NEW LOOK

I changed my blog page with the changing season.  I hope you like it.  I will try to keep adding or changing things on my blog page to keep it fresh.  Let me know what you like and do not like, so I can satisfy my adoring public.

Update from Last Week

     Hi everyone.  I apologize for not blogging last week; however, it was just one of those weeks where I did not have enough hours in the days to get everything done.  Work, needless to say, has been hectic and quite frustrating and stressful.  I will give you the highlights from last week as best I can without writing a novel.

MONDAY:  This was a fairly good day since I took this day off.  I have so much overtime and they only pay back overtime in time off, which is fine by me.  I now have about two days in overtime.  I average about two days of overtime a month due to all the travel I have to do to visit my clients.  Anyway, on Monday I ran some errunds, then took a long walk along one of the park pathways.  It was a beautiful day out.  I enjoyed the leisure time.

TUESDAY:  Back to the grind!!!  As most of you know, once you return to work from time off, there seems to be twice as much work to do than when you left.  This was definately the case with me.  Not only do I have TONS of paperwork to do, but I also have meetings which were set-up prior to me coming to the UK which I now must attend.  The Reviewing Officer was asking me where the meeting was located and I told her I had no clue.  She looked at me like I was crazy.  At which time I explained to her that I only found out about these meetings until this morning, so don't look at me like that!!!!  The meeting did go smoothly, thankfully.

WEDNESDAY:  This was the beginning of the "big slide" for me this week.  You see, there are two different "teams" involved with a mother and her newborn (my and the 0 - 12 year old team) and I have been trying to assist this young mother to get to her newborn's meetings; however, the other team is not telling me that they cancelled a meeting or changed this mother's visitation sites, etc.  Then ,when transportation does not work for the young mother, everyone looks to me as though it's all my fault.  NO!!!
There is a crappy communication system here: when a person"emails" someone with information, they assume that's good enough and the other person will read their emails.  No one picks up a phone around here!!!!  Holy shit -- they do EVERYTHING through computers!!!  Once again, no wonder their system is skrewed up over here.  Anyways, this all happened today and my paperwork keeps piling up.

THURSDAY:  I got to travel to Coventry by train today to meet with two young persons I have as clients.  They are AWESOME!!!  This is only one of two cases where I can just monitor their progress b/c their foster parents are absolutely brilliant.  I got to work at 7:30am because I was trying to finish a report due for tomorrow that my supervisor just gave me to do yesterday at 1:00pm.  Figures.  Well, I was able to finish, so the train ride to/from Coventry was relaxing; although my return train was late, but I didn't mind.  Once back at work, I ran into the same crap as yesterday where this young mother did not get to see her newborn since the transprotation got "fuck-up."  Pardon my French, but I am still this mad because I warned others this would happen due to "to many hand in the pot."  I also had to listen to a mother who wants to see her children but is not permmitted.  After her screaming in my ear, I was able to calm her down but it just added to the building stress I am feeling.

FRIDAY:  This began with a long drive from Reading to Peterborough (northeast from Reading) starting out at 7:00am with two senior people from Children's Social Services.  They are both very nice women, but I felt uncomfortable the entire trip up there (3 hours).  We hit traffic on the M25, which is the motorway around London.  They is always under construction on this road and it backs up traffic for miles.  We were on our way to visit this same young mother who missed her visits for a meeting  - the same meeting for which my report was due.  Anyway, I knew this young mother would chew my ear off since she has a very bad temper, but much to my surprise, she handled herself very well.  The meeting went smoothly - again - and I was able to provide her with some positive news before this long weekend.  The drive back to Reading was much better for me, and I got to know these two senior prople quite well.  Bonus for me!!!  I was so tired when I finally got home at 4:00pm, I had a pizza then went to bed.

     I did wake up at 11:00pm to watch the Pens game live on my computer.  It ended about 2:30am Saturday morning over here, but this is the Stanley Cup playoffs and I'm not going to miss this just for some much-needed sleep.  Okay, I believe I have caught-up on the happenings of this past week.  I am still stressed about money problems, dropping my phone and breaking, piles of paperwork still to do, and very little time for myself.  I will pick -up with today (Saturday) in my next blog.

London Marathon Pictures

  Hi everyone.  I have had little time and less motivation to blog this past week, however, I am posting some  pictures from the London Marathon which I watched this past weekend.  After the lead runners and the beginning of the masses came past me, I did a little tour of London.  Too much to see to take in all at once.  I must say that standing at the foot of Big Ben during the race was pretty spectacular!!!  When Big Ben chimed, the sound was quite breath-taking. 

I have somehow LOST my pictures from Windsor Castle, but not to fear.  I only live one-half hour away, so I will return to take more pictures.  Well, enjoy the pictures for now.  I will catch up on the blog pages later in the week or this weekend.  I have May 3rd off due to the holiday of May Day.

Reflection Sunday: Week 8

     On this two-month anniversay of my first attempt at blogging, I have to say that I have been liking all the comments about those travelling this journey with me.  Even though the commetns are NOT posted on my blog page (excedpt for a few faithful ones!!!), I have heard by other means -- friends, family, emails, phone calls -- that many of you have been following along with me.  I want to thank everyone for thier continued support and prayers for me, especially during the difficult times.

THANK YOU EVERYONE!!!

     This Sunday evening I am not feeling quite well due to some stuffy sinus and a sore throat.  Honestly, many people have been feeling the same way - maybe it could well be from the ash cloud filtering over the UK.  It really doen't matter to me how I got it, I still feel yucky.  However, I must tell you that I had no plans this weekend other than to go into work of Saturday morning; but the weekend turned out to be very fun and relaxing!!!  Tonight, the last person to come from the US -- she had to wait because she just got married in March -- cooked all of us dinner.  Or, should I say, she and her husband cooked us dinner.  We had stewed chicken, rice, corn, and home-made potato salad.  WHAT A FEAST!!!  Once again, we all got together, vented about our frustrations at work, and then laughed and laughed about it.  With all the difficulties have have incurred along the way, I must say that I have made very good friends whom I trust and care about.  Friends are extra special to me since I can choose my friends and they can choose me!!! 

