LOVE WHAT YOU DO

Why Hairdressing Is A Cut Above Others

Being a hairdresser is one of the most satisfying modern jobs, a survey has revealed. The much maligned trade has come second in a list of 81 occupations assessed for job satisfaction.

But snipping sideburns and creating quiffs was not quite as satisfying as being a corporate manager or a senior official, which came top of the chart. The majority of jobs featured in the top 10 were management positions, the survey published in the Industrial Relations Journal found.

But teaching rose dramatically from its previous position of 54th most satisfying profession in 1999 to take the 11th spot in the new chart. Journalists and media professionals were in 50th position, with legal professions, such as lawyers, at 44. Health professionals, such as doctors, were in 13th place, while welders dropped to near the bottom of the pile, in 80th. The survey found that workers who were well paid, had supportive colleagues and were able to express themselves on the job were those most satisfied with their professions.

The research was carried out by the University of Bath, using figures provided by the Department of Trade & Industry's Workplace Employment Relations survey of 2004-2005.
Careers in household services, childcare, secretarial services and leisure and travel services have all proved less satisfying since the last survey. Professor Michael Rose, who conducted the research, said: "These are all occupations in which women heavily predominate, confirming a long term trend towards lower women's job satisfaction. "Job satisfaction among skilled construction workers, an almost exclusively male group of occupations, also fell sharply in recent years."

The Ten Most Satisfying Jobs:
1. Corporate Managers and Senior Officials
2. Hairdressers and Related Occupations
3. Health and Social Service Managers
4. Personal Services Occupations
5. Managers in Distribution, Storage and Retailing
6. Production Managers
7. Managers and Proprietors in other Service Industries
8. Sports and Fitness Occupations
9. Functional Managers
10. Artistic and Literary Occupations.

Freeman B. Anderson's WW11 Photos

Activity Photos taken by Freeman B. Anderson during his service with the 32nd Bomb Squadron, 301st Bomb Group (H) while in North Africa and Italy during the second World War. The photos were donated by his daughter Allison Anderson. Freeman served with the ground echelon and all of the photos were from his personal collection. Those who are interested in the Air War history of the war will find many interesting facts and combat stories in the below link to the 32nd Bomb Squadron's website.

http://www.32ndbombsquadron.com/gallery/index.html Anderson Photos

http://www.32ndbombsquadron.com/ 32nd Web Site

General Paul Tibbets & Enola Gay

A little bit of History! The life and story of a true American was Paul Tibbets who flew B-17s at the beginning of WWl l while stationed in England and North Africa. President Harry Truman's decision to drop the A-Bomb to end the war and save millions of lives led to General Paul Tibbets B-29 "Enola Gay's" successful job. For further information about this truly patriotic American click on the URL at the end of this article.

Paul Warfield Tibbets, Jr. was born in Quincy, Illinois on February 23rd, 1915. Later his parents moved to Florida where, at the age of twelve, Paul had his first airplane ride. As part of an advertising stunt, he threw Baby Ruth candy bars, with paper parachutes attached, from a biplane flying over a crowd gathered at the Hialeah horse track near Miami. From that day on, Paul knew he had to fly. His teen years were spent attending Western Military Academy. Later he attended the Universities of Florida and Cincinnati in pursuit of a career in medicine, but his determination to fly was greater than that of a career both parents wanted for him. So, on February 25th, 1937, Paul enlisted as a flying cadet in the Army Air Corps at Fort Thomas, Kentucky. A year later he got his pilot wings at Kelly Field, Texas and was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant.

In February 1942, Paul became the Squadron Commander of the 340th Bomb Squadron, 97th Bombardment Group, destined for England. He flew 25 missions in B-17s, including the first American Flying Fortress raid against occupied Europe. In November of that year he was in Algeria leading the first bombardment missions in support of the North African invasion.

In March 1943, he was returned to the states to test the combat capability of Boeing's new Super Fortress, the B-29, an airplane plagued with problems. He taught himself to fly the airplane and subsequently flew it about 400 hours in tests. This eventually gave him more experience as to the capabilities and limitations of a B-29 than any other pilot at that time.

In September 1944, Paul was briefed on the Manhattan Project, the code name for the development of the atom bomb. It was to be his responsibility to organize and train a unit to deliver these weapons in combat operations. He would also determine and supervise the modifications necessary to make the B-29 capable of delivering the weapons, and for this, the unit had to be self-sufficient. Secrecy was paramount. The unit would support Los Alamos with flight test airplanes to establish ballistics and detonator reliability to explode the bombs. Paul was told, "You are on your own. No one knows what to tell you. Use normal channels to the extent possible. If you are denied something you need, restate your need is for "SILVERPLATE" (a codename) and your request will be honored without question."

Paul requisitioned 15 new B-29s and specified they be stripped of turrets and armor plating except for the tail gunner position; that fuel-injected engines and new technology reversible-pitch propellers be installed; and the bomb bay re-configured to suspend, from a single point, ten thousand pounds. Such an airplane would fly higher, faster, and above the effective range of anti-aircraft fire.

A B-29 bombardment squadron, the 393rd, in its final stage of training, and Wendover Army Air Base located on the Utah/Nevada border were selected by Paul for "starters". The 393rd was fully equipped and the base had a fully manned "housekeeping" group. Wendover was isolated but close enough to Los Alamos to work together. The Salton Sea was an ideal distance for bombing practice. Then on December 17th, 1944, formal orders were issued activating the 509th Composite Group, consisting of seven subordinate units.

In March 1945 the First Ordnance Squadron, a unit designed to carry out the technical phases of the group responsibilities, became part of the 509th. The personnel count now exceeded 1500 enlisted men and some 200 officers. Then, quietly, the group started moving overseas to Tinian Island in the Marianas chain. On the afternoon of August 5th, 1945, President Truman gave his approval to use the weapons against Japan. By the time the plane left, it's familiar arrowhead tail motif had been changed on both sides to the letter "R" in a circle, the standard i.d. for the Sixth bomb group.

The idea behind the change was to confuse the enemy if they made contact, which they did not. At 02:45 A.M. August 6th, the Enola Gay lifted off North Field with Paul Tibbets and his crew en route to Hiroshima. At exactly 09:15 plus 15 seconds the world's first atomic bomb used in combat. The course of history and the nature of warfare was changed.

The Enola Gay landed back at Tinian at 2:58 P.M. and the plane and crew were greeted by General Spaatz, a large contingent of brass, and jubilant GIs. General Spaatz decorated Tibbets with the Distinguished Service Cross and the other crew members with Air Medals. This tremendous accomplishment, which not only affected the outcome of World War II but altered the history of the world, was not merely a single event. Rather, it was a culmination of events throughout which Paul Tibbets played a pivotal role.

In 1946 Paul participated in the Bikini Bomb Tests as technical advisor to the commander of the air task force. Later, he was responsible for the Air Force's purchase of the B-47 six engine jet bomber and its service tests at the Boeing factory in Wichita, Kansas. He went on to command two of the Strategic Air Command's bomber organizations, did a tour with NATO in France, and was responsible for establishing the National Military Command Center in the Pentagon. Next, he headed a team of officers and civilians which analyzed the major commands' use of resources to accomplish their assigned missions. He then reported the team's findings to the Air Staff.

When Paul Tibbets retired from the U.S. Air Force on August 31st, 1966, he had completed more than 29 and one-half years of service, but he was not through flying. Initially he resided in Geneva, Switzerland, operating three Lear jets throughout central Europe. There, he helped to educate the air ministries about the jet's uses. He also advised the air ministries about the aviation controls and guidelines they later instituted within their countries. Back in Columbus, Ohio in 1970, Paul joined Executive Jet Aviation, an all-jet air taxi service company, where he served in different capacities. Paul rose up the corporate ladder to become Chairman of the Board in 1982. The company changed ownership in 1985 and Paul retired again. During his 15 years Paul Tibbets acquired almost 400 hours in Lear jets, flying with an Air Transport Pilot rating.

