FACE PAINT FOR KIDS - THE EASY WAY

For a small batch, you will need:

1. 1 Tbsp. solid shortning
2. 2 Tbsps. corn starch
3. Food coloring

Mix the shortning and corn starch together. Separate and add a few drops of food coloring if you want, for instance, red clown noses.

~~~

Did you know that the older a man gets, the farther he had to walk to school as a boy?

~~~

TIL NEXT TIME

UPDATE...BESIDES TEA PARTIES

1. One way to tenderize meat: Use equal parts prepared tea (loose, tea bags or instant) and beef stock or broth as the liquid in POT ROAST,
2. It's not good to get a sunburn, but if you do and it is too big to justify the use of cool wet tea bags: try putting a jar of instant tea in a tepid bath to soothe the pain.
3. Make a paste of instant tea (or coffee) and water. Use to repair scratches in wood.
4. Use prepared instant tea to clean woodwork.
5. Make punch: Add 1/2 cup instant sweetened lemon tea to a large can of Hawiian Punch and a big bottle of ginger ale. Float an ice ring if you like.
6. GO TO A TEA PARTY!!!!!

Thought for today: A good listener is not only popular, but after awhile knows something.

TOUCHING THE SKY

I'm in Colorado, we've been to Kansas, now let's take a quick trip to Arizona:
`

TOUCHING THE SKY

`

An ancient saguaro, majestic and noble

Keeps solitary watch above the ruins,

Crumbling adobe walls,

Where once love endured like a fortress immobile

Sequestered here snug among nature's creations,

Sweet laughter in the halls.

`

A perpetual sentry, the saguaro has heard

Symphonies through the years, the desert's own legends

Of bravery and deeds

By people who've gone before, moving us onward

Through time and tears, as we turn our own harsh bends,

Long before life's storm recedes.

`

Imagine the stories the saguaro could tell

From a century of vigilance on rustic trails.

