Spiritual Vitamins A to Z 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 ================ *~* 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! ================ >-->HOT Off The 'Shangy' Press :) This hot new page comes from our friends Linda and LouiseA. It gives us the lighter side of our hard working K9 friends and is sure to give you some smiles for your day. , /\ , / '-' '-' \ | POLICE | \ .--. / | ( 19 ) | \ '--' / '--. .--' jgs \/ Police Dogs! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/policedogs.html --- ...A wonderfully humorous one! Thanks Ladies! =========================================================== >-->From Heartwarmers: ) _ \ ) (_) _ () \ .-'` \ ) {_} () .-'````'-. / ) \ / `'-. ___ /.------. \| \ () \ .-'`___`;/ __ `\ | __ () | .'.-'` __'.| o/__\o |/ / /| \/ / o /__\o\ \\// /; // / ._ \_| \\//|`-.__.-'|\ '; / / \ .' \-.___.'| || |/ \/ `._ '-/ | || '.___./ . '-.\_.-' __'-._||_.-' _ / .`""===(||).___.(||)(||)----'(||)===...__ `"jgs"`""=====""""========"""====...__ `""==._ `"=. `"=. `"=. >THE SONGS OF CHRISTMAS by Kathy Whirity The other day a friend asked me if I was sick of hearing Christmas music on the radio. It didn't take me long to answer. On the contrary, I keep the radio tuned to the station that plays only the merry melodies that fill the air at this time of year. Who can get tired of the songs of the season when they keep you in a perpetual spirit of wonder and glee? We've been listening to the same songs for decades and the feelings they bring never lose their emotion, in fact those old songs multiply their meaning as life goes on. Babies first Christmas was made oh so special the year my nephew Ryan was born. Being the first grandchild in the family we fawned over the tiniest new addition. That year the song I loved the most was Jolly Old Saint Nicholas. I didn't know all the stanzas but I crooned what I knew and hummed the rest as Ryan and I rocked away many a cold winter's night. I am now a grandma of three and sing the words I've learned by heart to this younger generation, but the memory of Ryan as the babe in my arms still comes to mind even though it has been three decades and counting. Jingle Bell Rock I remember hearing often on that very first Christmas that Bill and I shared together. Our love was as fresh and delicate as new fallen snow back then. The years have accumulated into a blizzard of family life follies. When I hear the sounds of Jingle Bell Rock I'm reminded of what a rocking good life we have shared all these many years. The day after we've stuffed ourselves with Thanksgiving turkey and all the trimmings, the totes containing all our holiday hoopla are stacked in the family room. At first sight it looks like a daunting task, especially since each year my collection of decorations grows. With the help of Christmas classics streaming from the radio my home is transformed in all its seasonal splendor in no time at all. It's a fa-la-la-la good time when music mingles with the melody of feelings that only surface at this special time of year. I never get tired of hearing the sentimental lyrics of songs that can, in an instant, transport me back to yesteryear which causes me to belt out notes of nostalgia as grand kids wonder why grandma is acting goofy. No, I'm not hitting the spiked egg nog -- I'm just indulging in the joy of this most wonderful time of the year. The music, like the memories they invoke, never gets old to me. They are the link to Christmases past and present. A chorus of carols will continue to be savored and enjoyed, for time goes by in the blink of an eye as we hum the memories of Christmases gone by. -- Kathy Whirity __________________________________________________ Kathy is a syndicated newspaper columnist who shares her sentimental musings on family life. Kathy is also a contributing author to the Chicken Soup for the Soul book series and she and her husband, Bill, reside in Chicaqo where they are happily enjoying life as grandparents. You can visit Kathy's web site at: http://www.kathywhirity.com =========================================================== >-->From Our Friend Johanna :) ______ '-._ ```"""---.._ ,-----.:___ `\ ,;;;, '-.._ ```"""--.._ |,%%%%%% _ , '. `\;;;; -\ _ _.'/\ .' `-.__ \ ,;;;;" .__{=====/_)==:_ || ,===/ ```";,,,,,,,;;;;;'`-./.____,'/ / '.\/ '---/ ';;;;;;;;' `--.._.' / ,===/ '-. `\/ '---/ ,'`. | ; __.-' \ ,' jgs \______,,.....------'''`` `---` >He is Able If your Father is God and you have a problem on your hands, what do you do? Scripture tells us what to do. Is your problem too large? Ephesians 3:20 says, God is able to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. Is your need too great? 2 Corinthians 9:8 reminds us, God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance. Is your temptation too severe? Hebrews 2:18 says, God is able to help us when we are being tested. Is your future too frightening? Jude 24 tells us, God is able to keep you from falling away and will bring you with great joy into his glorious presence without a single fault. Make these verses part of your daily diet. God is able to accomplish, provide, help, save, keep, subdue. He is able to do what you can't. Go to Him! --- ...Beautiful reminder! Thanks Johanna! =========================================================== >-->From Our Friend LouiseA :) .========. .========. // I .'..' \ // VI.'.,".\ || II .'..'| || VII..'..| || III .'."| || VIII,'.'| || IV ,','.| || IX.'".'.| || V '..'.'| || X .'..',| jgs .\_________/ .\_________/ >Spiritual Vitamins A to Z Anxious? Take Vitamin A. (Romans 8:28 KJV) And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose. Blue? Take Vitamin B. (Psalms 103:1 KJV) A Psalm of David. Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless His holy name. Crushed? Take Vitamin C. (1 Pet 5:7 KJV) Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you. Depressed? Take Vitamin D. (James 4:8 KJV) Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. Empty? Take Vitamin E. (Psalms 100:4 KJV) Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise: be thankful unto Him, and bless His name. Fearful? Take Vitamin F. (Isaiah 41:10 KJV) Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. Greedy? Take Vitamin G. (Luke 6:38 KJV) Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again. Hesitant? Take Vitamin H. (Isaiah 52:7 KJV) How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth! Insecure? Take Vitamin I. (Phil 4:13 KJV) I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. Jittery? Take Vitamin J. (Hebrews 13:8 KJV) Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and forever. Know nothing? Take Vitamin K. (Psalms 100:3 KJV) Know ye that the LORD He is God: it is He that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are His people, and the sheep of His pasture. Lonely? Take Vitamin L. (Mat 28:20 KJV) Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen. Mortgaged? Take Vitamin M. (2 Corinthian 12:9 KJV) And He said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for My strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Nervous? Take Vitamin N. (Hebrews 13:5 KJV) Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for He hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. Overwhelmed? Take Vitamin O. (Romans 12:21 KJV) Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good. Perplexed or puzzled? Take Vitamin P. (John 14:27 KJV) Peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. Quitting? Take Vitamin Q. (1 Corinthians 16:13 KJV) Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong. Restless? Take Vitamin R. (Psalms 37:7 KJV) Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for Him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass. Scared? Take Vitamin S. (1 Sam 22:23 KJV) Abide thou with Me, fear not: for he that seeketh my life seeketh thy life: but with Me thou shalt be in safeguard. Tired? Take Vitamin T. (Isaiah 40:31 KJV) But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. Uncertain? Take Vitamin U. (Isa 43:10 KJV) Ye are My witnesses, saith the LORD, and My servant whom I have chosen: that ye may know and believe Me, and understand that I am He: before Me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after Me. Vain? Take Vitamin V. (Acts 5:16 KJV) There came also a multitude out of the cities round about unto Jerusalem, bringing sick folks, and them which were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed every one. Wondering what to do? Take Vitamin W. (Micah 6:8 KJV) He hath showed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? eXhausted? Take Vitamin X. (1 Tim 4:7 KJV) But refuse profane and old wives' fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness. Yearning for hope? Take Vitamin Y. (Psalms 23:4 KJV) Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me. Zapped? Take Vitamin Z. (Titus 2:14 KJV) Who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. In all seasons, in all times, the Word of God is Your Answer! :) Make reading the Word of God a priority in your life! --- ...A most beautiful one! Thanks LouiseA! ========================================================== >-->From Archives InspiredBuffalo: . | . | . | \|/ \ / -= * =- '. .----. .' /|\ / \ ' | ' -= | .----. | | / /""\ | / \( / m m ' ) ) - ) / /-./~` ( ( `.`\ /| . ) )\ \/_/ / . | . ( ( \_.-'` \ ' / \ \.| -= <*^*^*> =- jgs |\____\\ | ( " ) | _) \ |()'"'()| _.-' , | | (___) | /| . ` ; (`-.___.-') /_/____________/ '-.___.-' >Tender Mercies I wrote a letter to God today and I know each line He heard I think He felt my meaning even before I wrote a word I thanked Him for each tender mercy that He's given me day to day I thanked Him for love and friendship a hope and joy to light my way I hope you can know the value that I place on all of these for the wealth of all my mercies my heart and soul they do please as you read the letter I wrote today somewhere in your heart you hold your own treasure of tender mercies to keep you strong and make you bold so stop each day, pause just once if not a letter, drop God a line let Him know how much it means that your tender mercies you can define Written and Copyright Beverly V December 1, 1998 -<>- >The Night before Christmas for MOMs 'Twas was the night before Christmas, when all thru the abode, only one creature was stirring, and she was cleaning the commode. The children were finally sleeping, all snug in their beds, while visions of Nintendo 64 and Barbie, flipped through their heads. The dad was snoring in front of the TV, with a half-constructed bicycle on his knee. So only the mom heard the reindeer hooves clatter, which made her sigh, "Now what's the matter?" With toilet bowl brush still clutched in her hand, she descended the stairs, and saw the old man. He was covered with ashes and soot, which fell with a shrug. "Oh great," muttered the mom, "Now I have to clean the rug." "Ho-ho-ho!" cried Santa, "I'm glad you're awake." "Your gift was especially difficult to make." "Thanks, Santa, but all I want is some time alone." "Exactly!" he chuckled, "I've made you a clone." "A clone?" she asked, "What good is that? Run along, Santa, I've no time for chit-chat." The mother's twin. Same hair, same eyes, same