Soul Food And More... :) Shangy! >Here are the details on our Yahoo ShangyFunList: To Subscribe send a blank email to ShangyFunList-subscribe@yahoogroups.com To UnSubscribe send a blank email to ShangyFunList-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com Group home page: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ShangyFunList or Web Site: http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/ShangyFunList.html Group email address: ShangyFunList@yahoogroups.com or email me here: bcrsystems@earthlink.net ================ >-->OoooWEeeee!! oo 8 "} > @ < .8 .-._/| .'_'`')`_.' \| ) / (>'/ |_,_ | (,| .' ,'\| `._/ ) \| '`- -- ''-- --- VK/ejm I'm doing a 'Happy Angel' dance! Why? Because Shangrala has been blessed with another donation from our Shangrala Angel, Tom C from VA! May God Bless his heart richly! He is a loyal supporter contributing to help Keep Shangrala Alive! We sure do thank God for him and all our past sweet, wonderful angels! If you'd like to help too and be counted as a Shangrala Angel, please visit the site and click on the donate button. A Secure PAYPAL page comes up. NOTE: Paypal will generate a 'Quantity 1' and 'Price per item' form. Just ignore the price per item and put whatever it is you desire to give in there. With Paypal, you will have your normal receipt for your 'payment' donation in USD (United States Dollars). You can put a memo in there if you'd like. EVERY LITTLE BIT WILL HELP! Any amount is greatly appreciated and needed! PLEASE Visit Shangrala to Help: http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/index.html OR If you'd rather send us a donation, Please MAIL it here: Elrhea Bigham 502 S. Harrison Van Wert, OH 45891 *~* THANK YOU! MAY GOD BLESS YOU MOST ABUNDANTLY FOR YOUR GIFT! ================ *~* A REMINDER: PLEASE Send me sweet, interesting, funny, inspiring, family type forwards ANY TIME here... bcrsystems@earthlink.net I Need them, Love them, Use them, and Share them! THANK YOU!! AND For Facebook Users: Please Friend Me / Like Me here... http://tinyurl.com/cma6all AND For Google Plus Users: You can find me here... Shangy Bigham https://plus.google.com/106648555948034085752/posts AND Please Share This email with All Your Friends And Family! ^~^ May God SUPER BLESS You As You Do! THANK YOU! :) -<>- * NOTE: An easy way to adjust the size of print in email or any page is to hold down the Ctrl tab while moving the scroll button on the mouse. You can also use the keyboard to change the font size in your web browser or emails. Hold down the Ctrl key while pressing the + key for larger text or the - key for smaller text! ================ __, ,__) __, ,__) __, ,__) (--|__| _ ,_ ,_ (--|\ | _ (--\ | _ _ ,_ _| |(_||_)|_)(_| _| \|(/_(_|_) \|(/_(_|| ( | | ,_| ( (__| >-->HAPPY NEW YEAR! Wishing you love, joy, peace, happiness, good health, wealth and prosperity for the 2018 New Year from our beloved God above through our wonderful Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! ShangralaFamilyFun.com had a wonderful year last year due to all our kind angels and contributors sharing with us. They enrich our lives! Many heartfelt blessings and thank yous to each of you! .0. / \ ; \_/ ; | | | | | | _______; ;_______ `======='\ /`=======` \ / _ | | _ _( \____|=|____/ )_ ( .---. .---. ) `-' / \ '-' / HUG \ ; ; | .---.|__, jgs : / :--' .--\ \ | `" `"".-' < =""` `"== `""""""` =""` `"""===="""` =""` `""==="""` *~* We Had A Super Duper Caring And Sharing Month Last Month! >Please Be Sure To Visit And Share These With Your Friends: The Shepherd And The Fox! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/shepherdfox.html The Force Of Lake Erie! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/lakeerie.html Life's Choices! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/lifeschoices.html Beautiful Birds And Words! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/birdsandwords.html Dogs VS Elf! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/dogsvself.html Dogs VS Elf 2! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/dogsvself2.html Rare Old Rolls-Royce! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/rollsroyce.html Vintage Christmas Times! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/vintagechristmas.html Look Who's Talking 12! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/talking12.html Christmas Day Events! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/christmasevents.html Festivals Around World! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/worldfestivals.html _ ______ / `'. ,-"` '. / /'-.'. ___ .' \ \/ '.\.' ' | .| .'`\ | /`"'--., / \ , _.--'` \/_ | ,----.| _ `_--;` ``` `\-. | | \ | -- C -- _/ \ \ | \ 0 0 / . | | \| ) | '. _.' |.__/ ; \ `'---` / / __ '. .' | (__) /'-._____,-` \ /---'.-""-.\ '. / ||,- \\ ;---`;-._||-= |\ , ."""-. \ ) `|'.___.' \ ___ \'. / '-. \ /`-`-; / \ ,/ `) \ \| \ `` | | \|| / /'.| )_ / || | | \/ .' \ \ .-'/ ` |` |.-' .-~ ~-~-._ |.'` \ ` '-. \___/,__/ ~` _ `~~-., `-.,_\_)`-.,_\) `~-,___ ~___~,,..-~~/ jgs \___/`\____/'._.' *~* Big THANK YOU And Huggums In Christ To All Our Super Contributors! -<>- >-->HOT Off The 'Shangy' Press :) This flaming hot new page is from our friends Bunni and Linda. Not only is it one to give you your aww quota for the day, but it is sure to spark your attention with plenty of most interesting little known Polar Bear facts. Check it and the adorable video out here... _ _ .-""-. ( )-"```"-( ) .-""-. / O O \ / \ / O O \ |O .-. \ / 0 _ 0 \ / .-. O| \ ( ) '. _| (_) | .' ( ) / '.`-' '-./ | |`\.-' '-'.' \ | \ \ / / | / \ \ '. '._.' .' / / \ '. `'-----'` .' / \ .' '-._ .-'\ '. / |/` `'''''') ) `\| / ( ( ,\ ; \ '-..-'/ ; | '. / | | `'---'` | ; ; \ / `. .' '-._ _.-' jgs __/`" ' - - - ' "`` \__ /` /^\ `\ \( .' '. )/ '.(__(__.-' '.