My Favourite Things

HAPPY AUSTRALIA DAY

2012-01-26T10:52:00.000+11:00

MY COUNTRY
A poem by Dorothea Mackellar
The love of field and coppice,
Of green and shaded lanes,
Of ordered woods and gardens
Is running in your veins,
Strong love of grey-blue distance,
Brown streams and soft dim skies,
I know but cannot share it,
My love is otherwise.
I love a sunburnt country,
A land of sweeping plains,
Of ragged mountain ranges,
Of droughts and flooding rains;
I love her far horizons,
I love her jewel-sea,
Her beauty and her terror-
The wide brown land for me!
The tragic ringbarked forests,
Stark white beneath the moon,
The sapphire misted mountains,
The hot gold hush of noon,
Green tangle of the brushes,
Where lithe lianas coil,
And orchids deck the tree tops
And ferns the crimson soil.
Core of my heart, my country!
Her pitiless blue sky,
When sick at heart around us
We see the cattle die-
But then the grey clouds gather
And we can bless again
The drumming of an army,
The steady soaking rain.
Core of my heart my country!
Land of the Rainbow Gold,
For flood and fire and famine
She pays us back threefold,
Over the thirsty paddocks,
Watch after many days,
The filmy veil of greenness
That thickens as we gaze.
An opal-hearted country,
A wilful lavish land-
All you who have not loved her,
You will not understand-
Though earth holds many splendours
Wherever I may die,
I know to what brown country,
My homing thoughts will fly.

THE STORY BEHIND THE PICTURE OF THE PRAYING HANDS

2012-01-24T10:03:00.002+11:00

Many of us have seen the picture of "The Praying Hands", which is present in many Christian homes but would almost certainly not have heard the moving story behind this popular picture.

Here is the story....

Back in the fifteenth century, in a tiny village near Nuremberg, lived a family with eighteen children. Eighteen! In order merely to keep food on the table for this mob, the father and head of the household, a goldsmith by profession, worked almost eighteen hours a day at his trade and any other paying chore he could find in the neighborhood.

Despite their seemingly hopeless condition, two of the elder children, Albrecht and Albert, had a dream. They both wanted to pursue their talent for art, but they knew full well that their father would never be financially able to send either of them to Nuremberg to study at the Academy.

After many long discussions at night in their crowded bed, the two boys finally worked out a pact. They would toss a coin. The loser would go down into the nearby mines and, with his earnings, support his brother while he attended the academy. Then, when that brother who won the toss completed his studies, in four years, he would support the other brother at the academy, either with sales of his artwork or, if necessary, also by laboring in the mines.

They tossed a coin on a Sunday morning after church. Albrecht Durer won the toss and went off to Nuremberg. Albert went down into the dangerous mines and, for the next four years, financed his brother, whose work at the academy was almost an immediate sensation. Albrecht's etchings, his woodcuts, and his oils were far better than those of most of his professors, and by the time he graduated, he was beginning to earn considerable fees for his commissioned works.

When the young artist returned to his village, the Durer family held a festive dinner on their lawn to celebrate Albrecht's triumphant homecoming. After a long and memorable meal, punctuated with music and laughter, Albrecht rose from his honored position at the head of the table to drink a toast to his beloved brother for the years of sacrifice that had enabled Albrecht to fulfill his ambition. His closing words were, "And now, Albert, blessed brother of mine, now it is your turn. Now you can go to Nuremberg to pursue your dream, and I will take care of you."

All heads turned in eager expectation to the far end of the table where Albert sat, tears streaming down his pale face, shaking his lowered head from side to side while he sobbed and repeated, over and over, "No.. no.. no.. no."

Finally, Albert rose and wiped the tears from his cheeks. He glanced down the long table at the faces he loved, and then, holding his hands close to his right cheek, he said softly, "No, brother. I cannot go to Nuremberg. It is too late for me. Look... Look what four years in the mines have done to my hands! The bones in every finger have been smashed at least once, and lately I have been suffering from arthritis so badly In my right hand that I cannot even hold a glass to return your toast, much less make delicate lines on parchment or canvas with a pen or a brush. No, brother...for me it is too late."

More than 450 years have passed. By now, Albrecht Durer's hundreds of masterful portraits, pen and silver-point sketches, watercolors, charcoals, woodcuts, and copper engravings hang in every great museum in the world, but the odds are great that you, like most people, are familiar with only one of Albrecht Durer's works. More than merely being familiar with it, you very well may have a reproduction hanging in your home or office.

One day, to pay homage to Albert for all that he had sacrificed, Albrecht Durer

painstakingly drew his brother's abused hands with palms together and thin fingers stretched skyward. He called his powerful drawing simply "Hands," but the entire world almost immediately opened their hearts to his great masterpiece and renamed his tribute of love "The Praying Hands."

The next time you see a copy of that touching creation, take a second look. Let it be your reminder, if you still need one, that no one - no one - - ever makes it alone!

HAPPY NEW YEAR FOR 2012

2011-12-31T18:08:00.000+11:00

I would like to wish everyone a very happy,

very safe, very healthy and very prosperous

New Year for 2012.

Auld Lang Syne ["for (the sake of) old times".]

Should old acquaintance be forgot,  and never brought to mind ? 

Should old acquaintance be forgot,  and old lang syne ?

CHORUS:

For auld lang syne, my dear,

for auld lang syne,

we'll take a cup of kindness yet,

for auld lang syne.

And surely you’ll buy your pint cup ! and surely I’ll buy mine ! 

And we'll take a cup o’ kindness yet, for auld lang syne.

CHORUS

We two have run about the slopes, and picked the daisies fine; 

But we’ve wandered many a weary foot,  since auld lang syne.

CHORUS

We two have paddled in the stream, from morning sun till dine;  But seas between us broad have roared  since auld lang syne.

CHORUS

And there’s a hand my trusty friend ! 

And give us a hand o’ thine! 

And we’ll take a right good-will draught,  for auld lang syne.

CHORUS

A NEW YEAR THOUGHT

2011-12-29T11:43:00.000+11:00

Even though none of us can go back and make a brand new start,

Anyone can start today and make a brand new finish.

HAPPY CHRISTMAS ONE & ALL

2011-12-25T10:26:00.001+11:00

Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.

(Matthew 1:23)

Glory to God in the highest, and on Earth peace, good will toward men

(Luke 2:14)

Why Jesus is Better than Santa Claus

2011-12-12T09:31:00.000+11:00

Santa lives at the North Pole...

JESUS is everywhere.

Santa rides in a sleigh...

JESUS rides on the wind and walks on the water.

Santa comes but once a year...

JESUS is an ever present help.

Santa fills your stockings with goodies...
JESUS supplies all your needs.

