Dealing with Difficult People. Mind Your Steps. Update.

For “Scripture Sunday”:

Dealing with Difficult People

“They’re everywhere: on the road, at work, in the grocery line, at church and even in our own family. How can we respond to difficult people in a godly way?

When we think of difficult personality types, we can be quick to attach a label: bossy, rude, know-it-all, phony, whiner, judgmental. These and other words are used to describe and categorize others. Perhaps these labels have even been used on us.

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) lists some additional labels that professional health-care providers use: antisocial, obsessive-compulsive, narcissistic and passive-aggressive, to name a few.

Unfortunately, while they may be helpful in terms of treatment, labels can also prevent us from truly understanding individuals.

See the human being

People are more than the labels attached to them. Labels can keep us from truly getting to know a person and finding out how unique and complex he or she really is. No two people are alike, nor are they motivated or shaped by the same things.

Imagine that each person you come in contact with is a puzzle for you to put together. Usually when assembling a jigsaw puzzle you have all the pieces as well as a picture of what you are constructing. But what if you had the picture, but not all the pieces? What if you didn’t even know what pieces were missing or what to look for?

When therapists see new clients, they ask them lots of questions so they have as many pieces of their puzzle as possible. Therapists don’t want to assume anything, and they need to be able to put the difficult parts into a meaningful context. This helps them understand and empathize with the unique individuals these people have become.

In personal relationships, however, we are hampered by social norms and a person’s desire for privacy. What is acceptable in a professional setting becomes nosiness in any other.

So how do we truly get to know and appreciate someone—especially when that person is difficult to be around?

Live by the Golden Rule

We start by realizing there is One who already knows everything about each and every one of us. God sees the complete picture; He has all the pieces; and He truly understands us. His love and compassion for us are not defined by how easy we are to get along with. He loves us despite our difficult parts, and He sets us a beautiful example of how to do the same with others (Romans 5:6-8).

In Matthew 7:12 Jesus tells us to treat others the way we want to be treated, otherwise known as the Golden Rule. This is not always easy to do, because our natural tendency is to retaliate when we have been hurt by the words or actions of another. “Fair is fair,” we might tell ourselves.

But true Christianity is about rising above what our human nature wants to do. It is about living as Jesus lived, for He came to show us a better way. That’s why He shared these words:

“You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. If anyone wants to sue you and take away your tunic, let him have your cloak also. And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two. Give to him who asks you, and from him who wants to borrow from you do not turn away” (Matthew 5:38-42).

This is not to say God expects us to allow someone to abuse or beat on us, or to allow someone to take our possessions. Rather, He is addressing the human desire to retaliate or take revenge. As much as we might think it is right to “make things even” with someone who hurt us, that is not what we are expected to do. Instead, we are instructed to leave the vengeance to God, who always knows exactly what is best (Romans 12:19).

Give to others what they DON’T deserve

If God were to give us what we deserve, what would we receive? Since we are all sinners, we are all deserving of death (Romans 6:23). Yet God, in His infinite love, paid the price of our sins through the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus Christ. He gives each of us an opportunity to have eternal life at the perfect time.

God loves all of us, and He expects us to treat others as He treats us. That’s why He says, “Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, and pray for those who spitefully use you” (Luke 6:27-28, emphasis added throughout).

With God’s help, these four action steps—love, do good, bless and pray—are possible, no matter how challenging someone may be.

Don’t antagonize

Each of us has “trigger points” that, when set off, can and will bring out the worst in us. When we understand this about someone else, we should avoid pushing his or her “buttons.” Don’t get into pointless debates or arguments or bring up inflammatory subjects (see 2 Timothy 2:23).

We should choose our words carefully.

Everyone knows that you don’t throw gasoline on a fire to put it out—you’ll have an explosion or a raging inferno on your hands! Yet how many times do we inflame a situation with our words? Proverbs 15:1 says, “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” And in Romans 12:18 Paul writes, “If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.”

Change the subject as necessary. If that doesn’t work, perhaps you can politely excuse yourself from the conversation. At other times it may be necessary to be frank and say, “Let’s talk about something else.”

Look in the mirror

Astute observers have noted that we are all somebody else’s difficult person at least occasionally.

Sometimes the reason people rub us the wrong way can be found by simply taking a good look at ourselves and our own motivations. Some people may, at least outwardly, remind us of past hurts, which can dredge up painful memories. It’s easy to be defensive, until we stop and ask ourselves why we are reacting in that way. In doing so, we may gain some insight about ourselves that will help us in the future.

Look for the best in everyone

Remember, you don’t have all the pieces to this person’s puzzle. There are things about this person you don’t know and/or don’t understand. But God does. He can help you be kind and patient until you discover things to appreciate about the individual.

In 1 Corinthians 13:4 we read that love is patient and kind. We are not naturally that way, but God is. Go to Him in prayer and ask for Him to reveal to you what you need to know—to help you be around this person, to treat him or her with the patience and kindness with which God treats each of us.

Be realistic

Some people are truly damaged, and that damage often spills over and touches others. It may be that their wounds will not be healed in this lifetime, which means that we have to accept the reality and the limitations of who they are.

But though they may never change, we can, by changing our outlook toward them and our way of responding. We should think about the way we usually interact with them. Is there a different, gentler way to respond? Can we replace defensiveness with compassion? Sometimes being polite may be the best we can do, but that’s better than retaliation. Politeness goes a long way in getting along with difficult people.

When all else fails, walk away

There comes a time when it’s necessary to distance ourselves from some people—those who for whatever reason always want to antagonize or even harm you. Minimal and even no contact may be the best option in certain situations. God doesn’t expect us to stay in abusive relationships (Proverbs 22:24; also see our article “Toxic Friendships?”).

He does, however, want us to develop His mind to help us to interact with everyone in a more godly manner in the future.

People can be difficult, no doubt, and how they live may tend to bring out some of the worst in us. We need to remember that our natural reaction is not always the best way to respond. God gave us a better way—a kinder, more patient, loving way—to view and interact with others. It’s His way, and it needs to become ours as well.

For additional information about learning to treat others more as God does, see “How to Be a Good Neighbor” and the articles in our section “The Fruit of the Spirit.” From: https://lifehopeandtruth.com/relationships/friendship/dealing-with-difficult-people/

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Mind Your Steps, Part 1

“How much do you think about the steps you take? What we do can have long term implications.