This guardian on high

Hears trains in the distance or an old mission bell

And blesses the land with arms stretched high - like sails

Touching the sky.

~~~

Copyright (c) Beverly J. Caligaris, 2008

DEAR LORD, SO FAR TODAY

Dear Lord,

`

So far today, I am doing all right.

`

I have not gossiped, lost my temper, been greedy, grumpy, nasty, selfish, or self-indulgent. I have not whined, complained, cursed or eaten any chocolate. I have charged nothing on my credit card.

`

But I will be getting out of bed in a minute, and I think that I will really need your help then.

`

~~Unknown

`

Watch for more craft projects for children!!!

Coming soon

THE PROMISED PLAY DOUGH RECIPE X2

FOR PLAY DOUGH

You will need:

• 1 c. flour
• 2 tsp. cream of tartar ( do not omit!!)
• 1 Tbsp. salad oil
• 1/2 c. salt
• 1/2 tsp.peppermint flavoring
• 1 c. water
• 1/2 tsp. food coloring

Mix all and cook over medium heat until it rolls into a ball. Cool. Knead until smooth. Store covered in refrigerator. Bonus: Washes out of kids clothes!

FOR PLAY CLAY

• 1-pound box baking soda
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1 and 1/4 cup water

Cook over medium heat for 10 to 15 minutes to about the consistency of mashed potatoes. Put on a plate and cover with a damp cloth while it cools. Use the dough like clay..roll out and cut shapes, or shape with fingers. Dry overnight or quick dry by pre-heating your oven to low, turn off and dry items on a cookie sheet for 10-15 minutes. Then get creative with acrylic or poster paints, and when dry you can coat with acrylic finish or even clear nail polish. Store unused clay in an air tight container in your refrigerator.

I JUST WATCHED ATLANTIS TOUCH DOWN. WHAT A THRILL!!!

BESIDES TEA PARTIES

Tea can also be used to:

1. Highlight red or brown hair - simply rinse with brewed tea for golden highlights.
2. Relieve sunburn pain by patting it with cool wet tea bags.
3. Liven house plants - water them weekly with weak brewed tea.
4. Soothe tired eyes - soak tea bags in cool water, press out excess moisture and place over your eyes for 10 - 20 minutes.
5. I read that the tannin in tea is a natural meat tenderizer. Has anyone out there tried it?

A beautiful quote for the weekend: "Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away."

Please click on comments and say HI.

THERE WILL BE TEA PARTIES

This beautiful Spring day all across the land holds promises of new beginnings for the Middlings. There had been little points of light, rumors of conflicts within the crystal palaces. The allegation that the Middlings had wanted to be subjective, controlled and cared for was being dispelled, at least among themselves. They were finding that they had done nothing to intentionally create this situation, but had instead been pushed into dependency. They were guilty of letting themselves be fooled. The rhetoric they heard had been stripped of any real meaning; no solutions to the issues were revealed, and no mention of a path TO, or a plan FOR reaching the lofty promises was ever apparent.

`

What was apparent was the achievement of administrative advancement, enrichment, and power by the Knowbs...the grand inhabitants of the crystal palaces...the caretakers. And so, firmly entrenched in their belief that the Middlings were easily placated, went ahead with their many costly projects, further secured by the knowledge that the sheer number of years it would take to pay for what had already been done would be to their advantage, the same scene spiraling into infinity. Not to mention that after several generations, the Middlings would come to accept their position, wouldn't they. Meanwhile, the Knowbs began to award small bonuses to selected Middlings, hoping for rifts to develop and soar into great distractions.

`

But plans were quietly being made by the Middlings, some a bit more vocal than others, but all toward the same end; not personal gain for a few and not revenge, but a return to the America once known by them all.

`

There will be sweet smelling candles, kittens and tea parties.

CRYSTAL GARDEN PROJECT

Many children will be out of school for the summer. This fun project will be educational as well. Encourage them to write down each days ingredients and make note of the changes they see. For each 'garden' :

1. Place a few pieces of porous material, such as coal, brick or broken cement in a glass bowl.
2. On the first day, pour on 2 tablespoons EACH of water, salt, and Mrs. Stewart's Bluing.
3. On the second day add only 2 tablespoons of salt.
4. On the third day , pour into the bottom of the bowl around the base that you have, 2 Tablespoons EACH of water, salt and the bluing. Then add some drops of color such as food coloring, ink or even mercurochrome to each piece.

By now, you should have a beautiful flower-like crystal growth. If however, conditions are not ideal, adding 2 tablespoons of household ammonia will help. Works best in dry air with good circulation.

To keep it growing, add water, salt and bluing from time to time.

WATCH FOR THE PLAY DOUGH RECIPE COMING SOON!!

I CAN HEAR THE GROANING NOW

Yes, it's that time again - The required weekly test:

1. Is Nancy Pelosi: a. a deliberate distraction b. a Democratic sacrifice or c. self-destructing?
2. If the worst happens, will she be able to retire and still live the lifestyle she has become accustomed to?
3. Will Joe Biden ever be heard from again?
4. How will we maneuver winter storms in our tiny little fuel efficient cars?
5. Why did my husband, who passed away 2 years ago, NOT receive a stimulus check?
6. Since we are receiving smaller stimulus checks, does that mean America's seniors are considered less capable of spending the money wisely?
7. Where is Harry Reid hiding lately? Oh, yeah........
8. Will the new health care system save lives AND money?
9. Does Rod Blagojevich think his TV coverage is being pre-empted by Drew Peterson?
10. Note: This is an easy one and EVERYONE gets a bonus point. Will you read Sarah Palin's book when it comes out?

And remember: Old age is like a lot of other things , to make a success of it , you need to start young.