As pilot of one of the most famous flights of WW II, which brought about a quicker surrender from the enemy and a reduction in the loss of Allied lives, and for his leadership and skill with both airplanes and people in times of stress, Paul W. Tibbets, Jr. is enshrined with honor into the National Aviation Hall of Fame.

Awards and Decorations
Distinguished Service CrossDistinguished Flying CrossAir MedalPurple HeartLegion of MeritEuropean Campaign MedalJoint Staff Commendation MedalAmerican Defense Service MedalW.W.II Victory MedalAir Force Outstanding Unit AwardAmerican Campaign Medal

http://www.theenolagay.com/man.html

Colin P. Kelly a Hero

The 32nd Bomb Squadron was origionally part of the 19th Bomb Group before WWII and was later transferred to the 301st Bomb Group being formed at Geiger Field in Spokane Washington in January of 1942. Before Pear Harbor Colin P Kelly was a Flight officer and in those days was also assigned extra duties as the Personnel Supply Officer in the 32nd Bomb Squadron. He was a hero in legend and in fact.

On the morning of Dec. 10, 1941, six B-17Cs of the 14th Bomb Squadron, 19th Bomb Group, sat in the rain at a rough landing strip near San Marcelino on the Philippine island of Luzon. The crews had spent the night without food, sleeping in or under their planes. Of the war situation they knew little except that Japan had attacked Clark Field and other installations near Manila on Dec. 8--Pearl Harbor on the 7th--and some 400 Japanese aircraft had destroyed most of the US B-17s and pursuit planes.

Squadron Commander Maj. Emmett "Rosy" O'Donnell Jr., had flown to Clark before daylight to get orders for his squadron. He radioed his pilots to proceed to Clark at daybreak. Only three of the B-17s were allowed to land. They were flown by Capt. Colin P. Kelly Jr., and Lts. George E. Schaetzel and G. R. Montgomery. Captain Kelly, a 1937 graduate of the US Military Academy and a former B-17 instructor, was one of the most experienced and respected pilots of the 19th Bomb Group.

An imminent air attack sent the three bombers off to their respective targets before refueling and bomb loading were completed. Captain Kelly had only three 600-pound bombs aboard and orders to attack airfields on Formosa (Taiwan), some 500 miles north of Clark. The mission would earn Colin Kelly a place in American history and legend.
In the confusion of the early days of the Pacific war, Kelly was credited with sinking a Japanese battleship and with award of the Medal of Honor. Overnight he became a national hero. It later was determined that Kelly and his crew did not sink a battleship, nor was he awarded the Medal of Honor, although some still believe both. In fact, Colin Kelly was recommended for the Medal of Honor by Maj. Gen. Lewis H. Brereton, commander of the US Far East Air Forces. The award he received was the Distinguished Service Cross, on the orders of Gen. Douglas MacArthur's headquarters.

This is what actually happened, as told in mission debriefings by members of Kelly's crew and in an official report of the mission prepared in February 1942. For Captain Kelly and his crew, it was a solo mission deep into territory where the Japanese held absolute air superiority. They had no fighter escort. By Dec. 10, there were only 22 flyable P-40s and a few obsolete P-35s left. As they flew north toward Formosa, Kelly and his crew passed over a large Japanese landing in progress at Aparri on the north coast of Luzon. The presence of an enemy carrier in the vicinity had also been reported.

Kelly radioed Clark Field for permission to attack the landing force, which was supported by several destroyers and a large warship, thought to be a battleship, bombarding the coast from several miles offshore. After two calls to Clark that brought only a response to stand by, Kelly told the crew they were going ahead on his decision to attack the battleship--actually a cruiser. Kelly made two dry runs at 20,000 feet, giving bombardier Sgt. Meyer Levin time to set up for an accurate drop.

On the third run, he told Levin to release the bombs in train. As best the crew could tell, two of the three bombs bracketed the ship with one direct hit. Smoke prevented more accurate assessment. The B-17 then headed for Clark Field, its bomb bay empty.
As it approached Clark, the bomber was hit by enemy fighters.
The first attack killed TSgt. William Delehanty, wounded Pfc. Robert Altman, and destroyed the instrument panel. A second attack set the left wing ablaze. The fire spread rapidly into the fuselage, filling the flight deck with smoke.

Captain Kelly ordered the crew to bail out while he still had control of the doomed bomber. Fire began to engulf the flight deck. SSgt. James Halkyard, Pfc. Willard Money, and Private Altman went out the rear. Navigator 2d Lt. Joe Bean and Sergeant Levin, after a time-consuming struggle, pried open a stuck escape hatch and took to their chutes. The nose of the aircraft was now an inferno. Colin Kelly remained at the controls as copilot 2d Lt. Donald Robins moved to the upper escape hatch. At that moment, the bomber exploded, hurling a badly burned Robins clear of the aircraft.

The B-17 crashed about five miles from Clark Field. Colin Kelly's body was found at the site. The early report of his heroism, which inspired a nation in shock, is in no way diminished by the actual events of that December day in 1941. Alone and far from friendly territory, he attacked and damaged a heavily armed ship, then sacrificed his own life to save his crew.

Thanks to Robert Altman, a member of Capt. Colin Kelly's crew, captured by the Japanese during the surrender of the Philippines, and for 40 months a POW in Japan.

Published June 1994. For presentation on this web site, some Valor articles have been amended for accuracy.

Important Resume

Address: Ephesians 1:20 Phone: Romans 10:13 Website: The Bible. Keywords: Christ, Lord, Savior and Jesus. Hello. My name is Jesus -The Christ. Many call me Lord! I've sent you my resume because I'm seeking the top management position in your heart. Please consider my accomplishments as set forth in my resume.

Qualifications: I founded the earth and established the heavens, (See Proverbs 3! :19) I formed man from the dust of the ground, (See Genesis 2:7) I breathed into man the breath of life, (See Genesis 2:7) I redeemed man from the curse of the law, (See Galatians 3:13) The blessings of the Abrahamic Covenant comes upon your life through me, (See Galatians 3:14)

Occupational Background: I've only had one employer, (See Luke 2:49). I've never been tardy, absent, disobedient, slothful or disrespectful. My employer has nothing but rave reviews for me, (See Matthew 3:15-17)
Skills Work Experiences and some of my skills and work experiences include:

Empowering the poor to be poor no more, healing the brokenhearted, setting the captives free, healing the sick, restoring sight to the blind and setting at liberty them that are bruised, (See Luke 4:18). I am a Wonderful Counselor, (See Isaiah 9:6). People who listen to me shall dwell safely and shall not fear evil, (See Proverbs 1:33). Most importantly, I have the authority, ability and power to cleanse you of your sins, (See I John 1:7-9)

Educational Background: I encompass the entire breadth and length of knowledge, wisdom and understanding, (See Proverbs 2:6). In me are hid all of the treasures of wisdom and knowledge, (See Colossians 2:3). My Word is so powerful; it has been described as being a lamp unto your feet and a light unto your path, (See Psalms 119:105). I can even tell you all of the secrets of your heart, (See Psalms 44:21).

Major Accomplishments: I was an active participant in the greatest Summit Meeting of all times, (See Genesis 1:26). I laid down my life so that you may live, (See II Corinthians 5:15). I defeated the archenemy of God and mankind and made a show of them openly, (See Colossians 2:15). I've miraculously fed the poor, healed the sick and raised the dead! There are many more major accomplishments, too many to mention here. You can read them on my website, which is located at: www dot - the BIBLE. You don't need an Internet connection or computer to access my website.

References: Believers and followers worldwide will testify to my divine healings, salvation, deliverance, miracles, restoration and supernatural guidance. In Summation, now that you've read my resume, I'm confident that I'm the only candidate uniquely qualified to fill this vital position in your heart. In summation, I will properly direct your paths, (See Proverbs 3:5-6), and lead you into everlasting life, (See John 6:47). When can I start? Time is of the essence, (See Hebrews 3:15).

