7 Tips On Staying Motivated and Positive During Lockdown

Hawthorne Hotel – All You Need to Know in One Minute | Salem Spotlight

   The Hawthorne Tree:  Associated with the sacred and the unlucky.  To destroy this tree puts the person who does so at great risk.  It is symbolized as the Chalice as it too represents divine secrets and everlasting life.

Jacksonville Beach

Golden sands and deep blue ocean.  It is said to be less commerical than Daytona Beach.

Adventure Landing – Jacksonville, FL – September 2019

Beaches Museum & History Park in Jacksonville

You May Be Surprised To Learn These 10 Famous People Are From Jacksonville

Jacksonville:  The British gained possession of Florida in 1763, the name was revived by American settlers of Spanish Florida in the early 1800’s.   In 1822, under the urging of Isaiah D. Hart, a settler from south Georgia, a town site was surveyed.  Newman, Market, Liberty, Washington Streets were laid out and named crossing these Bay, Forsyth, Adams, Monroe and Duval formed a 20 block area,  Snodgrass (1969) reports John Warren, a settler who had served under Andrew Jackson as a soldier, suggested Jacksonville as the name, and this name was agreed upon without dissent..

The Hidden History of Jacksonville

Jacksonville

40 miles north of St. Augustine, Jacksonville is more a working class city, a sprawling megalopolis that may one day rival Atlanta as the industrial hub of the south.

Jacksonville, Florida “City Guide” travel destination video

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens Full Tour Part 1 – Jacksonville, Florida

8605 Zoo Road—Jacksonville (of course)

73 acre zoo and botanical park.

Plains of East Africa (17 acres)

Zoo Train–the General

Baby animal nursery, children’s zoo.

Wet land elevated board walk

Birds of prey

Kingsley Plantation – Fort George Island – Jacksonville, FL

11676 Palmetto Ave

Cotton and  other crops were cultivated in 18 and 19th c.  Preserved and interpreted by the National Park Service —Part of Timuacuan Ecological and History Preserve

MOSH Museum of Science & History , Jacksonville Florida .

1025 Museum Circle

Natural and physical science and history exhibits include an Allosaurus skeleton, marsh room with live animals, log cabin room, and science theater.  Also Alexander Brest Planetarium.

The Cummer Museum’s Historic Gardens

829 Riverside Ave

Paintings by American an European masters, sculpture, prints and tapestries.  Oriental art and early Meissen Porcelain.  Guided Tours.

History of Mayport and Jacksonville, FL

Jacksonville:  With so much known about how and why Jacksonville was named, the tantalizing fact is that so far no record has been found of the exact date in June 1822 when the city officially came into being.  Probably the events were spread over number of days.   Every city mus have a birthday, however, so Jacksonville has selected June 15, the date when the settlers petitioned Congress for recognition as a point of entry.  Jacksonville is the county seat of Duval Co.

Discover Jacksonville | Start Here | San Marco

Life on the St Johns River Florida

This river has had 5 names over the known history of it (that’s for the entire length–there have been others for shorter sections.

1.Welaka or Ylacca 

Mayaca Indian Shell Midden on The St. Johns River

(same pronunciation—whatever that is)

which was the earliest name we know—given by the native Americans who lived here many moons ago.

2,  Rio de Corrientes

Florida Travel: Take a River Boat Trip on the St. Johns River

The Spanish called it “River of Currents”  because of how it clashed with the surf at the river’s mouth.

3.  Rivere de Mai

French Landing Blue Springs

French explorer entered the St. Johns on the first of May and hence the name.

4.  San Mateo

History of Fort Caroline

Another Spanish explorer captured the French fort of Caroline and renamed both for and river

5.  San Juan 

Alligators, Manatees & Nature – St. Johns River Cruise Part 3 | Cruising m/v Y-Not

About 1590 the Spanish mission San Juan del Puerto (St. John of the harbor). was established and ultimately gave its name in shortened form, to the river.

For a time in the mid-1700’s, both San Mateo and San Juan were shown on the same Florida maps as two names for one river.

It was during the British period in Florida (20 years) 1763-1783, that San Juan finally became St. John’s and since has remained the same, except for dropping of the apostrophe.

A 48 Hour Guide to Dorset

West Dorset:  Historic roots are buried deep beyond Anglo-Saxon and Roman influences, earlier than the Iron Age settlements at Maiden Castle and Poundbury.  Walk the beaches of Charmouth and you step back to the Jarassic period, when early fossils were formed.  Historic houses welcome visitors to past glories and present splendors: Tolpuddle stands witness to the harsh treatment of the first union men: while The Cobb at Lyme Regis shares history with Edward III and the Duke of Monmouth.

Secrets of Dorset

Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour

Winter Park was first settled by David Mizell of Alachua Co. in 1836.  There is said to have been a town here called Lakeview, founded in 1858 and rechristened Osceola in 1870.  In 1882 Loring A. Chase and Oliver E. Chapman laid out a new 600 acre town site very much along the lines of New England towns, where they had come from and gave the town its present name because of its veritable park atmosphere in the Winter.  It is one of Orlando’s older, more affluent suburbs.

Morse News

Park Ave is a great place to visit for shopping, and dining and even has Tiffany Glass at The Morris Museum.  

Winter Park – Park Avenue and Central Park Walking Tour

Explore 10 of the Best King Arthur Film Locations in Britain

Brent Knoll is a Celtic “High Place” with humans living here since the Bronze Age.  There was a hill fort during the Iron Age.  Ider (Yder) son of Neth, one of the knights of Arthur came here to slay 3 giants…some think it was the site of the battle of Badon.

History at Home Live! – Tintagel Castle and King Arthur

A 48 hour guide to Cornwall – YouTube

Trewint is a hamlet in Cornwall on Bodmin Moor.  It is the site of Wesley Cottage on Duck Street–the small granite cottage was where John Wesley the founder of the Methodist Religion, which outgrew the site which fell into disuse.  The Isabells, a local couple. gave him shelter on his visits here.  In 1950 this house and two adjoining rooms were restored and open to the public.

Jamaica Inn, Cornwall

More on How Smoking Cigarettes could Cause Travel 

Last time I told you that  we were interrupted by one last thing—and that was a monumental terror—a disgrace to the race.

September 11 Attacks

Yes the US Capital was attached and much was destroyed.  I was on the phone when the second tower was hit by a plane and our conversation moved move the business category we had been discussing to the obvious attack (before it was hit by some crazy pilot—the Empire State Building was year prior to this—we were both shook and he told to stay on the line with him so we could list to the incoming reports together —  I worked out of my home—some of us started that practice much earlier than others—but back then while that was happened normal work was suspended and as the attacks continued my office shut down and sent everyone home anyway.

After that all airline travel was shut down—several friends had to rent cars and drive back t Florida as the choice of flight was no longer an option.  The world was not ever gonna be quite normal again and  we all were traumatized and shell shocked.

Shortly after this the company setting up the trip for us called and surveyed all of us asking if we still wished to go.  I told them yes and they advised they’d let us know if the trip was going to continue as planned in June of 2002.

We’ll look at more next time.

5 Ways September 11 Changed America

Highlights of Roman London

After the Roman invasion, Britons even took on Roman names.  These were easier to use in the sounds and structures of the Latin language but also showed that the Britons had adopted Roman ways and considered themselves part of the Roman World.

BATH ENGLAND Walking Tour | Full Tour of Bath UK – Roman Baths, The Abbey & Royal Crescent

This use to be in Key West—-now its the site of

Caroline’s Cafe

Homemade: DIY Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy:  Grapefruit:  vibrant, light, cheerful.  eases depression and moodiness, inspires joy, humor and cheerfulness

Aromatherapy Uses and Benefits

Getting out in the time of Plague

I know I have encouraged you to stay in and send you info with lots of virtual stuff to help—but there are ways to get out—-above is from the Mount Dora Historical Society is talking about historical sites that one can visit and I thought this was an excellent way to get out—you could drive to Mt. Dora and walk about with a historical guide or walking tour and see the sites around the town.  You could enjoy a picnic lunch or there are several restaurants with out side dining for instance:   Pisces Rising 

to name one of several.  Pisces which has a large dine out side patio area including a large outside bar set up and with nice views of the lake.

Or you can drive about:

Mount Dora: Florida. A Driving Tour of the Beautiful Downtown

But there are tours all over the county—this one is in Gillespie County in Texas:  There is a pamphlet for this Driving Trail tour:

Country Schools in Hill Country

Go to their website for lots more info:

https://www.historicschools.org/

Walking around Downtown Fredericksburg, Texas

and there’s so many more—just google the town and see what you find…..just doing that planning will keep you busy and not so crazy for awhile.

Following In Celtic Footsteps | Britain’s Ancient Tracks (Archeology Documentary) | Timeline

Celtic Oral Tradition—everything was oral until the early Christians.  It was considered improper to commit studies to writing, in fact it was religiously prohibited..  Celt was Keltoi:  The Secret People.