     This reflection post is all about expecting the unexpected from God -- blessing you with something totally different -- even if that blessing is something you did not want.  This past week I have been trying to catch up on all my paperwork and tasks at work, but when the end of the day came, I would just have more work -- not less.  Walking home, I would think about all I did NOT get done that day instead of smiling at the things I DID get done.  Twice this past week, I was stopped by the triplets -  black & white kitties - on the walk to my house.  Of course I would stop to pet them.  They are funny because they all try to push the other one out from under my hands to get their backs or chins scratched.  Not expecting Moe, Larry & Curly to greet me on my way home, they were a welcomed, innocent, and blessed pleasure to the end of some very stressful days.  Then, I had two wonderful days travelling to & from Wales and visiting Windsor Castle.

     I never intended or expected any of these simple, yet wonderful blessings in my day when I woke up in the morning.  However, I was all smiles when I laid my head on my pillow at night.  I thanked God for opening my eyes to the gifts of each day.  As funny as this may sound, I now expect the unexpected to happen; and when it does, I know that God has this unexpected event into my life for a reason -- good or not-so-good.  I am just thankful that I now recognize that God is with me always and whatever He sends my way, it is from Him.  I give glory and praise to God for all that He has blessed in my life.

I AM BLESSED!!!

Windsor Castle

     On Saturday morning, I headed into the office to try and get some much-needed paperwork done.  I was to meet Valerie in there at 9:00am, but she never showed.  The day was absolutely georgeous -- sunny (not a cloud in the sky) and warm with the smells of spring in the air.  I had planned only to work until noon, so I knew that I had to focus to try to put a dent in my "cyclone of a desk."  I was able to accomplish some filing, answering emails, typing contact summaries; however, the time flew by and before I knew it, the time was 11:30am.  As I prepared to begin another report, I decided the day was too beautiful to waste indoors, so I began to pack it in.  As I was doing so, Valerie sauntered through the front door.  She was coming to do her paperwork.  As I was talking with her,  Jana and Danielle called and said they were going to Windsor Castle and invited me along. HMMMMMMM . . . OKAY!!!!!   No chance was I missing out on this awesome opportunity on such a lovely day.

     I met them at the train station to catch our train from Reading to Slough to Windsor.  A very short train ride - about half-an-hour in total. This was the last weekend of the Spring school holiday and the weather was the best in the UK this year, so one could only imagine how Windsor Castle might be -- crowded!!!  It was not packed, but just crowded.  As the train got closer to Windsor, we were able to see the castle, but then it disappeared behind the buildings.  When we walked up the hill from the train station, Windsor Castle hit me like a two-by-four across the chest -- BREATHTAKING!!! Such majesty and awe when in her close presence!!!  Jana and I could not stop taking pictures.  Flat Stanely just happened to be with me but I forgot to take him out to take pictures.  He was still able to appreciate Windsor Castle. 

    We went to stand in line to pay to get into the castle, but one would think that with all the gold and jewels sitting in this place, one would be able to get in free.  Nope!!!  Same as always -- the rich keep taking fromn the poor.  Anywho, we were able to get a yearly pass for the price of our admission since we all had addresses in the UK.  This is good for others who come over so we can use them for others to get in free as well (or not).  Once we got inside, we opted to get one of those free "guided tour" listening earpieces.  Jana and I had a heck of a time getting it to rest on our ears, so we just took the earpiece out and listen to it like a phone.  After the introduction, Prince Edward became our tour giude.  Jana and I decided we didn't need him to show off his residence, so we bagged the tour. 

     Reading all the history about Windsor Castle and the Royal Family line was just fascinating to me.  The gardens were in full bloom with tulips, budding trees, and green, green grass.  I could definately get in trouble playing as a kid in this fortress!!!  We opted not to go inside to see Queen Mary's Doll House -- we heard people's disappointments as they exited the castle, so we decided to go and bug one of the guards to get his picture.  He didn't care -- we were just "those annoying Americans" trying to get him to look at us.  Just walking outside on the grounds was so cool and beautiful!!!  For some reason, we were all fascinated by the lamp posts and lanterns, so we took lots of pictures of them.  As we headed for the exit, we were pleasantly astonished and speechless at the sight of St. George's Chapel (which is by no means a small chapel). This is the size of a cathedral!!! 

     When I entered the chapel, my eyes began to tear at the beauty and grandeur of this place.  The intricate details on the ceiling -- painting and carvings of saints, biblical history, and former shields of past kings and queens.  Inside, there were sarcophagi of kings, queens and other English notables; along with marble placements on the floor noting the burial place for relatives of the kings and queens.  I could not take in all the history or details of this chapel since it is soooooooo massive!!!  I look forward to returning to it  WITH VISITORS, so I can see it again and again.  I did not want to leave, but all of us were starving, so we headed for the exit -- again.  Once we were near the exit, we noticed a guard standing at his post.  He was so still I think most people did not even realize he was there.  All of a sudden, he went through his march routine, walking back and forth, patrolling his area.  It was so cool to see this.  The "changing of the guard" happens in the morning, so we missed that part; but he was cool to watch.  Jana and I were joking that he must be "low man on the totum pole" to have this duty.  He looked like he could be 19 or 20 years young.  He did not even look like he started to shave yet.  This whole time touring Windsor Castke, Danielle, Jana and I laughed and joked and had such a good time.  I always have fun with them.

    We finally exited the castle grounds and headed straight for food!!! There is a little "alley" near the castle which has many little food places with outdoor seating.  We opted for an Italian place sitting in the shade -- we didn't want our wine to get too warm :-))  I cannot pronounce what I ate but it had mushrooms in an alfredo sauce.  Just as we got our food, the church bells started to chime.  It was perfoect!!!!  As we ate, the church bells continued to chime . . . and chime . . . and chime!!!  This went on for 15 minutes.  The ladies sitting next to us were laughing at our comments about the damn bells!!!  They just sat there and laughed as we commented on how someone needs to get the kids off the bell ropes.  It was probably the "neighbor's kids."  Once again, we laughed and laughed!!!  After lunch/dinner, we walked down along the Thames River park and into Windsor Town Center.  Windsor is a beautiful little town.  After touring the shoppes, we were getting tired so we headed back for the train.

