Yvonne's Place

Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T00:07:00.000-08:00

I wish you already a happy new year! Let's pop the cork tonight and have a great party everyone! :o)

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T07:44:00.000-08:00

I wish you all a Merry Christmas! :o)

The swiss version of Santa Clause

2011-12-06T11:09:00.000-08:00

Here in Switzerland we celebrate today the "Samichlaus" (Santa Clause). And here is the story of this day:

his is not the Santa Claus known to English-speaking countries but the Swiss version – who is normally accompanied by a strange-looking individual with a blacked out face.

The Swiss Father Christmas was based on Saint Nicholas, whose feast day was celebrated on Saturday – his Swiss German name, Samichlaus, alludes to that. But the origins of his sinister companion are less easy to make out.

Known as Schmutzli in the German part of the country and Père Fouettard (from "whip") in French, Samichlaus's alter ego usually carries a broom of twigs for administering punishment to children whose behaviour throughout the year has not been up to scratch.

Over the years though, and despite retaining his foreboding appearance, Schmutzli has evolved into a more benign figure.

At a Samichlaus parade in Bern's old town on the last Saturday of November he helped hand out gifts of gingerbread and mandarins to the assembled hordes.

There is evidence though that in more conservative parts of the country the traditional Schmutzli is still alive and well.

Lucerne resident Margareta Simons reports that at a St Nicholas gathering there a group of teenage Schmutzlis started chasing some of the children. When they caught a boy, they thrashed him with a broomstick.

"It was quite frightening," she said. "Later they were roaming round the district, knocking their broomsticks on the buses to scare the children inside."

" They were knocking their broomsticks on the buses to scare the children inside. "
Margareta Simons
Origins

The celebration of St Nicholas Day goes back centuries. According to ethnologist Paul Hugger, writing in the Historical Lexicon of Switzerland, the cult of the saint spread from Italy in the 11th century.

St Nicholas of Myra was said to have shown particular kindness to children and became associated with the giving of gifts.

Kurt Lussi, the curator of religious folklore at Lucerne's History Museum, says that the St Nicholas custom in Switzerland became interwoven with a festival of noise and masks dating back to pre-Christian times.

Schmutzli, he says, was a symbol of the evil spirits which these ancient festivals sought to drive out with a combination of noise and light. Winter processions involving loud noise and lanterns continue to this day in many parts of Switzerland.

"From 1910 we have documented evidence of a strange figure who appears on St Nicholas Day and is called Butzli, which was later changed to Schmutzli," said Lussi.

"Schmutzli means an ugly character with a concealed face, and this figure appeared with a black face, red eyes and a black cap."

According to Lussi, Schmutzli is a figure that derives from the Perchtenlaufen – festivals of driving out demons that are held in Germany and alpine countries.

He gives the example of an illustration from 1486 that depicts a demon who abducts children. "This child-stealing motif returns again in Schmutzli," he said. "There's also the Sträggele, another child-stealing figure which I would call a native Swiss demon. Birch brooms are associated with it and that's also what Schmutzli carries."

" It was about protecting the marriage market against outsiders. "
Paul Hugger
Recent times

Hugger says that the December 6 tradition was originally a form of "letting off steam" for groups of young men, an occasion for them to dress up and make a lot of noise. It was also about protecting their patch.

"Schmutzlis normally appeared in groups. That's because it was originally a custom observed by groups of boys, who wanted to defend the local girls from boys from outside their village. It was about protecting the marriage market against outsiders."

But later the Catholic Church tried to "civilise" this rowdy custom by introducing the character of St Nicholas the bishop. And Schmutzli became his companion.

Until the Second World War Schmutzli was known only in Catholic areas – mainly in central and southern Switzerland, according to Hugger.

"It's new that he's spread. And that's because he's a colourful character.

"Schmutzli brings a touch of fear, which makes the whole thing more attractive. He provides a contrast with the figure of St Nicholas."

Here to stay

While St Nicholas Day is a quite separate celebration from Christmas, its proximity to December 25 has led to a certain confusion between the Swiss Samichlaus and the American Santa Claus. Today's Samichlaus is more often seen with a red hood over his head rather than the traditional bishop's mitre.

If globalisation means Samichlaus's position is threatened by the growing popularity of the North American Santa Claus, what will become of Schmutzli?

Lussi is convinced both Samichlaus and Schmutzli will survive. "The American Santa Claus has, like Halloween, no big future here. There's no demand. His appearance is limited to stores and maybe shopping malls or as a figure scaling a building," he said.

"But that he would at some point take over from St Nicholas and the wild chasing away of spirits – the chances of this are nil."

2. Advent

2011-12-04T14:34:00.000-08:00

I wish to all my friends a beautiful 2. Advent. :o)

Memories

2011-12-01T13:48:00.000-08:00

Jérôme with Sally

Sally in summer 2006

Yes, yes. There are good memories and sad. This week I had both. On November 29th was the anniversary of the death of Sally 5. Even five years. As the time goes by. On the other hand, I got some nice pictures of Sally for a Christmas present for mom. I hope you like the pictures.

Thank you very much Frank and Judith for the pictures!

Sally

2011-11-13T07:12:00.000-08:00

This video reminds me of Sally.

Video from Aesch/BL

2011-09-06T11:59:00.000-07:00

Hello my friends!

Here I post a small video of my new place Aesch. The video I shot while not itself, but it's all depends what I would like to show you. :o)

Online again finally!

2011-08-22T12:01:00.000-07:00

Hello my friends!
Finally I'll get back here. I'm finally back online! It has gone on long enough, because you probably right. Since July 19 I live in my own apartment in Aesch. It is a two-bedroom apartment and about 64 square meters. I will soon be pictures of my new home here and really redeem my promise to post more and post. Promise! :o)

Thank you very much!

2011-05-15T01:59:00.000-07:00

Thank you for all the good wishes and gifts from the past! I am so touched by how many people have remembered my birthday!
Yesterday was a wonderful day. Only the weather was not as nice. But it was fine.
I'll even post a photo of Lina and me. It was last Sunday at Linas 7th Birthday.

Carneval in Liestal 13.03.11

2011-03-16T03:36:00.000-07:00

Carneval in Reinach

2011-03-14T12:39:00.000-07:00

Carnevaltime!

2011-03-13T03:06:00.000-07:00

Long, long ago, I wrote something, I know. In recent weeks a lot has happened and then I fell exhausted into bed. I had no strength to write. Please forgive!
But now is again posted something and I hope that tomorrow I can post some pictures from today afternoon. I go to the carnival to Liestal with Alex and Co. will begin tomorrow, the carnival in Basel. With the famous "Morgestraich". The Basel carnival will follow me for the most part on television. Because it is very difficult in these 3 days, with the wheelchair in Basel to be on the road. Especially the big "Gugge concert on Tuesday evening I'll be looking at.
I'm in Diepflingen with my parents. Diepflingen, Liestal today as carnival. It is a big "Guggenconcert"on the town square. I hear even up to the apartment.
Well, I wish you all a wonderful carnival! :o)

Happy Birthday!

