Paul's Corner

Hello Paul,

My name is Amy. I'm come from Hong Kong. This is my first time to post message. You are a super artist and "Strictly Ballroom" is my favour movie. Unfortunately, I can't find another movies in Hong Kong.

Hope the following recipe can help you.


Biersuppe
Beer soup



Ingredients:

1 1/2 tbsp. (heaping) flour
3 1/2 tbsp. butter
1 liter Beer
1 sm piece of cinnamon
sugar to taste
2 Egg yolks
1/2 c. plus 1/2 tbsp. milk
Toasted white (French) bread
Directions:

Open the beer and let it get flat; at least two hours. Brown the flour in the butter, then add beer. Add cinnamon and sugar and bring to a boil. Whisk together the egg yolk and milk and stir into the hot (but no longer boiling) beer. Strain, and serve with toasted slices of bread.

# of Servings: 4

With Love,

Amy

Amy thank you for taking the time to post the recipe and for posting for the first time. Welcome to you.

I should say that I am looking for a recipe that would also include cheese and sourkraut. I am about to go into the kitchen right now and make one up and see how it turns out. I will let you know but still feel free to post a recipe if you have one!

I dont mean to blow my own horn but I am going to!

Just made my beer soup and took it down to the chef manager at the hotel where I have my beer dinners. He Loved it. Andrea loved it and a friend of her's (Andrea) who popped in to pick her daughter up from her after school playtime with my daughter had a taste and loved it!

I liked it and after having it for dinner tonight will know better but it would seem to be a hit. I will post it to my recipe corner in the next few days so any one that may want to give it a go can.

so the long and the short of it is I no longer need a recipe but I am always happy to get some so as I can compare, learn and evolve as I go.

Good Morning Chef Paul,

Here is a fast reciepe for Warm Beer Soup that we like to have during the long winter months:

1 cup beer
1 cup milk
1 egg yolk
1 tablespoon sugar
2 whole cloves
1 pinch cinnamon or to taste
1/2 teaspoon lemon rind
1 tablespoon flour
1 teaspoon salt

Bring beer to a boil mixed with sugar, cinnamon, cloves and lemon.

In a seperate pot, bring milk to a boil mixed with flour and salt and add this to the beer mixture.

Add egg yolk.

Stir till blended and enjoy!

Looking forward to swapping reciepes with everyone...

Be well.

Oh please don't talk about food. I'm barely keeping toast down. Wish it was the flu, but it's only the flu if it came in the form of about 5 shots of brandy and glasses of wine on top of it. Had WAY too much fun!!! and have been paying for it for two days.

Paul glad you're excited about the recipe, and maybe I will be in a few days. Hope all is well and that you're second show goes/went well.

Take care all I'm off to struggle through work!

Jill

Checking in...

Well, you have me stumped! German beer soup...hmm. I'm sure you're more of an authority on this subject and you definetly know what goes well with what when it comes to cooking with beer. Congrads on you latest creation hopefully it will be posted in the recipe corner for all of us to try.

Maybe one day there will be an awsome recipe book in the making to learn the art of cooking with beer. Hint, hint :)

take care all,

Paul, can't help you with a beer soup recipe of/off (???, darn English spelling) the top of my head, since I've never made beer soup, had it though, I think. I'll consult my German cooking friends and my cookbooks and if there's something particularly interesting in them, I'll post it for you.

Glad you came up with something on your own and that is is such a hit!

I attempted to re-create my Mum's white asparagus soup last night and it's unfortunately not quite right, for one too much nutmeg, and then there's something missing, I just don't know what that is. Will have to consult with Mum about it or watch her make it next time I'm home AND convince Mum to write down her/our family recipes. I also want her leg of lamb roast recipe, but if someone else has one, I'd love to have it.

Love Evelyn

Paul,

Here are some beer soup recipes I found online:

Beer Cheese Soup

Serves/Makes:
reset servings
Ready in: Difficulty: 3
(1=easiest :: hardest=5)

1/2 cup butter
1 medium onion, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
1/2 cup flour
4 cups chicken broth
12 ounces beer
1 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, grated
1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
Salt and white pepper to taste
Melt the butter in a heavy saucepan. Stir in the onion and celery and cook until just soft. Sprinkle the flour in and cook, stirring for 3-4 minutes. Slowly whisk in first the broth, then the beer.

Bring to a boil. Reduce heat. Slowly whisk in the cheese. Add the mustard. Remove from the heat; serve immediately.

Courtesy of -- http://www.cdkitchen.com/

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Beer Cheese Soup (version 2)

Serves/Makes:
reset servings
Ready in: 30-60 minutes
Difficulty: 3
(1=easiest :: hardest=5)

3 tablespoons minced onion
3 tablespoons grated carrot
3 tablespoons butter
4 cups chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
1/2 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 cup milk
1/4 pound grated Cheddar cheese; PLUS
1 cup grated Cheddar cheese
1 cup beer
Cook onion and carrot in butter for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add chicken broth, mustard and paprika. Cook over low heat for 15 minutes. Mix corn starch and milk and stir into soup. Cool another 5 minutes, then add cheese and beer. Stir over low heat until cheese melts then serve with sprinkling of parsley.

Should serve 6, but most come back for more - so be prepared. And have cold beer (430 F. is the right serving temperature), readily available to blend most perfectly with the dish.

Courtesy of -- http://www.cdkitchen.com

---------------------------------------------------------

Beer Cheese Soup (version 3)

Serves/Makes:
reset servings
Ready in: 30-60 minutes
Difficulty: 3
(1=easiest :: hardest=5)

3 tablespoons Butter
1 large Onion -- chopped
1 Celery stalk -- chopped
2 medium Carrots -- chopped
3 tablespoons All purpose flour
2 cups Beef broth
2 medium Potatoes -- peeled and cubed
1 Bottle dark beer
1 cup Whipping cream
dash Grated nutmeg to taste
1/8 teaspoon Cayenne (red) pepper
salt to taste
3 cups Shredded SHARP cheddar Cheese
1/2 cup Additional shredded cheese To garnish
Melt butter in a large pot. Add onion, celery and carrots; cook until soft, about five minutes. Stir in flour; cook one minute, stirring often. Stir in broth. Add potatoes and beer. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer twenty minutes or until potatoes are soft.

Transfer vegetables to a food processor or blender. Process until pureed. Return to pan; add cream, nutmeg, cayenne and salt to taste. Reheat to a simmer. Add cheese, 1/2 cup at a time and stir until melted. DO NOT BOIL. Serve hot, garnish with addition shredded cheese.

Courtesy of -- http://www.cdkitchen.com

------------------------------------------

Bacon 'n Cheddar Beer Soup

Serves/Makes:
reset servings
Ready in: 30-60 minutes
Difficulty: 3
(1=easiest :: hardest=5)

6 ounces Vegetable oil
1 1/2 pound Onions; coarsely chopped
1 1/4 pound Potatoes; diced
1 pound Carrots; diced
1 pound Celery; sliced
1 can Chef-Mate Bacon 'n Cheddar -Cheese Sauce (#10 can)
2 cups Beer
1 quart Chicken stock
1 1/4 pound Mixed Vegetables; frozen
1/2 teaspoon Paprika
1/2 teaspoon White Pepper
1/4 teaspoon Liquid Smoke flavor
2 tablespoons Parsley; chopped
Place vegetable oil in large stockpot. Add onion, potatoes, carrots and celery; saute 25-30 minutes or until vegetables are cooked. Add remaining ingredients. Combine thoroughly. Simmer 20 minutes over low heat, stirring occasionally. Serve hot.

Serving size: 1 cup

Courtesy of -- http://www.cdkitchen.com

--------------------------------------------------

Beer Cheese Vegetable Soup

Serves/Makes:
reset servings
Ready in: 1-2 hrs
Difficulty: 3
(1=easiest :: hardest=5)

12 cloves garlic -- unpeeled
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 dried red chilie -- crumbled
1 cup leeks -- thinly sliced
2 large carrots -- cleaned & sliced
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup corn kernels
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 cup flour
5 cups milk -- heated
1 cup dark beer
3 cups sharp Cheddar cheese -- shredded
salt and white pepper -- to taste
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
chopped chives -- for garnish
One hour prior to cooking: prepare the garlic. Place cloves in a single layer on a cast-iron griddle or skillet over medium-high heat. Roast cloves, turning often, until brown spots appear on skins and flesh is somewhat soft when lightly pressed, about 10-15 minutes. When garlic has cooled, carefully remove skins. Mince flesh and set aside.

Heat oil and chile in a large nonreactive saucepan. Add leeks and carrots; cover tightly and braise over very low heat for 10 minutes, or until carrots begin to soften. Add minced garlic, broccoli, corn kernels, and thyme. Stir well, cover, and cook over very low heat for 5 minutes. Sprinkle evenly with flour, stir, and cook for 2 minutes more, stirring constantly. Slowly add hot milk, stirring gently until milk is hot and mixture has thickened.

Stir in beer. Cook over low heat until carrots and broccoli are tender, 10-15 minutes. Add cheese and stir until it melts. Season with salt, pepper and Worcestershire sauce. Serve in heated bowls and sprinkle with fresh herbs.

Courtesy of -- http://www.cdkitchen.com

-----------------------------------------------

Warm Beer Soup

Yield: 2 servings

Ingredients
1 c Beer
1 c Milk
1 ea Egg yolk
1 T Sugar
2 ea Cloves, whole
1 pn Cinnamon
1/2 t Lemon rind
1 T Flour
1 ds Salt

Instructions 1. Bring beer to boiling, mixed with cloves, sugar, cinnamon, and lemon rind. Brink milk to boiling point, mixed with flour, salt and add this to beer. Add egg yolk. A nourishing soup!

Courtesy of -- http://www.ichef.com/

----------------------------------------

Nertha

Dear Paul,

I just found another recipe for your reference:

Beer Cheese Soup II

INGREDIENTS:
1 tablespoon margarine
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 (12 fluid ounce) can or bottle light beer
1 (14.5 ounce) can chicken broth
3 tablespoons cornstarch
2 cups half-and-half
2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

DIRECTIONS:
Melt the butter or margarine in a 4 1/2 quart soup pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic and Worcestershire sauce and stir well. Add the beer and raise the heat to high and boil for 3 minutes to evaporate the alcohol. Add the chicken broth and bring the soup back to a boil. Lower the heat to medium-low and simmer.
Combine the cornstarch with 3 tablespoons water and stir until smooth. Set aside.
Add the half-and-half and shredded cheese to the soup. Stir constantly until the cheese melts. Then stir in the cornstarch mixture. Stir constantly until the soup is thick, about 2 minutes. Serve garnished with bacon bits.

Have a sunny day!

Amy

I've tried just one of these recipes (hic) and was tasting as I went along, (hic) (hic) and now anyone can have his way with me...(hic)(hic) (hurrah!)

Gran Mil

Grandma Mil, your hilarious, in fact I love reading all your posts when I can actually get to the computer..

As for Beer Soup sorry Paul never heard of it till now, but it sounds interesting..

oh and Tom is sexy and sensual huh??? I think all the contestants of Dancing with the stars did well tonight. Pity about the flu everyone has.

Hello all!!
Paul,
I wish i could help you but i have no idea what beer soup is! You actually put beer in soup? never heard of it. Sorry I cant help you there. If you need help with spanish food then I can help you (my family is cuban).
How is everyone otherwise?
-till next time-
lizee
(you actually but beer in soup?)

Paul,
Sorry, no recipes for beer soup, but here is this week's critique on "Dancing with the Stars".
I only got to watch this at around 11:00pm last night. It certainly was a good wind-down from a hectic 5 days of work away and a three hour drive home.
I slept quite happily afterwards.

Here goes.

This show is definitely improving. Mind you, I thought that it was damn good to start with.
Let's say that it's going from strength to strength.

I can't really find any aspect of this show that I don't like. That is rare.
Let's see:
Firstly, it's real (as opposed to that "reality" crap),
It's Australian and has a distinct flavour thereof,
It's light-hearted, exciting, thoroughly entertaining, and it shows people having a go at something which is plainly positive fun.

The show is noticably running more smoothly. Everything appears to be seamless in it's continuity.
It's also very polished, extremely relaxed, energetic and totally accessible.
The compere , Daryl Somers is an accomplished veteran of live TV. The judges are all credible and there is plenty of diversity in their personalities and focus to make it interesting and often exciting.

Paul's part, and I suspect that this is driven by Paul just being Paul, has the effect of lightening up the show when the other judges are a little too concerned with technique or abiding by the rules of "Dancesport".
Personally, I don't think that the general public give a rat's wazza about the rules of Dancesport or Ballroom. Neither apparently does Paul. He encourages and congratulates the participants based on the overall performance and impact of their routine and recognises the "WOW factor" when it's there.
I believe that Paul judges with his senses, his heart and his passionate mind. And apparently, the audience is in full support of him.
I really think that this is what people feel and want to see. It's refreshing and extremely uplifting.
Again, this reveals the fun part of his own personality. I think it's a genuine crowd pleaser and rightly so.

Good work mate.

This week's score out of 10.
Hmmm.....let me see. Overall, I will award you a 9. That gives me some room to move.

Cheers to all,
Peter

G'day to all PC'ers. I hope that you enjoy this week's review of "Dancing".

Mary, How are you?
I think that you and Michelle may understand this. It's nothing special, it's also nothing that I can really put to words that will make any real sense, but here it is.