Winter Park Florida Ye Olde Hometown Christmas Parade 2019

Winter Park, Fl:  1891 the Henkel Block opens on Park Ave with five stores , a boarding hourse and a doctor’s office.  Fifteen street lams, fueled by oil are placed downtown.  In 1985 a clay road is built between Orlando and Winter Park  It is extended to Maitland the next year.

LONDON WALK on Sherlock Holmes’ Baker Street from Grosvenor Square incl. Madame Tussauds | England

Another way to escape the Lock down is to find something to take you mind off it all.

How abut a Classic Mystery with a detective that defines the genre—and his friend Dr. Watson—-Yes of course Sherlock Holmes and my favorite Holmes is Basil Rathbone.  I most recently it saw them in the 1944 Sherlock Holmes and the Scarlet Claw––the Movie channel has his adventures on every Sunday morning at 7 or 7:30, it varies occassionally.  Here Holmes is in Canada in a village where there has been a series of killings blamed on a monster.

If you want a good Cop show try Crossing the Line-–involving a group of International officers including Donald Sutherland as one of the stars.  The one I saw was involving human trafficking .  Oh and its on Ovation.

OK how about a bit less of the murders—-Maybe a historical bit with the Royals:

There’s the Private Life of the Windsors:

I watched Edward Advocates and Bertie take over, they’re interesting and the Smithsonian does a good job of giving you the whole story—-I you enjoy history or follow the Brit’s ruling class or just want to try something new I recommend you try this one.

Historic Royal Palaces

Can birds predict the weather?

Proverb:  If crows fly in pairs, expect fine weather; a crow flying alone  is a sign of foul weather.

Can Animals Predict an Earthquake?

Three Orthodox Monasteries of Russia

The Orthodox Influence of the Monk In Czarist Russia

Like many of you out there I’m aware of the story of the last Czar of Russian and how greatly he was influenced by the Monk Rasputin-–and how this helped to seal the end of  the monarchy in Russia.

But what I didn’t realize just how important these monks were to the Russian Crown over the years.  The Russian Orthodox Church was the national religion.  And the several of these  monks, particularly those with charisma and  miracle abilities, were very powerful–even Ivan IV (The Terrible) was open to their advise and directions.  And this was not changed even in later and more modern thinking Czars as as we are aware this was obviously a great deal to do with the fall of the last Czar and his family.

Inside the Oldest Moscow Monastery with Different Russia 2019

Underwater robot finds shipwreck with treasure worth up to $17B

A Spanish Galleon lies under the second large piling under the main span of the Sunshine Sky Way bridge, north of the shipping channel.  She is believed to be one of the 1715 fleet that entered Tampa Bay to escape a storm in the Gulf of Mexico but sank anyway.  She was carrying a full load of gold bars and coins bound for Spain.

Top 5 BIGGEST Sunken Treasures Ever Found

Balmorhea Swimming Hole: a West Texas Oasis – The Daytripper     

London:  The Big Bus is a hop-on-hop -off sight-seeing bus with live commentary.  There are three different route.  You can take one or all three for one price for 24 hrs from first using it..  This is a good way to see the highlights in a hurry.  Walking is better of course!

London: Big Bus Tour Ride Around London

30 Mins ☯ Relaxing Meditation Music to Ease Stress and Anxiety, Destress, Antistress

Just a bit from me

Things are looking up and though the process isn’t as fast as we would like—but we need patience and to continue wearing those masks, social distancing and don’t forgot to wash your hands—-stay in for a bit longer—this stuff is real and it CAN kill you—-and nobody needs that —-and it’s not a fun thing to go thru even if you do survive—so treat yourself to life and health—-you’ll be glad you did.

This is a primary reason why my blog is what it is why now—giving you fun and alternatives and  virtual places to go, where you shouldn’t find any viral infections if you stay home and distance your self and all that good stuff. while you’re partaking of them.

I hope that you all are hanging in there and keeping sane (or as sane as your character tolerates—-remember this will make us stronger—and think how happy we will be when we’re allowed out again…..that will be glorious now won’t it?!!

14 Cool Things To Do When You Are Bored

The Haunted Landscape: Fairies – A Dangerous History (at Conway Hall)

It is said that in days gone by people who wanted to see Fairies made marigold water from the blossoms and rubbed the mixture on their eyes.

Best Places That Feel Like a Fairy Tale

Key West Lodging Is Varied Enough To Fit All Key West Vacation Plans

To Stay in Key West

Key West has more than a few claims to fame like it’s the Southern Most City in the USA.  It’s residents (that were born here) are called Conchs after a sea creature that can be found off the coast.  The island is known for it’s laid back, rather (and then some) off beat living and for the number or restaurants they have per inhabitant.  They are also known for their large assortment of fine accommodations—especially B&Bs and Guest Houses.

Alexander Palm Court

715 South Street

This is an accommodations that date to the 50’s are comfortable and fun.

Private compound.  Daily maid service, Pool and jacuzzi.

Alexander’s Guest House

1118 Fleming St,

LGBTQ guesthouse  welcome ALL Friends of The LGBTQ Community.

Alexander’s Guesthouse Your Own Peace of Paradise

80 Tarot Youtube Channels For Tarot Card Readers

Tarot:  Three of Pentacles:  This teaches attainment through effort and marks achievement in the working area.  It advises us to keep the pressure on so you maintain momentum, and pay attention to detail.  It sometimes marks a period where all energies will be channeled into one project to the exclusion of everything else

Best safe places to vacation during COVID-19 pandemic …

20 min Full Body STRETCH/YOGA for STRESS & ANXIETY Relief

LONDON… A BRIEF HISTORY – YouTube

Discover The Crown filming locations in Britain

The Crown is a historical drama streaming television series about the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, created and principally written by Peter Morgan, and produced by Left Bank Pictures and Sony Pictures Television for Netflix.

The Life Of Queen Elizabeth II | Elizabeth at 80: Continuity and Change | Real Royalty

www.castlehoward.co.uk

Virtual Events from National Geographic

The National Geographic Society is a global nonprofit organization committed to exploring and protecting our planet. They fund hundreds of research and conservation projects around the world each year and inspire new generations through our education initiatives and resources.

5 Geography YouTube Channels to Make Homeschooling Come to Life

Back to the Cigarette Travel Memories

So in this episode:  Well as we started working on the trip my hubby decided he didn’t want to go and suggested that I invite my sister.  He’d still supply the bucks and we could split the $400 cash payment (I said $450 before but reviewing the paper work I’ve located (I know I never throw any paperwork away) it was $400).  My sister has also long been interested in England–in fact she went there from the college she was getting her Masters at as an exchange and studied at University of London for a term.

So we started working on that idea—-BUT it rapidly fell apart when we found that it was my husband’s membership and he would have to go—and he could take one adult (21 years of age or older) he wished to—but that it was mandatory that he be one of the 2 person going or I couldn’t go and sorrily my sis was totally out…

So we revamped and my husband known how much I wanted to go bit the bullet and agreed to accompany me and so we signed up and got the deposits paid and then went on to get our passports—-amazingly the drug stores at that time we’re the easiest and fastest place to get them done for a minor payment.  And so we thought we had everything under control—-but alas the worst event of all was to come up about 6 months before our trip with a serious threat.

Tel Aviv is one of the most vibrant cities in the world. Titled the ‘Mediterranean Capital of Cool’ by the New York Times, this is a 24 hour city with a unique pulse, combining sandy Mediterranean beaches with a world-class nightlife, a buzzing cultural scene, incredible food, UNESCO recognized architecture, and an international outlook.

Things to do in Israel | Top Attractions Travel Guide

Joseph of Arimathea and Jesus in Britain

The Chalice Well

Glastonbury

We visited Glastonbury on the trip that I drove in the UK and stayed in a bed and breakfast above a restaurant (where we got our breakfasts in the morning) from which you could see the parking area for Glastonbury Abbey—where I parked after the abbey closed—-when parking was free—had to set the car up along a roadway during the day.

We had some lovely time wandering about the town on our own and plenty of time to see the town (we also drove on to Stonehenge from here as well as visiting Salisbury coming back here for the night).    One of my favorite part of that visit of the town, with its ancient Abbey ruins (can you guess who was responsible for that) with it’s disputed claim to the burial site Of Arthur and his queen—I’m one of the doubter on that.  The Tor is fantastic as well—some claim it is the original island of Avalon (the area was once for the most part underwater.)   Oh but back to my favorite part—the Chalice Gardens and Well.

The well here is legendary for never failing (going dry) even in the middle of droughts.  It might be noted that the Blood Well (the Chalice Well)  and the White Well—also on site are actually springs and they have sources from considerably different area—the Chalice well has a considerable iron content and does appear red from this mineral  The White Well has chalk from its origins making the water look milky at time.