2011-01-15T03:20:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Dad! I wish you a wonderful day with many surprises! :o)

Bye Grandpa

2011-01-14T10:37:00.001-08:00

Dear Grandpa!
On Tuesday the 11th January did you leave our world forever. I hope you are now in a better place. I also know you had it just usually not in your life. Your daughter, as well as your wife you have lost much too soon. They have lost the battle against her illness. But you never lost your courage. Thank you for allowing me to meet you. You have learned me a lot. Thank you! I will never forget you! Your Yvonne

Arno, the sweet little Punker

2010-12-28T00:04:00.000-08:00

Christmastime in Basel

2010-12-25T06:50:00.001-08:00

Here a few pics of Basel in the Christmastime! I hope, you like it! :o)

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-24T08:34:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas to you all! Finally, I post again something in my blog! It was a difficult year for me. Therefore I would like to thank you for all your support! You guys are great!Have a wonderful party with your family!Thank you, that you are my friends!

Baby and Dog

2010-09-25T03:59:00.000-07:00

I can only say: Thats so sweet! :o)

Chocolate

2010-09-18T02:55:00.000-07:00

Chocolate, chocolate, chocolate chocolate chocolate!
When you take a bite, you will taste its delight,
chocolate, chocolate, chocolate chocolate chocolate,
it is so nice, sometimes covered in rice!

Chocolate, chocolate, chocolate chocolate chocolate!
It will make you scream, and sometimes will be covered in cream!
Chocolate, chocolate, chocolate chocolate chocolate,
when you take a nibble the side, it will take you on a fantastic ride!

Chocolate, chocolate, chocolate chocolate chocolate!
It will make you jump with joy, it will make you act so coy!
chocolate, chocolate, chocolate chocolate chocolate,
Pay for the choclate with every last penny, and buy so many and many!

Ross Bateman

Handicap-Parking!

2010-05-30T03:05:00.001-07:00

:o)

Happy Birthday Lina

2010-05-08T06:59:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Lina! Now you are 6 years old! Wow the time is running....I wish you a wonderful day! We see us soon! :o)

When Half is Enough

2010-04-27T03:59:00.000-07:00

Thisis an incredible story ...
"Half Man - Half Price Store"
The Story of Peng Shuilin
In life we keep complaining about what is or why we don't have. Half the time we seem dissatisfied, though full-bodied and free to choose. Fat people say,"I want to be slim." Skinny people say,"I want to be fatter." Poor people want to be rich and rich are never satisfied with what they have. PENG Shuilin is 78cms high. He was born in Hunan Provinc China In 1995, in Shenzhen,a freight truck sliced his body in half.His lower body and
> legs were beyond repair.
>
>
>
>
> Surgeons sewed up his
> torso.
> Peng Shuilin, 37,
> spent nearly two years in hospital in
> Shenzhen,
> southern China,
> undergoing a series of
> operations to re-route nearly every major
> organ
> or system inside his body.
>
> Peng kept exercising
> his arms, building up strength, washing his
> face
> and brushing his teeth.
>
>
> He survived against
> all odds.
> Now Peng Shulin has
> astounded doctors by learning to walk again
> after a decade.
>
>
> Considering Peng's
> plight, doctors at the China Rehabilitation
> Research Centre in
> Beijing
>
> devised
> an ingenious way to allow him to walk on
> his own,
> creating a
> sophisticated egg cup-like casing to hold
> his
> body, with two bionic legs
> attached.
>
>
> It took careful
> consideration, skilled meaasurement and
> technical expertize.
> Peng has
> been walking the corridors of
> Beijing Rehabilitation Centre
>
> with the aid of his
> specially adapted legs and a resized
> walking
> frame.
>
>
>
>
> RGO is a recipicating
> gait orthosis, attached to a prosthetic
> socket
> bucket.
> There is a cable
> attached to both legs so when one goes
> forward,
> the other goes backwards.
> Rock to the side, add
> a bit of a twist and the leg without the
> weight
> on it advances,
> while the other one
> stays still, giving a highly
> inefficent way of ambulation.
>
> Oh so satisfying to
> 'walk' again after ten years with half a
> body!
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> Hospital vice-president Lin Liu
> said: "We've just given him a checkup; he
> is
> fitter than most men his
> age."
> Peng Shuilin
> has opened his
> own bargain supermarket,
> called the
> Half Man-Half Price Store.
>
> The inspirational
> 37-year-old has become a businessman
>
> and is used as a role
> model for other amputees.
> At just 2ft 7ins tall,
> he moves around in a wheelchair giving
> lectures on recovery from
> disability.
> His attitude
> is amazing, he doesn't
> complain.
> "He had good care, but
> his secret is cheerfulness. Nothing ever
> gets
> him down."
>
>
>
> You have a whole body.
> You have feet.
> Now you have met a man
> who has no feet.
> His life is a feat
> of endurance, a triumph of the human spirit
> in
> overcoming extreme
> adversity.
> Next time you want complain about something trivial don't.
> Remember Peng Shulin instead.

Happy Easter!

2010-04-04T01:22:00.000-07:00

I wish you all a very Happy Easter! I hope, you find a lot of candys! :o)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

2010-03-13T01:35:00.000-08:00

This week celebrated 2 peoples of my family theres birthdays! On 8th March Jérôme and on 10th March Alex. Jérôme is now 14 years old and is growing up to a young man.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY Jérôme and Alex! I wish you both all the best!! :o)

Happy Birthday Frank

2010-02-08T07:43:00.000-08:00

Today is my brother's Birthday! (He is the guy with the red t-shirt on the picture.)

Happy Birthday Frank! I wish you a wonderful day with many surprises! :o)

Hugs!
Yvonne

My family on one pic

2010-01-17T10:34:00.000-08:00

This poster we make as Birthdaygift for my father. It was a idea of Lea, the wife from my brother Alex.

Great Party

2010-01-16T06:29:00.000-08:00

My Dad had yesterday a great Birthdayparty! He got many gifts and the kids plays absolutly wonderful of the instruments. And we had very good food of the restaurant. Here some pics of yesterday evening. Hope you like it! :o)

Happy Birthday!

2010-01-15T00:51:00.000-08:00

My Dad celebrate today his 70. Birthday! :o)
Papa I wish you all the best! With many surprises today!
Hugs!!

Specifically for Women....

2010-01-09T01:34:00.000-08:00

I got this as a e-mail from a friend. Please read it! Is so funny! :o)

OK ladies this ones for you. Enjoy.....

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

One day my housework-challenged husband decided to wash his Sweatshirt. Seconds after he stepped into the laundry room, he shouted to me, 'What setting do I use on the washing machine?'

'It depends,' I replied. 'What does it say on your shirt?'

He yelled back, 'OHIO STATE!'

And they say blondes are dumb...

-----------------------------------------------------------

A couple is lying in bed. The man says,

'I am going to make you the happiest woman in the world.'