double chin. "She'll cook, she'll dust, " she'll mop every mess. You'll relax, take it easy, watch The Young & the Restless." "Fantastic!" the mom cheered. "My dream come true! "I'll shop. I'll read., I'll sleep a whole night through! " From the room above, the youngest began to fret. "Mommy?! I scared... and I 'm wet." The clone replied, "I'm coming, sweetheart." "Hey," the mom smiled, "She knows her part." The clone changed the small one, and hummed a tune, as she bundled the child, in a blanket cocoon. "You the best mommy ever. " I really love you." The clone smiled and sighed, "I love you, too." The mom frowned and said, "Sorry, Santa, no deal. " That's my child's love, she's trying to steal." Smiling wisely Santa said, "To me it is clear, " Only one loving mother, is needed here." The mom kissed her child, and tucked her into bed. "Thank you, Santa, " for clearing my head. I sometimes forget, it won't be very long, when they'll be too old, for my cradle-song." The clock on the mantle began to chime. Santa whispered to the clone, "It works every time." With the clone by his side Santa said, "Goodnight. Merry Christmas, Mom, You'll be all right. -<>- Sometimes, people come into your life & you know right away that they were meant to be there...to serve some sort of purpose, teach you a lesson or help you figure out who you are or who you want to become. You never know who these people may be, but when you lock eyes with them, you know that very moment that they will affect your life in some profound way. And sometimes, things happen to you that at the time may seem horrible, painful & unfair, but upon reflection you realize that without overcoming those obstacles, you would never realize your potential, strength, willpower or heart. Everything happens for a reason. Nothing happens by chance or by means of good luck. Illness, injury, love, lost moments of true greatness and sheer stupidity all occur to test the limits of your soul. Without these tests, life would be like a smoothly paved, straight, flat road to nowhere. Safe and comfortable, but dull & utterly pointless. The people that you meet affect your life. The success and downfalls that you experience can create who you are, & the bad experiences can be learned from. In fact, they are probably the most poignant and important ones. If someone hurts you, betrays you or breaks your heart - forgive them because they have helped you learn about trust & the importance of being cautious to whom you open your heart. If someone loves you, love them back unconditionally, not only because they love you, but also because they are teaching you to love & open your heart & eyes to little things. Make every day count. Appreciate every moment & take from it everything that you possible can, for you may never be able to experience it again. Talk to people you have never talked to before, & actually listen. Let yourself fall in love, break free & set your sights high. Hold your head up because you have every right to. Tell yourself you are a great individual & believe in yourself, for if you don't believe in yourself, no one else will. Create your own life, then go out & live it. Alicia M. Smith -<>- >Links for Your Enjoyment: From Dennis hi and Merry Christmas Jean has created a Christmas page for her website featuring my poetry and other guest poets : http://featuring_dennis.tripod.com -<>- Christmas Animations: For Angels, Candles, Doves http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/agifs.html For Crosses, Hearts, God, And Jesus http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/agifs_f-j.html For Nativity Scenes and New Years http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/agifs_k-o.html For Prayers, Santa, Sledding, and Snow http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/agifs_p-t.html For Words:Merry (Christmas) and Xmas (all other Christmas related) http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/agifs_u-z.html Holiday cooking: Easy-Does-It Home Recipes: http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/easy.html Full Christmas Index Menu http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/christmasindex.html Mirror Reflection http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/mirror.html Friends http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/friends.html No Pass Zone http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/elephant.html Nanny Animals 2! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/nannyanimals2.html Expensive Hotel Rooms http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/ehotels.html Modern Toilet http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/moderntoilet.html Notes To God http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/cnotes.html Thoughts into Action 3! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/action3.html Home Security! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/security.html Got A Nanosecond 4? http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/nano4.html Matchstick Art http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/matchstick.html Miniature Baby Art http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/baby.html World Of Big Cats http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/bigcats.html -<>- >From Our Friend Geniann :) Redneck Air Show! https://vimeo.com/100670266 Trump's Mouth is a Nuclear Weapon https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jviBhXRV6GE --- ...HaHa! Thanks Geniann! Dear Kitten: Regarding Friendship https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m0Cd0xOHx7Q --- ...Sweet! Thanks Genainn! -<>- >From Our Friend Melinda :) Use Apple Cider Vinegar To Treat Arthritis And Joint Pain Amazing Homemade Recipes http://tinyurl.com/h4xzhtg National Geographic Live! - Emily Ainsworth: Inside a Mexican Circus http://tinyurl.com/qgntydp "Don't Worry, Be Happy"" http://tinyurl.com/pgmmbod Patsy Cline - Life Is Like A Mountain Railroad.avi http://tinyurl.com/zbv56l9 --- ...Good ones! Thanks Melinda! -<>- >From Our Friend LouiseA :) This uplifting video was shared with me, and I wanted to share the blessing with you as well, as I hope you will share with others. Have a wonderful day. Note: This video will play much better with the music, so turn on your speakers and hit play! https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=zf_0jzPQ8lo Magician Nate Staniforth performs the impossible and amazing 'Lottery Ticket Illusion.' For centuries magicians have been amazing people all over the world by creating stunning and seemingly impossible illusions. These illusions make liars of our senses and defy normal reasoning or logic. This video showcases one of Nate Staniforth's favorites. How does he do it? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J6q-WcLoIHc&feature=player_embedded British singer and songwriter Adele decides to participate in the fun of an audition for an Adele Impersonator and the results are hilarious to watch. Jenny is actually Adele with some fake facial features to change her appearance just enough to fool the other Adele impersonators. What she can't change is her amazing voice and when it's her turn to audition it gives her away much to the joy and astonishment of the other ladies. Their reactions are truly priceless as they realize what is happening. I bet they will remember their private concert with Adele for the rest of their lives. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OHXjxWaQs9o&feature=player_embedded Some animals want nothing more than to cuddle with you while you stroke their heads. Some, on the other hand, live on the dangerous side of the law, and will rob you blind! Here are a few of the culprits caught right in the act. Seems you can't trust anyone these days... https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=NX_OtJshYD4 --- ...Teehee! Thanks LouiseA! -<>- >From Our Friend PatDeE :) These are absolutely great. Just a pleasure to watch. 10 years of Budweiser commercials These commercials will put a smile on your face http://wallythekat.tripod.com/A_Pages/AA-Videos-YOU-Tube/Clydesdales.html --- ...Absolutely! Thanks PatDeE! 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 Fran :) |V| .::| |::. ::__| |__:: >____ ____< :: | | :: '::| |::' | | | | jgs |A| >Did You Miss Out on the Special Times? We had been in a long distance relationship for many months. I lived in New Jersey. She lived in North Carolina we'd both recently lost our first spouses. (2003) We struggled . , looking for a new life, a life with a new love. I remember the night she walked down the exit ramp at the Newark Airport. There were two college students filming greetings. I looked at them, "I have a greeting for you. I am about to meet my love for the first time. Ginny and I recognized each other immediately. "Michael?" "Yes." We stepped into each other's arms and kissed for the first time. My heart skipped a beat. She confessed that the hug reminded of a dream she had of her first husband Harvey. He met her in a meadow, hugged her and said, "It is going to be OK, Gin." I gave her that hug. She knew I was the one. I knew she was the one. We connected on the Internet and felt a connection. We met in person and knew it was true, but did we really have a love? How could we be sure? Months later I learned Ginny had an accident with her horse. She nearly lost her thumb when her horse reared and caught her thumb in the reins. I kept calling her in North Caroline, but she didn't answer. I was sick with worry. Why wasn't she answering her phone? Eventually, her son called me. It was the first time we'd talked. He told me, "Mike, Mom is headed to surgery." He explained what happened. I felt this wave of relieve flow through me. Ginny was hurt, but she was going to be OK. Later, I sat on the sofa and sighed. My worry for Ginny made me realize how much she meant to me ...how much I loved her. Years later, I took Ginny to the hospital with severe abdominal pain. It was her appendix. They removed it, but the surgeon told her, "Miriam (Her real name), I have never seen an appendix that big that hadn't burst. We sent it for a biopsy. There is a chance it might be a tumor." I felt tears burn my eyes. The fear of losing my wife was strong. It was another, "I love her moment." Luckily, it wasn't a tumor. Why do we wait until the fear of losing them, to make us realize how much we love them? Take every moment with them to enjoy your feelings you share. Enjoy your love at every minute. One day it will be end and you will be sorry you missed the love. This song says it for me: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AnXgZZkPP14&list=PLB746A1D8E25B91AC&index=2 -- Michael T. Smith --- ...So True! Thanks Fran! =========================================================== >-->From Our Friend Karen :) >Word of Wisdom from Winston Churchhill regarding Islam Winston Churchill 1899. "Individual Muslims may show splendid qualities, but the influence of the religion paralyses the social development of those who follow it. No stronger retrograde force exists in the world." This is amazing. Even more amazing is that this hasn't been published long