It’s a considerable—for Yanks at least–walk from town to the entrance on the left of Chilkwell Street,.  So I recommend you chexk the shuttle to the entrance  You Enter on a cobblestone path and thru an archway of plants—It is a place dedicated to peaceful contemplation and quiet thought and visitors are requested to respect this when they move about the garden area.

The Yew trees on the site are often seen on church grounds actually go back to pre-Christian Druids—in fact the remains of a Yew tree found on the property near the present well in 1961 was estimated to be 1,800 years old  and at least two surviving Yew Trees are found North east of the town on what is thought to have been a possible ceremonial entrance to the Tor—there are two surviving yews of ancient origins.  There are also 3 ancient thorn tress in the garden which legend has it are related to Joseph of Armathea’s visit to the area.

The water is pure and unpolluted and is tested regularly.  You can purchase containers to collect the water at the entry of the gardens.

Once you leave here you  can walk further from the entrance—-turn left on Wellhouse Lane and then right and take the Footpath to the Tor (or you can take the shuttle to the Tor rather than back downtown.  Also along the lane is the White Spring

Shepton Mallet prison tour (GHOST CAUGHT!!)

Agatha Christie tour London

Dame Agatha Mary Clarissa Christie, Lady Mallowan, DBE was an English writer known for her sixty-six detective novels and fourteen short story collections, particularly those revolving around fictional detectives Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple

Agatha Christie Crime Drama Mystery Movie – Et Nullus

www.castpaper.com

Story of Vlad The Impaler – All parts

Though Dracula is a purely fictional creation, Stoker named his infamous character after a real person who happened to have a taste for blood: Vlad III, Prince of Wallachia or — as he is better known — Vlad the Impaler.

Visiting the Dracula Castle in Transylvania, Romania

‘The end of the beginning.’ The dark winter is here and Americans see no end

Just you and me

So is life treating you any better than last time we “talked”—I’d ask if it could get worse, but I have learned not to ask that as it it too much tempting fate–and fate so enjoys trampling on our dreams, kicking our hearts and making mayhem of the plans we have so proudly assembled and worked on facilitating, discussed, dreamed of and now more recently mourned–with only a faint hope that we will sometime return to what passes for a normal life and some enjoyment of it again.

Between my part time remote job and this blog  I am able to keep active and as sane as one can expect considering everything.  I am hopeful that this blog helps my reader stay safe and escape from the four walls that bind—I started this with the intent of getting you all out away from TV, computer whatever and I have managed to go from that to attempting to keep you inside and on the computer—last I heard Covid hasn’t been found to be transmittable on the internet.  Do you think that if we return to what we once considered normal that we will be able to return to THE WAY WE WERE????.  That things that made us happy then and the plans that we made and the changes we hoped for will any longer work for us?

I know that I so hope to return to public—but will have to make adjustments from what I have now.  I will so love to breather without fogging my gasses.  But I understand that my feelings of seclusion have come to support my feelings of being safe and secure for my future.  It may take awhile for me to get use to going out more than once a week.  I know my cats will be relieved to have the house back again for extended periods, but they will miss their extra treats.

What’s your thought on all this?

Come on—let me know please

Will we ever get ‘back to normal’ after COVID-19?

Versailles after the French Revolution

French Revolution, also called Revolution of 1789, revolutionary movement that shook France between 1787 and 1799 and reached its first climax there in 1789—hence the conventional term “Revolution of 1789,” denoting the end of the ancien régime in France and serving also to distinguish that event from the later French

PARIS – FRANCE , BEST OF PARIS 4K

Visiting Ybor City

Tampa Just a quick Drive from Orlando

In 1883 Tampa was an isolated village of about 700 people on the west coast of Florida and was rampant with diseases like Yellow Fever and Malaria and was only accessible by a few minor country roads—and of course a few boats into the bay.

Tampa FL 4k Bay Tour Travel Downtown Driving

Gavino Gutierrez Ybor City who was instrumental in bringing Vincent Martinez Ybor his cigar manufacturing business from Key West to an area east of Tampa which would become Ybor City 

Ybor City is still here today but it has become a center for visitors and locals alike for dining, shopping, drinking and seeing historical areas—-it also has a museum

Top things to do in Tampa Bay | Florida travel guide

And all of this was facilitated by Henry B. Plant who put a terminus for his Florida rail road here.  Plant would go on to construct the largest tourist resort in the world at that time here in Tampa—Tampa Bay Hotel.    

That  hotel–part of which is now a museum  (see pictures at top and bottom of this piece) is now part of University of Tampa

Busch Gardens 2020 Tampa, Florida | Full Complete Walkthrough Tour

Yes that city of Tampa did have a harbor and a great climate and it would go on to be the 3rd largest city in the state and allot of that growth was due to those  men I mentioned above and wasn’t hurt by that great deep harbor.  Oh and that port would be one of the largest and deepest in the country.

The Tampa RiverWalk, Florida | Full Walking Tour

Acropolis in Athens Greece Tour 4K

The major deities in Greek or Hellenic mythology are the twelve Olympians. They are: Zeus, the chief god; Poseidon, the god of the sea; Hades, the god of the underworld; Hestia, the goddess of the hearth; Hera, Zeus’ wife and protector of (married) women; Ares, the god of war; Athena, the goddess of battle and wisdom; Apollo, the sun-god and patron of music and poetry; Aphrodite, the goddess of beauty and love; Hermes, the messenger of the gods; Artemis, the goddess of the hunt; and Hephaestus, the lame god of fire and crafts

Ancient Greece in 18 minutes

 Route 66:  Running between Chicago and Los Angeles, “over two thousand miles all the way” in the words of the popular R&B anthem, this legendary old road passes through the heart of the United States on a diagonal trip that takes in some of the country’s most archetypal roadside scenes.

Russian Revolution

Answer:

$10,000 – $15,000

On Location: Palau (Full)

A group of islands hidden amid the vastness of the West Pacific Ocean, Palau’s ancient history dates back millennia. It lies north of Indonesia and east of the Philippines.  Consisting of 340 islands, Palau is situated in a vast volcanic region. Unlike some of the lesser-known countries on this list, this country is more tourist-friendly  Chiefs running the streets and their own postal service are just two of the many things that make Paulau a fascinating place.

At the End of the Rainbow (Palau Official Tourism Video)

www.ArtisticHandGalleryandstudio.com

HOW SOUND TECHNIQUES CAN IMPROVE YOUR MENTAL HEALTH & WELL BEING

When much of the world went into lock down during the first wave of COVID-19, organisational psychologist Adam Grant told the World Vs Virus podcast that many of us would experience post-traumatic stress. But he held out hope that the experience might also help us achieve ‘post-traumatic growth’.

on the prowl facemask

The Ongoing Saga of Sutton Hoo

‘Men in Kilts’ Sets Premiere Date & Takes Viewers on a Wild Ride in First Look (VIDEO)

Best Friends Membership (and 2021 Calendar)

Old Cigarette Commercial Camel Cigarettes 1950

OK, more on travel by cigarette company.  Now as to my Hubby—he was a cigarette man and he figured if you’re going to smoke you might as well go all the way Camels being the higher levels of all the bad content.  Then Camel comes up with buck on their cartons and the smaller individual ciggie offerings and with those came a cataloge where you could buy all manner of Camel themed items from denim jackets to those canvas director type chairs.  Then as if that wasn’t enough they added travel.  The first one we took was a long weekend in Key West.

But then they went further (really further)—one of the travel oppertunities being 6 days and 5 nights in London and of course I was hooked.  I don’t remember how many bucks we had to pay, but the cash for the two of us was only $450—-NOTE:  At that time the cost for the lowest level on the plane round trip was $750 each.  So you can see besides my addiction to London and the UK– the cost made it even more attractive.

So we started counting the buck we had–not enough—but my hubby was a person that was well thought of and his friends gave him some of the buck they had—or he would buy them  a carton or so of smokes and they would give him all that they had accumilated.  And we were getting close to bucking that trip….Oh and I have never —never want to smoked—as a nurse I’ve seen too much of what happens to the chronic user I was totally put off…..but then we took another plot twist that well might end our sojourn unexectedly.

21 of the Best Free Virtual Tours of London

What Is CELTIC OTHERWORLD? CELTIC OTHERWORLD Definition & Meaning

Annwn—the Celtic outerworld, Sparkling wine is a normal beverage.  It was a land where sweet wine flows from fountains and sickness is unknown.  Treasures include a magic cauldron.

Tiny Homes Of The Ancient World: Celtic Iron Age Roundhouses

Palatka, Florida

In 1882 the town was incorrporated with the name of Apopka CIty—by 1887 it was just Apopka—the name was taken from the Lake to the south of the city.  Some historical sources say that the name was taken from the Creek Indians’s words  “aka” and “papka” meaning eating place.   No body explained to me why that was picked but anyway there are other interpertations of the word(s)

La Paz, Bolivia (City Tour and History)

 Bolivia has two capitals, La Paz and Sucre. La Paz is the administrative capital with the seat of government and Sucre is the capital as described in the Bolivian constitution. La Paz has a population of about 1.8 million people. Sucre has about 300,000.

