It's been an interesting week learning about some new animal facts. I thought perhaps you'd enjoy some new trivia facts as well!
Bullfrogs bite. This is an interesting one to me, thank you Georgia Aquarium. They don't actually have teeth, but do have bony projections on their upper jaw that can draw blood. Bullfrogs have to hang onto their prey so it doesn't hop/fly/run away. So once they bite, they don't let go. You have to actually use a tool to pry their mouths open.
Remember Career Kid's bullfrog a couple of years ago? We all played with that guy, with not a care in the world. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine he could bite. Guess we were just lucky. I'll still hold them, but with respect for what they can do. As my boss at the zoo would say, 'everything with a mouth can bite!'
Cold water anemones cannot sting. Warm water ones can. Cold water anemones live off the coast of Alaska, Canada, etc. You can touch their tentacles, but our skin is too thick for them to penetrate. They can stick to you, but not sting. However, in the Carribean, they can sting you. I'm not too sure the reasoning, but as I'm more likely to be scuba diving around the Bahamas, I'll keep my hands to myself!
Sting rays are venomous. Yes, I know they have a stinger at the base of their tales. (Remember Steve Irwin, the Crocodile Hunter?) I thought that was as far as it went. No, they have venom as well. It usually doesn't cause problems in humans, but still.... At the aquarium, they have a touch tank where you can touch small sting rays. One was in a bad mood, and positioned himself in the middle of the tank, with his tail in the air. I sure wouldn't want to step on him at the beach.
Dolphins, beluga whales, and harbor seals can swim upside down. We were watching a dolphin show, and in the dim theater, I noticed one of them didn't look right to me. Then I noticed he was swimming on his back. I didn't realize they could do that, physics and everything. Not only do they swim upside down, they can do it really fast. Later, the belugas and harbor seals showed me they have that talent as well. Very interesting.
Goliath frogs can jump 10 feet. In one display, they had a Goliath frog skeleton. These are the largest frogs in the world, and come from Africa. They can be 3 feet long, and weigh 7 lbs. I don't know what I'd do if one of those showed up in my pool!
I hope you've enjoyed your lesson on random animal facts. Have a great day, class dismissed!
Chela
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
Monday, March 18, 2013
friend request
We are constantly bombarded with requests on Facebook or other social media asking us to "friend" someone. It can be people we don't even know, co-workers, friends of friends, people we've met once...the list is endless!
Now think to yourself how you would respond if you received this request in your inbox:
I would love to be your friend. I will walk with you through all of your life. You can contact me anytime of the day or night; I am always standing by to listen to you. You can talk to me silently, or out loud. I hear you loud and clear in both forms. Mostly, I just wish to hear what is on your heart.
I will give you advice in life issues, and guide you through difficult times. In good times, I'll celebrate with you. When you cry, I'll hold you in my arms, and comfort you. When you feel alone, I'll be the flame in the darkness. When you are afraid, I'll send my angels to protect you. When you can't decide what to do, and you're panicking, I'll send you the peace that defies all understanding.
I can forgive your sins, and free you from your chains. The big things-adultery, abortion, murder-I can forgive all of these, and rid your life of guilt and shame. Small things that won't leave your heart, I'll forgive these too. My wish is to give you a new heart-one of peace and love that isn't burdened by the stresses and evils of this world.
When the time comes for you to leave this life, I will be with you then, as well. I'll sit by your side, and comfort you, and invite you home. I will give you eternity in paradise with me. See, I've already given my Son for you, to give you all of these things. All you have to do is believe in Me.
Accept Decline
John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.
Amen
Chela
Now think to yourself how you would respond if you received this request in your inbox:
I would love to be your friend. I will walk with you through all of your life. You can contact me anytime of the day or night; I am always standing by to listen to you. You can talk to me silently, or out loud. I hear you loud and clear in both forms. Mostly, I just wish to hear what is on your heart.
I will give you advice in life issues, and guide you through difficult times. In good times, I'll celebrate with you. When you cry, I'll hold you in my arms, and comfort you. When you feel alone, I'll be the flame in the darkness. When you are afraid, I'll send my angels to protect you. When you can't decide what to do, and you're panicking, I'll send you the peace that defies all understanding.
I can forgive your sins, and free you from your chains. The big things-adultery, abortion, murder-I can forgive all of these, and rid your life of guilt and shame. Small things that won't leave your heart, I'll forgive these too. My wish is to give you a new heart-one of peace and love that isn't burdened by the stresses and evils of this world.
When the time comes for you to leave this life, I will be with you then, as well. I'll sit by your side, and comfort you, and invite you home. I will give you eternity in paradise with me. See, I've already given my Son for you, to give you all of these things. All you have to do is believe in Me.
Accept Decline
John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.
Amen
Chela
Friday, March 1, 2013
correction
Okay, it has been brought to my attention that my oldest, Jasey Rae's daddy, is no longer a college kid. He graduated from a University with a bachelor's degree in June of 2011. I apologize for my oversight, and intend to correct the situation immediately. So, college kid shall hereafter be referred to as "Career Kid." However, during my last visit, I was informed that he is no longer a kid, he is a dad now. I suppose he is right in that regard, but he will always be my kid...my child.....my son.
God Bless,
Chela
God Bless,
Chela
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
unexpected blessings
“Hi Mom, guess what? You’re a Grandma! LC just had a baby girl!” What a wonderful phone call, and one I will remember the rest of my life. But hang on a minute-I wasn't expecting this phone call from college kid. Let me back up a minute. College kid had a great life with his new job, and his significant other, LC. Making good money, goofing around, coming home frequently to visit, and enjoying life.
Nowhere did a baby figure into these plans, until she was here. LC became very sick one day, and college kid rushed her to the hospital, where they were introduced to their new daughter, Jasey Rae Lynn. What a tremendous surprise for everyone, including the parents! How could they not know? No idea really, except their minds were elsewhere, and they just didn't think baby.
We went up a few days later, and it was so stressful trying to drive in big city traffic, then of course I got lost. I panicked, and cried, and totally stressed myself out. But when college kid opened the door to his apt with Jasey Rae on his shoulder, all of three days old, and tinier than seemed possible, it didn't matter anymore.
I held her, and surely felt Heaven in my arms. Her little weight against my body, her impossibly small features, her precious baby smell, it was just pure happiness. Certainly God sent a bit of Heaven down to us that day. I introduced myself to her, and let her know she could expect to be thoroughly spoiled by all of us.
I also watched the interaction between college kid and Jasey. I saw a new side of my son; a protective, head over heels in love side that I've never seen before. It was beautiful watching him hold his daughter, and talk so lovingly to her. He cradled her in the nape of his neck, lovingly fed her a bottle, and it was something heartwarming to see.
I just couldn't get enough of Jasey. I wanted to look at her constantly-take in all her expressions, her little nose and ears, her little mouth, it was just precious. Even changing diapers didn't bother me.(Good thing, that suddenly became my job!) She was (is) so perfect in every way. A full head of strawberry light brown hair on her soft head, adorable little blue eyes.
LC was over the moon happy. I have a picture of her holding Jasey with the biggest smile on her face. So proud and happy with her unexpected blessing from Heaven. She went straight into Mommy mode, and was (is) thoroughly in love with her little one. I can see her dressing Jasey in different outfits, and trying different styles with her hair. I’m so excited for Jasey. She may have had an unexpected start in life, but she has parents that dearly love her, grandparents that are happy beyond belief, and more than ready to spoil her. Also the aunts and uncles, who having gotten over their shock, love her just as much. Welcome to the world, Jasey, we love you so much.
Children are a heritage of the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. Psalm 127:3
Nowhere did a baby figure into these plans, until she was here. LC became very sick one day, and college kid rushed her to the hospital, where they were introduced to their new daughter, Jasey Rae Lynn. What a tremendous surprise for everyone, including the parents! How could they not know? No idea really, except their minds were elsewhere, and they just didn't think baby.
We went up a few days later, and it was so stressful trying to drive in big city traffic, then of course I got lost. I panicked, and cried, and totally stressed myself out. But when college kid opened the door to his apt with Jasey Rae on his shoulder, all of three days old, and tinier than seemed possible, it didn't matter anymore.
I held her, and surely felt Heaven in my arms. Her little weight against my body, her impossibly small features, her precious baby smell, it was just pure happiness. Certainly God sent a bit of Heaven down to us that day. I introduced myself to her, and let her know she could expect to be thoroughly spoiled by all of us.
I also watched the interaction between college kid and Jasey. I saw a new side of my son; a protective, head over heels in love side that I've never seen before. It was beautiful watching him hold his daughter, and talk so lovingly to her. He cradled her in the nape of his neck, lovingly fed her a bottle, and it was something heartwarming to see.
I just couldn't get enough of Jasey. I wanted to look at her constantly-take in all her expressions, her little nose and ears, her little mouth, it was just precious. Even changing diapers didn't bother me.(Good thing, that suddenly became my job!) She was (is) so perfect in every way. A full head of strawberry light brown hair on her soft head, adorable little blue eyes.
LC was over the moon happy. I have a picture of her holding Jasey with the biggest smile on her face. So proud and happy with her unexpected blessing from Heaven. She went straight into Mommy mode, and was (is) thoroughly in love with her little one. I can see her dressing Jasey in different outfits, and trying different styles with her hair. I’m so excited for Jasey. She may have had an unexpected start in life, but she has parents that dearly love her, grandparents that are happy beyond belief, and more than ready to spoil her. Also the aunts and uncles, who having gotten over their shock, love her just as much. Welcome to the world, Jasey, we love you so much.
Children are a heritage of the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. Psalm 127:3
Saturday, January 26, 2013
Deer
I apologize in advance for this one, but I need to fuss. I'm so tired of deer running in front of me when I'm driving. At first, I'd enjoy seeing deer as I was traveling down the highway. They are so pretty and elegant. Then they started running in front of me. It's not fun to see them anymore.
After a few very close calls, the inevitable happened, and I nailed my first deer- a spike. I cried like a baby as he died on the highway. I was lucky to be in my truck at the time, and there was no damage to it. The truck instantly gained the nickname "Little Sherman" after college kid's video game involving a tank.
Six months roll by, and again, I'm driving Sherman, and hit a bigger deer. This time I take out Spike's dad. I don't cry this time, but I'm still quite upset. There is some damage to the truck, but it's mostly cosmetic.
Two months later, tonight, we are coming home, and barely out of town, and bam, another buck. I saw him, hit the brakes, and had the 'I'm going to hit him' realization. Then by the grace of God, I missed him. (Thank You Jesus!)
I am so tired of this! We were in the van tonight, and it would have been totaled. We were 45 minutes from home, and someone would have had to come get the three of us,and all our groceries and our stuff. Then we'd be down to one vehicle. Not to mention the stress involved in having an accident.
I just wish they would learn to look both ways, but I guess that isn't going to happen. It's so frustrating knowing there is really nothing I can do to prevent it. Whenever I hear of a hunter bagging a deer, I am always happy. One less deer to run in front of my car.
Too bad I didn't have one of the zoo's jr volunteers with me tonight. When I mentioned to her my problem of hitting deer, she replied, "Oh my gosh, how do you hit a deer?" It's quite easy, actually. Hop in, buckle up, and I'll show you!
God Bless,
Chela
After a few very close calls, the inevitable happened, and I nailed my first deer- a spike. I cried like a baby as he died on the highway. I was lucky to be in my truck at the time, and there was no damage to it. The truck instantly gained the nickname "Little Sherman" after college kid's video game involving a tank.
Six months roll by, and again, I'm driving Sherman, and hit a bigger deer. This time I take out Spike's dad. I don't cry this time, but I'm still quite upset. There is some damage to the truck, but it's mostly cosmetic.
Two months later, tonight, we are coming home, and barely out of town, and bam, another buck. I saw him, hit the brakes, and had the 'I'm going to hit him' realization. Then by the grace of God, I missed him. (Thank You Jesus!)
I am so tired of this! We were in the van tonight, and it would have been totaled. We were 45 minutes from home, and someone would have had to come get the three of us,and all our groceries and our stuff. Then we'd be down to one vehicle. Not to mention the stress involved in having an accident.
I just wish they would learn to look both ways, but I guess that isn't going to happen. It's so frustrating knowing there is really nothing I can do to prevent it. Whenever I hear of a hunter bagging a deer, I am always happy. One less deer to run in front of my car.
Too bad I didn't have one of the zoo's jr volunteers with me tonight. When I mentioned to her my problem of hitting deer, she replied, "Oh my gosh, how do you hit a deer?" It's quite easy, actually. Hop in, buckle up, and I'll show you!
God Bless,
Chela
Thursday, January 17, 2013
Good Friends
Earlier today, I was upset about something, and feeling quite sorry for myself. I tried to put this issue out of my mind, but it was really taking over and putting a huge damper on an otherwise wonderful day.
Then out of the blue, a friend called to wish me a happy anniversary! What a bright spark in my blue feelings, to be remembered so thoughtfully. My friend reminded me of the cruise dh and I had taken 3 years ago to celebrate our 20th year of marriage. Oh what a wonderful, perfect, blessed trip that had been.
After talking about anniversary stuff for a while, she moved onto some interesting news from her own life that was wonderful to hear. We talked and laughed, and had a very nice conversation.
After we hung up, I realized my mood was greatly lifted. I had so many more things to think about than what had originally upset me. The rest of the day, I felt sheer happiness in my heart. To my friend, it may have been just a quick phone call, in the midst of a hundred other things to be done. But to me, it was one of the best moments I had all day.
You know who you are, and thank you from the bottom of my heart. :0)
God Bless,
Chela
Then out of the blue, a friend called to wish me a happy anniversary! What a bright spark in my blue feelings, to be remembered so thoughtfully. My friend reminded me of the cruise dh and I had taken 3 years ago to celebrate our 20th year of marriage. Oh what a wonderful, perfect, blessed trip that had been.
After talking about anniversary stuff for a while, she moved onto some interesting news from her own life that was wonderful to hear. We talked and laughed, and had a very nice conversation.
After we hung up, I realized my mood was greatly lifted. I had so many more things to think about than what had originally upset me. The rest of the day, I felt sheer happiness in my heart. To my friend, it may have been just a quick phone call, in the midst of a hundred other things to be done. But to me, it was one of the best moments I had all day.
You know who you are, and thank you from the bottom of my heart. :0)
God Bless,
Chela
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Sweet Pea’s letter to the neighbors
Hi, my name is Sweet Pea, and I am the bird dog/terrier mix next door. Maybe you've seen me around. This is really embarrassing, but I have to admit I have a huge crush on your dog. He is so handsome! I tell my owners I really need to go outside just so I can look at him. My mom is getting really tired of this, but what can I do? He is such a dream.
Well I was kind of wondering if it would be okay to come over and meet him one day, actually muzzle to muzzle. Don’t worry, I’m not one of those girls, and besides, I had that spay surgery last spring. I would love to look into his eyes, and perhaps play spit head with the cute guy.
My mom says I act like a wild hyena around other dogs, but that is only till I get to meet them. Then I remember my manners. I have a brother at home, but he’s 12, and isn't interested in playing with me. Actually, he’s really grouchy. I’m only 3, so you see why I like to play.
You've never met me, and this is crazy, but here’s my number, call me maybe!
Sweet Pea
Hi, my name is Sweet Pea, and I am the bird dog/terrier mix next door. Maybe you've seen me around. This is really embarrassing, but I have to admit I have a huge crush on your dog. He is so handsome! I tell my owners I really need to go outside just so I can look at him. My mom is getting really tired of this, but what can I do? He is such a dream.
Well I was kind of wondering if it would be okay to come over and meet him one day, actually muzzle to muzzle. Don’t worry, I’m not one of those girls, and besides, I had that spay surgery last spring. I would love to look into his eyes, and perhaps play spit head with the cute guy.
My mom says I act like a wild hyena around other dogs, but that is only till I get to meet them. Then I remember my manners. I have a brother at home, but he’s 12, and isn't interested in playing with me. Actually, he’s really grouchy. I’m only 3, so you see why I like to play.
You've never met me, and this is crazy, but here’s my number, call me maybe!
Sweet Pea
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