Santa comes down your chimney uninvited...
JESUS stands at your door and knocks, and then enters your heart when invited.

You have to wait in line to see Santa...
JESUS is as close as the mention of His name.

Santa lets you sit on his lap...
JESUS lets you rest in His arms.

Santa doesn't know your name, all he can say is "Hi little boy or girl, what's your name?"...

JESUS knew our name before we were born. Not only does He know our name, He knows our address too. He knows our history and future and He even knows how many hairs are on our heads.

Santa has a belly like a bowl full of jelly...
JESUS has a heart full of love.

All Santa can offer is HO HO HO...
JESUS offers health, help and hope.

Santa says "You better not cry"...
JESUS says "Cast all your cares on me for I care for you."

Santa's little helpers make toys...
JESUS makes new life, mends wounded hearts, repairs broken homes and builds mansions.

Santa may make you chuckle but...
JESUS gives you joy that is your strength.

While Santa puts gifts under your tree...
JESUS became our gift and died on a tree... the cross.

We need to put Christ back in CHRISTmas, Jesus is still the reason for the season.

"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life" (John 3:16).

FROM: http://www.holytrinitynewrochelle.org/yourti93646.html
[Many more wonderful Christian items on this site]

If Time Is All I Have by James Blunt

2011-12-09T09:16:00.004+11:00

There's a timely message in this video for this time of the year (well, any time of the year really)!

Please drive safely always but especially over this 2011 Christmas/New Year period.

It's a beautiful, but sad, song from a beautiful man and the message is clear.

4 Outlet: 1 Foot Switch Powerboard with Surge & Telecom's Surge Protection : Greentopia eco & green products

2011-11-19T10:28:00.000+11:00

4 Outlet: 1 Foot Switch Powerboard with Surge & Telecom's Surge Protection : Greentopia eco & green products

Remembrance Day 2011

2011-11-11T14:32:00.001+11:00

In Flanders Fields

In Flanders fields the poppies blow

Between the crosses, row on row,

That mark our place: and in the sky

The larks, still bravely singing, fly

Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago

We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,

Loved and were loved, and now we lie

In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:

To you from failing hands we throw

The torch; be yours to hold it high.

If ye break faith with us who die

We shall not sleep, though poppies grow

In Flanders fields.

John McCrae (1872–1918)

Remembrance Day (also known as Poppy Day, Armistice Day and Veterans Day) is a memorial day observed in Commonwealth countries since the end of World War I to remember the members of their armed forces who have died in the line of duty. This day, or alternative dates, are also recognized as special days for war remembrances in many non-Commonwealth countries. Remembrance Day is observed on 11 November to recall the official end of World War I on that date in 1918; hostilities formally ended "at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month" of 1918 with the German signing of the Armistice ("at the 11th hour" refers to the passing of the 11th hour, or 11:00 a.m.)

The day was specifically dedicated by King George V on 7 November 1919 as a day of remembrance of members of the armed forces who were killed during World War I. This was possibly done upon the suggestion of Edward George Honey to Wellesley Tudor Pole, who established two ceremonial periods of remembrance based on events in 1917.^[1]

The red remembrance poppy has become a familiar emblem of Remembrance Day due to the poem "In Flanders Fields". These poppies bloomed across some of the worst battlefields of Flanders in World War I, their brilliant red colour an appropriate symbol for the blood spilled in the war.

Australia

In Australia, Remembrance Day is always observed on 11 November regardless of the day of the week and is not a public holiday. Some institutions observe two minute's silence at 11 a.m. Through a programme named Read 2 Remember, children read the "Pledge of Remembrance" by Rupert McCall and teachers deliver specially developed resources to help children understand the significance of the day and the resilience of those who have fought for their country, and call on children to also be resilient when facing difficult times. Services are held at 11 a.m. at war memorials and schools in suburbs and cities across the country, at which the "Last Post" is sounded by a bugler and a one-minute silence is observed. In recent decades, however, Remembrance Day has been largely eclipsed as the national day of war commemoration by ANZAC Day (25 April), which is a public holiday in all states. Remembrance Day is a time when people can pay their respects to the substantial number of soldiers who died in battle.

For The Fallen

With proud thanksgiving, a mother for her children,
England mourns for her dead across the sea.
Flesh of her flesh they were, spirit of her spirit,
Fallen in the cause of the free.

Solemn the drums thrill: Death august and royal
Sings sorrow up into immortal spheres.
There is music in the midst of desolation
And a glory that shines upon our tears.

They went with songs to the battle, they were young,
Straight of limb, true of eye, steady and aglow.
They were staunch to the end against odds uncounted,
They fell with their faces to the foe.

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old;
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.

They mingle not with their laughing comrades again;
They sit no more at familiar tables at home;
They have no lot in our labour of the day-time;
They sleep beyond England's foam.

But where our desires are and our hopes profound,
Felt as a well-spring that is hidden from sight,
To the innermost heart of their own land they are known
As the stars are known to the Night;

As the stars that shall be bright when we are dust,
Moving in marches upon the heavenly plain,
As the stars that are starry in the time of our darkness,
To the end, to the end, they remain.

Laurence Binyon (1869–1943)

evi_mort's photostream

2011-10-26T13:54:00.001+11:00

evi_mort's photostream on Flickr.

SPRING BEAUTIFUL SPRING

2011-10-11T11:55:00.000+11:00

I've been a little ill & a little pre-occupied with other things for a while now but thought I'd pop in today and give you some pretty pictures from my Spring garden to look at for a while. Best wishes to all.

Evermore - Hey Boys and Girls

2011-09-14T12:08:00.000+10:00

REMEMBRANCE 11 September 2001-11 September 2011

2011-09-11T15:17:00.000+10:00

A prayer for all those affected by the events of Sept 11:

May God give you...

For every storm, a rainbow,

For every tear, a smile,

For every care, a promise,

And a blessing in each and every trial.

For every problem life sends,

A faithful friend to share,

For every sigh, a sweet song,

And an answer for each and every prayer.

Amen

We are thinking of you and praying for you at this very sad time.

Also The Lungs of The World

2011-09-08T12:24:00.002+10:00

Something Beautiful

2011-09-05T13:01:00.002+10:00

OWL CITY - MAGIC

2011-08-25T13:18:00.000+10:00

More Wonderful Owl City Music

2011-08-14T13:38:00.002+10:00

Special Music Just For You

2011-08-14T13:24:00.001+10:00

I've discovered this absolutely wonderful band called Owl City - I love, love, love their music.
Here's "Galaxies" for your listening pleasure - more will follow:

Save Our Forests, Save Our Wildlife

2011-07-31T12:47:00.000+10:00

APOLOGY

2011-07-18T11:51:00.000+10:00

I'm just popping in for a minute of two to say sorry for the lack of content here over the past few weeks.