__)__).' Polar Bear Capital http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/polarbearcapital.html --- ...What a cute one! Thanks Ladies! =========================================================== >-->From Heartwarmers: Whoever in prayer can say, "Our Father," acknowledges and should feel the brotherhood of the whole race of mankind. -- Tryon Edwards Wow! We're thrilled to present you *An Award Winning Heartwarmer* today, written by Jaye Lewis, an esteemed Heartwarmer Gem. You'll love this story, and you might want to grab a tissue if emotions run too high. We always wondered what those Pillsbury Bake-Off contests were like... * An Award Winning Heartwarmer * ( ( ) ) ) ( ) ..... .:::::::::. ~\_______/~ (BZ Baker) >BETTER THAN MONEY OR FAME by Jaye Lewis What in the world was I doing in Miami Florida, poor and alone in a rich and sophisticated place? It was thirty years ago, and I was a finalist in the Pillsbury Bake-Off. I had entered three recipes, and remarkably, I was chosen as a finalist, out of thousands of entries. I remember clearly the voice of the woman on the other end of the phone. "Congratulations! You are a finalist in the Pillsbury Bake-Off." "No. Who is this, really?" I asked, totally dumb-founded. She laughed as I insisted on calling back and verifying. Wow! It was true! I really was a finalist. I was ecstatic. How could this be happening? Pillsbury flew everyone to Miami. Then they whisked us away to the famous Fontainebleau Hilton in Miami Beach. I was stunned just to be there in the fabulous surroundings. The food was incredible, and the settings like nothing I had ever seen. Nothing could top this, I thought, but I was about to learn one of the greatest lessons of my life. The waiters and waitresses were all Cuban, and they spoke not a word of English. I couldn't help but notice anger in their expressions. It was not long before I understood why. They were ignored as though they didn't exist. No one even gave them a smile. I quickly lost my appetite and barely touched my food. I tried, with difficulty, to keep up with the questions of a very nice Vice President of a Pillsbury subsidiary. I was unsuccessful, but it didn't matter, because I was now a witness to the painful struggle of refugees from another land. Were the refugees as overwhelmed as I? Did they feel as out of place, surrounded by wealthy people, who had no idea of what it was like to have nothing? Our situations were different, yet I felt that we were very much alike. I didn't know what to say to the people around me, and neither did they. I didn't understand the chatter, almost as much as they. All of a sudden, I decided to do something about their situation. I wanted desperately to make them feel visible, important, and welcome in their new country. From somewhere deep inside of me, I began pulling out rusty expressions from my four years of high school Spanish. I could only remember a few phrases in their language, yet with that first phrase, "Gracias," I beheld a remarkable transformation. Warm, brown faces took on a shocked and delighted glow. "De nada!" my delighted waiter replied. "It was nothing," he said, in halting English. So it began, my bad Spanish communicating with another's bad English. I was enchanted by the happiness I saw in their faces. Did they feel more welcome in their new home? I hoped so. After breakfast we were led into a converted ballroom. A hundred stoves and refrigerators were packed inside. We had just a few hours to complete our recipes, twice. One entry for pictures and one for the judges, who were kept in seclusion. I was one of the first contestants finished. Exhausted, I went up to my room to rest, greeting many smiling Cubans along the way. That evening we were treated to a huge award ceremony dinner. No one ate much, and as they began to name the winners, there was sporadic applause from their family and friends. If I were a winner, I thought sadly, there would be no one to applaud for me. I was amazed when I heard my name called out. As I stood, the room erupted in thunderous applause. What in the world?! I turned to look, and I saw dozens of smiling Cubans, waving and cheering for me. Stunned, and blind with tears, I reached out for my prize. Bob Barker handed me my check and said, "You must have a lot of friends." "I do now," I smiled, choking back tears. In that brief moment, I understood that my "prize" was neither money nor my fifteen minutes of fame. My true reward, I told my children later, was in learning that one small kindness can bring unexpected return. -- Jaye Lewis __________________________________________________ Jaye is a Heartwarmer Gem and contributing author to Chicken Soup for the Soul. She has also contributed to Guide Posts books, God Allows U-Turns, and many other anthologies, newspapers, and magazines. To read more about Jaye, visit her website at http://www.entertainingangels.org or visit her blogs which can be accessed through her website. Jaye is happily married and has two wonderful daughters, along with a menagerie of pets which includes her little Dachshund, HappyDog, the dog of her life. =========================================================== >-->From Our Friend LouiseAu :) .-._.-._.-._.-._.-._.-._.-._.-. -._.".--.._.-._.-._"_._.-._.-._ ( ( ) .--." ( '.___ ( * ) '--' *( ) '.____) * ) ( ( '--' * _ ( ) ) __ _. /,' ) * ( ( .' ' '- ( ) )- /.;, ) * ) ( * . ( ^ (' >Party!< ( ) /)\_v/ /'. ) ( .-|\/|-../"/. ( ) /_/ /'. \_) * ( (___'. /# / // ) \\_;'./ // * /--'.___/ ( _/ ' '. \ \-. '. \ \ '. \ \ ) ) ) mrf) | / | / |(___| | | \ -\ \.