before now. CHURCHILL ON ISLAM Unbelievable, but the speech below was written in 1899. (Check Wikipedia - The River War). http://www.snopes.com/politics/quotes/churchillislam.asp The attached short speech from Winston Churchill, was delivered by him in 1899 when he was a young soldier and journalist. It probably sets out the current views of many, but expresses in the wonderful Churchillian turn of phrase and use of the English language, of which he was a past master. Sir Winston Churchill was, without doubt, one of the greatest men of the late 19th and 20th centuries. He was a brave young soldier, a brilliant journalist, an extraordinary politician and statesman, a great war leader and British Prime Minister, to whom the Western world must be forever in his debt. He was a prophet in his own time. He died on 24th January 1965, at the grand old age of 90 and, after a lifetime of service to his country, was accorded a State funeral. HERE IS THE SPEECH: "How dreadful are the curses which Mohammedanism lays on its votaries! Besides the fanatical frenzy, which is as dangerous in a man as hydrophobia in a dog, there is this fearful fatalistic apathy. The effects are apparent in many countries, improvident habits, slovenly systems of agriculture, sluggish methods of commerce, and insecurity of property exist wherever the followers of the Prophet rule or live. A degraded sensualism deprives this life of its grace and refinement, the next of its dignity and sanctity. The fact that in Mohammedan law every woman must belong to some man as his absolute property, either as a child, a wife, or a concubine, must delay the final extinction of slavery until the faith of Islam has ceased to be a great power among men. Individual Muslims may show splendid qualities, but the influence of the religion paralyses the social development of those who follow it. No stronger retrograde force exists in the world. Far from being moribund, Mohammedanism is a militant and proselytizing faith. It has already spread throughout Central Africa, raising fearless warriors at every step; and were it not that Christianity is sheltered in the strong arms of science, the science against which it had vainly struggled, the civilization of modern Europe might fall, as fell the civilization of ancient Rome." Sir Winston Churchill; (Source: The River War, first edition, Vol II, pages 248-250 London). Churchill saw it coming. --- ...Interesting indeed! Thanks Karen. With Trump saying he would ban all Muslims from entering the US until we figure out what the heck is going on, this hits home. I do think Obama is too lax for the safety of our country right now, but Trump would have done well to target the countries that we know terrorists come from instead of all Muslims. We have to keep us first though. Our safety must come before the political correctness or worry of offending others - Just need to narrow it down more to not be such a broad blanket. -<>- >Here's some more info on this from our friend Melinda :) She writes: I was married to a Muslim for 10 years and yes, there are many good, productive Muslim people. However, it was never a secret that Christians are persecuted in the Middle East from birth. Our Muslim friends would talk about it openly and frankly. They spoke of discrimination and persecution of Christians just as openly as about their anticipation of the coming battle of "Armageddon." America is deporting Christians Not because they broke immigration laws! They are being singled out to suffer and flee just as they are in the middle East! It has been reported in several articles how they are mistreated by Muslims even in EUROPEAN refugee camps! These people are fleeing definite persecution and DEATH! Most of America's immigrants are here because they BROKE IMMIGRATION LAWS! THEY ARE REWARDED WITH ALL KINDS OF PROTECTION AND MONITORY SUPPLEMENTS TO SUSTAIN THEMSELVES. FEW, ARE FLEEING CERTAIN TORTURE, RAPE, AND DEATH BECAUSE OF THEIR BELIEFS! These are the people THAT TRULY NEED REFUGE! Sincerely, Melinda --- ...So very heart-wrenching to see this! Thanks Melinda! She sent us these links as well... Obama Deports Iraqi Christians http://tinyurl.com/zhrhro3 "Illegal immigrants Demand Their Money" http://tinyurl.com/zrdly7e "Illegal Immigrant Mother of Seven Given Food Stamps, Meds, Housing, and Social Security" http://tinyurl.com/jrtsosa Middle Eastern Men Arrested Near Mexican Border with Steel Cylinders -- Five young Middle Eastern men were apprehended by the U.S. Border Patrol this week in an Arizona town situated about 30 miles from the Mexican border, law enforcement and other sources told Judicial Watch. Border Patrol... http://tinyurl.com/o3dymdp --- ...Interesting! Thanks Melinda! ============================================================= _..._ .~ `~. / } \ _.'`~~/ {_,} -( ,'-,___.' .-. / |_ /| __| |__ / ` |_/ [__ __] / \ / | | / '--;_ | | _\ `\ | | / |`-.