I've been laid low by, not one, but two doses of a flu virus (a month apart) - I'm feeling very weak & uncoordinated and tissues, cough mixture, ventolin & now anti-biotics are my constant companions.

All this, I might add, after having had the flu injection earlier in the year as well, so there must be many, many different strains out there.

Anyway I will get back to posting as soon as I'm feeling human again. Love to all.

ASAP = Always Say A Prayer

God, our Father, walk through my home and take away all my worries and illnesses and please watch over and heal my family, and friends, in Jesus precious name. Amen

Gerry Harvey you should be ashamed!

2011-07-15T10:24:00.000+10:00

I LOVE WINTER - HERE'S A FAVOURITE POEM TO CELEBRATE

2011-06-27T12:12:00.005+10:00

Woods in Winter

by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

When winter winds are piercing chill,

And through the hawthorn blows the gale,

With solemn feet I tread the hill,

That overbrows the lonely vale.

O'er the bare upland, and away

Through the long reach of desert woods,

The embracing sunbeams chastely play,

And gladden these deep solitudes.

Where, twisted round the barren oak,

The summer vine in beauty clung,

And summer winds the stillness broke,

The crystal icicle is hung.

Where, from their frozen urns, mute springs

Pour out the river's gradual tide,

Shrilly the skater's iron rings,

And voices fill the woodland side.

Alas! how changed from the fair scene,

When birds sang out their mellow lay,

And winds were soft, and woods were green,

And the song ceased not with the day!

But still wild music is abroad,

Pale, desert woods! within your crowd;

And gathering winds, in hoarse accord,

Amid the vocal reeds pipe loud.

Chill airs and wintry winds! my ear

Has grown familiar with your song;

I hear it in the opening year,

I listen, and it cheers me long.

QUEEN - FRIENDS WILL BE FRIENDS

2011-06-04T14:50:00.000+10:00

THESE ARE THE DAYS OF OUR LIVES By QUEEN

2011-05-23T15:24:00.003+10:00

I love this song - I love Queen - I especially love Freddie Mercury's wonderful voice & I miss them a lot so I thought I would give you a Queen song each and every week until the songs run out - Enjoy!

AUTUMN COLOUR IN THE GARDEN

2011-05-14T13:12:00.000+10:00

I took a walk in my chilly Autumn garden the other day and lo and behold there was still lots of beauty to see. I hope you enjoy seeing the photos as much as I enjoyed taking them..

TO ALL THE MUMS

2011-05-08T14:05:00.002+10:00

ANZAC DAY - LEST WE FORGET

2011-04-25T15:41:00.002+10:00

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old;

Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning

We will remember them.

Some of my family members who served in the armed forces:

World War 1

Leslie Frankland ‘Les’ STRINGER (1896-1985) - My Poppa

6th Battalion, 5th Reinforcement - Private. Service Number/s: V359143/2036

Les was wounded at Anzac Cove, Gallipoli on 7 Aug 1915 and that was just 9 days before his 19th birthday. He was taken to Hospital in Malta where his right foot was amputated, but he later had to have his right leg amputated (below the knee) after being transferred to Wandsworth Hospital in England.

William James 'Will' STRINGER (1886-1948)

2 Coy, 4 Depot - 71 Infantry (City of Ballarat Rifles) - Sergeant

Charles Robert MORTOMORE (1888-1917) MM

37th Bn Australian Inf - Private - KIA

Pte Mortomore enlisted in the AIF on 20 Mar 1916 and served with the 37th Infantry Battalion in France where he won the MM (Military Medal) in Dec 1916. He died of wounds on 27 Feb 1917. A white cross marks his grave in the Trois Arbres Military Cemetery near Armentieres, France.

“At ARMENTIERES on the night 25th/26th December, 1916, while acting as a scout, he displayed great daring in getting through the enemy wire and obtaining information preparatory to a raid on the enemy trenches. When the scout next to him was wounded he carried him back across No Man's Land to our lines, and then returned to his work. When a party of the enemy commenced repairing the damaged wire, he watched from a distance of five yards, and sent back information which proved of great value to our raiding party.” Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 116

World War 2

Harold Ernest 'Harry' MORTIMORE (1914-2005) - My Dad

21 May 1940 Enlisted in 2/14 Aust Inf Batt - Service Number: VX16042 - Private, Corporal, Sergeant, Lieutenant.

Served in Middle East - Syria, Palestine etc

7 Jun 1942 Commanded 12 Platoon-39 Infantry Battalion on infamous Kokoda Track.

3 Jun 1947 Demobbed after completing service at Victoria Barracks, Melbourne.

Lt Harold Ernest MORTIMORE Anzac Day 1995 - Melbourne

Samuel Henry 'Snowy' MORTIMORE (1904-1981)

Service Number: CV 35647 - Grader Driver

Because he had previously lost an eye breaking in horses he was, of course, unfit for the armed forced. Uncle Snowy served his country in the Civil Constructional Corps, grading roads, air strips etc within Australia and in particular in the Northern Territory. He was seconded to the Department of Interior at Alice Springs on 21 Mar 1943. Discharged from the CCC on 13 Feb 1946 when the Corp was disbanded.

Edward James 'Eddie' STRINGER

Service Number: VX25709

Norman Leslie 'Norm' STRINGER

17 May 1940 Enlisted in 2/14 Aust Inf Batt - Service Number: VX15638 - Corporal. Served in Middle East - Syria, Palestine etc. Uncle Norm was discharged from the Army on 6 Dec 1945.

Owen Franklin 'Frank' STRINGER

23 Dec 1941 Enlisted in 2/5 Aust Commando Squadron - Service Number: VX69514

Uncle Frank was discharged from the Army on 3 Apr 1946

c.1939 Norm, Eddie, Frank Stringer; Malcolm McDonald with family.

Frank Stringer is in the centre

Malcolm John 'Mac' MCDONALD

Service Number:

Edward Frederick STRINGER

Service Number: 55998

William James Andrew 'Bill' WEBB

5 Nov 1929 Airman with the RAAF - Service No: 1159 - Place of enlistment: Point Cook, Victoria, Australia

1939 Army Service Number: VX1669 Served in Middle East - Syria, Palestine etc.

THE EASTER STORY - PART 3

2011-04-24T11:26:00.001+10:00

Matthew 28 (New King James Version)

He Is Risen

1 Now after the Sabbath, as the first day of the week began to dawn, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to see the tomb. 2 And behold, there was a great earthquake; for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat on it. 3 His countenance was like lightning, and his clothing as white as snow. 4 And the guards shook for fear of him, and became like dead men. 5 But the angel answered and said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. 6 He is not here; for He is risen, as He said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. 7 And go quickly and tell His disciples that He is risen from the dead, and indeed He is going before you into Galilee; there you will see Him. Behold, I have told you.” 8 So they went out quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to bring His disciples word.