--:_ \__) ___,_____\____) _____._______ >I AM THE NEW YEAR I am... The challenge of new goals The desire for spiritual growth The continual burden for lost souls The anticipation of answered prayer And the eager expectation of Christ's soon return for His Bride, the Church. I am the New Year, I may only be lived one moment at at time. I am replete with the unknown and rife with... Opportunities to trust Unexpected moments of blessing and delight Satisfaction for spiritual truth and hunger Motivations to give of your time and effort to people and projects And the joy and privilege of serving the Lord in new and exciting ways. YES, I AM THE NEW YEAR! -<>- , , /////| ///// | ///// | |~~~| | | |===| |/| | B |/| | | I | | | | B | | | | L | / | E | / |===|/ jgs '---' >"Soul Food" (Author Unknown) I love the taste of T-bone steak, Delicious every bite, But there's nothing like the Word of God, For my spiritual appetite. The Word of God has milk and meat, And even ice cream and cake. Take a slice of the Bread of Life, And coffee to keep us awake. Open your Bible and turn to Psalms, For David's famous buffet. You can drink all the wine of the Word you want, And still feel fine the next day. There's enough of the Word for everyone, And no one has to cheat. The Word of God is a smorgasbord, So take all you are able to eat. Let's have a little long-suffering, Job gives the recipe. Patience is the main ingredient, Self-denial is the fee. Wrap that up in temperance, It may not make much sense, Cover that with contentment, Then add some joy for strength. Let's have love for dessert, Jesus made this dish, Cream of joy and peace together, Sift out all selfishness. Add some deeds of righteousness, Enough to make it sweet. Humility is the frosting, That makes the dish complete. Or are you on a diet, Because the race seems hard to run? For a weight losing menu, Try Hebrews 12 and 1. Are you suffering from malnutrition, And don't know what to do? Your spiritual growth seems hindered, Try I Peter 2 and 2. If when every time you battle, The enemy always wins, Try some Holy Ghost Protein, And spiritual vitamins. God's Word can feed millions, And still have plenty left. Because the Word of God is Soul Food, Sent from the World's Greatest Chef! --- ...Wow! What great poems! Thanks LouiseAu! -<>- o \ o `. o o o o \ ` -. .-.-. .---. .-.,-.,-. ..-. / )| | `'____\' o _____\|| ` `' | |-._--.| |----.| | o |o ||-.| ||,-. || | o o | ||_|| |/ oo\ || | | || || C ._)o || | o o| || ||o|\`-/ || | ,. o | ||_|| ,'\,\ || | _\('') | ||o||/\ \ .: o|| | (; .) | || |( \_\||___|| | _,.(|___)-. | o||_|||`-`,\)----' | o o | | ||..|.| o _ |-. _.-. `.-.|._|_.-:|__|_|-.-' `-'.__ o o '--`-` o - SSt >AND THEN IT IS WINTER. You know. . . time has a way of moving quickly and catching you unaware of the passing years. It seems just yesterday that I was young, just married and embarking on my new life with my mate. Yet in a way, it seems like eons ago, and I wonder where all the years went. I know that I lived them all. 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 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 friends are retired and getting grey...they move slower and I see an older person now. Some are in better and some worse shape than me...but, I see the great change....Not like the ones that I remember who were young and vibrant...but, like me, their 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 that I wish I had done but never did! 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 on this earth...it's NOT over. A new adventure will begin! Yes, I have regrets. There are things I wish I hadn't done...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 quickly! Don't put things off too long! Life goes by quickly. So, do what you can today, as 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 for today and say all the things that you want your loved ones to remember...and hope that they appreciate and love you for all the things that you have done for them in all the years past! "Life" is a gift to you. The way you live your life is your gift to those who come after. Make it a fantastic one. LIVE IT WELL! ENJOY TODAY! DO SOMETHING FUN! BE HAPPY! HAVE A GREAT DAY! REMEMBER:.... It is health that is real wealth and not pieces of gold and silver. LIVE HAPPY IN THIS YEAR AND EVERY YEAR! LASTLY, CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING:... TODAY IS THE OLDEST YOU'VE EVER BEEN, YET THE YOUNGEST YOU'LL EVER BE SO - ENJOY THIS DAY WHILE IT LASTS. ~Your kids are becoming you....... ~Going out is good.. Coming home is better! ~You forget names.... But it's OK because other people forgot they even knew you!!! ~You realize you're never going to be really good at anything.... especially golf.. ~The things you used to care to do, you no longer care to do, but you really do care that you don't care to do them anymore. ~You sleep better on a lounge chair with the TV blaring than in bed. It's called "pre-sleep". ~You miss the days when everything worked with just an "ON" and "OFF" switch.. ~You tend to use more 4 letter words ... "what?"..."when?"... "what?" ~Now that you can afford expensive jewelry, it's not safe to wear it anywhere. ~You notice everything they sell in stores is "sleeveless"?!!! ~What used to be freckles are now liver spots. ~Everybody whispers. ~You have 3 sizes of clothes in your closet.... 2 of which you will never wear. ~But Old is good in some things: Old Songs, Old movies, and best of all, OLD FRIENDS!! Stay well, "OLD FRIEND!" Send this on to other "Old Friends!" and let them laugh in AGREEMENT!!! It's Not What You Gather, But What You Scatter That Tells What Kind Of Life You Have Lived. --- ...Absolutely! Thanks LouiseAu! =========================================================== >-->From Archives InspiredBuffalo: _______________ / .---.:.-----.,`. / / ||| ||\\\ .-`"\ / F_____J|L_____JL_*.`. @@=. } / .-. | : `------. ___`./ `"`, :-. `-' | | .-. `. {#/--..!__ \ |=| | | ` F : _..--"" __.-; ; |-'.---. | | .---. `-| __..--"" ,+' \_/ _!_/.mMm.\__!___________!__/.mMm.\ _!__..--"" // .--"" !__! MMMMM !_______________! MMMMM !__! //`-.