     On our way back to Reading, talked about the day we just had and all the fun we had with each other.  I will definately be going back to Windsor Castle several times.  I just hope I will have company from home to come with me.  I know my description of this day would not do any justice to the magnificent and awesome day I had, but there will be pictures soon -- I PROMOSE!!!  When the day was over and I laid my head on my pillow, I just thanked God for another wonderful expereince along my journey for His Will.  I am blessed!!!  What an awesome Saturday at WIndsor Castle.

Fantastic Friday

     When many of us wake up on a Friday morning to go to work, we say to ourselves, TGIF!!!!  As if to say, thank yoiu so much for getting to Friday so I can rest and have fun this weekend.  No more work after today for two days.  This, of course, is for those who have a Monday - Friday job (not counting overtime).  Well, when this past Friday rolled around, I said the same thing -- TGIF!!!  However, mine was to say that I am so excited to go to work today!!!  Why?  I was headed back to Northern Wales -- this time on a train!  Last time I went, I was driven by one of myt co-workers.  This time I could relax and just take in all the scenery.  Plus, it was one of the most beautiful days of this year -- sunny, warm, and not a cloud in the sky.

     The train was crowded since there were no planes flying due to the volcano ash from Iceland, so many people were taking trains to meetings around the UK.  I made sure to get windows seats when I first got on the trains just so I could stare out the windows.  My first train went from Reading to Birmingham; the second from Birmingham to Crewe; the last one from Crewe to Chester.  All stops within England.  The trip from Reading to birmingham was beautiful since I got to see many places from the train window.  When the train stopped in Oxford, I could see so many cathedral roofs and steeples.  I want to visit Oxford someday soon.  I did not get to see B irmingham since I had to run to catch the train to Crewe.  I had five minutes to run from one platform to another, and since I am a runner-at-heart, I was up to the challenge.  I made it as the train doors closed.  These trains leave ON TIME!!!  Don't be a minute late or you would have to wait for the next one.

     From Birmingham to Crewe, the countryside seemed to get greener and greener.  I loved this portion of my trip.  The train would lean to one side as it rounded a bend then lean to the other side to snake its way through the hills and between farmlands.  Did I happen to mention all the SHEEP!!!  I think I did in some prior blogs, but it's worth mentioning again.  HOLY SHEEP!!!!  I saw many animals as a matter of fact.  Sheep, cows, horses, swans (lots of those), ducks, and deer.  Yeah, they have deer over here too, but not like in Pennsylvania.  The deer herelook different -- more furier (sp?).  Once I got to Crewe, I had to sprint again to catch my train from Crewe to Chester, England.  While running to the train, I had to call the staff at the place where I was to visit my client so they could come and pick me up at the train station.  They were still an hours drive north in Wales from Chester.  This train ride was sort; however, still very beautiful.  I saw the remains of an old castle or church on a cliff while riding along.  I wanted to shout and share it with someone, but I knew I would probably be throw off the train for that, so I kept my mouth shut.  As I noticed the landscape and houses as I got closer to Wales, I could definately tell the difference in the makeup of the buildings.  The stones are lighter and thicker in England than in Wales.

     When I got off the train, I had to wait for my ride outside the train station in Chester.  The buildings looked very authentic and in their original style.  As I noticed this, I decided to go back into the building to see if they had any pamphlets on the town.  Turns out that this is a very touristy place to visit in the summer -- even for those in the UK.  Chester is an old Roman occupied city with walls dating back 2,000 years ago.  They also have the world's most photographed clock (second to Big Ben) which is called The Eastgate Clock built to celebrate Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee in 1897.  I found out from the young lady, Sharan, who picked me up from the train station that all this was located within the small city of Chester.  Chester also boasts of the oldest horrse racetrack in England.  When I told my friends about Chester when I returned home, we all decided to make this a weekend trip soon.  These countries are wonderful to visit old castles, churches, homes, pubs, etc.  I just LOVE history!!!

    Sharan drove me north from Chetser into the hills of Wales into their national parkcalled, Snowdonia.  As before, it is the most beautiful place I have visited so far.   I think I say that with every new place I visit.  But this trip was great!!!  The young man I went to visit was quite and shy to me at first, but opened up to me as we ate luch.  We got to take about what he wants to happen in his life.  I think his requestes were very legitimate questions and he did not seem too get too angry about not getting the answers he had hoped to get. The young man and I went outside in the yard to talk in private and this was a great time to get to know my young person.  I gave him some positive news, and he was very excited about this news.  After talking or about 45 minutes, it was time for me to get back to the train station.  There is more that happened; however, I cannot let you know due to confidentiality.  Anyways, it was a great visit with this young man.

     As we headed back to the train station,. I got to talk to this young man some more, and by the time I said good-bye to him at the stataion, he was asking me when I would be back.  A good sign!!!  I gave him some dates and he will be counting the days for my return.  The train ridae back to Reading was just was excitiing as the ride up, but this time the sun was setting and the countryside looked beqautiful but different than before.  I can't wait until I return in May.  I get to see this all over again.

     I got back to Reading at 8:10pm, then headed to the bar to meet the U.N. Crew where we had decided to meet for our monthly gathering.  I got there late, so I did not order food. I just picked off others as they offered me food.  Once again, I had so much fun with my friends, and I called it a night around 10:00pm.  A very long day; however, quite a great day for me.

A Fantastic Friday!!!

Trivia Answer: Steel City in England???

     During the 19th century, Sheffield, England gained an international reputation for its steel production. Many innovations were developed locally, including crucible and stainless steel, fuelling an almost tenfold increase in the population during the Industrial Revolution. Sheffield received its municipal charter in 1893, when it officially became the City of Sheffield. International competition in iron and steel caused a decline in traditional local industries during the 1970s and 1980s, coinciding with the collapse of coal mining in the area. Sounds a lot like Pittsburgh, doesn’t it?