Come to Bolivia just for this | Sucre, Bolivia Vlog

Temptations Mount Dora

Wicklow Mountain Tour

Glenro Farm, Kilcoole, Co Wicklow–Ireland:  Farmhouse Museum and exhibiion area located in a 350 year old thatched cottage allows a nostalgic look at how our ancestors lived, as well as detailed exhibits such as the craft of basket making, the story of wool yarn and more.

.

HOW WRITING A DAILY JOURNAL HELPS MENTAL, EMOTIONAL &     PHYSICAL HEALTH

and my daily efforts

HOW IMPORTANT IS LIGHT IN OUR EVERYDAY LIFE?

Wed. was a day out–wild fredom—crazy adventure—Well would you believe I did some major walking about—drank coffee somebody else made.  Then I had a DRINK—yes alcohol and coca cola  OH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  MY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!   I know it’s not good for you, but even breathing has become a source of bad things waiting in the air to ambush your body.  I also had a whole meal cooked and eaten away from the house—and did I mention I got my hair cut and colored?  WOW.

I found out how good my mask was by how hard it was ro breathe when walking about and doing more than a short walk thru a grocery store.  But over all it was a much better day than what I’m use to.  7 hours away from the TV & computer—-and that alone put me in a much better mood…and I followed all the requirements.  But I maintained my distance, used my disinfectant wipes, wore my—of course mask.  Life has become so much more of must does and much less of what I enjoy.

And I learned a few new things—for instance I found that at Wawa that gas pumps are no longer just for gas anymore—you can order food or items from their store, as well as pay at the pump and then pick up the items at the curb—since I only wanted gas it took me a few seconds to figure out how not to order food and how to convert the pump back to gas purchaes —talk about  something I had never considered needing in my skill set.

THE COUNTLESS BENEFITS OF FLOWERS AND PLANTS ON YOUR MIND, SENSES AND SOUL

Cute Puppies Doing Funny Things 2020 ❤️ #01 Cutest Dogs

Products used to de-ice walkways can cause serious irritation to your pet’s paws.  Next time you purchase a de-icer, be sure to look for a pet friendly brand.

So many cute kittens videos compilation 2018

The Uffington White Horse

Stone Age steed or fiery dragon? Exploring the mysterious Vale of the White Horse

As you wander about England you may have seen some of Englands White Horses (one in Uffington and 8 in Wiltshire)  

While the ones in Wilshire date from 1778 to 1937 the one we’re looking at today is from another time all together.

The horse which has been named the oldest (estimated to be 3,000 years old) and most intresting–It is in the northern part of the Bershire Downs 

above the village of Uffington.  There is a path:The Ridgeway that runs along th top of the Downs.  There is an ancient earthwork that is directly above the horse–The Uffington Castle Hill Fort.

At one time it was noted to be the second wonder of Britain–with Stonehenge the first.  Orgins theories have involved Hengist (Saxon Leader),  and later King Alfred.  But the image of the horse  is said to be smilar to figures on early Iron Age coins.   Fairs reportedly were held here in the Middle Ages and even in the mid 1800s.  The horse as well as all of the other horses and various other hill carvings were covered during WWI to avoid enemy pilots using them to mark locations.   Oh and if you haven’t figured it out by now the hill is of  solid chalk.

How to Visit the Uffington White Horse

   

 

 

The Legend Of Arthur | King Arthur’s Britain (Part 1 of 3) | Real Royalty

 

 

Kai was King Arthur’s foster brother who was known to be handsome but cold hearted and stubborn.  It was said that no doctor could cure the wounds from his sword.

 

 

Excalibur 1981

 

 

 

A celebration of the life of Charles Dickens

 

 

“It is night.  Calm and unmoved amist the scenes that darkness favours, the great heart of London throbs in its giant breast.  Wealth and beggary, vice and virtue, guilt and innocene, repletion and the direst hunger, all treading on each other and crowling togethr are garthered round it.”  Charles Dickens ON London

 

 

David Copperfield  TCM   2h 10m 1935

 

 

can’t forget my recommendations for viewing

 

How to Curb Loneliness While the World Is in Lockdown

 

 

So I have maintained my distance, used my disinfectant wipes, wore my mask–of course–the new reality is much more activity but not pleasure–but staying well and alive seems worth the effort.

 

OK how about something decent to watch on the tube:;  AHC has some interesting ones from time to time—recently I watched Appocalypse WWI with dealt with the fall of Tsar Nicholas and the Russian monarchy along with many other social changes in war torn Europe which eventually resulted in the end of a lot of other monarcharies but not as bloodly as the Romanovs 

 

One of the Brit shows I much enjoy is MidsummeIr Murders that are on Ovation.  The original shows are about an hour long and there are two per epsode one show continued on a second later show.  The newer shows are about an hour and a half and there’s only one for that episode.   The show is of a inspector and his assistant as they solve muders—usually more than one per show and often involved and sometimes multiple muderers as well—enjoy them much and they’re set in the small towns and back ways of England.

 

 

DEPRESSION IN LOCKDOWN

 

 

 

 

10 Productive Ways to Spend Time on the Internet

 

Echinacea:  Used for sore throats, flu, colds, infections and allergies.

 

 

The Ultimate Parents’ Lockdown Guide

 

 

 

 Georgetown Texas

Once the Native Americans who dwelled here and used the San Gabriel River, called it “land of good water” .  Anglo cotton farmers were next (1840s) and then the Swedish folllowed by drovers on the Chisholm trail until the trains came thru in the mid 1880s.

Much of this history can be seen at

Williamson Museum 

About Us

in 1910 building once a bank and includes murals, and much more of domestic, agricultural and immigrants contributions.

 

 

Williamson County Courthouse

1923  it was here that the first trial to convict a Ku Klux Klan member was held.

There is a 1926 Palace Theater and several historic store fronts that contribute to the ambiance and history of the town.

 

Near by towns of interest:

 

Round Rock (1851)

9 miles away

Named for a boulder on Brushy Creek on the Chisholm Trail

The Trail is still prsent today and there is a park there with 22 bronze sculptured figures depicting life on this famous trail in the 1880’s.

 

Palm House Museum  (blt 1870’s)

Downtown home of Sweish immigrant Andrew J. Palm

has two rooms of pioneer furnishing

 

Historic Stage Coach Inn

 

 

 

Hutto

First settler an African American slave sent to the area to tend his master’s cattle.

Named for James E. Hutto–arrived 1876.  The German and  Danish settler also took up cotton farming

 

 

Top tips for coping with difficulties with sleep during COVID-19 pandemic

Your body’s immune system often responds to a viral or bacterial infection by giving you a sore throat.  Drinkig fluids helps to keep the swollen mucous membranes moist, which helps the healing process.  Water is excellent, right out of the tap.  Or try packaged herbal teas, such as echinnecea, peppermint and chamomile.

Q&A on physical activity at home during COVID-19

 

 

 

 

 

Shaquille O’Neal’s $16 Million Mansion Tour in Orlando Florida

Marked down from $28 Million

I said last Blog that I was going to tell you about my Adventures with Camel bucks and so here is where we’ll start—–first of all you have to understand my thing about England:

First there was my dad—he was in WWII and was stationed near London prior to going in at Normandy.  He raised his oldest little girl with accounts of how the city had been bombed by the Germans and how brave the people were who lived ther, He added stores of a few of the English girls he dated (I think mom was else where then) and thing he had seen around the capital—and how they did things different and saw things different and so on—–so I’d already figured (as I was a DADDY’S GIRL) that England was wonderful—Cool and groovey weren’t invented yet—I know before your time!!

Then I found a book in my school’s libary about the Tower of London and the persons who had met their end there—-from there I started to read about Henry VIII and the unbelievalbe chain of wives he wed and discarded—Divorced, Beheaded, Died, Annulled, Beheaded and Outlived.  It opened me to all other lines of English history and architectture and literature…..OH MY

And then in the 60’s I set with my parents (like most we only had one TV then)—and watch 4 young men from Liverpool and from then on there wasn’t much of me that wasn’t devoted to England and as time went by I had added the music of SOOOOOOOO many groups of singer from all over the isle.

Come back on Friday and I will tell you how this gentleman shown below—the one without the horse –played into this whole England thingfor me  with his smokes.

Click on the blue bold words for more information as you move along through the blog please.

Wicca

Hawthorne Flowrs symbolize female mystery and fertility and among Wiccans, the plant is traditionally believed to be so magically potent that it is considered unlucky to cut it or to bring it inside except on May eve, when it is used to deck the Beltane altar.

Beltane

 save the lives of cats and dogs all-across America

“The Texan’s Texas.”