The woman replies, 'I'll miss you...'

-------------------------------------------------------

'It's just too hot to wear clothes today,'
Jack says as he stepped out of the shower, 'honey, what do you think the neighbors would think if I mowed the lawn like this?'

'Probably that I married you for your money,' she replied.

-------------------------------------------

Q: What do you call an intelligent, good looking, sensitive man?

A: A rumor

-------------------------------------------

A man and his wife, now in their 60's, were celebrating their 40th wedding anniversary. On their special day a good fairy came to them and said that because they had been so good that each one of them could have one wish.

The wife wished for a trip around the world with her husband.

Whoosh! Immediately she had airline/cruise tickets in her hands.

The man wished for a female companion 30 years younger.....

Whoosh..immediately he turned 90!!!

Gotta love that fairy!

-----------------------------------------------------------

Dear Lord,

I pray for Wisdom to understand my man; Love to forgive him; and Patience for his moods. Because, Lord, if I pray for Strength, I'll beat him to death.

AMEN

-----------------------------------------------------
-

Q: Why do little boys whine?

A: They are practicing to be men.

--------------------------------------------------

Q: What do you call a handcuffed man?

A: Trustworthy.

---------------------------------------------

Q: What does it mean when a man is in your bed gasping for breath and calling your name?

A: You did not hold the pillow down long enough.

------------------------------------------

Q: Why do men whistle when they are sitting on the toilet?

A: It helps them remember which end to wipe.

-------------------------------------------

Q: How do you keep your husband from reading your e-mail?

A: Rename the email folder 'Instruction Manuals'

For all.....

2010-01-02T14:17:00.000-08:00

Hugh Laurie-Fans who this blog read it. :o) Here some pics of him. I have found these pics on the net. Enjoy it! :o)

Sexy or? ;o)

Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T14:10:00.000-08:00

I wish you all a good start in the 2010! Hope all your dreams coming true!
Best wishes!

A Christmas Wish

2009-12-25T08:42:00.000-08:00

A time of year
To think of love and sharing
A time of peace
For the whole world to cherish
A time to be with all your friends and family
And wish them all
A Merry Christmas

Making angels in the snow
or sliding down a hill
roasting chestnuts on the fire
takes away the chill
Candy canes and mistle toe
and grand-ma’s home made pie
Ginger bread and hot co-co
You know it’s Christmas time

Seasons come and seasons pass
but we still remember
the joy we shared on Christmas last
looking forward to next December
Flowers bloom, then pumpkins grow,
then suddenly it starts to snow.
Then our hearts are young again
You know it’s Christmas time.

On Christmas eve
Santa will soon be coming
with lots of toys
for girls and boys to play with.
To see their eyes sparkle like stars above
is all we need for a Merry Christmas....
So live your life with kindness and love in your heart
and you’ll always have a merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas to everyone! :o)

Happy Birthday Capri!

2009-11-09T04:13:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Capri! Our dog is today 6 years old! :o)

The Story of Helloween

2009-10-31T09:20:00.000-07:00

Halloween is one of the oldest holidays with origins going back thousands of years. The holiday we know as Halloween has had many influences from many cultures over the centuries. From the Roman's Pomona Day, to the Celtic festival of Samhain, to the Christian holidays of All Saints and All Souls Days.

Hundreds of years ago in what is now Great Britain and Northern France, lived the Celts. The Celts worshipped nature and had many gods, with the sun god as their favorite. It was "he" who commanded their work and their rest times, and who made the earth beautiful and the crops grow.

The Celts celebrated their New Year on November 1st. It was celebrated every year with a festival and marked the end of the "season of the sun" and the beginning of "the season of darkness and cold."

On October 31st after the crops were all harvested and stored for the long winter the cooking fires in the homes would be extinguished. The Druids, the Celtic priests, would meet in the hilltop in the dark oak forest (oak trees were considered sacred). The Druids would light new fires and offer sacrifices of crops and animals. As they danced around the the fires, the season of the sun passed and the season of darkness would begin.

When the morning arrived the Druids would give an ember from their fires to each family who would then take them home to start new cooking fires. These fires would keep the homes warm and free from evil spirits.

The November 1st festival was called Samhain (pronounced "sow-en"). The festival would last for 3 days. Many people would parade in costumes made from the skins and heads of their animals. This festival would become the first Halloween.

During the first century the Romans invaded Britain. They brought with them many of their festivals and customs. One of these was the festival know as Pomona Day, named for their goddess of fruits and gardens. It was also celebrated around the 1st of November. After hundreds of years of Roman rule the customs of the Celtic's Samhain festival and the Roman Pomona Day mixed becoming 1 major fall holiday.

The next influence came with the spread of the new Christian religion throughout Europe and Britain. In the year 835 AD the Roman Catholic Church would make November 1st a church holiday to honor all the saints. This day was called All Saint's Day, or Hallowmas, or All Hallows. Years later the Church would make November 2nd a holy day. It was called All Souls Day and was to honor the dead. It was celebrated with big bonfires, parades, and people dressing up as saints, angels and devils.

But the spread of Christianity did not make people forget their early customs. On the eve of All Hallows, Oct. 31, people continued to celebrate the festivals of Samhain and Pomona Day. Over the years the customs from all these holidays mixed. October 31st became known as All Hallow Even, eventually All Hallow's Eve, Hallowe'en, and then - Halloween.

The Halloween we celebrate today includes all of these influences, Pomona Day's apples, nuts, and harvest, the Festival of Samhain's black cats, magic, evil spirits and death, and the ghosts, skeletons and skulls from All Saint's Day and All Soul's Day.

I wish all a Happy Halloween! :o)

Happy Birthday Mama!

2009-10-12T05:36:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Mama! I wish you all the best and I hope, that you have a great day with many surprises and a great birthdaycake! :o)

Capri's new haircut

2009-09-27T01:35:00.000-07:00

Capri months ago.

Capri now.

2 weeks ago my parents brought Cabri to a dog-haircutter.The veterinary says to my parets from time to time a little sheds cuts would be not bad. Since Capri has a special skin. And my parets found so a dog-haircutter. And it was not the first time, that Capri was there. But for two weeks ago have this women not making a good job. My parents was in shock, as they Capri pick up there again. The hair now is too short. Ok,the hair will growing again. But that needs time.

Estelle

2009-09-21T09:43:00.001-07:00

Here can see you again few pics of Estelle. The youngest child of my brother Frank. Estelle is now 5 years old and a typical girl. (You can that see of the pix of her. She looks like how a little topmodel. :o) ) The photos I took of her on 1th August of this year. It was the birthdayparty of her brother Claude. Hope you like the pix.

Other pic of Rosa

2009-07-30T22:45:00.000-07:00

Here comes a other pic of Rosa. I got it as a Postcard. Lea have a printer for her digitalcamera. Have a nice day! :o)

Band from TV

2009-07-24T10:06:00.000-07:00

This is a video from the "Band from TV". I know, is not the best quality. Sorry! But I like this song. Band from TV are: Greg Grunberg (Drums), James Denton (Guitar), Jesse Spencer (Violin), Bob Guiney (Vocals), Teri Hatcher (Vocals), Adrian Pasdar (Guitar) and Hugh Laurie (Keyboards).