Til the next time...

THE BIGGEST DECISION

The weight of the world is on us each day.

Decisions we make must pave the way,

Shall I wear red, or basic black?

Is my hair okay, should I pull it back?

~

Shall we have eggs to just keep it light

So we can enjoy a big dinner tonight?

Do I answer the phone, or just let it ring?

Shall I keep this old sweater, or give it a fling?

~

When the check we're awaiting arrives in the mail

Should we invest wisely, or head for the sale?

But the biggest decision that we now own

Is what to do with two dogs - and one bone!!

~

(c) Beverly J Caligaris

TEN YEARS IS A LONG TIME TO WAIT

The possibility of today's subject being relevant to current events is not easily detectable, by some at least. Bear with me.
~
History reveals recurrent trends, clothed in various 'new' systems for the people, led of course, by the government. In the end, the unsuspecting masses become merely financial products used to fund the massive, and sometimes corrupt, social programs...in effect, paying the government to disperse our own money back to us, but only after elaborate expenses. It is a necessary coincidence that many government jobs must be added and protected, creating ever more enormous costs and effectively reducing 'benefits'. Government doesn't pay, it costs!
~
When we have finally untangled the results of what our complacency, among other things, has caused, we must never again let our guard down. We Cannot Continue To Be Charmed By Politicians, We Must Elect Leaders.
~
Back in the forties the government created various denomination War Bond Stamp Albums. Basically, you bought the stamps, filled the album, and exchanged it at the post office for a Series E War Bond. Ten years later it could be redeemed for X number of dollars. I have one such album, partially filled. I wonder how many other children abandoned the war effort and inadvertently contributed to the government coffers? And, was that possibility considered in the first place? Even so, it is one of the lesser encroachments. I for one, was lured by the 10 cents to the candy store, as opposed to a big return on my money someday. After all, ten years is a long time for a child to wait.

RECIPE OF THE WEEK - EASY

HELLO WORLD!!! It's been a beautiful day here in Colorado, USA where I live. And melon season is approaching, so here is an easy dessert to try:
~

CANTALOUPE CROWNS

~

Cut a ripe cantaloupe into rings. Remove seeds. Scoop balls from the melon leaving about a half inch around the edges. Place rings on individual serving plates and pile small scoops of lemon or lime sherbet (or sorbet) and the melon balls into the centers. Garnish with mint leaves and a strawberry, if you like. Or, you might try honeydew melon rings with orange sherbet balls.
~
These would also be good for a weekend brunch with some deviled eggs and cheese sticks.
~
Wisdom is knowing what to do with what you know.
~
Till tomorrow...

LITTLE DID THEY KNOW

Remember "The Haunting of an American Dream"? The story goes on:
~
There was great unrest among the Middlings, for now they realized that as far back as 2009 and nearly unknown to them, the Knowbs had quietly GPS mapped all...every single home ...in America. The few who had discovered it at the time were told that it was a tool to be used only in taking the census. Little did they know.

The Knowbs had been very busy. Much had to be done in a short time. Some programs had been written and quietly begun before they came into complete power, allowing vast changes to be laid out, one on top of the other. Proceeding on the assumption that very few Middlings knew the substance of each project ahead of time, much could be put into practice before any realization took place of what was really happening . And that, Dear Reader, paved the way for the Knowbs to assume total control, power and great wealth.

Occasionally, they heard rumblings from the Middlings. Their solution was to stage "a Knowb falls on the sword" episodes.. an effort to appear fair. But little did they know.

A BIGGER FISH TO FRY

Who among us has not wished we could take back something we said? Is Wanda Sykes thinking just that after her bashing of Sarah Palin? I doubt it. I am not qualified nor am I interested in making judgements concerning that or the following incidents, but does free speech endorse outright bashing?
Janeane Garofola kind of makes me wonder if she's unintentionally playing the "choking game" because of whatever that is around her neck, and therefore is unable to think clearly. What, for godsake, does she base the Tea Party racist theory on? And the other accusations that she obviously failed to do any research on? The poor woman, she has no idea.
When feminist, Gloria Feldt was on the Factor recently, she called Laura Ingraham "the likes of you" (imagine a snide tone of voice) and said, among other things, that Carrie Prejean was "fair game". WHAT?? Fair game for what, to be lied about, dragged through mud and bashed? Who
would defend Miss Prejean? Apparently not Megan Daum, a columnist for LA Times, who said she couldn't defend her because, quite frankly, there are bigger fish to fry.
~
Freedom is the right to be wrong, not to DO wrong.

IN THE HOT KANSAS WIND

You might remember in "Never Pay More Than the Legal Price" that I mentioned some of my memories from the WWII era. Here is one more:

IN THE HOT KANSAS WIND

~

You will forget, we were told, if we put his pictures away.

I guess that could be so.

But today, as his face peers from a frame

So young, so long ago,

I remember how brave he seemed jumping over sparklers,

Things like that.

And then the war came and he went away.

We never saw him again.

~

Gramma and Mama and Aunt Wilma changed,

They didn't laugh as much any more.

Grampa and Daddy spoke softly, strange words

Like tail-gunner...death...Guam...

Oh, we still had homemade ice cream

On hot summer nights,

We still caught June bugs, trapped fireflies,

Suffered chigger bites...

But even now, Mama and Aunt Wilma visit him

In that lonely little cemetery with pine trees all around

And tall grass, billowing in the hot Kansas wind.