I was driving home last night, cruising along the faily long freeway. The night was dark and I was somewhat isolated, when on the radio came Elton John's "Tiny Dancer".
I was very moved. It touched a chord deep down inside. It was very special. A strong point of introspection, I suspect. Emotions peeled open like a flower and joy followed.
Sometimes it's just the simple things.
That's all.

Peter

Paul, this is great! There is some underlying feeling of fairness here that you are getting the chance to present yourself like this. I wish you continued success with the show. Well done!!

Peter, I am really well. Thanks. I seem to have reached a place over the last while where there are wonderful moments of peace and calm in among all the normal comings and goings. I'm just making the most of them while they last!
The song....Now this IS a bit spooky. I have an old beat-up tape cassette of Elton John's Greatest Hits that has travelled with me through time and all kinds of experiences. The tape is grey with yellow paper for the names of the songs. Very battered at this stage. Case long since gone. My absolute favourite song on the tape has always been Tiny Dancer. This probably sounds silly, but every time I hear it, I feel like time is suspended and all I can think about is how beautifully exquisite it is. It is one of those songs that for me goes in a complete circle, without any edges. I haven't played the tape in ages but a few weeks ago, it came on the radio unexpectedly when I was driving home from work. I was carried away. What can I say? It does make sense. I do understand. Completely. Thanks for triggering the lovely memories.
I hope that the flow of the last few days continues for you and that you get the chance to unwind (even a little) after such a busy run of things. Thanks for another wonderful insight into Paul's performance. You really do him justice. Take good care Peter.

Love to all,
Mary

PS Where did you get the 'rat's wazza'???

I have got to find an opportunity to introduce that one into some conversation at the earliest opportunity!

Mary

Mary, Re "rat's wazza":

Some things just are!
(Well, for me at least).

Peter

Peter, I agree!
Enjoy the rest of your day. Mine is just ending.

Mary

"rat's wazza"...well add that to my list of favorite Aussie sayings..and it came from one of my favorite Aussies!

Hello everyone!!
Ok, from what I have been reading im assuming Paul is in a show or somthing and if im wrong I will feel completely stupid. Can somone please fill me in? Oh and one more question for the night (night or day wherever you are)>
WHAT is Beer Soup!??!?!
My mom completely ignored me when I asked her what it was. Is it actual beer in soup?....Im feeling completely dimwitted right now.Once again someone pleeaaaasee fill me in.
Its some-what late for me and I have a game tomorrow so...........GOODNIGHT everyone sleep tight-sleep with the angels!
love always
lizee
--(Hi to Peter Mary and Inn-no idea who you are but hello and goodnight)

Hello everyone!!
Ok, from what I have been reading im assuming Paul is in a show or somthing and if im wrong I will feel completely stupid. Can somone please fill me in? Oh and one more question for the night (night or day wherever you are)>
WHAT is Beer Soup!??!?!
My mom completely ignored me when I asked her what it was. Is it actual beer in soup?....Im feeling completely dimwitted right now.Once again someone pleeaaaasee fill me in.
Its some-what late for me and I have a game tomorrow so...........GOODNIGHT everyone sleep tight-sleep with the angels!
love always
lizee
--(Hi to Peter Mary and Inn-no idea who you are but hello and goodnight)

Hello everyone!!
Ok, from what I have been reading im assuming Paul is in a show or somthing and if im wrong I will feel completely stupid. Can somone please fill me in? Oh and one more question for the night (night or day wherever you are)>
WHAT is Beer Soup!??!?!
My mom completely ignored me when I asked her what it was. Is it actual beer in soup?....Im feeling completely dimwitted right now.Once again someone pleeaaaasee fill me in.
Its some-what late for me and I have a game tomorrow so...........GOODNIGHT everyone sleep tight-sleep with the angels!
love always
lizee
--(Hi to Peter Mary and Inn-no idea who you are but hello and goodnight)

Hi Lizzie,

About your questions:
Yes, Paul is presently one of the judges on a TV show in Australia called "Dancing with the Stars." Peter is one of our Aussie friends (he likes to wear a purple suit, which we refer to as his "purle suit") and he has been kind enough to describe for us what the program is about and Paul's participation in it. :-)

Glad to have another Hispanic on board. :-) ¡Bienvenida al Rincón de Pablo! (Welcome to Paul's Corner).

About the beer soup... this is the first time I heard of it, too, but you are correct in assuming that it is a soup that has beer in it. Paul is an expert on beer (knows how to make it, too) and plans to open his own brewery and a pub one of these days. :-)

Hugs,
Nertha

hi!!
THANKS Nertha for the Fill in!
Honestly out of all my hispanic backround I cannot speak spanish to save my life(just a pinch I can speak), yes I understand it but my mom put me in a private school when I was two and they spoke english and thats what I learned.
So you are on a show!Thats cool......if it only showed in Florida then i would have a better idea what your talking aboout. Oh, I think thats cool about starting your own pub.
Hopfully Pauls beer taste better than the beer here.My mom let me have one sip and......ugghh
it was distugusting!

Good morning to all.

What a beautiful sunrise I saw coming in on the way to work. I have a long, mostly solitary drive as you do Peter, and you are absolutely right about what beauty that quiet time can bring.

Thank you for the critique on "Dancing". I am looking forward each week now to find out what you thought of it. Thank you again for sharing.

Maybe Paul will give us his take on how he feels about it?

Hello to Mary, Inn, Nertha and Lizzie. Lizzie, are you a newbie? If so, welcome. Big wave to everyone else.

Take care and be well.

Oh look, another way to use flat beer rather than just as a rinse on my hair!

Hi everyone - SO sorry I've been in absentia for eons. It's just the way the world works. I've "calmed" my commitments a bit, and am trying to stay focussed on What's Important. It ain't easy! So may aquaintances pulling you this way and that. But enough of that.

Two (maybe) things:
Paul - GROOVY on the judging gig! And MORE awesome about the beer soup, as I see it as the "teaser" into your true love of cuisine (beer cuisine, of course!). Good for you for having the guts to go forth and present it. You da bomb. But, you already know that.

Miss everyone huge amounts. Had to buckle down and not spend so much time elsewhere on the computer when I was here, but I've discovered "moderation" (gasp!) so I'll be swinging in more.

Oh, Peter! (Hi honey! Kisskiss) The Elton John song--hahahahahaha, oh HAHAHAHAHAHA...this is so funny that it's not really. I was listening to the radio, peeling pears at the sink for a pie (Saturday), and I found myself staring out the window at nothing--felt spell-bound as I heard the words for the FIRST TIME it seemed, of a song I must've heard a hundred times in my life...so soul-touching and, well, just damned well full of "meaning". Ready for this? IT WAS THE SAME SONG!!! Elton John's "Tiny Dancer".

SO, Universe, what ELSE do you have to say?

I'm listening...
Hugs,
Dhi

Hello!!!
Right now im using the school computer school is going to be over in about two minutes actually now so ill finish when I get home
love always
lizee

Hello again!!!
Im still at school-Im at chorus rehearsal and im not leaving for another hour.
To Sally C., yes im a "newbie" and thanks for the welcome!School was lovely today once again yet I cant wait to get home. I am very proud of little sister (she is four). She moved on to the second level in her dance class. She is becoming a comlpete girly-girl. She worrys about how her nails are painted and she puts up a fit when her mom(my dads wife) makes her wear sneakers when she goes to the park.And she owns just about every princess-looking dress you could find.
Honestly if it was my choice I would of put her in sports or karate (sorry paul)but, shes happy.
And shes a music freak just like my twin sisters and I. And she looks so cute in her recitle outfit.
Anyway......hhhhhmmmmmmmm OOHH today in my english class we are reading Sherlock Holmes!
Quite the thrillers choice, I would say.
well I think I have nothing else to say.....................................................yep nothing.
Goodbye for now
love
lizee

Dhi, good to see you're back! You've been missed!

Lizee, please contact me. I have to ask you a question!

Shalom and Love,

Gran Mil

To Grandma Mill
Wher I am its 3:45 pm im going to be here for at least another half an hour so ask away.
liz

Grandma Mil
Ill be home in 15 min
lizee

Dhi, loved reading your post as always. It's great to hear your voice again!

Special hello and love to Michelle - far away but very close.

Evelyn, hope the pressure has lifted for you. You're in my thoughts.

Nertha, I hope you are feeling better.

Hi back to Sally, Kelly and Lizzie (and welcome!).

Just realised today that I have been coming here for a year now. Looking back, it marked a shift in my journey - a good one. I feel so much more grounded in myself now and truly believe that I am facing in a better direction. It feels good to be able to say that after a long time of feeling stuck! Thanks to Paul and to each of my friends here - old and new - for all the times your thoughts, wisdom and sharing of your journeys affected me and helped me to make that change. Love to you all.

Mary

Hey, Lizee, if you're home now, I just want to know where you live in Florida...north, south, east or west.

Ellie and I live north of Ft. Lauderdale, and west of Pompano Beach.

Shalom and Love,

Gran Mil

Oh my gosh you live so close!I live in west palm beach!!!About half an hour away! oh thats soo cool.
till next time
lizee
(thats sooo cooooool)

Peter, you won't believe this but I made a compilation CD early this weekend and guess what was on it? Yep, I was listening to Tiny Dancer right along with you! That song just does it for me, not sure whether it's the melody, the lyrics, or both. I love the way it makes me feel.

Isn't it funny how we're able to draw so much from a song, a "simple thing" as you say. Those simple things are the key to our soul's greatest joy, I believe. We always think it will be the big moments in life, but they usually end up being more about anticipation than reality. No...it's in the little things.

What's this cosmic connection we have brewing here? I'm diggin' it whatever it is. We should explore this further, find out what we know, when we knew it, etc. Is that too cryptic?:)

Hey Dhi! Is it getting cold enough to turn the red light on yet?

Hi Evelyn, thanks for the birthday wishes! Forgot to mention that earlier. How goes it in Mankato?

Mary, I can't believe it's been a year! It feels like I've known you forever;) I'm so glad you found PC and let us all get to know you. We're the lucky ones!

Hello Mil! Sounds like you've found another Florida friend.

Welcome, Lizzie!

Hello Nertha, Inn, and Sally C.! Hugs to all of you.

Love to Paul, the guy who brought us together! Do you realize what a cool thing that is? Thank you.

Peace,
Michelle

Thanks for the welcome Michelle!
Hows everyone?
--lizee--

Hi everyone,
I have a request............My mom and her boyfriend arent doing to well. My mom just left the house crying after getting off the phone with him so please pray for her(them).
thanks
lizee

As I am not a beer drinker I have not recipes for it.

If any of you have been watching the news lately, Mount St. Helens has come awake. If you are interested in looking at pictures of this event, you can go to Mount St. Helens Volcanocam and it will get you to pictures that the USGS is posting.

After loosing my two pekes, in September, I now have a new dog named Cricket. She is a Peke-a-Pom. I found her through "Animal Talk Rescue" which is a local radio program that talks about dogs and cats they have up for adoption.

I have been busy with Choir rehearsal. We are gearing up for out annual Christmas Musical, which runs for three nights in December.

Take care & love to all,
Marge

Dhi, Do you think it was the pears that brought this on? They have that effect on me too! Seriously, so nice to hear from you.
I have a feeling that there is some kind of nexus making itself apparent. Perhaps we should not be surprised at these things.

When I heard that song whilst driving, it seemed that time somehow stretched out. The song seemed to last for a very, very long time. It was almost as if there were more verses.

I have no idea of the meaning of this. It could just mean that there is a connection of some kind.

Michelle, I won't bother to call this a coincidence. I just wouldn't believe it.
You're spot on re the importance of the "little things". How is is that a seemingly normal or routine event can suddenly and unusually have such a profound impact and awaken our consciousness in this way?
We shall definitely have to start working out the nature of this connection, or have we already found it?
The song? Lyrics, melody, power of the voice, ...it's srtikes some chord inside, at least for me.
I thought of a lady making a journey, and then related it to my Mum (the mum who raised me and who I love dearly). She is getting on and I was forced, for a time, to consider her limited mortality. I shall miss her very much when she's gone.

Mary, You spoke of direction and change. I'm glad to hear that your journey is heading in a positive direction.
I feel that mine is too, very much. Something like stepping out from under a cloud and realising that it was sunny all along.

Lizzie, I join in to welcome you to PC. G'day!

Cheers to all.
Peter

Marge, Hi.
Please forgive me. I was reading about your "Peek-a-Pom" and read "Peek-a-Porn"!
My eyes must be tired. At least I hope that's it!

Peter

Sally C, That's time is special, isn't it!

I second your suggestion for Paul to give us one or two of his own impressions of the show.

Peter

Hi!
I think everythings going to be allright with my mom and her boyfriend!! God is soo good!
well time for school.
as always till next time-
lizee

Oh. My. Stars.

Last night, after hockey practice, I took too VERY hungry little mites to the local fast-food chicken place (YES, go ahead and judge my mothering! But I had a coupon!) ;-) Anyway, as we're sitting in the booth, doling out biscuits and chicken I realize we are sitting right underneath the speaker for the internal stereo system...

Oh yes...yes indeedy!

"Tiny Dancer"

I started laughing and tears of "connection" and recognition blurred my vision. Were you guys reading and responding at that exact same time, half a world away? ARE we building and fortifying our psychic connections with one another? Are we just becoming more AWARE, in general? (Or has Elton John's publicist released a "Greatest Hits" compilation and that's why all the air play lately? Seriously, the skeptic MUST ask to rule out all "common" factors before happily settling with they mystical ones.)