The Women Worship the Risen Lord

9 And as they went to tell His disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, “Rejoice!” So they came and held Him by the feet and worshiped Him. 10 Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell My brethren to go to Galilee, and there they will see Me.”

The Soldiers Are Bribed

11 Now while they were going, behold, some of the guard came into the city and reported to the chief priests all the things that had happened. 12 When they had assembled with the elders and consulted together, they gave a large sum of money to the soldiers, 13 saying, “Tell them, ‘His disciples came at night and stole Him away while we slept.’ 14 And if this comes to the governor’s ears, we will appease him and make you secure.” 15 So they took the money and did as they were instructed; and this saying is commonly reported among the Jews until this day.

The Great Commission

16 Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had appointed for them. 17 When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some doubted.

18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.

Happy Easter

From Our Family To You & Yours

THE EASTER STORY - PART 2

2011-04-22T11:24:00.001+10:00

Matthew 27 (New King James Version)

Jesus Handed Over to Pontius Pilate

1 When morning came, all the chief priests and elders of the people plotted against Jesus to put Him to death. 2 And when they had bound Him, they led Him away and delivered Him to Pontius Pilate the governor.

Judas Hangs Himself

3 Then Judas, His betrayer, seeing that He had been condemned, was remorseful and brought back the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders, 4 saying, “I have sinned by betraying innocent blood.”

And they said, “What is that to us? You see to it!”

5 Then he threw down the pieces of silver in the temple and departed, and went and hanged himself.

6 But the chief priests took the silver pieces and said, “It is not lawful to put them into the treasury, because they are the price of blood.” 7 And they consulted together and bought with them the potter’s field, to bury strangers in. 8 Therefore that field has been called the Field of Blood to this day.

9 Then was fulfilled what was spoken by Jeremiah the prophet, saying, “And they took the thirty pieces of silver, the value of Him who was priced, whom they of the children of Israel priced, 10 and gave them for the potter’s field, as the LORD directed me.”

Jesus Faces Pilate

11 Now Jesus stood before the governor. And the governor asked Him, saying, “Are You the King of the Jews?”

Jesus said to him, “It is as you say.” 12 And while He was being accused by the chief priests and elders, He answered nothing.

13 Then Pilate said to Him, “Do You not hear how many things they testify against You?” 14 But He answered him not one word, so that the governor marveled greatly.

Taking the Place of Barabbas

15 Now at the feast the governor was accustomed to releasing to the multitude one prisoner whom they wished. 16 And at that time they had a notorious prisoner called Barabbas. 17 Therefore, when they had gathered together, Pilate said to them, “Whom do you want me to release to you? Barabbas, or Jesus who is called Christ?” 18 For he knew that they had handed Him over because of envy.

19 While he was sitting on the judgment seat, his wife sent to him, saying, “Have nothing to do with that just Man, for I have suffered many things today in a dream because of Him.”

20 But the chief priests and elders persuaded the multitudes that they should ask for Barabbas and destroy Jesus. 21 The governor answered and said to them, “Which of the two do you want me to release to you?”

They said, “Barabbas!”

22 Pilate said to them, “What then shall I do with Jesus who is called Christ?”

They all said to him, “Let Him be crucified!”

23 Then the governor said, “Why, what evil has He done?”

But they cried out all the more, saying, “Let Him be crucified!”

24 When Pilate saw that he could not prevail at all, but rather that a tumult was rising, he took water and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, “I am innocent of the blood of this just Person. You see to it.”

25 And all the people answered and said, “His blood be on us and on our children.”

26 Then he released Barabbas to them; and when he had scourged Jesus, he delivered Him to be crucified.

The Soldiers Mock Jesus

27 Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the Praetorium and gathered the whole garrison around Him. 28 And they stripped Him and put a scarlet robe on Him. 29 When they had twisted a crown of thorns, they put it on His head, and a reed in His right hand. And they bowed the knee before Him and mocked Him, saying, “Hail, King of the Jews!” 30 Then they spat on Him, and took the reed and struck Him on the head. 31 And when they had mocked Him, they took the robe off Him, put His own clothes on Him, and led Him away to be crucified.

The King on a Cross

32 Now as they came out, they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name. Him they compelled to bear His cross. 33 And when they had come to a place called Golgotha, that is to say, Place of a Skull, 34 they gave Him sour wine mingled with gall to drink. But when He had tasted it, He would not drink.

35 Then they crucified Him, and divided His garments, casting lots, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet:

“ They divided My garments among them,

And for My clothing they cast lots.”

36 Sitting down, they kept watch over Him there. 37 And they put up over His head the accusation written against Him: THIS IS JESUS THE KING OF THE JEWS.

38 Then two robbers were crucified with Him, one on the right and another on the left. 39 And those who passed by blasphemed Him, wagging their heads 40 and saying, “You who destroy the temple and build it in three days, save Yourself! If You are the Son of God, come down from the cross.”  41 Likewise the chief priests also, mocking with the scribes and elders, said, 42 “He saved others; Himself He cannot save. If He is the King of Israel, let Him now come down from the cross, and we will believe Him. 43 He trusted in God; let Him deliver Him now if He will have Him; for He said, ‘I am the Son of God.’”  44 Even the robbers who were crucified with Him reviled Him with the same thing.

Jesus Dies on the Cross

45 Now from the sixth hour until the ninth hour there was darkness over all the land. 46 And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?” that is, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?”

47 Some of those who stood there, when they heard that, said, “This Man is calling for Elijah!” 48 Immediately one of them ran and took a sponge, filled it with sour wine and put it on a reed, and offered it to Him to drink.

49 The rest said, “Let Him alone; let us see if Elijah will come to save Him.”

50 And Jesus cried out again with a loud voice, and yielded up His spirit.

51 Then, behold, the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom; and the earth quaked, and the rocks were split, 52 and the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised; 53 and coming out of the graves after His resurrection, they went into the holy city and appeared to many.

54 So when the centurion and those with him, who were guarding Jesus, saw the earthquake and the things that had happened, they feared greatly, saying, “Truly this was the Son of God!”

55 And many women who followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering to Him, were there looking on from afar, 56 among whom were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the mother of Zebedee’s sons.

Jesus Buried in Joseph’s Tomb

57 Now when evening had come, there came a rich man from Arimathea, named Joseph, who himself had also become a disciple of Jesus. 58 This man went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. Then Pilate commanded the body to be given to him. 59 When Joseph had taken the body, he wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, 60 and laid it in his new tomb which he had hewn out of the rock; and he rolled a large stone against the door of the tomb, and departed. 61 And Mary Magdalene was there, and the other Mary, sitting opposite the tomb.