     Sheffield is a city and metropolitan borough of South Yorkshire, England. Its name derives from the River Sheaf, which runs through the city. Historically a part of the West Riding of Yorkshire, the city has grown from its largely industrial roots to encompass a wider economic base. The population of the City of Sheffield is 534,500, but the wider Sheffield Urban Area, which extends beyond the city proper, had a population of 640,720 as of the 2001 census. Sheffield is one of the eight largest regional English cities in England. The City of Sheffield is near the confluence of five rivers, and much of it is built on hillsides with views either into the city centre or out onto the countryside. It is estimated that Sheffield has over two million trees, more per person than any other city in Europe.

     So, all of you who voted for Sheffield as the Steel City of England – CONGRATS!!! Everyone else, we know where the “real” Steel City is located:

 Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA!!!

LONDON PICTURES!!!

     Make sure you check out my pictues from London and Greewich from last weekend.  I was a blast!!!

Reflection Sunday: Week 7

(I posted two blog entries before this one, so make sure you read those first before you move to the next one.  Sorry about slacking off this past week; however I have been struggling with a lingering illness.)  

   I cannot believe that I have been here for two months already.  Honestly, it seems like I've been here for three to four months.  This past week, although a short one due to our bank holiday on Easter Monday, was long and difficult for me.  I tried to find some "normalcy" in my work, but several of my cases exploded with criis after crisis.  Throughout this past week, I found myself asking God "Why?  Why did You send me here to experience such struggles and hardships right in the beginning of my ministry here in the UK?  Why do you let such hard times befall me when I am here to do your will?  YO are the One who wanted me to come here -- so here I am Lord!!!"  Does it sound like I am angry at God?  Well, honestly, I was.  I could not help the way I was feeling, so I did what I was taught to do by a wonderful therapist -- I had to accept my feelings and take ownership of them.  They are MY feelings and they are in reaction to a scarey and difficult experience.  I know that my God forgave me when I asked for His forgiveness at becoming so angry with Him.  But I know He has broad shoulders and will help me carry my cross.

     Reflecting upon this past week, I also realized that I must take time away from work with my friends and enjoy this country which God has placed my to walk His journey here on earth.  Although I was not feeling well for most of last week, I was able to manage some fun, quality time with my friends here in the UK.  You see, these "Reflection Sundays" are mostly for my benefit to help me learn from my mistakes, struggles, and hard times.  They are also a time for me to find the positive, good, and fun times I had throughout the previous week.  Because, my friends and family, there is not a week that does not go by where we experience both positive & negative; fun & boring; happy & sad times throughout our days.  Most of the time, we focus on the negative -- well, at least I did.  But now I an trying to focus on the positive, fun and blessed times.  I believe that is what Jesus would want us to do; especially during this joyous time after His Ressurrection. 

    Sure, I struggled with trying to balance serveral emergencies in my work, but I also found time to spend with good friends and enjoy that which God has given to me.  I am blessed to have such wonderful friends in a strange and far-away country fron you to find support and genuine care and concern for each person.  As they care for me, so I care and find comfort in them.  Folks, I continue to challenge you to find the positive part of each week and to dwell on those fun and/or fond memories.  If you are one to get caught up in the negative parts of your life or the life of another individual, then focus on those positive parts of your week.  If you cannot find any psoitive areas of your past week(s), then that is my challenge to you: to identify the positive areas of your past week and throw those memories into the front of your mind so that you made be in a positive frame of heart, mind and soul to hear God's wonderful word in your heart.  Have fun this week, wherever you decided to turn to find it -- in the small or grand -- the positives are there; just go grab them!!!

Saturday in Greenwich & London

   Although I was not feeling well, I managed to pull myself out of bed, get dressed, pack a bag for the day, and head to Reading Station to go into London to with friends for some R&R.  Well, everyone, it was well worth the effort!!!  My friend, Danielle, and I went to Greenwich today since it was absolutely beautiful outside (sunny and warm)!!! It only costs 20 pounds to get an all-day pass for the train, London tube, and buses, which is an awesome deal. We took the train from Reading to London Paddington Station; then two tubes and a bus rideto Canary Wharf; then another train from Canary Wharf to Greenwich. The first thing we did was head to Greenwich Market to get something to eat. I got a Spanish sausage tapa ("on bread" or "sandwich") with chips -- it was the best thing I have tasted over here to date!!! We sat on Greenwich dock along the Thames River while we ate and people-watched (my absolute favorite pastime!!). After we ate, we headed to Greenwich Park and went to the Observatory. I got a picture of The Prime Meridian (0 degrees 0'0"). I was standing across the line dividing the West from the East. How cool is that!!! Not only have I stood West to East over the Prime Meridian, but I also stood North to South over the Equator!!! And I have pictures to prove it!!!


     After Danielle and I walked down from the Observatory, we went back to Greenwich Market to do some "window" shopping. I was very tempted to buy some wonderful items; however, I did not since I really must save my money right now to buy furniture for my house and food for my fridge. Maybe next time I go I will buy some things. I did find a some gifts for up-coming birthdays and anniversaries, but they will have to wait as well. The market closes at 5:30pm, so Danielle and I went to meet two more friends at Trafalgar Square in London. It was really awesome to stand at "the lions" and see Big Ben, the National Museum, and other places I have only seen in the movies. We sat up on the huge lions and just "people-watched" for about an half-an-hour. We then got a bit thirsty, so we headed for a pub to quench our thirsts. We found a wonderful little pub called "Tom Cribb." Tom Cribb was London's world champion bare-knuckle boxer from 1804 to 1822, who was trained by Captain Barclay. The pub was very awesome and we had a good time laughing at our day today.

    We then met up with two more friends, so we went to dinner in Piccadilly Square. We had such a fun time together, laughing about everything and nothing at all. When someone mentioned a work-related topic, we quickly changed it and talked about something else. It was so great to get together in London on such a wonderful day/evening. After we finished dinner, we all took the tube back to Paddington Station, where we split up to head back to our respective areas of living. Two live right outside London, so four of us said good-bye to them. We hopped on our train back to Reading Station and had many laughs on our way home. Once at Reading Station, we each caught our respective buses home. I walked in the door at 11:30pm.  The entire day was probably THE best time I have had here in England since arriving.