___. / | | ^^^jgs^^^`--`------'`--`^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ >An Extended Little Hand Story Editor: by Greg Bland Joyce Schowalter Queensland, Australia My daughter is a single mum bringing up two daughters, 6 and 3 years old. She is on limited money, aware it only stretches so far, so she economises, yet is aware her children need to be trained to be caring. So for a treat, she decided on a trip to the movie theatre to see "Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron". She bundled the little one into the stroller and all three headed out the two kilometres to the shopping mall where the movie theatre is. Of course, when going to the movies lollies and drinks are the order of the day, so she stopped at the store for that purchase. Next, she gave the children balloons each. As they continued on toward the movie theatre, the younger one was loudly singing the song, "Yes, Jesus loves me." My daughter saw a fairly old grey-haired bloke slowly shuffling along toward them. The next thing she knew, the old bloke had turned and was making his way straight to them. My daughter was a little concerned, so she stopped. All the while her 3-year-old, Ellie, was still singing. The old bloke shuffled up to them, bent down and addressed Ellie in a kindly voice saying, "That's a pretty balloon you have there, may I have it?" Ellie looked him straight in the eye and with an accepting smiling voice replied "Yes", and handed the balloon to him. A look of surprise and shock passed over the old bloke's face, as he reached for the balloon offered in an extended little hand. He thanked her gracefully and smiled broadly. Ellie's response surprised my daughter greatly. Three-year-old Ellie began to sing again but changed the lyrics slightly, to "Yes, Jesus loves you." Still smiling, the old bloke handed the balloon back, and said, "Thank you very much for sharing the balloon with me but it is really yours to keep." He looked at my daughter and said that it was unusual these days to experience such a kind and polite child. She explained that she was endeavouring to teach her children the value of sharing and respect of elders. With that, the old bloke turned and continued on his way and my daughter started walking again. Ellie bent forward in the stroller and looked back toward the old bloke as he shuffled away, calling out loudly, "Bye, bye" a number of times and waving. The old bloke stopped, partly turned and waved back. Tears were rolling down his cheeks as he waved, and when he continued on his way he seemed to stand taller and his shuffling seemed less pronounced. =======HeroicStories======= >-->From Our Friend Melinda :) _....._ .' `'-. / (- J-E-S-U-S ->< '._ _,.-' \ jgs ````` This story has been around before but worth another read...... >The "W" in Christmas Each December, I vowed to make Christmas a calm and peaceful experience. I had cut back on nonessential obligations - extensive card writing, endless baking, decorating, and even overspending. Yet still, I found myself exhausted, unable to appreciate the precious family moments, and of course, the true meaning of Christmas. My son, Nicholas, was in kindergarten that year. It was an exciting season for a six year old. For weeks, he'd been memorizing songs for his school's "Winter Pageant." I didn't have the heart to tell him I'd be working the night of the production. Unwilling to miss his shining moment, I spoke with his teacher. She assured me there'd be a dress rehearsal the morning of the presentation. All parents unable to attend that evening were welcome to come then. Fortunately, Nicholas seemed happy with the compromise. So, the morning of the dress rehearsal, I filed in ten minutes early, found a spot on the cafeteria floor and sat down. Around the room, I saw several other parents quietly scampering to their seats. As I waited, the students were led into the room. Each class, accompanied by their teacher, sat cross-legged on the floor. Then, each group, one by one, rose to perform their song. Because the public school system had long stopped referring to the holiday as "Christmas," I didn't expect anything other than fun, commercial entertainment songs of reindeer, Santa Claus, snowflakes and good cheer. So, when my son's class rose to sing, "Christmas Love," I was slightly taken aback by its bold title. Nicholas was aglow, as were all of his classmates, adorned in fuzzy mittens, red sweaters, and bright snowcaps upon their heads. Those in the front row- center stage - held up large letters, one by one, to spell out the title of the song. As the class would sing "C is for Christmas," a child would hold up the letter C. Then, "H is for Happy," and on and on, until each child holding up his portion had presented the complete message, "Christmas Love." The performance was going smoothly, until suddenly, we noticed her; a small, quiet, girl in the front row holding the letter "M" upside down - totally unaware her letter "M" appeared as a "W". The audience of 1st through 6th graders snickered at this little one's mistake. But she had no idea they were laughing at her, so she stood tall, proudly holding her "W". Although many teachers tried to shush the children, the laughter continued until the last letter was raised, and we all saw it together. A hush came over the audience and eyes began to widen. In that instant, we understood the reason we were there, why we celebrated the holiday in the first place, why even in the chaos, there was a purpose for our festivities. For when the last letter was held high, the message read loud and clear: "C H R I S T W A S L O V E" And, I believe, He still is. Amazed in His presence... .humbled by His love. Again, HAVE A BLESSED CHRISTMAS SEASON! --- ...Such a sweet classic! Thanks Melinda! ========================================================== >-->From Kidwarmers: * . . . | . * * . \|/ . . -->*<-- . /|\ . ' | ' * | . * . | . ' _ _ .:. . ( | .-. ___ .'_`. WWW \w/ \V/ |/(_)\ .'.-.