Flying Horss Antique Carousel-–Fully restored the carousel is one of eight that exist in Texas today and is the only example of a C.W. Parker carousel with Herschell-Spillman horses.  Manufactured prior to 1910, it is housed in a unique 16-sided WPA building in Fireman’s Park.  www.cityofbrenham.org/parks

History of Carousels – Merry-go-round and Amusement Rides

Things to do in Palatka, The Gem City on the St. John’s River

In Florida.

Branson-Mulholland House (c1856)

Pictured above

Click on name above for a tour of the house on You Tube

Bronson-Mulholland House
100 Madison Street
Palatka, FL 32177

Visitor’s information here

The House is fully furnished with period antiques, and the surrounding grounds have recently been restored to their historic splendor – expansive lawns and charming gardens with brick paths. The first floor of the Bronson-Mulholland House is ADA accessible via a ramp on the left side of the building. There are also wheelchair accessible public restrooms and a modern kitchen for use by caterers.

Putnam County Historical Society and Museum

Click here for information on visits

110 Madison Street

next to th Mulholland House

The oldest extant dwelling from Palatka.  Originally part of Ft. Shannon during the Indian Wars.

The Ravine State Gardens (c 1933)

To get visiting times and other specific information click here

1600 Twigg Street

Ravine Gardens State Park is a 59-acre Florida State Park located in Palatka, Florida. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The park was constructed by the Works Progress Administration, with cypress buildings, rock gardens and fieldstone terraces.

St. Michaels Le Belfry

The window on the north side of St. Mike’s Church in York, next to the organ show the story of how Thomas a Becket‘s father, Gilbert the Sherriff of London, met his mother, Matildia.  Gilbert had been captured by pirates but Matilda, the pirate’s daughter, fell in love with him.  He escaped and Matilda made her way to London to find him.  The other pictures show Matilda being baptised and thier marriage.

Becket Complete Peter O Toole Richard Burton

The Case Of The Restless Redhead

The Celts – BBC Series, Episode 2 – Heroes in Defeat – Full Episode

Property for the Celts was somewhere between private and communal—ownership boundaries of Communal land was ill-defined based mainly on the tribe’s ability to maintain it.

Celtic Britain – Mysterious Britain – Full Documentary

Nell Gwynne Tavern, Strand, London – ideal for scaffolding enthusiasts

(picture is mine from first time in London—which I’ll tell you more about next time.

I’ve been sharing my watch lists lately to see if I can’t make your life a little more interesting despite the fact that you’re locked in to keep yourself and your family safe from this horriable virus.

Last wek I watchef “Baby God”    on HBO  (on Demand/Special–Documentary).  This is a true story about a doctor who uses his own sperm to ineminate many of his fertility patients.  The movie is stark and a bit disturbing when one thinks about the faith many of us have in our doctor.  Dr. Clive was the doctor and an article I read (dated 2019) stated there had been confirmation that at least 50 of the children born at his clinic have been verified by testing as his.  None of this was disclosed at the clinc, whose patients were told that the donner were medical studients.  There are some of the decendents who are finding out or are looking for others and much more.  It’s not for everyone but as a former nurse it’s very interesting.

I’m still on the Agatha Christie Kick.  Poriot adventure was on PBS lately—The Halloween Party  

This is a rather grim one with a death in the apple bob bin and spirals from then.

090: Ancient Stones of Avebury (Avebury Stone Circle and Avebury Manor) (North Wessex Downs 2017)

The small town of Avebury is situated inside of the Stone Circle—

in my picture below—click on above to take a 19 min walk about the area

UCF Profiles – Goldsboro

New Mount Calvary Church:  12 Street In Goldsboro town in what is now Sanford:  Founded in 1918 by several members of First Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church.  Initially the service wre held at the home of Mr. J.W. Simmons on Avocado Ave and at the New Salem Primitive Baptist Church.  Original building constructed 1920, rebuilt 1938.  Historical building retains its original double entry towers.

Videos Goldsboro Museum

Porlock, Summerset —UK

This is a flower filled village with steep, winding streets and thatched houses many of which are medieva with sturdily built chimneys.  While other more reaction ons have imitation Tudor facades.

Donerhans Manor House Museum

15th century but restored in 1883 

Welcome to the Manor

Village Hall

Built in 1925—used for weddings and other events.

St. Dubricius Church

Welsh Saint

Oldest object in the church is a fragment of a pre-Norman Cross in the south aisle.  The 13th century tower is topped by an unusual spire of wooden shingles,

The church was largely reconstructed in the 15 c.  Windows were replaced and the roof replaced on one area.

There is an Alabaster monument of John Harrington and his wife

100 Things to do in TOKYO, JAPAN | Japan Travel Guide

The greater Tokyo metropolitan area is made up of 3 prefectures and includes the capital of Japan, Tokyo, and has an estimated population of 38.14 million people making it the most populated megacity in the world.

Japan Travel Guide – How to travel Japan

Big Ben’s History

As I’ve said before that keeping busy helps the time move on and seem shorter than it was.  I mop floors, clean out cabinets, organize desks, that sort of thing.  I find my mind stays sharper and my spirit is brighter and less weepy if i do something.  Walking around the neighborhood helps.  Talking to my neighbors in the fresh air and over the distance of lawns helps and allows me to operate without a mask for a few .  The sun helping and the bad germs gone with the wind.

And more thing to watch—and actually learn a few new things while we are at it—AHC (American Hero Channel) Has a War Time Crime series-–I’ve seen two that were interesting—-One was The SIilian Connection.  and deals with members of the Mafia who went against the axis —seems Mussolini was out to rid Italy of the old boys club so they decided to go with the Allies—it’s an intereting account of who helped where and did what.  The second was crime in Britain  and the criminals who took power as a result of activities and conditions during the blitz in London—this is also on AHC

Oh and the Smithstonian Channel has Secrets of the Third Reich—Secret Submarines was the one I just watched (again WWII) and I must say I learned more about being on a sub tham I had even considered—if you’re interested in this kinda thing I recommend it for an hour of possibly (for me it was) of new and more well rounded knowledge as we looked as the sailors of the  Third Reich as human beings and not just part of the Nazi horror that tried to take over the world.

Also there’s a new series of mysteries on Master Piece (PBS) Endevor.  A murder mystery featuring Dective Sgt. Morris who solves muders in the late 50’s in Oxford, UK.

Timeless London Walking Tour | That London Life

Visit Wales – The DON’Ts of Visiting Wales

Agrona goddess of slaughter:  Founded river Aeron.  Washer at the Ford.  Possibly the goddes of battle as well.

North Wales: Feisty and Poetic

Gut check: How the microbiome may mediate heart health

9 Ways to Do Jalapeño Poppers

York Minster is the largest medieval church in England.  It also has the largest amount of medieval glass (1/2 total remaining and the largest amount north of the Alps.

Evensong for the Feast of St Peter from York Minster 2020

Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins Historic State Park

Nestled in a small wooded area hear Homosassa, the ruins of the Yulee Sugar Mill are one of Fkiruda’s most evocative historic settings.  First presented to the Citrus County Federation of Woman’s Clubs in 1923, the six acre site was deeded to the state in 1953.

Things to do in Crystal River on a Weekend Getaway

Ogmios is a piece of pottery found at Richborough–a figure with long curly hair and sunrays radiating from it’s head and holding a whip of Sol Invictus

The Celts – BBC Series, Episode 1 – In the Beginning – Full Episode

and the Viking Center in that many conquerors held sway—-goes virtual and won’t let a virus stop them—since I’ve been on their site and get their emails I got this today and thought I’d pass it along for you Viking fans (not football—but)

With restrictions on gatherings, we are not able to host the annual JORVIK Viking Festival in February 2021, so instead, we’ve created a new event that can be accessed entirely online.

An Evening with Einar

In Viking times, a ‘Thing’ was a gathering; a place where leaders and warriors could meet and talk. In the 21st century, the term ‘Thing’ is used around the world when Viking academics come together to share knowledge. 

Learn a New Skill

That JORVIK Viking Thing, which runs form 15 to 20 February 2021, will do this and so much more, with content to appeal to Viking enthusiasts and Norse novices of all ages.

and their main site:  For the THING

Bunhill Fields Burial Ground

Bunhill Fields on Old Street in London is the site of two writers Daniel Defoe and William Blake.

Bunhill Fields with Alice Ford-Smith | Medical London

This week I watched a movie —–like 1930’s murder mystery which was fun—it was on TCM of course:  Murder on the Blackboard   a Hildegrade Withers (Edna Mae Oliver) mystery.  These are the stories of a school teacher who solves muders.  A fiesty, spinster,, school teacher, with a dry, bitting wit (I have a second The Penguin Pool recorded).  The movie I just watched is a 1930’s piece which is an uncomplicated wise cracking piece that is fun to watch.  Again folks there is no color–but since a lot of it is in a school house after everyone but Ms WIthers has left and most of the lights are out you won’t miss it so much and there are no beautiful sets or costumes—something simple in this day and age simple can be such a relief.