    The friends I have made here are so wonderful and I will continue to say that I am "blessed" to have such an awesome group of people to experience the once-in-a-lifetime opporturnity.  I just pray they feel the same about me.   (Pictures to follow soon)

Trivia Answer to "The Lizard"

    Two correct answers!!!  You must be from here or have visited The Lizard in thepast.  Either way, Kuddos!!!

     The Lizard is a peninsula of Cornwall, and contains the most southerly point of mainland Cornwall and of the island of Great Britain, Lizard Point. The peninsula measures approximately 14 miles x 14 miles.  Historically a particularly hazardous stretch of coastline, it was also known as the "Graveyard of Ships".

   The name 'Lizard' is most probably a corruption of the Cornish name 'Lys Ardh', meaning 'high court'; it is purely coincidental that much of the peninsula is composed of a rock called serpentinite. The Lizard peninsula's original name may have been the Celtic name 'Predannack' ("British one") as during the Iron Age (Pytheas c. 325 BC) and Roman period, Britain was known as Pretannike (in Greek) and as Albion (and Britons the 'Pretani').  The rocks of the Lizard are extremely metamorphosed and folded in many places. The Lizard is important from a geological point of view as it is Britain's most complete example of an ophiolite; a large proportion of the rock is serpentinite.

There is evidence of early habitation with several burial mounds and stones. Part of the peninsula is known as the Meneage (land of the monks). There are several towns and villages on the peninsula.  Helston once headed the estuary of the River Cober, before it was cut off from the sea by Loe Bar in the 13th century. It was a small port which exported tin and copper. Helston was certainly in existence in the sixth century when it was inhabited by Saxons.   The name comes from the Cornish 'hen lis' or 'old court' and 'ton' added later to denote a Saxon manor; the Domesday Book refers to it as Henliston (which survives as the name of a road in the town). It was granted its charter by King John in 1201. It was here that tin ingots were weighed to determine the duty due to the Duke of Cornwall when a number of stannary towns were authorised by royal decree.

     By the 14th century, a hamlet of fishermen's dwellings had established itself around the cove at Porthleven, named from the old Cornish 'porth' (harbour) and 'leven' (level or smooth). It grew with miners and farm workers; and building of a harbor began in 1811. In 1855 the harbor was deepened, and a boatbuilding industry began, lasting until recently. The port imported coal, limestone and timber, and exported tin, copper and china clay. The harbor also heralded the start of Porthleven's golden days of pilchard fishing.

     Mullion has the 15th century church of St Mellanus, and the Old Inn from the 16th century. The harbor was completed in 1895 and financed by Lord Robartes of Lanhydrock as recompense to the fishermen for several disastrous pilchard seasons.  The small church of St Peter in Coverack, built in 1885 for £500, has a serpentinite pulpit.

     Well folks, that's The Lizard in jolly ole' England.  Best of luck on the next trivia question!!!!

Back 2 Work

     Well, it was back to work after a lovly Easter Holiday weekend.  Having a four-day weekend with Friday and Monday as our days off, sure makes me want to take a longer holiday soon.  However, that will come in due time; just not now.  Today started off quite hectic as I tried to log on to a computer and it kept telling me that I was entering the wrong password.  No, I wasn't!!!  It's the same password I use for everything because I'm too forgetful to have several passwords for different applications at home and at work.  Anyway, if the damn computer says your "wrong," then your "WRONG" -- even if you are right.  Kinda like when we were kids, and no matter what our parents said, they were always right; even if they were wrong (which was often since there was six of us). 

     As I was fighting with my computer -- which was kicking my ass -- I received a call from the emergency duty team informing me of an incedent over the long weekend with one of my clients.  Great, everything I need (client information, phone numbers, names, etc.) is on the damn computer and I have no access to it.  When I went to see a supervisor to ask about what I needed to do next, lo-and-behold, none were around.  GO FIGURE!!!  Anywho, I did what I could over the phone with various agencies, then practically stormed the one supervisor's office to ask for assistance.  Oh wait, I forgot to mention at the beginning, I had to go back to Herne Bay today for a statutory visit with the clients and foster parents; therefore, I had to leave the office by 11:00am for a 1:00pm appointment.  When my supervisor did arrive and learned that I was in this predicament, she discussed with me the procedures which needed to be addressed, then said she would follow-up with this matter while I am in Herne Bay. 

     t was such a beautiful, sunny and warm day to drive to the coast.  The drive was much different than the last one where it was rainy and cold.  I did; however, get to see my black sheep and windmill again.  I statred giggling when I saw them after the conversation I had with Jan.  I was not with her this time, but the memoriy is still fresh in my mind.

     I had a very pleasant chat with my clients and their foster parents for about 2 hours, then I went down to the beach area and walked for a bit.  This was my "lunch time."  Back in the car, I headed for home around 4:00pm and was sweating bullets that I did not hit traffic on the  M25.  Anyone who has ever been to London or England around this area knows quite well to STAY AWAY FROM THE M25 AT RUSH HOUR!!!!  A true nightmare!!!!  As fate would have it, the children are on school holiday for two weeks which made the M25 not as crowded and much tolerable that I thought.  Thank you, Lord Jesus!!!

     When I got home, I was able to work on my new puzzle and read a little before I went to bed.  All-in-all, a good day.  It would have been a GREAT day if it were not for the first two hours at work yesterday morning.  Tomorrow, I am scheduled to take the day off to make up for overtime (toil time)., but I believe I will make it a half day off so I can visit another one of my clients who is much closer to Reading than today.  BTW, tomorrow my new sofa gets delivered to my house.  Also, I am bidding on eBay for antique bedroom furniture, and the price is unbelieveablly low.  I will check to see just haw much I am outbid tomorrow.  Good night everyone.  Catch you all later in the week. 

I ADDED NEW PICTURES, FOLKS.  GO CHECK OUT  "OUR GANG!!!"
I know, this was a fairly boring post today, but much, much needed after last week.  I just need one or two or three of these days to get my head on straight.  Thanks for understanding everyone.