Transcript of YouTube: https://youtu.be/QEX67TX_rUg

[Darris McNeely] “If you see right here, I’ve not just swollen my leg and grown bigger, but I’ve actually injured my leg. I’ve torn a calf muscle. Six weeks of rehabilitation with this boot on, and a very very tender calf as I ripped the muscles in my calf. So I’m into a period of rehabilitation and it’s made me think a lot about every step I take. I have to be very careful to not step improperly, to put too much weight on my right leg. I can’t go up steps easily, I use a cane. And in all of this time, I have been rehabbing, and I have been very mindful about my steps.

Now, it’s got me to thinking about another spiritual application of this very thing. And that is how we are to be mindful about the steps of our life, in everything that we do everything we say, and the consequences of that. Because I have to be very careful now how I step. But you know what? You and I should be very careful with the actions we take, the steps we take with our life.

There’s a scripture in Psalm 17, beginning in verse 4, that talks about this. Psalms17:4-6, we can read, it says this, “Concerning the works of men, by the word of Your lips, I have kept away from the paths of the destroyer.” Because of God’s teaching, the Psalmist is saying, “I’ve kept my paths clean, right.” He says, “Uphold my steps in Your paths that my footsteps may not slip.” Great advice, praying to God. I have kept my paths from the destroyer and to God, he says, “Uphold my steps in Your paths that my footsteps may not slip. I have called upon You, for You will hear me, O God.”

It’s good advice. It’s a good prayer to me. You know, some decisions you and I make are lifelong. They have long term consequences. The job you take, the career you pursue, the person that you marry has lasting implications for the success and the happiness of your life. Get advice, get counsel, take God as your help in that.

Do what it says here to ask God to uphold your steps in His paths, that your footsteps may not slip. I’m thinking about every step that I take these days as I rehab my calf and just let it have the time to heal. Think about the steps that you take in your life and make sure that every one of them is sure.””  From: https://www.ucg.org/beyond-today/beyond-today-daily/mind-your-steps-part-1

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Update

I am getting to know my way around this little city, and it is so neat. Lots of antique shops and Victorian homes.  Wide tree lined roads which remind me of the historical homes in Galveston.  Also, still staying busy, so much, that I have lost some weight.  But I do walk more here, like going to the mail box, to the Community Room and laundry.   I am not scared to walk around here, it just feels safe. Still sorting my things out, donating more things, and taking more things to my storage in Navasota.  And still missing some things, which must have been put in my storage in Willis.  I am hoping to get there soon.  I just have to make up my mind to make the trip there and back with the sun hurting my eyes, especially on the way back driving into the sun, though wearing the big sunglasses the eye clinic gave me does help.

I don’t know why my eyes are so sensitive to the bright light, even the overhead lights bother me, so I have table lamps in strategic areas. The management said that the light bulbs must not be changed to lower wattage, they are energy efficient ones supplied by the light company.  Wendy, my daughter, came to visit and helped me put up room darkening shades in my living room and bedroom windows which are pummeled by the afternoon sun.  Thank goodness that I am in an “end” apartment so I have a another window on the side in my kitchen, or it would be like being in a cave.  My storm door feels like an oven in the afternoons, and I have to put on sunglasses every time I go outside, to stop the glare of the white concrete pathways.  Fortunately, my van is shaded by a big tree.

This was my fourth Sabbath at this church and another great service.   I made German Potato Salad, and we had an array of delectable dishes and a good feed. Our pastor, who is also a chaplain at a hospital in Houston, gave his sermon in the last of a series on the subject of grief. The five stages are: First there is Denial, then Anger, then Bargaining, then Depression, then Acceptance.  He is always smiling, though he sees a lot of that every day.

Car Unsunk! Plastic Pollution in Our Homes And Bodies. Johnson Space Center. Commonwealth of Independent States.

 

For "Summary Saturday", News, some new, some old:

How these Russians got a car out of the river!

"You got to hand it to them, they got the job done."

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GreatPacificGarbagePatch - Arlene Blum - Plastic Pollution In Our Homes

"Scientist Arlene Blum speaks about the connection between plastic pollution and flame retardants."

Dr. Oz even had a show about it this week:  "Is your sofa making you sick?"  http://www.doctoroz.com/episode/toxic-flame-retardants-your-home-right-now

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GreatPacificGarbagePatch - Stacy Malkan - Plastics Industry Makeover

"Stacy Malkan, the leader of the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, speaks about the connection between plastic pollution and cosmetics. There are toxins even in Johnson's Baby Shampoo!!"

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GreatPacificGarbagePatch - Ken Cook - Plastic Pollution in Our Bodies

"Ken Cook, president of EWG, speaks of the toxic chemicals leaching into our bodies from plastic containers, plastic packaging and plastic pollution."

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GreatPacificGarbagePatch - Ed Begley, Jr - Living a Sustainable Life

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An Unlikely Beginning For Johnson Space Center, By U.S. Sen. John Cornyn .Oct 29 2013

"You can’t judge a book by its cover. And if in 1961 you happened to be standing in the wind-battered cow pasture on the shores of Clear Lake, just southeast of downtown Houston, you could be forgiven for not believing that in a few short years, this would be the future home of an elite cadre of scientists and airmen, destined to leave this planet and set foot on another world.

This year marks the 50^th anniversary since NASA’s Johnson Space Center – originally named the Manned Spacecraft Center – opened its doors.  As recently told to the Houston Chronicle, the effort to land the nation’s premiere space center in Houston was not your typical application process.  But thanks to the foresight of a group of Houston businessmen and the deft political maneuvering of one powerful Texas politician, Space City was born.

Interestingly, it wasn’t the politician whose name the Center now bears.  Rather, it was longtime Houston Congressman Albert Thomas.  As NASA’s site selection committee contemplated Baton Rouge, Jacksonville, Tampa, and even San Francisco, Thomas used his influence on the House Appropriations Committee to bring NASA to Houston.

In the intervening years, Houston has become synonymous with humankind’s exploration of space.  As the home of Mission Control and the training facility for the Astronaut Corps, humanity’s progress into the vast unknown has, quite literally, been led by Texans.  From the days of Project Gemini, when San Antonio native Lt. Col. Ed White became the first American to perform a spacewalk, to the Apollo era, which brought mankind to a new world, and on through the Space Shuttle program and it’s enduring legacy, the International Space Station, Texans have pioneered the celestial frontier.