-' ______"YMP"___________________"YMP"________________________{{___/________fsc >Life's Tug of War Life can seem ungrateful and not always kind... Life can pull at your heartstrings and play with your mind.... Life can be blissful and happy and free... Life can put beauty in the things that you see ... Life can place challenges right at your feet... Life can make good of the hardships we meet... Life can overwhelm you and make your head spin... Life can reward those determined to win... Life can be hurtful and not always fair... Life can surround you with people who care ... Life clearly does offer its Up and its Downs... Life's days can bring you both smiles and frowns... Life teaches us to take the good with the bad... Life is a mixture of happy and sad... SO Take the Life that you have and give it your best... Think positive, be happy, let God do the rest... Take the challenges that life has laid at your feet... Take pride and be thankful for each one you meet... To yourself give forgiveness if you stumble and fall... Take each day that is dealt you and give it your all... Take the love that you're given and return it with care... Have faith that when needed it will always be there... Take time to find the beauty in the things that you see... Take life's simple pleasures let them set your heart free.... The idea here is simply to even the score As you are met and faced with Life's Tug of War - Author Unknown -<>- /|\ [] |"""""""""""--__ /| |\ / | \ || |____________--"" ( |__| ) | ( ) | || | | \ / | .-. | || | | |12| ]( 0 )[ || | | | | / `-' \ || | | | | / /' `\ \ || | | | | | | | | |%%| | | | | | | | | ,'`, | | | | | | | | |||| | | |14| | | | | |||| | | / __ \ \ \ / / |||| | | ( | | ) `-' `-' `--' `-' \| |/ pb >THE CARPENTER’S TOOLS - Author Unknown Brother Hammer served as the chairman. The other members of the tool belt informed him that he must leave, because he was too noisy. But brother Hammer said, “If I have to leave this carpenter's shop, then brother Gimlet must go too. He's insignificant and makes a very small impression.” (A gimlet is a small tool with a screw point, grooved shank, and a cross handle for boring holes). Little brother Gimlet arose and said, “All right, but brother Screwdriver must go also. You have to turn him around and around to get anywhere with him.” Brother Screwdriver turned to the other tools in the belt and said, “If you wish, I will go, but brother Plane must leave, too. All of his work is on the surface; there's no depth to what he does.” To this brother Plane leveled his terse reply, “Well, then, brother Saw will have to depart too. The changes he proposes always cut too deep.” Brother Saw complained, saying, “Brother Ruler will have to withdraw if I leave, for he's always measuring other folks as though he were the only one who is right.” Brother Ruler then surveyed the group and said, “Brother Sandpaper doesn't belong here either. He's rougher than he ought to be, and is always rubbing people the wrong way.” In the midst of the discussion, the Carpenter of Nazareth walked in. He had come to perform his day's work. He put on His tool belt and went to the workbench to make a pulpit. He employed the ruler, the saw, the plane, the hammer, the gimlet, the screwdriver, the sandpaper, and all the other tools. When the day's work was over, the pulpit was finished, and the carpenter went home. All the accusations against each of these tools were absolutely true, yet the carpenter used every one of them. No matter which tool He used, no other tool could have done the work better. We are all “tools” in God's tool box. Each of us has a purpose, ability, and a task to perform... 1 Corinthians 3: [9] For we are labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building. [10] According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon. [11] For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. -<>- >The Quilt of Life (old but good reminder!) As I faced my Maker at the last judgment, I knelt before the Lord along with all the other souls. Before each of us laid our lives like the squares of a quilt in many piles; an angel sat before each of us sewing our quilt squares together into a tapestry that is our life. But as my angel took each piece of cloth off the pile, I noticed how ragged and empty each of my squares was. They were filled with giant holes. Each square was labeled with a part of my life that had been difficult, the challenges and temptations I was faced with in every day life. I saw hardships that I endured, which were the largest holes of all. I glanced around me. Nobody else had such squares. Other than a tiny hole here and there, the other tapestries were filled with rich color and the bright hues of worldly fortune. I gazed upon my own life and was disheartened. My angel was sewing the ragged pieces of cloth together, threadbare and empty, like binding air. Finally the time came when each life was to be displayed, held up to the light, the scrutiny of truth. The others rose; each in turn, holding up their tapestries. So filled their lives had been. My angel looked upon me, and nodded for me to rise. My gaze dropped to the ground in shame. I hadn't had all the earthly fortunes. I had love in my life, and laughter. But there had also been trials of illness, and wealth, and false accusations that took from me my world, as I knew it. I had to start over many times. I often struggled with the temptation to quit, only to somehow muster the strength to pick up and begin again. I spent many nights on my knees in prayer, asking for help and guidance in my life. I had often been held up to ridicule, which I endured painfully, each time offering it up to the Father in hopes that I would not melt within my skin beneath the judgmental gaze of those who unfairly judged me. And now, I had to face the truth. My life was what it was, and I had to accept it for what it was. I rose and slowly lifted the combined squares of my life to the light. An awe-filled gasp filled the air. I gazed around at the others who stared at me with wide