So...there.

(Michelle - no red light needed yet! Plus, now there's so many (27) of them I don't know if theyll need the extra help. The goats might, though! (gasp!) They'r coming next Tues. Four of them. Eek! Old Miss Dhi had a farm, E-I-E-Ooooats.)

Smooch,
**poof**

Hey all.

Paul, sounds like you're second show went great, but not suprised here! Peter's take on your judging with your heart seems very appropriate. I get the feeling your heart leads most of the time and that is beautiful. I wish I could be more that way. Take, for example, the feeling my heart is having now about wanting more kids. I have two and I want three in the worst way. After having cancer my husband thought I'd change my mind - questions about my future ect. Funny thing is, the exact opposite happened. Having a third would be the most life affirming thing I could do. BUT husband's thoughts are completely different than mine. We can't even talk about it anymore. I wish I could follow where my heart leads on this. My heart even tells me to adopt - from China. I've always felt pulled to do this. BUT my husband's sister is adopted and it was horrible when she was young, so he is completely against it. That will never happen.

Anyway, so for rambling. Just feel empty hearted. To top it off I'm feeling like hypochandriac with some aches and pains - worried about reoccurance. It's funny that I can worry about that and plan for the future at the same time! Life is weird.

Thanks for reading my thoughts all!

Take care

Jill

Hello!!
The funniest thing happened this morning(well I think its funny). There are two stories in my house and I was leaving for school and I was yelling goodbye to my mom and I said "I LOVE YOU MUM!!" And she said what did you call me?". I was dying on the floor laughing and then she asks who I was hanging around and that I watch to many movies .......no idea what that meant :)
well im at chorus rehearsal so
love you all
--lizee--

Dhi, Michelle & Peter, I'm leaning towards the mystical factor! But whatever it is, it feels good. I think Peter is right when he says maybe we should not be surprised by these things. Maybe the joy is in just trusting in them.

Michelle, I agree with you and Peter about the 'little things'. The simple pure truths are often condensed in them but sometimes I think it takes stillness to be conscious of them.

Peter, a long solitary drive along a dark highway seems like a good place to find them...

Comimg out from under a cloud to find the sun has always been shining is exactly how I feel. I keep feeling like I'm making up for lost time! Maybe you can relate when I say that working from the head is letting go its grip somewhat. I think I will always be a 'head' person but I'm beginning to trust in allowing other parts of who I am to balance me up more. This is part of the moving on in another direction. And instead of wishing I could have been different and felt the freedom and joy that is coming easier to me now at an earlier point of my life, I'm just grateful that I find myself here now. Also, one good side effect of being on a different road is that I feel like my life is still only beginning!

It was lovely to read your words about your Mum. I'm sure she is very proud of you. That sense of loving someone and being loved is surely what transcends any other experience we can have. It's the thread that ties us all together.

Marge, I hope the rehearsals go really well.

Astrid & Abeth, where are you both?? I hope all is well.

Love to Paul and all in PC,
Mary

PS I reckon 'peek-a-porn' is right up there with the living orgasm!

hi
sorry for being late but thanks for the welcome peter
-lizee-

Jill, I'm sorry you're struggling today. I imagine wanting a child and trying to understand your husband's reasons for not wanting one would put you in an unhappy place. We're amazing creatures, we humans, with our ability to look to the future while holding onto worries about the present! Trying to balance the light and dark sides isn't always easy, is it? Try not to let the fear get the best of you, I'm sure all is well. I hope tomorrow is better for you.

Marge, it's good to hear from you! Cricket sounds like a wonderful new friend. My dog Holly is having surgery on her left hind leg next week. I hope she'll be back catching frisbees by Spring. She's such a good girl.

Dhi, you're raising goats now? What will your dog have to say about that? How does he feel now that his chicks are grown? As to hearing Tiny Dancer again, I feel as if the Universe is thumping us all on the head wondering why we aren't "getting it"! I'm slow that way I guess:)

Peter and Mary, here's another coincidence. After you spoke about your Mum, Peter, and we all chimed in about the "little things", this poem appeared in the newspaper. It was in an article about Autumnal poems, comparing the feelings of the season with those of the "Autumn of one's life". This is only the first stanza, but I thought it was quite poignant. It's called October Fullness by Pablo Neruda.

Little by little, and also in great leaps,
life happened to me,
and how significant this business is.
These veins carried my blood, which I scarcely ever saw,
I breathed the air of so many places
without keeping a sample of any.
In the end, everyone is aware of this:
nobody keeps any of what he has,
and life is only a borrowing of bones.
The best thing was learning not to have too much
either of sorrow or of joy.
to hope for the chance of a last drop,
to ask more from honey and from twilight.

I look forward to peeling away the layers. Getting down to remembering what we've all forgotten;) Hey Universe, I'm ready for my next clue!!!

Love you guys,
Michelle

Lizzie,

I'm glad things worked out for you and your family!

Peace,
Michelle

Dhi, Mary & Michelle. Wow. Hmmmm. Will it be revealed or is it already with us?
A confirmation, perhaps?

Michelle, loved the poem.

Jill, Sorry to hear of your pain.
Re adoption: I have mainly only positive things to say about my experiences. It is down to the individual and their circumstances. Some trhings are harder, but you adapt. Life is different for every person, including adoptees.
My only negative experiences were related back to my birth family, but resolving it (let's say it now about 95%) has allowed me to move on in my life.
I hope it turns out good for you.

Peter

Good Afternoon,
Somthing really great happened. Theres an event in florida called "all-state". This event is when students from all public schools (in Florida) audition and if they make both auditions then they are part of this enormous performance in this grand balroom fitting a thousand people. I went when I was in 7th grade (now im in 9th). I found out that I passed the first audition and my score was higher than a senior that auditioned in my school;Now im not getting a big head but im sooo happpy!! The first part of the audition you take a written test and you sight-read and the second part (coming up) is they send you seven pieces of music, and you sing your part in an octet. AAHhh im soo excited!! I wish that you all have had an even better day than I.
With love and excitement
--lizee--

(thanks michelle:)

Jill how can you feel empty hearted when you already have two beautiful children and a husband?? I may not fully understand the pull a woman feels towards having children and I can understand in my own limited way how life affirming it would be to give birth to another life but fill your heart with the gifts you have.

Fill your heart with the love around you and allow that to grow and expand and nurture you. Then in turn nurture your family, then your friends and then the community around you. Thats what I do. Hopefully your heart will be bursting with love and joy!

To all,
Im retiring for the night--have a beautiful day or night wherever you are.
Jill I wish the best for you and I may not know much of what your going through but,as a suggestion,ask God for guidance,he always comes through for me,I pray he will do the same for you.
Love to all
--lizee--=)

Jill,

Chin up !! It will be o.k. Paul is right, just think about all the wonderful things in life you have, I think that helped pull me out of the stinkhole I was in for weeks. It helped me feel better, knowing and acknowledging the things in my life I knew were good. Screw the bad stuff. It is not worth yout time. Your hubby is entitled to his feelings and wishes, but those may change over time. Maybe he just doesnt want your body put through the ringer anymore. (boy do I know what THAT feels like. It will work out, I know it will.

Lots of love,

Kelly

Paul,

I tried to send this to the link under your name so I didnt have to post it publicly, but AIt came back, which I completely understand and respect. I let it sit in my "sent" bin for a week or so and after reading Jill's post, and your response, I thought I aught to just post it, and let people think what they want to. The following was my email to you, I will copy it exactly as it was written to you.

email Subject Gratitude:

Paul,

I am not sure if this comes to you , or to Cat, but I just wanted to express to you without everyone else reading it, how important and special this blog has been to me. Sometimes, many times, it has been the only place I could truley turn. I have always been the "happy" one and it is not always easy or accepting for me to be seen any other way. People don't understand, so I just keep up the happy face. But here, I learned I don't have to do that. I honestly don't know if I could have made it the last year without all of you. Thanks to Cat for running the board and thanks to you for being the vehicle that drew us all together in the same place. You wrote me a while back that you sat at the computer to respond to my pain and you felt useless, there was nothing you could do or say to make it better, but you were wrong. I printed that out and kept it in my purse and read it when I needed to feel loved and supported, and thought of everyone at the corner each time I read it. Suddenly I wasn't alone anymore. You sent me your thoughts and love and asked me to not give up on myself and not let the light dim. Well, I haven't and my light is getting brighter and brighter.

Paul, your words meant so very much to me in a time I don't think I could have escaped on my own. I am still enjoying Clay's football games (undefeated) and Paige's basketball games (undefeated), they are what I live for. My love for my husband and my love for my family is what I cherish most. But you and the corner are so very special to me, in ways I could never really express fully. I feel like you all know a part of me that no one else knows. Not even Tom, not really.

Anyway, I wanted you to really know what a difference you have made in my life. If you ever questioned if your words or your message to us really made an impact, it did , and still does. You are so important in so many ways to all of us. We are all improtant to each other. I didn't want to post this on the blog as it seems to personal and "kiss ass"
but it really is not meant to be "kiss ass". I just want to show my appreciation to you for putting yourself out there for all of us. Giving us the messages you do and giving us something to think about, and also giving us others to meet and to befreind and to love.
I cherish my friends at PC, and I always will.

Thanks again, I really mean it. Hold your family close, and love them every day.

I am so very glad I decided to take the journey with you and the gang. It has changed my life and given me light in times there was none.

A forever friend and fan

Kelly Haggard

Jill, I'm recovering from the flu and cracked up at your response to Paul's call for a beer soup recipe! However, as I read through the recipes, I definitely started feeling better! Ah, having more kids. Yes, there are certainly MANY out there who would love to have a good mom. I work at an agency that helps kids who've been abused and it is at times heartbreaking work; at other times, heartlifting. If you're feeling the draw toward another child, there must be a reason... Before I sign off (am still in flu recovery mode) I just want to add my appreciation to that expressed by Kelly. The awesome work of keeping up this site is appreciated and what is especially good about it are the good people who engage in exchanges on it. Okay, back to Tylenol flu capsules, hot tea, and dreams of beer soup. Jennifer

Good morning,
Im tired (yawn).=0
Well im off to school.I pray for a happy day for you all.
(Praying for you Jill)
(Beautiful post Kelly)
(Hope you feel better Jennifer)
With love....and a yawn=0
--lizee--
(wow im corny...."with love and a yawn"?)

Kelly, you have put into words the feelings we all have about Paul. Sometimes, when all seems hopeless, we can turn to him and all our PC friends for love and support. Paul is our light in the darkness and we are in his circle of light always...

Peter, it is so good to hear you speaking so positively about your experiences with your birth mother and the family that you found. When I first came to PC, you were in a dark place because of it, but now you are so changed. I'm glad your journey is taking you in a better direction. It can only get better and better.

Dhi and Michelle, good to see you post again. I missed you both.

Jennifer and all fighting the flu and other illnesses, hope you feel better soon.

Hi across the pond to Mary and Kim, big hello to all our little cyber-family.

Have a great weekend and be well.

Oh guys! Thanks for your words. They mean the world to me.

Paul - you sound just like my husband. He says the exact same things to me. I love my two sweet babies more than anything. They are my life and my love. I am learning to let go of this want and leaving for God to handle. I know that if it's meant to be - it will happen. Just some days it gets the best of me. Especially when I've been sick with the "flu" and not able to take my Paxil. You are so sweet to reply to me and even sweeter to use it as a kick in my butt to remember and cherish what I have. Believe me, I know how lucky and full my life is. It's this woman thing of wanting another child. It's funny, you telling me this makes me realize it more than my husband saying the same thing. See, he's my husband, I'm suppose to disagree with him! But a neutral third party who is a man, makes it clearier. Thanks for that and for everything. I'm in awe that people who only know each other as words on a screen can have this level of compassion.

Right now I'm looking for someone to teach me guitar. It's one of the ways that I'm focusing on the life I have and can live fully. I've always wanted to learn how to play. Now to just move forward with it!

Take care all and again thanks!

Jill

hello all!!
A dreadful yet surprising thing happened this morning. I was eating my breakfst I started coughing and then my breakfst came out the way it went in so my mom didnt allow me to go to school but thats not it.My mom told me that she and her boyfriend didnt get over the last quarell. He was being a real jerk.
Then he called this morning and said that he got in a car accident (thats the dreadful thing)(his truck was totaled). But some good came out of it when he called he said that out of everyone he could of called he wanted to call my mom(thats the surprising thing). My mom said that there was a change in his tone and in him.
My mom said, "It was so strange the way he spoke".God works in mysterious and unusual ways.
I mean I dont get it! One day they love eachother the next shes angry with him and oh my goodness.
Love is confusing wich is one reason why I am in no rush what-so-ever to become an adult. You adults put up with so much and I can completely wait for it. Till then im enjoying my youth years and the time period while im un-employed.
So im going to go be a lazy teenager and take a nap.
Bye!!
--liz--

Okay can't shut up today!

I am finding ways to nurture those around me. I'm a chemo angel for 3 people going through chemo, I make "Totes of Hope" for people diagnosed with cancer. They contain items to help them through this time. That is how I'm filling myself up and letting it spill onto the people around me. That image alone makes me smile. The idea of my happiness filling up the emptiness of others. Actually as a teacher, it's what I do all day long - fill up the students around me. With knowledge yes, but I also try to get them to see the good around them. To get them to smile at the world. Hey ! I just realized I have way more than my 2 kids at home. I also have 144 other kids everyday to fill my life up with. You're right Paul, how can I be empty hearted. I can't and it's that simple!