The story of the Band is this. What started out as a love for music and simply having fun jamming with buddies has led Greg Grunberg and his friends to an unusual place: packed venues playing rock and roll for charitable causes!

The Band From TV lineup includes a powerhouse of well-known and acclaimed actors including: Greg Grunberg (drums), a veteran of shows such as Alias and Felicity and currently starring in the NBC hit HEROES; Teri Hatcher (vocals) currently starring in the ABC hit DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES, James Denton (guitar), currently starring in the ABC hit DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES; Bob Guiney (vocals), who appeared on THE BACHELOR and is currently seen on TLC's DATE MY HOUSE; Jesse Spencer (violin) currently starring in the FOX hit HOUSE; and rounding out the band are accomplished musicians Chris Kelley, Barry Sarna, Jon Sarna, Chris Mostert and child-star turned bass player Brad Savage.

A few years back, Grunberg was asked to play a gig at the House of Blues with a couple of celebrities. With the overwhelming interest this performance generated, he decided to form a celebrity band that could also serve as a platform for another passion - raising money for charitable causes. After a guest stint on House, he met Laurie. And, following that he performed at another charity event where he jammed with James Denton and Bob Guiney. Soon after, Bonnie Somerville joined the group and "Band From TV" was formed. All the celebrities have a charity they support. "Band From TV" is all about giving, with the majority of the money raised from gigs and the band's upcoming DVD being donated back to help the charities in their endeavors.

"My oldest son has epilepsy and I saw this band as a wonderful vehicle to help raise money for the National Epilepsy Foundation," comments Grunberg. "Having band mates who also happen to be in some of the most popular shows on television creates an amazing opportunity to really reach out to our fans to help support these wonderful causes," adds Grunberg. Teri Hatcher supports the Starlight Starbright Children's Foundation, James Denton works with The Conservation Fund, Bob Guiney supports The Art of Elysium. Bonnie Somerville supports the Child Abuse Prevention Program and the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Jesse Spencer supports The Indiana University-Kenya Partnership. Support for additional charitable organizations are in the works.

While talented actors, the band is truly about celebrating music, living the rock and roll fantasy and having fun while bringing classic rock and roll music to life.

Hope, you like the video. :o)

Good Luck!

2009-07-02T00:49:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is the day. My parents moves finally to Diepflingen in they new flat. (You can see of the picture the flag of Diepflingen.)It is sad, but I understand the reason, while my parents change they living place now.
I wish my Mum and Dad good luck for this way. I hope, they have a good start in the new flat.
Wish you all the best!!

New pic of Rosa

2009-06-26T00:39:00.000-07:00

Here can you see a new pic of Rosa. The youngest from our family now. You can see on the pic the grandmother Madeleine, sister Lina and brother Arno of Rosa.

Welcome Rosa Louise

2009-06-12T03:54:00.000-07:00

The dougther of my brother Alex is born. On Wednesday 10th June 2009. Rosa Louise is her name. 50cm and 3250 gramm.

The kids of my brothers.

2009-05-20T08:45:00.000-07:00

From left: Jérôme 13 years old, Cédric 11 years old, Claude 9 years old, Lina 5 years old and the youngest for the moment Arno 3 years old.

Last Saturday was my birthdayparty!(Pictures and more comming soon.) I am now 30 years old. Wow the time is running the last 10 years.
Last Saturday making the wife of my brother Alex this picture. On this pic you see 5 of 6 Kids of my brothers. I find this pic great. You can see why or? ;o)Hope, you like it!

So cute!

2009-05-11T06:14:00.000-07:00

So sweet! :o)

Finally again!

2009-05-03T10:30:00.000-07:00

Finally can you see here a new post from me. The last post is 2 months ago. I shame me, that I have so long not posting here.
I want here post again in the future! I promise! I am busy in the moment, but I will to try it. Here I post now 2 new pix of Capri. I make the pix of him today. I hope, you like it.

Art of Paper

2009-03-03T01:26:00.000-08:00

Here see you few crazy pics. :o)

Winterland

2009-02-15T01:42:00.000-08:00

Today morning I woke up by my parents and have see thats falls snow again in the night.Than I have take my camera and have make this pictures. BTW Capri is out in the garden and is happy, that he can playing with the snow.

Happy Valentines Day!

2009-02-14T09:57:00.000-08:00

More Cool New Valentines Graphics at NewGraphicMyspace.Com

Wish you all a Happy Valentines Day! :o)

Super Mario Bros

2009-01-18T01:52:00.000-08:00

Who doesn't know from this game? As child I had a "Supernintendo". I had diffrent games for this mashine and I have love Super Mario Bros to playing. Now I found a gamepage, there can you playing Super Mario Bros too.

Instructions: Nice flash remake of the classic Super Mario Bros,
play as Mario or Luigi and take on the evil Koopa and his army.
Make your way through each level,
confronting the evil creatures and reach the flag to proceed to the next level.
But hurry up as the time is running out...

Here is the link:
http://www.playgames2.com/games/SuperMarioBros

I wish you a lot of fun! :o)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

2009-01-15T02:53:00.000-08:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD! I wish you all the Best for the future and I hope, you have a day today with many surprises!
Love Yvonne :o)

Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T06:21:00.000-08:00

A Happy New Year to all my friends! I hope you had a wonderful party last night and had a good start in 2009! Hope all your dreams come true! :o)
Hugs!
Yvonne

About Christmas

2008-12-26T00:40:00.001-08:00

Hello my friends,
I hope you all enjoyed the christmasday yesterday and I hope the Santa gaves you a lot of presents. We here in Switzerland celebrate the evening before christmasday. We waiting than of our gifts and the most of us celebrate this evening with the family and friends. :o) I am be my parents at the moment in the holidays. So I celebrate this evening with my parents. :o) And today we go to my brother Alex and celebrate there. With my brother Frank and his family we celebrate it later. Frank must working in the hospital about these days. I post here a pic, that we make few days ago by my brother Frank.
Have a nice day! :o)

Merry Christmas

2008-12-24T09:46:00.000-08:00

I wish you all a Merry Christmas! :o)

MySpace Comments

New Pics of Arno

2008-12-23T01:05:00.000-08:00

In the night from 20th December to 21th December was Arno by my parents. Than I had few moments and I could make a few pictures of him. Arno enjoed the time here without his sister Lina. Lina was by her other godmother Martina and sleep there.

Catch the moment

2008-11-13T03:54:00.000-08:00

I've got today a funny e-mail. :o) And I want here share some pics of them. Enjoy it!

Happy Birtday Capri!

2008-11-09T02:01:00.000-08:00

Today is Capri 5 years old. Happy Birthday Capri! On the pic can you him see, with my mum. :o)

Happy Birthday Grandpa and Judith!