eyes. Then, I looked upon the tapestry before me. Light flooded the many holes, creating an image, the face of Christ. Then our Lord stood before me, with warmth and love in His eyes. He said, 'Every time you gave over your life to Me, it became My life, My hardships, and My struggles. Each point of light in your life is when you stepped aside and let Me shine through, until there was more of Me than there was of you.' May all our quilts be threadbare and worn, allowing Christ to shine through! God determines who walks into your life....it's up to you to decide who you let walk away, who you let stay, and who you refuse to let go.' When there is nothing left but God that is when you find out that God is all you need. Take 60 seconds and give this a shot! All you do is simply say the following small prayer for the people in your life... Father, God bless all my friends in whatever it is that you know they may need this day! And may their life be full of your peace, prosperity and power as he/she seeks to have a closer relationship with you through Jesus Christ, Amen. -<> >Links for Your Enjoyment: Just Thinking http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/thinking.html Worst Famous Predictions! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/worstpredictions.html Worms! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/worms.html Amazing Animal Facts http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/animalfacts.html Look Who's Talking 3 http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/talking3.html Mini Baby Art http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/baby.html Old Delivery Trucks http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/deliverytrucks.html Animal Moms http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/animalmoms.html Origami Dollar Art http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/dollarart.html Beautiful Bridges http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/bridges.html Animals First Snow http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/animalsfirstsnow.html LCS 2 USS Independence http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/lcs2.html Animal Friends http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/animalfriends.html That's God! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/thatsgod.html World's Largest Model Railway http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/modelrailway.html Yearly Friendship Renewal http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/renewal.html Acknowledgment of God in all 50 state constitutions... Who Is 'WE?" http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/whoiswe.html -<>- >Please Follow Me On StumbleUpon https://tinyurl.com/ycse7xoz -<>- >In The News: WhiteHouseNews: https://www.whitehouse.gov/1600daily/ Under President Donald J. Trump, Americans Are Getting Back To Work! AMERICA’S ECONOMY IS FIRING ON ALL CYLINDERS: President Donald J. Trump has unleashed America’s economic growth engine and ushered in a new era of economic optimism. https://tinyurl.com/y9n68bsz Latest At FoxNews: http://www.foxnews.com/ Latest From MRC News: https://tinyurl.com/ya6uruck Latest From TrueDailyNews: http://truedaily.news/category/news/ -<>- Revisiting... >From Our Friend Geniann :) You might enjoy this clip. https://www.youtube.com/embed/ie3SrjLlcUY History of The Archimedes HQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i6QyBdPGbFE --- ...Wowsers! Thanks Geniann! -<>- >From Our Friend Melody :) Pain Connection - Chronic Pain Outreach Center http://www.painconnection.org/ Paper airplane - The best paper airplane in the world! http://www.zurqui.co.cr/crinfocus/paper/airplane.html --- ...Good Info! Thanks Melody! -<>- >From Our Friend PatDeE :) Interesting historical pictures http://imgur.com/a/g6p61 --- ...Wow! Sweet! Thanks PatDeE! -<>- >From Our Friend LouiseAu :) People spend thousands on African safaris to witness wildebeest migration. But did you know we have a massive herd animal migration right here in America? If you've never seen the Wyoming Mule Deer Migration, you need to watch this video. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BIAyb-1uwTg&feature=player_embedded Check out this adorable video that proves how much fun life on a farm is. https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=0y2ZxgJNlWs The extremely graceful 'Duo Resonance' brings something special and loving to their acrobatic act. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BLotWKVq4Ig The most amazing stage magic ever - sawing a woman in half using clear see-through boxes. Magician twins Gary and Paul received the "Best International Stage Magicians of the Year" World Magic Award 2009 for this illusion. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p2Wkg6I5RqI&feature=player_embedded --- ...Love these! Thanks LouiseAu! Visit Melissa's Online Store You can get anything you want (except for Melissa ) at the online store http://pdhomes.net/mall/babylissa/mySTORES/ISELL4.html ========================================================== >-->From Our Friend Linda :) .:::. .:::. /:::::\ /:':':\ | _ | | _ | | (_` | | |_) | | ,_) | | | | | | jgs | | /`'---'`\ /`'---'`\ `'-----'` `'-----'` >Tequila and Salt This should probably be taped to your bathroom mirror where one could read it every day.. You may not realize it, but it's 100% true. 1. There are at least two people in this world that you would die for. 2. At least 15 people in this world love you in some way. 3. The only reason anyone would ever hate you is because they want to be just like you. 4. A smile from you can bring happiness to anyone, even if they don't like you. 5. Every night, SOMEONE thinks about you before they go to sleep. 6. You mean the world to someone. 7. You are special and unique. 