in-between! Miles do not separate those who care.

Bear from the Civic Center Theater. We’ve known each other since the early 1980’s. In fact, I’m helping to usher at the play next weekend.

Church friends – too numerous to mention, from the early days at Hempfield to now, when we can’t see each other as we like. Mae, Teresa, Mary, and Joni most especially, and my little kindergarten class. Probably by the time I get back to teaching them, the ones I will teach haven’t even been born yet! Heavens!

Family – Kelly’s family, Nate’s family, Kath and extended family, and my sweet Mama. Of course, the Violets (Deb/Kath) and the Skunk Hollow Girls (Gail, Connie, Karen, Holly, Beth, Colleen, Gwen, Karen V, Kath) – what would I do without you? AJ/UC – special anchors for me as my ship tosses! Cousins! Dear sweet cousins and their families!

And even those friends I seldom see these days, like Linda and Lynn and Lynne and Caroline…

My seven sermon guys: Paul, Mike/Kyle, Greg, Steve, Micah, Rod, Bram/Scott. They feed my soul!

I know once I post this I will think of a dozen more – but even if I didn’t mention you (like my two prayer partners, Ashly and Natalie) you are still occupying a little corner of my heart. Stay strong, stay safe, and stay close to God’s love – and share the love He gave you with everyone! Love you all!!!

I will share Mike’s message from Hempfield, as he inspired this post. Relationship boosters: Friendships. “Show me your friends and I’ll show you your future.” We need friends; true friends: 1) challenge us to be better people, not be complacent and accept less for ourselves than we should. 2) encourage us in the Lord; keep us honest and real 3) will tell you the truth in love and not just say what you want to hear. Value your true friends, and be a valuable friend to others. Friendships are truly a blessing from God!

On this day in 1349, 900 Jews were burned alive after being blamed for the spread of the Black Death (And we think there’s a strong reaction to COVID!) In 1849 James K Polk was the first serving President to have his photo taken, and in 1931 Dracula starring Bela Lugosi was released. The George Burns & Gracie Allen show debuted on the radio – I remember watching them on TV much later! In 1962 First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy conducted a White House tour on TV, and in 1967 RESPECT was recorded by Aretha Franklin and became Billboard song of the year. Jack Benny (another show I watched on TV!) was born in 1894. Dolly the Sheep died at age 6 in 2003 – She was the first mammal cloned from an adult cell. Meg Ryan and Dennis Quaid were married in 1991. And 31 years ago today Jim proposed to my Violet cousin Deb! Happy proposal anniversary – she told me the sweet story! I love to hear happily-ever-after stories!

TOMORROW February 15 is:

• National Gumdrop Day
• Singles Awareness Day (I’m very aware I’m single!!!)
• National Wisconsin Day
• Presidents Day

Happy Valentine’s Day, my sweet friends. May God richly bless your lives with health and laughter and delightful friends! God bless…

THERE ARE TWO POSTS TODAY! Make sure you read both…

As is my luck recently, I went to look at a recliner/couch — and they didn’t have any in stock, had no idea when (if!!) they would get any, and couldn’t offer price guarantee. Ugh. Well, I guess I’m just not supposed to spend money, so there’s nothing wrong with that!

Here is a recap of Kyle’s message from Hempfield last Sunday – Transform our Mind. What is our purpose for life? Why are we here? TO GLORIFY GOD and enjoy him forever. Only God knows why we exist and we need to seek Him and His will for us. Glorious means extra ordinary, has value; infinitely better, more than describable. We should GLORIFY God; call attention to God’s worth, bring God’s value to light; make God known. We were created to be advertisements for God, not to promote ourselves or our importance. Look at things through God’s POV. How do we incorporate glorifying God into healthy relationships? Seek the Lord every day; pray; read scripture; sing praise. As you bask in Him, you will be satisfied that he will give you what you need! And you can keep giving!

On this day in 1693 the College of William and Mary opened in Williamsburg VA, and in 1861 Abraham Lincoln was declared President of the United States. In 1866 Jesse James held up his first bank, stealing $15,000. In 1971 Vice President Spiro Agnew hit 2 tee shots (while golfing) into the crowd, injuring two people. GREASE opened on Broadway in 1972, and in 2000, the last original peanuts strip appeared in the newspapers, the day after Charles Schulz died. Bess Truman was born in 1885 (First Lady ), and Jerry Springer in 1944. And my cousin Brian’s wife, Kim Steiner, is celebrating a birthday today. Happy birthday Kim! Have a great day and many more!

February 14

• National Cream-Filled Chocolates Day
• National Ferris Wheel Day
• National Organ Donor Day
• Valentines Day

Hope you don’t have to run out last minute to get your Valentine’s Day treats! Have a lovely evening!!! God bless…