2008-10-26T10:18:00.000-07:00

My parents.

Lionel 8 months old.

My cousin Simon with his little family.

My cousine Nadja with her boyfriend Phil.

My uncle and my aunt.

Today we have to persons in our family, that have a big day. First my Grandpa Arthur. He celebrate his 91 Birthday today. We have him visit yesterday, while we had a other one Birthdayparty. My Grandpa had a big pleasure about our visit. :o) He want dont make a photo. Thats the reason, while I no a photo post of him here.

The second person is my aunt Judith. She celebrate her 60 Birthday today and she makes a party with good food. and here I have some pics, that I want post here. :o)

Mother Cat and the Rebit

2008-10-09T12:02:00.000-07:00

Finally comes a post here again. This video I got it via e-mail. Thats so sweet. Enjoy it! :o)

Cat Tabledance

2008-08-28T09:59:00.000-07:00

It's sweet! :o) Enjoy it with sound.

Peacock in the garden

2008-08-25T03:39:00.000-07:00

I see, the time is running. I have over a month not posting here. That's going not so. Now I can give you a lovely post now thanks my father. He mail me the 4 following pics of the Peacocks. :o) The Peacocks was in the garden of my parents on a wonderful Sunday. I don't know, how it comming in the garden, but is really funny. My mum had first a little shock. But later she must smile about this story. :o)

Few new pics of Capri

2008-07-22T09:54:00.000-07:00

My father taken his camera and make few new pics of Capri. Few pics I want post here. You can see Capri on his favorite place in our garden and you can see him on a walk. I hope, you like pics.

BTW Lea have today her Birthday. She is now in Belgium with my brother and the kids until Saturday. I have her gave a call today. HAPPY BIRTHDAY LEA! Hope your enjoy the day with your family. Best wishes!! :o)

Summertime... Traveltime

2008-07-16T11:48:00.000-07:00

Many peoples goes in the Summerholidays in diffrent countries. And have a great time there. For me is a big pleasure, if I got postcards from my family and friends. :o) I got this week two postcards from my brothers Alex and Frank and the families. Here can you see the cards:

This is the card from Alex. This is a special card. Here can you see Alex and the Kids on a beach in Belgium. The weather is cold and bad.

And this is a Postcard of Rab in Croatia. There was Frank with his family the first two weeks of the schoolsummerholidays. They had beautiful weather.
Who know's maybe I got more postcards and than I can post here. :o)

My computer is back

2008-07-12T01:42:00.000-07:00

I am back! Since last wednesday I have my computer back. It had problems with a download from a update.
Arno the son of my brother Alex celebrate his second birthday, two days ago, in Belgium. There makes he and his family holidays at the moment. I have call to my brother. He said thats the weather is really bad at the moment there. But he have a good house. It's really big and the Kids are happy about that. And my other brother Frank is in the holidays with his family too. He is in Croatia. And the weather there is beautiful.
That was a little update for now. Have a nice day!

DHL

2008-06-29T01:14:00.000-07:00

I don't know, maybe you know from this video. I have found this on my notebook and I have thinking, I want this post here. :o) I have found this video on my notebook by my parents. Hope you like it.

Today come visit to us Alex with his family. He goes next Saturday with the family in the holidays. Frank drives with his family on last Friday evening to the holidays. He needs for this trip very long time. He needs this one 20 hours. Thats long with four children in the car.
Ok I hope, you enjoy this video. Have a nice day! :o)

Computer dosn't working

2008-06-24T03:58:00.000-07:00

Hello everybody!

I know, I have not post here for a long time. I hope this situation change soon. And my computer dosn't working at the moment. He must go to a "Doctor". :o(
We see us here soon again! :o) Have a nice day!
Hugs!

And already again vegetables

2008-05-19T02:03:00.001-07:00

These pictures me someone mailing. You know, I are fan of such photos gladly here and from there would like I it posts. Hope you like it.

I was this weekend by my parents. We have celebrate my birthday. Was a very funny weekend. I like that! :o)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LINA!

2008-05-08T00:15:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LINA! I wish you all the best and I hope, you have a wonderful day! :o)

Garfield

2008-05-05T04:00:00.001-07:00

For all Garfield-Fans here: I have found a Poem about this cat. :o) Enjoy it!

Garfield
I am an orange cat;
My given name is Garfield.
I am super-lazy and fat;
I am always cranky.
Abusing my owner is what I do;
He slaves after me day and night.
I destroy his social life (big whoop);
When I'm discovered, I'm out of sight.
As my poor owner cries, "Boo-hoo,"
I point and snicker with delight.
I also torture his pet dog, too.
Stupid Odie is in constant blight.
So dumb; caught the August flu.
Don't you see, he's not too bright?
I'm so fat I can't see my feet;
I eat tons of lasagna.
I take 3-hour naps in great big heaps;
I lift an eyelid only in need.
All to my life is eat and sleep.
All I do is sleep and eat.
-- By Freak of Fiction--

Estelle and Jérôme

2008-05-03T10:24:00.000-07:00

Here coming a new pic from Estelle with his big brother Jérôme. I made it yesterday. :o)

USB and Wine

2008-04-24T06:35:00.000-07:00

Thats is really funny. Maybe we have this in few 1000 years. Who know's. Enjoy it! :o)

It's Spring

2008-04-16T00:58:00.000-07:00

Here comes a little lyric about spring. The spring takes time also here unfortunately. It's not here. Maybe helps now my post that spring comes finally. (It's a dream, I know. :o))

It's Spring

Winnifred J. Mott

Good-bye, snow! Good-bye, ice!
Though of course you're very nice,
I am glad you've gone away
Leaving us this fine spring day.

Here's my good old bat and ball!
Marbles, too! How are you all?
I am sure that I can play
With you now, 'most any day.

Good-bye, winter! Though it's true
I've had lots of fun with you,
Now I just could shout and sing;
I'm so glad because it's spring!

You are tired?

2008-04-12T15:09:00.000-07:00

I think thats a good question for the polar bear in this video! :o) Enjoy it!

Wow!

2008-04-11T06:16:00.000-07:00

I have though I post that here. I have see a docomentary with crazy houses for a time ago. I hope, you like the video.

Have a nice weekend! :o)

FRUIT & VEGETABLE ART

2008-04-02T23:25:00.000-07:00

Fantastic works again with fruits and vegetable. Some pics are a little bit strange. But I want share this work with you. Have a nice day! :o)

Penguins take flight

2008-04-02T04:02:00.000-07:00

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/main.jhtml?xml=/news/2008/04/01/npenguin101.xml

Click on this link and have fun. :o) You can read the strory and after show the video. I like it.