Let The Wind Blow!

CAN YOU SLEEP WHEN THE WIND BLOWS?

Years ago a farmer owned land along the Atlantic seacoast. He constantly advertised for hired hands. Most people were reluctant to work on farms along the Atlantic. They dreaded the awful storms that raged across the Atlantic, wreaking havoc on the buildings and crops.

As the farmer interviewed applicants for the job, he received a steady stream of refusals. Finally, a short, thin man, well past middle age, approached the farmer. "Are you a good farm hand?" the farmer asked him.

"Well, I can sleep when the wind blows," answered the little man. Although puzzled by this answer, the farmer, desperate for help, hired him.

The little man worked well around the farm, busy from dawn to dusk, and the farmer felt satisfied with the man's work. Then one night the wind howled proudly in from offshore. Jumping out of bed, the farmer grabbed a lantern and rushed next door to the hired hand's sleeping quarters. He shook the little man and yelled, "Get up! A storm is coming! Tie things down before they blow away!" The little man rolled over in bed and said firmly, "No sir. I told you, I can sleep when the wind blows."

Enraged by the response, the farmer was tempted to fire him on the spot. Instead, he hurried outside to prepare for the storm. To his amazement, he discovered that all of the haystacks had been covered with tarpaulins. The cows were in the barn, the chickens were in the coops, and the doors were barred. The shutters were tightly secured.

Everything was tied down. Nothing could blow away. The farmer then understood what his hired hand meant, so he returned to his bed to also sleep while the wind blew.

MORAL: When you're prepared, spiritually, mentally, and physically, you have nothing to fear. Can you sleep when the wind blows through your life? The hired hand in the story was able to sleep because he had secured the farm against the storm. We, as believers in Christ, secure ourselves against the storms of life by grounding ourselves in the Word of God. We don't need to understand, we just need to hold His hand to have peace in the midst of the storms. I hope you sleep well! May God Bless You and Yours.

HEART MURMUR

The benign murmurs are usually not associated with any other condition and most people lead normal and productive lives and still have normal cardiac function that usually does not cause future problems. In essence, the heart is a healthy one but just has irregular flow of blood that makes the murmur sound. Most people with this type do not have to restrict activities like eating, exercise, or other ones. Often doctors hear murmurs during a physical exam as they use the sthethoscope to listen to the sounds of the heart. They can have further tests to determine the type of murmur it actually is. They may have echocardiograms, which is where a device is placed on the body over the heart and moved around to "paint" (record) a picture of the heart on a machine & it shows what's going on as the heart pumps blood out from its chambers and valves;
So, remember most heart murmurs do not require any treatment--no medicine, surgery, or anything like that; but doctors do like to periodically evaluate the murmur just to make sure the heart murmur hasn't changed and that the heart is still functioning well. But, it's always important to try to use your healthy lifestyle habits like proper nutrition, no smoking, regular exercise to keep the heart strong and healthy. BUT, if the murmur is caused from a birth defect or the valves become severly diseased, then other treatments are needed including medicines. Most of the time, even with "normal" murmurs (no treatment needed), you do have to take antibiotics for procedures such as such as when you go to the dentist for routine cleanings, fillings, and other things or any type of other surgery.But, remember that most murmurs are not serious and many people have them and lead normal lives. Just if you are identified with a murmur, your doctor will certainly monitor it throughout your life. In fact, I found out I had a "normal" murmur when I was about 20 years old, and I'm healthy and have never had any problems. So, I hope this answered your question, and if you too have a murmur, try not to worry and just let your doctor evaluate it and determine if any treatment is necessary. BUT, keep in mind, very few people have serious heart murmurs resulting from major defects and very few people need treatment.

Health Benefits of the Banana!!

BENEFITS OF THE BANANA

Bananas, containing three natural sugars - sucrose, fructose and glucose, combined with fiber, give an instant, sustained and substantial boost of energy. Research has proven that just two bananas provide enough energy for a strenuous 90-minute workout. No wonder the banana is the number one fruit with the world's leading athletes. But energy isn't the only way a banana can help us keep fit. It can also help overcome or prevent a substantial number of illnesses and conditions, making it a must to add to our daily diet.

Depression: According to a recent Survey undertaken by MIND amongst people suffering from depression, many felt much better after eating a banana. This is because bananas contain tryptophan, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin, known to make you relax, improve your mood and generally make you feel happier.

PMS: Forget the pills -- eat a banana. The vitamin B6 it contains regulates blood glucose levels, which can affect your mood.

Anemia: High in iron, bananas can stimulate the production of hemoglobin in the blood and so helps in cases of anemia.

Blood Pressure: This unique tropical fruit is extremely high in potassium yet low in salt, making it the perfect way to beat blood pressure. So much so, the US Food and Drug Administration have just allowed the banana industry to make official claims for the fruit's ability to reduce the risk of blood pressure and stroke.

Brain Power: 200 students at a Twickenham (Middlesex) school were helped through their exams this year by eating bananas at breakfast, break, and lunch in a bid to boost their brain power. Research has shown that the potassium-packed fruit can assist learning by making pupils more alert.

Constipation: High in fiber, including bananas in the diet can help restore normal Bowel action, helping to overcome the problem without resorting to laxatives.

Hangovers: One of the quickest ways of curing a hangover is to make a banana milkshake, sweetened with honey. The banana calms the stomach and, with the help of the honey, builds up depleted blood sugar levels, while the milk soothes and re-hydrates your system.

Heartburn: Bananas have a natural antacid effect in the body, so if you suffer from heartburn, try eating a banana for soothing relief.

Morning Sickness: Snacking on bananas between meals helps to keep blood sugar levels up and avoid morning sickness.

Mosquito bites: Before reaching for the insect bite cream, try rubbing the affected area with the inside of a banana skin. Many people find it amazingly successful at reducing swelling and irritation.

Nerves: Bananas are high in B vitamins that help calm the nervous system.

Overweight and at work: Studies at the Institute of Psychology in Austria found pressure at work leads to gorging on comfort food like chocolate and chips. Looking at 5,000 hospital patients, researchers found the most obese were more likely to be in high-pressure jobs. The report concluded that, to avoid panic-induced food cravings, we need to control our blood sugar levels by snacking on high carbohydrate foods every two hours to keep levels steady.

Ulcers: The banana is used as the dietary food against intestinal disorders because of its soft texture and smoothness. It is the only raw fruit that can be eaten without distress in over-chronicler cases. It also neutralizes over-acidity and reduces irritation by coating the lining of the stomach.

Temperature control: Many other cultures see bananas as a "cooling" fruit that can lower both the physical and emotional temperature of expectant mothers. In Thailand, for example, pregnant women eat bananas to ensure their baby is born with a cool temperature.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Bananas can help SAD sufferers because they contain the natural mood enhancer tryptophan.

Smoking: Bananas can also help people trying to give up smoking. The B6, B12 they contain, as well as the potassium and magnesium found in them, help the body recover from the effects of nicotine withdrawal.

Stress: Potassium is a vital mineral, which helps normalize the heartbeat, sends oxygen to the brain and regulates your body's water balance. When we are stressed, our metabolic rate rises, thereby reducing our potassium levels. These can be rebalanced with the help of a high-potassium banana snack.

Strokes: According to research in "The New England Journal of Medicine," eating bananas as part of a regular diet can cut the risk of death by strokes by as much as 40%! So, a banana really is a natural remedy for many ills. When you compare it to an apple, it has four times the protein, twice the carbohydrates, three times the phosphorus, five times the vitamin A and iron, and twice the other vitamins and minerals. It is also rich in potassium and is one of the best value foods around. So maybe its time to change that well-known phrase so that we say, "A banana a day keeps the doctor away!"