Okay, now I"m done!

Jill

Jill, I know others here have heard me say this before, but I have to say it again now to you. I don't believe any one of us found this place by chance. There seems to be a purpose to what Paul has created here. And whatever that purpose is, from what I can see, its essence is life-affirming, supportive and loving. I hope the fact that you were led here comforts you and that you will always feel free to tap into that energy any time you need to. As Sally said, we have all had the experience of doing that. You are right in acknowledging the place the children you teach have in the big picture for you. They will carry a part of who you are with them through their whole life. I wish you good days ahead Jill.

Kelly, your words to Paul really touched me. You have expressed so beautifully exactly how it is. I feel privileged to have had the chance to share your thoughts. I understand completely your need to express your appreciation to him. Sometimes I also wonder does Paul realise how much he has touched the course of our journeys. Not just because of what he says or how he responds to people, but also because of the way those he has drawn here can touch our lives. I hope he does. Love to you Kelly.

Michelle, the poem is beautiful. To have made the connection with you here is one of the greatest gifts that Paul has given me. Thanks for helping me to find my bearings, just at a time when I needed it most.

Peter, I feel more and more that what is being revealed is actually something we already know. I think the confirmation for something like that will always come at a time when we are ready to recognise it.

In that spirit, something that you wrote ages ago has been coming back into my mind recently. It was something along the lines of you believing that you were meant to take on your life journey on your own, at least to some extent. I'd be interested in hearing your thoughts on that now but only if you feel like sharing them. I've come to see that they have a relevance in my journey up to this point.

In the spirit of sharing, I want to say that one of the ways you have touched my life, Peter, is in confirming and affirming many good things for me. You may never know how much this has helped me to find steady ground in the path ahead of me. Maybe some day I'll explain it to you!

Sally, sending love across to you. Thanks for the wave! I hope that things are good for you.

Millie, special love to you. I hope you and Ellie are well.

Paul, this is for you. I want to thank you for gathering this family here and for giving me the chance to be a part of it.

'The bond that links your true family is not one of blood, but of respect and joy in each other's life.'

Illusions - Richard Bach.

Love to all,
Mary

What can this Mother Hen say to her chickies in her pen? You all are so wonderful, caring, thoughtful, and loving, and what a place this has become!

PC is truly a refuge from the storm, and a place where hopes, aspirations, and yes, disappointments are shared.

This old lady is truly in awe. Thank you, Cat, thank you, Paul, bless you and all the angels on PC for the "mitzvahs" (good deeds) that you all do for each other through your love and encouragement.

Ellie and I just saw "Shall We Dance" with Richard Gere and Jennifer Lopez. It's a must see, a lovely film, and guess what Paul, the choreograper is John (Cha Cha) O'Connell! We didn't know that until the credit crawl at the end!

Guys, John O'Connell was the choreographer for "Strictly Ballroom", "Moulin Rouge" and "Muriel's Wedding"!

"Shall We Dance" does not rise to the level of the passion and beauty of "Strictly Ballroom", but in this season of violence on screen and in the world, it is a ray of sunshine!

Shalom and Love,

Gran Mil

Lizzie, please click my name and write to me!

I want to discuss something with you!

xxxxGran Mil

Just stumbled across this website and was glad to be able to catch up with the career of Paul Mercurio. I have seen Strictly Ballroom (loved it), Exit to Eden, and Joseph - have probably been a fan since SB although up here in Canada have not seen Paul in ages.... might have to look up some of those other film titles at the video store...... I also noticed the "Paul's Recipes" section and found a beer recipe in a wee book I have - it is a Scottish recipe but maybe your Australian beer will work just as well....... (hope it would Paul?!)

All the best Paul and hope the career is steaming ahead!!!!! Hope to see more of you in the future........

FARMER'S BREW (stew)

1.5 lb. stewing steak; 1 oz. seasoned flour; 2 oz. butter; 4 oz. onions (sliced); 1 oz. granulated sugar; pinch of mustard powder; sprig of fresh tyme; 1 bayleaf; salt & pepper; 10 fl. oz. Scottish ale; 5 fl. oz. beef stock.

Ste oven to 4ooF. Slice meat into thin strips and toss in the seasoned flour. Melt the butter in a heavy ovenproof casserole dish and brown the meat and onions. Add the sugar, mustard, tyme and bayleaf and season well. Bring up to heat, cover and cook in the oven for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven, add the beer and stock and bring to a boil. Reduce the oven temperature to 325F. return the casserole to the oven and cook for a further 1.5 hours. Serve on a bed of mashed potatoes. Serves 4 to 6.

Kelly, I am so glad that you decided to share your letter with all of us. Quite sincerely as I read it I got all teary - thank you so much for sharingyour thoughts with me. I am quite sure we all feel the same about this corner of our world. Plenty of thanks have been said but again I will thank Cat for being as wonderful, caring and nurturing as she has been, is and always will be.

This corner is a special place for me and all who visit have a special place in my heart and in the road of my journey. Each of us are like stepping stones, building the road that we travel by, supporting, guiding and journeying into the great unknown. Wonderfully, building this pathway together means that when we travel along it we never need travel alone.

Ken thanks for the recipe!!

Grandma Millie we havent had a Follies report in a while?! Hows rehearsals going?

Thanks Paul,

I am glad my words touched your heart, now you know how we feel when you lift our chins off the floor, or dazzle us with your poems, or make us laugh with your quirky humor. Many times your words have moved ME to tears. I find you, and everyone here insperational and you all have a piece of my heart forever.

Hey guys, I am 36 today ! (AU time, US time tommorrow) WOW, when I was 20 I thought at 36 I would be financially set and high up in my "career". I thought I would be set in my future and settled in my life and close to getting bored with mostly grown kids. Little did I know I would be financially strapped every second of the day, completely bogged down with NO career, just a dead end job, we have planned very well for the future, but I don't feel settled what so ever. I feel like there is so much to do in life I just fave the time or energy to do them. I can't imagine "setteling down", or even having the time to think about it. My kids keep me young I suppose. I just can't beleive how it creeped up on me. I have decided to embrace the future full force and see what happens. Anybody want to jump on the wagon and come along for the ride?

xoxoxo
Kelly

Sally C, thanks for those words. There is still a little darkness. I'm just better equipped to deal with it now. At least I've learnt some good things from this all.

Mary, I would feel flattered, but I don't know that I have actually done anything, however I am very pleased.

Turning back a little to the subject of "coincidences" (as in "Tiny Dancer), here's one that I don't think I have ever shared:
About four years ago, I went with my BM to where she and her family settled when they migrated to Australia. It is a suburb on the northern beaches of Sydney. The house number was 56.
This was the address shown on my adoption papers as being her place of residence. I had never been to that place before and had no business or connections there of any kind whatsoever.
That was on a Saturday. She couldn't locate the house, but we found out later that a commercial premises had been built in front of it.
On the Monday, I received a letter in the mail from a company that I have never heard of. It contained a services brochure for something or other. I can't remember exactly what it was, but I do rememeber thinking "what the hell is this and why would anyone send this to me? It looked very specific in it's audience. Definitely not something that you would do a general mail out for.
I looked at the address.
The address of the place was in the same street as her old house, and the number was 58, i.e. next door.

Perhaps there are places that serve as some kind of nexus for energies throughout the Universe. Maybe, for me, this was one of them.

Have a great weekend, Mary.
PS please explain it to me some day.

Peter

Paul, the "Follies" rehearsals are going just "spiffy" (a line in the show that always gets a laugh) with only 3 1/2 months to go!

I am hiring a bass guitar player this weekend which completes my band (piano, drums, bass) and soon I will be finalizing the playbill for printing.

The costuming for the cast is almost complete, and it looks like my costume will be pretty outrageous. Talk about the chickies in my pen...I will be bedecked with feathers in my headpiece, and in the large fan that I will be carrying. (I am lipsynching to Queen Latifah's "When You're Good To Momma" from
"Chicago".)

I am not very graceful in the dance department, but I manage to move to the outrageous beats of that song, which reminds me of stripper music...can you believe?

In one large cast number, called "Who Cares", someone yells out, "Hey, how about the price of gas?" and the cast sings back, "Ahh, who cares if the sky cares to fall in the sea, who cares if banks fail in Yonkers, long as you have the kiss that conquers" and then I decided to have someone call out, "Hey, how about my FLU SHOT!! etc., etc. That ought to get a response from the audience!

(No flu shots for anyone here or anywhere, and already I'm concerned for all those planning to come to the FIF, and, of course, my cast also!)

Maybe by the beginning of the year, we'll be able to get them, if it's not too late!

The show has 36 acts, including 5 Latin dances, and some great singers, all seniors from our village, except for young Mercia (46) who is doing flamenco...she is the fitness instructor in her spare time.

I'm extremely proud of the cast, and I say it often to them.

Two women have been doing the choreography for the group numbers, for they were professionals in their former lives, and both are appearing in the dance sequences that they choreographed.

That's the update, Paul. Time is fleeting.

On January 3rd we go into the big Theatre for final rehearsals.

The weekend for FIF starts Febr. 3rd.

Mary and Monika are coming then from overseas, and our other darlings coming on the weekend. The show is Febr. 7th, (morning) and 8th and 9th, (evening performances, ticketed)

We know that if you could, you would be attending also. After all, the weekend is really a tribute to you personally, and Follies is just part of the entertainment.

Love you, Paul, love to Andrea and the girls!

Gran Mil

Good morning,
Its cold outside!!!! It probably wont last long but it feels so nice. I love the cold weather. I live in Florida so 40 degrees is below freezing for me.
I have just a general question for anyone. My grandmother has diabetes. What exactly is it....I know is some kind of disease or somthing but what does it do? My mom doesnt really like to talk about it wich is why im asking.
Well I think thats it.............yup thats all for now.
TaTa
--lizee--

Happy Birthday, Kelly! I hope you have a wonderful day with your family. We never really know where life will take us, I suppose. But yeah, I'm up for going along with you! Let's ride, Baby!

Love to you,
Michelle

I'm with you Kelly. I'll bring some wine and the camera!

Who else is coming? Bring the fun.

Jill

Happy birthday, Kelly.

Yup, birthdays catch up with you before you know it. When I was a child, I couldn't wait to be a teenager. When I was a teenager, I couldn't wait to be an adult. Then I couldn't wait to be married and have a family. And now, I've done all that and I'm a "senior" enjoying my grandchildren and looking forward to retired life (if the government doesn't stop raising the retirement age, that is!). It seems that I just blinked, and here I am! If I could offer any words of wisdom now, I would say to you to enjoy life and the little happy moments it brings unexpectedly. I missed out on quite a few things because we had no money, but do you know what? It's the little everyday things that are the treasures you can't buy - a beautiful sunrise or sunset, seeing all the stars on a clear, cold night. Those little bits of paper from your children with love notes scratched on it - I could go on and on, but I'm sure you can understand what I mean. Old age finds you before you know it, so grab life by the horns and hang on!

Let's ride!!

Be well.

Happy birthday Kelly!! I wish you joy and harmony for the year ahead. As for the ride, count me in. Just let me know when we're taking off!

Millie, I can't wait for FIF!

Peter, when you relate a story like this I no longer feel surprised but I am still in awe of it all. As for the explaining, I will do. I promise.

Love to Cat, Paul & all in the PC family.

Mary

Dear Paul,

I have a doubt: I have a place in your heart too?
Kisses angel!

Hi to eberyone here even though I do not know any of you.......

Hi Paul

You are welcome for the recipe - that was a quick and unsuspected response - you must have been reading the posts as I typed mine. I was surprised to find that you may have been on-line the same time as me (considering the time difference!)

Hope if you try that recipe - it works!!!!!!

Cold & wet up here in Canada (Ontario) today - I HATE wet & cold!!!! - summer must be starting down under - can I come for a visit Paul??? :)

Hi all,

I am trying to set things up so that any of you that would like to see last weeks “Dancing with the Stars” can.

First off I want to warn you that it can be a bit fiddly setting this up on your computer and Cat has warned me that these instructions might be too difficult to follow. But I think it’s worth a try, so read on and if you’re feeling brave then give it a go.

Aww go on and give it a go anyway. You can’t really break anything. It just mightn’t work and you’ll have wasted twenty minutes.

I copied the show to a computer file in a format called “MP4”. I did this because videos take up a huge amount of room on a computer unless they are compressed. The compressing makes the file much, much smaller but it also makes the quality worse. [So a highly compressed file might be small, but you would have trouble recognizing a face because it would be so blurry. A non-compressed file might look great but it would take days to download over a telephone line.]

There are lots of different compression systems designed by different people. The one I used (MP4) is very good and very new. Some bright cookies have been hard at work making sure that you still get a good picture without too much downloading time.

The problem is that this format is so new that the Windows operating system doesn’t know about it yet! So if you want to watch an MP4 file, you will need to install a program to teach Windows about the format first. You run this program once. It contains the information needed by Windows to understand MP4 files and Windows will remember from then on. For the technically minded this is called “installing a codec”. For everyone else, it is called “a nuisance”.