Easter in Switzerland

2008-03-24T02:54:00.001-07:00

Like in America and European countries, Easter celebration in Switzerland is marked by a growing commercialization with religious aspects of the festival taking a backseat. In the days leading up to Easter, chocolate bunnies, coloured eggs and special Easter cakes (Osterfladen) appear in shop windows and the Easter Sunday often starts off with an Easter-egg hunt. Nevertheless Easter is celebrated with regional flavor in different parts of the country. On the last Thursday of Lent, a Biblical Passion Play performance, complete with Roman soldiers and horseback trumpeters, is staged in Mendrisio in the southern Italian-speaking region of Ticino. On Good Friday devotees take out a somber procession during which two sculptures, one of the dead Christ and one of his mother Mary, are carried through the streets. On Easter Monday, known as "Zwanzgerle", an egg cracking game is played where children challenge adults to break their decorated eggs with a twenty cent coin. If the adult fails to do so, the child keeps the coin, but if the adult is successful, they get their coin back and the egg as well. Although this game results in a windfall for the children, occasionally the adults too manage to turn the tables on the kids. In Romont in western Switzerland, 'weeping women' carry scarlet cushions through the streets bearing the symbols of Christ's passion - such as the nails used in the crucifixion and the crown of thorns that was placed on his head - and the handkerchief which St Veronica used to wipe Christ's brow as he carried the cross and which was miraculously imprinted with the image of his face.

Happy Easter

2008-03-21T16:04:00.000-07:00

I wish all of you a Happy Easter and hope, that you find many egg's and alot of choccolate bunnies! :o)

An unbelievable friendship

2008-03-10T04:39:00.000-07:00

The photographer meant, he never sees its huskies again. But the polar bear came night for night over with the dogs to play.

Magic in the supermarket

2008-02-26T03:55:00.000-08:00

That strange, but really good! :o) I have that got via e-mail and I have thinking this video I want to share here. Hope, you like it and enjoy it.

Valentine Day!

2008-02-14T04:00:00.000-08:00

Valentine's for lovers and for friends.
All my love goes out to you this day!
Love is something different from desire:
Even, silent, peaceful as the sky.
Nor is love interested in means or ends.
There are no selfish needs that it must weigh.
Instead, love's plenitude itself inspires,
Needing neither cause nor reason why.
Each day my thoughts enchanted with you lie.

Yesterday

2008-02-11T05:42:00.000-08:00

Yesterday my parents and I got a little visit from my brother Alex and his family. They coming Saturday back from the Skiholidays in Elm. Lina had there to go to a Skischool, but she was sick and Lina can't go there the whole week.
Now I have a few new photo's for you. Enjoy it! :o)

Carneval in Reinach

2008-02-02T01:04:00.000-08:00

http://thumb5.webshots.net/t/38/39/0/26/12/278102612xNBXQg_th.jpg

http://thumb5.webshots.net/t/24/25/0/19/3/278101903nYSbEK_th.jpg

http://thumb5.webshots.net/t/32/32/0/32/5/278103205kuiLsp_th.jpg

http://thumb5.webshots.net/t/24/24/0/13/92/278101392bZJtRv_th.jpg

It is carneval in Reinach! Here the carneval began last Thursday. This weekend is the matter in Reinach so much. There are some meetings approximately around carneval. Many concerts and removals. Thus such a correct party weekend. Unfortunately is not the weather momentarily so well here, but I hope, it will still change.
Have all a good weekend! :o)

TODAY'S INSPIRATION

2008-01-17T02:35:00.000-08:00

HOW TO STAY YOUNG ?....

1. Throw out non-essential numbers. This includes age, weight, and height. Let the doctors worry about them. That is why they get paid.

2. Keep only cheerful friends. The grouches pull you down. (Keep this in mind if you are one of those grouches!)

3. Keep learning: Learn more about the computer, crafts, gardening, whatever. Never let the brain get idle. "An idle mind is the devil's workshop." And the devil's name is Alzheimer's!

4. Enjoy the simple things

5. Laugh often, long and loud. Laugh until you gasp for breath. And if you have a friend who makes you laugh, spend lots and lots of time with her/him !

6. The tears happen: Endure, grieve, and move on. The only person who is with us our entire life, is our self. LIVE while you are alive.

7. Surround yourself with what you love: Whether it's family, pets, keepsakes, music, plants, hobbies, whatever. Your home is your refuge.

8. Cherish your health: If it is good, preserve it.If it is unstable, improve it. If it is beyond what you can improve, get help.

9. Don't take guilt trips. Take a trip to the mall, even to a foreign country, but NOT to where the guilt is.

10. Tell the people you love, that you love them - at every opportunity.

Few animal pics

2008-01-14T01:15:00.000-08:00

I hope, this pics bring a little smile on your face maybe? :o)

A wonderful weekend!

2008-01-11T06:54:00.000-08:00

Top Graphics Daily Updates
Codes Images

A wonderful weekend! Enjoy this few days! :o)

Weddingdance

2008-01-10T03:44:00.000-08:00

The best from this situation makes. So could sounds the title to this video.

http://www.myvideo.de/watch/2802343

Have fun! :o)

Lina

2008-01-05T03:46:00.000-08:00

Finally I got 2 pics of Lina. At the moment it is really difficult to make pics of her. She don't like cameras. But yesterday she let me make 2 pics. Arno and Lina was visit my parents. And that love the kids.

Arno

2008-01-02T01:17:00.000-08:00

I want beginning here 2008 with a few new pics of Arno. I had want to make a new pic of Arno's sister Lina too, but she don't like cameras at the moment. I hope, you like the pics. :o)

Happy New Year!

2007-12-31T02:02:00.000-08:00

MySpace Comments

I wish you all a Happy New Year!! :o) With much happiness and much of love.
Yours Yvonne

History of Chocolate

2007-12-30T07:40:00.000-08:00

We all love chocolate. I love that too and I was wondering, how the history of chocolate is. So I have search in the internet and I have found this article. Is very intresting. :o)

600 Culture and Cocoa

A.D. 600 the Mayas undertook a massive migration which led this highly civilised people from Central America deep into the northern regions of South America. In Yucatan they established the earliest known cocoa plantations. There is no doubt, however, that the Mayas must have been familiar with cocoa several centuries earlier.

1000 Beans and Figures

From the very early days of cocoa the peoples of Central America used beans as a form of payment. The use of cocoa beans as units of calculation must also have become established before A.D. 1000. One Zontli equalled 400 cocoa beans, while 8000 beans equalled one Xiquipilli. In Mexican picture scripts a basket with 8000 beans represents the figure 8000.

1200 Chocolate War

By subjugating the Chimimeken and the Mayas, the Aztecs strengthened their supremacy in Mexico. Records dating from this period include details of deliveries of cocoa which were imposed as tributes on conquered tribes.

1502 Columbus and the Cocoa bean

On his fourth voyage to America, Columbus landed on 30th July 1502 in Nicaragua and was the first European to discover cocoa beans. These were used by the natives as currency and also in the preparation of a delightful drink. But Columbus, who was still searching for the sea route to India, was not interested in cocoa.

1513 Payment in Beans

Hernando de Oviedo y Valdez, who went to America in 1513 as a member of Pedrarias Avila's expedition, reports that he bought a slave for 100 cocoa beans.