`. `(_)' (_) (_) (_) |// \\ `/(_)\' // \\ _/ | _/ | _/ | _ _ \/| |/ //)_(\\ \| |/ %%__/| $$__/| &&__/| _-(_)- _-(_)- | | | /(o___))\ | | | | | | | | `(___) `(___) | | | ` / \' | | | | | | | | jgs // \\ // \\ | |_| /_____\ |_| |_| |_| |_| >THE FUNNIEST THINGS KIDS SAY When Gale took Joshua, 5, to see Santa, Joshua told Santa that he would be so kind if he could get him a skateboard. Then Joshua added, "If you are tired you can take a nap in my bed so that you can finish delivering presents to other boys and girls!" -- Gale Spence (grandmother of Joshua) of Angola, Indiana Here is another story from Gale. Joshua, 5, heard he might have to get his shots updated. He also heard maybe his new puppy would be getting its baby shots. "I don't want any baby shots," Joshua said. "I'm too little to have kids!" LeAnn's husband Lance was in the hospital, and the nurses were restricting young visitors because of the flu. Cayden, 4, wanted to go to the hospital to see his Papa Lance. His mother, Lindy, told him he wasn't old enough to go. He told his mom, "If they want me to be 24, then I'll just tell them I'm 24." His dad, Jason said, "Well, Cayden, what if they don't believe you are 24?" He answered, "Well, then I'll tell them I'm 26!" -- LeAnn Robinson (grandmother of Cayden) of Kendallville, Indiana ___ /` __`. ; {.__._} | / (-\-| {}| `-=-( { `-.__/} / `-..___.'\ | o \ | | o | \ _ ;= \ __o__|, \/ /.--. \ /`}####(\_.'} .--' /\{_/._) \{.-`( {`-.._____.-`}/\_)'. `'._ _./ '-. ;`"";""`|; \ | | || T O Y S | | | |\ / | -| / '._____.-' jgs |___|___| {_ _}___} |##||##|_ |##||#####\ \##/'=='==' "" Linda got to pick Miles up at the daycare for a change. When they arrived at home, Miles, 4, got down the marbles and asked if Linda wanted to play with him. Linda said sure. They assumed their positions on the floor. Miles dumped the marbles on the floor, scattered them, and made sure they each had a shooter. He rolled his first and hit a couple of marbles. Linda went and also hit a few. After a few rolls, Linda noticed that Miles began to pick up a handful of marbles instead of just the ones hit. At his next handful, Linda said, "Wait a minute, you didn't hit all of those marbles." With a shrug of his little shoulders and his hands turned upward, he said, "Well . maybe I need glasses!" -- Linda Jackson (grandmother) of Kendallville, Indiana One day at the elementary school in Plano, Texas where Linda's brother-in-law was the principal, some young boys crawled under a temporary building and wouldn't come out when the teacher instructed them to do so. When Linda's brother-in-law was called to the scene, he told the boys, using his best, deep, authoritative principal voice, "You boys better come out right now." They reluctantly crawled out, holding their hands up as if Linda's brother-in-law was an old west sheriff. It was pretty hard for him and the teacher to keep their faces straight! -- Linda Beavert of Texas Gay tells about when her daughter Elena went to go wake up her dad for breakfast on Saturday morning. Elena's dad was stretching to wake up. He couldn't help but laugh when Elena told him, "Daddy, stop your eyebrows from being grumpy at me!" -- Dawn Keen (co-worker of Gay) of New Mexico Evan was 5 when his family moved from Phoenix, Ariz., to Ohio. Quite a culture -- and climate -- shock. On his first autumn day in Ohio Evan was playing outside. He came running into the house, exclaiming, "Mommy, Mommy! Come quick. You have to see this!" He then went outside and spun around under the maple tree, as if catching snowflakes. "Look, it's snowing leaves!" Evan said. --LindaDiehl (grandmother of Evan, who is 7 now) of Avilla, Indiana When Melissa was quite small they were going out of town to visit her mother's mother and step-father. When they went to the garage they found someone had stuck long strips of duct tape like streamers all over one side. Myrna and her husband were able to quickly clean it up and get on their way. They commented to each other how much easier the duct tape was to clean up than if it had been paint. When they got to Myrna's parents' house, they had a new scotch tape dispenser shaped like a duck. The tape was held in the body and came up over the head and bill where there was a cutter for the tape. Melissa hadn't seen this before. After studying it a bit, she said, "Mommy, is that duck tape?" -- Myrna Dooley (mother of Melissa) of Pueblo, Colorado . | . | . | \|/ \ / -= * =- '. .----. .' /|\ / \ ' | ' -= | .----. | | / /""\ | / \( / m m ' ) ) - ) / /-./~` ( ( `.`\ /| . ) )\ \/_/ / . | . ( ( \_.-'` \ ' / \ \.| -= <*^*^*> =- jgs |\____\\ | ( " ) | _) \ |()'"'()| _.-' , | | (___) | /| . ` ; (`-.___.-') /_/____________/ '-.___.-' Lydia has beautiful thick, curly hair. However, it is quite often awry when she wakes up in the morning. Her daughter Cora, 3, is getting to be quite a Star Wars fan (like her daddy). One morning Cora greeted her mother this way, "Hey,Chewbacca! You're not Chewbacca, are you, Mommy?" -- Susan Meadors (currently living in Texas, for six months, but a resident of Kentucky) Lark's family was with her grandparents for Thanksgiving. Lark, 2, was planning to spend two nights with them, and her grandpa said to her, "Oh, boy, Nanna and I are so happy you are going to spend two nights with us." Lark responded, almost indignantly, "I'm not a boy! I'm a good girl!" -- Dennis Smith (Lark's and Dalton'sPawPaw) of Oak Ridge, North Carolina Dalton, 6, was supposed to be dressing in clean clothes in preparation for the extended family's Thanksgiving gathering. Before dressing, he appealed to his mother just once more: "Why do I have to dress up? PawPaw is blind and can't see me anyway!" (Note from Grace: I have come to know Dennis over the years because of his many contributions to this column. What an amazing PawPaw he is! I never received a clue from any of his previous e-mails that he is blind.) Tim, 10, and his father went to the doctor recently. While waiting in the exam room Tim noticed a sign about customer satisfaction that was signed "Drs. Corbin, Chandler, Lane, Warrener and Staff." Tim asked his father, "Who's Doctor Staff?" -- James Tew (father of Tim) of Kendallville, Indiana ___ _[___]_ _ ( " ) [_] '--(`~:~`)--|' / `-:-' \ | _..