Reflection Sunday - EASTER DAY

     As this past Lenten Season has passed and Our Lord, Jesus Christ has risen from the dead, I have only one this to say say:

HALLELUJEH!!!

    For it is through Christ's death on the cross and ressurection from the tomb that I am able to rejoice in all that I have today and all that will come to me in the future.  As most of you know, it has been a difficult journey so far and an extremely difficult week last week, but today is The NEW DAWN of better days!  Now is the time to rejoice; even in all the troubles, struggles, and difficult times we have had in our pasts, and thank God for bringing His son into this workd to save us.  I consider myself a messanger to Christ's message of love for ALL others -- even those who have hurt us or betrayed us.  For that is what Christ Jesus did; and He wants us to follow in His footsteps.

"If I, your teacher, have washed your feet, then you must go and wash the feet of another.  I have given you a model to follow, so that I have done to you, so you should also do.  Amen, I say to you, no slave is greater than his master nor any messanger greater than the one who sent [her]."   [John 13:14 - 17]

Fly-tipping = ???

     Okay, whoever CORRECTLY answered this week's trivia question is either very lucky or a Brit (please let me know who got this one).  "Fly-tipping" is the illegal dumping of trash onto roadways, sidewalks and pathways.  I was inspired to write this trivia question after I passed a sign next to dumpers saying "No fly tipping permitted."  So, I'm thinking what the hell is "fly tipping?"  Is this like dumpster diving?  Trash picking?  I dunno . . . I'm just girl from The 'Burgh who now lives in England.  As I was walking with my supervisor to another office to review files, she darted across the street to cross traffic.  That's when I asked her if every here "jaywalks?"  She looked at me like I had three heads with horns growing out of each one.  "Jaywalking!!!"  What the hell is that?"  I looked astonished that she had no clue as to what is jaywalking (walking across the street outside of marked cross-walk or against a traffic signal).  To which I exclaimed, "No wonder so many people get hit by cars over here.  It's legal to run into traffic anywhere you please."  We both started laughing.

     Well, now that you know what fly-tipping is, I will humor those in the US with more little terms which the "English" have decided is part of their language.  Go figure.

nappy       =       diaper
bonnet      =       hood of a car
boot         =       truck of a car
"Bugger!" (slang)    =   "SHIT!"  (not slang)
brilliant    =        great; wonderful
ring me    =       call me
"Hiya"        =     "Hello"
"One off"    =    speical; one time event
someone looks "smart"    =  someone looks "sharp"
waffle      =   to talk on and on about nothing (like most Congressmen)
jacksie!!!    =    asshole!!!
"having kittens"   =   jittery; very anxious

Now, I KNOW that some of these are even new to those former Brits who have been away from this island for a while, but these words and terms are up-to-date.  And, as far as calling those who lived/live in Great britian; those who live in the USA are called "ex-pats" or "ex-patriots"  How's that for "rubbing salt in a wound." 

HMMMMM . . . I wonder if they know that expression here.  Oh well . . . who cares.

Cheers!!!  =   Later Shithead!!!  :-)

CRITICAL INCIDENT - Prayers Needed!!!

     Yesterday, Wednesday (31st March), I was physically assaulted at my place of work by a man who is familiar to this office and has a recent past of aggressive bahaviors.  I will not spell out the details since this is extremely fresh for me, and I want to wait until I hear more from the police and my supervisors.  I am physically okay; however, emotionally I am not doing well at all.  This aggressive assault triggered memories of a past physical attack on me.  I have informed my family and my closest friends who are supporting me and praying for me.  I am just asking for your prayers  to get me through this difficult time so I can continue to do God's work.

     I know that with time, counseling and prayers, I will be okay and back to being "Patty" again.  But for now, I feel like a victim again -- which I am.  I will process through this and be well again.  I cannot put a timeframe on this process, but I will tell you this will NOT take as long as the last time.  I have too many family and friends to support me this time.  Also, my supervisors have been very supportive and understanding.  I thank God for placing me in the presence of wonderful, caring and compassionate people (no matter how much I have criticized their system or not).  Thank you for your prayers.  Be well.

A Day of Firsts!!!

     Beginning Sunday morning and continuing through today, I have been feeling extremely sick (headache, nausea, tired) so bear with me everyone.

     The reason for the title of this blog, "A Day of Firsts!" is due to the fact that I saw a couple of "firsts" in my lifetime and I wanted to let you know just how wonderful it was to see these things.  You  see, I had to visit another new client today for this young person's educational review and he/she lives in a small resort town on the shores of Kent called, Herne Bay.  What a very quaint little town.  This is the type of seaside town where many people visit during the summer and I can see why.  This part of the English shorline is very pretty and, since Great Britian is an island, I am sure there are many more beautiful coastlines like this one.  Well, this is just my thought, but remember, I have only been in this country for 7 weeks, so my thoughts don't hold much clout.
     My first FIRST is something a bit comical; but nonetheless, a first for me.  As my "partner in crime," Jan, was driving us to this educational review (she is the virtual head of Children in Care for Reading), I was admiring the southeast countryside of England out of my passanger-side window.  Up ahead in the distance, I saw a shimmering light . . . (no wait, that's a song.  Name that tune?).  No really; up ahead in the distance, I noticed a few black animals on a hillside.  I could not make out what type of animal these were, but as we drove closer, they looked like some little type of horses with fur.  I was having a hard time adjusting my eyes because it was raining almost the whole time and the spray from the lorries were making it hard to see.  As I stared at these creatures I tried to make out what the heck I was seeing; but to no avail.  I had to wait until we got closer.  I was going to ask Jan, but was weary of sounding "stupid" if these were common creatures to the English countryside.  I began to get nervous as I still could not figure out what these animals were and they were going to be behind me soon.  Then, it hit me we passed them at 70 mph . . . BAAAAAAAAHHHHHH!!!  BLACK SHEEP!!!!  As far as my feable mind can recall, I have never seen a black sheep before in my life.  And there were so many of them.  I know; sounds ridiculous, but these were the cutest sheep I have ever seen!!!