So in general terms, what I am proposing is as follows:

You download the program that teaches Windows about MP4 files.
You run it (the only time you need to do this)
You download a short test video in MP4 format that I have set up.
You “play” the video in “Windows Media Player” and tell Windows that this is the program you want to use from now on to play MP4 files.

If you can get this far then you are laughing. You will be able to download MP4 files from anywhere on the Internet and Windows will know how to play them and which program you like to use to watch them with.

When you are done, you might even like to download “Dancing with the Stars” Episode 2!

From here on in, I’m going to get specific so you might want to print these instructions out if you have a printer and are happy using it.

Go to the web page:
www.mpegable/show/download.html

You will see several “download now” buttons. The top one is for the “mpegable DS decoder”. This is the one you want. Click on this “download now” button.

A small window screen will appear, warning you that some files can harm your computer and asking if you want to “Open”, “Save”, “Cancel” or get “More info”. You want to “Open” so click the “Open” button. You will now have to wait for a few minutes while the program downloads.

The screen will change to the “mpegable DS decoder V2.1 Installation” screen and you will get a greetings window saying “Welcome!” and some warnings. Don’t worry, this is free software and you have just downloaded it from the copyright owner.

You should mouse click on the “Next >” button.

You will get the license agreement which always provides fun reading for non-lawyers. When (if) you are happy to continue, click “Yes”

You will now get the option of “Choose Start Menu Folder”. You don’t need to do this, so you should mouse click on the tick inside the box labeled “Create Start Menu entries”. This will make the tick disappear and the rest of the information about program folders will disappear too. When the tick is gone, click on the “Next >” button.

The next screen is “Copy Data” and you can just leave it as it is and click on the “Install” button.

After some copying of files, the screen will show “Installation Complete” and you can click on “Finish”. At this point, the program will exit and you will have installed the MP4 software on your computer. Congratulations.

Now you need a sample file to play.

Go to the web page http://members.ii.net/~crosse.bg

It isn’t actually a proper web page but a list of files will appear.

Click on “DWTS – Sample.mp4”
A file download window will pop up asking if you want to “Open”, “Save”, “Cancel” or get “More Info”. This time you want to “Save” so click the “Save” button.

You will be prompted for where the computer should save your file. If you are not sure where you want it, then “My Documents” is fine and will probably be the default location so you can just click “Save”.

Now the file will come down over your Internet connection. For the sample file, this should only be a few seconds.

When the download is complete, you will be given the options of “Open”, “Open Folder” and “Close”. Click on “Open”

One of two things should now happen. Either the sample file will begin to play using video viewing software already loaded on your PC (such as “Quicktime”) or more likely, Windows will say that it cannot open the file and ask you whether you want to use the web to find a program or select the program from a list.

You want to “Select the program from a list” so you should click inside the circle to the left of where it says “Select the program from a list”. A small green dot should now appear inside the circle. Click “OK”

You will now have a list of programs which Windows thinks might be okay to use. You should select “Windows Media Player” by clicking on it. (You might need to scroll down the list a bit to find it). When you click on it, it will display with a blue background.

Under the list of files is an option “Always use the selected program to open this kind of file”. It will have a small square to the left of it. There should be a tick inside the square. If there is NOT a tick, then you should click inside the square with your mouse and a tick will appear. When the tick is showing, click “OK”

The sample file should now play! If it does not play, then let me know, because I have probably forgotten something.

If it does play then you are set up for playing MP4 files. You might want to go back to http://members.ii.net/~crosse.bg and download other Dancing with the Stars clips by clicking on them and saving them to your computers hard disk.

DWTS-02-1.mp4 is Dancing with the Stars – Episode 2 – Part 1
DWTS-02-2.mp4 is Dancing with the Stars – Episode 2 – Part 2 etc

I did not record Episode 1….Sorry.

Good Luck,

Brian

Rats!!!

10 seconds after I post, I find the first error!
The first web address should be:

http://www.mpegable.com/show/download.html

I missed out on the ".com"!

Sorry,

Brian

Kelly, Belated Happy Birthday wishes to you. I hope that it was a good one!

Mary, I'll look forward to that.

Peter

Millie, The Follies sound as though they are shaping up brilliantly!
I am constantly in awe of your creativity and energy. I also wish that I had the time.

Peter

Another Happy Birthday atcha Kelly! Grandma Mil, I was so cracking up at your description of wanting to sing out What About My Flu Shot! No kidding. Being in the throes of recovery from what I thought was a cold but now believe to be the flu, I figured/hoped I'd wait a coupla weeks before lining up to get the flu shot. Yeah right. The local Kaiser which usually hold a month of flu shots, ran out in a couple of hours, and lines at supermarkets and super pharmacies are ridiculous. I guess I'll just have to trust the universe that I won't get sick (again). Brian, you're a saint for giving those instructions but I got lost and will wait until "patience" kicks in to try again. Best to all. Jennifer

Mary, Re: taking journey on my own.

I think that this is true in part.
I firmly believe that this is all a test of some kind (isn't it always), and that there are some things for which it is necessary for me to complete via my own initiative, if not entirely under my own steam.

Something that I have learnt, however, is that I am never alone, and if we open up to asking (the Universe) for help, then it will come in one form or another. Perhaps that's my lesson. I don't know yet. I'm waiting patiently.

Perceptions play a big part in how we approach our lives. So many times a relatively simple task will seem arduous, if not insurmountabe, but then when it's tackled it's soon completed, with much greater ease than our emotional self would have anticipated or previously accepted.
I find this on a daily basis.
Sometimes it works in reverse, which is really good.

I know that I'm getting closer to my goals, but I'm also now realising that the larger material goals are only a vehicle for those that are of real importance. Without the journey, we would not grow.
That's not to say that my important goals are all material, and those that are have been undertaken mostly to help secure a future for our kids. I don't really care if I end up with bugger-all, as long as I can have some free time, now and again.

Peter

Hello everyone,
Im taking what would be called a Leave of absence from PC's.
My family isnt doing to well. Theres alot of detail that goes into it but its depressing enough to ruin your day so theres no need to tell you all.
So goodbye for now
--lizee--
(blessed birthday kelly)

Ken, I have a strange question for you. My son just sold all his video game systems on ebay and a couple people from Canada bought them. Can you use the same system in Canada that you use in the US? Or do you need an adaptor or something? I listed that I only shipped to US but these people bid anyway. I didn't think about about till I had already shipped it, so I hope so. It was a Gamecube and a Dreamcast. Just wondering!
Thanks,
Kelly

Brian,

what a doll you are to help us se tthis up! I followed the direction perfectly but I can't see anything when the Media Player pulls up to play. I t jsut has to little boxes there were pictures should be and it doesn't play. In fact, I cant close it. There is nothing there but a white image. Now I was able to download the second option for "player" and a box does come up but you cant play anything there. HELP ! I so desperately want to seee this !!!! Thanks for the time and energy you are showing to help us !

Kelly

Kelly, a belated very happy birthday to you. I hope it was a fantastic one for you. I smiled when I read your description of how you expected your life to be at 36. Same here, I'll be 35 next week (I think :-)) and even though I think I've reached a lot of things I wanted to reach and some more, I guess I do have stability with this job, but my life is so different from what I anticipated it would be, what I'd be doing etc. It's great!!! I also meant to tell you, I really admire the tenacity you have to keep going in difficult circumstances. You've inspired me quite a bit. Thank you!

Grandma, I can't wait to see your outfit in all it's purple, feathery royal glory :) and your lip syncing. Can't wait to see it with my own eyes, you are spectacular on tape!!! And I can't wait to see you and Follies and everyone else in February!!!

Mary, I'm doing much better. Having found my inner center and calm again is helping, even though the circumstances in the problem class haven't changed much, although a bit and that's what I'm focusing on, the slow, perhaps minute progress I'm making with this group and they are making for themselves. I'm working on accepting the things I can't change and not to let them stress me out as much as they did last month and to change the things that I can change. For a while I just focused on the negative, the frustrating, the exhausting parts in my life, now I'm focusing on the good and fun and wonderful things in my life of which there are plenty. Not only does this leave me with a happier outlook on life, it’s also very freeing. I’m enjoying a lot of the “little” things that make moments and life memorable and special, it’s the gorgeous scenery I drive through every morning on my way to work, the river is different every time I drive along it and it’s so calming and soothing and a thousand other things that happen and that I so often take for granted. Sally isn’t it a great way to start the day, driving through gorgeous country? I so not miss the big city traffic, the congestion and rush hour.
So Michelle, that does kind of answer your question as well, I miss some things personally and professionally here in St.Peter/Mankato, but I’m also very happy to be here, It’s a good fit professionally and there are some really amazing people here, my boss and colleague and friend (yes, she’s all that) being one of them, who has been incredibly supportive and helpful to me dealing with these challenges.

Paul I’m very happy that you got this gig. It sounds like you are having a lot of fun and thank you Peter for your reviews. I really do enjoy reading them a lot. Very humorous and informative and vivid that I can picture a lot of what you describe in my mind.

Welcome to all the newbies, Lizzie, Ken and Brian. Love to everyone here, good to hear from you Dhi, Marge I’m so glad you have a new dog, give him/her? a hug from me, okay? or play a bit of extra fetch with him/her, whichever the dog prefers.

Love

Ps. I forgot, Paul, I have two German Beer Soup recipes for you, but I have to translate them into English first, unless of course you are finally willing to admit that you are fluent in German and thus save me the translation "effort" :-) Well, anyway, it won't happen tonight, as I'm heading off to bed now, but I'll try to fit that into my busy week. Just wanted to give you the heads up on that.

Hi Kelly,

I'll take the easy question first. Canada uses the same TV system that the US does so there shouldn't be any problem with the game console up there.

Regarding the dancing video stuff, it sounds like you have tried two different players (Windows Media Player and Mpegable) and neither worked so I suspect that the .mp4 file itself didn't come down correctly. Can I ask you to try a few things?

Can you run the Mpegable player again? This is the one you download from the second "download now" button. You should get a window pop up with options along the top for "File", "View", "Options" and "Help". Select "File" by clicking on it and then choose "Open". You should now select the sample file you downloaded (DWTS - Sample.mp4) and click "Open". Does that start playing the video? [If you don't know where you saved the sample file to, you probably saved it to "My Documents" so you should click on the "My Documents" button on the left side of the window to show you what files are there.]

If it doesn't play, could you please let me know what version of Windows you are running (eg Windows 95, Windows XP)? You can see this on the left hand side of the screen when you click "Start" down on the bottom left corner.

Regards,

Brian

Brian,

Thanks so much for making it possible to see the Dancing with the Stars show... it's great, and the picture quality is very good! Thanks for the instructions for the codec, my computer cooperated and I was able to see it, even though Windows Media Player told me that it did not recognize the file format but would try to play it anyway. It played fine. :-)

Paul,
You look really good on the show and I feel you are being very fair in your judging. When Matt (I think that's his name) danced with his partner I thought it was visually pleasing, but he was hardly moving ... he did a lot of standing and posing. When the first and second judge gave him high score I thought it was too high. Then you gave them a seven and I felt vindicated. LOL I may not be able to dance, but I sure appreciate seeing dancers perform and are usually a pretty good judge of whether the performance had that special quality that makes it outstanding. Oh dear, I sound like I'm tooting my own horn! LOL I just appreciate the arts. :-)

Speaking of the arts, today I had the pleasure of watching a documentary on the special performance by four great ballet dancers from the American Ballet Theatre -- Angel, Jose, Ian and Valesei -- can just remember the first names ... but Angel is a Spaniard, Jose is Cuban, Ian is American and Valesei is from Ukraine. Anyway, the documentary followed the coreographer as he put together the dance, the rehearsals were a lot of fun because he is a really funny guy and injected a lot of humor into his work (I don't mean the dance was humorous, but he made the dancers laugh a lot, which they said helped them forget about their painful feet). While Jonathan and I were watching the program we thought of you often, and imagined this is what you must have been doing while working on Annie Get Your Gun. :-)

Lizzie,
Sorry to hear you have to quit the group for a while. Hope you can return very soon. Will miss your cheerful posts. Best of luck to you and your family. :-)

Hugs to everyone!
Nertha

Brian, thank you for the instructions to download "Dancing", but I fear I have done something terrible to my computer in my efforts to do so. Whatever I did, I can run my programs, but can't dial up to the internet, and I don't know what I did wrong.

Nertha, glad you got it to work.

Jill, I got the blank Windows like you did.

Outside of that, Mil, I just watched the Japanese SHALL WE DANCE Saturday and saw the HBO special of Richard Gere's preparations for the new SWD. Looks like a really good movie and I can't wait to see it and compare it to the Japanese version!

Good morning/evening to all.

Be well.

Hi Kelly

Yes, the US and Canada have the same systems so there should not be any problems - it is just the UK system that is different - probably Australian too (??) The UK has a PAL system whereas we have a VHS - not sure what the difference is but the PAL will not work on our VCR's.

THanks for the welcome Evelyn.......

Dear Ken,

Yes, welcome to PC!

I have sent video tapes to England and Ireland, and they are compatible with the U.S. VCR system, (NTSC), whereas the PAL system is the one that Australia uses, unfortunately.

I would have loved to bombard Paul and Peter with my "Sights and Sounds" video concerts!

Brian, your instructions seemed very clear...to anyone under 70! I started out, but had a MM (Millie Moment) and gave up! I'd rather lipsynch!

Jennifer, hope you are feeling better! We seniors will not be getting our shots soon, but I refuse to panic!