Pilate Sets a Guard

62 On the next day, which followed the Day of Preparation, the chief priests and Pharisees gathered together to Pilate, 63 saying, “Sir, we remember, while He was still alive, how that deceiver said, ‘After three days I will rise.’ 64 Therefore command that the tomb be made secure until the third day, lest His disciples come by night and steal Him away, and say to the people, ‘He has risen from the dead.’ So the last deception will be worse than the first.”

65 Pilate said to them, “You have a guard; go your way, make it as secure as you know how.” 66 So they went and made the tomb secure, sealing the stone and setting the guard.

THE EASTER STORY - PART 1

2011-04-21T17:36:00.002+10:00

Matthew 26 (New King James Version)

The Plot to Kill Jesus

1 Now it came to pass, when Jesus had finished all these sayings, that He said to His disciples, 2 “You know that after two days is the Passover, and the Son of Man will be delivered up to be crucified.”

3 Then the chief priests, the scribes, and the elders of the people assembled at the palace of the high priest, who was called Caiaphas, 4 and plotted to take Jesus by trickery and kill Him. 5 But they said, “Not during the feast, lest there be an uproar among the people.”

The Anointing at Bethany

6 And when Jesus was in Bethany at the house of Simon the leper, 7 a woman came to Him having an alabaster flask of very costly fragrant oil, and she poured it on His head as He sat at the table. 8 But when His disciples saw it, they were indignant, saying, “Why this waste? 9 For this fragrant oil might have been sold for much and given to the poor.”

10 But when Jesus was aware of it, He said to them, “Why do you trouble the woman? For she has done a good work for Me. 11 For you have the poor with you always, but Me you do not have always. 12 For in pouring this fragrant oil on My body, she did it for My burial. 13 Assuredly, I say to you, wherever this gospel is preached in the whole world, what this woman has done will also be told as a memorial to her.”

Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus

14 Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests 15 and said, “What are you willing to give me if I deliver Him to you?” And they counted out to him thirty pieces of silver. 16 So from that time he sought opportunity to betray Him.

Jesus Celebrates Passover with His Disciples

17 Now on the first day of the Feast of the Unleavened Bread the disciples came to Jesus, saying to Him, “Where do You want us to prepare for You to eat the Passover?”

18 And He said, “Go into the city to a certain man, and say to him, ‘The Teacher says, “My time is at hand; I will keep the Passover at your house with My disciples.”’”

19 So the disciples did as Jesus had directed them; and they prepared the Passover.

20 When evening had come, He sat down with the twelve. 21 Now as they were eating, He said, “Assuredly, I say to you, one of you will betray Me.”

22 And they were exceedingly sorrowful, and each of them began to say to Him, “Lord, is it I?”

23 He answered and said, “He who dipped his hand with Me in the dish will betray Me. 24 The Son of Man indeed goes just as it is written of Him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would have been good for that man if he had not been born.”

25 Then Judas, who was betraying Him, answered and said, “Rabbi, is it I?”

He said to him, “You have said it.”

Jesus Institutes the Lord’s Supper

26 And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, blessedand broke it, and gave it to the disciples and said, “Take, eat; this is My body.”

27 Then He took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. 28 For this is My blood of the newcovenant, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. 29 But I say to you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it new with you in My Father’s kingdom.”

30 And when they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.

Jesus Predicts Peter’s Denial

31 Then Jesus said to them, “All of you will be made to stumble because of Me this night, for it is written:

‘ I will strike the Shepherd,

And the sheep of the flock will be scattered.’

32 But after I have been raised, I will go before you to Galilee.” 33 Peter answered and said to Him, “Even if all are made to stumble because of You, I will never be made to stumble.”  34 Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you that this night, before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.”  35 Peter said to Him, “Even if I have to die with You, I will not deny You!”  And so said all the disciples.

The Prayer in the Garden

36 Then Jesus came with them to a place called Gethsemane, and said to the disciples, “Sit here while I go and pray over there.” 37 And He took with Him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and He began to be sorrowful and deeply distressed. 38 Then He said to them, “My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even to death. Stay here and watch with Me.”

39 He went a little farther and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.”

40 Then He came to the disciples and found them sleeping, and said to Peter, “What! Could you not watch with Me one hour? 41 Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”

42 Again, a second time, He went away and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if this cup cannot pass away from Me unlessI drink it, Your will be done.” 43 And He came and found them asleep again, for their eyes were heavy.

44 So He left them, went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words. 45 Then He came to His disciples and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and resting? Behold, the hour is at hand, and the Son of Man is being betrayed into the hands of sinners. 46 Rise, let us be going. See, My betrayer is at hand.”

Betrayal and Arrest in Gethsemane

47 And while He was still speaking, behold, Judas, one of the twelve, with a great multitude with swords and clubs, came from the chief priests and elders of the people.

48 Now His betrayer had given them a sign, saying, “Whomever I kiss, He is the One; seize Him.” 49 Immediately he went up to Jesus and said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” and kissed Him.

50 But Jesus said to him, “Friend, why have you come?”

Then they came and laid hands on Jesus and took Him. 51 And suddenly, one of those who were with Jesus stretched out his hand and drew his sword, struck the servant of the high priest, and cut off his ear.

52 But Jesus said to him, “Put your sword in its place, for all who take the sword will perishby the sword. 53 Or do you think that I cannot now pray to My Father, and He will provide Me with more than twelve legions of angels? 54 How then could the Scriptures be fulfilled, that it must happen thus?”

55 In that hour Jesus said to the multitudes, “Have you come out, as against a robber, with swords and clubs to take Me? I sat daily with you, teaching in the temple, and you did not seize Me. 56 But all this was done that the Scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled.”

Then all the disciples forsook Him and fled.

Jesus Faces the Sanhedrin

57 And those who had laid hold of Jesus led Him away to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders were assembled. 58 But Peter followed Him at a distance to the high priest’s courtyard. And he went in and sat with the servants to see the end.

59 Now the chief priests, the elders,^[g^] and all the council sought false testimony against Jesus to put Him to death, 60 but found none. Even though many false witnesses came forward, they found none. But at last two false witnesses^[i^] came forward 61 and said, “This fellow said, ‘I am able to destroy the temple of God and to build it in three days.’”

62 And the high priest arose and said to Him, “Do You answer nothing? What is it these men testify against You?” 63 But Jesus kept silent. And the high priest answered and said to Him, “I put You under oath by the living God: Tell us if You are the Christ, the Son of God!”