As anyone living in Clear Lake and the surrounding area knows, these remarkable men and women are not only explorers, scientists, and engineers at the tops of their fields: they are friends and neighbors, fellow congregants at churches, and parents cheering on the local little league team.  Over the last five decades, Houstonians have shared in the triumphs and tragedies that have befallen the NASA community.  The city rejoices with each safe return to Earth of its fellow Texans, and it grieves deeply when they are taken away by the ever-present dangers of spaceflight.

Americans of all ages look to NASA for inspiration.  We see in our astronauts the manifestation of the highest ideals of the American spirit: forging ahead into a new and dangerous frontier in the courageous pursuit of knowledge.  The achievements of the last 50 years have been breathtaking.  Now, as we move beyond the Space Shuttle program and into a new era of exploration, the world will once again look to Texas for its bold leadership into space." Sources: Houston Chronicle, NASA

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On This Day:

Soviet republics proclaim the Commonwealth of Independent States, Dec 21, 1991:

"In a final step signifying the dismemberment of the Soviet Union, 11 of the 12 Soviet republics declare that they are forming the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). Just a few days later, Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev announced he was stepping down from his position. The Soviet Union ceased to exist.

The 11 republics-Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, the Russian Federation, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, and Uzbekistan-signed an agreement creating the CIS, known as Russia.

Only Georgia, embroiled in a civil war, abstained from participation. Exactly what they created was open to debate. The CIS was not a new nation, but merely an "alliance" between independent states. The political meaning of the alliance was hazy. The independent states each took over the former Soviet government facilities within their borders.

The military side of the CIS was even more confusing. They agreed to sustain any arms agreements signed by the former Soviet Union. The former Soviet defense minister would retain control over the military until the CIS could agree on what to do with the nuclear weapons and conventional forces within their borders. Complicating the situation were terrific economic problems and outbreaks of ethnic violence in the new republics.

For Gorbachev, the announcement was the final signal that his power—and the existence of the Soviet Union—was at an end. Four days later, on Christmas Day, he announced his resignation."

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Yesterday:

As I was going to have lunch with my ex-daughter-in-law Becky, who has cancer again, I was busy all morning printing out all the info that I had gathered about the treatment she wants to get. Hyperthermia therapy, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hyperthermia_therapy .

We met at Bing's Asian Bistro, but found that they were closed for a special function, so we drove back into Willis, and went to the Mexican restaurant, "Los Pericos". (The Small Parrot or Parakeet)  Their food and service is always good. 

My granddaughter, Michelle, Becky's daughter, met us there, too. 

Becky was very interested when I showed her that The University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston is having clinical trials of Hyperthermia Cancer Therapy now.  And it isn't the only university doing that around here, either, there are more in Houston and Galveston.

Becky's little son, Karson was with her.  She is in good spirits for a young person with a terminal prognosis.   This last batch of chemo is taking a toll on her hair and body, such a shame.  We discussed what she was doing for her cancer, and exchanged other information about diet and remedies that we had gleaned from the internet.

All too soon, we each had to go our separate ways, after having a great day.

Arctic Ice. Veterans. Oyster Reefs. Libor Scandal In AK? Actos Side Effect. Rainbow Bridge. Energy Myths. Sea Turtle. Coal Mine In CO. New Amsterdam. Galveston Hurricane.

For “Summary Saturday”, News, Some New, Some Old:

Arctic sea ice just hit a record low. Here’s why it matters.

“The Arctic Ocean’s vast, frozen expanse of ice is rapidly vanishing. On Monday, scientists at the National Snow and Ice Data Center announced that the extent of sea ice in the Arctic had reached its lowest level since satellite measurements began, breaking the previous record in 2007. That’s particularly striking because the summer melting season still has about two more weeks to go.

The Arctic has lost more sea ice this year than at any time since satellite records began in 1979, Nasa says.

The sea ice extent at 26 August (white) is markedly different from the 1979-2000 average (orange line)

It’s clear that Arctic sea ice is now shriveling more quickly each year. And scientists say the melt has been driven by both global warming and other pollutants that humans have put into the atmosphere. So why does the disappearing sea ice actually matter? Partly it’s a sign of how quickly we’re heating the planet. Yet the vanishing sea ice can also have its own side effects, from warming up the Arctic further to unlocking once-frozen areas of the north for oil and gas exploration. Below is a rundown of what we know about Arctic sea ice and why it’s worth watching.”  More at: http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/ezra-klein/wp/2012/08/28/arctic-sea-ice-just-hit-a-record-low-heres-why-it-matters/

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War Veterans Recover at Brooke Army Medical Center

“More than 624,000 veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan have filed disability claims (both physical and mental), the Military Times reported in January and a recent ABC news report says that according to the Department of Veterans Affairs, there are 1,286 service members who are now amputees as a result of those two wars.”

Chief prosthetist John Fergason measures the residual limb of U.S. Army PFC. Heath Clemons, 21 from Cameron, MO, while fitting him for a leg prosthesis at the Center for the Intrepid (CFI) rehabilitation center at Brooke Army Medical Center (BAMC), Aug. 8, 2012. Clemons lost both his legs when he stepped on an improvised explosive device in Maiwant, Afghanistan, May 29, 2012. Thousands of U.S. military war wounded, most suffering from amputations, burns and functional limb loss in Afghanistan and previously in Iraq.  (John Moore/Getty Images)

The Iraq and Afghanistan wars have made the term IED (Improvised Explosive Device) a household term. IED injuries result in thousands of US military war wounded suffering from amputations, burns and functional limb loss. The vets spend months (and sometimes years) in outpatient care, many at the Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, TX. The BAMC comprises the Center for the Intrepid that is home to the largest inpatient medical facility in the Department of Defense. The hospital is the DOD's only burn center and Level 1 trauma center in the US. Getty Images photographer John Moore takes us inside the hospital, showing some of the wounded's steps to recovery. -- Paula Nelson (33 photos total) From: http://www.boston.com/bigpicture/2012/08/war_veterans_recover_at_brooke.html

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Group trying to save Galveston Bay's oyster reefs

"Galveston Bay produces oysters and shrimp and blue crabs more than any other place in the state of Texas," Galveston Bay Foundation President Bob Stokes said.   "Unfortunately, we had about 50 or 60 percent of our oyster reefs damaged or destroyed by the sediment that got stirred up from Hurricane Ike," Stokes said.