8. Someone that you don't even know exists loves you. 9. When you make the biggest mistake ever, something good comes from it. 10. When you think the world has turned its back on you take another look. 11. Always remember the compliments you received.. Forget about the rude remarks. --- ...Aww, great truths! Thanks Linda! ============================================================ ____ /(( )) ( )6 6( ) (_) l (_) \ <> ) ____) (_____ ( \____/ ) ) ( )( ) ( / / \ / \ \ / / \ / \ \ \ \ )==( / / \ \ / \ / / '\\/ \//' '|\` '|\` \ / \ / >A "Hands-On" Landlady Story Editor: by Jan Gerston Joyce Schowalter Texas, USA Elaine was a successful real estate broker and land developer. In addition to running a busy office of real estate agents and property managers, she had been recently widowed with the challenge of raising two teenaged children on her own. She was also my landlady for seven years. Elaine was a "hands-on" landlady: despite her manicured nails and elegant coiffure, she would spend a hard day cleaning the duplex next to mine each time a tenant moved out. Several times I found her outside doing yard work at the duplex adjoining mine. Then it was my turn to move. Returning to clean an empty rental property after your furniture has been moved out is one of the more unpleasant moving tasks. One is in transition between the former and the future parts of one's life. It was a few weeks before Christmas, all my worldly goods were in storage, and my life was in upheaval. I had lost my job and was about to embark upon a somewhat risky adventure -- a long-held dream. After cleaning, I dreaded the inevitable long wait at the post office to mail out my Christmas gifts. When I arrived back at the duplex with cleaning supplies, the technicians working to rehabilitate the kitchen cabinets were rude and unpleasant, adding to the chore. I was exhausted from packing and moving, uncertain about my future, and already missing my friends and all that was familiar. Elaine came to check on the place and found me scrubbing a stained floor without effect. Because of some water damage and the usual wear and tear, I did not expect my cleaning deposit to be returned. Plus, when signing my lease I had agreed to have the carpets professionally cleaned after I moved out. I was embarrassed at the condition of my place, but instead of showing the disappointment she must have felt, Elaine just took charge. She offered to ship my packages, saying that if I got in line at the post office, I'd be stuck there all day, delaying my departure. She said she would arrange to have the carpets cleaned after I left. She seemed to forgive me for the water damage. She returned my entire cleaning deposit. I was overcome with emotion and could not speak for several minutes. Sometimes all it takes to release a big burden of pent-up emotion is the kindness of one stranger. In a situation in which she could have been brusque, this hard-working businesswoman showed compassion for one of her many tenants. She assessed my situation and set about immediately trying to make it better, despite the additional load it placed on her. She lightened the daunting workload I faced in moving. I was able to leave town with a light heart and a positive attitude -- due to the kindness of my landlady. =======HeroicStories======= / _, ,_ M\M"_,, `"MMMMMm._ `/MMMMMMP^^", MPTMMM`M `-. .'" MMMm "=, `.`"-. .' / S _"^M :Ww. \ `-. .-' .: ".wW\.; :WP^; `-. `-. .-' .-'/ \ :^WP: ; `--' ;\ `-. `. .-' .-' / /; `..' ; \`. `-. \ / .-' .' / ; .-";`"""--5..`-. `-.\ / .' .-' / | .' ; r`) `-. \\ ; / .-' .-' ;_/ ; _ ; `. \; |' .' .' ( _ _ : `-' :\ `./ `-' / .-r-.`Y `-' : / ; ; .-7" `.`7. | .' | : ' ; ; `--..__.'-""/ ;\ \ ,| | | ..--",-' : ; _ _.7`,_J- ; : ;, _,': /; ; _ .' `--.`-.`-'_.-| `. |/ : .'/ : ; | |`". _.-".+. :`"-. `--`"" ,_: `'7 /.-. ; | / | : 7",' ." | : \ : `-. / ;' / | | `--\ /4 ' / .' ; `. ; \ :`"\ .< ; : _.7 ' `. / /.' \ `.___.-"> ;_/ :---"\ `. ' `.-.. `"--' / fsc `.___..--"/ _mMMMm,.' `-.`-.._ ) `"--. .' `---'"mMMMMMMMMm,_ `-----' `"" `" "^`^MMMP^^mm, >-->Story Time From Our Friend Fran :) I know what America is... America is a thing you can move very easily, move it in the right direction. They won't get in [the] way. --Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, 2001 Courage is going from failure to failure without losing enthusiasm. --Winston Churchill Every day brings new choices. --Martha Beck The memory of one particular summer evening is still burned in my brain as if it were yesterday. I can still feel the dry heat of the day in the air, being propelled out by storm clouds rolling in. There was nothing but wide-open fields for miles and miles around our rural Minnesota home. We saw occasional cars going by on the highway, but no one we knew ever just stopped by, this far out of town. We never saw strangers — not ever — and here on this sizzling hot evening was a real live one walking up our driveway. A young man, a slightly built hitchhiker, came walking up our long curved gravel road to the house while we kids stood and gawked as he approached our door. This young man was out in the middle no where. He knew there was a storm coming, and desperately needed to find shelter. Not wanting to intrude on our home and family, he asked my dad if he could sleep in our barn for the night, for protection from the rain. Instead of saying yes, my dad loaded us all up in the 1959 Chevrolet: the kids, my mom, and the hitchhiker. Our family consisted of three older children whose father had died young, and three more children from the union of my mother and father. Our older brother Jerry was in the Navy, on a ship somewhere over seas. It was too far away for me to even imagine what kind of a world he was seeing. All we little kids knew was that Jerry was a very long way from home and that our mom and dad worried about him. I had never seen my mom sit next to my dad in the car before, but the hitchhiker took her seat near the passenger door, and so she scooted to the center next to my dad. Mom watched the man fidget nervously as we drove him 10 miles to the next town where dad bought the stranger a room for the night along with a hot evening meal. After we dropped off the hitchhiker, as we headed home in the car that night I heard my dad say to my mom, "I just hope that if Jerry ever needs anything, that this kindness will be returned to him." Weeks later, having told my uncle about the hitchhiker, the uncle suggested that perhaps my dad shouldn't have taken the risk of having a stranger in our car. My dad replied, "You are absolutely right. I should have invited him into our home." by Cathy Weber-Zunker -<>- __..