A WWII War Story

The 301st Bomb Group consisted of four Bomb Squadrons. The Squadrons were the 32nd, 352nd, 353rd and the 419th. Below is a story that appeared as a special in the Stars and Stripes Naples edition. (Special to the Stars and Stripes, Naples edition) A bit of history from the files of the 32nd Bomb Squadron Web page. Read other combat stories on their web page. Just click on their link at the end of this post.

301st Target hit by 301st

15th Army Air Forces in Italy, July 9, 1944
The 301st Bombardment Group, one of the two B-17 Flying Fortress Groups to feel the fury of German fighters and flak in this way, yesterday completed its 301st mission.

Crew members of the Veteran Bombardment Group overseas for two years jubilantly reported that their bombs had smashed directly into the 301st target’s airfield installations at ZWOLFAXING AIRDROME near Vienna, Austria.

Colonel John F. Batjer, Houston, Texas, commanding officer who led the mission, reported the crews had done one of the best jobs of their 23 months of combat from England, Africa and Italy.

The 301st bomb Group, which led both of the first bombing missions against Rome and sank the Italian Heavy Cruiser Trieste, has been cited twice. Once came when it blew up an ammunition convoy entering Bizerte Harbor during the closing phases of the Tunisian campaign and another when it participated in the coordinated attack from England and Italy against Regensburg, Germany. During its two years overseas, the Fortress outfit has destroyed 386 enemy airplanes in aerial battles and probably destroyed 162 others. Enemy targets have been covered during that time with approximately 34,000,000 pounds of high explosives.

The 301st Group was activated February 3, 1942 at Geiger Field, Spokane, Washington and left the States the following July for England. http://www.32ndbombsquadron.com/32ndacts.html

Try Wonder Cures before you call the Doc!

Drinking two glasses of Gatorade can relieve headache pain almost immediately without the unpleasant side effects caused by traditional pain relievers. Did you know that Colgate toothpaste makes an excellent salve for burns.

Before you head to he drugstore for a high-priced inhaler filled with mysterious chemicals, try chewing on a couple of curiously strong Altoids peppermints. They'll clear up your stuffed nose.

Achy muscles from a bout of the flu? Mix one Tablespoon of horseradish in 1/2 cup of olive oil. Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes, then apply it as a massage oil, for instant relief for aching muscles.

Sore Throat?? Just mix 1/4 cup of vinegar with 1/4 cup of honey and take one Tablespoon six times a day. The vinegar kills the bacteria.

Cure urinary tract infections with alka-seltzer. Just dissolve two tablets in a glass of water and drink it at the onset of the symptoms.

Alka-Seltzer begins eliminating urinary tract infections almost instantly even though the product was never been advertised for this use.

Eliminate puffiness under your eyes..... All you need is a dab of preparation H, carefully rubbed into the skin, avoiding the eyes. The hemorrhoid ointment acts as a vasoconstrictor, relieving the swelling instantly.

Honey remedy for Skin Blemishes.. Cover the blemish with a dab of honey and place a Band-Aid over it. Honey kills the bacteria, keeps the skin sterile, and speeds healing. Works overnight.

Listerine therapy for toenail fungus ... Get rid of unsightly toenail fungus by soaking your toes in Listerine mouthwash. The powerful antiseptic leaves your toenails looking healthy again.

Easy eyeglass protection ... To prevent the screws in eyeglasses from loosening, apply a small drop of Maybelline Crystal Clear nail polish to the threads of the screws before tightening them............

Coca-Cola cure for rust... Forget those expensive rust removers. Just saturate an abrasive sponge with Coca Cola and scrub the rust stain. The phosphoric acid in the coke is what gets the job done.

Cleaning liquid that doubles as bug killer If menacing bees, wasps, hornets, or yellow jackets get in your home and you can't find the insecticide, try a spray of Formula 409. Insects drop to the ground instantly.

Smart splinter remover..... just pour a drop of Elmer's Glue-all over the splinter, let dry, and peel the dried glue off the skin. The splinter sticks to the dried glue.

Hunt's tomato paste boil cure ... Cover the boil with Hunt's tomato paste as a compress. The acids from the tomatoes soothe the pain and bring the boil to a head.

Balm for broken blisters ... To disinfect a broken blister, dab on a few drops of Listerine ... a powerful antiseptic.

Heinz vinegar to heal bruises... Soak a cotton ball in white vinegar and apply it to the bruise for 1 hour. The vinegar reduces the blueness and speeds up the healing process.

Kills fleas instantly. Dawn dishwashing liquid does the trick. Add a few drops to your dog's bath and shampoo the animal thoroughly. Rinse well to avoid skin irritations. Good-bye fleas Rainy day cure for dog odor ... Next time your dog comes in from the rain, simply wipe down the animal with Bounce or any dryer sheet, instantly making your dog smell springtime fresh.

Eliminate ear mites ... All it takes is a few drops of Wesson corn oil in your cat's ear. Massage it in, then clean with a cotton ball. Repeat daily for 3 days. The oil soothes the cat's skin, smothers the mites, and accelerates healing.

Vaseline cure for hairballs ... To prevent troublesome hairballs, apply a dollop of Vaseline petroleum jelly to your cat's nose. The cat will lick off the jelly, lubricating any hair in its stomach so it can pass easily through the digestive system.

Quaker Oats for fast pain relief ... It's not for breakfast anymore! Mix 2 cups of Quaker Oats and 1 cup of water in a bowl and warm in the microwave for 1 minute, cool slightly, and apply the mixture to your hands for soothing relief from arthritis pain.

You don't stop laughing because you grow old, ....you grow old because you stop laughing!

A Big Smile

It costs nothing, but creates much.

It enriches those who receive, without impoverishing those who give.

It happens in a flash and the memory of it sometimes lasts forever.

None are so rich that they can get along without it, and none so poor but become richer with its benefits.

It creates happiness in the home, fosters good will in a business, and is the countersign of friends.

It is rest to the weary, daylight to the discouraged, sunshine to the sad and Nature's best antidote for trouble.

Yet it cannot be bought, begged, borrowed or stolen, for it is something that is no earthly good to anybody till it is given away!

And if in the last-minute rush someone should be too tired to give you a smile, may we ask you to please leave one of yours?

For nobody needs a smile so much as those who have none left to give!

Keith Taylor's Disaster at 18,000 Feet

Lt. Keith Taylor was a co-pilot on a 32nd Bomb Squadron's B-17 bombing of a harbor in Greece in WWII. I was a member of the Squadron and recall the loss of one of our planes on this mission. Keith was a friend and this combat story was personally dictated to me.

ON THE 11TH of January 1944 the 32nd and the 301st Bomb Group were assigned to bomb the Piraeus Harbor in Greece. After our formation was organized and on its way to the target we ran into a weather front of 10/10 clouds. At eighteen thousand feet we entered an overcast. The clouds were very thick and visibility was not much beyond the wingtips, making it almost impossible to see other aircraft in the formation. At this height and with the thickness of the clouds some ice began to form on our wings. I learned later that the trailing squadrons initiated the procedure of flying off course for a couple minutes to obtain some spacing from the lead squadron, which maintained its course.

WE WERE ABOUT TWENTY MINUTES from the target when our plane made a severe movement up and down, and then sideways, before returning to its place in the formation. The whole plane shook and vibrated with a loud noise like an explosion. Our Pilot was Captain William Wofford, and between the two of us we were sure this was the end. Everything that was loose in the cockpit was all over the plane. It threw the bombardier against the Plexiglas nose, knocking his oxygen mask off and then flipping him on his back. We continued on and bombed the target with reported excellent results. After we left the target area, about thirty German Luftwaffe planes swarmed all over our formation. Our plane suffered some minor damage from flak and we lived to fly another day. I'm sure there was someone upstairs looking after us. The 32nd lost aircraft number 42-30466 on this mission and eight airmen were killed and two became prisoners of War.