64 Jesus said to him, “It is as you said. Nevertheless, I say to you, hereafter you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Power, and coming on the clouds of heaven.”

65 Then the high priest tore his clothes, saying, “He has spoken blasphemy! What further need do we have of witnesses? Look, now you have heard His blasphemy! 66 What do you think?”

They answered and said, “He is deserving of death.”

67 Then they spat in His face and beat Him; and others struck Him with the palms of their hands, 68 saying, “Prophesy to us, Christ! Who is the one who struck You?”

Peter Denies Jesus, and Weeps Bitterly

69 Now Peter sat outside in the courtyard. And a servant girl came to him, saying, “You also were with Jesus of Galilee.”

70 But he denied it before them all, saying, “I do not know what you are saying.”

71 And when he had gone out to the gateway, another girl saw him and said to those who were there, “This fellow also was with Jesus of Nazareth.”

72 But again he denied with an oath, “I do not know the Man!”

73 And a little later those who stood by came up and said to Peter, “Surely you also are one of them, for your speech betrays you.”

74 Then he began to curse and swear, saying, “I do not know the Man!”

Immediately a rooster crowed. 75 And Peter remembered the word of Jesus who had said to him, “Before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.” So he went out and wept bitterly.

A BEAUTIFUL HYMN SUNG BY A BEAUTIFUL MAN

2011-04-21T15:32:00.002+10:00

My late Mum's favourite hymn sung by my favourite singer.

Thought For Today

2011-04-15T10:26:00.002+10:00

After the last two weeks of dealing with various problems,

including losing EVERYTHING off my computer for a time,

I have learnt the true meaning of the second

paragraph of the above verse.

UNFRIEND COAL - GREENPEACE

2011-03-30T11:16:00.000+11:00

Earthquake & Tsunami In Japan

2011-03-16T09:56:00.004+11:00

Tears are words the heart cannot express.
~ Author Unknown

The tears fall, they're so easy to wipe off onto my sleeve, but how do I erase the pictures from my heart? ~ Author Unknown

Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Japan and with the families of others, especially those from Australia, who have family members and friends missing. We are also praying for the safety of the brave men and women who are searching for survivors and bodies.

My opposition to nuclear power has also been vindicated by events in Japan.

PRIORITIES

2011-03-11T13:39:00.001+11:00

A hundred years from now it will not matter what my bank account was, the sort of house I lived in, or the kind of car I drove…but the world may be different because I was important in the life of a child.

Birthday Flowers

2011-03-05T15:51:00.000+11:00

I had a birthday a week or so ago and thought I'd share with you some pics of the flowers I received from my lovely children and grandson. The first three photos were taken on my birthday and the other three were taken a few days later as the gorgeous lilies came out (I should have moved the plastic bags though!).

HOW IT WORKS

2011-02-26T10:42:00.003+11:00

Once upon a time in a village a man appeared and announced to the villagers that he would buy monkeys for $10 each from them.

The villagers, seeing that there were many monkeys around, went out into the forest and started catching them.

The man bought thousands at $10 each and as supply started to diminish, the villagers stopped their efforts. The man then further announced that he would now buy at $20 each. This renewed the efforts of the villagers and they started catching monkeys again.

Soon the supply diminished even further and peopled started going back to their farms. The offer from the man increased to $25 each and the supply of monkeys became so little that it was an effort to even see a monkey, let along catch it!

The man now announced that he would buy monkeys at $50 each, however, since he had to go to the city on some business, his assistant would now buy on his behalf.

In the absence of the man, the assistant told the villagers, “Look at all these monkeys in the big cage that the man has collected. I will sell them to you at $35 each and then when the man returns from the city, you can sell them to him for $50 each.”

The villagers rounded up all their savings and bought all the monkeys.

Then they never saw the man, nor his assistant ever again, only monkeys everywhere!

Now you have a better understanding of how the stock market works.

Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall's Fish Fight

2011-02-23T09:21:00.003+11:00

Imagine a world without fish!!
This is not just a North Sea problem, it's a world-wide problem
and the waste must be stopped. Seafood is a finite resource and
it's time we all faced this and did something about preserving it
and not wasting a morsel.

Also see information about the film which inspired the
Fish Fight campaign: http://endoftheline.com/

Thoughts For Today

2011-02-20T12:36:00.005+11:00

Look back and thank God.

Look forward and trust God.

Look around and serve God.

Look within and find God!

I asked God, 'How do I get the best out of life?'

God said, 'Face your past without regrets.
Handle your present with confidence; and prepare
for the future without fear!'

If God brings you to it,

He will bring you through it.

Happy moments, praise God  

Difficult moments, seek God  

Quiet moments, worship God  

Painful moments, trust God  

Every moment, thank God.

Without God, our week is:

Mournday,

Tearsday,

Wasteday,

Thirstday,

Fightday,

Shatterday and

Sinday.

So, allow Him to be with you every day!

Jesus vs Satan

2011-02-19T10:39:00.001+11:00

Jesus and Satan were having an on-going argument about who was better on the computer. They had been going at it for days, and frankly God was tired of hearing all the bickering.

Finally fed up, God said, "THAT'S IT! I have had enough. I am going to set up a test that will run for two hours, and from those results, I will judge who does the better job."

So Satan and Jesus sat down at their keyboards and typed away.

They moused.

They faxed.

They e-mailed.

They e-mailed with attachments.

They downloaded.

They prepared spreadsheets!

They wrote reports.

They created labels and cards.

They created charts and graphs.

They created some genealogy reports.

They did every job known to man.

Jesus worked with heavenly efficiency and Satan was faster than hell.

Then, ten minutes before their time was up, lightning suddenly flashed across the sky, thunder rolled, rain poured, and, of course, the power went off.

Satan stared at his blank screen and screamed every curse word known in the underworld.

Jesus just sighed.

Finally the electricity came back on, and each of them restarted their computers. Satan started searching frantically, screaming: "It's gone! It's all GONE! I lost everything when the power went out!"

Meanwhile, Jesus quietly started printing out all of his files from the past two hours of work.

Satan observed this and became irate.

"Wait!" he screamed. "That's not fair! He cheated! How come he has all his work and I don't have any?"

God just shrugged and said, "JESUS SAVES".

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

2011-02-16T08:03:00.003+11:00

IN REMEMBRANCE - Marjorie Frances 'Marj' Mortimore (nee Stringer)

2011-02-11T17:54:00.007+11:00

Thirty years ago today my darling Mum passed away - I know time eases the pain a little - but this is still a very raw day for me, I recall every awful minute of that day and all the terrible two years of days before that. I also remember all the lonely days since.

Mum had breast cancer and even though she had a mastectomy, radiation-therapy and chemotherapy the cancer was stronger and came to the surface and it was simply horrendous for her.