1519 A Spanish Bank

Hernando Cortez, who conquered part of Mexico in 1519, finds the taste of cocoa not particularly pleasant and is, therefore, much more interested in the value of cocoa as a means of payment. He immediately establishes in the name of Spain a cocoa plantation where, henceforth, 'money' will be cultivated.

1528 Sweet Plunder

In 1528, Cortez brings back to Europe the first cocoa and the utensils necessary for its preparation.

1609 The First Chocology

'Libro en el cual se trata del chocolate' is the title of a book which appeared in Mexico in 1609. It is the first book devoted entirely to the subject of chocolate.

1615 Fruitful Marriage

The Spanish princess Anna of Austria marries Louis XIII and introduces, amongst other Spanish customs, the drinking of chocolate at the French court.

1657 A Frenchman in London

London's first chocolate shop is opened by a Frenchman in 1657.

1662 A Solomon of Chocolate

After Pope Pius V had found cocoa so unpleasant that he declared, in 1569, that "this drink does not break the fast", the supreme church of Rome became more and more tolerant towards the exquisite beverage. The question of the fast took on a new urgency. In 1662, Cardinal Brancaccio hands down the judgment of Solomon:"Liquidum non fragit jejunum." In other words:"Liquids (in the form of chocolate) do not break the fast." Clearly, one had to wait until Easter to indulge in the eating of chocolate. 1670 The Fate of a Seaman Helmsman Pedro Bravo do los Camerinos decides that he has had enough of Christian voyages of exploration and settles in the Philippines, where he spends the rest of his life planting cocoa, thus laying the foundations for one of the great plantations of that time.

1671 Blissful Accident

A clumsy kitchen-boy drops a bowlful of almonds on the floor. The angry chef tries to box his ears and, in the process, spills a panful of hot, burnt sugar over the almonds. The Duke of Plesslis-Praslin, a marshal who is renowned as a gourmet, is waiting for his dessert. "What now?" thinks his personal chef and, in desperation, serves the marshal with the almonds covered with a coating of cooled sugar. The guest is delighted with the novel dessert and promptly gives his name to the new sweet. Not, however, the full name, but simply "Praslin". Since then this sweet has undergone many changes, including the development of the modern term "praline" from the original name.

1674 Roll Call

"At the Coffee Mill and Tobacco Roll" was the name of a famous London coffee-house where, as early as 1674, one could enjoy chocolate in cakes and rolls "in the Spanish style".

1677 A Royal Decree

On the strength of a royal decree dated 1st November 1677, Brazil - later to achieve an important position in the world market - establishes in the State of Para' the first cocoa plantations.

1697 Premier in Zurich

Heinrich Escher, the mayor of Zurich, visits Brussels where he drinks chocolate and returns to his home town with tidings of the new sweet drink.

1704 Chocolate Tax

Towards the end of the 17th century, chocolate makes its appearance in Germany. The policy of restricting the importation of foreign produce leads Frederick I of Prussia to impose a tax on chocolate in 1704. Anyone wishing to pay homage to its pleasures has to pay two thalers for a permit.

1711 Chocolate Migration

Emperor Charles VI transfers his court from Madrid to Vienna in 1711. With the court, chocolate moves in by via the blue Danube.

1720 Chocolateers

As early as 1720, the coffee-houses of Florence and Venice are offering chocolate whose reputation reaches far beyond the country's borders. Italian chocolateers, well versed in the art of making chocolate, are, therefore, welcome visitors in France, Germany and Switzerland.

1747 No Hawkers

In the year 1747, Frederick the Great forbids all manner of hawking, especially the hawking of chocolate.

1755 Last but not Least

America, in those days not yet the land of plenty, learns of chocolate relatively late, in fact, not until 1755.

1780 First Factory

About the year 1780, the first machine-made chocolate is produced in Barcelona.

1792 Two from the Grisons in Berlin

The Josty brothers from the Grisons made a major contribution to the reputation of Swiss chocolate in Germany. In 1792 they open a confectioner's shop and chocolate factory in Berlin. Eberty, the historian, sings the praises of their products: "Everything which one got at Josty's was excellent, and the chocolate really first rate."

1797 Cautious Goethe

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe does not have much confidence in the Swiss hotel industry. For his tour of Switzerland in 1797 he includes in his luggage chocolate and a chocolate pot.

1810 Top of the League

Venezuela's leading position in the production of cocoa is established. A survey in the year 1810 shows that this country produces half the world's requirements. One third of the world's entire cocoa production is consumed by the Spaniards.

1819 Pioneers

The first Swiss chocolate factory is set up in a former mill near Vevey. The founder, Francois-Louis Cailler, had learned the secrets of the choco- late-making trade in Italy.

1822 Ornamental Plant

The Portuguese Jose Ferreira Gomes introduces the cocoa tree as an ornamental plant on the small island of Principe in the Gulf of Guinea off the west coast of Africa.

1857 The Swiss in Africa

Under the encouragement of the Portuguese Baron of Agua Ize, the culti- vation of cocoa passes from Principe on the neighbouring island of Sao Thome, and from there to the African continent. In Ghana, the members of the Basle Mission promote it successfully. Surprisingly quickly, the many small and medium farmers develop the country into one of the most important producers.

1875 With Milk

After eight years of experiment, the Swiss Daniel Peter puts the first milk chocolate on the market in 1875.

1879 Melting Sweetness

Rodolphe Lindt of Berne produces chocolate which melts on the tongue for the first time in the year 1879.

1900 Changes in Leadership

Spain, formerly the classic land of chocolate, falls far behind. Germany takes the lead in consumption per head, followed by the United States, France and Great Britain. In just a decade or two another country will be playing first violin in the orchestra of the chocolate nations - Switzerland. The reputation of Swiss chocolate, bolstered by unbroken series of medals at international exhibitions, has not only fallen upon the ears of foreigners. It has also conquered Swiss palates. Like bratwurst, rösti and fondue, chocolate has become a national dish.

Frank's Children

2007-12-27T13:44:00.000-08:00

Estelle

Claude

Cédric

Jérôme

Today evening my parents and I visit my brother Frank and his family. It was a wonderful evening. Jérôme and Cédric plays on his instruments christmassongs for us and Claude plays with his Grandpa his favorite game "UNO". Estelle give me for show her christmasgift. :o) Here are some pics of the kid's.