So what have you been doing lately—I never hear from anyon but Spam—do they still make that in a pseudo food group—supposedly a “meat”.  But I just get the useless, and aggravating ads and junk to burden my site.

I was reading the other day that some of the delay in getting vaccine for many seniors are so out of the computer systems that they can’t use—so they miss info on a scheduled event or a quick way to sign up and like that—So please check on your parents or granparents or some older couples that live in your building and help them gain access to this system so they can help themselves—-you might just save their life.

Tintagel: King Arthur’s Legendary Castle

Sir Percival (Peredur) was a Virgin Knight whose quest for the grail was the main thrust of the stories we have about him.

King Arthur documentary presented by Richard Harris    

Top 10 Monty Python’s Flying Circus Moment

Virtual Travel & Adventure Show: Africa

Jeanine Taylor Folk Art’s first show of the new year,–opens 1/23

Selworthy village

Selworthy, Sommerset is an estate village two miles north of Luscombe.  It has a fine church mostly 16th c with unusual white exterior and tithe barn (15th c).  It is said to be probably thee prettist village in Val of Porloch.  Several old cottages.  Also Selworthy Bacon with fine views.

Lockdown 2021 MTB Ride over to North Hill & Selworthy Beacon!

Is it just me or to THINGS bother you (me!) more whe we’re in lock up–I mean down?  Was out one day this week–grocery store and back home again in no time.

Watched Murder She Said on TCM another Agatha Christie and even though this one is early 60’s  itt was also B&W.  Seem to be into Agatha a lot lately—just saw the PBS show Inside the Mind of Agatha Christie  

which was quite good—seems the lady is almost as (or at least almost) as interestting as her books.  I watched another interesting  movie—another Miss Marple one but for the life of me I can’t recall the name.  These have been on TBS lately and all feature Margaret Rutherford–I am use to the lesser ladies on PBS…but Ms Rutherford is quite good at this.

Hazel Archer-Ginsberg: Mysteries of the Celtic Goddesses

The Raven is associated with the war goddesses as well as being a symbol of prophecy and omens

Celtic Mythology – An Introduction to the Tuatha Dé Danann

West Texas: Nature & Outdoor Adventure | #Texplorer

How to paint a Weeping Willow Tree – STEP by STEP

In Northern Europe, the word witch and wicked is derived from the name of the Willow (tree).  It is considered to be a tree of enchantment.

Legend of the Weeping Willow

Sarasota-–Home of a Circus King

In 1926 Ca’D’ Zan (house of John) was completed on US Highway 41 in Sarasota, Fl.    The house cost  $1.5 Million to buld and had elemens of facade of Doge’s Palace in Vinice and a tower like the Old Madison Square Garden in New York

Designed by NY architect Dwight James Baum.  Constructed of stucco & Terra cotta tiles in a variety of color in the roof.  It is a 2 1/2 story house with barrel tiles from Barcelona.  The windows are made of handmade venetian tinted glass.  Colums, dorway, balustrades, tiles and arched windows were all imported from Italy.  It has a fanciful Vennetian Renaissance style roofed court.  It has 30 bedrooms and 14 baths, a kitchen and servant quarters in the south wing.

Furnishing are from the homes of Vincent Astor and Jay Gould  

are to be found in the house (now a museum) incluing a $50,000 Acolian Organ, A Steinway grand piano and 17th century tapestris.

The house was build for John and Mable Ringling

John Ringling

John was one of six brother that opened their first circusin 1882 which grew into a huge show and eventually they were able to buy out their biggest competor the “Barnum & Bailey CIrcus and by 1929 they had bought out most if not all traveling circuses in the entire USA. Shortly after he lost his wife and his furtune and by 1932 was voted out of control of the Circus corporation.  He passed on in 1939 leaving the house and art collection to the state of Florida.

Inside History: Lake Okeechobee

Next week I’ll tell you about a trip we took to England provided by a cigarette company ——-what the tour offered and lots more…..So stay tuned please

to find my introduction to England and later the UK and the fault of me being head over heals in love with that country—–I’ve ben other places but not too many other countries as I keep insisting on going back to the the UK—and I just insist that  I go there because A.  Its a safe country to visit.  B.  We speak the same language,  kind of and finally because they don’t for the most part—hate Americans or Yanks as I’ve often been called.

Anna Russell The (First) Farewell Concert (vaimusic.com)

Rollins College, in Winter Park, Fl. played a key rule in early entertainment in Orlando.  he acclaimed Annie Russeel Theater was the hub of local enyertainment.  Named after noted stage acttress, Annie Russel, who made her permanent home on Via Tucany, in the bautiful suburb of Winter Park.  Mss Russsel, stage significant plays and conceerts beginning in 1931, which till continues today.  During Miss Russell’s tenur and two years after she retired, two troupes formed at the theater, one being known as The Anne Russel Troupe.

Campus Tour | Annie Russell Theatre

Top 10 Local Gems to Visit with 3 Days in London

The period of the Vernal Equinox is an extremely important period of the Celtic year as it represents free will and libberty in a moral context.

Ancient Celts (Kelts) — the first masters of Europe

West Palm Beach Florida Travel Tour 4K

Singer Island is located a few miles north of Palm Beach, and it offers a sweep of bautiful beeaches, ocran front hotel and condos.

TOP BEACH: The Best Beach Singer Island Florida!

Sanford Florida is located north on 17-92 —-You can take I-4 and get off going east on 46 and then left on 17-92 (or from the north–or if you’re coming from the north-take 17-92 exit east to town.

One of the nicest things about Sanford is it miles of lake front along Lake Monroe.  Down town there’s a walk along the lke and several porch swings are available for a place to rest—or maybe read or just set there and enjoy the tranquility.   Also along the lake is the Mayfair Inn —-this hotel was built  by and ended in his jailing, of a mayor of this good town and it was owned by many including a basball team, and a group of missionaries to name a few.

The Central Florida Zoo has been a popular destination since the 1930’s and 40’s, a place where people came to see the wildlife interestingly I’ve read that they started with animals resuced by the fire department—now they have  rhinos, antelopes and many more to see—there’s lots of things to do, food and drink, and its all in a lovely setting.  and between I-4 and downtown Sanford on 17-92.

There is much more to see in downtown Sanford including a museum, an information center, several restaurants including the Willow Tree, a German restaurant which along with it’s deli and other shop     takes up alot of the block it is on in downtown Sanford.

Oh and you can take the Train—-at Sanford Depota you can take the free shuttle into town. (Both Amtrack and Sunrail.)

Life goes on, and despite the promises I do not see that we as a country are greater—so many of us set stunned by the failure of managing the virus, as well as the mob—-some days seem over whelming for no reason than we feel we have lost so much control of so much of everything—but if you are like me, you cling on to a hope that we will recover and overcome and that along with our friends and family and maybe ever the goverment we will bring the country back to a positive and hopefully much better (I will settle for that and concede great to lesser minds.)

While the current situation has limited us on where we go and what we do I am trying to find and make available to you facts and  places not only in words but in informative or attractive or somewhere along those lines in a hope to keep you sharp and happy and focused on a future that will be better and allow us all to follow our dreams.

I acctually got my tree (as in Christmas) this last weekend and all the decorations down and put a way—so I feel like I’ve accomplished something this week.    It made my day go faster—which always happens when I keep busy—that the drag of the day is gone.   How about you what have you been doing?

Saint Denis Basilica Cathedral – Paris, France – July 22, 2013

St. Denys is associated with St. Denis (or Dionysius) of Paris.  He was a missionary bishop sent to Gaul by the Pope, and was beheaded at the place now called Montmatre (Martyr’s Hill) in 258 AD.  St Denis was long regarded as the patron  saint of France.

St Denis’ church, Otterham

24 Hours In a German Castle

Aroma Therapy:  Frankincense:  One of the most treasuresd and costly substances of the ancient world.  Deep and profound, evokes a sense of faith, inner strength and stability.

Why the 3 Wise Men’s frankincense and myrrh gifts are valued to this day

I mentioned Sanford before but though you might be intrested in a section of the town that once was a town itself.

Sanford contains what was once the town of Godsboro—the second oldest incorporated (Dec. 1, 1891) African-American municipality in the state of Florida,  (Eatonville was the first).  It was for Blacks who worked locally in rail yards, farms and the like.  It was approximately a 1/2 mile square with boundaries of Clark Street (east), Mulberry Street (west), 10 th street (north) and Harrison Street (south).

William Clark, was a business man who established one of the first stores in the town and it was through his efforts that the town was incorporated, he also served as the town’s first policeman as well as tax collector.  He also was a realator (Presidnt of the Sanford Real Estate Company) who contriuted to the growth  and development of the town.