That meant big trouble for the bay's ecology. "The fact that they can filter up to 50 gallons of water per day for one individual oyster," said Matthew Abernathy with the Galveston Bay Foundation.  They are nature's filtration system, removing silt and contaminants from the water. They also serve as habitat for fish and invertebrates. But with more than half the reefs destroyed by Ike, something had to be done.

"The purpose of this project is to enhance and help reestablish healthy oyster reefs in Galveston Bay," Abernathy said.  Matthew Abernathy leads the restoration program through a process called oyster gardening. It begins here at Tommy's Restaurant and Oyster Bar in Clear Lake.  "We go through a bout 6,000 oysters a week," the restaurant's owner Tom Tollett said.  Tollett is the pearl of this project. He supports the program by recycling his shells.  "We take them and we put them in bins so that the Galveston Bay Foundation can come and pick the oysters up," he said.

The shells are transported to Texas City, where they sit in the sun for six months. The process is called sun bleaching. It removes unwanted bacteria and organisms from the shells. Then, they're bagged and prepped for gardening.  "And we take bags, mesh bags full of oyster shell like this and we hang it off of piers out here in the bay. And what it does is this provides a hard substrate for the oyster larvae to attach to," Abernathy said.  Young oysters develop on the recycled shells and when they're large enough, they're placed into the bay to repopulate the reefs.

"We want to bring life back to these oyster beds. We say these beds are ours. They actually belong to the state," Buddy Schultz said.  Nearly 20 bagged shells are hanging from Schultz's pier at Pelican Rest Marina. He's hoping the reefs in his area will show signs of life once again.

But there's one thing to keep in mind about these oysters.  "The oyster restoration projects and these near shore oyster reefs that we're working on in Galveston Bay are not for public consumption," Abernathy said.  These oysters are grown solely for the purpose of enhancing habitat creation, water quality and shoreline protection -- all for the benefits of improving this beautiful Texas gem called Galveston Bay.”   More and video at: http://abclocal.go.com/kfsn/story?section=news/local&id=8800688

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Alaska: the next Libor litigation frontier?

The aurora borealis is seen above residential homes along Osborne Road near Nome, Alaska March 10, 2012.

Credit: Reuters/Oscar Avellaneda-Cruz

(Reuters) - “The Libor scandal, which began in London with bankers accused of manipulating a key global interest rate, has reached the Alaskan wilderness.

Or at least that's the hope of New York plaintiffs' lawyer Brian Murray. He filed a lawsuit Wednesday on behalf of investors in Alaska - as well as investors in Wyoming, North Dakota and about 20 other states - that accuses banks of violating various state antitrust laws in allegedly rigging the London interbank offered rate.” More at: http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/08/13/us-libor-classactions-idUSBRE87C06120120813

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Bladder Cancer Not the Only Severe Actos Side Effect

“Hundreds of lawsuits have been filed against Takeda Pharmaceuticals alleging that extended usage of Actos leads to bladder cancer and tumors. A recent federal whistleblower lawsuit states that Actos also may be connected to suicide, schizophrenia, epilepsy and grand mal seizures. The Actos whistleblower lawsuit was filed by Dr. Helen Ge who worked for Takeda Pharmaceuticals.

Dr. Ge's lawsuit alleges that patients who took Actos had a much higher rate of bladder cancer, cardiovascular problems, suicide, schizophrenia, epilepsy and grand mal seizures when compared to similar drugs like Avandia. In addition, Dr. Ge's Actos lawsuit alleges that Takeda Pharmaceuticals repeatedly obstructed Actos connection to heart problems and multiple types of cancer (including bladder cancer.)”  From: http://www.topclassactions.com/lawsuit-settlements/prescription/1887-whistleblower-alleges-bladder-cancer-not-the-only-severe-actos-side-effect

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A Rainbow Turned to Stone, Rainbow Bridge

“Rainbow Bridge is the world's largest known natural bridge. The span has undoubtedly inspired people throughout time--from the neighboring American Indian tribes who consider Rainbow Bridge sacred, to the 300,000 people from around the world who visit it each year.
Please visit Rainbow Bridge in a spirit that honors and respects the cultures to whom it is sacred.”     Read More

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Top Ten Home Energy Myths

Source: www.energy.gov

“Some ideas are so widely held that they appear to bear little scrutiny or even a second thought. While often factual, such common wisdom can also be based on outdated or erroneous information such as old wives’ tales or urban legends.

Widespread misconceptions about home energy use can cost homeowners on their energy bills and lead to unnecessary home maintenance and reduced comfort. Ten common home energy myths that may be costing you, include the following:”      Rest of article at: http://members.questline.com/Article.aspx?articleID=15983&nl=12928”

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The Survival of the Sea Turtle

“Watch the miraculous journey of infant sea turtles as these tiny animals run the gauntlet of predators and harsh conditions. Then, in numbers, see how human behavior has made their tough lives even more challenging.” View full lesson on TED-Ed BETA: http://ed.ted.com/lessons/the-survival-of-the-sea-turtle

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Forest Service Reloads Assault On Colorado Roadless Area

Agency pushes lose-lose-lose-lose coal mine expansion

The Sunset Roadless Area.
(Photo: Ted Zukoski)

“Coal is dirty.

It’s the dirty fuel that gives us mercury in our lakes, acid rain in our skies, carbon pollution, leaky ash ponds, and scraped-off mountains and buried streams in Appalachia.

And just like the coal itself, Arch Coal’s proposed West Elk mine expansion into the Sunset Roadless Area in western Colorado will be a lose-lose-lose-lose proposition. Sadly, that doesn’t mean it’s going away.

The Forest Service is proposing to OK the mine’s expansion under the roadless area, a natural, rugged landscape of beaver ponds and aspen stands, lynx habitat and giant spruce trees, elk and deer habitat and dramatic scenery of the adjacent West Elk Wilderness.

To get at the coal under the roadless area, the mine says it will need to drill wells to release methane from the mine. Methane is a hazard to miners, but when released into the atmosphere, it’s a climate change-causing gas on steroids, with more than 20 times the heat trapping capacity of carbon dioxide.  Infrastructure to remove the methane will require bulldozing more than 6 miles of road and nearly 50 one-acre well-pads, cutting the heart out of the roadless area.

So, Loss No. 1: Natural lands in the Sunset Roadless Area……

Loss No. 2: Unnecessary methane pollution………

Which leads to Loss No. 3: Our money…..