THE OFFICIAL REPORT reveals the cause of the severe disturbance during the approach: Two 97th Bomb Group B-17s had engine trouble and began to leave the formation. Instead of making a 180-degree right turn, away from the formation, they turned to the left and flew head-on into the 301st formation. One flew below the leader's left wing and the other above and to the right, clipping the vertical stabilizer of Colonel Barthelmess's aircraft, and apparently hitting another 301st bomber before colliding with the lead bomber of the second element. One fortress in the lead element exploded, as did two B-17s in the second element. The P-38 pilots, who were flying low cover (beneath the overcast) for the mission, said they watched B-17 pieces raining from the sky for what seemed like five minutes.

THE COMMANDER'S and two other aircraft went over on their backs, not an ideal position for a fully loaded, iced up B-17. Two of those aircraft recovered at 10,000 feet. Others were not so lucky; the 301st lost five B-17s and their crews on this fateful mission. A navigator from the 419th bailed out and became a prisoner. One of the strangest stories of the war came from this mass accident. The collision severed the tail from one of the 353rd Squadron's bombers, trapping the crew in their positions. However, luck was with the tail gunner, Sgt. James Raley, as the accident had left the tail section with adequate lift and weight distribution to allow it to fall or "flutter" to earth. Raley described the tail spinning around before finally impacting in a clump of pine trees. He was on his thirteenth mission, and did not realize what had happened until the tail came to rest. He opened the bulkhead door to find no aircraft. Raley was the only survivor. There was also a collision that downed a 99th Bomb Group bomber and a P-38 within 40 miles of the Group's disaster. (This "Official Report" information is from "Who Fears", the history of the 301st Veterans Association). For other combat stories of this famous B-17 Bomb Squadron during World WarII click on these links. http://www.32ndbombsquadron.com/ http://www.32ndbombsquadron.com/32ndacts.html

If I had my Life to Live Over

In honor of women's history month and in memory of Erma Brombeck who lost her fight with cancer. Here is an angel sent to watch over you. IF I HAD MY LIFE TO LIVE OVER - by Erma Bombeck (written after she found out she was dying from cancer).

I would have gone to bed when I was sick instead of pretending the earth would go into a holding pattern if I weren't there for the day.

I would have burned the pink candle sculpted like a rose before it melted in storage.

I would have talked less and listened more.

I would have invited friends over to dinner even if the carpet was stained, or the sofa faded.

I would have eaten the popcorn in the 'good' living room and worried much less about the dirt when someone wanted to light a fire in the fireplace.

I would have taken the time to listen to my grandfather ramble about his youth.

I would have shared more of the responsibility carried by my husband.

I would never have insisted the car windows be rolled up on a summer day because my hair had just been teased and sprayed.

I would have sat on the lawn with my grass stains.

I would have cried and laughed less while watching television and more while watching life.

I would never have bought anything just because it was practical, wouldn't show soil, or was guaranteed to last a lifetime.

Instead of wishing away nine months of pregnancy, I'd have cherished every moment and realized that the wonderment growing inside me was the only chance in life to assist God in a miracle.

When my kids kissed me impetuously, I would never have said, "Later. Now go get washed up for dinner." There would have been more "I love you's." More "I'm sorry's."

But mostly, given another shot at life, I would seize every minute...look at it and really see it ... live it ..and never give it back. Stop sweating the small stuff.

Don't worry about who doesn't like you, who has more, or who's doing what.

Instead, let's cherish the relationships we have with those who do love us.

Let's think about what GOD has blessed us with. And what we are doing each day to promote ourselves mentally, physically, emotionally, as well as a shot at this and then it's gone. I hope you all have a blessed day. http://www.urlwire.com/news/022103.html

God's Diet Plan!

And God populated the earth with broccoli and cauliflower and spinach and green and yellow vegetables of all kinds, so Man and Woman would live long and healthy lives.

And Satan created McDonald's. And McDonald's brought forth the 99-cent double-cheeseburger. And Satan said to Man, "You want fries with that?" And Man said, "Super size them." And Man gained pounds.

And God created the healthful yogurt, that woman might keep her figure that man found so fair.

And Satan froze the yogurt, and he brought forth chocolate, nuts and brightly colored sprinkle candy to put on the yogurt. And woman gained pounds.

And God said, "Try my crispy fresh salad."

And Satan brought forth creamy dressings, bacon bits, and shredded cheese. And there was ice cream for dessert. And woman gained pounds.

And God said, "I have sent you heart healthy vegetables and olive oil with which to cook them."

And Satan brought forth chicken-fried steak from Cracker Barrel so big it needed its own platter And Man gained pounds, and his bad cholesterol went through the roof.

And God brought forth running shoes, and Man resolved to lose those extra pounds.

And Satan brought forth cable TV with remote control so Man would not have to toil to change channels between ESPN and ESPN2.. And Man gained pounds.

And God said, "You're running up the score, Devil." And God brought forth the potato, a vegetable naturally low in fat and brimming with nutrition.

And Satan peeled off the healthful skin and sliced the starchy center into chips and deep-fat fried them. And he created sour cream dip also. And Man clutched his remote control and ate the potato chips swaddled in cholesterol. And Satan saw and said, "It is good." And Man went into cardiac arrest.

And God sighed and created quadruple bypass surgery.....

And Satan created HMOs...

President Franklin Roosevelt's Prayer on June 6, 1944

It is great to once again read the prayer given by President Franklin Roosevelt on the evening of June 6, 1944 in response to the D-day invasion of Hitler's Europe. Our country could come together in this terrible war if the politicians would decide whether they wanted to either win or lose it.

My Fellow Americans:
Last night, when I spoke with you about the fall of Rome, I knew at that moment that troops of the United States and our Allies were crossing the Channel in another and greater operation. It has come to pass with success thus far. And so, in this poignant hour, I ask you to join with me in prayer:

Almighty God: Our sons, pride of our nation, this day have set upon a mighty endeavor, a struggle to preserve our Republic, our religion, and our civilization, and to set free a suffering humanity. Lead them straight and true; give strength to their arms, stoutness to their hearts, steadfastness in their faith.

They will need Thy blessings. Their road will be long and hard. For the enemy is strong. He may hurl back our forces. Success may not come with rushing speed, but we shall return again and again; and we know that by Thy grace, and by the righteousness of our cause, our sons will triumph.

They will be sore tried, by night and by day, without rest -- until the victory is won. The darkness will be rent by noise and flame. Men's souls will be shaken with the violences of war.
For these men are lately drawn from the ways of peace. They fight not for the lust of conquest. They fight to end conquest. They fight to liberate. They fight to let justice arise, and tolerance and goodwill among all Thy people. They yearn but for the end of battle, for their return to the haven of home. Some will never return. Embrace these, Father, and receive them, Thy heroic servants, into Thy kingdom.

And for us at home -- fathers, mothers, children, wives, sisters, and brothers of brave men overseas, whose thoughts and prayers are ever with them -- help us, Almighty God, to rededicate ourselves in renewed faith in Thee in this hour of great sacrifice. Many people have urged that I call the nation into a single day of special prayer. But because the road is long and the desire is great, I ask that our people devote themselves in a continuance of prayer. As we rise to each new day, and again when each day is spent, let words of prayer be on our lips, invoking Thy help to our efforts.

Give us strength, too -- strength in our daily tasks, to redouble the contributions we make in the physical and the material support of our armed forces. And let our hearts be stout, to wait out the long travail, to bear sorrows that may come, to impart our courage unto our sons where-soever they may be.

And, O Lord, give us faith. Give us faith in Thee; faith in our sons; faith in each other; faith in our united crusade. Let not the keeness of our spirit ever be dulled. Let not the impacts of temporary events, of temporal matters of but fleeting moment -- let not these deter us in our unconquerable purpose.

With Thy blessing, we shall prevail over the unholy forces of our enemy. Help us to conquer the apostles of greed and racial arrogances. Lead us to the saving of our country, and with our sister nations into a world unity that will spell a sure peace -- a peace invulnerable to the schemings of unworthy men. And a peace that will let all of men live in freedom, reaping the just rewards of their honest toil.