One of the members of our cast, a soprano, wore a white face mask when she came to rehearsals, and wiped the microphone with some antiseptic. I used to contain my laughter, but it ain't funny anymore!

Shalom and Love,

Gran Mil

Oh dear Sally,

That's a good trick. You shouldn't have been doing anything that could remotely have hurt your Internet connection. I'm guessing that since you are here on the Internet now (to tell us that you can't get on the internet) that you are using someone elses computer. Or did you get it working enough to log on?

Either way, maybe we should try to move to an email exchange so that we don't bog down PC with this. Can you email me with as much detail about what you saw when you tried to run the software as you can and what happens now when you try to log on to the Internet?

Also what version of windows are you using?

Brian

Thank you, Brian, for your offer of assistance. I am at work right now, so not entirely 'puter less. My daughter is supposed to look at my machine tonight - she said something about going back to a date before I messed up and working from there. I will definitely contact you with an update tomorrow. Thanks again.

Brian, thank you so much for taking the time to set this up for us. There would have been Millie Moments flying around the room here had I not had a lot of help...but it worked! The sound and the picture are both really clear. It's great. Thanks.

Paul, it was wonderful to get the chance to see you in action! You came across exactly as Peter had described. There's no doubt that you are a natural for television. Even on the small screen your presence was warm and spontaneous. Your rapport with the audience and with the contestants was obvious. And one last thing Paul, you are still gorgeous! (Sorry, couldn't help myself.)

Hi Peter. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. What you said made a lot of sense to me. I agree with you about this whole thing being a test and I believe that it is a test that we have agreed to take on. As I thought about what you said, I realised that what I have been thinking about is not so much to do with journeying alone, rather to do with me having to fall back on and trust to my own resources. I think you are right in saying that we are never alone. But I do believe that the path we walk on is an individual one. It is a personal test. I have come to believe over recent times that at least one of my lessons is to trust in myself and to fall back on my own inner resources. This may sound like a pretty obvious thing for someone to do but I know for me, it hasn't always been. I have had to learn to do it and it has been a slow process. I think one of the positive changes of late is the peace of mind I have found in identifying this and accepting it and maybe even making some progress towards achieving it.

As for perceptions, I think you're spot on. And our emotions do have a lot to do with how they develop. I suppose it comes back again to seeing past them in to the part that is at the essence of who we are and trusting that. And yes, the journey and growth are bound up with each other. They come together, as a kit.

Peter, if there was one thing I could send down to you, it would be some free time, with good company, wonderful music and guaranteed relaxation. You'll just have to make do with the wish! Take care.

Evelyn, so glad to hear that you are doing better.
I know what you mean about freeing yourself by focusing on the positive. Even turning to look in that direction is uplifting. You are so lucky driving to work through beautiful countryside. I leave it to head into traffic and if it wasn't for listening to music, I think I'd go crazy! One of my dreams is to some day find myself living on the north-west coast and be surrounded by the peace and beauty there. It sounds like you already have a taste of that. I wish you much enjoyment from it. Take care Evelyn.

Michelle, how are you doing today? Love to you.

Sally & Kelly, I hope you manage to get to see Paul. Good luck!

Ken, you're very welcome.

Hope everyone in PC is well tonight.

Love to all,
Mary

Hello All,

I just talked to Grandma Millie over the phone and she told me how great rehersals are going for Follies 2005. She's putting her heart and soul into this great event and from what she describes it's going to be an amazing show!

All is quite in Fort Lauderdale today. We're enjoying the change of weather around here. People are getting out everywhere walking around downtown and finding interest again in this great city trotting off to the downtown museum, jazz concerts by the water, or browzing the shops at Las Olas. Last week my husband and I ventured off into the east side of Las Olas, the less poshy area where you will find consignment stores, newspaper cafe's, and barber shops that provide their male clientele with magazines that I cannot describe on this blog. We came across an tiny little bungalo that had been converted into a store space. The African art in the window sparked the interest of my husband who has a dream of exploring this continent one day (why enjoy a day on the beach in the Riveria when you can be chased and eaten by a lion, I guess I don't have to explain in more detail where I stant on this choice vacation destination). We walked in, I browzed at a distance from all the objects on display since my greatest fear is to bump into a fertility statue. The owner, a Swiss woman in her sixties who greeted us as though we were long lost relatives struck up a conversation with my husband and they talked for two hours while I stood in the middle of the store paralyzed with fear that I would be jinxed by the dozen or so fertility statues that stared at me with the eyes that said, "you're skrewed". The owner described all her crazy adventures of living in Kenya for twenty years. She was dying to tell the story of her life and my husband being the kind, friendly, good natured boy he is stood there getting sucked into becoming an outlet for someone's loneliness. The poor man always seems to be the victim of this type of situation.

But of course on a day that I could be enjoying the perfect Florida Fall weather, I'm home struggling to concentrate on preparing for my final exam, sometimes finding myself staring at my notebook fantasizing about my usual night in shining armor who tells me that I don't have to work and allows me to go shopping all day. So I thought that maybe going to Barnes and Noble to study in the cafe would force me to do my work but to no avail I was faced with a little table sign that had a picture of their latest treat, the double chocolate cup cake with light chocolate frosting. All I did was exchange one fantasy for another and after 45 minutes thinking of how this cupcake would send my palate into bliss I decided to go back home.

I didn't realize how my life was very different by school the past six months and how difficult it is to re-adjust to being home. Even the dog feels as though I'm invading her space and interupting her concentration of guarding the house. But Hopefully I'll be able to finish the two exams I have to take quickly so I can get out and get to work and in the off time continue to do my writing.

Finishing one crazy adventure has left my spirit yearning for another. What will it be next? I told my husband the other day that I needed a change. He then signed us up for Salsa lessons and our first lesson is tonight. I was hoping for a trip to Australia but oh well.

take care all,

me again,

please excuse the poor spelling and grammer.

well, at least my KNIGHT in shining armour always does.

take care all,

Brian, well done for setting up the link to view "Dancing with the Stars". It's a great opportunity for Paul's OS fans to sneak a peak.

I'll try to continue my weekly report for those who can't make the link work.

Mary, I'm also of the opinion that we agree to take the test on. In fact, I have a memory of this.
Learning to rely solely on your own resources can be a difficult thing to do, although I've often had the opposite problem, or so it seems to me.

Lately, I'm constantly reminded of how many of my effort seem to go right down to the wire.
It really eems that any initiatives just "scrape it in", but give the outward appearance of being completely and comfortably successful.
There was a turning point in my life, just a couple of years ago, when I quite passionately decided not to take defeat. (OK, I actually, in my mind, told a certain person and all of the negativity that followed to "get fucked"). I was angry and refused to accept any more unjustified malice or cruelty, or to be made to feel second rate, invalid, or to be a victim of any kind. The rules of engagement had changed and I was no longer defenseless.
Literally moments later, a sequence of events started to unfold that would eventually have a positive, liberating, and permanently significant impact on my life.

Sometimes all it takes is a decision to change the path. Eventually, it may work and in unexpected ways.

Stay well.

Peter

Brian, It worked !!! Thank you so much !!

Paul, you looked great ! very handsome !! You are doing a smashing job !!

Brian , it's noce to know you care so much about all of us to do this for us each week. It is very very very much appreciated. Thank you so very much. I have been trying to download Aussie tv but thus far have only gotten the news or Aussie music. Thanks again!!!!!!!

Julie, good luck on your finals. I would die if Tom signed us up for dance lessons. I WOULD LOVE IT. No chance he would ever do that, though.

Love to all on the corner.

Kelly

Okay, I'm gonna have to try again, Brian, what with everyone raving about being able to access the site. Y'know if I had a million bucks, I would hire my own team of I.T. people to handle computer stuff for me. Don't get me wrong. I love computers. I'm just not, well, self sufficient with regard to them. Yeah, Grandma Mil, this flu shot business is ridiculous. I'm HOPING my having had what was probably the flu will afford me some protection. Julie, I had a laugh re your dog acting like you were invading her space. My dog ALWAYS acts like that when I get into "my" bed which the dog is absolutely convinced is his bed. He's a 100 lb lab and he snores! xoxo to all. Jennifer

This week's "Dancing with the Stars":
(through my eyes)

WARM is the word for this week.
Paul seems to be warming to the task of commenter/judge, and the audience appears to be warming to him, i.e. his current popularity seems to be benefiting greatly from the exposure.
Mind you, he appeared to be extremely popular right from the start, so this is all bonus.
He also looks to be having fun, and the audience likes that.

Paul's, phrasing, diction and vocal projection has been of an exceptional standard.
He fits the part very well. He also displays a high standard of professionalism and has loads of credibility.

Well done, Paul.

Peter

Peter, thanks for the update on the show. It all sounds really promising for Paul.

Re: your last post - The feeling of just 'scraping it in' may be just an indication that you are dealing with the struggle in a real and experiential way. You've lived it.

Your decision to deliberately free yourself in that way must have been a very empowering experience. I can understand why it led to a turning point for you. Carrying a burden that does not essentially belong to you can weigh you down in an insidious and debilitating way.

With regards to the memory that you spoke of, I'm intrigued and am wondering just how accessible it was. Was it triggered consciously or unconsciously?

Julie, best of luck with your exams.

Paul, congratulations on another successful show.

Love to all,
Mary

Hello,
It is I lizee. I took a "leave of absence (rather short one) because my family is what you would call falling apart.My parents divorced when I was 7 and I have been scared for life.(my dad committed adultry) and the family was split in two and yet my mom kept in touch with my dads brother (manuel) and his wife (my aunt Lilly). And now my aunt and uncle are getting divorced.
And my grandmother is getting worse with her sickness by the day and my little sister is growing up and im not there for her (she lives in miami) and I have a choice to live with my mom or my dad. And yet my mother would be heart-broken if I left. And thats the sum of what going on right now.But the reason im writing is to tell you about today. Today was one of the most heart-waming days of my life. To make a long story less long,a chorus clasmate had affended the entire fifth period and so my teacher called a "Pow Wow".
This is where everyone gets in a circle and everybody gives an update on there life and any comments they had to say good or bad. I looked at what I was going through and what my classmates were going through and I felt so selfish that I was just thinking about "my" family and how bad "my"life is right now. A good number of my friends have alot worse situations than I. And I was shutting them out because of what I was going through. And today I just figured this, that its normal for things to get crappy (sorry for the language). But its no reason to shut the world (and your friends especially) out. And that you cant just run away from them. You have to look at the positives and make the best out of the situation; not run away or sit in your room pittying yourself. Today in this "Pow Wow" I cried, I cried the most I have ever; almost as much as when my dad left;and not because of how life is not good right now I cried because of great life is, especially if you have friends like mine. I barely even understand what I just said but theres a point in there. And today I realized how thankful I should be for all that I have. I have famliy who may not be so good ight now but they love me. I have a mother and three sisters who would do anything for me. And I have friends who I know will always be there for me. And I have Pauls Corner. I know I havent been here that long but its meant alot to me. THANK YOU!!
Love always
--lizee--

"de-lurking" briefly to say quick flyby "hi" to PC gang.

the show sounds interesting and fun, Paul. would love to catch a glimpse somehow..glad you're enjoying yourself.

I really liked Kelly's post.

Big Hugz to G. Mil...been thinking about you, and wondering how FIF is coming along. *grinn*

Hi to Inn, Sally, lady Dhi, Peter and all...and I've been gone so long I don't know many of the folks here now..so "hello."

Katalina of the rumbling grumbling lava- soon to be tumbling (St. Helen's)..State..latte luv!

anyone tried a pumpkin ale in one of those beer soups???

I think they're kind of good.

Kat

Lizzie,

You have realized what takes so many of us so many years to figure out, you are never alone !
Love your family as much as they love you and accept them for who they are and what they bring to you as a person. That's all anyone can do in life. It is refreshing to see a young person actuall appreciate the good things in life and not mourn for what they feel they are missing or lacking in life. I like your attitude!!

Lots of love,
Kelly

Just FYI everyone--Brian was kind enough to send me the second episode, and I'm working on converting to something you can watch with one click. I'm glad he was able to put it up sooner for some of the more geeky types. :)

Hi guys,
Hope you are all doing well, and those who were sick are on the mend.

Lizzie,
Today you had a wonderful day because you learned something, as Kelly said, that takes some people a lifetime to learn. I have a cousin who is almost fifty and I don't think he has learned to be grateful for the great family he has. :-) I'm glad you returned so soon and shared it with us. We enjoy having you in PC! :-)

Peter,
Thanks for the DWTS review. It's so nice of you to share with us. :-)

Warm welcome to Ken and the other Newbies to PC! Glad to have you join us. :-)

Grandma Mil,
Hope you are enjoying the nice weather. Here we have been getting very little sleep with the marathon Yankees/Red Sox games. All those extra innings are doing a number not only on the players, but the fans, too! Tonight I thought the Yanks were going to sew up the pennant, but the Red Sox are really desperate to win! Oh well, tomorrow we will finish off the job. And if the Yankees don't win, I think I will try out next year for the team. They can't do any worse with me playing, can they? LOL

Take care everyone,
Nertha

Lizzie,

When I'm faced with something in my life that I wish were different, I try to learn something from the experience.
In this way, it helps me to slowly grow into a better me.
(I think that I still have a lot of growing to do, but let's keep that our secret.)