~~~

Copyright (c) Beverly J. Caligaris 1996,2009 All rights reserved

`

Since that writing Gramma, Grampa and Aunt Wilma have passed. Mama sits in a wheel chair in the nursing home staring out the window. And Daddy walks from his assisted living apartment and sits in the room with her all day...every day...

A MOTHER'S DAY LOOK AT OUR CHILDREN

INNOCENCE SHOWING

`

The child is a lovely kaleidoscope

Ever changing tomorrow's dream

Face down in the grass

Perusing an ant

Or over, wandering through clouds, perhaps

Not even wondering,

Just watching the ponies that run there.

The kaleidoscope alters the image

Reflected there in the mirrors

Of innocent childhood,

While daring to climb

Or follow paths the kitten has chosen

Not even worried,

Discovering miracles as they go.

While the pendulum swings ever slowly

And constantly changes the dreams

Transforming colors

Into black and white

Or maybe artists' palettes they have seen

Not even knowing,

The lovely kaleidoscope there showing.

~~~

Copyright Beverly J. Caligaris 1997,2009

All rights reserved

Happy Mother's Day

THIS IS A REQUIRED WEEKLY TEST

1. Are received political campaign contributions income taxable?
2. Are received contributions to political victory celebrations income taxable?
3. Are the above contributions by the payers income tax deductible?
4. If the answers to the first two questions are yes, could we pay off the inherited deficit?
5. Why do we deserve Nancy Pelosi?
6. Is there a government entity without corruption?
7. How were our founding fathers able to govern when there were no poli-sci classes?
8. Would the food chain be adversely impacted if scientists (not government) were to annilate every mosquito world wide?
9. Circle the one you would vote for: a. Knowb, b. Middling, c. Other
10. Is global warming: a. a distraction tactic or b. a means to enrich Al Gore?
11. Do loudly touted income tax cuts really spawn "hidden taxes"?

How beautiful a day can be when kindness touches it.

RECIPE OF THE WEEK - LITE

DIET RITE

`

Low fat turkey

Low fat cheese

Low cal mayo

If you please!

Trim the bun

Slice pickles thin

So I can trim

The shape I'm in!

`

(c) Bev Caligaris

`

Here's an easy and versatile concoction: Pass it around as a side dish; serve on lettuce lined salad plates with small carrot and celery sticks; or pile in individual dessert bowls and top with a fresh strawberry. Even guys like it, so I call it Super Bowl Salad:

• 2 lbs. light small curd cottage cheese
• 1 6oz. box orange flavor sugar-free gelatin, dry
• 1 can mandarin oranges, drained
• 1 can crushed pineapple, drained
• 1 lg. carton lite whipped topping

Mix together and chill.

SHADES OF GREEN

SHADES OF GREEN

`

One golden sunlit morning

Flitting about the flowers

Came bands of silver angels

Pygmean, yet rich with powers

To cloy the soul of woman,

Cast a spell on all mankind

With blossoms tenderly blushed,

Arrangements of gems designed

In colors magnifcient, bearing

Varigations of every hue,

While innocents drink the sweet perfume

And stop to pick a few.

Mere mortals might never know

The myriad shades of green

Shown there in the dew kissed garden

Where the silver cherubs were seen

Busy painting the fragile petals

And inviting the butterflies in,

Addendum to all the splendor

Where artisan angels have been.