Thy will be done, Almighty God. Amen.
Franklin D. Roosevelt - June 6, 1944

WH0 AM I?

Here's something I think might ring a bell with you. In fact, if you're like most of us, you might have written what I'm going to tell you. It's about a person who calls their self a nice customer. It goes like this:

I'm a nice customer. You all know me. I'm the one who never complains, no matter what kind of service I get.

I'll go in a restaurant and I'll sit while the waitress gossips with her boy friend and never bothers to look and see if my hamburger is ready to go. Sometimes a party who came in after me gets my hamburger, but I don't say a word or complain when the girl tells me, "Oh. I'm sorry, I'll order another for you." I just wait.

It's the same when I go to a Hair Styling Salon to get my hair cut. I don't complain when the Stylist gets the back of my shirt wet with soapy water and doesn't apologize or when they talk to their co-worker about everything and disregard my explanation of what I wanted. No, I don't throw my weight around. I try to be thoughtful of the other person. And when they leave hair on the back of my neck I'm as polite as can be. I don't think rudeness in return is the answer.

The other day I stopped in at the neighborhood full service gas station. I waited for almost five minutes before the attendant took care of me. And when he did, he spilled gas on my fender and wiped the car windshield with an oily rag. I didn't expect him to thank me for stopping by, and he didn't. Naturally, I didn't complain about the service. Next time I'll drive several miles out of my way to find a new service station.

I never kick. I never nag. I never criticize and I wouldn't dream of making a scene, as I've seen people do in public places. I think that's uncalled for. No, I'm the nice customer. And I'll tell you what else I am.

I'm the customer who never comes back!

That's my way of doing for getting pushed around too much. That's why I take whatever you hand out, because I know I'm not coming back. It's true that this doesn't relieve my feelings right off as telling you what I think of you could, but in the long run it's far more deadly than blowing my top.

In fact, a nice customer like me multiplied by others of my kind can just about ruin a business. There's a lot of nice people in the world, just like me. When we get pushed far enough we go on down the street to another place of business and eat our hamburgers, get our hair cut and buy our goods in places where they're smart enough to hire help who appreciate nice customers.

He laughs best they say who laughs last. I laugh when I see you frantically spending your money on expensive advertising to get me back when you could have had me in the first place for a few kind words and a smile.

I don't care what business you're in. Maybe you live in a different town or maybe I've never heard of you. But if you're going broke or your business is bad, maybe there are enough people like me who do know you. I’M THE CUSTOMER WHO NEVER RETURNS!

COMPETITION

Below is a true story of just how to combat competition from moving in on your business. Of course the secret to a successful business is the word "empathy. "Just make sure you treat your employees and customers the way you would expect to be treated when the shoe is on the other foot.

The owner of a hair salon in a small town enjoyed the serenity of knowing that he was the only salon in town. He was responsible for cutting and styling the hair of just about every resident.

His income allowed him to live comfortably and even send all of his six children to college.

Unfortunately for him, big business came to his town. Right across the street from his busy little hair salon sprang one of those new full service salon franchises.

Immediately the media campaign began; ads in newspapers, magazines and bill boards announced, “EVERYTHING FOR $6.00!. $6.00 haircuts, $6.00 perms, $6.00 manicures, everything $6.00.”

Soon all of his customers, his neighbors began visiting the salon across the street and the man’s business sat empty.

Desperate he hired an expensive consultant.

“I’m finished,” he cried. “It’s impossible for me, little me, to compete with them.”

The consultant squinted his eves at the salon across the street. “Not just yet, not just yet.”

With that the consultant picked up the phone and dialed the town’s only billboard company.

“Yes, on top of our salon in Big letters put this message. WE FIX $6.00 HAIRCUTS.”

George Washington's Proclamation in 1789

I believe that every American and all those who believe in Freedom and God should read Washington's proclamation. I also believe that now is the time for America to stand up and proclaim that we will fight to the end to save this country from tyranny. I look forward to any respone to this Post.

Whereas it is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection and favor and whereas both Houses of Congress have by their joint Committee requested me "to recommend to the People of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many signal favors of Almighty God especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness."

Now therefore I do recommend and assign Thursday the 26th day of November next to be devoted by the People of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being, who is the beneficent Author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be. That we may then all unite in rendering unto him our sincere and humble thanks for his kind care and protection of the People of this Country previous to their becoming a Nation for the signal and manifold mercies, and the favorable interpositions of his Providence which we experienced in the tranquility [sic], union, and plenty, which we have since enjoyed for the peaceable and rational manner, in which we have been enabled to establish constitutions of government for our safety and happiness, and particularly the national One now lately instituted for the civil and religious liberty with which we are blessed; and the means we have of acquiring and diffusing useful knowledge; and in general for all the great and various favors which he hath been pleased to confer upon us.

And also that we may then unite in most humbly offering our prayers and supplications to the great Lord and Ruler of Nations and beseech him to pardon our national and other transgressions -- to enable us all, whether in public or private stations, to perform our several and relative duties properly and punctually -- to render our national government a blessing to all the people, by constantly being a Government of wise, just, and constitutional laws, discreetly and faithfully executed and obeyed -- to protect and guide all Sovereigns and Nations (especially such as have shewn kindness onto us) and to bless them with good government, peace, and concord. To promote the knowledge and practice of true religion and virtue, and the increase of science among them and us, and generally to grant unto all Mankind such a degree of temporal prosperity as he alone knows to be best.

Given under my hand at the City of New York the third day of October in the year of our Lord 1789. George Washington

Rest and Relaxation in London

This post is for those who just won't take life to serious and enjoy a little chuckle from time to time. Just imagine that those who can laugh their way through life can expect to live (8)years longer.

An American soldier, serving in World War II, had just returned from several weeks of intense action on the German front lines. He had finally been granted R&R and was on a train bound for London. The train was very crowded, so the soldier walked the length of the train, looking for an empty seat.

The only unoccupied seat was directly adjacent to a well-dressed middle-aged lady and was being used by her little dog. The war weary soldier asked, "Please, mam, may I sit in that seat?" The English woman looked down her nose at the soldier, sniffed and said, "You Americans are such a rude class of people. Can't you see my little Fifi is using this seat?"

The soldier walked away, determined to find a place to rest, but after another trip down to the end of the train, found himself again facing the woman with the dog.

Again he asked, "Please, lady, may I sit there? I'm very tired."

The English woman wrinkled her nose and snorted, "You Americans! Not only are you rude, you are also arrogant. Imagine!"

The soldier didn't say anything else; he leaned over, picked up the little dog, tossed it out the window of the train and sat down in the empty seat.

The woman shrieked and railed and demanded that someone defend her and chastise the soldier.

An English gentleman sitting across the aisle spoke up, "You know, sir, you Americans do seem to have a penchant for doing the wrong thing. You eat holding your fork in the wrong hand. You drive your autos on the wrong side of the road. And now, sir, you've thrown the wrong bitch out the window."

About your Permanent Wave

I am including some advice and suggestions in this post on how to take care of your new Professional permanent wave.

1. Contrary to some belief permanent waves are not permanent and unless your hair has some natural wave it should have a perm to help support the style.

2. Your experienced professional hairstylist should discuss your hair care problems plus the style and type perm best suited for you and your hair prior to the permanent.

3. You should expect your permanent to relax approximately fifteen percent (15%) after the first shampoo and style. It is always advisable to wait at least twenty four hours before shampooing the new permanent and remember that constant blow drying and stretching with the styling brush or curling iron requires the hair to be conditioned during each shampoo to help it keep its elasticity and sheen.

4. It is wise to let the Stylist do your style within one week after the perm to see that the condition and results are satisfactory. The Stylist and Salon will be glad and happy to correct any permanent that does not perform as you and the stylist agree it should after this service.

5. With the newer Styles of today and the fast pace of our society many people choose to do their own hair. Most Salons will be glad to prescribe the proper P.H. balanced shampoo and conditioners you should use to keep your CROWNING GLORY looking healthy and alive.