The Free Will Holiness Church

814 Mulberry Ave.

1832

Founded by “Mother” Ruby Lee Wilson and congragation members initially in an old building it is said you could see the star and moon through holes in the roof.  They eventually purchased the site and built a new church.  By 1948 they had built The Good Samaritan House which provided food, shelter, and refuge for the poor, seniors and others in need.

Retracing The Roman Roads of Britain | Ancient Tracks | Timeline

The Britons wore nothing as they wielded swords, spears and shields against the armoulered Romans.  Instead they painted themselves blue with an extract of the woad plant to make themselves more frightening.

A History of Britain – Celts and Romans (800 BC – 1 AD)

Watching my recorded shows again tonight—had a drive thru Wendy’s dinner for me and roomie.  What I have listen to and read so far does not indicate transmission on food.  Boubonic plague was caused by rat’s fleas’ bites–but it could mutate to the much more serious pneumonic plague that was transmitted by the infected person’s breath.

What do you do to keep your mind from hiding somewhere deep inside you?  What do you do to keep yourself sane and if so is it safe—and which is most important to you–your life or your activities  I as of late, have encouraged you to live on line but that is not always near enough.  A Sultan never cries, but the rest of us are allowed to weep from time to time.

They’ve had pictures of Michigan on the news lately–the captial being guarded.  It was snowing and some accumulation on the ground alreay.  Me thinks its going to be a cold, long winter all over—just more of the legacy of 2020–I do not miss the snow and bitter cold.

ANCIENT PROVERBS (True Wisdom)

Birds singing in the rain indicates fair weather approaching.

This is because birds actually do sing if the weather is improving.

25 most commonly used Proverbs and their Meaning

Glastonbury, England: the town and the abbey

“Numerou lengends have grown up around Glastonbury Abbey, which is now thought to have been founded in the 6rh century.  Believed at one time to have been foundd  (by the disciples of Jesus) even earlier, it was later associated with Joseph of Arimathea, who is supposed to have brought the Holy Grail here after Christ’s crucifixon.”

Monasteries

Mark Hattstein

Glastonbury Videos and Youtube Movies

(Glastonbury, Somerset, England, UK)

Tips to Build a Strong Immune System

You can damage your immune system by smoking, vaping, excessive consumption of alcohol, poor nutrition and lack of sleep.

12 HEALTHY HABITS & TIPS | change your life + … – YouTube

Convento do Cristo – Tomar – Portugal

The Templers, came to Portugal in the 12th century when Alfonso I was king (1139-85) in an effort to assist the king in freeing his country from the Moors.  This castle was started in 1160 and a cloister in 1162.

The Templars fell from favor into disfavor in the twelfth century—beginning with the French King’s prosecution and executions, which most historians now feel was due to his need for funds and the Templars being a rich order-—Henry VIII made similar gain with the monasteries  in England a few hundered years later.  But interesting enough Portugal did not turn on the order within its borders when most countries joined the French in their denoucement of the Monk-Knights, and they remained there and in their castle until 1319 when the order was dissolved—and another order (Order of Christ) took over the site.

As time progressed the site grew as did the number of cloisters went up to a total of eight.  More major building was started in 1510 and like most sites assoiated with the Templars many Legends sprang up including that pesky Holy Grail one again.

The Druids (In Our Time) – YouTube

Legend says the Oghma Alphabet was given to humans by the god Ogna–the god of eloquance.  Letters were written in straight lines that bisected or met a central long line or stem.  Bards used it for sending coded messages.  Letters were linked with trees, people, placs and objects Druids used in magic.

Ogham Alphabet

Church of St John the Baptist, Glastonbury

St. John the Baptist church in Glastonbury 2020

The oddities of Treasurer’s House in York

York Treauer’s House:  Buried beneath the floor of the cellar was the old Roman Road

Real life ghost stories from our most haunted houses – Treasurer’s House, York

If you want to get away how about trying some TV shows—this is one I include in my regular recordings

Travels with Darley

This show’s last episode I watched was Northen England and Wales

It included Haworth and the Moors that inspired the Bronte SIsters

Castle Howard-–a beautiful home and one of the first houses to have corridors.  It is a private home with tours

Gothland Station—used as Hogworth’s train depot in the Harry Potter movies

\

360 Virtual Tour New Orleans Catholic Cemeteries

Hollywood Forever Cemetery – Famous Celebrity Grave Tour / Movie Star History & MUCH MORE

Celtic Oaths were used by the long past–and were not just a simple declaration of interest—They were generally uttered in public and in the presence of a Druid who called the gods as wintesses–it went beyond the secular domain.

Early Irish Society: The Old Religion and the Druids | Brehon Law Academy (youtube)

Take Me To Pitcairn – Full Documentary

This program was given to me at assembly meeting when I was in High School—We enjoyed a program by one of the descendents of Fletcher Christain—the leading muntineer against Captain Bligh in one of the most famous ship’s mutinies ever.

Exploring Pitcairn Islands | One of the Most Remote Places in the World

20 Things to do in Edinburgh, Scotland Travel Guide

Edinburg’s Corstorphine Hill has nature trails in the glen at the Hermitage of Braid.  In 1778 mutineers from the Scottish Seaforth Highlanders occupied the hill until they were assured that the rumours that they were going to be shipped to slave plantations was false.

The best walk in Edinburgh – join us on a walk around The Seven Hills of Edinburgh!

~ 
It is an extraordinary thing to consider that there are still literally thousands of holy wells in the British Isles. Most of these are natural springs; some open pools like St.Madron’s, while others are contained by a stone edifice, often covered. The majority, however,are in ruins, overgrown and no longer visited. Some have been desecrated by cattle or human presence. And yet, many, like St.Madron’s, still continue to be a center of pilgrimage as they were from pagan times.

by Mara Freeman

https://druidry.org/resources/sacred-waters-holy-wells

Somerset has many holy today we’ll look at three of them.

Alford 

A mineral spring about 3/4 mile from  the Alford Church.  Pilgrams and worshipers many from great distance,  came here for cures from scurvy, jaundice, “obstructions” and the King’s Evil.  The spring is on a farm named Alfred Well.  The well acording to early sources was enclosd in a locked shed.

Ansford

St. Andrew’s Well

A reverand in 1921 mention having knowledge of a holy well that was in the parrish

which was said to heal eye aliments.  It is possible that the church gave its name to the well which was probably used by the people prior to Christianity though I have no idea what the well’s name was then (even I’m not that old)—there are reports that the water there was used for  church baptisms after the pagan worship had been replaced with Christianity.  The sources I read say that the well has almost or in fact has totally vanished.

Ashill

Fog & frost, Ashill,Somerset .December 7, 2010.wmv

St.  Nipperham’s or Skiverton’s, maybe Skipperton’s and I underatand that  there’s many more names the well here has reportedly been called.  but seems like the bets are in that the well was named for St. Cyprion.   This well is known for bubbling up.  It is visited for healing the digestive system and is popular in the spring (May) for drinking and bathing.

IN April 1885 The Florida Congregational Association choose Winter Park as the site of what would be Florida’s first four-year college, based on residents’ generous pledges of funds and land.  The first term of Rollins College began that November.

Rollins College

In house again or rather STILL–too cold for a walk—what happened to the girl who was born in the cold—who grew up doing snowball flights and ice skating….I was never good at either—but at least I could blame weak ankles for the skating failures

Watching Miss Marple and working on some odds and ends that need to be done.  Like trying to figure out why the cats are yelling at me—THIS TIME!!  But what’s another day of staying in and being bored–beyond that.  My brrain shuts down almost–it works in a more sluggish way, processing slower, sometimes having to catch up with the body’s ongoing activity.  It’s almost as if it has snagged on a bit of information while the body progresses on rote activitirs rather mindless which luckily it has done many, many times before.

Actually my TV watching recorded shows has added some new knowledg to it all–lately have started on th Ottaman empre an area I know very little on.

Travelling to and from our airport | Fly Safe | Heathrow

From the Airports (London):  Heathrow:  Take the Tube into town and then take a taxi to your hotel.

Gatwick:  Express train services takes you to Victoria Station in half an hour—there’s lots of hotels and restaurants in and around the station—which has a grocery store, an herbal store and a chemist (think drug store) not to mention a food court and several other stores that suit the tourists and more.

A Walk Through The London Victoria Station, London, England

Biggest hoards found by amateur archaeologists in the UK

In the UK the law said:  “treasurs hid in the earth and found shall belong to the Crown.   UK to Change Treasure Act – New Restrictions Proposed

Incredible REAL LIFE Treasure Finds

Try something different this time:

Central Florida has a lot more history than you may think—take Longwood for instance.  The town which is situated at I-4 on the west and 17-92 on the East—basically along 434.  To get to the small downtown turn north on 427–and at the next light turn left or right to find parking—there’s plenty. Or you can get on the local computer train and go to the Longwood terminal and then just walk west toward 427.