~~~

copyright (c) Beverly J. Caligaris 2008

All rights reserved

NEVER PAY MORE THAN THE LEGAL PRICE

Recently, an item from my past was returned, a booklet called "War Ration Book Four". It was issued to me but clearly warns that it "remains the property of the United States Government". Also, "it is a criminal offense to violate rationing regulations". It was issued by the United States Office of Price Administration, and on the back it states, "Never buy rationed goods without ration stamps. Never pay more than the legal price". And, "Important: When you have used your ration, salvage the Tin Cans and Waste Fats. They are needed to make munitions for our fighting men. Cooperate with your local Salvage Committee." The booklet was printed by the U.S. Government printing Office: 1943.

Inside are the pages of stamps. Some are marked "Coffee", many simply "Spare" and others of different colors and symbols bearing a single number and a single letter. (I need to research the indications here.) I remember that sugar was also rationed and, of course, gasoline. Other than that, the memories are of a more personal nature: bare feet sinking in the hot sand of country roads, being scared, but riding the huge work horse anyway, running to meet Grandpa coming out of the barn with buckets of milk, cool water hand pumped from a well, wheat harvests, and outhouses ...to mention a few. Uh oh, I think I just committed a "divert your attention" tactic.

The point is, if we complete the circle and arrive back at the same situation, we won't have the hassle of the booklets and tiny stamps to worry about! It will all be handled at a central location by, yes more government workers. In theory, each citizen will be well documented, then issued X number of available " units" for each product. This information will be programed into all retail oulets and your receipts will indicate remaining "units" for each product purchased. Careful!, if you spend all of your "units" before the allotted time, how will you feed your family?

No, that couldn't happen....Could it?

A SPRINKLING OF GOLD DUST

A SPRINKLING OF GOLD DUST

`

My troubles seem dim
Far away and unreal
When standing alone
At the top of a hill
With music of angels
Soprano and clear
Drifting on moonlight
Proclaiming them near.
My questions, unanswered
Fade into night
Washed free in the gleaming
Silvery light.
A ribbon of water
Shimmers below
While the stars far above
Smile down and blow
A sprinkling of gold dust
All over the world
As angels stand watch
Golden wings unfurled.

(c) 1996, 2009 Beverly J. Caligaris, All rights reserved.

Do you believe in angels?

THIS UNRELENTING VISION

In an aerial view of the country there appear to be many thousands of soiled sheep, constantly shifting creating an almost undulating effect over the hills and valleys. But, from the land the beings, called Middlings, are moving about mostly to and from their assigned jobs in order to pay for living in the homes they no longer own and for the centrally controlled utilities. The Middlings are allowed to handle very little cash as their wages are highly taxed, the price they pay for being cared for.

Can you see it? Can you see how, at first it all seemed the same? How had it happened, this decline into a classless society?

Meanwhile, the Knowbs are more vigilant. There are rumblings, you know. So, they stand before the Middlings and speak eloquently with the lies dripping easily from their lips.

They think we believe it.

Two of my Favorite Quotes

Thomas Jefferson said: When people fear the government, that is tyranny. When government fears the people, that is liberty.

Shakespeare wrote :"Be not afraid of greatness: some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them."

THERE WILL BE RUMBLING

Note: This is a follow-up to THE HAUNTING OF AN AMERICAN DREAM

Some evenings the Middlings would gather to reminisce with the old timers. Many recalled what America was like before the insidious perversion of truth, streams of broken promises, the rationalization of huge debt and strenuous regulations that curbed the Dream. Some recounted the days when entrepenuers were - not simply allowed - but encouraged to launch businesses. Bank loans and other help were available and accessible. They were not required to give up their hard earned profits solely to fund entitlements. And if they failed, they could start over. People chose their jobs, homes, cars, colleges...America was rich with ideas and enthusiasm...before the Knowbs.

Under the guise of change, the Knowbs had noisily embedded themseles in all political processes. The were adept at using a sort of sneering "Oh, you poor ignorant idiot" attitude when addressing the Middlings. You know the stance. The Knowbs were entitled to lush parties and celebrations of their achievements, while the Middlings dug deeper and deeper to fund it all. At some point, even scams against the people ceased to be prosecuted. Negotiations were held to divert cash to the money hungry Knowbs, even those with the underwear of other countries under their beds.