    As I turned to Jan with 'sheer' excitement, I told her that these were my first "black sheep" sighting!!!  She busted out laughing amazed that I have never seen real live 'black' sheep!!!  I started laughing as well, but only because I was so excited to see black sheep.  You see folks, it really doesn't take much to make me happy any longer.  I revel in the delight of all things new!!!  Sure, everyone reading this post who has seen black sheep before may be thinking "How lame!"  But not me, I am like a kid in a candy store when seeing such beautiful creatures for the first time.  Okay, so they may stink and have really bad attitudes, but from the window of the car, they were beautiful!!!  Jan, who is from Scotland, told me that black sheep have very soft wool and clothing made from black wool can be very expensive.  I can see why.
[And, just on a side note about these black creatures, some of you already know just how much I love my black animals -- especially my kitties!!!  I miss them so much!!!]

     Now for the second FIRST.  Jan, God love her, is my personal tour guide for England.  Since she has been driving me to various parts of Ssuthern England on educational reviews, she has been pointing out many places to me and talking about the history and current happenings at these places.  Everything from the crops grown in the area to the history of a church or the people to the current state of the economy in the region.  Jan is a wealth of knowledge and I pick her brain all the time.  Anyways, as Jan and I talked the rest of the way down to Herne Bay, the "three-hour tour" seemed to fly by me.  Just as Jan mentionad to me that we were almost to Herne Bay, she quickly pointed out the front window and exclaimed; "Look, a windmill!!!"  My first REAL old-fashioned windmill!!!  Once again -- How awesome is that!!!  Sure, I've seen the new, white-towered windmills that dot the countrysides of the US, England, and other countries.  But this, my friends, was an honset-to-goodness, Don Quixote windmill!!!  The blades were not turning, but it looked so magnificent sitting on top of this knoll/hill.  My thoughts immediately shifted to medieval times of knights, chivalry and romance.  Nice storybook thinking, I know, but that's where my mind wandered.  I'm just being honest with you folks -- embarrassing or not -- it's the truth. As Jan, once again, talked about windmills in this area, I knew that when I returned to this part of England in three weeks, I would visit the windmill to see more of its history. 

     It is just so refreshing to see new things with an open mind.  Each day God gives us on this earth is a new beginning for amazing wonders and beautiful sights for everyone to capture with their heart and soul.  Tomorrow, when you walk into the same office or workplace and mumble under your breath how everything is:  "ho-hum" or "business as usual," remember that this is a brand new day and nothing is ever the same.  These days, I am seeing the world through God-centered eyes; and that makes all things wonderful and beautiful and blessed -- even if it is removing an infant from his/her mother to protect him/her from harm.  I know that God feels sad when people hurt or are hurt, but He also brings to all of us the HOPE of a better and brighter future.  Even if that future is years away, His promise of eternal life, love and salvation for us should be enough for everyone to smile and wonder at all things!!!  Even black sheep and windmills.

     Once again, I ask each one of you to think about what wonderful and beautiful things have captured your heart and soul today.  If you cannot think of anything, then I pose a challenge to you.  Tomorrow, as you go through your day -- rain or shine; snow or sleet; warm or cold -- look at something familiar with a new pair of God-centered eyes and notice how you feel.  Are you excited?  Amazed?  Awe-struck?  If you are not, then look again.  If you are all those, then praise God for being an intimate part of your day!!!  This is Holy Week folks; a time when God and Jesus should be the center of your thoughts and prayerss.  Use this time to capture an amazing view of the world around you.  Notice the black sheep and windmills in your life -- and laugh.

IT IS AMAZINGLY BEAUTIFUL!!!

Reflection Sunday: Week 5

PALM SUNDAY: This is my absolute favorite time of the year -- HOLY WEEK!!!  This week of the Christian calendar is what being "Christian" is all about:  Jesus entering Jerusalem, breaking bread with His disciples, suffering at the hands of the Jews, dying on the Cross, then rising in three days to conquer sin and death.  This entire week shows Jesus' unconditional love of everyone.  Such beauty can never be surpassed or reproduced.  Hallelujah!!!

Last week, I was confronted with the one of the worst parts of my job in the child protection field.  As you know, I will be removing a newborn from his/her teen mother once he/she is delivered.  This has not occurred yet, but it will very soon.  When I reitereated this plan to the young teen mom, she began to plead with me to stop this from happening.  All I could do was tell her was that this decision was already made, and although I could let others know of her pleas; I could not be the one to change this decision.  I can empathise with how horrible it must feel to see your son or daughter taken away from you with the possibility of never knowing him or her.

Then, I also experienced the enthusiastic and excited anticipation of the possibility that a wonderful program like YoungLives, a Christian program for young teen moms, may find its beginnings in the UK in the city of Reading.  Once again, I tell you that I am in awe that something which I am trying to make into a reality has the possibility of actually happenning!!!  Sacrey, yet exciting!!!  God knows that Reading, and other parts of the UK, could sure use this program here.  I just pray that the Reading Borough Council and/or other persons who can make YoungLives a reality here realize the benefits a program like this can bring to the teenagers of Reading and Berkshire county.

In both of the situations mentioned above, I know that I am simply God's messanger through my words and actions.  My feelings and emotions hit total opposites: from the saddest and most heart-wrentching situation to the most hopeful and joyous possibility for helping teenage moms in the Reading area.  How can this be?  Well, I believe that this is all part of God's plan for me.  I have come through many struggles and trials throughout my life, and I feel that God is showing me why He brought me to this place at this time.  He is showing me that I came through those darker times in my life to shine brightly when tough times arise again.  God provides strength to us through our struggles and sufferings.  We are filled with the strength of the Holy Spirit when we turn to God and ask for His help.  This is the message I hope to relay to those whom I help and minister.  If God's grace and mercy are not shown through my actions or words, then I have strayed from the pathway which God has guided me to walk.  I use these "Reflection Sundays" as a compass to see whether or not I have strayed from the pathway which God directed me to follow when answering "YES" to His call.