I am still angry at God for allowing such a wonderful, warm, loving and selfless person like Mum to suffer like that but this is something God and I will have to resolve when / if I get to heaven one day.

I also vividly remember these days the gorgeous, vibrant, cheeky, happy-go-lucky Mum, the artistic floral art Mum, the wonderful cook Mum, the very crafty Mum (especially her knitting and crochet), the brave Mum who taught me how to drive without Dad even knowing, the brilliant gardener Mum, the loving, playful, giving Nana to her numerous grandchildren and how much they love her, how much we all love her.

We will always miss you Mum. X

Following are a few photos to show you what a stunning woman she was:

c. 1933 Frm L: Mum, her father Les nursing Joan and Beryl

c. 1939 Mum and Dad beside the Murray River at Red Cliffs, Victoria

c.1938 Dad and Mum by the river at Red Cliffs

c. 1938 Mum sitting on one of the sand-hills at Hattah, Victoria

c.1939 Mum at Block 350, Red Cliffs, Victoria

c.1939 Mum on a beach (I love this photo)

c.1940 Mum near Marysville, Victoria

c.1940 My beautiful Mum

12 Jul 1940 Mum and Dad's Wedding Day

1943 Mum with me, I can't believe I was ever that small

1944 Mum with my brother John

1949 Mum with my sister Janette

c.1956 Family picnic by the river

1969 Mum at the Danish Club, Albert Park, Victoria

c.1973 Mum at our home in East Brighton, Victoria

c.1975 Mum at Seaford Beach

1980 Our last Christmas together (Dad tried to rub marks

off my face on the photo - almost erased me!)

Mum's grave at Robinvale General Cemetery, Victoria

Coincidence?

2011-02-10T13:39:00.000+11:00

DID YOU KNOW?

2011-01-30T11:17:00.001+11:00

Q. Why do X's represent kisses?

A. In the Middle Ages most people were illiterate, so could not write their names. Instead they scrawled an X and kissed it to affirm their sincerity. The kiss and the cross became synonymous.

X has also long been used as shorthand for Christ (hence Xmas), so by kissing it one was making a pledge in the name of the Lord.

EARTH HOUR - 8.30pm, 26 March 2011

2011-01-29T14:40:00.005+11:00

EARTH HOUR, 8.30pm, Saturday 26th March 2011.

In under four short years, Earth Hour has become the largest campaign in history for the planet.

It has grown from one city, one country to over 128 countries and territories in 2010.

Earth Hour -- By The People, For The Planet.

If you can achieve this, imagine what else can be done.

START PREPARING NOW - PLEASE TELL EVERYONE YOU KNOW
GET INVOLVED - YOUR PLANET WILL LOVE YOU.

ARE YOU IN?

2011-01-29T12:23:00.001+11:00

Are You In? from Environment Victoria on Vimeo.

Mighty Murray River at Robinvale 1986

CRAFT - JUDIKINS STAMPING WITH MICA GLOSS

2011-01-21T11:57:00.001+11:00

I love watching JudiKins videos, I hope you do to:

Araluen

2011-01-14T15:29:00.000+11:00

ARALUEN

Take this rose, and very gently place it on the

tender, deep

Mosses where our little darling, Araluen, lies asleep

Put the blossom close to baby–kneel with me, my

love, and pray;

We must leave the bird we’ve buried–say goodbye

to her today

In the shadow of our trouble we must go to other

lands,

And the flowers we have fostered will be left to other

hands.

Other eyes will watch them growing–other feet will

softly tread

Where two hearts are nearly breaking, where so

many tears are shed.

Bitter is the world we live in: life and love are mixed

with pain;

We will never see these daisies–never water them

again.

Ah! the saddest thought in leaving baby in this

bush alone

Is that we have not been able on her grave to place

a stone:

We have been too poor to do it; but, my darling,

never mind—

God is in the gracious heavens, and His sun and rain

are kind:

They will dress the spot with beauty, they will

make the grasses grow;

Many winds will lull our birdie, many songs will

come and go.

Here the blue-eyed Spring will linger, here the

shining month will stay,

Like a friend, by Araluen, when we two are far away;

But, beyond the wide, wild waters, we will tread

another shore—

We will never watch this blossom, never see it any

more.

Girl, whose hand at God’s high altar in the dear,

dead year I pressed,

Lean your stricken head upon me—this is still your

lover’s breast!

She who sleeps was first and sweetest—none we have

to take her place!

Empty is the little cradle—absent is the little face.

Other children may be given; but this rose beyond

recall,

But this garland of your girlhood, will be dearest of

them all.

None will ever, Araluen, nestle where you used to be,

In my heart of hearts, you darling, when the world

was new to me;

We were young when you were with us, life and love

were happy things

To your father and your mother ere the angels gave

you wings.

You that sit and sob beside me—you, upon whose

golden head

Many rains of many sorrows have from day to day

been shed;

Who, because your love was noble, faced with me

the lost austere

Ever pressing with it’s hardship on the man of letters

here—

Let me feel that you are near me, lay your hand

within mine own;

You are all I have to live for, now that we are left

alone.

Three there were, but one has vanished. Sins of

mine have made you weep;

But forgive your baby’s father now that baby is

asleep.

Let us go, for night is falling, leave the darling with

her flowers;

Other hands will come and tend them—other friends

in other hours.

--By Henry Clarence Kendall (published 1903)

THIS POEM WAS WRITTEN ABOUT THE POET’S LATE DAUGHTER

QUEENSLAND FLOODS

2011-01-12T11:01:00.001+11:00

Our thoughts and prayers are with our fellow Australians (both human and animal) who are experiencing the devastating floods in the beautiful State of Queensland and now also those being affected in New South Wales.

My family is very grateful that our dear friends who live in Toowoomba are safe and sound even though they were very nearly directly involved - thank God that didn't eventuate.

We, in the south, feel so helpless when we see the horror unfolding on the television news, but please know that you are constantly in our thoughts.

NEW YEAR GREETING

2010-12-31T16:09:00.000+11:00

I would like to wish everyone a very happy, very safe, very healthy and very prosperous New Year for 2011.

Auld Lang Syne ["for (the sake of) old times".]

Should old acquaintance be forgot,  and never brought to mind ? 

Should old acquaintance be forgot,  and old lang syne ?

CHORUS:

For auld lang syne, my dear,

for auld lang syne,

we'll take a cup of kindness yet,

for auld lang syne.

And surely you’ll buy your pint cup ! and surely I’ll buy mine ! And we'll take a cup o’ kindness yet,  for auld lang syne.