--\ : /--. ' jgs'-----' '- Cathy was taking her grandson Jacob, 4, to pre-kindergarten one morning. He had gotten a haircut the day before and really liked it. As he got out of the car he patted his head and asked, "Is my haircut still on?" -- Cathy Youngblood of Carthage, Texas Kaylie, 2, sometimes does not like going to bed when she's supposed to. So, she has learned that there are many ways of getting Daddy to let her back out of bed. With requests like, "Daddy, I'm hungry!" or "Daddy, I'm thirsty!" Kaylie found that certain requests worked quite well. Finally one night, her father realized that his precious first-born daughter had just eaten recently, had just had a drink of water, and that these pleas were becoming a nightly ritual. Daddy decided that he wasn't going to respond to her calls and maybe she would go to sleep. Suddenly Kaylie proclaimed, "Daddy, why aren't you listening to Kaylie? I don't appreciate it!" -- Linda Segedy (grandmother of Kaylie) of southeast Michigan _..._ | | | | |_..._| __.;.---.;.__ '-/ \-' ._ , | o _ o | . _ \| | (_> | , |/ _\\ . '\ '---' / \//--. ` \\/ |`'-----;`\-.//_ .--\\ .'-.____.|-(.// , \) _ \ \/ '-'\ | (_) | ||.__/ | _ \ \| """" ""| (_) \_.;"" """ "" jgs \ / "" "" ... '._ _.' "" ... .. '-----' """ .. """ Christy and her 4-year-old grandson were riding in the car listening to Wee sing gospel songs. He is very knowledgeable about all types of construction equipment and can spot them anywhere. The song playing on the CD was "Bringing in the sheaves." Christy's grandson heard: "Here we go a reaping, bringing in machines, bringing in machines, bringing in machines!" It made perfect sense to him --if you were in the field reaping you would indeed need machines. --Christy Blue (grandmother) of Lincoln, Nebraska Sophie is in first grade, and Jacob is in junior kindergarten. They enjoy sleep overs at their grandparent's house. A big part of the entertainment is "making believe." One evening Sophie informed her Oma that she would pretend to be a reporter. She had a clipboard and a pencil. "Oma, do you like Mary?" Oma happens to know quite a few wonderful Marys, so she asked, "which Mary?" "THE Mary, Oma!" The answer was yes. "Oma, do love Jesus?" Again the answer was yes. "Oma do you love God?" "Yes." Who is your best friend?" The answer was Pa (Sophie and Jacob's grandpa.) "Well then, I really do not NEED to ask you if you love children." At the time the room was strewn with plastic containers from "let's pretend this is a restaurant" game! The sleep over was a huge success -- as they all are! -- Johanna (Oma) in Peterborough, Ontario, Canada L E T I T .--._ S / (`{_} ) *\ N / | |* '. O /_...._* \ ;' ____ '.| W _ _ / .' `'. \ _ /` `| / `\ _ (_/ e e \_) _/ ` / | ' |_ | /) | ( '. _.-' '. .' ) \ // , / .' `._) `(_.' '. /'(/"""`_.;,_.'* / \ * './ `----`\.:\\ / \ * \ :: :: :| .|| * / '. ':: :: _/:'|' / '. * `````/` |* .' | * /.:'/ | \ * ,'` /* / .'._ / .:'| _.'. .' `"|.:' \ '. / \' .:. \ ; \ .:' '-._ ; " "-. _| ':' .:' = |- "`` --. | '. .:' = | ; `-:_= ; \ / jgs '. .' `"- ... -- "` Cali, 6, and her mom, Cathy, were picking up Cali's brother Zach from school. They were in the car rider's line and Cali asked where the buses were. Cathy told her they were on the other side of the school where the football field is. Cali then asked if the buses were on the track (which is around the football field). Of course, Cathy told her no. Cali thought for a minute and then said, "If they were on the track the bus driver and the kids would say, 'We are just going around and around. how do we get off?'" -- Cathy of Dillard, Georgia Note: You are welcomed to use, copy and share these stories, but please reference http://www.funnykids.com as the source. ========================================================== >-->From Our Friend Fran :) .-----------------------------------------------------. | __ ___________________ | _________________ __ | || / / '.|.' \ \ || ||/ / ___ -= + =- \ \|| | / ******* .'|'. ___ \ | | / /-====) | ******* \ | || | / -( | (_.- )) || || / / _/ )- ) )) || || | |-( _ \_( (( || || / | \ //| _ )) ) ) || || / \ \/\/ |\\ /'-( ( || || | |\ / *** \/\/ / ) ) || || `-;./==;-' .=. \ / ( ( || || | \ _\/(_)\/_ '-;==) ) || || | \ |'---'| / ( ( || || | \ _| |_ / ) ) || || _/ | /\ /\ | ( ( || || .-/ / '=' \ ( )-. || |jgs `""---`-----` `----`----`""` || >Christmas Time Christmas dreams fill us all Our eyes are sparking bright Smiles and laughter fill the air As we wait for Christmas night. Twinkling stars light our way Reflected on white snow Singing carols happily As through the town we go. Gifts are wrapped so prettily To sit beneath the tree Except for just one little space Right in front where all can see. A tiny straw filled manger lit by one small light The reason that we celebrate For He was born this night. ~ Charlotte Anselmo ~ --- ...I do love the nativity scene! 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? SHARE IT HERE: Share A Recipe ************************************************************************ >TO SUBSCRIBE: Visit Here This Weeks regular Shangy emails OR For the Yahoo ShangyFunList: To Subscribe send a blank email to ShangyFunList-subscribe@yahoogroups.com ************************************************************************