Longwood’s Historic District Walking Tour

Back in the 1920’s big time gambling was reported to be available at the Orange and Black Hotel.  Residents at that time complained of not being able to rest at night due to the music at the hotel playing into the night.  That same hotel has had everything there from a umpire school, a movie filming site and a majory meeting for the USA governors as well as being the home to at least one ghost in its long life.

Have fun and make a splash in Orlando North

Longwood in the 20’s and into the 30’s had an active tourist community and winter visitors that held weekly meetings at the Woman’s Club plus put on plays, sing alongs they even had a shuffleboard team and there were games against other Central Florida communities—nothing left to say how well they did though (snicker, snicker).  And picnics and the like were held at Sanlando Springs.   So next time you’re looking for somewhere to go on a weekend or if you’re visiting from out of town and want to see what a real small town in the real Florida  looked/looks? like–give this small but nice town a chance

A Visual Tour of The Bradlee Mcintyre House in Longwood, Florida

 Love Letters In The Sand

What Jacksonville-born entrtainer/author wrote Between You and Me and Gatepost in 1960 and A New Song in 1971?

Pat Boone

Born In Florida  Famous-Notable People

and more

Born In Florida Famous-Notable People

I don’t know about you but the days of the week have been basically lost with me not having some set structure to keep them in order.  I work at home but there is little change from one day to the next.   I have to consult my computer or phone to show where I am in the organized passing of time—-the TV doesn’t help much as so much of it is just the same ole same ole if you know what I mean?!  Some times I actually just set there and work it out myself—so far (fingers crossed) I haven’t lost the months yet.

And as if we don’t have enough to worry about—it look like they are going to use up all the initial vaccine up without giving any 2nd shots which could mean that it is all wasted as if you don’t get a second shot you aren’t immune and I have another question which might be very pertinent—-how long after the first shot will it be useless so that you will have to get 2 more shots rather than one?—-The government impresses me less and less every day with their lack of any practicality or usefulness in working any of this out.

I guess I’ll get started on my taxes—-get the paper work together.  My mail order business has been put on hold for months due to the necessity of going to the post office so often.  At least I’ll have less to figure out…..a sign of the times when something negative proves to be the best reality that you have to think up……tell me folks what are you all doing out there to keep sane.

and yes they are baby pics of me.

Joshua’s Heart | Full Movie | Melissa Gilbert | Tim Matheson | Matthew Lawrence | Lisa Eilbacher

Chest discomfort:  Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back.  It can feel like uncomfortalr pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.

Top 10 Feel-Good Films (To Watch During Quarantine)

one more time

My Heroes Have Always Been Cowboys

Why Romans Adored Emperor Vespasian … – YouTube

The Romans saw Britain as the northernmost part of the world, a land on the very edge of civilization.  The tales of barbaric ritual carried out in shady groves and of screaming, half-human savages, petrified even the battle hardened troops of Claudius in AD43.  The Roman soldiers were paralysed with fear before they stormed the druids powerbase on Angelesy in AD59.

Roman Britain–Heritage Series

The Druids: What Do We Really Know?

Veterinarians Debunk 15 Dog Myths

The Dog Days of Summer coincide with the year’s rising of the Dog Star Sirius (at sunrise).  This was of most import to the ancient Egyptians as this star rose just before the starting of the Nile flood season…and so this let them know when this was to be—-and it also forcast the coming of summer and it’s hot weather.

Black Dog Ghost Mythology & Folklore

I had no idea that Scotland had so many famous scenes in so many famous movies—-like the Hogwarts Express on it’s way to the school crossing this bridge is actually taken at Glenfinnan Viaduct in the Scotish Highlands (filming in 2002 and 2004)

But the Highlands was the site of other filmings.

The Morar beaches 

in 1986 The Higlander   

Rob Roy in 1995

that film crew built a cottage on the northern shore of MorarLoch as one of Rob Roy’s homes.

Glen Nevin

was used in 1995 for the movie

Braveheart‘s early scenes including the adult hero’s return to his home.

While Stanley Kuback in 1968 did an entirely different type of scene here when he filmed the final scene of 2001 A Space Odyssey here

and finally Glen Coe

Here in 1935 Hitcock had Richard Hannan persued across the Glen in the movie The 39 Steps

and then again it appeared in the 2012 James Bond offering:  Skyfall

Damh The Bard – Brighid  

In ancient times the Rowan tree was said to be magical and it’s red berries nourished the gods.  Infact it was believed that the gods guarded these trees.

Brighde Brigantia’s Call

The picture is of the Tor—and from one of my trips on a day trip with a tour out of London.

Walks in Somerset: Exploring Glastonbury Tor

I apologize about not doing many blogs lately—-I am not in a very up mode between the virus and those citizens that are threatening to destroy the counytry that I have lived comfortably in for so many year and love dearly.  We are consumed in the time of plague and violence consumes our time and threatens our freedom while we remain in fear without relief.

Ok less dramatic—but things seem to be esculating out of all reason…I am in a time of my life when I had hoped for relaxation, travel and the company of friend and new aquaintances about.

Needless to say this has not been the case for near on a  year with me spending the majority of my hours reading and communicating in one way or the other on the computer and calling my closer friends for relief from the TV shows and movies that seem to be continually run and re-run for ever and ever, Amen.

Ancient Exploration: Old Sarum

Below is Old Sarum—-I visited here on my first trip to UK—where I stayed for two weeks by myself in London and took day tours out and about to places I wanted to see…..

A History of Central Florida

Slavia

was a colony in  Central Florida established in 1912 on what is now SR 46 by the Duda family and other Slavic settlers in the area.

The Duda Family

Aromatherapy: A Beginner’s Guide

Getting thru our house arrest

Aroma Therapy

Eucalyptus

This aroma is Invigoratin, penetrating,  balancing and it is known for opening the energetic pathways of the body and the mind.

Aromatherapy for Anxiety – How Does It Work?

The Boscastle and Tintagel Area of Cornwall is a bit off the beaten path though they are quite of interest to the tourists who come seartching for a spot of ancient times, a whiff of King Arthur and more—the area of Lesnewth 

has a church of St. Michael and All Angels .  This church was originally built in Saxon times and sets in a dip which was reportedly slected as a way to hide it from the sea and thus the Vikings which at this time were quite a problem.  And while they wer hidden from the sea they wer sitll found by the Vikings,  as the church proved to be right along the route that the marauders took to pillage the Manor of Helset and so they were included in the pillage—two for one you might say

More invaders (and with major Viking ancestry) the Normans were here in the 12th century and built another church here—-and the tower you see today was built 300 years later.  described as a beautiful church as is often the case in the UK the church deteriorated over time and in 1862 wa in poor repair by the early 1860’s.  Then J.P. St. Aubyn, an archtect (natch) came along and was suppose to restore it but he basically tore the majority of it down and kept little of the previous ancient church.

Today what you see is a Victorian recreation (hey it’s over 150 years old so for us Americans seeing something like that is impressive)—but wander what the villages’ opinion was of St. Aubyn’s work?   But it does still hold the name of the Protector of Cornwall so that’s a good thing.

The Moon, Religion and Science – Belief in Dialogue (1/6)

The moon’s cycles were considered by some ancient beliefs to be the total of all lives lived.

Chandra – God Of The Moon

This is Highgate cemetery—-well worth a visit

LONDON: Stunning HIGHGATE CEMETERY 

Before this plague all began I had spent monyhs planning and discussing and then making reservations for a month  (actually 33 days) long get away to the UK, with a close, long time friend (who had accompanied me on three previous trips) and a newer aquaintance whom we had meet more recently and who we’d invited to come with us.  But with the coming of the virus that hope gradually faded until it currently is a vague idea that we may be able to take the trip in 2022.

With all the world and especially the USA going bonkers I have cut down my time watchin news reports—except the local ones.  In fact I’ve have gone a lot to shows I’ve recorded—things like Miss Fisher’s and Midsummer both murder mysteries—and of course the old movies like The Thin Man goes Home.  I know a lot of people these days won’t watch black and white—I think so many of our productions now days are less than they can be because they are so disguised with color and special effects, three D and what ever,  that they lack the plot and dialogue that is what for me makes the thing!  when you take all that away then you have to put something there that entertains and keeps the interest….ah gee what could that be?

If it’s not too cold or rainy there’s walks outside in some area where the crowds don’t form a health risk of course.  Do note in reference to  that last paragraph–that I will skip the Jack Lemon moviies since personally don’t think they (movies) or he is particularly funny,

and I took this one somewhere about London….

Rise of the Knights Templar – full documentary

The Templers came into existance in the second decade of the 12th century and their original function was not hiding treasure so we could have unlimited reality shows about them on TV.  but in protecting pilgrams on the dangerous road from the Port of Jaffa and up the road to Jeresulem.

Holy Land – Ep: 1 | Crusades | 

more my London pics—see site below for building details

THOMAS MOORE CHAMBERS

and in case you don’t know Sir Moore

The Life of St. Thomas More – YouTube

and can’t forget the main picture

Old Curosity Shop  in London too