Don't ever think that your concerns are not of value. Each person has their own reality. We can't compare our own situation to someone else's and conclude that things are not as bad for us. There is no real basis for comparison.
It all depends on how you, personally, are affected by it.
Meet the challenge, accept it, respect it, honour it, and then most importantly, move past it and know in your heart that you are a different, stronger person as a consequence.

Be well.

Peter

Paul,
How's the TV show rating?
Are the producers still stoked?
I see 10 put up their OZ idol special against it.

Peter

Dear Latte-Love Katalina,

So good to hear from you! "Follies" is coming along just fine! (Review my previous posts.)

We're about 3 1/2 months from the grand opening with the FIF gang in the audience, and I hope you are still planning on attending!

Lizee, we're glad you're back, and important lessons learned are rarely forgotten! In your case, love is the answer, and that seems to abound among your friends and family!

Nertha, even though Ellie is originally from the Bronx where the Yankees reign supreme in Yankee Stadium, I personally am rooting for the underdogs, (the Red Sox) for they have shown such courage and determination! The last game will be too much for this old lady to watch...be still my heart!

Peter, again thanks for the review. I will be looking forward to Cat helping us get online with one click to see the video.

Shalom and Love,

Gran Mil

The third episode of Dancing with the Stars is ready to download for the geeky types.

I’ve borrowed space on a friends Web account. (My own account is too small to host more than about 20 minutes of video)

I have put on this new server the complete episode 3 as well as the remainder of episode 2 that I couldn’t fit on my own account. The following links should start the download automatically.

Videos of Episode 2 which were already posted on my account last week are:
http://number98.com/out/DWTS02a.mp4
http://number98.com/out/DWTS02b.mp4
http://number98.com/out/DWTS02c.mp4

Videos of Episode 2 which have NOT been posted before are:
http://number98.com/out/DWTS02d.mp4
http://number98.com/out/DWTS02e.mp4
http://number98.com/out/DWTS02f.mp4
http://number98.com/out/DWTS02g.mp4
http://number98.com/out/DWTS02h.mp4
http://number98.com/out/DWTS02i.mp4
http://number98.com/out/DWTS02j.mp4

The new videos of Episode 3 are:
http://number98.com/out/DWTS03a.mp4
http://number98.com/out/DWTS03b.mp4
http://number98.com/out/DWTS03c.mp4
http://number98.com/out/DWTS03d.mp4
http://number98.com/out/DWTS03e.mp4
http://number98.com/out/DWTS03f.mp4
http://number98.com/out/DWTS03g.mp4
http://number98.com/out/DWTS03h.mp4
http://number98.com/out/DWTS03i.mp4
http://number98.com/out/DWTS03j.mp4

Enjoy.

Brian

SO FRUSTRATED!!!!!! I worked last night trying to get the darn download to work. I swear I did it EXACTLY like said, but it won't work!!!!!!! I get a broken Quicktime picture when I check with the sample!

I guess I don't get to see your cutie batootie face Paul and of course your wonderful wit and wisdom. Darn it anyways!!!!!!!!

No school for the next two days plus the weekend. Gonna enjoy my kids and be thankful for them (learmed that from you Paul). And I'm gonna decide if I should have the bone scan my oncologist is suggesting because of some shouldblade pain that is increasing. Sick of tests!

Take care all!!!

Jill

As I posted on my breast cancer board "Okay I scheduled the damm bone scan. Not happy about it, but it's done." I'm not worried about it, just tired of having to take time off from living my real life to see the inside of a hospital. It gets real old!

I did do something because I knew it would just fun! I got tickets to the Monster Truck Show! My 3 yr old Matthew LOVES Monster Truck with Grave Digger being his fav. Well, the show is coming to the Twin Cities in Dec., so I got tickets just because I knew it would make his eyes light up. So I'll be pulling out the ear plugs and the camera on Dec. 4th! Can't wait!!!!!!!

Jill - who will try again to get the download to work.

Jill, if you are an Apple Macintosh computer user, you have to change the file extension from .mp4 to .mpg4 and it will work using Quicktime, at least it did for me. Hope you can figure it out. I also wish you great wisdom in making the health related decision and also a complete recovery.

Thanks Brian for putting the video clips up, I enjoyed the first three that I did see looking forward to the new ones soon.

Lizzie, thanks for sharing your post, I know what you mean about suddenly getting that reality check and being able to see something positive amidst the challenges. I am truly sorry that you are going through such a difficult family situation. I can only imagine what that would be like. Be well and don't forget to take care of you and do positive and affirming things for yourself.

Peter, I enjoyed the review as always, so what's Paul's score this time? last time you left yourself some wiggle room with a 9 :)

Love to all!

Evelyn, How are you?
No more scores for Paul. It was a one-off.
I've put my judge's hat back on the rack where it belongs.

Mary, I'll tell all about the memory soon. It needs to be a little long & detailed to get the understanding across. It's also probably more than most people would find credible.

Something new. Do you remember my experiences with the three birds? Well, I went out walking/running yesterday afternoon on that same favourite stretch of road. I'm just starting back into it. My sorry body seems to be responding favourably, thus far. I started running continuously at the half-way turnaround point (5km). It's a solid uphill for 1km. About half way through the km, I saw an elderly man walking in an adjacent paddock. As I passed, he waved and called out: "keep it up!". Then, about 300m further up the road I passed another elderly man who said: "keep on going". Both these were said in a very firm and encouraging way. It gave me a real lift.
I have rarely ever passed anybody walking out there, let alone two men of 80 or so years.
I started to wonder if my birds are being replaced with elderly gentlemen.

Another message?

Have a good evening.

Peter

Peter - absolutely amazing! Makes you wonder.

Guess what else!!!! I GOT IT TO WORK!!!!!!!

I've been watching the show. Very cool. Very neat! Very well done Paul!!!!! It's so fun to see what we've been hearing about.

:)

Hello All,

Peter, I'm a firm believer in "signs". I think your birds may have transformed themselves to make sure you get the message they want you to recieve.

I also want to send my congrads to Paul on the success of the show. I'm sure other new projects are going to spring up from this one.

Unfortunatly I cannot download anything on my computer just yet so I'm going to ask Peter's most amazing body (no sorry body here) to maybe give another little report next week.

He's blushing isn't he...

Just kidding Peter.

Got to make dinner...

love to all,

Jill, It's good that you got it work! I'm glad that you enjoyed it.
This sort of exposure must surely open up new opportunities for Paul.

Julie, Sign or not, I'll take it as one!
You can't tell that I'm blushing since I'm wearing the purle suit.
It will be my pleasure to continue my comments on the show.

Peter

Brian,

Great job again! yahoo, I LOVE THIS SHOW !!!!!

I love everything about dancing shows and movies.

Peter, I don't think those two gentleman on the road were coincodence. But then I don't believe in coincodences. (I know I killed that spelling!)
If it made you think of your sister, than that was her way of saying, HEY, I'M RIGHT HERE!

Paul,

Tough words for your former co-star! True but harsh! I am sure he takes it in a humorous way.
You are there to judge and judge you will!!Maybe the audiance didn't realized you two had worked together before and you have a laid back relationship with him to do that. It was nice to see someone set it straight with him. He is great for a big guy, but should be "putting it out" more. I really enjoy the show. Bravo to you!! I enjoy your colorful judging. You spice up the show!

Love to all

Kelly

Lizzie, I would love to have been able to figure something like this out at your age! Being aware of this will stand to you in so many situations in the years ahead. I'm sorry that things are difficult for you at the moment. It's really hard to go through something like this, but believe it or not, when you do come through it, you will be able to look back and see how much it helped you to grow stronger and wiser. As long as you have people in your life who love you, everything will be okay.

Hi Katalina! It's great to hear from you.

Brian, thanks again for all the effort involved with this. And thanks Cat for following up on it.

Peter, let's just say it won't surprise me if you have a third encounter like this at some point. It must be a good feeling to have a physical place that gives spiritual comfort and insight. I do have places like this but the feelings/messages would not be as clear as this. This is a good thing. You are lucky. By the way, does this road run through trees at any point? Whenever you talk about it, I always get an image of a narrow road running through trees. As for the running - yes, keep going and enjoy. I hope the progress continues.

No worries about the memory. The fact that you experienced it is enough to keep me thinking for the moment.

Love to all,
Mary

I love you peoples!!
You guys made me cry.........again. As of now im looking at things from the positive side and not pittying myself. My mom told me she "discovered" what I did a couple years ago when she got really involved with God, and that I was lucky to "discover" it at my age.
In other news--
Brian-
I cant get this stupid computer to cooperate with me. Its very frustrating. Well considering this computer is older than........well its just old and im going to keep trying.
To all--
In a week and a half I will be auditioning the second part of my all-state event. Im very excited,and yet nervous. I have 7 pieces of music to learn and three of them are about 24 pages long and in languages I never knew exsisted so please pray for me.
Thank you all again.
--My love for forever and a day--
Elizabeth A. Ramirez
(Question: What are Pauls daughters names?)

Lizzie - just wanted to drop you a note to send you (((hugs))). It's tough for anyone to see beyond what is around you and then take that knowledge and put it in your heart. What a gift you have been given to receive that knowledge and learn it at your age. A few posts back you told me to ask God for guidence. That is what I do each day I open my eyes. With the my faith in the Lord I wouldn't have the life I've been given. He is my compass, my light my all. I've been listening to Casting Crowns a lot lately and am comforted by the words "the voice of truth tells me a different story, the voice of truth says do not be afraid." It reminds me, that no matter where my life leads, I need not fear if I look to God as I walk. This doesn't mean I don't have down days, but it does mean that even in those days I know where my life lays.

Hope I didn't offend anyone with my thoughts. Forgive me if I have.

Take care and now I should sleep. Unfortunately the couch is calling my name again. Not sleeping again. I could see myself becoming an achoholic (man I can't spell tonight!!!) on wine as a way to help me sleep! I won't, but I could see how it could happen.

Love to all at PC. Good night.

Jill

Kelly, No, I was not thinking of my sister at all.
I seem to be focused more on myself lately, but in a good way. I feel as though I am becoming more in touch with myself, and in doing so, becoming more in touch with all things around me.

Mary,
Virtually the entire route is tree-lined!
There are some huge pine trees planted very densely over about 1km of the route.
Yes, the road is fairly narrow and feels more that way by virtue of the cloistereing effect of the trees.
There is one spot, though, where the afternoon sun shines brightly on me, giving me a warm feeling right throughout.

Peter

Good Morning All,

I'm taking my exam 3pm today and finally I wont have to worry about it anymore. The jitters have gotten the best of me the past few weeks, bad cold, insomnia, and now today my stomach is doing twists and turns. I cannot wait for life to be back to normal. Or what is normal anyway?

I enjoyed school though, meeting and talking to different people, making new friends in a nice environment (rather than a boss yelling at me in an office environment) and having purpose when I wake up in the morning. Knowing what the day was to bring and facing the challenges of each of them. Being home, now feels like I'm in a nunery or rather a nunnery is far more exciting ( at least they have rosery beads to fuss about). It's quiet, the house is void of anyone, the dog stares at me, and the only excitement is when the mail arrives or the Fed Ex truck passes by (hoping maybe somebody was thinking of me and sending me something to suprise me). Or when the phone rings, I have this thought that it will be the phone call that will change my life in some big way, "Hello Julie, yes this is your knight in shining armour, I want you to leave your crazy scientist husband who wants you to have a career and give birth to five of his children and come and live with me in my 20,000 square foot mansion in the French West Indies, where all you have to do is supervise me when I lift weights at the gym, furnish my house with Pottery Barn Furniture and organize dinner parties for when I bring my collegues home. And of course, how could I forget, I'll fly you every week-end to Paris to shop for whatever you like..."

**WAKE UP**

So what was I saying, yes the adjustement of being home. Well I was thinking since after graduating from school I still have to wait almost two months to get my license so I was thinking of getting a part time job in a cafe just to get out of the house and as well as work on my writing. To many transitions, and I have experience a lot of them, can be very overwhelming. I have had plenty in the past few years. Thinking back to what Peter was saying in Purle suit, sometimes we have to look for signs that this is the path we're suppose to attempt. I remember when I was out on one accounting job last year for a firm in North Lauderdale I stopped to get a quick bite to eat (of course most companies in the U.S. find that employees who actually go out and enjoy their full lunch hour are not productive enough another stresser that made lunch not even relaxing). There was a woman who was driving through the parking lot and she stopped her car next to me and told me, "Honey, if you don't get on board now, you're going to miss the train" A few minutes later she told me that she was looking for new recruits for her church and I thanked her but said I was not interested, but regardless I took it as a serious sign. I hated working on computers,unless I was writing, I hated cubicles, I hated spreadsheets, I hated morning traffic, and what is considered a normal way of working in AMerica was depressing me to the point that nothing had brought joy to my life.

then I took the leap and decided to attempt at changing things.

but it's true that once you make one daring change other issues are in line waiting for a change also. Its not just a one time deal to make a change in your life, its continous and I can understand how it can be stressfull and frightning. But that is life, we have to do it. But at the same time we need to be good to ourselves, take an issues break, and enjoy the birds that sing outside the window, the dog who stares, and yelling at telle-marketers who turn out not to be a knight in shining armour.

take care all,

Beautifully said Julie and completey true. Maybe that's why it's easier to just not change that one thing. You know it's gonna put the wheels in motion. What courage it took to do what you did. I send you my congrats and awe.