But wasting America’s natural gas isn’t enough for Arch Coal. It wants a discount for mining the coal (a nearly $5 million cut in royalty payments), making this an even worse deal for taxpayers—Loss No. 4.”

Complete article at: http://earthjustice.org/blog/2012-june/forest-service-reloads-assault-on-colorado-roadless-area

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On This Day:

New Amsterdam becomes New York, Sep 8, 1664:

“Dutch Governor Peter Stuyvesant surrenders New Amsterdam, the capital of New Netherland, to an English naval squadron under Colonel Richard Nicolls. Stuyvesant had hoped to resist the English, but he was an unpopular ruler, and his Dutch subjects refused to rally around him. Following its capture, New Amsterdam's name was changed to New York, in honor of the Duke of York, who organized the mission.

The colony of New Netherland was established by the Dutch West India Company in 1624 and grew to encompass all of present-day New York City and parts of Long Island, Connecticut, and New Jersey. A successful Dutch settlement in the colony grew up on the southern tip of Manhattan Island and was christened New Amsterdam.

To legitimatize Dutch claims to New Amsterdam, Dutch governor Peter Minuit formally purchased Manhattan from the local tribe from which it derives it name in 1626. According to legend, the Manhattans--Indians of Algonquian linguistic stock--agreed to give up the island in exchange for trinkets valued at only $24. However, as they were ignorant of European customs of property and contracts, it was not long before the Manhattans came into armed conflict with the expanding Dutch settlement at New Amsterdam. Beginning in 1641, a protracted war was fought between the colonists and the Manhattans, which resulted in the death of more than 1,000 Indians and settlers.

In 1664, New Amsterdam passed to English control, and English and Dutch settlers lived together peacefully. In 1673, there was a short interruption of English rule when the Netherlands temporary regained the settlement. In 1674, New York was returned to the English, and in 1686 it became the first city in the colonies to receive a royal charter. After the American Revolution, it became the first capital of the United States.”

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Deadly hurricane batters Texas, Sep 8, 1900:

“One of the deadliest hurricanes in U.S. history hits Galveston, Texas, on this day in 1900, killing more than 6,000 people. The storm caused so much destruction on the Texas coast that reliable estimates of the number of victims are difficult to make. Some believe that as many as 12,000 people perished, which would make it the most deadly day in American history.

Galveston Island lies just off the Texas coast. It is long and narrow, about 28 miles long by 2 miles wide, and is barely above sea level. The harbor on the bay side of Galveston was a prime port with numerous rail connections. As a major hub for trade, thousands of people settled on the island at the end of the 19th century.

It was a Friday afternoon when the residents of Galveston first got an indication that a storm was imminent. For a few days the storm had been bearing down on the Texas coast, coming across the Gulf of Mexico from the Florida Keys. At the time, there was no reliable warning system in place for hurricanes; it was not until 1908 that ships began radioing the mainland about approaching storms.

The storm hit Galveston on Saturday, September 8, with sustained winds of at least 115 miles per hour; the town's wind gauge blew away so the wind speed may have been even higher. A Category 4 hurricane, the storm brought with it an enormous storm surge and, by 3 p.m., water had covered nearly the entire island. It came in waves that were 15 feet higher than the mean tide. At the Bolivar Point lighthouse, there was a report that salt water spray from the ocean reached a height of 115 feet. Buildings crumbled and fell from the force of the water and high winds ripped the roofs off of nearly every building in town. Many Galveston businesses and families had installed slate roofs after a serious 1885 fire and these roofs became flying weapons of destruction as the hurricane tossed them through the air.

The St. Mary's Orphanage collapsed and killed all the inhabitants. At the Ursuline Convent, 1,000 people gathered seeking shelter, but when a 10-foot retaining wall fell, the entire front part of the convent collapsed. Ships in the harbor were tossed into each other and some were later found 30 miles away. Survivors reported seeing corpses floating all over and around the island. Thousands died in Galveston and at least another 2,000 on the mainland coast also perished. Precise numbers will never be known, in part because thousands of bodies were disposed of in the Gulf of Mexico without being counted or identified. When Clara Barton of the Red Cross came to Galveston soon after the disaster she said, "It would be difficult to exaggerate the awful scene here."

Galveston began to rebuild almost immediately. On October 2, 1902, construction began on a massive protective sea wall. Two years later, the wall, 16 feet thick by 17 feet high and constructed of cement, stone and steel bars, was complete. By 1910, the population of Galveston had grown to 36,000. Thanks to the city's preparations, when a comparable storm hit in 1915, only eight people died.”

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FYI:

“The word "hurricane" comes from Hurican, the Carib god of evil. Hurricanes typically form in the tropical zones north and south of the equator. They can be hundreds of miles wide and last for several weeks as they move across the ocean. The Atlantic Ocean hurricane season runs from June through November.

In 1953, the U.S. National Weather Service, which tracks hurricanes and issues advisories, started giving storms female names in order to help scientists and the public follow them. Beginning in 1979, men's names were also used. The World Meteorological Organization assigns one name for each letter of the alphabet, with the exception of Q, U and Z. The lists of names are reused every six years; however, when a hurricane is especially deadly or costly its name is retired and a new name is added to the list. In 2006, "Katrina," along with four other names from the 2005 hurricane season, was taken out of service. Hurricane Katrina, which devastated New Orleans and the Gulf Coast states in August 2005, was the costliest natural disaster in U.S. history.”

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Yesterday:

After doing some more research about healthy food, tending to emails, phone calls and junk mail, I knew I had to get to get back to work on the cargo trailer drapes. I had been putting it off for too long.

That was when I realized what a task I had ahead of me to make them for all five windows.  I hadn’t wanted to gather this fabric, as it is very thick and would have looked terrible.  So I had started to make pleats on the first drape which was very time-consuming.  Then it was obvious that each pleat would also have to be sewn vertically for about 10” too, to make them hang right.  The cargo trailer will in all likelihood be sold to a man, and men are not keen on drapes.  The kitchen drapes might get in the way of the cook stove, so I think I will buy some pull-down shades, and replace the fabric with my fabric.

Not much to show for it, but I was busy all day.

TX Hill Country. LBJ Ranch. Lady Bird Johnson Park. Teddy Roosevelt. Penicillin. Don't Drink and Drive!.

For: Travel Tuesday", we haven't left the Fredericksburg area yet!