CHORUS

We two have run about the slopes,  and picked the daisies fine ; But we’ve wandered many a weary foot,  since auld lang syne.

CHORUS

We two have paddled in the stream,  from morning sun till dine† ; But seas between us broad have roared  since auld lang syne.

CHORUS

And there’s a hand my trusty friend ! And give us a hand o’ thine ! And we’ll take a right good-will draught,  for auld lang syne.

CHORUS

IN REMEMBRANCE

2010-12-27T18:21:00.004+11:00

1989 Jason

With sad reflection today we recall that it is 20 long years since our sweet, happy-go-lucky, nephew & cousin Jason (aged 18) passed away following a terrible motorcycle accident.

We think of him every day and as his birthday is just two days before my son’s birthday we have measured the years by Mark's growth.

The following is our offering in memory of our beautiful boy:

On Children  by Kahlil Gibran

Your children are not your children. 

They are the sons and daughters of Life's longing for itself. 

They come through you but not from you, 

And though they are with you yet they belong not to you.

You may give them your love but not your thoughts,  

For they have their own thoughts. 

You may house their bodies but not their souls, 

For their souls dwell in the house of tomorrow,  

which you cannot visit, not even in your dreams. 

You may strive to be like them,  

but seek not to make them like you. 

For life goes not backward nor tarries with yesterday.

You are the bows from which your children 

as living arrows are sent forth. 

The archer sees the mark upon the path of the infinite,  

and He bends you with His might

 that His arrows may go swift and far. 

Let your bending in the archer's hand be for gladness; 

For even as He loves the arrow that flies,  

so He loves also the bow that is stable.

1975 Jason with Nana & Pa at Robinvale

1984 Jason & Samuel at our home, Robinvale

HAPPY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE

2010-12-25T11:18:00.003+11:00

I would like to take this opportunity to wish all of our family
(old & new), friends & followers a great day
and that you all

Love & Best Wishes from Evelyn & Family X

COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS - 1 DAY TO GO

2010-12-24T15:12:00.000+11:00

Luke 2

6 While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.

8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,

14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”

15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”

16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

Painting by Evelyn

COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS - 6 DAYS TO GO

2010-12-19T12:03:00.004+11:00

Luke 2

The Birth of Jesus

1 In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2 (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3 And everyone went to their own town to register.
4 So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. 5 He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child.

My Favourite Things

HAPPY AUSTRALIA DAY

MY COUNTRY

THE STORY BEHIND THE PICTURE OF THE PRAYING HANDS

HAPPY NEW YEAR FOR 2012

A NEW YEAR THOUGHT

HAPPY CHRISTMAS ONE & ALL

Why Jesus is Better than Santa Claus

Santa lives at the North Pole...

JESUS is everywhere.

Santa rides in a sleigh...

JESUS rides on the wind and walks on the water.

Santa comes but once a year...

JESUS is an ever present help.

Santa fills your stockings with goodies...JESUS supplies all your needs.

Santa comes down your chimney uninvited...JESUS stands at your door and knocks, and then enters your heart when invited.

You have to wait in line to see Santa...JESUS is as close as the mention of His name.

Santa lets you sit on his lap...JESUS lets you rest in His arms.

Santa doesn't know your name, all he can say is "Hi little boy or girl, what's your name?"...

JESUS knew our name before we were born. Not only does He know our name, He knows our address too. He knows our history and future and He even knows how many hairs are on our heads.

Santa has a belly like a bowl full of jelly...JESUS has a heart full of love.

All Santa can offer is HO HO HO...JESUS offers health, help and hope.

Santa says "You better not cry"...JESUS says "Cast all your cares on me for I care for you."

Santa's little helpers make toys...JESUS makes new life, mends wounded hearts, repairs broken homes and builds mansions.

Santa may make you chuckle but...JESUS gives you joy that is your strength.

While Santa puts gifts under your tree...JESUS became our gift and died on a tree... the cross.

We need to put Christ back in CHRISTmas, Jesus is still the reason for the season.

"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life" (John 3:16).

If Time Is All I Have by James Blunt

4 Outlet: 1 Foot Switch Powerboard with Surge & Telecom's Surge Protection : Greentopia eco & green products

Remembrance Day 2011

Australia

evi_mort's photostream

SPRING BEAUTIFUL SPRING

Evermore - Hey Boys and Girls

REMEMBRANCE 11 September 2001-11 September 2011

Also The Lungs of The World

Something Beautiful

OWL CITY - MAGIC

More Wonderful Owl City Music

Special Music Just For You

Save Our Forests, Save Our Wildlife

APOLOGY

Gerry Harvey you should be ashamed!

I LOVE WINTER - HERE'S A FAVOURITE POEM TO CELEBRATE

QUEEN - FRIENDS WILL BE FRIENDS

THESE ARE THE DAYS OF OUR LIVES By QUEEN

AUTUMN COLOUR IN THE GARDEN

TO ALL THE MUMS

ANZAC DAY - LEST WE FORGET

THE EASTER STORY - PART 3

THE EASTER STORY - PART 2

THE EASTER STORY - PART 1

A BEAUTIFUL HYMN SUNG BY A BEAUTIFUL MAN

Thought For Today

UNFRIEND COAL - GREENPEACE

Earthquake & Tsunami In Japan

PRIORITIES

Birthday Flowers

HOW IT WORKS

Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall's Fish Fight

Thoughts For Today

Jesus vs Satan

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

IN REMEMBRANCE - Marjorie Frances 'Marj' Mortimore (nee Stringer)

Coincidence?

DID YOU KNOW?

EARTH HOUR - 8.30pm, 26 March 2011

ARE YOU IN?

CRAFT - JUDIKINS STAMPING WITH MICA GLOSS

Araluen

QUEENSLAND FLOODS

NEW YEAR GREETING

IN REMEMBRANCE

HAPPY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE

COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS - 1 DAY TO GO

COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS - 6 DAYS TO GO

Santa fills your stockings with goodies...
JESUS supplies all your needs.

Santa comes down your chimney uninvited...
JESUS stands at your door and knocks, and then enters your heart when invited.

You have to wait in line to see Santa...
JESUS is as close as the mention of His name.

Santa lets you sit on his lap...
JESUS lets you rest in His arms.

Santa has a belly like a bowl full of jelly...
JESUS has a heart full of love.

All Santa can offer is HO HO HO...
JESUS offers health, help and hope.

Santa says "You better not cry"...
JESUS says "Cast all your cares on me for I care for you."

Santa's little helpers make toys...
JESUS makes new life, mends wounded hearts, repairs broken homes and builds mansions.

Santa may make you chuckle but...
JESUS gives you joy that is your strength.

While Santa puts gifts under your tree...
JESUS became our gift and died on a tree... the cross.