Take care

Jill

Peter, in my mind's eye, I see just a short stretch of road. On either side is the type of forest that is found in abundance near here - pine. The ground under the trees is covered in old pine leaves so it is a light brownish colour. The road is flat but ahead there is an incline. And although it is dark, it is not gloomy. It's just that the trees are blocking the sunlight which I can almost feel is shining brightly above them.

There is a long drive through the mountains near where I live that we love. It is isolated and runs through bogland and forests. Maybe what I'm doing is transplanting your special place to one of mine! Or maybe the energy of the place is strong enough to come through your words. Eitherways, I like the fact that I can place you there in my mind. I love the idea of the sunlight waiting in that spot to recharge you.

One more thing, do you run/walk in silence or do you listen to music when you are there?

Julie, this sounds like the chance to draw your breath before you take off into the adventure! It must be a lovely feeling, thinking the possibilities are all out there waiting for you. I hope the exam went really well for you.

Hello and love to all reading here tonight.

Mary

Julie, Very nicely expressed.
Finding the direction that is right for us can be challenging. I tend to believe that we make it harder by not allowing ourselves to recognise what's in front of us, and what we really need, rather than what we think we need, or what we feel we are duty bound to follow. One way or another, this society deflects our attention to what it wants, rather than what is right for us.
It's sometimes really hard to know what is best for ourselves and for those we love. Following our heart, but not losing our head might be a good way, I think.

I truly hope you did well in the exam. This looks set to be the start of something new, exciting and fulfilling. Best wishes.

Mary, Sounds fairly similar in physical layout. The spirit is definitely there.
I don't carry a walkman when I'm out.
I prefer to "feel" the silence, or create my own music in my head, that is, I play a song in my mind (sub-vocally of course, I don't want to scare the birds), as I make my way. The selection of music suits my mood, but it's normally very up-tempo stuff, sometimes a just a little bit angry, if you know what I mean.

One of my favourite exercise tracks is "King of the Mountain" by Midnight Oil. I seem to remember that it was voted "Best aerobics track" in 1995. It's great for exercise. Lots of fun and it has a very loud and excited feeling about it. The lead singer of that band is a man named Peter Garrett. He's also a very active and well known conservationist. Coincidentally, he lives along my favourite running route, right near where I saw the two old men. Mind you, I had been running along that road for quite a few years before he moved there.

It's time for me to get stuck back into my work. I've loads to do.
Have a terrific weekend, everyone.

Peter

Thanks Peter,

By the way I passed my exam. I'm relieved and tonight I think I'll celebrate and order a pizza and rent SB. lol

take care all,

Hurrah, Julie, for passing your exam! We knew you would do it!! Maybe Ellie and I will order TWO pizzas and watch SB TWICE!

Paul would probably suggest we raise a mug of Coopers in your honor, but we're too old to drink!

Shalom and Love,

Gran Mil

Julie,

Are you tapping into my life? I so understand what you are saying. That's how I have been feeling about my job, and life. Just last week I actually pulled my self asside and made time for me. I just sat there and and asked myself (literally) how many more years could I go not taking care of myself. how many more years could I go selfless on this planet. I always do fro everyone else and think of everyone BUT me. I finally woke up and smelled the coffee. I sat my family down and told them that I was going to start being selective with my time. I actually said selfish, although it is not selfish, it is a word they will comprehend better. I explained I was taking time for me, for a change. I stopped doing all the little things that make such a huge difference. NOt because I didn't feel like doing them, but because I want all of them to start thinking of me for a change. It was rough the first few days. But after the intial shock, they got used to me not filling in the blanks all the time, and started taking more care of themselves, or went without.

I actually sent my resume out to a vet office this week that is hiring for vet tech. I explained in my cover letter my desire and passion for animals and hopefully they will give me a shot.

I sat my boss down at work last week and told her I felt like I was drowning, and I just didn't want to feel this way anymore. (actually she caught me working a hour overtime Friday and we are not allowed to work over (i was off the clock so i wasnt getting paid, I just wanted to get done) she got mad at me and said I work to hard. She basically took the burden off me to be perfect. she said that she didn't careif I was current in my work or not as long as things got done that were urgent. She said to do what I could and she knew I would eventually be above water again. She complimented me on my many years of hard work and told me to be a little lazy and "care less" and not let the stress get me. She knows I hate my job and has known for years. (we are very open and see each other outside work as our boys compete in sports against each other) You know what happened? I felt so much better at work, that I suddenly became more organized and I suddenly got all caught up on the crap I could never seem to get done before. I got organized. I figured it was ok this week to not be done and I have been taking my time. How can I get so much more done when I am taking my time? Wouldn't I be more productive going at 100 mles per hour? I gues not. I may be done with my cases today but at tleast the desk is clean and neat. I feel good about that. If the vets office calls, they call. I am not holding my breath, but hoping.

funny, my family is actually trying to do things for me now and take care of me every once in a while, now I am being selfish, they care more about me. It does feel better not caring everyones burdens with me, I am now letting them carry thier own burdens for a change, I am still there to pick them up when they fall, but I am finding they are handling them all much better than I ever thought. I should have done this a long time ago. I really took too much onto myself and onto my spirit. I think my kids are groing up more, too. Tom is still rebelling but he will get there, as well. He doesn't have a choice !! I dictate my journey, no one else and today I dictated to crawl back in bed after getting the kids up. ( Ton sked what I was doing, and I said, gonig back to bed, make sure the kids are getting ready before you leave the house). Not a word came out of his mouth but, OK. I AM WOMAN . Of course I got up 2 minutes later to make sure myself they were getting ready, but it's a start. I DEMAND RESPECT !!!

Clay had his last football game last night, they lost. Clay had a stupendous game. He caused 2 fumbles from the other team and recovered one of them. He had several solo takles and played wonderfully! Although he was very emotional the season was over, he is exploring his options for athletic events he can join to stay in shape for baseball. (he decided not to wrestle this year)

Well sorry for the long post. It's all Julie's fault , she lit a fire under my butt . : )

Love to all,

Kelly

Good Morning,

Gosh I'm on a lot the past twenty four hours. Sorry Paul but after this post I wont take up too much space and let others have some room.

Kelly, you're post is very inspiring to me. Yes speaking up is what liberates us and allows us to...be happy? Its easier said than done but in the end it feels good. Yes indeed. The kids are old enough to carry responcibility which they should be learning at this point and you deserve to have your own life as well as they do. It's the best thing you can do for you and your family. When you're happy, the lot will feel just as good. Selfishness can be a wonderful contributor.I applaud you!

In school we studied a little on Chinese Medicine and also Ayurveda (from India) and in Ayurveda what they believe is that when they examine the Chakras (energy spots on the body) the Throat Chakra has to do with the importance of speech. If someone has problems with that area it is believed that person will have throat problems. I was really struck by that and wanted to share it with all of you.

Thanks for the hurray Millie! Maybe we should get together order a pizza a watch SB to celebrate.

Take care all!

Well, this is what I get for staying away so long, I'm very behind. Hello to Lizzie..sorry I didn't welcome you sooner. Big hi and HUGZ to my Katalina Babay! I haven't been on Yahoo much..I must make a better effort. Hi Granny Mil, Dhi (you ole' farmer you)Julie, Mary, Jill, Kelly (sorry about Clay's last game, but I'm very glad to hear you are delegating your work).
Dear Peter I haven't heard Tiny Dancer yet but the next time I do you know I will be thinking of you! Our Paul, so happy to know you have something else going on. I'd love to see it and thanks so much to Brian for making it possible for us (except me..my computer is learning disabled and I just can't seem to get it to play those files) Must rush away..I'm out of milk and must re-supply before the kids get home.
Peace, Inn

HI!!
How is everyone!?!?
Well im mixed as of right now. I had a fight with my mother. For the past seven years shes been in-and-out of relationships and this guy shes with now......its not that I dont like him it just shes a different person now. Shes staying out late shes wearing clothes that "he" likes her to wear and she hasnt spent quality time with my sisters and I unless "he" can come. Well maybe im over-reacting, I hate seeing my mom with another man thats not my dad and vise versa. I dont know.
In good news--
Now I dont want anyone to freak like my sisters did when I say(write-you know what I mean) this.
Im trying for my schools wrestling team.
ok now you can scream. (aaaahhhh) I was thinking about it and I really want to try it, who knows I could be good at it could and I royaly stink. Its another challenge for me. Oh and im trying for my schools flag-foot-ball team. (Ahhhhh)
My Parents are worried about the flag football because I broke my finger last year playing football.When I went to catch the ball some how the ball tipped my left index finger and the crease of my finger split open.I broke my finger in two places and I got stitches because of my crease. It hurt and it took longer to heal because I kind of played when I wasnt supposed to. But yeah. You know how mothers get when their children get hurt, my mom cried more than I did. SO from then on my mom became even more worried. My dad was actually proud of me. "Thats my girl" is what he said when he heard.
OOOOOOOOHHHHH!!!
And one more thing.Speaking of chanllenges. My birthday is in February. ANd my sisters are allready thinking about it. My sisters are going to look around and try to find somewhere where I can take dance. I screamed so loud when I heard. I have never danced in my life. I swear I have two left feet but im sooooo excited.(Gran Mill do you know anyplace)
OK well I thinks thats all for today..........hmmm yup!
OOOOHHHHHH!!!!
nope just kidding!!=)
--lizee--

Paul, finally two versions of German Beer soup recipes that you asked for. The first seems to be the sweeter kind, the latter the heartier kind. I know it's kind of late, but I'm insanely busy these days, better late than never.

Biersuppe mit Schneeklößchen (Beer soup with beaten egg white dumplings)

Beer soup:
500 ml water
1 cinnamon stick
2 packages Vanilla sauce powder
75 g sugar
4 tablespoons cold water
250 ml light coloured beer
250 ml dark beer
1 egg yolk
2 tablespoons cold water
lemon juice
sugar

Bring water with the cinnamon stick to boil.
Mix vanilla sauce powder and sugar and add 4 tablespoons of cold water and mix until it has turned into a smooth thick paste. Add to the boiling water and remove from heat after the mixture reached boiling point.
Add the light and dark beer and heat up (do not bring to a boil) and then remove the cinnamon stick.
Mix the egg yolk with the cold water and blend into the soup.
Add lemon juice and sugar to taste.

Schneeklößchen
1 egg white
2 1/2 teaspoons sugar

Bring water to boil in a medium sized pot.
Beat the egg whites until they are stiff. Add the sugar and continue beating until stiff.
Taking two teaspoons, form little dumplings and put them into the boiling water. Cover with the lid and let them cook for 5 minutes in the water then add on top of the beer soup and serve immediately.

Biersuppe mit Sauerkraut (Beer soup with sauerkraut)

250 g sauerkraut
0,5 l meet broth
0,5 l Weißbier
1 large onion
some margarine
6-8 slices bacon
salt
cayenne pepper
sour cream (or crème fraîche)
warm rolls

Slowly cook the sauerkraut in the meat broth and the beer for about an hour. Sauté the finely chopped onions in the margarine and add to the sauerkraut. Sauté the bacon slices and add to the sauerkraut. Add salt, cayenne pepper to taste and serve very hot. Serve with warm rolls and sour cream.

Love, Evelyn

Paul, finally two versions of German Beer soup recipes that you asked for. The first seems to be the sweeter kind, the latter the heartier kind. I know it's kind of late, but I'm insanely busy these days, better late than never.

Biersuppe mit Schneeklößchen (Beer soup with beaten egg white dumplings)

Beer soup:
500 ml water
1 cinnamon stick
2 packages Vanilla sauce powder
75 g sugar
4 tablespoons cold water
250 ml light coloured beer
250 ml dark beer
1 egg yolk
2 tablespoons cold water
lemon juice
sugar

Bring water with the cinnamon stick to boil.
Mix vanilla sauce powder and sugar and add 4 tablespoons of cold water and mix until it has turned into a smooth thick paste. Add to the boiling water and remove from heat after the mixture reached boiling point.
Add the light and dark beer and heat up (do not bring to a boil) and then remove the cinnamon stick.
Mix the egg yolk with the cold water and blend into the soup.
Add lemon juice and sugar to taste.

Schneeklößchen
1 egg white
2 1/2 teaspoons sugar

Bring water to boil in a medium sized pot.
Beat the egg whites until they are stiff. Add the sugar and continue beating until stiff.
Taking two teaspoons, form little dumplings and put them into the boiling water. Cover with the lid and let them cook for 5 minutes in the water then add on top of the beer soup and serve immediately.

Biersuppe mit Sauerkraut (Beer soup with sauerkraut)

250 g sauerkraut
0,5 l meet broth
0,5 l Weißbier
1 large onion
some margarine
6-8 slices bacon
salt
cayenne pepper
sour cream (or crème fraîche)
warm rolls

Slowly cook the sauerkraut in the meat broth and the beer for about an hour. Sauté the finely chopped onions in the margarine and add to the sauerkraut. Sauté the bacon slices and add to the sauerkraut. Add salt, cayenne pepper to taste and serve very hot. Serve with warm rolls and sour cream.

Love, Evelyn

Sorry, but why the heck did it post it twice???
Hello everyone, will read the rest of the post soon. I have a three year old and his Mum staying with me right now, they are asleep, but that means that I have to get up at an ungodly early hour on Sunday morning to make waffles for him--I can take a hint. He gave me a waffle maker for my birthday :-)