Folks, I ask that during this upcoming Holy Week you reflect on whether you are following the pathway where God has directed YOU!!!  If you can answer, "yes, this is where God is guiding me," then pray to God that He continue to keep your eyes focused forward.  If you answer, "no, this is not right," then pray for God to reposition you to where He needs you to go.  If you answer "I really don't know," then pray to God to open you heart so you can hear Him give you directions on where to go next.  God is always talking to us,.  We just need to make sure we take time to stop and listen to His voice.  My guess is that the message you receive from Him will be the most beautiful words you have ever heard in your life -- because they will be from the voice of Our Loving Father -- GOD!!!

I LOVE HOLY WEEK!!!!  This is who I am!!!

Qnswer to Trivia Question: An Ape!!!

      Once again, I would like to thank everyone who tried "unsuccessfully" to guess this past week's trivia question.  The ghost which inhabits a castle in Dorchester is an ape. The history surronding the ghost of Athelhampton is of an Ape, which belonged to the Martyn family in the sixteenth century. The ape is also the emblem on their coat of arms on the stained glass of the Great Hall. The ape is rumoured to to roam the house looking for its new owner, finding four daughters. The haunting heard is said to be the Ape attempting to escape from the stairways and cellar it became trapped in.



Most of Athelhampton house has been in place for over five hundred years, the history of which, and its related families dates back over a thousand years. Numerous owners have carried out works on the building to make it what it is today. The site was inhabited from 1086 and built on in 1485 was the Great hall, Solar and Buttery.  In 1485 a 160 acre deer park was established with the Gatehouse and West Wing being built in 1550. The building to the back of house was split into four seperate house holds.

In 1862 the Church of St. John is built and the Gatehouse demolished. Restoration to the gardens and creation of formal gardens took place in 1891. Also in 1920-1 the north wing at the back of the house was built.

Thank you for trying to guess this piece of trivia.  Now, try your luck with next week's question.  I hope you have fun!!!

The Sad Part of My Job :-(

     This past Thursday, I was thrown into the hardest part of my job (the part of child protection that most social workers HATE)!!!  I met my newest client -- a young teen mom who is about to deliver her first child.  She will probably deliver her child this coming weekend; however, she will not get a chance to be with her child for very long.  You see, due to her risky and destructive behaviors, the local authority (me) will be taking her newborn into protective custody and placed with a foster family.  This young mom has been given chance after chance after chance to show some type of change in her behaviors so the local authority (me) can give her an opportunity to keep her child.  However, she kept on running away from her placements and getting involved with others twice here age -- smoking, drinking and other risky behaviors.  Now that her child is due, she realizes what she has done, but it is too late according to the local authority.  We will request an order from the courts to take custody of the child when it is born and take him/her away from this young girl. 

     This just absolutely breaks my heart because this young girl is simply a product of her past.  You see, this young teen had been taken advantage of sexually by serveral other persons, including family members. After learning to run away from all her struggles, she became very street savey and learned to survive on her own.  Now, in her mid-teens, she will loose her child to the local authority becasue she never had a chance to feel loved, nurtured or cared for by her mother or father.  They were the ones who let these actions take place when she was younger.  It is truely a "lose - lose" situation, and my heart breaks for her.  As she cries and cries about giving her another chance, all I can do is to try to comfort her as best I can.  My hands are tied on this one since I inherited this case so late in it's process.  I am truely "the enemy" to her and I do not blame her nor judge her for any ill-will against me or the local authority.

     I have been praying for her and her child since the day I knew I was taking over this case.  A real SHITTY case due to the circumstances!!!  As I ask God for guidance on this case, I understand that it is in the best interest of the child at this point to find him/her a safe and nurturing home.  In the mean time, I will try to work with this young teen to try to get her to accept therapy for this trauma and the traumas of her past.  In the only light spot in this case, I am able to provide weekly visitations to her and her child after he/she is born.  This young teen has even threatened to take her life if her baby is taken from her.  Once again, I can understand how she may feel and do not judge her for these threats.  She will be in a secured residential unit so they can watch her and help her through everything.  I really HATE this part of my job; however, it is a necessary evil if I am to protect the life of her new baby.  Her actions are to protect herself and keep herself safe, so it is HER needs which she puts forth.  With a new child, she must put the needs of her child first andshow good judgement in her actions when she becomes angry or distressed.  So far, no good.

     This is where I get to be labelled "baby-snatcher" and it fits.  But deep within my heart, I know that I am doing what is in this best interst for this innocent baby which will be coming into this world soon.  I HATE the position in which I find myself, but this is the part of my job where I draw upon the support and comfort of my friends and family.  And since I am constantly in prayer to My Father, I know that He will forgive me for anything which I may do wrong according to His plan.  I do not have all the answers, nor do I have the insight into what the future may bring to this young teen and her baby if I keep them together.  But for now, my heart tells me that I must take this child into protective custody.  I can only pray that I may be able to help this young teen have her child returned to her in the future.  God willing!!! 

May God have mercy on my soul.

YoungLives Update

     On Tuesday evening, I had the most wonderful telephone conversation with the YoungLives Director, Jen Bynard, and she was very encouraged about beginning the first International YoungLives program here in Reading. She has spoken to her contact here in the UK, Tate, and he only lives about 1 hour from Reading. Tate confirmed my information to Jen about Reading having the highest teen pregnancies in the UK, and then in the whole of Europe. She also verified this on the Internet.  Anyway, Tate has a young couple who is willing to take on the task of running a YoungLives program and she lives less than 1/2 hour from Reading. Amazing how these people live so close to Reading!!! Tate will be in touch with me soon and then we will discuss how we can get YoungLives funded here. Maybe even get a grant from the government since teen pregnancy is high on their list of troubled areas to have immediate attention.  Who knows what God has in store for this possibility?
     So far things are going so smoothly and I'm just wondering when the axe will fall on all of this. It's a bit scary that things are unravelling like this. I'm afraid to blink so as not to miss something; however, Jen said that she will walk us through everything, and maybe come here to help a bit when things begin to take shape. Wow, can you believe that I may be involved in the beginning of something so needed and so wonderful here in the UK? I can't. Like I told you before, I am just God's messenger and servant. It is only through Him that YoungLives will take hold over here. Please, please, please keep me and the possibility of a YoungLives Program here in the UK in your prayers.  God knows I will need them!!!!