"Texas's famed hill country is a bucolic, rumpled terrain marked by wooded canyons cut by spring-fed rivers. It's also laced with endless miles of appealing two-lane blacktop—and, best of all, it's quirky. One minute you'll see a vista of bluebonnets and the next a sign advertising "Emu Oil, Next Exit" or "Cowboys for Christ Silent Auction."  
The Hill Country begins just north of Austin, continues south to San Antonio, and sweeps west some 200 miles (322 km) before the land begins to flatten out. Follow a route linking state and U.S. secondary highways, which lead to a series of colorful towns fit for dawdling."  From: http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/travel/road-trips/hill-country-texas-road-trip

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Hill Country Culture

"Settled by Germans and Eastern Europeans, the Hill Country has a culture all its own. Storybook farms and ranches dot the countryside, and you may still hear older folks speaking German in Fredericksburg, Boerne and New Braunfels. You’ll also find some of the best barbecue in Texas, antiques shops on old-fashioned Main Streets and celebrations with roots in the Old World, like Wurstfest (a sausage festival) and Weihnachten (a Christmas festival). From: http://visitsanantonio.com/visitors/play/texas-hill-country/index.aspx

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The shaded area is The Texas Hill Country.

Pictures of the area:

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Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park

"Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park is a United States National Historical Park in central Texas about 50 miles west of Austin in the Texas Hill Country. The park protects the birthplace, home, ranch and final resting place of Lyndon B. Johnson, 36th President of the United States.

LBJ State Park & Historic Site near Fredericksburg offers history, beautiful hill country scenery and the Sauer Beckman Living History Farm. This "White House of the West" is truly a unique piece of Texas."      More at: http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/findadest/parks/lyndon_b_johnson/

The Sauer Beckman Living History Farm.

"During Johnson's Administration, the LBJ Ranch house was known as the Texas White House."  Touring the Texas White House: http://www.nps.gov/lyjo/planyourvisit/twhopening.htm

"LBJ is king of the Hill Country. Nothing is more evident than his home, also known as the Texas White House.  While touring the LBJ National Historical Park you will come upon it after the ranch. You will actually drive up to the hangar which is where Air Force One would land.  The hangar is transformed into a miniature exhibit and video while you wait for the tour to start. There is also a collection of old cars LBJ owned and operated on the land.    

When taking the driving tour you will come upon many homes that the Johnson family lived in when settling the area. Be sure not to get this confused with the Johnson Settlement in Johnson City!  This particular area begins by passing a Lutheran Church LBJ would attend. It's also the sight of where he began his HeadStart program that is so successful today. Head Start is a preschool for parents who can't afford a good start to education. Then you will pass LBJ's old school. (So small!)   Then you will come across the house that LBJ lived as a boy...he was not born here (that's in Johnson City). It also has a red house which was where LBJ's grandparents lived.
Across from all of the homes is the Johnson Family Cemetery. There is where LBJ is buried. His wife is also there." Read more: http://www.virtualtourist.com/travel/North_America/United_States_of_America/Texas/Fredericksburg-877642/Things_To_Do-Fredericksburg-LBJ_Ranch-BR-1.html#ixzz1mI2ATcve

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JetStar rescued from Arizona 'bone yard' made numerous trips for the Johnson White House.

"LBJ's plane has made its final landing.  A JetStar that flew in and out of Lyndon Johnson's ranch when he was vice president and president in the 1960s is back. The 13-passenger Lockheed plane is sometimes referred to as Air Force One Half.  The historic JetStar is on permanent exhibit at the LBJ ranch in the Hill Country."           Video and more at: http://www.statesman.com/news/local/piece-of-flying-history-lands-on-lbj-ranch-868981.html

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FRIENDS OF LBJ NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK 
Click: Map      Coming 2012 Events:

March 24: 5th Annual LBJ 100 Bicycle Tour
April 13: Reflections of the '60s at LBJ Ranch: Anniversary of Elementary & Secondary Education Act of 1965, at LBJ Ranch
May 5: Barbeque On The Pedernales, at the LBJ Ranch
June 2: Movies Under the Stars, at the LBJ Ranch
July 14: Movies Under the Stars, at the LBJ Ranch
August 27: 104th Anniversary of LBJ's
Birth Wreathlaying Ceremony, at the LBJ Ranch
November 24, December 1, 15: Christmas at the
Boyhood Home, 1920s Style, at Johnson City
December 8: "Timeless Christmas in Johnson City",
A 1920s Christmas at the Boyhood Home, and
a 1860s Christmas, at the Johnson Settlement

Click on web sites below for details.
Friends: www.FriendsOfLBJNationalPark.orgEmail: info@FriendsOfLBJNationalPark.org
NPS Web: www.nps.gov/lyjo

http://www.nps.gov/lyjo/index.htm

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Lady Bird has left her own memorials around the USA, one is:

Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park

"Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park in Fredericksburg, Texas is quite versatile. There’s a softball field with lights, a baseball field, and one practice field. A creek is available for fishing and boating (though only boats without motors). What’s more, there’s an 18-hole, par-72, championship golf course with driving range, putting greens, and a practice bunker." 

Lady Bird Johnson Golf Course is open every day of the week except Monday mornings.  It is located out State Highway 16 South,  3 miles south of the downtown area, inside Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park. For more information or for tee time reservations, call  (830) 997-4010 or toll-free 1-800-950-8147.

RV Park

"Guests or relatives coming in from out of town can park their travel trailer or motor home at the beautiful Lady Bird Johnson Municipal RV Park.  The park features 113 RV spaces with 30-50 amp electrical hookups, water, sewer,  Time Warner cable TV, and lots of lush shade trees. Wireless Internet is now available for an additional fee."

Lady Bird Johnson Park

"The Fredericksburg Nature Center, located at Lady Bird Johnson Park, southwest of Fredericksburg, TX on Hwy 16 offers a unique blend of diverse habitats to visitors, one that can be found nowhere else in Texas. Click here for a map.  More particularly, the Nature Center is fortunate to be a focus of diversity because of the local hydrology and geology.

Within the Nature Center's ten acres you will find 11 distinct habitats, among them: Post Oak savannah, Wetland, Riparian, Old growth Live Oak woods, Native Texas prairie, Cedar brake, Lake aquatics, Mud flats, Lake islands, Springs and seeps. That one small area offers so many species of birds, forbs, grasses, woody plants, amphibians, reptiles, and insects is truly amazing. Come visit the Fredericksburg Nature Center and see for yourself!"