--. } ,/'.'--. .''_x<"| `\, / /\`,\_.`=.__} / / `"" `"' / / _....: ; .-"".---._.-""" { `r-. {`---...__.-""`. `.(),`. `--.___.' / '=` \ .-"""--.._.-"" ; /.' | | _.`-._ | ; .' `:-..___.. | `" | `-._ _ ; : `""" ; \ ; \ ; __ \ `. ; .'` `"|=. : ; :o L ;`; .' `.|/ : __..._.| |/: ; ,__ \` - :\ : | }\ `. `""--.._J{@/, '}'| ; ;/' `j-..------.7__ ' ; \ /_ `._ _...-' __.-'\ : ;-. `""""-._ `""__..--" `. ` \ fsc `""" `---" And so, another year has come and gone. I am grateful that providence has chosen to spare me one more of those to spend with family. And how was your New Year? Ours was quiet, in typical postman fashion. My 2 grown adult chillens that still live with us were out on the town, leaving me to cuddle up with the war department and Turk the dog, (aka Carlos the rat)on the love seat with a quilt. She managed to rent all the cd's of the Star Wars movies. Been so long since we've seen them, we want to watch em all again afore we go see the new Star wars...that and a bowl full of popcorn was the sum total of our evening. This past year has been a monumental one for me. There have been great victories. The vanquishing of the ciggies for me this year was a milestone, the fulfillment of a promise I made to her many years ago. It just took me 36 years to make good on it. I have also had my disappointments. My battles with food addiction and caffeine has been not so good. This year, I lost ten pounds, but gained 15... And while I did manage to kick the soda pop/Mountain Dew habit, I have failed miserably in the coffee department. As you might guess, I have my resolutions for the new year. It is not just to lose weight, although I plan to do so. And it is not just to kick the coffee... It is a move toward a healthier lifestyle. And not just physically. I plan to explore the spiritual aspects also. I plan to spend some time volunteering this year. I need to make a more meaningful contribution to my fellow man I believe, if I am to achieve a more meaningful life style. Being meaningful to those around you is a great facet of a healthier lifestyle. Sheeshe. I'm starting to sound like that Opree Winefree lady! If I do not stop I'm gonna say something silly and get all teary eyed !!! I hope that you and yours have a absolutely BLESSED and WONDERFUL NEW YEAR! and that we can all move to a healthier lifestyle! Regards Martin aka the postman PS. oh, and the bowlful of popcorn? no butter or salt. and it was organic. what the h---? they make organic popcorn? who knew? -<>- .-. .--..-"""-7_ / : : `: | .' ._`. 7 .=" "`: : , : : The New Year's Gift http://heroicstories.org/new-years-gift/ On New Year's Eve many years ago, I was driving back to graduate school in Rochester, New York. In Binghamton, New York, halfway between my parents' house and school, smoke suddenly came out of my car engine. My car was an old Ford Mustang that had seen better days. I got off the highway and made it to a small gas station near the exit. The attendant found that my engine was completely without oil. I bought enough oil to refill the engine, but we saw it leaking out again rapidly. He sold me a few extra cans and gave me directions to a good garage he knew of. At the garage, I told the owner what had happened. He came out, looked the car over and checked the oil; it was half empty already. He said I'd have to wait; other customers were ahead of me and they were supposed to close at 1:00 p.m. for New Year's Eve. It was nearly 11 a.m. and I was in a strange town with no place to go, so I sat on some plastic crates and waited. Eventually the owner came over to tell me my oil pressure gauge had snapped off. He'd have to get a new part from the auto parts store, which was closed, but he'd make some calls. I found out later the store owner was his friend, and had not only reopened the store but delivered the part himself. The whole time, I was figuring out how much cash was in my pocket, how much was in my bank account, would they take a check and what I could possibly leave for collateral if they wouldn't. For three hours people came and went. One worker bought me a coke, and the mailman gave me half his sandwich when he stopped for lunch at the garage. I was too afraid of being unable to pay the bill to buy anything for myself. Finally my car was off the lift and the owner called me over. "That will be seven forty," he said. I nearly fainted. "Seven hundred and forty dollars?" I squeaked. "No, seven dollars and forty cents," he said. "I have to charge you for the part." I was amazed and immediately filled with gratitude. I wanted to protest, but I needed what little money I did have for groceries and utilities until my next student loan arrived. With thanks and hugs for everyone in the garage, I gave them the tin of homemade Christmas cookies my mother had given me that morning. Their kindness has stayed with me for more than 20 years. All those men, from the garage owner to the mailman, knew they'd never see me again since I wasn't local. They could have ripped me off on price, or charged the repair's true value — over $200. Instead of taking advantage of my misfortune, they gave me the best New Year's gift ever — true kindness and charity. by