Grandpa

2007-12-25T01:53:00.000-08:00

This is my Grandpa. My parents and I visit him yesterday in his new "home". He is sice a few weeks in a institution for older people. In the October celebrate my Grandpa his 90 birthday. :o)

Christmas Eve

2007-12-24T03:25:00.001-08:00

Today we have a great dinner. We have a fondue of meat. Yummy! :o) Do you know, what that is? It is a boullion soupe very hot and than we can meat cooking in this soupe. The favorite meat for this dinner is from cow or chicken. Is very delishes.
And on this afternoon we going to visit my grandpa. He is since a couple of weeks in a old peoples home. He is 90 years old and have lifes until recently time in his own house. But now it's for him a danger this house. So it's better for him life now in a old people home. I hope, I can make some pictures of him this afternoon. Than I can some post here.
I wish you all, a merry christmas! :o)

Christmas Tree Cat - A Short Story

2007-12-21T02:32:00.000-08:00

Her people had put her outside the door. She was so excited! There were so many things to see, smell and do she didn't know where to start! She was aware that there was a lot of activity around her home, with all the people coming in and out, but she had too many things to explore to take much notice. She had stood at the window many times looking out and now she was here!
She chased a few squirrels, played in the leaves and even tried climbing a tree for the first time. Just when she was beginning to think she didn't ever want to go inside again, she heard a loud growl and turned around. There was a large brown thing coming at her! She hissed and took off running with the brown thing right behind her. It was almost on top of her when she came to a tree and used her new found tree climbing skills to escape. Whew! That was close!
The big brown growler stood at the bottom of the tree for a long time, but it finally got tired and left. She stayed in the tree until she was sure it wasn't coming back and then climbed down to the ground. Just when she got to the ground, she heard another loud noise. This one was louder and coming faster than the last. It was huge and spewed smelly fumes.
It narrowly missed her as she ran across the street. She was scared and wanted to go home. Outside wasn't fun after all. There were too many bad things outside. She went to the door where her people lived but everything was quiet and still. She cried pitifully but no one came to the door to let her in.
It was getting dark and still no one came. She could see lights coming from all the other windows but there were no lights in her own home. She was hungry and cold and wanted her nice warm blanket! She hid under the stairs and shivered until morning.
For the next few weeks, each day was a frightening struggle to survive. There were some kind people who would leave food out but she was too small to fight the big cats, who took all the food. Then there were the big growlers who chased her up trees. One almost caught her and left a cut on her little paw. She hid under the stairs and licked her wound wondering why her people had left her. Had she been bad?
One day the weather turned especially cold. She decided to go to all the doors in the building and cry as loudly as she could -- no one came.
Finally, at the top of the stairs, a door opened. It was a woman who bent over to pet her. She stood on her back paws and rubbed her little head against the woman's face. The woman went inside and came back with a bowl of food and a warm blanket. She was so grateful! While she ate the food, the woman stroked her little head. When she was finished eating, she snuggled in the blanket until she was warm and went to sleep.
Everyday, for the next week, she came to the woman's door and waited for her food. Everyday the woman came outside and brought her a bowl and petted her while she ate. Finally, one day the woman picked her up and brought her inside. She was so happy. It was warm and cozy and she rubbed the woman's ankles purring. If only the woman would let her stay she would never go outside again!
She began to explore this new place. In one room she found a tree. It wasn't like the trees outside -- this one was smaller with low branches and shining things all over it. It had shining boxes all around it too. She walked around the tree sniffing. The woman wasn't in the room and she wondered if she would get in trouble if she climbed this tree. Her curiosity got the better of her and she started up the trunk. She went out on an upper branch and sat there feeling very pleased with herself.
The woman came back in the room and started calling her. Would the woman get mad at her for climbing the tree and make her leave? She got scared. Just then, one of the shiny balls fell off the branch she was on and hit the floor with a crash. The woman looked up and was face to face with her in the tree. She just sat there and purred to let the woman know she was sorry. She was so afraid of being put outside. She let out one tiny little meow and the woman, who had been staring at her with her mouth open, started to laugh! The woman reached out and took her off the limb. She snuggled in the woman's arms as the woman stroked her smooth little head.
"Merry Christmas little one!" the woman said. She blinked her big yellow eyes and purred.
by Ann Hudson

Few words

2007-12-19T02:34:00.000-08:00

St. Nikolaus

2007-12-07T02:00:00.000-08:00

We had this celebrate yesterday. :o)

As you all are aware, in Switzerland we celebrate Samichlaus on the 6th of December. It originates from the holy St. Nikolaus of Mira (nowadays in Turkey), who was a caring Bishop. He distributed all kind of goods to the poor and needy. In honor of St. Nikolaus, the Samichlaus distributes nice things to the children. He brings fruits, nuts and often a Grittibänz, a bread in the form of a man with legs slightly spread. There are many different names (and pronunciation) for this kind of bread; depending on the region it is either Grittibänz (Zurich area), Grätimaa (around Basel), Elggermaa (around Elgg in the canton of Zurich), Chlaus (coming from Nicolaus) oder petit bonhomme. In the 1930 this kind of bread was only known in the northwestern part, before it became known throughout Switzerland by the distribution of bakers and stores. Benz, or Bänz is the short form of the first name Benedikt. Gritti or Grätti is coming from the form of the legs (gegrätschte Beine, spread legs).
It is thought, that the custom of the Grittibänz is known since the 16th century, and of course it should represent St. Nikolaus.

He, he....

2007-12-05T04:38:00.000-08:00

Hallo!

You have to try this!

Enter a boyname in the first box and then your name in the
second!
Then click on "visualizer" and have an amazing look!

http://www.tatuagemdaboa.com.br/

Advent

2007-12-03T00:07:00.000-08:00

Advent Beauty

By John Piper

Tilting on her yearly track
Advent beauty circles back,
Flying faster with the years,
Hardly giving time for tears
First to dry upon the cheek—
Has it been more than a week
In the ground now winter cold?
Has there really been a spring
When the birds began to sing?
Has there been both summer,
fallSince the Baby in the stall
Called us with a Christmas bellto sing,
O Come, Immanuel?
Tilting on her yearly track
Advent beauty circles back,
Flying faster with the years—
Ah, but overtaking fears.
Let the Lord of advent lift
Every care (an early gift!);
See the Savior and the Son
Shine in advent candle one.

Today one year ago...

2007-11-29T03:58:00.001-08:00

Today one year ago was not I so well. My dog Sally had to be put to sleep. I white, many think, it is only one dog. But for me Sally was much more. It was like a friend for me. She came, if I were sad and makes me smile again. When I was sick, Sally did not leave me alone. She was always on my site.I call my mum yesterday.My mum like also the whole family think often and gladly of Sally back. Even if we now have Capri. I think with animals am it as with humans. Each animal is a special nature. Thus "Sally" remains Sally and "Capri" remains Capri. And that is also well like that.

Morning Poem

2007-11-27T02:08:00.000-08:00

I post this poem here, for all the people, who's didn't like the morning. Feel free to read it. :o)

Morning Poem

© By Danielle D. Curtis

Woke early one morning,
the earth lay cool and still,
when suddenly a tiny bird,
perched on my window sill,
it sang a song so lovely,
so carefree and so gay,
that slowly all my troubles,
began to slip away,
it sang of far off places,
of laughter and of fun,
it seemed his very song,
brought out the morning sun,
I pulled back the covers,
and crept slowly out of bed,
and gently shut the window,
and crushed his freaking head,
I'm not a morning person