Grandma's Apron

This is really nice..... I hope you enjoy it just like I did....

The principle use of Grandma's apron was to protect the dress underneath, but along with that it served as a holder for removing hot pans from the oven. It was wonderful for drying children's tears, and on occasion was even used for cleaning out dirty ears. From the chicken-coop, the apron was used for carrying eggs, fussy chicks, and sometimes half-hatched eggs to be finished in the warming oven.

When company came, those aprons were ideal hiding places for shy kids. And when the weather was cold, grandma wrapped it around her arms. Those big old aprons wiped many a perspiring brow, bent over the hot wood stove.

Chips and kindling wood were brought into the kitchen in that apron. From the garden, it carried all sorts of vegetables. After the peas had been shelled it carried out the hulls. In the fall, the apron was used to bring in apples that had fallen from the trees.

When unexpected company drove up the road it was surprising how much furniture that old apron could dust in a matter of seconds.

When dinner was ready, Grandma walked out onto the porch, waved her apron, and the men knew it was time to come in from the fields to dinner. (Dinner is now the evening meal)

It will be a long time before someone invents something that will replace that "old-time apron" that served so many purposes.

REMEMBER THIS! "Grandma used to set her hot baked apple pies on the window sill to cool. Her granddaughter sets hers on the window sill to thaw."

Duck Hunters in Michigan

This is a story from a radio program. It is a true report of an incident in Michigan. I realise this has nothing to do with hair etc. but thought you might like to hear about how two duck hunters missed the duck!

A guy buys a brand new Lincoln Navigator for $42,500 and has
$560 monthly payments. He and a friend go duck hunting in winter, and of course all the lakes are frozen. These two guys go out on the lake with the guns, the dog, and of course the new vehicle. They drive out onto the lake ice and get ready. Now they want to make some kind of a natural landing area for the ducks, something for the decoys to float on. In order to make a hole large enough to look like something a wandering duck would fly down and land on, it is going to take a little more effort than an ice hole drill.

So, out of the back of the new Navigator comes a stick of dynamite with a short, 40-second fuse. Now these two Rocket Scientists do take into consideration that they want to place the stick of dynamite on the ice at a location far from where they and the new Navigator are standing, because they don't want to take the risk of slipping on the ice when they run from the burning fuse and possibly go up in smoke with the resulting blast. They light the 40-second fuse and throw the dynamite. Remember a couple of paragraphs back when I mentioned the vehicle, the guns and the dog? Let's talk about the dog: A highly trained Black Lab used for RETRIEVING. Especially things thrown by the owner.

You guessed it, the dog takes off at a high rate of doggy speed on the ice and captures the stick of dynamite with the burning 40-second fuse about the time it hits the ice. The two men yells, scream waving their arms and wonder what to do now. The dog, cheered on, keeps coming. One of the guys grabs the shotgun and shoots the dog. The shotgun is loaded with # 8 buckshot, hardly big enough to stop a Black Lab. The dog stops for a moment, slightly confused, but continues on. Another shot and this time the dog, still standing, becomes really confused and of course terrified, thinking these two geniuses have gone insane. The dog takes off to find cover, under the brand new Navigator. ----BOOM!---- Dog and Navigator are blown to bits and sink to the bottom of the lake in a very large hole, leaving the two idiots standing there with this "I can't believe this happened" look on their faces.

The insurance company says that sinking a vehicle in a lake by illegal use of explosives is not covered. He still had yet to make the first of those $560 a month payments! And you thought your day was not going well? Poor dog! :-(

Dirt Road

What's mainly wrong with society today is that too many Dirt Roads have been paved. There's not a problem in America today, crime, drugs, education, divorce, delinquency that wouldn't be remedied, if we just had more Dirt Roads, because Dirt Roads give character. People that live at the end of Dirt Roads learn early on that life is a bumpy ride. That it can jar you right down to your teeth sometimes, but it's worth it, if at the end is home...a loving spouse, happy kids and a dog.

We wouldn't have near the trouble with our educational system if our kids got their exercise walking a Dirt Road with other kids, from whom they learn how to get along. There was less crime in our streets before they were paved. Criminals didn't walk two dusty miles to rob or rape, if they knew they'd be welcomed by 5 barking dogs and a double barrel shotgun. And there were no drive by shootings. Our values were better when our roads were worse!

People did not worship their cars more than their kids, and motorists were more courteous, they didn't tailgate by riding the bumper or the guy in front would choke you with dust & bust your windshield with rocks. Dirt Roads taught patience. Dirt Roads were environmentally friendly, you didn't hop in your car for a quart of milk you walked to the barn for your milk. For your mail, you walked to the mail box.

What if it rained and the Dirt Road got washed out? That was the best part, then you stayed home and had some family time, roasted marshmallows and popped popcorn and pony rode on Daddy's shoulders and learned how to make prettier quilts than anybody. At the end of Dirt Roads, you soon learned that bad words tasted like soap.

Most paved roads lead to trouble, Dirt Roads more likely lead to a fishing creek or a swimming hole. At the end of a Dirt Road, the only time we even locked our car was in August, because if we didn't some neighbor would fill it with too much zucchini.

At the end of a Dirt Road, there was always extra springtime income, from when city dudes would get stuck, you'd have to hitch up a team and pull them out. Usually you got a dollar...always you got a new friend...at the end of a Dirt Road! !

Todays Hairstyles versus the 60's

The ultimate shaped face is of course oval. Just imagine the outline shape of an egg with the small end of the egg as your chin. There are many shapes from pear to apple and then some in between. Then there is the square compared to a rectangular box. This is where the correct hairstyle can improve the look making it resemble the perfect oval shape. For eons the Professionals have relied on the fact that in order to look great one should wear a hairstyle that compliments the face shape.

That being said, as you watch the female news reporters today there is no way they take any of these facts seriously. Being in the Beauty Profession, I some times flip channels because of their hairstyles. Today we are seeing reporters that should be promoting fashion along with news. I realize that some cute little female reporter with an oval face can wear her hairstyle any way and still look beautiful, but then the rest try to copy that hairstyle because at the time hers is long and straight. Maybe some have not looked at this because of the reporters flimsy attire but ask yourself as you flip channels on your television why do they all try to look alike? You would think the CEO’s of the networks would demand that something be done to improve the looks of their female news reporters. In the past the National Hairdressers and Cosmetologists Association almost dictated the new annual hairstyles as guides for the season. Even the President’s wives looked forward to promoting their hairstyles.

This article appeared in the Las Vegas Sun on January 14, 1963: Las Vegas will be the hair fashion center of the United States this week and several thousand of the leading hairdressers from all parts of the nation meeting at the Flamingo Hotel for the 43rd annual convention for the National Hairdressers and Cosmetologists Association convention visitors are also being accommodated at the Dunes, Tally-ho, Tropicana, Sands and Riviera hotels. This was the preview of the fall and winter hair fashions. One of the new ‘Dandy’ Hair Fashions Forecast was the Fine ‘n’ Dandy Coiffure. It was especially designed for that all-important event in a young lady’s life, her first formal party. Featured is the elegant small head look. Soft bangs of brushed waves and an extra note of interest to the eyes which are further emphasized by the wave crescents at the sides. I realize this is my opinion and I would certainly welcome any different point of view. http://www.hairarchives.com/private/archivesnew.htm

I Wish You Enough!

A friend told me this story the last time she was flying to California. I thought it was very touching and that it would be interesting to those who are or have reached their golden years. Of course it should be interesting to everyone since it is one of those facts of life that many folks face daily. This is just another one of my post that touched me and my hope is that you will also be touched.

At an airport I overheard a father and daughter in their last moments together.

They had announced her plane's departure and standing near the security gate, they hugged and he said, " I love you. I wish you enough."

She said, "Daddy, our life together has been more than enough. Your love is all I ever needed. I wish you enough, too, Daddy." They kissed him goodbye and she left.