Jerri Barrett --- ...Wonderfully rich stories! Thank You Fran! ========================================================== >-->From LaughAndLift: "A man's life is always more forcible than his speech. When men take stock of him they reckon his deeds as dollars and his words as pennies. If his life and doctrine disagree the mass of onlookers accept his practice and reject his preaching." - C.H. Spurgeon The Lift __ /_/\/\ \_\ / /_/ \ \_\/\ \ \_\/ unknown >THE COMMAND TO BE LIGHT (By list member Debbie Preuss, January 8, 2006) Jesus' command was that we be light Shining that others will fill with delight Just a little glow chases shadows away Turning the darkness into the day Shining His light for all to see Drawing them in for eternity When the light gleams from within Dispelling the dark, revealing the sin Shining into the corners so dark Chasing the shadows from the heart Like a lighthouse on a rocky shore Beaming a warning, but so much more It's lighting up the right way to go So sin doesn't destroy us, this much I know That Jesus is the true light on this earth He beckons the way, to Him we have worth He loves us and wants us to do the same Shining our light, in His own name Helping others find the firm road Coming beside them to lighten their load Don't let your own light fade away For we are called to shine and obey Shine that others will fill with delight For Jesus commanded that we be light -<>- We cannot earn by our merit what Christ has secured for us by His grace. The Lift __ /_/\/\ \_\ / /_/ \ \_\/\ \ \_\/ unknown >In Need of a Savior (Author Unknown) A young Hindu priest went to the home of a missionary in Calcutta to ask him some questions. In the course of their conversation, the young man said, "There are many things which Christianity contains that I can find in Hinduism; but there is one thing which Christianity has that Hinduism does not have." The missionary asked, "What is that?" His reply? "The one thing which Christianity has that Hinduism does not have is a Savior." ---------- Follow up note from Chris: Not just Hinduism, but all world religions apart from Biblical Christianity have this in common. All world religions, including the so-called "Christian Cults" (those we'd categorize as being "around" Christianity but straying from true Biblical Christianity), all in one way or another put an emphasis on what WE do to get right with God, which appeals to our flesh since we'd love to think we could do something to attain our way to Heaven and be right with God. In other words, you are at least in part - and often completely - your own "Savior". In contrast, Biblical Christianty says, "Sorry buddy - you can't right the wrong because you are a sinner in your nature and you could never do enough; you need a Savior - One that is perfect and can pay the penalty for your sin and satisfy God's justice." And in the Bible, we discover such a Savior, which God Himself out of His love for us, provided: Jesus Christ is that Savior. It is through our faith in Him that we become reconciled to God. Then we do good works OUT of that relationship with God, not in order to GET that relationship with God. If you are trusting in anything but Jesus' finished work on the cross to save you from your sins and provide the way for you to enter eternal life with Him in Heaven, then there is a problem and I'd recommend a read through the Gospel of John and the book of Romans. SUBSCRIBE INFO Want to receive a Christian inspirational item AND great clean humor in an email to you each day of the week? It's easy and FREE! Read all about Laugh & Lift at http://www.laughandlift.com --- ...Who Is Jesus Christ? He is the Lover of our souls, and that is why we love him and confess him as Lord... Rom. 10: [9] That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. See These Teachings: Who Is Jesus Christ? http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/BibleStudy/whoisjesus.html Our Valuable Anchor http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/BibleStudy/ouranchor.html Also - The Basics Menu http://www.absolutebiblestudy.com/Basics/Basics.htm ========================================================== >-->From Our Friend Fran :) _ _|_|_ ,|_| |_|_ || | | |_| || | | | | || | | | | _|| | | | | ||)\ ^ ^ ^ | || | | || | | || | | \\ | \\ / ejm )\ ( / \ \ / \ \ \ \ >New Years Prayer Thank you Lord for giving me The brand new year ahead Help me live the way I should As each new day I tread. Give me gentle wisdom That I might help a friend Give me strength and courage So a shoulder I might lend. The year ahead is empty Help me fill it with good things Each new day filled with joy And the happiness it brings. Please give the leaders of our world A courage born of peace That they might lead us gently And all the fighting cease. Please give to all upon this earth A heart that's filled with love A gentle happy way to live With Your blessings from above. ~ Charlotte Anselmo ~ --- ...Amen! Thanks Fran! >Updated FUN STUFF URLS - Oh Yeah Shangy! ------------------------------------------------------------------------ http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/urls.html FUN URLS ------------------------------------------------------------------------ -->FULL LENGTH - FREE On line AUDIO MP3 Christian Foundational Class http://www.truthortradition.com/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=61 NEW LIFE IN CHRIST! ------------------------------------------------------------------------ -->This is for all you who love food and DARE to make it at home Yep. You guessed it - Recipes. These are Tried and True, Yummy to the Tummy, good old fashioned home cooking recipes that are EASY to do Visit Shangy's Easy-Does-It Home Recipes: http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/easy.html Home Recipes >Got A good Recipe? 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