--------------Upcoming Events-------------

Butterfly Chase - 8:30 AM - Sunday, April 29

Field Trip ticket required in addition to festival pass.
Guided two-hour chase at Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park. Short, easy walk.  Group leaves from the Pioneer Pavilion at 8:30 a.m. on Sunday, April 29.

Swap Meet, July 27, 28, 29 2012.

35th Annual Hill Country Swap Meet at Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park http://fredericksburgcarclub.com/swap_meet.html   Hosted by the Fredericksburg Vintage Car Club,  a Chapter of Veteran Motor Car Club of America.    Benefit FVCC Scholarship Fund     

Sept. 3 - Extended thru Feb. 26
Around About Water

January 7 thru March 11
Living Witness: Historic Trees of Texas

January 7 to March 11
Urban Folk by Judy Paul

February 25-26, 2012
2012 Native Plant Spring Symposium

Starting February 27
Professional Workshop Series: Principles of Successful Sustainable Landscapes

Monday, February 27
Lunchtime Webinar Series

Begins March 12- Wildflower Days™ 2012

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"The municipal park where we spend the winter has a golf course, nature trail, lovely club house, swimming pool (in the summer), tennis courts, small river and sports fields in addition to around 90 campsites.  When we can have the windows open, we can hear the water falling over the dam." More at: http://travelingsnyders.wordpress.com/2011/03/24/winter-texans-and-lady-bird-johnson-municipal-park/

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From me:  It was when we were at Lady Bird Johnson Park that I saw my ideal RV combo, a Class A with a pop-top Astro Provan Tiger RV for a toad. From then on, I wanted a Tiger, but never bought one.

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On This Day:

Theodore Roosevelt's wife and mother die, Feb 14, 1884:

"On this day in 1884, future President Theodore Roosevelt's wife and mother die, only hours apart.

Roosevelt was at work in the New York state legislature attempting to get a government reform bill passed when he was summoned home by his family. He returned home to find his mother, Mittie, had succumbed to typhoid fever. On the same day, his wife of four years, Alice Lee, died of Bright's disease, a severe kidney ailment. Only two days before her death, Alice Lee had given birth to the couple's daughter, Alice.

The double tragedy devastated Roosevelt. He ordered those around him not to mention his wife's name. Burdened by grief, he abandoned politics, left the infant Alice with his sister Bamie, and, at the end of 1884, struck out for the Dakota territories, where he lived as a rancher and worked as a sheriff for two years. When not engrossed in raising cattle or acting as the local lawman, Roosevelt found time to indulge his passion for reading and writing history. After a blizzard wiped out his prized herd of cattle in 1885, Roosevelt decided to return to eastern society. Once back in New York in 1886, he again took up politics and took over raising his precocious daughter, Alice, who later became a national celebrity.

After stints in the Spanish-American War and as governor of New York, Roosevelt won a spot as William McKinley's vice-presidential running mate in 1896. When McKinley died at the beginning of his second term in 1901, Roosevelt moved into the White House, where he and his family would spend the next eight years.

Alice grew to admire and respect her father yet, according to her memoirs and friends, she harbored resentment toward him for having abandoned her as a baby. Not long after he married his second wife, Edith, in 1886, Alice found herself competing not only with her father's political cronies and new wife for his attention, but also with her five half-siblings who arrived in quick succession. The high-spirited Alice perhaps took to scandalous behaviour in retaliation.

The Roosevelt era coincided with a repressive time in women's history, but the outspoken and independent Alice flouted acceptable behavior and reveled in the spotlight as first daughter. Alice's activities as a young adult, such as smoking and staying out late with boys, irked her father, who nevertheless indulged her. In one instance when she repeatedly burst into a White House meeting, Roosevelt shrugged apologetically, "I can either run the country or I can control Alice, but I cannot possibly do both."

After Roosevelt left office, Alice maintained a high profile in Washington society. She was banned from visiting the Taft White House after a voodoo doll of Mrs. Taft was found buried (by Alice) in the front lawn. President Wilson also banned her from White House society in retaliation for her making a lewd comment about him in public. Wilson was not her only target--she once remarked that her friend, Warren Harding's Vice President Calvin Coolidge, looks as though he's been weaned on a pickle."

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Penicillin discovered, Feb 14, 1929:

"Sir Alexander Fleming was a young bacteriologist when an accidental discovery led to one of the great developments of modern medicine on this day in 1929. Having left a plate of staphylococcus bacteria uncovered, Fleming noticed that a mold that had fallen on the culture had killed many of the bacteria. He identified the mold as penicillium notatum, similar to the kind found on bread. On February 14, 1929, Fleming introduced his mold by-product called penicillin to cure bacterial infections."

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Yesterday:

Jay said he didn't want to paddle around in the cold and rain, but I told him we have plenty to do inside, so Misty and I went to get him.  Jay, Misty, Maddie and I, had our walk wearing raincoats.

Jay got up on the step ladder and took down the outside electric 'Yard Sale' sign down, finally.  We did a few more jobs in the grooming room.

Today, Valentine's Day, is not something our family celebrates for religious reasons, (http://www.ucg.org/bible-faq/where-did-valentines-day-come-it-wrong-christian-celebrate-it ). Anyway, people should show their love for one another every day.  Also, because it is a very sad time for us. The reason I took my dying dog to Galveston on the 4th-5th February 2006, was so I could see my dying granddaughter in hospital there.

Six years ago today, my granddaughter died from being hit by that drunk driver, after being in a coma for 18 days.

21 Things Your Burglar Won't Tell You! Memories.

(But these convicted Burglars did!!)

1. Of course I look familiar.   I was here just last week cleaning your carpets,  painting your shutters, or delivering your new refrigerator.
2. Hey,  thanks for letting me use the bathroom when I was working in your yard last week.    While I was in there,  I unlatched the back window to make my return a little easier.
3. Love those flowers.  That tells me you have taste ... and taste means there are nice things inside.  Those yard toys your kids leave out always make me wonder what type of gaming system they have.
4. Yes,  I really do look for newspapers piled up on the driveway.    And I might leave a pizza flyer in your front door to see how long it takes you to remove it...!!
5. If it snows while you're out of town, get a neighbor to create car and foot tracks into the house. Virgin drifts in the driveway are a dead giveaway.
6. If decorative glass is part of your front entrance, don't let your alarm company install the control pad where I can see if it's set.     That makes it too easy.
7. A good security company alarms the window over the sink.   And the windows on the second floor, which often access the master bedroom  -  and your jewelry.     It's not a bad idea to put motion detectors up there too.
8. It's raining,  you're fumbling with your umbrella,  and you forget to lock your door  -understandable.      But understand this:     I don't take a day off because of bad weather.
9. I always knock first.    If you answer,   I'll ask for directions somewhere or offer to clean your gutters.     (Don't take me up on it.)
10. Do you really think I won't look in your sock drawer?     I always check dresser drawers,  the bedside table, and the medicine cabinet...
11. Helpful hint:   I almost never go into kids' rooms.
12. You're right:    I won't have enough time to break into that safe where you keep your valuables. But if it's not bolted down,   I'll take it with me.
13. A loud TV or radio can be a better deterrent than the best alarm system.   If you're reluctant to leave your TV on while you're out of town,   you can buy a $35 device that works on a timer and simulates the flickering glow of a real television. (Find it at faketv.com.)
14. Sometimes, I carry a clipboard.  Sometimes, I dress like a lawn guy and carry a rake. I do my best to never, ever,  look like a crook.
15. The two things I hate most:   loud dogs and nosy neighbors.
16. I'll break a window to get in,  even if it makes a little noise.   If your neighbor hears one loud sound,  he'll stop what he's doing and wait to hear it again.    If he doesn't hear it again,  he'll just go back to what he was doing.     It's human nature.
17. I'm not complaining,  but why would you pay all that money for a fancy alarm system and leave your house without setting it?
18. I love looking in your windows.   I'm looking for signs that you are at home,  and for flat screen TVs or gaming systems I'd like.    I'll drive or walk through your neighborhood at night,   before you close the blinds - just to pick my targets.
19. Avoid announcing your vacation or weekend holiday on your Facebook page.   It's easier than you think to look up your address.
20. To you, leaving that window open just a crack during the day is a way to let in a little fresh air. To me,  it's an invitation.
21. If you don't answer when I knock,  I try the door.    Occasionally,  I hit the jackpot and walk right in. . . . .
Sources:   Convicted burglars in North Carolina,  Oregon,  California, and Kentucky;   security consultant Chris McGoey,  who runs crimedoctor.com; and Richard T. Wright,   a criminology professor at the University of Missouri - St. Louis, who interviewed 105 burglars for his book,  "Burglars on the Job."

One more protection for you and your home:
"If you don't have a gun,  here's a more humane way to wreck someone's evil  plans for you.
 I guess I can get rid of the baseball bat.   Get Wasp Spray!
A friend who is a receptionist in a church in a high risk area was concerned about someone coming into the office on Monday to rob them when they were counting the collection.  She asked the local police department about using pepper spray and they recommended to her that she get a can of wasp spray instead.

The wasp spray, they told her, can shoot up to TWENTY FEET away and is a lot more accurate, while with the pepper spray, they have to get too close to you and could overpower you.    The wasp spray temporarily BLINDS  an attacker until they get to the hospital for an antidote.   
She keeps a can on her desk in the office and it doesn't attract attention from people like a can of pepper spray would.    She also keeps one nearby at home for home protection... "

Because of Anonymous' comment, I am adding this: http://www.snopes.com/crime/prevent/waspspray.asp
I thought this was interesting & might be of use!!

So, of you're looking for protection, look to the wasp spray.
"That's going to give you a chance to call the police;  & maybe get out."
Maybe even save a life.
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A lazy day today, as no one was coming, and I didn’t have to take any one anywhere.  I leisurely drank my morning coffee, tended to emails, then a long soak in the tub, washed my hair, and laundered sheets.
I think I have a head cold, but with my sinuses messed up, it is difficult to tell.  I still haven’t been to my new doctor to find out what can be done about these cysts in my sinuses.
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This is a ‘mizzy’ time of year for me.  Four years ago today,  my granddaughter was laying in Galveston Hospital (UTMB) in a coma hooked to numerous machines, having been hit my a DDD (dam drunk driver).  Also, I had just been informed that my dog had terminal inoperable spleen cancer, and needed to be PTS.

On top of that, I had about 10 sick and injured Llasa Apsos here who belonged to a neighbor who had had a severe stroke.  Her daughter and granddaughter saw the $ signs in the dogs, especially the puppies, and wouldn’t let me take care of them.  They thought it was going to be easy!! But they had never been around a mess of dogs, and didn’t know how to take care of them. They lost some pups with coccidiosis, and then didn’t vaccinate them, so they got parvo.   They hadn’t left food or water for the dogs, so they dug out of two fences, and were all over the streets, some injured,  trying to get to me.  Naturally, I had to pick them up and take them in, and got the worst ones to Kenya of the SPCA, for immediate medical attention.   So I couldn’t leave or spend time with my dog.

I was so stressed that I had some kind of a kind of heart attack, like Atrial Fibrillation and angina.  I was weak, and even passed out on the dog room floor, awakened by being licked by the Llasas, who all loved me, as I had lovingly groomed them for many years.

 I knew that I had to do something, so I called my friend Sherry of the Llasa Rescue. (The dog’s owner had told me that if anything happened to her, that is where she wanted her dogs to go.)   Sherry and her family drove many miles, and took all the Llasas that night.  But I still wouldn’t go to the hospital, as I wanted to spend the last day or two with my dying dog, and see my granddaughter one last time.

I took aspirin, nitro glycerin, green tea, and sat and held him all night.  The following morning, Jay helped me pack the old motor home, and I drove to Galveston, with enough pain meds for my dog for three days.  I did see my granddaughter for the last time before she passed away on the 14th. February. Jay went with me to watch my dog while I was in the hospital.

Jake and Shari, yes, our JATexas, who I have known since the old RVAmerica chat, of http://jatexas.blogspot.com/ and his great website : http://jatexas.com/ let me plug in outside their house at High Island, so I could see my granddaughter again the following day in Galveston. 

But my dog was getting worse, and Jay had got hold of some beer, so I unplugged, and I drove through the night to the only Animal Emergency Hospital that I knew where it was.  So early that morning, my doggie went to Rainbow bridge.

Finally, after Jay dug a resting place next to Honky, my white cat, and Critter, my late DH's dog, I went to the Urgent Care Clinic near the house, and an EKG confirmed that I had had a heart attack.

In loving memory of my Levi, today.