He walked over toward the window where I was seated. Standing there I could see he wanted and needed to cry. I tried not to intrude on his privacy, but he welcomed me in by asking, "Did you ever say goodbye to someone knowing it would be forever?"

"Yes, I have," I replied. Saying that brought back memories I had of expressing my love and appreciation for all my Dad had done for me. Recognizing that his days were limited, I took the time to tell him face to face how much he meant to me. So I knew what this man was experiencing.

"Forgive me for asking but why is this a forever goodbye?" I asked. " I am old and she lives much too far away. I have challenges ahead and the reality is her next trip back will be for my funeral, " he said.

"When you were saying goodbye I heard you say 'I wish you enough." May I ask what that means?"

He began to smile. "That's a wish that has been handed down from other generations. My parents used to say it to everyone." He paused for a moment and looking up as if trying to remember it in detail, he smiled even more.

"When we said 'I wish you enough,' we were wanting the other person to have a life filled with enough good things to sustain them," he continued and then turning toward me he shared the following as if he were reciting it from memory.

"I wish you enough sun to keep your attitude bright.
I wish you enough rain to appreciate the sun more.
I wish you enough happiness to keep your spirit alive.
I wish you enough pain so that the smallest joys in life appear much bigger.
I wish you enough gain to satisfy your wanting.
I wish you enough loss to appreciate all that you possess.
I wish enough "Hello's" to get you through the final "Goodbye."

He then began to sob and walked away. My friends and loved ones, I wish you ENOUGH!!!

God's time Management for you!

Imagine there is a bank that credits your account each morning with $86,400. It carries over no balance from day to day. Every evening the bank deletes whatever part of the balance you failed to use during the day. What would you do? Draw out every cent, of course!!!! Each of us has such a bank. Its name is TIME.

Every morning, it credits you with 86,400 seconds. Every night it writes off, as lost, whatever of this you have failed to invest to good purpose. It carries over no balance. It allows no overdraft. Each day it opens a new account for you. You can deposit into it a morning prayer to Almighty God, praise and worship of Him, joy unspeakable and full of glory, continual prayer all day long—for others and for your own needs, thanksgiving, meal times, and snack times, tithes and offerings of pure love for the Creator of all good things, Bible reading and study, (and don’t forget to add interest—lots and lots of interest,) meditation, and a bed-time prayer as a final deposit along with sweet dreams.

Each night the time bank burns the remains of the day. If you fail to use the day’s deposits to the fullest, the loss is yours. There is no going back. There is no drawing against “tomorrow”. You must live in the present on today’s deposits. Invest it so as to get from it the utmost in health, happiness, blessings, peace of mind, prosperity, and success! The clock is running.
Make the most of today.

To realize the value of ONE YEAR, ask a student who failed a grade; or ask someone who has had a heart attack and missed a year of life; or ask an elderly person in a nursing home.

To realize the value of ONE MONTH, ask a mother who gave birth to a premature baby; or the cancer patient whose doctor just told him, “you have one month left.”

To realize the value of ONE WEEK, ask the editor of a weekly newspaper; or ask the single parent who just lost her job and won’t have a pay check for food or rent.

To realize the value of ONE HOUR, ask the lovers who are waiting to meet or the African child waiting for an air drop of food, or a wounded soldier waiting to be carried off the battlefield.

To realize the value of ONE MINUTE, ask a person who missed the train or ask the astronaut counting down to blastoff.

To realize the value of ONE SECOND, ask a person who just avoided an accident, or ask a person who fell asleep in bed smoking.

To realize the value of ONE MILLISECOND, ask the person who won a silver medal in the Olympics; or the Lord, Jesus Christ, who will return again in the twinkling of an eye.
Treasure every moment that you have! And treasure it more because you shared it with someone special, special enough to spend your time with you because He invented it—in the beginning.

And remember that time waits for no one. Time marches on. Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is mystery. Today is a gift. That’s why it’s called the present!! Hours are such priceless things—each one of them has sixty wings—with which they fly on their unseen track; and not a minute ever comes back.

Friends are very rare jewels, indeed. They make you smile and encourage you to succeed. They lend an ear, they share a word of praise, and they always want to open their heart to us. And if you have a friend who prays with you, you truly are blessed. Show God how much you love Him. Use your gift of time by investing it in Him.

Show your friends how much you care by investing your time in them—love them, pray for them. Show someone who does not know God how much you love them—take time to pray for those who spitefully use you or who persecute you .

And then it's Winter

I thought this was worth posting because it does hit home to all those thinking of retiring and to those who have already reached that thresh hold. It has nothing to do with hair except that at this age for some there is none and for others their appearance including their hair and makeup is very important.

It seems just yesterday that I was young, just married and embarking on my new life with my mate. And yet in a way, it seems like eons ago, and I wonder where all the years went. I know that I lived them all. And I have glimpses of how it was back then and of all my hopes and dreams. But, here it is:

The winter of my life and it catches me by surprise. How did I get here so fast? Where did the years go and where did my life go? And where did my youth go? I remember well ... Seeing older people through the years and thinking that those older people were years away from me and that winter was so far off that I could not fathom it or imagine fully what it would be like. But, here it is ...

My age is beginning to show and we are now those older folks that we used to see and never thought we'd be. Each day now, I find that just getting a shower is a real target for the day! And taking a nap is not a treat anymore. It's mandatory! Cause if I don't on my own free will ... I just fall asleep where I sit!

And so, now I enter into this new season of my life unprepared for all the aches and pains and the loss of strength and ability to go and do things. But, at least I know, that though the winter has come, and I'm not sure how long it will last, this I know, that when it's over - It's over!

Yes, I have regrets. There are things I wish I hadn't done and things I should have done. But indeed, there are many things I'm happy to have done. It's all in a lifetime.

So, if you're not in your winter yet ... Let me remind you, that it will be here faster than you think. So, whatever you would like to accomplish in your life, please do it now! Life goes by quickly. Do what you can today, because you can never be sure whether this is your winter or not! You have no promise that you will see all the seasons of your life . So, live today, and say all the things that you want your loved ones to remember.

"Life is God's gift to you. The way you live your life is your gift to God, and those who come after. Make it a fantastic one!"

One's Attitude in Life!

I was struck by this story about one's attitude in life. Some are born with it and others have to cultivate it but as we travel the road of life I believe this 92 year old lady has it right. Her 5 point rules of how to be happy is really your attitude once you reach those golden years. As you can see her attitude toward her well coifed hair and appearance tells you plenty about her attitude. This is her story:

The 92-year-old, petite, well-poised and proud lady, who is fully dressed each morning by eight o'clock, with her hair fashionably coifed and makeup perfectly applied, even though she is legally blind, moved to a nursing home today. Her husband of 70 years recently passed away, making the move necessary.

After many hours of waiting patiently in the lobby of the nursing home, she smiled sweetly when told her room was ready.

As she maneuvered her walker to the elevator, I provided a visual description of her tiny room, including the eyelet sheets that had been hung on her window. "I love it," she stated with the enthusiasm of an eight-year-old having just been presented with a new puppy.

"Mrs. Jones, you haven't seen the room.... just wait."

"That doesn't have anything to do with it," she replied. "Happiness is something you decide on ahead of time. Whether I like my room or not doesn't depend on how the furniture is arranged ... it's how I arrange my mind. I already decided to love it ...

"It's a decision I make every morning when I wake up. I have a choice; I can spend the day in bed recounting the difficulty I have with the parts of my body that no longer work, or get out of bed and be thankful for the ones that do. Each day is a gift, and as long as my eyes open I'll focus on the new day and all the happy memories I've stored away, just for this time in my life.

Old age is like a bank account. My advice to you would be to deposit a lot of happiness in the bank account of memories. Thank you for your part in filling my Memory bank. I am still depositing.

Remember the five simple rules to be happy:

1. Free your heart from hatred.
2. Free your mind from worries.
3. Live simply.
4. Give more.
5. Expect less. No one can go back and make a brand new start. Anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending.